Connecticut may not be as well-known for wine production as some of its neighboring states, but it's home to a growing number of wineries that are producing some exceptional wines. In this article, we'll take a look at some of our favorite wineries in the state.
Hopkins Vineyard
Located in the town of Warren, Hopkins Vineyard has a rich history dating back to the Mayflower voyage. The winery is situated on a picturesque hillside overlooking Lake Waramaug, and its vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.
One of Hopkins Vineyard's standout wines is its Estate Grown Chardonnay, which is aged in French oak barrels and exhibits notes of vanilla, apple, and pear. The winery also produces a range of red wines, including a Cabernet Franc and a Merlot, as well as a number of white and rosé wines. Hopkins Vineyard is open year-round for tastings and tours, and it's a popular spot for weddings and other special events.
Hopkins Vineyard has a true dedication to sustainability. The winery uses natural methods for pest control and minimizes its water usage through a drip irrigation system. Hopkins Vineyard also uses solar power to offset its energy needs, making it one of the most environmentally-friendly wineries in Connecticut.
Sharpe Hill Vineyard
Located in Pomfret, Sharpe Hill Vineyard is a family-owned winery that produces a range of award-winning wines. The winery's vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling.
The Ballet of Angles, a white blend that's crisp and refreshing with notes of apple and citrus, is one of Sharpe Hill Vineyard's most popular wines. The winery also produces a range of red wines, including a Cabernet Franc and a Merlot, as well as a number of fruit wines, such as its popular Pear Wine. Sharpe Hill Vineyard is open year-round for tastings and tours, and it features a charming tasting room that's housed in a converted barn.
Sharpe Hill Vineyard is a standout in its dedication to using only locally-sourced ingredients. The winery's fruit wines are made from locally-sourced fruit, such as peaches and pears, and its food menu features dishes made with ingredients from nearby farms.
Jones Winery
Located in the town of Shelton, Jones Winery is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines for over 30 years. The winery's vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Cabernet Franc.
One of Jones Winery's standout wines is its Cabernet Franc, which is aged in French oak barrels and exhibits notes of black cherry and vanilla. The winery also produces a range of white wines, including a Chardonnay and a Pinot Grigio, as well as a number of fruit wines, such as its popular Raspberry Wine.
Jones Winery is open year-round for tastings and tours, and it features a cozy tasting room that's housed in a restored 18th-century barn. In fact, Jones Winery has become known for its commitment to preserving its historic buildings. The winery itself is located on a property that has been in the Jones family for over 150 years.
Chamard Vineyards
Located in Clinton, Chamard Vineyards is a family-owned winery that produces a range of award-winning wines. The winery's vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc.
Chamard Vineyards features its Chardonnay Reserve, which is aged in French oak barrels and exhibits notes of buttery oak and vanilla. The winery also produces a range of red wines, including a Cabernet Franc and a Merlot, as well as a number of white and rosé wines.
Chamard Vineyards is open year-round for tastings and tours, and it also features a spacious tasting room in a restored 18th-century barn. Chamard Vineyards is unique in its dedication to the arts. The winery features a rotating art exhibit in its tasting room, and it hosts a variety of events, such as live music performances and art shows.
Sunset Meadow Vineyards
Located in Goshen, Sunset Meadow Vineyards is also family-owned and offers a fair share of award-winning wines. The winery's vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Riesling.
Sunset Meadow’s most well-known selection is its Estate Reserve Chardonnay, which is aged in oak barrels and exhibits notes of vanilla and toasted oak. The winery also produces a range of red wines including a Cabernet Franc, which has notes of black currant and tobacco.
Sunset Meadow Vineyards is open year-round for tastings and tours, and it features a cozy tasting room that's housed in a converted barn. The winery also offers a variety of classes and workshops, such as wine and cheese pairings and blending classes, to help visitors learn more about wine and winemaking.
Whether you're a fan of white, red, or fruit wines, these five wineries are sure to have something that will please your palate. The wineries we've highlighted here are just the beginning of the many great wineries that Connecticut has to offer, so make sure to plan a visit and explore the state's burgeoning wine scene.
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