Winemaking is no stranger to the coastal region of New England. So much so that this area can be identified as the Coastal Wine Trail, not just to locals, but nationally.
As a wine enthusiast, whether you are just starting out or have years of experience, one of the greatest insights is knowing that great wine does not come just from Italy or France, but also right here in the states.
Although most wineries offer online orders, there is no better experience than visiting a winery and vineyard. If New England is your destination, you will not fall short in finding a perfect winery to visit.
New England Wineries
New England wineries are a mix of generational wine growers as well as fresh faces in the industry. It has an expanded history with wine as the coastal area can provide rich soil and ideal climates for harvesting grapes.
Traditional as well as out of the box flavors can be found at every winery in this area. There is no limitation for experimentation for these winegrowers. They pride themselves on their work, making your visiting experience that much more rewarding.
The New England Coastal Wine Trail stretches from Connecticut to Rhode Island and Massachusetts. It is a vast region with maritime climates closely related to each other. The coastal trail is known in general for its Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Seyval Blanc and Vidal Blanc.
Wineries to Visit
The New England Coastal region is home to a plethora of wineries that you can visit, and each one is a guaranteed good time. If you are not sure where to visit, never fear, here are ten suggested wineries and vineyards to visit on and around the Coastal Wine Trail.
Truro Vineyards of Cape Cod – Truro, MA
Located in the peaceful, seaside setting of Truro, Truro Vineyards is one place you will not want to miss. Perched between Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Truro Vineyards is an almost 200 year old farmhouse estate run by the Roberts family, spreading across five beautiful acres.
Enjoy a variety of reds, whites, and signature series blends as you catch the calming ocean breeze next to over 44,000 acres of protected national seashore. Truro Vineyards is known in the region for growing Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.
You can also visit their onsite distillery, South Hollow Spirits, which produces Twenty Boat Rums and Dry Line Gin all in a 250 gallon pot still. Enjoy a delicious cocktail or glass of wine in a laid back environment.
Truro Vineyards often has live entertainment events to attend while visiting. Check out their updated event calendar for seasonal live music. Food trucks are a staple on the estate during warmer weather, making it perfect for a bite and a drink! Truro Vineyards offers private and reserved tastings as well.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday – Saturday 11 am – 5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm
Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard – Little Compton, RI
Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard was founded over forty years ago, taking advantage of an ideal climate and soil conditions to become one of the premier vineyards in New England.
Spreading over 150 acres of land, the vineyard produces exceptional dessert wines, rosés, and white barrel-aged wines. Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard has award-winning varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Vidal Blanc, and more.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in the afternoon as well as high-quality local fare at the Vineyard bistro. A sun-soaked New England day is best spent at their tasting room or on the sprawling front lawn where you can relax on their iconic wooden chairs.
Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard also offers live entertainment throughout the season. Be sure to check their current schedule to stay up to date on upcoming performances.
Hours of Operation:
- Friday – Monday 12 pm – 4 pm (Seasonal hours may vary)
- Typically closed Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
Newport Vineyards – Middletown, RI
Founded in 1995, Newport Vineyards is family owned and operated by the Nunes brothers. Located just about 10 minutes from the historic town of Newport, the estate is famous for its refined resort atmosphere.
Newport Vineyards stretches across 100 acres of preserved farmland, aiming to bring the Napa Valley wine experience to New England. The vineyard produces over twenty handcrafted reds, whites, rosés, and specialty wines through sustainable farming practices.
While visiting, take a trip to their small-batch brew house, Taproot Brewing, which features hop-forward brews and local flavors. On top of this, enjoy delectable food at Brix Restaurant, which sources local ingredients for a true farm-to-table experience.
Public tours and tastings are offered daily, providing an educational look into their modern winemaking facilities.
Hours of Operation:
- Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 6 pm
- Friday – Saturday 11 am – 8 pm
Maugle Sierra Vineyard – Ledyard, CT
Just 10 minutes from Mystic Seaport, Maugle Sierra Vineyard is nestled in Coastal New England, representing a true rolling hills aesthetic. Since 2002, Maugle Sierra has been producing a variety of premium handcrafted and locally grown wines.
All grapes used for their wines are either grown on-site or within a 100-mile radius of the vineyard. For wine tasters who enjoy fruit-forward beverages, Maugle Sierra has a staple wine blend of blackberry and plum called St. Croix.
Enjoy the overlook of the 11-acre estate year-round as you taste a flight of their rich blends. Maugle Sierra offers wine patios, outdoor tasting areas, and cozy picnic spaces. Live music and community events take place regularly on the estate.
Hours of Operation:
- Thursday 12 pm – 5 pm
- Friday – Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm
Jonathon Edwards Winery – North Stonington, CT
Jonathon Edwards Winery is family-run and maintains a unique dual presence in both Connecticut and Napa Valley. The winery’s North Stonington location is placed on a secluded, romantic scenic hilltop spanning 50 acres.
Jonathon Edwards’ motto, “bringing the heart of Napa Valley to New England,” is upheld by using grapes from both locations for their distinctive blends. Their selection includes elegant whites, blushes, and robust reds.
The winery is open daily and year-round, offering comprehensive tastings, educational tours, and a variety of private event options. It remains one of the most popular wedding destinations in the region.
