While a typical New England cornucopia is filled with more apples, pumpkins and blueberries than grapes, the region hosts many purveyors of delicious wines.
Standouts among area wineries, often situated in quintessential New England settings, mingle tastings and tours with great event spaces.
"When you visit Mill River Winery, you are stepping into a piece of New England history," says Donna Martin, owner and winemaker.
The winery, which is housed in a renovated 1890s cider mill and is located on the scenic North Shore of Boston, makes wines using both local grapes and those from global wine regions.
"Sample our wines and enjoy a selection of imported cheeses in a casual and relaxing setting," Martin says, citing popular wines including Naked Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Plum Island White and Plum Island Red.
She adds visiting groups enjoy "Dirt to Bottle" tours, browsing the on-site gift shop, where they'll find many locally produced goods, and sampling wines in the tasting room, which is also available for corporate functions.
The tasting room and gift store at Flag Hill Winery is a popular spot in Lee, N.H., where attendees can taste red, white, fruit and port wines, and shop for items ranging from spices and cheese boards to wine glass charms and cocktail napkins.
Flag Hill is also available for group events. On-site facilities include an indoor dining room and an outdoor event tent.
And at Jonathan Edwards Winery in North Stonington, Conn., New England charm meets Napa style, according to Jon Edwards, owner.
"We have a pastoral setting where visitors can experience a state-of-art winery with an unmatched rustic simplicity and elegance," he says, adding there are tours daily at noon.
The winery sports an on-site tasting room, as well as facilities for group events, including the barrel room for smaller gatherings and an outdoor tented area on the lawn for larger parties.
