This past weekend I had the opportunity to visit the Hardwick Vineyard and Winery in Hardwick, Massachusetts. Located off a quiet country road, on the outskirts of the Quabbin Reservoir, the vineyard sits upon a picturesque New England setting of rolling fields, flowers, and mountains views. The winery, owned and operated by John and Audrey Samek, welcomes visitors for tastings, tours, sales, and special events. The winery itself is located in a 5,000 square foot mortise and tenon timber framed barn. There's not a nail in the place! The Oak wood used to reconstruct the barn was cut from their own property as they cleared the fields to make way for the vineyard. Currently, the vineyard produces six varieties of wines all of which are made from French hybrid grapes that are locally grown in their fields. Selections include:
- Giles E. Warner, a dry white wine
- Yankee Boy, a semi dry white wine and one of there best sellers
- Yankee Girl Blush, a light, fruity wine and another best seller
- Massetts Cranberry, a grape wine made with cranberry
- Hardwick Red, Massachusetts Marechal Foch, a dry red and my personal favorite
- Quabbin Native, A red dessert wine
On the first Sunday of every month, the winery entertains it's guests with a live jazz quartet that sets the ambiance for guests as they indulge themselves with local cheeses and wine, that can be purchased by the glass. The story behind the winery is actually quite interesting. The Samek's family purchased the Giles E. Warner farm in the mid nineties. At the time, this 1795, federal style mansion was in complete disarray. It was infested with rodents and animals. Windows, walls, and doors were destroyed and the house had been
stripped of many valuables including mantels and lighting fixtures. It is rumored that the looters were looking for money that was said to be hidden somewhere within the mansion. The looters never found the money, but the Sameks did, although they won't say just how much. The Sameks worked day and night to restore this historical landmark back to it's original condition. Today, the house is a beautifully preserved piece of New England history, filled and decorated with antiques that Audrey collected from different flee markets around New England. In 2003, the Samek's got their their innkeepers license and now host special overnight functions such as weddings and reunions at the vineyard.
John says Christmas is a great time to come visit the winery as the fires are stoked and the house and barn are decorated in traditional New England style for the holidays. Tours of the mansion are also available at this time. Definitely worth a trip if you are interested in architecture, New England history, and of course, wine. The Sameks are very friendly, hospitable, and will certainly make you feel welcomed. All wines are reasonably priced.
Written by Jessica Layne www.allthingsnewengland.com
