Newport's Vineyards - Beautiful Rolling Hills, Manicured Grape Vines and a Storied Past
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Vineyards are perhaps one of the last things that come to mind when people think of Newport, but it really should be in their top things to experience when they visit. Local Italian and Portuguese immigrants have long known the fruitfulness of the land in and around Newport, and have grown and harvested wine grapes for generations. The area's proximity to the ocean provides a temperate climate that may not see a frost until after Thanksgiving each year, allowing for a relatively long growing season for New England. This area which is kept warm by the nearby ocean waters is enough to extend its growing season long beyond that of the inland regions.
As it Turns Out, Newport is a Lot Like France
Everyone knows how good French wine is, but did you know Newport's microclimate very closely mimics that of the famous Loire Valley in France? As a result, you're going to experience wines that have won awards all over the world, not just in the area. One of the area's vineyards, Sakonnet Vineyards, is actually celebrating its 50th anniversary this year - a real testament to the quality and types of wines that are now produced in the region. When you consider that the area has a concentration of vineyards more likely found in famous places like Napa or Sonoma Valley, you begin to understand the intrinisic value of the land and climate which makes this area so special for growing grapes and making wine.
Not Just Tours and Tastings
Fall harvest is certainly a great time to visit Newport's vineyards, but in recent years they've grown to be year-round destinations in and of themselves. Newport Vineyards features a restaurant, gift shop, and even an outdoor patio featuring live music during the warmer months of the year. They even encourage you to bring a blanket and chairs to spread out on their lawn overlooking the vineyard to enjoy your beverages, play games and listen to a great selection of bands all season. During the colder months, they feature themed events all winter long to entertain wine lovers and event seekers alike. Greenvale Vineyards has food trucks all season serving up delicious treats and features top events like their Harvest Festival each fall. You could easily spend a good portion of the day at any vineyard.
Give Yourself Enough Time to Explore
Please don't think that a visit to an area vineyard means an hour or two for a tour and tasting. There are so many things going on, and these vineyards are quite large, begging to be explored on foot. It can take hours just to walk the property if you care to. With their locations all along Aquidneck Island and neighboring Little Compton, these vineyards feature hundreds of acres and sweeping ocean views too!
As Always, Let Your Interests Guide Your Visits
Whether you want to spend an afternoon walking amongst thousands of grape vines overlooking the ocean, or you want to relax next to an old wine barrel and just take in the view, Newport's vineyards offer a storybook backdrop for your next wine (or beer) enthusiast trip.
