Inspiration
Sipping your Way Through Mystic Country
Mystic Country has the distinct pleasure of being part of both Connecticut Wine Country and the Coastal Wine Trail and is home to some of the finest vineyards on the East Coast. Some might even call us the “Napa Valley of the East.” Whether you prefer red or white, rosé or frosé (frozen rosé that is!) the vineyards and wineries of Mystic Country will not disappoint.
Spring is a great time to head to the vineyards as the weather is perfect for picnicking and sipping out in the sun. Many vineyards also have covered or shaded areas, firepits and heaters if it gets a little chilly, and indoor tasting rooms. Some offer live music, special events, food trucks, and more, so be sure to check each website to plan your visit accordingly. Another great thing about the local vineyards is that most are both kid and dog-friendly.
Driving Around
If you would like to visit multiple vineyards in one day, that’s totally doable thanks to their close proximity. You can also arrange for a limo or bus to take you around so you can fully enjoy your day. Visiting the vineyards is a great idea for a bachelor or bachelorette party, a girl’s weekend, a birthday or a family reunion. If you’re looking for transportation, try Premier Limousine or Gateway Limousine.
The Stonington area is home to three fabulous vineyards and is a great option if you want to try a couple in one day. Jonathan Edwards Winery in North Stonington is dubbed “New England charm, Napa style” and for good reason. A unique bi-coastal vineyard, they produce wine on both coasts, making for some spectacular varieties. Their scenic grounds, which are also a popular wedding venue, include a patio area, picnic tables, and plenty of room to spread out with your own blanket or chairs.
Next, head over to the historic Saltwater Farm Vineyards, where you will encounter a tasting room housed in a restored World War II-era airplane hangar, complete with breathtaking views stretching out over more than 100 acres of land, including bordering tidal marshes. Try to plan your visit around their food truck and live music schedule to get the full experience.
Finally, cap off your day with some sunset views from the lawn at Stonington Vineyards. Here you will find an indoor tasting room with an art gallery and gift shop inside, and an outdoor patio overlooking rolling hills and a sprawling lawn with vineyard views. They frequently host live music acts on the patio, as well as food trucks, and BYO-picnics are welcome.
In Ledyard, Maugle Sierra Vineyards is worth a stop for their woodland setting, including a patio and Rendezvous sitting area complete with Adirondack chairs and views for miles. Try their signature St. Croix Wine for something unique, or their popular dessert wine, Espíritu de St. Croix, for something sweet.
Just north of Ledyard, you will find lovely countryside views at the bucolic Preston Ridge Vineyard. They offer a wide variety of wine, and both indoor and outdoor space for tastings. In May, they host weekly live music and food truck events, and they also hold a popular Saturday yoga series that comes with a complimentary glass of wine. Namaste indeed!
In Colchester, you don’t want to miss a visit to the award-winning Priam Vineyards, a completely solar powered winery and sustainable vineyard tucked away in the Salmon River Watershed. This popular winery has won several awards over the years for their handcrafted wines and currently offers 15 different wines to sample and purchase. They also host several events per month including food trucks, comedy nights and a summer music series.
And last but not least, make sure to venture up to the quiet corner to visit Taylor Brooke Winery in Woodstock and Sharpe Hill Vineyards in Pomfret. Taylor Brooke is known for summer favorite wines such as their St. Croix Rosé, Sparking Rosé and their most popular wine, Summer Peach. They have also been known to serve wine slushies (AKA frosé) during the summer months and host various food. Their pergola-covered patio is the perfect place to spend a summer afternoon! Sharpe Hill Vineyards is unique in that they offer fine dining at their Zagat-rated onsite restaurant. Because of this they do not allow outside food and are also a 21+ establishment. With their lush gardens and rustic red-barn exterior, a visit here is a truly charming must-do New England experience.
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