Nestled between the charming Stonington Borough and Mystic, Connecticut, Stonington Vineyards offers a delightful escape for wine lovers. This beautiful vineyard, established in 1987, sits on 58 acres in the Stonington Uplands and has become a cornerstone of Connecticut’s wine country. You can enjoy wine tastings daily year-round, stroll through the picturesque vineyards, and create lasting memories in this tranquil setting.
As one of the first wineries on the Connecticut Wine Trail, Stonington Vineyards combines traditional oak barrel fermentation methods with modern winemaking technology. The winery welcomes visitors from 11 AM to 4:30 PM daily, making it a perfect stop whether you’re traveling from New York or Boston. When you visit, you’ll experience the beauty of Connecticut’s wine country while savoring locally crafted wines in a stunning rural setting.
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Stonington Vineyards
Stonington Vineyards is one of the original Connecticut wineries on the CT Wine Trail. Located halfway between New York and Boston, this charming vineyard offers a perfect getaway in Connecticut Wine Country.
You can visit Stonington Vineyards any day of the year from 11am to 5pm. During summer months (June through September), they extend Saturday hours until 7pm, giving you more time to enjoy their beautiful setting.
The vineyard hosts regular events to enhance your visit. Their Winter Music Series runs every Saturday from January through April, featuring top local musicians. They also offer unique craft workshops like paper quilling classes where you can sip wine while creating art.
When you visit, take time to stroll through the vineyard, sample their wines in the tasting room, and soak in the picturesque surroundings. It’s a perfect spot to create lasting memories with friends and family in Connecticut’s scenic countryside.
Rating: 4.3 (293 reviews)
Location: 523 Taugwonk Rd, Stonington, CT 06378
Contact: (860) 535-1222
Website: Visit Website
History of Stonington Vineyards
Stonington Vineyards has deep roots in Connecticut’s wine culture, transforming from a simple plot of land to one of the state’s most beloved wineries over the past few decades.
Founding and Early Years
Nick and Happy Smith established Stonington Vineyards in 1987 when they purchased 58 acres in the beautiful Stonington Uplands. The property already had wine grapes planted earlier in that decade, giving them a head start in their winemaking journey.
A key moment in the vineyard’s early history came on July 4th, 1987, when Mike McAndrew joined as winemaker. His expertise proved invaluable as they reconfigured the vineyards and constructed the winery.
The actual winery building was completed in 1989, combining traditional oak barrel fermentation methods with the latest winemaking technology available at that time. This blend of old and new approaches helped establish their reputation for quality wines.
Evolution and Growth
Over the years, Stonington Vineyards has grown into a cornerstone of Connecticut’s wine scene. The vineyard became one of the first stops on the Connecticut Wine Trail, helping to put the state on the map for wine enthusiasts.
In 2014, the winery underwent significant updates to modernize its facilities while maintaining its charm. These improvements helped enhance both the winemaking process and visitor experience.
Rachel joined the team after moving from Napa Valley, California in 2001. Her friendship with Happy Smith and her extensive wine industry experience have contributed to the vineyard’s continued success and development.
Today, you can visit Stonington Vineyards seven days a week year-round, with daily tours at 2:00 PM. The vineyard stands as a testament to Connecticut’s growing reputation for fine wines.
Wine Selection and Tasting Experience
Stonington Vineyards offers a delightful wine tasting adventure in the heart of Connecticut’s wine country. For $16, you can sample six different wines and take home a souvenir glass to remember your visit.
Signature Wines
Stonington Vineyards produces premium Connecticut wines that showcase the region’s unique terroir. Their Riesling stands out as a favorite among visitors, offering crisp and refreshing flavors that perfectly capture the vineyard’s expertise.
You’ll find a variety of wines to suit different palates, from whites to reds and seasonal specialties. The winery takes pride in their boutique status, focusing on quality over quantity in their wine production process.
During your tasting, friendly staff will guide you through each wine’s flavor profile and production methods. The wines reflect the vineyard’s commitment to Connecticut’s growing wine tradition, making them perfect souvenirs to take home.
Tasting Room Ambiance
The tasting room at Stonington Vineyards provides a welcoming atmosphere for your wine adventure. Recently renovated, the space features local artwork available for purchase, adding a cultural dimension to your wine experience.
You can enjoy tastings year-round, with the vineyard extending its hours from June 1st to October 1st (11am to 7pm). Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to ensure you can complete your tasting experience without feeling rushed.
For a deeper understanding of the winemaking process, free winery tours are offered on Fridays and Sundays at noon during winter months (November-April). The gazebo area accommodates small groups of up to 10 people, making it perfect for intimate gatherings with friends.
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