Marco Polo style, I just love bringing home the foods and drinks of my travels. The flavors unique to a locale cement so many cultural traditions and choices in my mind — they make a trip that much more memorable. The Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center in Newport, Vermont, will blow your mind as to the culinary possibilities in the part of Vermont right on the Canadian border! I was happy to be hosted to experience it.
Unlike tourist stops that carry local products, the Northeast Kingdom Tasting Center caters to locals and visitors in its sizable emporium. The storefront is rather unassuming, so keep your eyes peeled when arriving. Definitely bring a cooler or ice chest with you! Canadians definitely love visiting there!There are fresh artisan meats for sale, which is something to consider if you’re renting a vacation home on the US side with a grill.
Of course, it’s a fantastic spot to get the finest of some of Vermont’s famed goodies: blueberry items, maple syrup, luxurious cheeses. What I didn’t know, was the full cornucopia of products that are created in that area! To see vodkas, rums, whiskeys, mustard, peanut butter, breads from the Northeast Kingdom was amazing.
It’s about more than just buying there — it’s a learning experience! You can taste wine, cider, vodkas and cheeses at their Tasting Bar for a nominal fee . . . just sidle up to their counter. You can also tour the Eden Cider aging room right downstairs.
For a more intense foray into the flavors of the NEK, there’s also The Brown Dog Bistro and Butcher Shop on site!
Luxe & Down-Home Cuisine/Culture/Travel/Style 