Although South County’s winemaking scene doesn’t get much attention, there are enough options you keep you busy during your vacation in the region. These wineries are pretty spread out and sit in different towns, so you might spend multiple days exploring them.
It’s worth noting that each local vineyard or winery has a unique atmosphere, as there’s a mix of urban tasting rooms and historic farms. As a result, you can check out different wine tasting experiences during your vacation.
Here’s a look at five wineries worth your time while vacationing in South County, Rhode Island.
Gooseneck Vineyards
The great thing about Gooseneck Vineyards is they have wine for every occasion. This winery, based in North Kingstown, features whites like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio, red wines like Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, and a couple of Roses. They also have blends and make a Prosecco.
This winery is currently in a transitional period, as they recently closed their downtown Wickford tasting room and are moving to a new location in North Kingstown. It’s worth noting that Gooseneck Vineyards sources its grapes from around the world and doesn’t have a local vineyard.
Still, the wine is popular, and their new tasting room should make Gooseneck Vineyards a popular spot in South County.
WinterHawk Vineyards
WinterHawk Vineyards is a new winery in West Kingston that sits near the shores of Yawgoo Pond. It comes from rustic beginnings, as the owners originally grew their vines and hosted a tasting room in their greenhouse, but the venture has expanded since those early days.
Today, WinterHawk Vineyards has three vineyards and is working on a brand new tasting facility. They currently offer four wine types – Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Malbec – and visiting this venue provides an authentic South County experience you won’t want to miss.
Shepherd’s Run
Perhaps the most distinctive spot for a wine tasting in South County is Shepherd’s Run, a facility set in a stone mansion built in 1933 that was once the summer home of Rush Sturges and Elizabeth Hazard Sturges. The grand building creates an attractive setting for trying some wine, as the architecture and grounds add to the experience.
As for the wine, the grapes are sourced from local, regional, and global vines, so every tasting has the potential to take you around the world. You can sample a wine flight or purchase wine by the glass or bottle upon arrival, and it’s possible to bring food with you to enjoy on the grounds.
You can make an afternoon of your time at Shepherd’s Run, so plan ahead and make a reservation before visiting this gem sitting just outside of downtown Wakefield-Peacedale.
Langworthy Vineyards
Langworthy Vineyards is a short drive from Misquamicut State Beach, so it’s in an incredibly convenient location if you book a vacation rental near the ocean.
The winery sits on a farm built in 1875 on the site of Governor Samuel Ward’s homestead, so there’s historical significance to this location. You can take a tour of the winery and grounds with a reservation, allowing you to explore some history while enjoying your wine.
As for the wine, Langworthy Vineyards makes many different varieties, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling. It’s possible to have a tasting or enjoy a glass of wine on the scenic porch overlooking the vineyards when you visit this spot, and the history alone makes it well worth checking out.
Tapped Apple
Downtown Westerly has an urban winery called the Tapped Apple that makes fruit wines and cider. All products are made with apples grown at Sunset Orchards in North Scituate, Rhode Island, and you can order by the glass or enjoy a flight. In addition, growlers and bottles are available to enjoy back at your vacation rental.
Wine available at the Tapped Apple includes Watch Hill White, Respect the Elder, Apple Ginger, Cerise Noir, and Apple Pie.
This venue’s High Street location makes it the perfect place to start a night on the town in downtown Westerly.
Make the Most of Your South County Vacation
You might not be coming to South County for the wine, but you’re sure to leave impressed by the flavor and variety found in these local products. Your vacation rental is never far from a winery, and checking out these beautiful spots is sure to add to your experience.
Get out there and see as much of South County as possible on your next vacation to the area and make the most of your holiday in Rhode Island’s most scenic locations.