Location Spotlight: Leyden Farm Vineyards & Winery • Rhode Island Family Photographer

I've lived in Rhode Island for all of my years.   I've traveled to all corners and explored so much of what this beautiful state has to offer.  I thought that there was not a lot left that I hadn't seen but guess what?  I was wrong.

Did you know that Rhode Island has several really good wineries?  While there are places in the world more renowned for their wine, I daresay Little Rhody holds its own.  Taking a trip to one of these wineries is a great way to have a girls' day out or a date with your spouse.

Recently I was able to take a trip to Leyden Farm Vineyards & Winery in West Greenwich, RI.  This spot is a hidden gem.  The wine tasting experience they provide is so wonderful and relaxing  that I considered asking to just move right in when the tasting was done.  (Don't worry, I didn't actually do this but I won't blame you if you do).

Ready to hear a little bit about the experience at Leyden Farm?  Read on.

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

Leyden Farm is located in a quiet spot in West Greenwich, RI on Plain Meeting House Road.  It's been a Christmas tree farm for many years but now they've expanded their options.  And I'm so glad. 

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

When you arrive at Leyden Farm, you are greeted by a friendly hostess who explains the tasting process.  You are given a list of all the wines (with prices by bottle in case you want to buy any; you will!) and you get to choose five wines from the list to taste. You also get a complimentary souvenir wine glass.  There is seating both indoors and outdoors on the deck. We chose outdoors because it's summer!  Cloudy weather?  Who cares.  It's warm.  Let's have some wine!  If you sit on the deck you have a great view out to the Christmas trees and grape plants.  And, if you are in the right place at the right time like we were, you might see a wedding proposal occur.

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

Once you've picked your wine selections, you are able to go to the wine bar to have your current selection poured for you.  On our visit, the attendant at the wine bar was super informative with plenty of info on each wine.  Also, she loved her job and was so excited to talk about how much she enjoyed working there.  Score more points for this winery!

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

Between samples we wandered around the grounds a little.  There are lots of Christmas trees, fruits and veggies, grapes (of course) and I spotted this pretty nifty tractor.  I promise we didn't try to drive it.

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

Here is where I got up close and personal with some of the grape plants.  Hi, grapes!

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

After our tasting, we found a wine flavor we all really liked:  Lazy Watermelon.  It tastes like summer!  We purchased a bottle and split it amongst our table.  Before this visit, I never thought I was a watermelon wine girl, but now I can say I am.

Amy Kristin Photography • Rhode Island Family Photographer

Any trip to a winery wouldn't be complete without purchasing some of the wine they produce.  One of my favorites was Sunny's Grigio, so I brought some home with me and enjoyed a glass (yes, I drink my wine out of a non-wine glass) in my own back yard.  All of the Leyden Farm wines have family pets on the labels; of course I chose a variety that features a cat.

Our visit to Leyden Farm was so enjoyable and relaxing.  I can't recommend this place enough as a great girls' trip or date.  Take a trip and be sure to tell me what your favorite flavor is!  I've got a few more on my wish list.

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