Hours of Operation:
- Daily 11 am – 5 pm
- (Mid-May through Mid-October: Friday & Saturday 11 am – 4 pm)
Westport Rivers Vineyard – Westport, MA
Run by the fifth-generation Russell family winemakers, Westport Rivers Vineyard spreads across 80 beautiful acres of farmland. The rich soil paired with the cool climate influenced by the Gulf Stream helps produce exceptionally crisp and aromatic wines.
Their delicious blends highlight the local regional flavors that Westport Rivers is known for. Their Pinot Noir Rosé, featuring notes of watermelon and strawberry, is a perennial summer favorite.
Westport Rivers offers a relaxed tasting experience where you can enjoy wine by the glass or flight on the lawn or patio. During colder months, they often offer fire pits and “bubbles” to keep guests warm while enjoying the vineyard views.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday – Saturday 11 am – 5 pm
Greenvale Vineyards – Portsmouth, RI
Since 1982, Greenvale Vineyards has been owned by the same family along the serene Sakonnet River. Set on lush farmland, the estate is dedicated to producing quality wines including Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, and unique varietal blends.
Here, you can sample their unique Rhode Island vermouth while soaking in the sun on the vineyard’s expansive lawn. Greenvale is deeply committed to the preservation of open space and sustainable agriculture.
They offer a full calendar of events including live jazz music, weddings, and daily tastings. While walk-ins are generally welcome, group reservations are recommended for parties larger than eight.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 5 pm
- Friday & Saturday: 11 am – Sunset
- Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Preston Ridge Vineyard – Preston, CT
Overlooking breathtaking views of the Connecticut countryside, Preston Ridge Vineyard sits on 60 pastoral acres. It is a family-owned operation founded in 2008 by the Sawyer and Helms families.
Preston Ridge has an extensive variety of wines including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Baco Noir. If you enjoy sweeter wines, try out their popular Estate Harvest Blend with its hints of honey and peach.
The vineyard regularly partners with local food truck vendors to provide delicious pairings. They offer a range of events from fire pit gatherings to live music sessions.
Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday & Thursday 12 pm – 5 pm
- Friday 12 pm – 8 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 4:30 pm
Stonington Vineyards – Stonington, CT
Established in 1987 by Nick and Happy Smith, Stonington Vineyards spreads across 58 serene acres. It is one of the oldest and most respected vineyards in Connecticut, known for its commitment to quality and tradition.
The winery offers a highly-regarded Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc. Visitors can enjoy their wine on the widespread lawn, which is pet and child friendly. Stonington hosts various events including “Sip and Paint” classes, concerts, and seasonal festivals.
Wine tastings are offered daily. Group reservations are required for parties of seven or more guests to ensure the best experience.
Hours of Operation:
- June – September: Sun-Fri 11 am – 5 pm, Sat 11 am – 7 pm
- October – May: Daily 11 am – 5 pm
Seven Birches Winery – Lincoln, NH
Seven Birches Winery is located in the five-star Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain. They produce their wine by blending European grape varieties with locally sourced fruits for a distinctive, fruit-forward flavor profile.
Try their Strawberry Wine for a delicate and refreshing summer blend. In addition to wine, Seven Birches offers a line of hard ciders called Rhythm Craft Cider.
The winery offers an informal “Meet the Winemakers” tour on select days. You can visit their primary tasting room at the resort or the Atrium Wine Bar nearby, both of which offer a relaxed and modern New England atmosphere.
Hours of Operation:
- Monday – Friday 1 pm – 6 pm
- Saturday 12 pm – 7 pm
- Sunday 11 am – 6 pm
Tips for Visiting a Tasting Room
If you are visiting a tasting room for the first time, you may feel a bit intimidated. There is no need for embarrassment, as every tasting room has its own unique atmosphere and etiquette.
Here are a few tips to ensure you have a professional and enjoyable experience.
Don’t Wear Over-Bearing Fragrances
Wine tasting is a sensory experience where aroma plays a critical role. If your senses are disrupted by strong perfumes or colognes, it can mask the delicate notes of the wine. It is best to wear light fragrances or none at all when planning a tasting visit.
Wine is Made For Drinking, So Drink
Beginners are often confused by people who spit out wine during tastings. While professional tasters do this to stay alert, there is no obligation for you to do so. If you are not visiting several other wineries afterward, it is perfectly fine to finish your samples and enjoy the craftsmanship.
Drink in Moderation
If you are visiting multiple wineries in a single day, moderation is key. Overindulging early can dull your palate and prevent you from enjoying the nuances of the wines at your later stops. Stay hydrated between tastings to keep your senses sharp.
Be Open-Minded
A tasting room is the perfect place to step outside your comfort zone. You might think you only like dry reds, but you may discover a local white or rosé that surprises you. Every winemaker has a unique style, so be willing to try varieties you normally wouldn’t choose.
Final Thoughts
The New England Coastal Wine Trail offers an eclectic mix of winegrowers spanning multiple states and generations. Whether you are seeking historic farmhouse estates or modern resort tasting rooms, this region provides a premier winery experience.
The unique maritime climate and beautiful coastal scenery make New England a must-visit destination for any wine lover.
Always check each winery’s official website before your visit for the most current information on seasonal hours and special events.