Turn down a gravel country road, drive past vineyards dotted with new homes and turn of the century barns pressed against the beautiful rolling hills of North East Windsor and you’ll find Notre Vue Estate Winery and Vineyards. Nestled in these rolling hills is the home of Notre Vue and Balverne, a 710-acre Estate hugging two AVA’s: Russian River and Chalk Hill. The Estate is currently planted with 18 varietals over 210 acres, is certified sustainable, and has 350 acres of ‘Forever Wild’ space. Needless to say, I was blow away by this breathtaking property. Then add in delicious wines, a quaint tasting room with a European café feel and friendly, knowledgeable staff… SOLD

Balverne began making wine in 1972 and it would ebb and flow over the next 20 years until 1992 when the Stein’s acquired the property. Their focus was to become stewards to the land, tenderly caring for the vineyards, the very foundation of their wines. As well as paying tribute to its natural beauty and heritage with the resurrected Balverne label featuring the original Red-Tailed Hawk and Anglo-French name, meaning “place of trees”.

The Notre Vue Estate is truly magical, with simple natural beauty. If you have an opportunity to stop by for a tasting, I highly recommend it. Currently offering 4 tastings, there is something for everyone. But my two favorites on the list are the CULTIVAR, a food and wine pairing and the SAUVAGE, an estate tour and tasting. And never fear, if you can’t make it to the winery Bottle Barn has you covered!

Cheers!