CT Vineyard Named Among Nation's Best Wine Tasting Rooms

NEWTOWN, CT — Aquila's Nest Vineyards has earned national recognition after being nominated for USA Today's 2026 10Best Readers' Choice Award for Best Wine Tasting Room.

The Sandy Hook vineyard is one of 20 wine tasting rooms nationwide selected by a panel of travel and wine experts for this year's competition and is the only New England vineyard to receive a nomination.

According to USA Today, Aquila's Nest was recognized for its Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere and astronomy-themed wines. The vineyard's wines are named after women from ancient history and mythology and feature constellation-themed labels.

Guests can also enjoy estate-grown wines, a 2,000-square-foot tasting room, fire pits and seasonal experiences.

Public voting is open through July 20, with the final rankings scheduled to be announced July 29. Readers can cast one vote per day through the USA Today 10Best website.

"We're proud to be among the nominees," the winery said in an Instagram post. "If you've enjoyed a glass of wine with us, attended an event, celebrated a special occasion or simply made memories overlooking the vineyard, we would be incredibly grateful for your vote."

Aquila's Nest, located at 56 Pole Bridge Road in Sandy Hook, opened in 2020.