NEWTOWN, Conn. — The ease of COVID-19 restrictions might help small businesses in Connecticut like Aquila’s Nest Vineyards in Newtown.
Governor Lamont, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz and state leaders visited Friday afternoon to see the winery that opened during the pandemic, celebrated their success, and champion the lifting of restrictions.
Aquila’s Nest Vineyard was preparing to welcome customers as spacing limitations eased Friday.
“The pandemic has had just a terrible and devastating impact on our economy, but at the same time we have seen very courageous business owners step forward in a time of challenge to open up a new business,” Lt. Governor Bysiewicz said.
The owners, from Albania opened the doors to the business October 29. The winery sits on a 41 acre 200-year-old farm in Newtown. They offer food, wine and an outdoor fire pit, which kept the business active throughout the winter and the pandemic.
“It’s actually nice news for not just our winery, but the hospitality businesses around Connecticut,” said founder and co-owner of Aquila’s Nest Vineyard Neviana Zhgaba. “We’re still going to continue to keep the six feet social distancing, mask wearing, however with the coming of the warmer weather people can come and enjoy themselves outside.”
Social gatherings at private residences can now include 25 people indoors and 100 people outdoors and at commercial venues 100 people will be allowed indoors and 200 people outdoors.
Senator Richard Blumenthal said federal financial support helped make the opening possible.
“It received $125,000, I believe in equipment loans,” Senator Blumenthal said. “It is now eligible for the Restaurant Revitalization Program.”
The owners also partnered with local women-owned businesses such as photography companies and fine foods companies. State leaders recognized Women’s History Month as they celebrated a successful start of coming opportunities in Connecticut at vineyards.
“It’s just amazing that last year we had more business startups than we’ve had in a decade,” Governor Ned Lamont. “Maybe it’s a little easier to do it. Maybe people had free time to think about things. Maybe there’s some startup money and this is just one.”
Aquila’s Nest Vineyard also has opportunities for large-scale events and a variety of experiences coming up this spring. Information is available on the company website here.
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