A Delightful Day Sampling Vermont’s Wines and Ciders
If you’re headed to Burlington and craving a taste of Vermont’s local flavors, this Small Group Wine & Cider Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience. For $359 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring three distinctive wineries, a renowned cider house, and a classic Vermont farm store – all with the comfort of door-to-door pickup and a small group of no more than six travelers. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in Vermont’s local produce without the stress of driving.
Two aspects we particularly love: First, the personalized attention that comes with such a limited group size, which creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere — like traveling with a group of friends. Second, the variety of stops that showcase both Vermont’s unique hybrid grape wines and craft ciders, complemented by farm-fresh products and stunning mountain views.
A possible consideration is that the tour is available only in spring and summer, so if you’re visiting during colder months, you might need to look for other options. Also, tasting fees and food are extra, which can add up, but they’re optional and well worth it for the experience.
This tour appeals most to those eager to enjoy Vermont’s authentic local flavors, wine lovers interested in hybrid grape varieties, and anyone who appreciates beautiful scenery coupled with good company. If you’re a curious traveler wanting to learn about Vermont’s growing wine and cider scene, this tour is a great fit.
Key Points
- Intimate Group Experience: Only 2 to 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
- Authentic Vermont Flavors: Visit three unique wineries, a historic farm, and a prominent cider house.
- Beautiful Scenery: Expect views of mountain ranges, blueberry fields, and tranquil ponds.
- Flexibility & Convenience: Door-to-door pickup in Burlington or nearby areas.
- Focus on Hybrid Grapes: Learn about Vermont’s climate-friendly grape varieties and wine-making efforts.
- Extra Costs: Tastings and food are additional, but optional and reasonably priced.
An In-Depth Look at the Vermont Wine & Cider Tour
Vermont might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of wine, but this tour showcases the state’s innovative approach to viticulture and cider-making. Led by guides with over a decade of experience, the tour offers a friendly, informative look into Vermont’s burgeoning wine scene, along with the country’s top craft ciders. It’s a day designed for those who want to indulge in local flavors without the hassle of planning or driving.
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The Itinerary: A Thoughtful Balance of Sight and Taste
Stop 1: Shelburne Vineyard
Our journey begins at Shelburne Vineyard, a pioneer in Vermont wine since the early 2000s. Here, you’ll find Vermont-grown wines and ciders in a barn-style tasting room with a lovely patio overlooking the vineyards. The emphasis on hybrid grape varieties—chosen for their ability to thrive in Vermont’s harsh climate—means you’re tasting wines crafted for the local environment, not just imported grapes pressed locally.
The vineyard’s goal is to elevate Vermont as a distinctive wine region, and it shows. The wine tasting typically lasts 45 minutes, where you can sample a spectrum from dry to sweet. We loved that local cheeses, jams, and cured meats are available to enhance your tasting experience. As one traveler put it, “The barn building and vineyard views make for a cozy, authentic setting.”
Stop 2: Charlotte Village Winery
Next, we visit Charlotte Village Winery, founded by fourth-generation Vermonters. They started with blueberry wines from their 10-acre farm, and today, produce a variety of fruit and grape wines. The tasting deck overlooks blueberry fields and the Adirondack Mountains—an idyllic setting for sipping wine and soaking in the scenery.
This family-oriented atmosphere adds a genuine, welcoming touch. The focus here is on the local fruit and fruit-based wines, which makes for a different experience from traditional vineyard tastings. The 45-minute stop here is a highlight for those interested in storytelling as well as flavor.
Stop 3: Dakin Farm
A quintessential Vermont experience isn’t complete without a visit to a farm store. Dakin Farm offers a glimpse into Vermont’s maple syrup heritage, with a short educational video about how syrup is made—boiling sap for over 58 years. You can explore their selection of pure Vermont maple syrup, cheeses, smoked meats, and specialty gifts.
