New Jersey and Connecticut are home to more than 50 local wineries. Wine may be the nectar of the gods but it can wreak havoc on teeth. The acidity in wine damages enamel, eventually leading to tooth decay.
But don’t pass on the glass just yet! There are plenty of chances to fill your weekend calendar with wine tastes and tours. Use this tooth-friendly guide to explore our region’s best wineries:
• Wine Trip: Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes, NJ
Must Sip: Revolutionary Red is a soft and dry-bodied blend that combines cherry and berry with a hint of smoke.
Tooth Tip: The tannins in red wine bind to teeth, leaving unsightly stains. And drinking white wine first can make red stains stand out. White varietals are more acidic, stripping enamel and acting as a “primer” to red wine. Although wine tastings start with white, reverse the order to alleviate stains.
• Wine Trip: Bellview Winery in Landisville, NJ
Must Sip: Jersey Devil White is legendary! This off-dry blend combines kiwi, apple, melon and a hint of citrus.
Tooth Tip: Sip water after tasting each wine. Water washes away acidic wine remnants and encourages saliva flow.
• Wine Trip: Haight-Brown Vineyard in Litchfield, CT
Must Sip: Honey Nut Apple Wine has the ideal New England flavor. Sweet apples are mixed with honey and cinnamon, making this award-winning varietal as good as apple pie.
Tooth Tip: Haight-Brown pairs their wine tastings with 20+ local cheeses. Nibble on cheese between sips to help neutralize wine’s high pH levels. Plus, the calcium in cheese strengthens enamel.
• Wine Trip: Jones Family Farm and Winery in Shelton, CT
Must Sip: End the day with dessert! Blueberry Bliss is sweet, full-bodied and pairs perfectly with your favorite chocolate dish. Each bottle is made from blueberries grown right on the farm.
Tooth Tip: At the end of your wine-tasting tour, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing. The acidity in wine weakens the enamel of your teeth, and brushing immediately afterward can increase damage. Rinse with water while you wait.
Which winery did we miss? Let us know in the comments!