New Hampshire’s wine scene has grown in recent years. The state now boasts many wineries and vineyards for wine lovers to explore. Wine tours offer a fun way to taste local wines and see how they’re made.
You can visit several wineries in one day on a New Hampshire wine tour. These tours let you try different wines and learn about winemaking. You’ll get to see vineyards, tour production facilities, and talk to winemakers. It’s a great activity for a day trip or weekend getaway in the Granite State.
1) Zorvino Vineyards
Zorvino Vineyards offers a delightful wine tasting experience in Sandown, New Hampshire. You’ll find this family-owned winery nestled on 80 beautiful acres of New England hardwood forest.
When you visit, you can enjoy a tour of the picturesque vineyard and sample their award-winning wines. Zorvino’s tasting bar is perfect for those who want to savor different varieties and learn about wine.
You can book a private tasting experience with one of Zorvino’s knowledgeable wine educators. They’ll guide you through the flavors and aromas of their unique blends.
The winery also hosts events and offers handcrafted, seasonally inspired foods. You’ll appreciate the combination of great wine and delicious fare in a charming setting.
Zorvino Vineyards has been producing wine since 2004. Their experience shows in the quality of their products and the warmth of their hospitality.
You can purchase your favorite wines to take home after your tasting. It’s a great way to remember your visit and share the flavors of New Hampshire with friends and family.
2) LaBelle Winery
LaBelle Winery offers you a chance to explore New Hampshire’s wine scene. You can join a guided tour of the winery on weekends. These tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at how they make their wines.
After your tour, you can enjoy a tasting. LaBelle has over 30 different wines for you to try. You can choose between a 6-wine or 10-wine tasting flight.
The winery also has a Bistro where you can eat. It’s open from Wednesday to Sunday. The food is farm-to-fork, meaning it’s fresh and local.
LaBelle Winery isn’t just about wine. In winter, they host LaBelle Lights, a holiday light show. You can walk through a winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights.
You’ll find LaBelle Winery in Amherst, New Hampshire. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening learning about and tasting local wines.
3) Flag Hill Distillery & Winery
Flag Hill Distillery & Winery offers a unique wine tour experience in New Hampshire. You’ll find this gem located in Lee, just a short drive from many major cities in the state.
As the oldest distillery in New Hampshire, Flag Hill has a rich history of crafting high-quality spirits and wines. You can explore their beautiful vineyard and see how they grow their grapes.
The winery offers public tastings for just $10 per person. You can sample their award-winning wines and spirits, all made right on site. For a more in-depth experience, try their elevated tastings at $35 per person.
Flag Hill’s tasting room is open year-round, Wednesday through Sunday. You can drop in between 11 am and 5 pm to enjoy their products and learn about their process.
Guided walking tours are available on many weekends. These tours give you a behind-the-scenes look at wine and spirit production. If you’re part of a group, you can book a private tour in advance.
Don’t forget to stop by their gift store. You can pick up your favorite wines and spirits to enjoy at home. It’s a great way to remember your visit to this top-rated New Hampshire winery.
4) Hermit Woods Winery & Deli
You’ll find Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery in downtown Meredith, NH. This boutique winery offers a unique tasting experience you won’t want to miss.
Take a tour of the winery to learn about its rich history and winemaking process. You’ll explore the production area and barrel room, gaining insight into their craft.
After the tour, enjoy a wine tasting featuring their handcrafted wines. Hermit Woods is known for using local ingredients to create distinctive flavors.
The winery also has a full-service restaurant. You can pair your favorite wine with delicious food while taking in the charming atmosphere.
Hermit Woods is open seven days a week, year-round. You can visit for a tasting or tour any day of the week.
If you’re looking for evening entertainment, check out their musical performances. They host jazz, R&B, folk, and world music events on Thursdays.
For a more relaxed vibe, stop by on Fridays or Saturdays for their Piano Nights. These events don’t require tickets, making them perfect for a spontaneous visit.
5) Seven Birches Winery
You’ll find Seven Birches Winery nestled in the grand RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire. This winery offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The winery’s tasting room is open daily, allowing you to sample their locally crafted wines at your convenience. You can explore a variety of flavors made from both local and international fruits and juices.
For a more in-depth experience, consider joining the “Meet the Winemakers” tour. This intimate tour gives you a chance to chat with the winemakers and learn about the wine-making process firsthand.
