City: Sandy Hook, CT

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (203) 426-1533

Address: 14 Albert’s Hill Rd.

Description: In the heart of Sandy Hook, not far from the Housatonic River, you’ll find McLaughlin Vineyards. Established in 1979, it is one of the oldest vineyards in the state. The winery and tasting room are nestled among 160 acres of picturesque property where you’ll find hiking trails and even a bald eagle sanctuary. The winery’s 15 acres spread out as you travel the gravel road to the tasting room, where stone steps ascend to a patio and tables full of tasters or a band strumming away on a summer evening. You’ll sample whites like Blue Coyote, made with estate-grown Vidal Blanc and Aurora grapes, and reds like Vista Reposa, a complex blend that provides three distinct notes—earth, vanilla, and chocolate on the finish. In the front area of the tasting building is the Country Store, and don’t miss the maple sugar produced on-site.