Category: Connecticut Travel

The CT Wine Trail announces the return of the 2024 Winter Wine Trail Passport Program Wine enthusiasts who get their passports stamped at all 13 participating wineries become eligible to win prizes valued at more than $5,000

One of the most popular and highly anticipated annual events along The Connecticut Wine Trail is the Winter Passport Program – a wonderful opportunity for wine enthusiasts and novices alike to explore the breathtaking countryside, visit member farm vineyards, taste delicious local wines, and win fabulous prizes – valued at over $5,000!

From January 6th through March 30th, visitors can pick up a free passport at any of the 13 participating wineries and start on a quest to visit each one. Those who get their passports stamped at all 13 wineries before March 30th become eligible to win fantastic prizes, like hotel stays, spa facials, rounds of golf, fabulous restaurant and gift cards, and of course, wonderful wine. Stamped passports must be submitted to one of the participating vineyards by the deadline date to be eligible (photocopied passports or pages will be disqualified). Winners will be chosen by random drawing on April 19th and will be notified by email or phone.

https://ctwine.com/events/winter-wine-trail

“Beat the winter blues by sipping some wonderful reds, whites, and rosés,” says Margaret Ruggerio of The CT Wine Trail and co-owner of Paradise Hills Vineyard in Wallingford. “Friends and family will enjoy a fun, unique, and delicious social experience as they tour our scenic vineyards, expand their palates, and learn about the history of winemaking as they sample award-winning varieties made right here in Connecticut!”

This year’s 13 participating vineyards embrace winter with a delightful fusion of wine culture and special events, punctuated with live music, artisanal food pairings, craft nights, paint & sip workshops, and more, providing visitors an excellent day or weekend adventure, centered around Connecticut-made wine.

Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, 56 Pole Bridge Road, Sandy Hook. This is an experience-focused, climate-neutral certified vineyard, and event venue beautifully situated on 40 estate acres. Inspired by mythological tales of powerful women and a love of astronomy, this vineyard offers nine heavenly wines seasonally. They offer a fine selection of reds, rose, whites, and zesty Sangria by the pitcher.

Bishop’s Orchards, 1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford. Located in a barn dating to 1928, visitors will experience a superb assortment of award-winning fruit wines and hard ciders made from produce grown here. Bishop’s Orchard also offers a unique wine selection that includes a mix of semi-dry and semi-sweet varieties that are similar to white and blush wines.

Gouveia Vineyards, 1339 Whirlwind Hill Road, Wallingford. Joe Gouveia, originally from Portugal, had a dream to bring the winemaking traditions of his home country to Connecticut…and he has! Built of stone and old timbers, this rustic wine-tasting room has a spectacular hilltop location where the views seem to go on forever. A highlight here is to experience a taste of Portugal while sipping on reds and white wines made from 17 varietals that are picked by hand.

Hawk Ridge Winery, 26 Plungis Road, Watertown. Located on 58 bucolic acres of farmland this winery grows eight varietals of grapevines that are used in eleven of their twenty-plus wines including an evocative selection of dry or sweet, red, white, or rose wines. In addition to wine, they offer a large menu of food and appetizers that pair perfectly with their wine, completing this relaxing experience.

Hopkins Vineyard, 25 Hopkins Road, New Preston. This vineyard offers vistas of the blue waters of Lake Waramaug, from its hilltop site. A family farm since 1787, the first Hopkins vines were planted in 1979, and the nineteenth-century barn was converted to a state-of-the-art winery. Wine tastings are offered and favorites can be ordered by the glass or by the bottle, along with cheeses and pates, at The Hayloft, a wine bar with a stunning lake view. This vineyard has won many awards and accolades over the years and is a Nationally designated Bi-Centennial Farm.

