Bishop’s Orchards Winery ~ Guilford, Connecticut

August 27, 2009 by MTB

Marguerite Barrett
Contributing Writer

When pulling up to Bishop’s Orchards, don’t be put off by the fact that it looks more like a very large farm stand than it does a winery – that, in fact, is exactly what it is.

Six generations of the Bishop family have been farming in southeastern Connecticut since 1871. They currently have 320 acres under cultivation and produce apples, pears, peaches, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, asparagus and other assorted vegetables. They also produce a large selection of fruit wines and ciders.

The market was first established as a road-side stand in the early 1900′s and over the last century grew into the large farm market that today sits just minutes off of 1-95. The market features the Bishop’s Orchards produce as well as produce, meats, cheeses, jams, and other foods produced by local farmers.

Making your way through the main grocery/produce area towards the back of the store, you’ll find a large area devoted to the wines. A long tasting bar runs along the back wall, which features an impressive display of the Bishop’s Orchards wines. The Tasting Menu is extensive and includes all 12 of Bishop’s wines. All are fruit wines with 7 of the 12 featuring either apple or pear. Surprisingly the tasting is free; I believe Bishop’s is the only winery in Connecticut that still offers free tastings.

I know many people, myself included, are not big fans of fruit wines, and I don’t know that the Bishop’s Orchards wines will win converts, but they are all pleasant, not overly sweet wines. If in the area, the winery is definitely worth a stop. And if you’re planning to make a day of it – as I did – I recommend planning your stop at Bishop’s Orchards for the middle of the day. After you finish the tasting, you can cruise the market, pick up a freshly made, locally grown lunch or snack and have an impromptu tailgate party.