Vermont’s wine scene feels lively and welcoming. You’ll stumble across beautiful vineyards, family-run spots, and places that mix wine with local food, cheese, or even art.
Most wineries offer tours, tastings, and a chance to meet the folks behind your favorite bottles. Sometimes, you get to hear their stories firsthand.
Best Vermont Wineries to Visit
When you picture Vermont wine, Shelburne Vineyard probably comes to mind first. This spot wins awards for its bottles and has a gorgeous tasting room.
They focus on cold-hardy grapes like La Crescent, Marquette, and Riesling. The staff here love to chat about what makes Vermont grapes special.
Lincoln Peak Vineyard is another local favorite. You can sip Marquette, Traminette, or Vidal Blanc while soaking in mountain views.
Their tasting room feels inviting, and they host regular events with musicians or food trucks. It’s a good place to unwind.
Snow Farm Vineyard brings people out to its island setting on Lake Champlain. Visitors enjoy crisp reds and whites and often stick around for summer music nights.
If you want a classic Vermont wine experience, these three should be high on your list. You can find more options in this Vermont wineries guide.
Hidden Gems: Boutique and Family-Owned Vineyards
Vermont hides plenty of smaller, family-run vineyards that don’t always make the headlines. Ellison Estate Vineyard, just outside Burlington, grows organic grapes and makes small-batch wines.
You might meet the owners during tastings and hear how Vermont’s soil and weather shape their bottles.
Charlotte Village Winery offers a quieter vibe and pours fruit wines like blueberry and cranberry. Their laid-back setting lets you slow down and really take in the countryside.
These boutique spots often team up with local artisans. Sometimes, they share space with places like Moosedog Studios, which shows off regional art.
It’s not just about the wine—it’s about the people and traditions that make each visit unique. You can dig up more hidden gems in this Vermont vineyard list.
Winery Tours and Tastings
Most Vermont wineries keep their tasting rooms open all year. Guided tastings usually feature flights of La Crescent, Marquette, and other cold-climate grapes.
Winemakers like to explain the process and answer questions. They seem to enjoy sharing what they know.
Plenty of wineries sit along the Vermont Cheese Trail, the Vermont Beer Trail, or the Vermont Distillers Trail. You can pair your visit with local cheese or chocolate, often made nearby.
Some tours include walks through the vineyard, a peek at the winemaking process, or a chat with University of Vermont researchers working on sustainable farming.
It’s smart to check hours or book a tasting ahead, especially when things get busy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vermont packs in lots of small wineries, unique tasting rooms, and vineyard tours. The local wine scene focuses on cold-climate grapes and always offers up some beautiful scenery.
What’s the deal with wine trails in Vermont?
Vermont has several wine trails that tie together popular wineries around the state. These trails make it easy to plan a day of visits without much stress.
Each trail leads you through small towns and rolling countryside. You’ll find maps and guides to help you figure it out.
Looking for a good winery tour in Vermont, any suggestions?
Shelburne Vineyard gives tours along with tastings, so you can see how their local wine comes together. Snow Farm Vineyard also offers tours that walk you through the winemaking process.
Some places suggest you bring a group for the best experience. If you’re rolling in with six or more, it’s a good idea to call ahead. Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery recommends this so they can get ready for your visit.
Can anyone tell me about the top-rated wineries to visit in Vermont?
Locals and visitors love Shelburne Vineyard, Snow Farm Vineyard, and Putney Mountain Winery. These spots have built a reputation for quality wine, friendly staff, and fun events.
You’ll find reds, whites, and even some fruit-based wines at these places. Each winery has its own style, so tasting flights help you figure out what you like best.
How’s the wine scene in Northern Vermont?
Northern Vermont’s chilly weather pushes winemakers to get creative. They use grapes and fruits that thrive here, like Marquette and La Crescent, and turn them into some tasty bottles.
Wineries like Shelburne Vineyard and Snow Farm Vineyard focus on these cold-hardy varieties. The results? Fresh, crisp wines that really fit the vibe of the region.
Are there any Vermont wineries with a great view?
A lot of Vermont wineries sit among rolling hills, lakes, or mountains. Snow Farm Vineyard stands out for its lake views, and Shelburne Vineyard gives you a peek at the Green Mountains.
These scenic spots are perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine. Most places offer indoor and outdoor seating, so you can pick your favorite view.
Where can I find a map of all the cool wineries in Vermont?
You’ll spot plenty of guides and maps online, especially on local tourism sites. Some winery websites, like Snow Farm Vineyard & Winery, share handy planning tools for visitors.
Honestly, it’s smart to check each winery’s website for the latest directions and hours. That way, you won’t run into any surprises when you set out for your winery tour.