When it comes to wine-themed getaways in the U.S., the Northern California wine countries of Napa Valley and Sonoma County typically hog the glory — but you might be surprised to discover there’s a hidden wine country waiting for you in New England this summer. Grab your corkscrews and check out these six wineries in New England.
Cellardoor Winery, Lincolnville, Maine
There’s really only one word to describe Maine’s Cellardoor Winery: charming. Perhaps its the 68 acres of farmland set against the silhouette of Levenseller Mountain; maybe its the artisanal cheese makers, chocolates and foods that grace the winery’s pairing menu each Sunday; or maybe there’s some magic left in the 200-year-old barn, restored to its current incarnation as a winery where you can taste Cellardoor’s reds and whites for free. Whatever the reason, don’t miss a chance to experience Cellardoor Winery for yourself between April and December.
Nashoba Valley Winery, Bolton, Massachusetts
If you’re headed to Boston this summer, take an afternoon to escape the bustle of the city and relax into the beautiful oasis of Nashoba Valley Winery. Less than an hour from the city, Nashoba Valley Winery impresses with its rolling vineyards, quaint orchards and gardens. The onsite restaurant, J’s, is a charmingly rustic setting for lunch overlooking the farmland. Come autumn, you can even pick your own apples and peaches, the perfect activity to cap off a weekend of leaf-peeping throughout New England.
Newport Vineyards, Middletown, Rhode Island
If your summer plans include the historic, mansion-laden town of Newport, don’t miss a chance to explore Newport Vineyards while you’re there. A New England favorite, the family-run Newport Vineyards produces classic varietals like chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Overlooking the scenic Rhode Island Sound, Newport Vineyards offers daily tours of its 60-acre vineyard. And don’t worry about finding a designated driver, as a shuttle service is available from downtown Newport.
Sakonnet Vineyards, Little Compton, Rhode Island
This Rhode Island gem has been one of New England’s wine country leaders for more than 30 years, focusing its varietals around chardonnay, gewurtztraminer, pinot noir and vidal grapes. Fifty scenic acres await you at this tranquil winery, where soil conditions so closely resemble those of maritime France that Sakonnet Vineyards has been able to produce some of New England’s most beloved local wines year after year. Tours are held daily, and after a tasting, you can relax away from it all with lunch at the onsite cafe.
Fitch Claremont Vineyard BnB, Bozrah, Connecticut
With a bed and breakfast attached to this Connecticut winery, Fitch Claremont is the perfect destination for a serene wine-themed weekend in New England. Outside your room, you’ll find more than 30 acres of vineyards and farmland, and you’ll be hard pressed to resist a romantic stroll through the vineyard and into the winery. Plus, your stay includes a complimentary bottle of wine, so you can sample the winery’s flavors from the comfort of your room.
Jewell Towne Vineyards, South Hampton, New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s oldest winery is known for its reds, whites and rose varietals, and it all started with six simple grapevines back in the early 1980s. Today, this boutique winery has produced a number of award-winning wines from its 13 acres, and it’s also one of the rare wineries where you can sample ice wine. The husband-and-wife team behind Jewell Towne Vineyards offers free tours of the farmhouse-turned-winery, capped with a sampling of five wines.
Have you visited any wineries in New England? Tell us about your favorite.
(Featured image: Jim G)
