Fine wine may not be the first thing that jumps to mind when you think of Gilmanton, New Hampshire, but nestled in the cozy town you’ll find a truly charming and historic vineyard that you won’t want to miss.
Take a drive down route 140 to Meadow Pond Road, which winds along the lovely Shellcamp Pond, and find your way to Gilmanton Winery and Vineyards. With plenty of farms selling maple syrup and local meat and vegetables and offering tours, as well as excellent antique stores, you’ll want to make a day of it. Spending time in the Lakes Region? This is the perfect detour on your way, or a day trip for when you tire of canoeing.
The area surrounding Gilmanton is beautiful, with rolling hills and the lovely Crystal Lake.
Flickr/A Honan
Head down Meadow Pond Road and turn in to the vineyard, which is especially gorgeous in the fall.
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
Take a stroll around the property and admire the views.
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
Make sure to stop and make friends with the resident alpacas!
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
Head back to the farmhouse for a tasting. This building is home to some unique local history - in 1954, Grace Metalious wrote the popular novel “Peyton Place,” about small-town scandals, right here.
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
Hang out for a while on the home’s front porch to sample the vineyard’s unique wines. For fans of fall, they even have a pumpkin pie wine!
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
The vineyard’s owners are happy to prepare a picnic basket that you can take into the fields to enjoy the scenery while you munch and sip.
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
They also serve up a mean brunch, and frequently host special dinners and community events.
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
While fall and summer are the obvious choices for lazy days of wine tasting, stop by in the winter and you just might have the chance to take a sleigh ride!
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard is located at 528 Meadow Pond Road, Gilmanton, NH 03237. Check out their website for more information, and their Facebook page for plenty of pictures. If you’re looking to make an overnight trip out of it, consider staying here or here for some true New Hampshire charm.
Flickr/A Honan
Gilmanton Winery & Vineyard
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