During the tour, you’ll get to taste “wine in progress” and sample some of New Hampshire’s finest wines. The small group size, limited to 15 people, ensures a personal and engaging experience.
Seven Birches Winery began its journey in 2010 at Windy Ridge Orchard before moving to its current location in 2016. Today, it stands as a must-visit destination for wine lovers exploring the Granite State.
Remember to check their website for tour schedules and tasting room hours before your visit. You’ll find Seven Birches Winery a delightful stop on your New Hampshire wine tour.
History of Wine Making in New Hampshire
Wine making in New Hampshire has deep roots tied to the state’s independent spirit. The story begins with hardy settlers who embraced the motto “Live Free or Die” as inspiration for their winemaking endeavors.
In the 1980s, pioneers planted the first commercial vineyards in the state. These early wine makers faced challenges from the harsh New England climate but persevered through innovation and determination.
You’ll find that many NH wineries started as small family operations. They experimented with cold-hardy grape varieties and fruit wines to overcome the short growing season.
Key milestones in NH wine history:
- 1980s: First commercial vineyards planted
- 1990: Initial grape harvest at Flag Hill Winery
- 1994: NH Winery Association formed
- 2000s: Rapid growth in number of wineries
Today, you can explore over 25 wineries across the state. Each offers a unique taste of New Hampshire’s wine making heritage.
Many vineyards now offer tours where you can learn about their history and production methods. LaBelle Winery provides guided tours that dive deep into their winemaking process.
As you visit NH wineries, you’ll discover a blend of traditional techniques and modern innovations. This mix reflects the state’s evolving wine industry and its commitment to quality.
Unique Terroirs and Varietals
New Hampshire’s wine scene offers distinct flavors shaped by its land and climate. You’ll find grapes that thrive in cooler weather and wines that capture the essence of local soils.
Climate and Soil Conditions
New Hampshire’s terroir is unique due to its cold winters and short growing seasons. The state’s rocky, well-drained soils are perfect for certain grape varieties.
Coastal areas benefit from milder temperatures, while inland regions face more extreme conditions. This variety creates different microclimates across the state.
Granite-rich soils give New Hampshire wines their mineral notes. The mix of clay and loam in some areas adds complexity to the grapes.
You’ll notice how these elements influence the wine’s taste. Each sip tells a story of the land where the grapes grew.
Featured Grape Varieties
New Hampshire wineries grow both traditional and hybrid grapes. You’ll find varieties specially bred for colder climates.
Popular white grapes include:
- Cayuga
- Seyval Blanc
- Vidal Blanc
Red varieties that do well are:
- Marechal Foch
- Frontenac
- Marquette
These grapes produce wines with crisp acidity and unique flavors. You might taste notes of apple, pear, or cherry in local wines.
Some wineries, like Black Bear Vineyard & Winery, grow up to 7 varieties of estate wines. This gives you a chance to explore diverse local flavors.
When you visit, ask about the specific grapes used. Each variety showcases how New Hampshire’s terroir affects wine production.
Seasonal Highlights
New Hampshire wineries offer unique experiences throughout the year. Each season brings its own charm and activities for wine lovers to enjoy.
Spring Blossoms and Tastings
Spring is a magical time at New Hampshire wineries. You’ll see vineyards coming to life with new growth. Many wineries offer special spring tasting events.
LaBelle Winery in Amherst hosts springtime tours. You can learn about the winemaking process as vines start budding.
Some wineries pair their wines with fresh spring produce. You might try:
- Crisp white wines with local asparagus
- Light rosés alongside spring salads
- Fruit wines paired with strawberry desserts
Spring is also a great time to enjoy outdoor seating at many wineries. You can sip wine while taking in views of blooming orchards and gardens.
Autumn Harvest Festivals
New Hampshire wine tours become popular in fall. Many wineries host harvest festivals and special events.
During these festivals, you can often:
- Watch grape harvesting in action
- Take part in grape stomping activities
- Enjoy live music and food trucks
Fall colors make vineyard visits extra special. You’ll see stunning foliage as you tour the grounds.
Some wineries offer autumn wine and food pairings. You might sample:
- Bold reds with hearty stews
- Spiced wines alongside pumpkin treats
- Apple wines paired with local cheeses
Many tasting rooms feature cozy fireplaces for chilly days. It’s a perfect setting to enjoy full-bodied wines as temperatures drop.
