Jonathan Edwards Winery is a unique breed. Dubbing itself, “New England Charm, Napa Style,” the bi-coastal vineyard has been serving up glasses of the good stuff for nearly 20 years now.
Their story began with the simple desire to make great wine and enjoy life. The vineyard’s namesake, Jonathan Edwards, started his winemaking journey along with his parents, Karen and Robert Edwards back in 1999. Their journey lead them first to Napa Valley, and then on a quest for the perfect east coast location to complement their west coast operation.
When they stumbled upon the town of North Stonington, with its rich agricultural history, and subsequently the former Crosswoods Vineyards property, they knew it was meant to be. The property was once the Chester Maine Farm and dates back to the 1700s. In the year 2000, 48-acres were purchased by the Edwards family, which included the winery, the historic farmhouse, overgrown but fertile fields, and even the original “three-holer” outhouse.
Bi-coastal winemaking allows for a wider variety of wines ranging from crisp and fruity whites to deep dark reds. Among their varietals are a locally made Estate Chardonnay and Estate Cabernet Franc, as well as a Napa Chardonnay, Napa Merlot and Lodi Zinfandel, to name a few. They also have a unique dessert wine called DARK, which is a ruby port-style wine. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, this wine will be a big seller for the occasion, and there is even an event in its honor.
The DARK and Decadent event will be held on Friday, February 14 from 6:30-9 p.m., with tickets available in advance online for $25, or at the door for $30. The Valentine’s Day tradition includes a glass of your favorite JE wine, the DARK bar where you’ll sample current and libraried DARK, live music by Sarah Luann Thompson and Big Luxe Violin, and some of the area’s best artisanal chocolates to pair with your wine.
Other upcoming events at Jonathan Edwards include their Open Cellar event on March 27, where guests can venture a sneak peek in the cellar and sample soon to be released vintages. This is an opportunity to sample wines direct from the barrel, chat with the winemakers and pre-purchase your favorites before they are released to the general public. Come direct from work or before you head out to dinner to try some amazing new vintages and varietals scheduled for released later this year. The event is free, but RSVP is required.
One of the most beloved events at JE is their annual Lobster Bake, which takes place on Sunday, July 26 this year. This event always sells out, so get yourself in a summertime state of mind and purchase your tickets early!
Ticket price includes a full Lobster Dinner (Steamers & Mussels with drawn butter, Corn on the Cob, Red Bliss Potatoes, BBQ Chicken, 1 1/4lb Lobster and Watermelon for dessert), and dancing after with SUGAR! They’ll be a big white tent, vineyard views, casual family-style seating and a traditional clambake presentation from the experts. Is it summer yet??
Jonathan Edwards Winery is located at 74 Chester Maine Road in North Stonington, CT. They are open year-round, 7 days a week, with their tasting room open daily and complimentary tours offered in-season. They are also part of the CT wine trail and the Coastal Wine Trail, which gives visitors the chance to win great prizes just by sipping, so stop by for a visit soon. Happy trails!
