If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day exploring Vermont’s burgeoning wine and cider scene, this Small Group Wine & Cider Tour offers an authentic taste of the Green Mountain State. Guided by Vermontology Guided Tours, this 6-hour adventure promises a relaxed, personal experience with up to six fellow enthusiasts, making it feel more like a day out with friends than a traditional tour.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the intimate size allows for personalized attention and a leisurely pace. Second, it covers a well-curated selection of stops, from vineyards producing innovative hybrid wines to a historic cider house. Third, it includes local attractions like Dakin Farm’s maple syrup, giving a true Vermont flavor.
A potential consideration? The tour is limited to spring and summer, so it’s best suited for warm-weather travelers. Also, tasting fees and food are extra, so you’ll want to budget a bit more for those added treats.
This experience suits anyone looking for a fun, educational day immersed in Vermont’s unique alcohol scene—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, bonding with friends, or simply seeking a relaxed way to enjoy the region’s flavors.
Good To Know
- Intimate Group Size: With a maximum of six guests, the tour offers a tailored experience.
- Diverse Stops: From vineyards to a cider house and a farm store, there’s a good variety of local highlights.
- Educational & Tasty: Learn about Vermont’s hybrid grape varieties and maple syrup production while sampling delicious beverages.
- Flexible & Convenient: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off and a professional guide, simplifying logistics.
- Cost & Extras: Tour price is $359 per person, excluding tasting fees and food, which are available for purchase.
- Seasonal Availability: Offered only in spring and summer, ideal for warm-weather explorations.
An In-Depth Look at the Vermont Small Group Wine & Cider Tour
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Starting Off at Shelburne Vineyard
The tour kicks off at Shelburne Vineyard, a pioneer in Vermont’s wine scene. Here, you’ll find a cozy barn-style tasting room with views of the surrounding vineyard—an excellent setting for your first sip. Vermont-grown grapes and ciders are showcased here, with options spanning dry to sweet. Since the vineyard has been advocating for Vermont wines for over two decades, you’ll get a sense of their passion for elevating the region’s reputation.
The tasting experience is complemented by the opportunity to enjoy local cheeses, charcuterie, jams, and crackers—packaged as optional add-ons. This sets the tone for the day: tasting Vermont’s homegrown products in a relaxed setting. According to reviews, guests appreciated the scenic patio seating and the chance to sample a variety of local wines without feeling rushed.
What to expect: A 45-minute stop with free admission, where you’ll learn about Vermont’s hybrid grape varieties and get your first taste of local wines and ciders.
Visiting Charlotte Village Winery
Next, the tour heads to Charlotte Village Winery, established in 2001 by fourth-generation Vermonters. What makes this stop special is its origins with blueberry wines from a 10-acre field—an unusual feature that still influences their offerings today. You’ll enjoy sampling fruits and grape wines while overlooking expansive blueberry fields and the Adirondack Mountains—an idyllic backdrop for wine tasting.
Guests often comment on the warm, family-oriented atmosphere, which makes the experience feel personal rather than commercial. You might find the wines quite approachable, especially if you prefer fruitier or semi-sweet options. The 45-minute stay here offers a glimpse into Vermont’s innovative approach to winemaking—adapting to the state’s climate with hybrid grapes and local fruits.
Dakin Farm: A Taste of Vermont’s Maple Heritage
No Vermont trip is complete without experiencing Dakin Farm, a family-owned operation with a history spanning over 58 years of maple syrup production. Here, you’ll explore their sugarhouse and learn about how Vermont’s iconic syrup is made through a short educational video. Most guests value this stop not only for the tasting but also for the chance to browse artisanal cheeses, smoked meats, and gifts.
The 30-minute visit offers a break from wine and cider tasting, with plenty of opportunity to purchase local products. Reviewers have highlighted the quality of Dakin’s maple syrup and the educational aspect of the visit, which adds depth to the experience.
