Rhode Island may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to wine. The Ocean State offers a unique blend of coastal charm and vineyard experiences. You can find a variety of wineries scattered across the state, each with its own character and flavors.
Wine tours in Rhode Island give you a chance to taste local wines and enjoy scenic views. You can visit multiple vineyards in a single day, sampling different varieties and learning about winemaking processes. These tours often include transportation, so you can relax and fully enjoy your tasting experience without worrying about driving.
1) Newport Vineyards Tour
You can take a tour and tasting experience at Newport Vineyards. These tours happen daily at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. Each tour lasts about 60-75 minutes.
During the tour, a wine educator will guide you through the winery and vineyard. You’ll get to know more about the unique property and how they make their wines.
The tour ends with a tasting of four wines. You can choose from over 20 options. This gives you a chance to try different flavors and find your favorite.
Newport Vineyards offers more than just tours. You can also do wine and beer tastings without a tour. These are available any time during open hours. You don’t need to book ahead for tastings.
If you want to relax, you can grab a glass of wine or a pint of beer and enjoy the property. The vineyard has beautiful views that add to your experience.
2) Greenvale Vineyards Tasting
When you visit Greenvale Vineyards, you can enjoy a delightful wine tasting experience. The vineyard offers tours and tastings led by expert guides.
You can choose from several tasting options. The public tour and tasting is available Thursday through Sunday at set times. It costs $50 plus a 20% service charge.
During your visit, you’ll learn about the family’s history and their dedication to historic preservation. The guides will also share information about Greenvale’s high-quality wines.
The tasting room provides stunning views of the Sakonnet River. You can savor small-batch, estate-grown wines while taking in the beautiful landscape.
If you prefer, Greenvale also offers an outdoor wine experience. This option lets you enjoy your tasting amid the vineyard’s natural beauty.
For a more personal touch, you can book a private tour and tasting through their reservation system. This gives you a more intimate look at the winemaking process.
3) Sakonnet Vineyards Experience
Sakonnet Vineyard offers a premier wine tour experience in Rhode Island. You’ll find this gem nestled on 150 acres of beautiful land in Little Compton.
As you arrive, the breathtaking scenery will immediately catch your eye. The vineyard’s grounds are perfect for a relaxing stroll before or after your tasting.
During your visit, you’ll have the chance to sample award-winning wines made from locally grown grapes. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including their popular Rhode Island Red.
Your tasting experience will be enhanced by knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the flavors and aromas of each wine. They can also share insights about the winemaking process.
For a more in-depth experience, you can join a guided tour of the facility. You’ll learn about the vineyard’s history, which dates back to 1975, and see how the wines are crafted.
Sakonnet Vineyard is open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. It’s advisable to check their website or call ahead for any seasonal changes to their hours.
Remember to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the vineyard. You might also want to purchase a bottle of your favorite wine to enjoy at home.
4) Diamond Hill Winery Visit
You’ll find a hidden gem in Cumberland, Rhode Island at Diamond Hill Vineyards. This family-run winery sits on over 30 acres of stunning vineyards, gardens, and woodlands.
As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the charming sight of four acres of Pinot Noir vines. The Berntson family planted their first vines here in 1976, continuing a long New England winemaking tradition.
During your visit, you can enjoy a wine tasting session that showcases their unique fruit and grape wines. For just $8, you’ll get to sample a flight of four different wines.
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of fruit wines on offer. Despite being fruit-based, these wines are not overly sweet and offer interesting flavor profiles.
The friendly staff will guide you through the tasting, sharing their knowledge about the winemaking process. You’ll learn about the art of crafting wines from both grapes and other fruits.
After your tasting, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. In the summer months, you can even attend small garden parties hosted by the vineyard.
5) ShelaLara Vineyards Walkthrough
At ShelaLara Vineyards & Winery, you’ll enjoy a unique wine tasting experience in Coventry, Rhode Island. Your visit begins with a warm welcome from the friendly staff.
The winery offers tours and tastings that typically last about two hours. You’ll start with a walk through the vineyard, learning about grape varieties and growing techniques.
Next, you’ll head to the production area. Here, you’ll see how grapes are transformed into wine. The guide will explain the fermentation process and aging methods.
The highlight of your visit is the wine tasting session. You’ll sample a variety of ShelaLara’s wines, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through each tasting, describing flavor notes and food pairings.
As a memento of your visit, you’ll receive a complimentary wine glass to take home. Don’t forget to browse the winery’s shop for bottles to enjoy later.
History of Wine Production in Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s wine production has deep roots and a fascinating journey. The state’s unique climate and geography have shaped its winemaking traditions over time.
Early Beginnings
Wine production in Rhode Island dates back to colonial times. European settlers brought grapevines and winemaking skills with them in the 17th century. The maritime climate of the region proved favorable for grape growing.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, small-scale vineyards dotted the Rhode Island landscape. Farmers often made wine for personal consumption and local trade. Grapes like Concord and Catawba thrived in the coastal environment.
By the mid-1800s, Rhode Island had developed a modest wine industry. Local wines gained popularity at regional fairs and exhibitions.
Modern Developments
The 20th century saw ups and downs in Rhode Island’s wine scene. Prohibition dealt a blow to commercial winemaking. After its repeal, the industry slowly rebounded.
In the 1970s and 1980s, a new wave of winemakers emerged. They introduced European grape varieties and modern techniques. Vineyards and wineries began popping up across the state.
Today, Rhode Island boasts a thriving wine industry. You’ll find wineries producing a wide range of styles. From crisp whites to bold reds, the state’s wines reflect its unique terroir.
Many wineries now offer tours and tastings. You can experience firsthand the rich history and bright future of Rhode Island wine.
Understanding Rhode Island Terroir
Rhode Island’s unique terroir shapes its wines. The state’s coastal location and maritime climate create distinct growing conditions that influence grape characteristics and flavors.
Climate and Geography
Rhode Island’s coastal climate provides a favorable environment for winemaking. You’ll find vineyards nestled near the ocean, benefiting from sea breezes and moderate temperatures. The state’s maritime influence helps protect vines from extreme cold in winter.
Rhode Island’s soil varies, with some areas rich in minerals from glacial deposits. This diverse terrain allows different grape varieties to thrive. You’ll see vineyards in various settings, from coastal areas to inland regions.
Impact on Flavor Profiles
The state’s terroir imparts unique characteristics to its wines. Coastal vineyards often produce wines with hints of salt and minerality. In white wines, you might taste crisp acidity, reflecting the cool ocean breezes.
Rhode Island’s climate favors certain grape varieties. You’ll find excellent Chardonnay, Riesling, and Vidal Blanc wines. These grapes thrive in the state’s conditions, producing wines with distinct flavors.
The terroir also influences red wines. You might notice lighter-bodied reds with bright fruit flavors, shaped by the cooler growing conditions.
