Paradise Hills Vineyard offers a slice of Tuscan charm right in Wallingford, Connecticut. Nestled among 65 acres of picturesque rolling hills, this family-owned winery welcomes visitors year-round to enjoy their carefully crafted wines. You’ll find a warm, inviting atmosphere at Paradise Hills where you can sample flights of their finest wines while taking in the beautiful countryside views.
The Ruggiero family began their winemaking journey in 1997, turning hayfields into flourishing vineyards along Wind Swept Hill Road. Their dream has grown into a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. When you visit Paradise Hills, you’re not just tasting wine – you’re experiencing a family’s passion and dedication to creating something special in Connecticut’s wine country.
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Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery
Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery offers a delightful Tuscan-inspired experience in Wallingford, Connecticut. This family-owned wine estate welcomes you with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings that transport you to the Italian countryside without leaving Connecticut.
The tasting room provides a comfortable setting to sample their handcrafted wines. You can enjoy wine flights that showcase the variety of their offerings, and the outdoor tables are perfect for picnics while taking in the scenic views of the vineyard.
Beyond wine tastings, Paradise Hills hosts special events throughout the year. Their “Read Between the Wines” book club brings together wine and literature lovers monthly, while workshops like “Sip & Roll” combine wine tasting with fun activities like sushi making. These unique experiences make your visit more memorable.
Rating: 4.5 (368 reviews)
Location: 15 Windswept Hill Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492
Contact: (203) 284-0123
Website: Visit Website
The History of Paradise Hills Vineyard
Paradise Hills Vineyard has a rich history rooted in family tradition and passion for winemaking. The story begins with the Ruggiero family’s dream and has evolved into one of Connecticut’s beloved wineries.
Founding and Early Days
The Paradise Hills story began in 1997 when the Ruggiero family purchased sixty-five acres of rolling hills and hay fields on Wind Swept Hill Road in Wallingford, Connecticut. Albert and Richard Ruggiero planted their first vineyard that same year, marking the start of their lifelong dream.
The family’s journey actually started earlier, with 30 years of grape growing and winemaking experience before opening the winery. In 1996, they chose Wallingford specifically because it was a well-known agricultural community that welcomed their vision of creating a Connecticut vineyard.
The town was eager to have a winery in their community, making it the perfect location for the Ruggieros to put down roots and begin their venture.
Growth and Development Over the Years
After years of careful cultivation and planning, Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery officially opened its doors to the public on May 1, 2011. This marked a significant milestone, as it became the newest winery in Connecticut at that time.
The vineyard has flourished over the years, producing extraordinary full-bodied wines from handpicked, estate-grown grapes. You’ll find it nestled among its original 65 acres along the historic George Washington Trail.
Today, Paradise Hills operates as a family-owned and operated boutique winery in the heart of Wallingford. They’ve expanded their offerings beyond just wine tastings to include events like live music performances, food stands, and even a book club.
The winery has become a destination on the Connecticut Wine Trail, inviting visitors to experience their carefully crafted wines while enjoying the beautiful landscape that first captivated the Ruggiero family decades ago.
Exploring the Vineyard Experience
Paradise Hills Vineyard offers visitors a true Tuscan-inspired escape in the heart of Connecticut. The 65-acre estate provides the perfect setting to enjoy fine wines while taking in the beauty of Wallingford’s rolling hills.
Tours and Tastings
When you visit Paradise Hills, you can enjoy the full vineyard experience in their elegant Tuscan-style tasting room. The hand-crafted copper bar, decorative chandeliers, and mahogany tables create a warm, romantic atmosphere.
While wine tastings were temporarily paused during COVID-19, the vineyard typically offers opportunities to sample their handcrafted wines. Check their current offering before your visit, as they have adapted with curbside pickup options during challenging times.
The vineyard is open year-round, making it a perfect destination in any season. As you sip your wine, you can gaze out at the beautiful countryside views that surround the property.
Wine Selection and Specialties
Paradise Hills produces extraordinary full-bodied wines from handpicked estate-grown grapes. The Ruggiero family has been cultivating their vineyards since 1997, bringing their dream of winemaking to life.
The boutique winery’s location in Wallingford’s agricultural community contributes to the unique character of their wines. Each bottle represents the family’s dedication to quality winemaking traditions.
When you visit, you can purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs of your vineyard experience. Their wines make perfect gifts or special additions to your own collection.
The vineyard’s setting along the George Washington Trail adds historical significance to your wine-tasting adventure, connecting you to both Connecticut’s past and its thriving present-day wine culture.
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