We appreciate that this stop provides a taste of Vermont’s agricultural roots. It’s a chance to pick up some local goodies and learn about traditional maple production, which is a cornerstone of Vermont’s food identity.
Stop 4: Lincoln Peak Vineyard
The fourth stop introduces us to Lincoln Peak Vineyard, a vineyard specializing in hybrid grapes. The owners take great care to maintain the vineyard’s heritage, and you’ll see their unique approach to grape care and climate adaptation. The setting includes a cozy porch overlooking a pond, perfect for a relaxed, scenic tasting.
This stop emphasizes wines crafted with Vermont’s specific climate in mind, showcasing how local ingenuity produces quality wine. With a cheese and charcuterie plate added, this tasting becomes a complete sensory experience.
Stop 5: Woodchuck Cider House
Our final stop takes us to Woodchuck in Middlebury—arguably Vermont’s most famous cidery. Known for being the top-selling hard cider in the country in 2011, Woodchuck offers a lineup of over 20 ciders on tap. The large barn tasting room provides a laid-back setting to sample their core varieties and explore the range of flavors.
This capping experience is perfect for cider enthusiasts or those new to craft cider. It’s a fitting end to a day of tasting Vermont’s local beverages, with an overview of the state’s success in this booming industry.
Transportation & Group Size: Why It Matters
Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional guide means you can relax and focus on the experience. The small group size of 2-6 people fosters an intimate atmosphere, making conversations easier and the day more personalized. It’s also practical—no worries about navigating or parking.
The pick-up and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially if your hotel is in Burlington or nearby areas. This also means you won’t have to worry about designated drivers, making for a safer, more enjoyable outing.
Pricing & Value
At $359 per person, this tour might seem like a splurge, but consider what’s included: door-to-door transportation, a knowledgeable guide, visits to five key local attractions, and tastings at four stops. Tasting fees and cheese plates are extra but affordable, and the experience offers a glimpse into Vermont’s unique wine and cider industries that you might not get on your own.
Travelers have reported that the quality of the vineyards and ciders, along with the scenic views, make the price worthwhile. Plus, small groups mean more attention from guides, which enhances learning and enjoyment.
Additional Tips for Travelers
- Book in advance: The tour is popular and booked on average 12 days ahead, so plan early.
- Bring cash or cards: Tastings and food are extra, and some places may prefer cash.
- Wear comfortable shoes and layers: Some stops are outdoors or in scenic areas.
- Note the limitations: Alcohol consumption is only permitted on each premises, not in the vehicle.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for wine and cider lovers, especially those curious about Vermont’s hybrid grape wines and craft ciders. It’s equally suited for foodies interested in local maple and dairy products, as well as travelers seeking a relaxed, personal atmosphere away from crowded tours. If you enjoy scenic views paired with tasting authentic regional products, this tour checks all the boxes.
FAQ
Is the tour available year-round?
No, this tour runs only in spring and summer, when the weather is conducive to outdoor tastings and scenic views.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of six travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.
Are tastings included in the price?
Tastings are available at each stop, but fees are extra, generally around $40 total. Food and additional products are also purchased separately.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, especially since some stops involve outdoor areas or scenic vistas.
Can I bring snacks or drinks in the vehicle?
No, alcohol may only be consumed on the premises of each winery and cidery, and drinking in the van is prohibited.
Do I need to be a wine or cider expert?
Not at all. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the focus is on enjoyment and learning, not technical expertise.
To sum it up, this Small Group Wine & Cider Tour offers a well-curated taste of Vermont’s local beverage scene, combined with scenic beauty and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It is perfect for those who want to experience Vermont’s unique hybrid wines, craft ciders, and farm-fresh products without the stress of planning or driving. The small group size guarantees a more intimate encounter, and the variety of stops ensures you leave with a deeper appreciation for Vermont’s agricultural spirit.
Whether celebrating a special occasion, exploring Vermont’s food culture, or simply seeking a leisurely day among friends, this tour provides a meaningful, flavorful experience worth considering.