Trying the local food and drinks of an area is a favorite activity for many travelers. The Five Gables Inn is excited to be within a one-hour drive of four fantastic wineries and distilleries. We encourage you to visit and sample a few of their offerings (choose your designated driver in advance). Bring a bottle of your favorite back to enjoy on our porch overlooking Linekin Bay. We have ice, water glasses, wine glasses, and corkscrews available for your convenience. Susan’s homemade cookies are available every afternoon at the inn from 3-6 pm and can be a delightful compliment for your tasty beverage. Don’t forget to purchase an extra bottle to bring home as a gift or for yourself. A wonderful way to relive part of your vacation is reminiscing over a glass of wine or with a cocktail made with a special liquor.
Cellardoor Winery and Vineyard, Lincolnville
It is said that a traveling worker visited the farm nearly 100 years ago and felt so welcome and safe that he carved a “hobo symbol” in the barn door. That symbol has been interpreted by an artist into the winery’s logo as a sign of welcome to all of their guests. The estate vineyard has been planted with cold-hardy hybrids that can prosper in the cold Maine climate. The vineyard is pleased to have produced the first ice wine in the state in 2018 and today boasts over 20 different wines from white, red, and rose to sparkling and dessert. The winery has a menu with three pre-set flights of four wines each. Guests may also purchase glasses of wine or full bottles to enjoy while on the premises. Cheese plates and build-your-own snack boards are available as well. Reservations are available via OpenTable. Make sure to visit the quaint gift shop before you leave.
Savage Oakes Vineyard and Winery, Union
All of the wines are made from grapes grown right here on the farm. The tasting room is open May through October with select special openings through December. Choose your own flight or purchase a glass to enjoy on the lawn or in the post and beam tasting room. Seasonal food and snacks are available for purchase or guests can bring their own picnic lunch and stay for the day. Daily tours include a walk to the vineyard, a stop at the wild blueberry field, a chance view of the Belted Galloway Cattle in the fields, and ends with a wine tasting. Book the VIP tour to enjoy an artisan cheese board and bring home a souvenir glass. The winery also boasts sales of naturally raised beef. The winery has a large event lawn where they host a summer concert series under the stars. Join their mailing list to keep up-to-date with future concerts and events.
Sweetgrass Farm Winery and Distillery, Union
Sweetgrass is owned and operated by two dedicated people. Keith earned an MS in Food Science and Winemaking and has worked in the alcohol business since 1992. Constance brings heart, soul, and brains to the operation. They offer a unique assortment of “wines” including a hard apple cider, blueberry sangria, cranberry wine, and their own special vermouth. The Back River Gin gets its award-winning taste from organic botanicals, Maine blueberries, and sea air. It has been called “creative and sophisticated” by Spirit Journal. If gin is not your fancy, they also feature a rhubarb and elderberry liquor, maple syrup barrel aged brandy, rum, apple brandy, and single malt whiskey. The selection of bitters is a great addition to any home bar. The winery and distillery are open Wednesday through Sunday from May 1 until New Year’s Eve. The Carroll Farm Trail is located on the property. Start your day with a hike then stay for the wine and spirits.
Split Rock Distilling, Newcastle
A granite rock on the premises that has split is part of the inspiration of the business model for this distillery. The unexpected smoothness of the inside of the rock has been revealed over time. Matt and Topher strive for everyone to savor the smooth liquor created with time, skill, and patience. They distill whiskey, vodka, and gin; all of their spirits are organic. Some of the more unique options include horseradish vodka, barrel rested gin, and blueberry vodka. They also offer a variety of bitters for all of your cocktail recipes. Check their website for Maine inspired recipes including Blueberry Basil Bubbles and Blueberry Chai Old Fashioned. The tasting room is open Wednesday through Saturday for complimentary tastings, visual tours, and bottle sales.
