Windy Hill Estate

Honoring a 115- Year-Old Farm Legacy While Ushering in a New Era

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The Capital Region’s longest family-owned apple farm, begins its next chapter—where heritage meets innovation—as a new era takes root under the stewardship of Neviana Zhgaba and Ardian Llomi, agricultural entrepreneurs and owners of the award-winning Aquila’s Nest Vineyards.

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Anticipated to reopen in late Summer 2026, the orchard is being thoughtfully reimagined with new experiences, family-friendly events, and the timeless charm that has made this property a cherished destination for over a century.

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The new owners will revive the Goold family’s legacy by planting a vineyard and crafting wines on site—building upon the winemaking heritage of Brookview Station Winery—while also extensively pruning and revitalizing the existing 90-acre orchard in need of thoughtful care, with a planned two-year investment to restore it to full production.

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In 2016, Neviana and Ardian transformed Aquila's Nest Vineyards, then a bare 41-acre farm in Connecticut, into one of the state’s most celebrated destinations—recognized as Best Vineyard in Connecticut, awarded National Small Producer Winery of the Year, and selected by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as one of America’s Top 70 Small Businesses.

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Guided by the wind, our branding reflects a journey of becoming—mirroring the many winds we encounter in life, each shaping who we are and how we move forward. That same vision—respecting history while building something lasting—guides the future of Windy Hill Estate as a vibrant orchard, cidery, and vineyard destination rooted in community, culture, and experience.

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Anticipated for late Summer 2026, our reopening will bring guests the opportunity to experience:

• Apple picking & family-friendly farm experiences

• Live music, events, and artisan markets

• A reimagined farm store & cidery

• New vineyard plantings for future estate wines

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Stay connected by following us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribing on our website for updates on the reopening, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes previews.

 

For Vendor Inquires email bookings@windyhillestate.com