Passport to CT Wine Country program launches with three new locations

The 2026 Passport to Connecticut Wine Country program officially begins Friday, May 1, offering visitors the opportunity to visit 37 farm wineries across the state for a chance to win a share of $15,000 in prizes.

The seasonal program, which runs through Dec. 31, 2026, encourages residents and tourists to explore Connecticut’s agricultural landscape. This year’s lineup features three new participating producers: Ox & Oak Vineyard in Lebanon, Spring Hill Vineyards in New Preston, and Long View Ciderhouse in Southington.

“There’s nothing like summer in Connecticut! And the Passport to CT Wine Country is exactly what you need to help discover all our state has to offer,” said Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz.

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To participate, visitors can use a free printed booklet or a mobile app to collect stamps at each location. For the first time, the physical booklets include a QR code for optional registration, intended to streamline the entry process for end-of-season drawings. Participants can earn stamps by scanning an onsite QR code, using the mobile app, or receiving a physical mark in their booklets.

“The Passport to CT Wine Country remains one of the most engaging ways to experience Connecticut agriculture,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “Each visit supports growers and makers, encourages travel across the state, and builds a connection to the farms behind these beverages.”

The CT Farm Wine Development Council has set three prize categories based on the number of stamps collected: Taster (12+ stamps), Sommelier (18+ stamps), and Winemaker (35+ stamps). Prize drawings are scheduled to take place by Jan. 31, 2027.

Connecticut currently hosts more than 45 licensed farm wineries. By state law, these wineries must use at least 25% Connecticut Grown fruit in their production. Many participants also adhere to a voluntary designation indicating that 51% or more of their ingredients are grown within the state.

More information on the program and a full list of participating wineries can be found at ctwinecountry.com.

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May events at Fairfield Theatre Company

5/1 – The Kingston Trio
5/2 – Eric Andersen and Jon Pousette – Dart
5/3 – The Little Things That Run the World
5/5 – Bre Kennedy
5/6 – Howie Day
5/8 – A Night of Jazz
5/9 – Gary Louris
5/10 – Grahame Lesh & Friends
5/12 – The Lone Bellow
5/14 – Andrew Duhon
5/16 – Graham Parker
5/16 – Buckethead
5/17 – FTC Short Film Festival
5/18 – Second Wind
5/20 – Joanna Chang
5/21 – Arrival from Sweden
5/22 – Als Fest
5/22 – Drayton Farley
5/23 – Pangea Worldbeat
5/27 – Suzy Bugguss
5/28 – Steve Forbert
5/29 – Adrenalize: Def Leppard Tribute
5/30 – Goodnight Moonshine

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May events at PeoplesBank Arena

5/24 – Journey, click here to purchase tickets
5/29 -Don Toliver, click here to purchase tickets
5/30 – LA Sparks vs Connecticut Sun, click here to purchase tickets

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Passport to CT Wine Country program launches with three new locations