Jonathan Edwards Winery, 74 Chester Main Road, North Stonington. The highlight of this vineyard is to sample their portfolio of wines, which includes four Estate varietals from their favorite growers in California without having to make the trip out west. Estate Connecticut wine is also handcrafted here. This unique experience allows guests to sample the East and West Coasts’ distinctive climate. To accompany the wine in their cozy tasting room cheese and charcuterie that is locally sourced are also available.

Kingdom of the Hawk Vineyard, 113 Pendleton Hill Road, North Stonington. New for 2024 on the CT Winter Wine Trail this vineyard marries form and function in a space that offers a perfect contemporary canvas for those looking to create events of distinction. Steel beams, polished concrete, stone, and the iconic archway are all a nod to our sister vineyard, Saltwater Farm. But Kingdom of the Hawk has its personality – a bit of drama amid a breathtaking landscape that honors the agricultural heritage of North Stonington, CT.

Paradise Hills Vineyards, 15 Windswept Hill Road, Wallingford. Unwind in a sunny Tuscan-styled tasting room with its hand-crafted copper bar, decorative chandelier, mahogany tables, and wood-burning fireplace. This cozy tasting room provides the perfect setting to enjoy wine while overlooking the vineyard. Paradise wines have been awarded 85+ points from several renowned wine competitions making sipping a true pleasure while dining on a charcuterie platter.

Priam Vineyards, 11 Shailor Hill Road, Colchester. This vineyard has won numerous International wine competition medals for its wines that are produced in the style of Northern France and Germany. It has been voted the best vineyard in Connecticut for five years. Fifteen handcrafted wines are produced throughout the year in this magical setting with its breathtaking views of the Connecticut countryside. As environmentalists, they practice sustainable agriculture and are vegan-certified.

Sharpe Hill Vineyard, 108 Wade Road, Pomfret. This vineyard has won over 450 medals in International tastings and offers reds, whites and rose in a setting of great natural beauty. It is such a treat to sip on a refreshing chardonnay or a robust cabernet while gazing out over 100 plus acres with vistas that stretch to Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Stonington Vineyards, 523 Taugwonk Road, Stonington. This is one of the first farm wineries established in Connecticut and a founding member of the Connecticut Wine Trail. They are best known for their barrel-fermented Chardonnay and their proprietary blends, Seaport White and Triad Rose. Their European-style table wines have won many awards.

Sunset Meadow Vineyards, 599 Old Middle Street, Goshen. This family-owned and operated nationally and internationally award-winning vineyard is located on over 40 acres of sloping fields overlooking the picturesque sunsets and scenery of the Western Connecticut Highlands. In addition to winning many national and international medals for their wines, Sunset Meadow has been named one of the best 101 Wineries in America by the Daily Meal. In addition to tasting by the glass or bottle, they offer specialty chocolate and wine pairing as well as a variety of cheeses from local artisans.

Taylor Brooke Winery, 818 Route 171, Woodstock. This family-owned vineyard has 17 acres of wine production and has recently opened a brewery on 27 acres that is adjacent to the winery offering guests a double experience. Sparkling, dry whites, semi-sweet whites, red, still rose, and dessert wines abound here. For a change of pace, try the Spirit of Woodstock brandy that is aged like bourbon.

About the Connecticut Wine Trail
The Connecticut Wine Trail is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing wine regions in the United States. Made up of 23 participating wineries and vineyards throughout the state of Connecticut, the CT Wine Trail offers a tremendous variety of wine styles and stunning scenery – enjoyable in every season. https://ctwine.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CTWineTrail/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctwinetrail21/

JanetLeave a comment

Take Part in Salisbury’s JumpFest Human Dog Sled Race February 2 @ Satre Hill

Jumpfest, organized by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA), isn’t just about aspiring Olympic Ski Jumpers, it also offers tons of fun including one of the most sought-after winter events found only in six or so other places around the world…the Human Dog Sled Race! As a beloved tradition at Jumpfest, this year’s Human Dog Sled Race is taking place on Friday, February 2 at Satre Hill in Salisbury. The race will begin just after the Target Jumps conclude around 8:30 p.m. The ticket booth opens at 6 p.m. and that is when team members should arrive to organize their sled and confirm their registration.

