The Ocean State is pretty small — the smallest state in the entire country, actually — and yet Rhode Island Wineries offer no shortage of big flavors. Here, you’ll find picturesque coastal vineyards and historic estates, all displaying their own unique expression of the maritime influence and the rich terrier Rhode Island has to offer.
From estate grown wines found in seaside communities, to small family owned and operated vineyards and wineries, tucked away in quintessential New England villages, wine tastings may be one of the most underrated ways to explore the Ocean State.
Best Rhode Island Wineries
Whether you’re here for an unforgettable summer vacation, or you’re playing tourist in your own backyard, you won’t want to miss this guide to the best wineries in Rhode Island! You’ll be amazed at just how much this little state has to offer!
>> This is a guest post by Allie Lewis, a lifelong Rhode Islander who loves all things wine and travel! Check her out on Instagram @aelewis_13 <<
Shepherd’s Run
If you’re looking for great wines and unbelievable ambiance, you’d be hard pressed to do better than Shepherd’s Run. This boutique winery and hotel opened its doors several years ago, and has been an incredible addition to the local community.
For those of you who enjoy dry wines, you won’t want to miss Shepherd’s Run! The Rose Merlot gets rave reviews, but personally, the Pinot Noir is my favorite. When you visit, you can enjoy a flight of wine, or even order by the glass or by the bottle with family and friends.
Come for the great wine, stay for the incredible atmosphere, stunning views, and delicious small bites!
Newport Vineyards
If you’re visiting Rhode Island for the first time, you’ll definitely want to spend at least a day in Newport! Come explore Gilded Age Mansions, like The Breakers, found along the breathtaking Cliff Walk, or discover Aquidneck Island by sailboat, but be sure to finish the day at Newport Vineyards.
They have great flight offerings, but I highly encourage spending a few dollars extra and grabbing a glass of dessert wine to finish. The Vidal Ice Wine is absolute perfection.
Better yet, if you can score a reservation, the dinner menu here is incredible!
Greenvale Vineyards
Found on Aquidneck Island only a few minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Newport, Greenvale Vineyards is a true gem. You’ll be blown away by their exceptional estate-grown wines and the breathtaking views of the Sakonnet River.
If you come during the weekend, there’ll be plenty of delicious, artisanal snacks available for purchase in the tasting room, and maybe even a food truck or two on site. I personally recommend coming you come on a week day, though, since you have the option of bringing your own food with you. If you’re not sure what to bring, I have a few suggestions when it comes to local restaurants.
Plus, if you come on a Thursday or Friday, you can get a tour of this gorgeous vineyard and an intimate, behind the scenes look at what makes these wines so special.
Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards
If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, come explore New England’s oldest winery in Little Compton. For more than 40 years, Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard has been producing award-winning wines. Picked by hand and barrel-aged in French, Hungarian, Russian and American oak, a tasting here absolutely deserves to be on your Rhode Island itinerary.
While Rhode Island’s growing season may be short, the softness and finesse you’ll find in these award-winning wines are striking. It’s easy to see how their success helped to pave the way for the Ocean State’s wine industry.
Diamond Hill Vineyards
I passed by Diamond Hill Vineyards nearly every day on my way to school as a kid, so getting to come back as an adult for a tasting was a bit of a surreal experience. When you come, prepare to be charmed by its down-to-earth and laid back atmosphere. Come for a tasting, a glass, or even to split a bottle amongst friends.
It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy, sunny afternoon while lounging in their gorgeous gardens. Or you can hide out under the shade of this 220 year old vineyard home’s sprawling porch. Open from Thursday through Sundays, Diamond Hill Vineyards offers an assortment of grape and fruit wines – all made on-site in small batches by winemaker Allen Berntson.
Nickle Creek Vineyard
While Newport, Narragansett, and Providence are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Rhode Island, the northern end of the state isn’t without its charms. If you find yourself in this end of the state, check out Nickle Creek Vineyard. It’s a small, family-owned winery in Foster, that focuses on small-scale winemaking.
They’re only open during the warmer months on weekends, but if you’re a dog-lover, I recommend checking them out. Unfortunately, you can’t bring your four-legged companion with you, but for every bottle of Two Dog White sold, a portion of the proceeds goes to a local canine charity.
Mulberry Vineyards
Speaking of charm, Chepachet Village is brimming with history – from antique shops and country stores – all found on the National Register of Historic Places. Anyone visiting this quintessential New England village should also pay a visit to Mulberry Vineyards.
It’s a small, family owned winery not far from downtown, full of rustic and historical roots. and the vineyard site itself is also a historical homestead. They’re only open on weekends, but often have live music to enjoy alongside your tasting.
Verde Vineyards
This vineyard is also a bit a ride from the beaches, tucked away in Johnston, but if the weather cooperates, you’ll find tranquility at this quaint vineyard. They’re only open Friday through Sunday, but if you find your way here, I recommend the Petite Pearl. It’s a deep red wine with aromas of dark fruit – think plums and blackberries – with notes of spices like nutmeg, clove, and burnt orange peel.
Come lounge in an adirondack chair, sip some delicious wines, and enjoy the serene ambiance.
Leyden Farm Vineyard & Winery
This small winery in West Greenwich is best known for its relaxed atmosphere and fruit-forward wines, like Samson’s Wildberry and Lazy Watermelon. They host a number of events during the summer, as well, like clambakes and barbeques.
About the Guest Author
Allie Lewis
Allie Lewis is a life long Rhode Islander, and an enthusiast of all things wine and travel. She first discovered her passion for wine during a happenstance tasting in Santorini, and it’s been love from first sip.
When she’s not traveling or going to wine tastings, you can usually find her writing, spending time with friends and family, or enjoying Rhode Island’s stunning coastline.
For more Ocean State recommendations, find her on Instagram @aelewis_13
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rhode Island known for wine?
There’s a lot of things Rhode Island is known for — stunning coastlines and beaches, coffee milk, clam cakes and steemers — but the Ocean State isn’t well known for its wine. That’s not to say that our wines are bad, though! In fact, we have some surprisingly tasty terroir and a handful of award winning wineries. You might come here for the ocean, but you’ll definitely enjoy the wine while you’re here!
Which US state has the most wineries?
Unsurprisingly, California has the most wineries in the country! If you’re headed out to the West Coast, be sure to check out Paige’s fantastic guides to Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, and beyond!
Which state has the best wineries?
I might be a little biased, but some of my favorite wine recommendations have all come from Paige, and they’ve all come from California! I will say, though, that Newport Vineyards’ Vidal Ice Wine is one of my absolute favorite bottles of all time. If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth like me, you’re going to fall in love with this delicious dessert wine!
Other Wine Travel Guides You’ll Love
Taste the Ocean State: Best Restaurants in Rhode Island
