New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is a hidden gem for wine and beer enthusiasts, offering a delightful array of wineries and breweries that are perfect for a leisurely day of tasting and exploration. Below, we highlight six must-visit establishments, each with its own unique character and flavors. Plus, we’ll share some local cheese pairings that will elevate your tasting experience.
1. Sap House Meadery: A Taste of Tradition
Ossipee, NH | 44 minutes from Top of the Ridge
Sap House Meadery is renowned for its dedication to the ancient art of mead production. Located in a cozy setting, this meadery offers guided tours that provide an in-depth look at how they create their signature honey wines. After learning about the process, indulge in a tasting session where you can sample a variety of meads, each with its own distinct flavor profile. Pair your mead with a rich, creamy cheese from a local New Hampshire cheesemaker to enhance the experience.
2. Twin Barns Brewing Company: A Lively Outdoor Retreat
Meredith, NH | 43 minutes from Top of the Ridge
The Twin Barns Brewing Company, established in July 2019, set out with one goal: to bring you the tastiest handcrafted beer in the Lakes Region! Located near Lake Winnipesaukee inside an antique barn from the 1850s, this vibrant outdoor space features locally crafted beers, food trucks, and games.
3. Seven Birches Winery: Modern Winemaking in the White Mountains
Lincoln, NH | 1 hour from Top of the Ridge
Nestled in the scenic White Mountains, Seven Birches Winery offers a contemporary approach to winemaking. Their diverse selection of wines is crafted with both traditional and innovative techniques, ensuring there’s something for everyone. For those looking to deepen their appreciation of winemaking, Seven Birches offers an informal “Meet the Winemakers” winery tour on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Led by one of their skilled winemakers, this tour takes you on a deep dive into the process behind each wine, with opportunities to sample some special varieties.
4. Hermit Woods Winery: A Journey Through History
Meredith, NH | 46 minutes from Top of the Ridge
Hermit Woods Winery is a destination that combines history with flavor. Known for its inviting tasting room and guided tasting tours, this winery offers guests an opportunity to learn about the rich history behind each bottle. Their wines, made from locally sourced fruits and berries, offer a refreshing departure from traditional grape wines.
5. Haunting Whispers: Sips with a View
Danbury, NH | 1 hour 10 minutes from Top of the Ridge
Located on a tranquil family-owned property, Haunting Whispers Vineyard & Spirits is as much about the experience as it is about the wine. Here, you can enjoy wines and spirits while taking in breathtaking views of the lake and mountains. The peaceful setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon.
6. Dam Brewhouse: Community and Craftsmanship
Campton, NH | 1 hour 5 minutes from Top of the Ridge
Inspired by the communal gathering spaces of the pre-prohibition era, Dam Brewhouse offers a warm and welcoming environment to enjoy a variety of unique and flavorful beers. When you enter the Dam Brewhouse, you’re treated like family. Their new tasting room is the perfect place to sample their creations, each inspired by a dedication to craftsmanship and quality. And if you’re feeling musical, pick up the house guitar and share a song or two with fellow patrons.
Pairing with Local Cheeses: A Perfect Match
No visit to these exceptional wineries and breweries would be complete without sampling some of the finest cheeses that New Hampshire has to offer. The state is home to a variety of artisan cheesemakers, each producing unique and flavorful cheeses that pair beautifully with the wines and beers of the Lakes Region. Whether you’re enjoying a sweet mead, a crisp wine, or a hearty beer, there’s a cheese that will perfectly complement your drink. For more information about local cheeses, visit the NH Cheesemakers Guild. For true cheese lovers, consider planning your trip around the New Hampshire Wine and Cheese Trails.
Plan Your Stay at Top of the Ridge Farm Bed and Breakfast
After a day of exploring the best wineries and breweries the Lakes Region has to offer, retreat to the comfort and charm of Top of the Ridge Farm Bed and Breakfast. Nestled in the heart of the region, our bed and breakfast provides the perfect home base for your tasting adventures. Book your stay with us and enjoy comfortable accommodations before setting out on another day of discovery. We look forward to welcoming you!
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