There is something about fall in New England that just feels special. The crisp air, changing of the leaves, apple cider donuts, and of course, a festive fall drink. As you know I am a foodie, so finding a place that combines great drinks with a fun experience is always a win for me. Echo Hill Orchards Winery & Distillery has become one of my favorite fall destinations to spend quality time with my family and friends.
Located just up Wilbraham Road in Monson Massachusetts, Echo Hill offers the complete fall package. Whether you are looking for a relaxing afternoon with friends, a family outing or somewhere to sip back and enjoy the season, there is truly something for everyone.
One of my favorite parts about visiting Echo Hill is heading out into the orchards. Depending on what is in season, visitors can pick their own apples, blueberries, pumpkins and pears, along with beautiful sunflowers. There is nothing better than grabbing a festive drink and wandering through the orchard on a breezy fall afternoon, picking fresh fruit and finding the perfect sunflowers to bring home.
Of course, I have to talk about the drinks. Echo Hill creates its own fruit-based wines, moonshine and cocktails, with plenty of seasonal options to choose from. My personal favorite is the caramel apple sangria. It is refreshing, festive and basically fall in a cup. They also offer a great selection of mocktails, making it easy for everyone to find something fun to sip while enjoying the orchard.
This family-owned business is heading into its 30th fall season, and it has become so much more than a traditional orchard. Echo Hill regularly hosts music bingo, which is always a fun addition to a fall night out. My recommendation? Grab one of their popcorn buckets before bingo starts. There is also typically a food truck or two on site, so you can easily spend a few hours eating, drinking and enjoying the atmosphere.
Before you leave, make sure you stop inside the country store. This is where you will find one of my fall weaknesses: their apple cider donuts. They are absolutely incredible and a must every time I visit. The shop also carries Echo Hill branded shirts and stickers, candles, small gifts and bottles of their wines and spirits to take home.
Every year, I make sure to pick up a bottle of their “Goblin Grog” pumpkin wine. It has become a little tradition of mine to save it and share it on Thanksgiving, bringing a piece of my favorite fall destination to the holiday table.
During the fall season, Echo Hill is open Thursday from noon to 6 p.m., Friday from noon to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For me, the best fall days are the simple ones that include good food, a festive drink and time spent with the people you love. Echo Hill Orchards Winery & Distillery brings all of that together in one place, making it a fall tradition worth returning to year after year.
For more local restaurant features, food finds, travel spots, and hidden gems across New England, be sure to follow my blog, Hello Food Reviews on Instagram at @hellofoodreviews for your next place to visit.