Best Spots for Wine in New England

With the weather turning colder, it might just be the perfect time to sample some fine wines, then cozy up with your favorite during (or after) dinner. We’ve pulled together a list of our Best Spots for Wine in New England from our 2012 Editors’ Picks. Cheers!

BEST WINE TASTING
Westport Rivers Vineyard & Winery — Westport, MA
A fortunate vineyard microclimate combines with winemaking expertise and a quarter century of experience to make world-class products. Purchase a glass with the logo and the staff will pour you samples of several vintages.
417 Hixbridge Road. 508-636-3423; westportrivers.com

BEST RESTAURANT WINE LIST
Left Bank Restaurant — Tyngsboro, MA
The owners of the Stonehedge Inn & Spa have been buying great wines young and aging them for years, resulting in an unparalleled choice of fine vintages at surprisingly modest prices. The contemporary American menu offers something elegant and flavorful to match any bottle.
160 Pawtucket Blvd. 978-649-4400; stonehedgeinnandspa.com

BEST CITY WINE BAR
Coppa — Boston, MA
Coppa’s extensive and unusual wine list touches all the Italian bases, from Alto Adige in the north (crisp whites) to Sicily in the south (hearty reds). The menu of tasty small plates for shared snacking covers the peninsula as well, from risotto balls and white anchovies to a sea urchin-and-salami panino with mustard seeds. Don’t miss the wood-fired pizzas.
253 Shawmut Ave. 617-391-0902; coppaboston.com

BEST WINE BAR
Old Vines Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant — Kennebunk, ME
Mike Farrell renovated an old barn into an Old World-meets-New World European-style wine bar. Complementing the wines, beers, spirits, and cocktails are nibbles, snacks, and small plates with choices such as lobster panini, broiled Maine shrimp and chorizo, and a white gazpacho that will more than satisfy garlic lovers.
173 Port Road, Lower Village. 207-967-2310; oldvineswinebar.com

BEST FOOD & WINE PAIRING
The Fiddlehead Restaurant — Bangor, ME
Chef Melissa Chaiken’s menu changes regularly, but her creative offerings blend Maine and worldly flavors. Co-owner Laura Albin manages the casual dining room. She knows wine and enjoys introducing diners to lesser-known varietals and vintners.
84 Hammond St. 207-942-3336; thefiddleheadrestaurant.com