If you are wondering what a Human Dog Sled Race is…think traditional dogsledding with a twist! Participating is easy. All you have to do is gather up a kennel of friends who are at least 18 years old and have a moderate level of fitness because this .3-mile snow course is not without peril. The teams consist of six people including five pulling the sled and one riding in it.

Teams compete for trophies in men’s, women’s, and mixed categories. In addition to awards for speed and fleet of foot, a very special award is given out, the People’s Choice Award for the Best Costume and Sled, making designing your sled part of the fun and challenge. Sleds can be made from just about anything that will glide over the snow track. They can be as simple as an inner tube, elaborately colorful contraptions, or techy steam-punk inventions! Let your team’s imagination run wild! Many contestants dress for the occasion to raise team camaraderie.

Registration is open through February 1; just send an email to info@jumpfest, attention Brian to enter. The fee to enter is a modest $25 per team that includes free entrance to Jumpfest! Proceeds benefit SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs.

An added bonus is that Friday night of Jumpfest is an all-around great time in a beautiful alpine setting. An eighth of a mile of luminaries guide visitors to the site where there are two roaring bonfires and plenty of food and beverages to snack on. The target ski jumping and the Human Dog Sled Races are held under the lights, and both are professionally announced.! For more information about Jumpfest https://jumpfest.org

ABOUT SALISBURY WINTER SPORTS ASSOCIATION
The mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint the public with Nordic ski-jumping, cross –country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment. One way of fulfilling this mission is to host the annual Jumpfest Competition on Satre Hill to sustain and ski jumping in Salisbury, Connecticut and the Eastern United States.

JanetLeave a comment

Play Snow Snake @ IAIS January 20

The snow snake game was once one of the most popular winter games played in North America. Many Native American Communities played it from Maine to California, Oklahoma to Alaska. Today, this game is being revitalized across the country. On Saturday, January 20 at 1 p.m. at the Institute for American Indian Studies on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut, competitors can make their very own snow snake and then test their skills playing this traditional game.

Originally, snow snake was the traditional Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) game played during the winter. The sport has its history in hunting when long spears were thrown like snow snakes across the ice and snow to catch prey, without coming too close and scaring them away. Most often, snow snake was played when the men of the village returned from their annual winter hunting trip. It was – and still is – an exciting game of skill to the Haudenosaunee people and many other Native Communities.

Snow Snake!

Snow snakes are hand-made from a flattened piece of wood with a notch at one end that makes them easy to throw. Some sticks are carved in intricate patterns that resemble a snake and then coated with wax. Participants in this workshop will learn how to make their very own snow snake with Susan Scherf, Educator, and wood crafter at the Institute. This workshop includes materials and wood-burning kits. Participants are welcome to bring their whittling knife if they have one although it is not required

A friendly competition follows the snow snake workshop at the specially prepared snow snake track. The object of the game is to see how far participants can throw the snow snake along a snow trench. The person who throws the snake the farthest after a number of rounds is the winner! The snow snake game is a test of both skill and strength, and a good throw can go more than 100 yards.

This game is often referred to as a medicine game because it lifted the spirits of the people during the long winter months. The Institute for American Indian Studies is excited to share this game that is great for socializing, and remembering the traditions of generations of Native Americans who came before us.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. To register / The price of participation including materials is $20 for non-members and $10 for members. For more information call 860-868-0518, email events@iaismuseum.org, or click here to register online.

About the Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

JanetLeave a comment

How to Keep Kids Learning During Winter Break Winter in the Woodlands with IAIS

Winter break is exciting for kids. No school and lots of free time, but boredom can soon set in. If you want to beat boredom this year, try an innovative way to keep kids busy and away from the TV, movies, and video games by signing up for Winter in the Woodlands! The Institute for American Indian Studies is offering this special educational program that will include games, crafts, and activities inspired by Native American culture on Thursday, December 28, and Friday, December 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on both days.

