On this sixth installation of Passport to Connecticut Wineries, Sophie and Cecelia hit the trail, this time with Phyllis in tow. Standard disclaimers apply: we are not a professional wine connoisseurs—we’re just enjoying local wines.

On Saturday, September 26, 2009, we visited Hopkins Vineyard and Jones Winery.

Hopkins Vineyard

25 Hopkins Road, New Preston, CT 06777 (860) 868-7954

Johanna was our server. Tastings are $6 and include seven of 10 wines and the glass.

The duet 2008 was a blend of Chardonnay and Vidal Blanc and was light and crisp. The Vineyard Reserve 2007 was Pinot Grigio-like. The Lady rose 2008 didn’t leave an impression at all. The Cabernet Franc 2008 was kind of flat. Sachem’s Picnic was not too sweet and actually quite pleasant. The Westwind 2008 was a Riesling-like white and was pleasant enough. The Red Barn Red was my favorite of the tasting and would probably go with just about anything.

Jones Winery

606 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Shelton, CT 06484 (203) 929-8425

Jim was our server. Tastings are $6 and include six of 12 wines and the glass.

The Stonewall White was a dry white from Seyval Blanc and Cayuga White grapes. Not bad, not special. The Pinot Gris 2008 was really nice. The Pure Rosé was said to be “serious” and did not have much of a finish. Seriously. The estate grown Cabernet Franc 2007 was worth the trip. The Ripton Red was okay, but had too much California. The Raspberry Rhapsody would have been nice for breakfast.

Visit the recap collection page for a menu of sorts…