For many, life’s second-act may look more like a snail’s pace kind of day at the beach with a little sunshine and a lot of relaxation. It’s meant to be the ultimate period of switching from overdrive to, well, no drive. Right? For Michael and Merrily Connery, however, they did shift gears, but instead of slowing down, they swapped the go-go-go of city-life for spectacular stony views and fields of potential. From the ground up, along the southeastern, Connecticut shoreline, the Connery’s built a wine lover’s paradise.

With style akin to those in British Vogue, the 70-something year-olds traded rows of offices and long careers in law and real-estate, for rows of vines and wine glasses. The creation of Saltwater Farm and Kingdom of the Hawk vineyards became the fruits of their labor during ages when most yearn for a powerful remote and comfy recliner.

Once Upon A Time

The couple met in college while living in Washington DC in the 1960s. After marrying, and moving around between DC, Cincinnati, and Bridgeport, Connecticut while establishing their careers, they settled upon the hustle and bustle of New York.

Many years later, in 2001, they stumbled upon 108 acres on the water in Stonington and began dreaming. The dilapidated, World War Two-era private airplane hangar soon became the home of Saltwater Farm Vineyard , the couple’s first endeavor into the world of vinting. They restored the hangar and began planting vines.

Being familiar with the North Fork of Long Island, which boasts a similar climate, the couple had an idea of what could grow in the rocky soil on their Connecticut property, however sought expertise. “Once the CT Department of Agriculture deemed our soil suitable for growing vines— where there were once fields of hay,” said Michael, “We then sought guidance from Steve Mudd, who’s considered the ‘godfather’ of growing grapes on Long Island.”

The rest is history…

Along with wine maker, Gilles Martin, part of Sparkling Pointe on Long Island, the Connerys’ began making wine suitable to the terroir and climate. The venue soon became popular, not only for wine-tasting, but as a sought after site for weddings.

With one thriving vineyard and event space, and nearly 20 years under their belts, they were ready for another project. In 2018, they purchased 50 acres of open land in North Stonington—a few miles from Saltwater—and opened Kingdom of the Hawk. With eyes always on design, the couple reimagined the idea of a classic barn for their latest vineyard. Steel beams, vaulted ceilings, concrete floors and its now iconic archway, are all nods to their first foray into wine at Saltwater Farm. The dramatic new structure is a showcase of sleek, contemporary architectural design, and surrounded by vines and the area’s rugged rocky vistas.

It’s no surprise that both vineyards check many boxes for weddings of all shapes and sizes. The venues strike a balance between intimate and expansive, and appeal to many with their natural, minimalist aesthetic and stunning views.

Pop the Cork

Kingdom of the Hawk produces a selection of Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blanc, several Rosés, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, a Bordeaux-like blend of Cab Franc and Merlot. They also create another red blend, their Raptor Red, made with four different grapes.

Given the proximity to the shore, and the rich, locally-sourced options, the couple often pair their wines with seafood.

“Our Sauvignon Blanc is delightful with Ninigret oysters,” mentioned Michael. Or, with a lightly chilled Pinot Noir, we enjoy salmon from J & R Seafood, whether pan sautéed, grilled or baked it pairs perfectly,” said Merrily. “A favorite recipe with corn, tomato and shrimp is perfectly complimented by our Pinot Noir Rosé; and we are fond of a variety of Merguez lamb sausage which cries out for our Raptor Red,” she continued.

Diving into the world of making wine may not be the first, second, or any choice for people of “retirement age,” a construct many today, however, are choosing to flip on its head. But for the Connerys’, who’ve chosen to spend this time creating beautiful, community spaces for moments of celebration or just being one with nature, they couldn’t image this chapter being filled any other way. “Watching people enjoy themselves at our vineyards…” said Merrily, “We’ve come to realize is probably the best measure of success.”

Thanking veterans for their sacrifice and service – that’s the mission behind the non-profit, House of Heroes Connecticut.

The organization has helped hundreds of vets over the years both in and out of state.

On Saturday, they were out helping four more veterans by the shoreline. Two of them were from West Haven and were family members.

“I feel very honored that they’re doing this,” said Mark Turner.

Mark Turner served in the US Army and Army Reserves from 1993 to 2001. His stepfather, Robert Levy, fought in World War II during the invasion of Normandy. Levy was also a bronze star honoree.

“He did a couple months in combat and then he did nine months in a prisoner of war camp,” said Turner. “He gave everything, you know.”

Turner says he had a very close relationship with his stepfather and wanted to follow his footsteps.

“I always considered him to be my real dad. He married my mom in 1979. I was about 4 years old. I just wanted to serve my country, and I just wanted to be like Pop,” said Turner.

To thank them both for their service, dozens of people volunteered their time to repair the front porch, clean up the back yard, and fix the side of the house along 2nd Avenue, where Turner and his mother live.

“You know, we learned about Mr. Levy’s story, and we said ‘look, we get to help two veterans in one go here,” said Dennis Buden, senior consultant and former executive director of House of Heroes CT.

Dennis Buden has been working with the organization for 10 years and says it feels good to give back to those who put our country first. 

After Saturday, House of Heroes Connecticut will have served 239 veterans since the organization started in 2012.

CHESHIRE, CT — Several new businesses were registered with the state of Connecticut recently in Cheshire.

Here is a list of businesses that were formed in Cheshire from June 28 through July 25, 2024.

The data is from the Connecticut Business Registry, maintained by the Secretary of the State, Business Services Division.