HARTFORD, Conn. — The Connecticut Farm Wine Development Council has rebranded to the simpler Connecticut Farm Wineries, just in time to launch their popular passport program, encouraging consumers to engage with the state’s more than 45 farm wineries — 35 of which participate in the passport program. No longer a physical passport, but rather a user-friendly mobile app available on most devices, the CT Wine Passport is available at both the Apple App Store and on Google Play.

“CT Wine Passport is a great way to have a fun, interactive experience trying new wines, new regions, and new opportunities throughout our great state,” said Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. “Plan your visits throughout the summer and support local Connecticut businesses along the way, all while exploring all of the hidden gems our great state has to offer.”

The mobile app is a new twist on the familiar passport program which began in 2010 — with users obtaining digital passport stamps which earn rewards to be redeemed for a chance to win one of more than 60 prizes in the prize drawing as they explore Connecticut Wine Country.

“We are so thrilled to have this app roll out today, it means a lot to all of our wineries,” said Hilary Criollo, owner of Hopkins Vineyard, President of CT Vineyard and Winery Association, and CT Farm Wine Development Council member. “All of our wineries have been busy tending our vines, we are open, and looking forward to having you visit us. Download the app, CT Wine Passport, and explore the state.”

The new Connecticut Farm Wineries brand features a stemmed wine glass with a swirl of wine in the appropriate color of burgundy. The swirl shape echoes the lines of the new CT Grown brand, with both identities developed by eastern-Connecticut brand firm, Miranda Creative, Inc.

“Through refreshing this brand, we hope to raise public awareness and encourage consumers to engage with our state’s many great farm wineries,” said Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “We recognize the launch of the new Connecticut Farm Wineries brand presents a great opportunity within our larger mission to develop a broader understanding of the value of the state’s robust agriculture and aquaculture assets.”

For more information about Connecticut Farm Wineries or the Passport to Connecticut Wine Country, visit their new website at ctwinecountry.com.

About Connecticut Farm Wineries

A voluntary council made up winery owners, research institutions, and representatives of Connecticut Department of Agriculture and Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development. The council is responsible for promoting state wines and related products, offering educational programs, recommending research projects, and advising groups on farm wine development.

–Connecticut Farm Wineries