Local Wineries in Fairfield

Among Connecticut's many outstanding qualities, one of the most surprising and perhaps underappreciated is the state's vibrant wine scene that blends scenic beauty with exquisite handcrafted wines. With quaint vineyards set upon rolling landscapes and intimate wineries, both urban and rural, to sample the seasonal wares, the region offers a diverse selection of vintages catering to every palate. Fortunately for those who live in and around Fairfield, Southport, Weston, and broader Fairfield County, many of the state's top wine producers are a short drive away, reachable in less than an hour.

Below, we showcase nine local wineries in and around Fairfield, all of which promise unforgettable tasting experiences for the casual enthusiast and the devoted connoisseur.

Located in Newtown, Aquila's Nest Vineyards is a boutique, climate-neutral vineyard that offers a contemporary twist on winemaking. With stunning vineyard views across its 41-acre farm site, Aquila's Nest boasts a 4,000-square-foot winemaking facility and a thoughtfully designed 75-seat tasting space. Visitors are treated to unique, locally crafted wines while taking in the peaceful surroundings. The vineyard frequently hosts live music, food trucks, and themed events, making it a lively spot to gather with friends or family.

Nestled on 58 acres in the rolling hills of Watertown, Hawk Ridge Winery is a family-owned gem that blends a love for winemaking with a welcoming, social atmosphere, epitomized by its 5,500-square-foot winemaking and tasting room facility. The winery is known for its diverse range of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds, which can be enjoyed on its spacious outdoor patio. Live music, food pairings, and seasonal events add to the winery's vibrant charm, making it a must-visit for wine lovers seeking a laid-back yet elegant setting.

Situated on farmland managed by the same family for nearly two and a half centuries, the award-winning Hopkins Vineyard is set on the northern shore of Lake Waramaug. A picturesque and historic wine experience, the vineyard was first established in the 1970s, featuring 12 grape varieties on a 30-acre plot that once served as a dairy farm. A boutique producer with an output of approximately 7,000 cases per year, highlighting the rustic ambiance, is a beautiful tasting room housed in a restored barn. It provides a cozy setting to sample their selection of reds, whites, and sparkling wines while enjoying breathtaking lake views.

Part of the historic Jones Family Farms, Jones Winery, less than 30 minutes from Fairfield in Shelton, is a beloved Connecticut winery that prides itself on its "farm-to-glass" philosophy. Using estate-grown grapes and locally sourced ingredients, the winery produces more than 20 varieties of wines that capture the essence of New England. Visitors can explore the scenic farm, partake in tastings, and even participate in seasonal fruit-picking experiences, including strawberries and blueberries in the summer and pumpkins and Christmas trees during the holiday season, making this winery a delightful destination for all ages.

For those seeking a hands-on approach to winemaking, Shelter Rock Winery in the heart of Danbury offers a unique, interactive experience. This urban winery, led by expert winemaker Giovanni Petretta, allows members to craft their own wines from grape selection to bottling. Shelter Rock's focus on small-batch production ensures quality and exclusivity, making it an excellent choice for creating a genuinely personalized wine.

A family-run vineyard with an agricultural history dating back more than 150 years, Sunset Meadow Vineyards grows a variety of classic and hybrid grapes on a gorgeous 170 acres,  resulting in well-structured wines that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Located in the heart of Litchfield Hills, Sunset Meadow is most widely known for its award-winning Cayuga White, Chardonnay, and Merlot varietals. Guests can enjoy wine flights, vineyard tours, and scenic picnic spots that make for a perfect countryside getaway.

Overlooking Lake Quassapaug, Tranquillity Vineyard & Winery offers a refined yet relaxing wine experience. The vineyard, located on 45 acres of historic J.H. Whittemore's Tranquillity Farm, features estate-grown wines that reflect the area's rich agricultural history. Their guided tours, including those of the vineyard with the winemaker, and welcome tasting areas inside and out provide an ideal setting for savoring fine Connecticut wines.

Walker Road Vineyards in Woodbury is among the smallest operations on our list. The family-owned winery takes great pride in producing limited-batch wines from locally grown grapes, including its award-winning Walker Road Red Table Wine. Housed in a beautifully restored 150-year-old barn, the tasting room offers a charming, pastoral setting where visitors can sample elegant blends that showcase Connecticut's winemaking expertise. Seasonal events and cheese pairings further enhance the experience.

Finally, for those looking to try something different, White Silo Farm & Winery in Sherman specializes in small-batch wines made from locally grown fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, and rhubarb. Set on a historic farm, the winery offers a charming tasting room, art gallery, and seasonal farm festivals celebrating the region's agricultural heritage. Their fruit-forward wines provide a refreshing twist on traditional vineyard offerings.

Fairfield County and its surrounding areas boast a diverse and thriving wine scene, offering everything from lakefront vineyards and rolling countryside estates to hands-on winemaking experiences. Whether you prefer the refined elegance of a historic winery or the lively atmosphere of a modern vineyard, there's no shortage of places to sip and savor in this beautiful corner of Connecticut.

If you're ready to discover more about luxury homes in Fairfield, contact Cindy Raney & Team today for the best combination of experience and expertise.