CONNECTICUT — The 2025 edition of the Passport to Connecticut Wine Country program has launched, with 35 of the state’s 45 farm wineries joining the statewide wine trail challenge that runs from May 1 through December 31.
Participants can either download the passport app or pick up a printed passport book at any participating winery.
Visitors earn one point for every stamp collected at each location — either digital or physical — during the eight-month event window.
The program’s structure is built around three reward tiers. Guests who collect at least 12 stamps qualify for the “Taster” tier, while 18 stamps elevate them to “Sommelier.” Reaching 35 winery visits lands participants in the “Winemaker” category and makes them eligible for a commemorative gift.
In addition to milestone incentives, passport holders can enter into a prize drawing. More than 60 prizes are available across all tiers, offering another layer of reward for participants exploring Connecticut’s vineyard landscape.
The initiative aims to bolster support for local winemakers and the state’s agricultural economy.
According to the Department of Agriculture, it also encourages tourism within the state by highlighting lesser-known destinations and connecting wine lovers to the growers and producers behind each bottle.
Along with the wineries, the program often indirectly benefits surrounding small businesses such as restaurants, inns, and craft retailers, as many participants plan day trips and weekend excursions around their wine trail visits.
Further information on participating locations and prize guidelines is available at ctwinecountry.com.