Lincoln Peak Vineyard: Hybrid Grapes & Scenic Views
The trip then takes you to Lincoln Peak Vineyard, which specializes in hybrid grapes suited to Vermont’s climate. Their vines are meticulously cared for, and the vineyard’s location offers lovely views of a pond and surrounding landscape. The owners’ commitment to preserving vineyard heritage shines through, resulting in wines that are both unique and well-crafted.
Guests often love the combination of tasting wines and enjoying the peaceful scenery. The 45-minute stop includes a tasting paired with a cheese and charcuterie plate, making it a perfect way to relax and savor Vermont’s terroir. Reviewers note that the wines here are quite good, especially given Vermont’s challenging growing conditions.
Final Stop at Woodchuck Cider House
The tour wraps up at Woodchuck Hard Cider in Middlebury, a brand that became the top-selling hard cider in the U.S. in 2011. Their barn-style tasting room is charming and spacious, with 20 ciders on tap for you to sample. It’s the perfect way to end a cider-focused day, especially if you’re a cider enthusiast.
Guests frequently mention the friendly staff, the variety of ciders, and the relaxed atmosphere. This stop offers a good mix of traditional apple ciders and more innovative flavors, rounding out the day’s tasting adventures.
Practical Details & What You’ll Get
This tour includes air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it straightforward to relax and focus on tasting. The guide, a knowledgeable local, not only shares insights into each stop but also ensures the day runs smoothly.
The cost, $359 per person, covers the transportation and guided experience but not the tasting fees or food, which are paid separately—roughly $40 for tastings and $15-$20 for cheese plates. This allows you to customize your experience, choosing what you want to indulge in.
The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace, ideal for those who prefer intimate settings over large tours. It also means you’ll have plenty of time for questions and photos at each stop.
The Experience & What It Means for Travelers
This tour is particularly valuable for those eager to explore Vermont’s less obvious wine and cider scene. It’s perfect for foodies, couples, or friends looking for a fun, educational day that combines tasting with sightseeing. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Vermont’s ingenuity—using hybrid grapes, local fruits, and traditional methods—highlighting the region’s adaptive spirit.
The inclusion of a farm visit and Vermont’s iconic maple syrup provides a well-rounded taste of local culture. Plus, the scenic locations and relaxed pace make it suitable for all ages—ideal for those who prefer a leisurely, no-rush experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who appreciates small, personal tours and values learning about local products, this is a winner. It’s great for wine and cider lovers who want to try a variety of Vermont-made beverages without feeling overwhelmed. If you’re traveling with a group that enjoys a casual, scenic, and tasty day out, this tour hits all those marks.
However, if you’re an avid collector of high-end wines or prefer extensive tastings, you might find the tasting fees add up, or wish for longer at each stop. But for a focused, fun day exploring Vermont’s drinkable treasures, this tour offers excellent value.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off from hotels in the Burlington, South Burlington, or Killington areas, making it a super convenient experience.
How many people are in the tour group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized atmosphere.
What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:30 am and concluding with return to your original pickup location.
Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting fees are paid separately (around $40 total). Food such as cheese plates are also purchased separately.
Do I need any prior experience or knowledge?
Not at all. The guide provides insights and answers during the stops, making it suitable for all levels of familiarity with wine and cider.
Can I bring my own drinks in the van?
No, alcohol consumption in the tour van is strictly prohibited. Tastings are only for on-site at each winery or cidery.
Is this tour suitable in colder months?
No, it’s only offered in spring and summer, when the weather allows for outdoor vineyard visits and patio tastings.
Final Thoughts
This Small Group Wine & Cider Tour in Vermont offers a relaxed, personalized way to experience the state’s unique beverage scene. The combination of scenic views, authentic local products, and intimate group size makes it a standout option for anyone wanting to indulge while learning about Vermont’s innovative approach to winemaking and cider production.
The tour’s focus on quality, local flavor, and authentic experiences ensures you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for Vermont’s craftsmanship—plus plenty of delicious souvenirs to take home. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a leisurely, fun-filled day with expert guidance.
If you’re after a taste of Vermont’s best wines, ciders, and local flavors—all in a comfy, small-group setting—this tour should be high on your list.