Nestled in the shoreline town of Clinton, Connecticut, visit us and allow Chamard Vineyards to be your next food and wine destination.
Chamard Vineyards was founded in 1983 by the William R. Chaney family. The first vines were planted in the spring of 1984, a 5.5 acre vineyard consisting primarily of Chardonnay with a small quantity of Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. From 1986 through 1992 the remaining acreage was prepared and planted, for a combined total of 20 acres.
In the summer of 1988, the winery was constructed and Chamard became a licensed farm winery. The first wine, a 1988 Chardonnay was released for sale in November of 1989. Occasionally these early vintages are released for purchase or tasting. The library archives the history of the Connecticut Wine Trail and demonstrates Chamard’s commitment to producing old world style wines that stand the test of time.
The winery building was constructed in 1988 and the classic New England design features finely crafted stonework using fieldstones from the property. The cellar incorporates wooden beams milled from trees which were originally cleared from the farm land. The winemaking process at Chamard incorporates traditional, hands on care with an array of modern winemaking equipment.
The underground wine cellar and barrel aging rooms enjoy cool, stable temperatures throughout the year creating ideal winemaking conditions. A walk through the cellar shows how technology blends with time honored winemaking traditions to create fine wines. Look out over the vineyards from the custom built bar in the tasting room. Enjoy wine and artisan cheeses on the deck while the sunsets or picnic in the vineyard.
Chamard benefits from a unique micro-climate influenced greatly by Long Island Sound. Located two miles from the sound and six miles from the mouth of the Connecticut River, this maritime climate produces mild winter temperatures and a long, warm growing season, very similar to Central France or the Burgundy region.
The rich, stony soil, gently sloping land and moderate climate provide an ideal environment for the growing of European Vinifera wine grapes. In 2005 Chamard was purchased by the Rothberg family who recognized its beauty and heritage. The Rothberg’s are committed to expanding the palette of wines and making Chamard Vineyards a premier Connecticut destination.
