Hopkins Vineyard in New Preston, Connecticut: A Charming Destination for Wine Lovers This Winter

Hopkins Vineyard sits on a beautiful hillside overlooking Lake Waramaug in New Preston, Connecticut. This picturesque winery offers visitors a chance to enjoy fine wines while taking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state. The vineyard’s location in one of Connecticut’s most scenic areas makes it a perfect destination for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

You’ll find much more than just wine tasting at Hopkins Vineyard, with year-round events including wine festivals, special tastings, and live entertainment. The vineyard features a welcoming tasting room and gift shop downstairs, plus an upstairs area where you can relax with a glass of wine and a cheese platter while enjoying the stunning views. Despite being worth the drive from anywhere in Connecticut, Hopkins maintains a friendly, accessible atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back season after season.

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Hopkins Vineyard

Hopkins Vineyard is a historic National Bicentennial farm that has been owned and operated by the Hopkins Family for over 235 years. This beautiful winery sits on a sprawling property in Warren, Connecticut, offering visitors a taste of tradition and excellence.

When you visit Hopkins Vineyard, you’ll be treated like part of their extended family. The staff prides themselves on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with friendliness and fun for everyone who stops by.

The vineyard has established itself as a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts in Connecticut. You can sample their carefully crafted wines while enjoying the picturesque surroundings that have been lovingly maintained for generations.

Their commitment to quality and hospitality shows in everything they do. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a pleasant afternoon outing, Hopkins Vineyard offers an authentic experience that connects you to Connecticut’s agricultural heritage.

Rating: 4.7 (307 reviews)
Location: 25 Hopkins Rd, Warren, CT 06777
Contact: (860) 868-7954
Website: Visit Website

History of Hopkins Vineyard

Hopkins Vineyard has deep roots in Connecticut’s agricultural heritage, starting as a family farm in the 18th century before evolving into one of the state’s most cherished wineries.

Early Beginnings

The story of Hopkins Vineyard begins in 1787 when the Hopkins family first acquired the 100-acre property on the shores of Lake Waramaug. For nearly two centuries, the land served as a traditional family farm. The beautiful rolling hills and fertile soil made it ideal for agriculture.

In 1956, William L. Hopkins took over the family dairy farm, continuing the agricultural tradition. The property’s rich history earned it recognition as a National Bicentennial Farm, highlighting its significance in Connecticut’s agricultural heritage.

The farm’s picturesque location in the Litchfield Hills of western Connecticut provided not just beauty but also the perfect conditions for what would later become its most famous crop.

Winemaking Traditions

A significant transformation occurred in 1979 when William and Judith Hopkins decided to pivot from dairy farming to winemaking. They sold their dairy herd and filed for a farm winery permit, marking the beginning of Hopkins Vineyard as you know it today.

That same year, they planted their first grapevines and converted their 19th-century barn into a winery. This bold move transformed the historic family farm into a pioneering Connecticut vineyard.

Today, Hopkins Vineyard spans 35 acres and is known for producing award-winning wines. When you visit, you’re experiencing a place that has successfully blended centuries of farming tradition with modern winemaking techniques.

The vineyard hosts special events in May and September, allowing you to connect with its rich heritage while enjoying the fruits of generations of Hopkins family stewardship.

Exploring the Scenic Vineyard

Hopkins Vineyard offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in stunning natural beauty while learning about winemaking. The property combines historic charm with breathtaking views that change with the seasons.

Guided Tours

When you visit Hopkins Vineyard, you can join informative tours that take you through the 35-acre property. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the winemaking process from grape to glass. You’ll learn about the different grape varieties grown on this historic farm that has been in the Hopkins family for over 235 years!

Tours showcase the vineyard’s sustainable growing practices. You’ll see firsthand how the unique climate of the western Connecticut highlands contributes to their award-winning wines.

Tours typically last about 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore. The friendly staff welcomes you as part of their long tradition of hospitality.

Landscape and Views

The vineyard sits high above Lake Waramaug in the Litchfield Hills, offering some of Connecticut’s most spectacular views. As you wander the grounds, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of neatly arranged grapevines against the backdrop of the shimmering lake.

The tasting area downstairs opens to an upstairs space with tables where you can relax with a glass of wine. The outdoor seating areas provide the perfect spot to enjoy a cheese platter while taking in the panoramic scenery.

Fall visits are especially popular when the surrounding hills burst with vibrant autumn colors. Spring brings lush greenery and flowering vines. No matter when you visit, the picturesque setting makes Hopkins Vineyard a photographer’s dream.