Southington Says 'Yes' To Winemaker's Retail Plan

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Months after approving a winemaker's application to build a new operation in Southington, the local zoning board approved another permit in its favor.

The Southington Planning and Zoning Commission last week unanimously approved a special permit application that, essentially, allows Northeast Winemaking to utilize 20 percent of its site for retail operations.

Last Aug. 20, the PZC unanimously voted 7-0 to approve a site plan application for Northeast Winemaking to build a new facility at what would now be 310 W. Queen St. in Southington.

Currently located in Plainville, the winemaking/brewery retailer will eventually move all operations to Southington.

The vote last week June 17 was for a permit allowing Northeast to utilize 20 percent of its facility for retail sales of wine and wine-making items.

Northeast's plan is for a new 10,640-square-foot development (one that will also feature a 6,080-square-foot expansion).

The facility's application calls for a wine-making operation and a testing room.

Zoning board members easily approved the application, expressing excitement that the development represents a new business moving into town.

The PZC knew this application was coming up when it approved the building project in August 2024.

Drew Clock of Northeast Winemaking in Southington was on hand to present the application.

"It is divided into two areas," Clock said, adding that one area is set aside for wine tasting and one area for retail sales of wine/wine-making supplies.

No one spoke for or against the application.

Southington PZC Chairman Robert Hammersley closed the public hearing, paving the way for the quick vote by the commission.

From Aug. 22, 2024: 'Southington PZC OKs Winemaking Retailer's Move To Town'