Aquila’s Nest Vineyard
An easy 35 minute drive from campus is a new Connecticut winery in Newtown: Aquila’s Nest Vineyard. In the rural area of Sandy Hook, owners Ardian and Neviana first planted seeds in 2016 to pursue their dream of opening their own vineyard. After 3 years, they were able to harvest in the fall of 2019. The following year, they opened the doors of Aquila’s Nest Vineyards to the public.
The name, “Aquila’s Nest” (translated to “Eagle’s Nest”) draws from the Mediterranean roots of Ardian and Neviana. Both originally from Albania, also known as the Land of the Eagles, they combined their culture, passion for ancient mythology, and astrology to bring their vision to life.
Enjoy the industrial-chic atmosphere accompanied by Greek statues and live music that creates a one of a kind experience and aesthetic.
The Wine
Although the picture-perfect atmosphere is unique, the wine is what really sets Aquila’s Nest apart from other wineries. Choose a glass to enjoy from their growing selection of aged reds, whites, and rosés. If you can’t decide which wine to indulge in first, try their signature flight that includes a taste of merlot, red, white riesling, and my favorite, rosé! This sampler is also paired with snacks from a local Fairfield business, BD Provisions, that complement the notes and flavors of the wine.
To match the Greek Mythology and astrological theme, each bottle of wine is branded with a constellation and named after a woman featured in Mediterranean myths.
The Food & Experience
Dine on cheese boxes, s’mores kits, or the winery’s rotating selection of popular Connecticut food trucks that include Lobster Tails, Silver Sands Pizza, and Pink Elephant. Whatever you choose to get, you will definitely not leave the vineyard hungry!
If you think the fun stops there, just you wait! Aquila’s Nest offers regularly schedule events such as fire pits, wine and macaron pairing nights, paint and sips, charcuterie tray making classes, and more! There is something everyone will be able to enjoy at this winery.
Fairfield Family
Most importantly, Aquila’s Nest was founded and created by fellow Fairfield Stags! Support this new Connecticut winery, the stag family, and their dream by visiting the vineyard for a date night, Saturday afternoon adventure, or girl’s night out. No matter what you choose to go for, Aquila’s Nest is a necessary stop on the Connecticut Wine Trail.