Goodbye Napa Valley, So Long Finger Lakes: This New England Region Is An Underrated Hotspot For Wine

Napa Valley may be America's most famous wine destination out west, while the Finger Lakes give the East Coast wine region dimension. However, New England has its own underrated wine region, tucked among the rolling hills of northeastern Connecticut's "Quiet Corner." The Eastern Connecticut Highlands offer a hidden gem alternative to the country's better-known wine destinations, with small vineyards, family-run tasting rooms, and a scenic countryside spread out among five wineries.

The region's mild climate gives its wines a character distinct from those produced in California's warmer vineyards or Upstate New York's terroirs. Eastern Connecticut wineries grow a mix of traditional European grapes and cold-hardy varieties that can withstand New England winters, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Merlot, according to Viniou. The resulting blend is a diverse selection of wines, from crisp whites to fuller-bodied reds, which can be enjoyed in cozy tasting rooms.

The Eastern Connecticut Highlands span several rural communities, including Woodstock, East Haddam, Colchester, and surrounding towns. Hartford is roughly 30 minutes-to-an-hour from many of the region's wineries, while Providence is also within driving distance, making the area convenient for a weekend road trip from either city. A car is the easiest way to explore, particularly because the vineyards are scattered throughout the countryside. You could even embark on a Route 169 road trip that connects classic New England towns.

Several wineries have helped establish Eastern Connecticut as a laid back viticulture destination. Sharpe Hill Vineyard in Pomfret is one of the region's most recognized wineries, with more than 450 international medals. The winery produces Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, St. Croix, and its flagship Vignoles, served in a cozy tasting room.

Taylor Brooke Winery in Woodstock is another stop on the CT Wine Trail. Its wines lean heavily into the unique, with Noiret or fruit varieties like the Autumn Raspberry and Summer Peach. After that, you can visit Priam: A Winiarski Family Vineyard. Established in 1998, this Colchester-based estate has received multiple international medals for its wine varieties. Some of the most impressive are the Jeremy River White — which has notes of multiple fruits and has won seven international medals — and the Westchester Red, which has 10 medals.

Cassidy Hill Vineyard in Coventry produces a large range of wines, one of which won the Connecticut Wine Society's 2018 Amenti del Vino "Best in Show," according to the vineyard's website. The uniquely fruity Pink Catawba, which took home the prize, is a rosé variety with notes of pineapple. Rounding out the five vineyards in the AVA is Staehly Farm & Winery, which is as much a working farm as it is a winery. Depending on the time of year, you can go there to pick fruit or select a Christmas tree, and you can grab a drink in the cozy wine and cider tasting rooms.

Wine is only part of the appeal of visiting the quiet northeastern corner of Connecticut. The Eastern Connecticut Highlands are surrounded by classic New England scenery, with historic villages, stone walls, wooded hills, farms, and winding country roads connecting the region's wineries. Thompson, which marks the upper portion of the AVA, is a charming town nestled in Connecticut's "Quiet Corner" with outdoor adventure and a thrilling racetrack.

For travelers who want to get outside, Natchaug State Forest is in the heart of the Eastern Connecticut Wine Region and is a serene spot for backpacking, camping, hiking, and fishing. The forest is home to the 3.5-mile CCC Trail Loop, which features 462 feet of elevation gain and has an easy rating on AllTrails. One reviewer cautioned to "Be vigilant to the map because you'll come across roads that aren't marked well to guide you left or right. Other than that it was absolutely amazing." Mashamoquet Brook State Park in Pomfret offers additional hiking trails and distinctive geological formations, including Indian Chair and Table Rock.

Autumn is a particularly appealing time to visit the wine region, when harvest season overlaps with fall foliage across northeastern Connecticut. Leaf peeping is one of the biggest tourism draws of the state, and although vibrant fall colors extend into November, the best time to see the colorful display is in early October. Summer is another popular period, especially for outdoor tastings and vineyard events.