Snow Snake!

The activities are planned for both indoors and outdoors on the grounds of the museum and will showcase the lifeways and lessons of local Native Americans. Each day the museum’s educational staff will offer an exciting roster of games, and craft projects. A special highlight is listening to Native American stories told by a professional storyteller. These stories share Native American history, customs, rituals, and legends through exciting narratives that have been passed down for generations. Often stories educate children about culture, morals, and values.

Story Time

Getting kids outside in the fresh air is a bonus to some of the traditional Native American games they will play like snow snake, snow boat and hoop and pole. The crafts that children will create indoors will be keepsakes that they can bring home. Just some of the crafts planned include making cornhusk dolls, buzzers, and beaded artwork. This two-day program is designed to teach children new skills and to ensure a smooth transition to going back to school.

This two-day program is best suited for children age six to twelve. Parents are invited to stay and participate adding another dimension to family fun and quality time. The price of participation is $40 per day for non-members and $30 per day for members of the museum. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. To register click here https://iaismuseum.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/14302 or email events@iaismuseum.org or call 860-868-0518.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres, the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

JanetLeave a comment

Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum Decorated for the Holidays

Don’t miss this opportunity to view the Torrington Historical Society’s Hotchkiss Fyler House while it’s still decorated for the holiday season. In December the Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum takes on a special ambiance as it is adorned with Christmas trees, vintage ornaments, antique toys, white lights, and greenery. Guided tours of the first and second floors will be available select days and evenings through December 30th.

Take a guided tour of one of Connecticut’s notable house museums, decorated for the Holiday season. The Hotchkiss Fyler house was built in 1900 and features original family furnishings, impressive woodwork, painted and stenciled walls, and collections of fine and decorative arts. During the holiday season, the house takes on a special ambiance when it is decorated with Christmas trees, vintage ornaments, wreaths, greenery, and white lights. Antique toys from the society’s collection will also be on display. Evening Tour tickets always sell out, so please register early! Walk-ins for daytime tours are welcome if space for the time slot is available.

Evening tours are available on December 20th at 5,6, and 7 pm. Daytime tours are being held on December 21,22,23,28,29 and 30 at 12 noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. For tickets https://www.eventbrite.com/o/torrington-historical-society-4663695939

JanetLeave a comment

Full Moon Walk with Institute for American Indian Studies December 26 @ 6

If you are looking for a fun and refreshing way to walk off some of the holiday goodies you have been eating then join the staff of the Institute for American Indian Studies for a Full Moon Walk on Tuesday, December 26 at 6 p.m. This year, even the moon is in a festive mood and will be fully illuminated on December 25th, 26th, and 27th. This full moon after the Winter Solstice takes the highest and longest path along the night sky. One of the names of the December full moon is “Long Night Moon” because it shines above the horizon longer than most full moons, making this walk extra special.

As participants walk along the beautifully wooded trails on the grounds of the museum under the glistening full moon they will learn what names Native Americans gave the December full moon and what it meant to them. Participants will learn how different Native American peoples traditionally used the monthly cycles of the moon and nature’s corresponding signs to track the seasons.

A highlight of this experience is to witness and celebrate firsthand the beauty of December’s full moon, as Native American communities have done for centuries. For example, the most common name for the December Moon, attributed to the Mohawks, is the Cold Moon which perfectly describes the cold days and nights during this time of year. The woodland walk ends at the newly restored 16th-century Algonkian village where a warm fire, hot chocolate, and stories will greet participants.

Inside the wigwam

Please dress appropriately for the weather, bring a flashlight, and wear sturdy footwear. If there are weather-related concerns on the day of the program, please contact the museum at 860-868-0518. The price of participation is $5 for IAIS Members and $10 for Non-Members. To register click here https://iaismuseum.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/14300

About The Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland acres, the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.

JanetLeave a comment