Explore the Micro Wineries of Connecticut

L to R: Wine Tasting at Valor Wines and Wine Tasting at Small Batch Cellars

There are a few places in the Nutmeg State where wine is made and served, but no grapes are grown on the premises. These are called micro wineries. And, we have two of them, right in the town of North Haven; Valor Wines and Small Batch Cellars.

While each of these wineries is “hidden away” from the road in office park type settings, and you do not get greeted by vines or breathtaking views the way you might with the larger wineries and vineyards in Connecticut, you will be captivated by the beauty inside as you enter each of these special places.  They are both run by a small staff. Both have many types of wine offerings and host events. As the years have progressed, so has their seating and selection. Both provide inside AND outside seating (seasonally) and have interesting décor and one of a kind atmospheres that you won’t find in some of the larger wineries.

Here are some things to know about each:

Valor Wines

·       Owned and operated by Ray Mickey (and his adorable “assistant” Zelda)

·       Opened in 2021; winemaking family and heritage behind the winery

·       Not only does Valor Wines offer wine, but they offer wine fusions and cider

·       Expanded openings on Friday evening, Saturdays and Sundays (check website for most current information)

·       Live music on many weekends as well as fun events; visit their Instagram page or Facebook page to learn more

Small Batch Cellars

·       Owned and operated by Kristen Parsons, winemaker (she is also the winemaker at Chamard Vineyards) and Michael Annatone, Cellar Master

·       Opened this business in 2020 due to their combined passion for wine and for making it in a style all their own; read more about their inspiration here

·       They offer red, white, rose’ and sparkling wine

·       They have a wine club with three tiers of membership, each with its own perks

·       They offer private tours of the winery as well as special events tied to wine

There are too many amazing things to discover and learn about at each of these delightful small but mighty businesses, so I’m going to recommend that you take a trip and see for yourself. To get all the details on wines, events and hours, go to Valor Wines or Small Batch Cellars to help you plan your visit. As well as their websites, be sure to take a look at their social handles as well – see above for Valor Wines’ handles and visit Small Batch Cellars’ Instagram page and Facebook page. I promise you will be glad you made the trek to North Haven!