Wine tastings are no longer available to residents at McLaughlin Vineyards, according to an e-mail the vineyard sent to The Newtown Bee on Monday, July 4. After thanking residents for their patronage, the e-mail from the vineyard stated: "We have decided after much consideration to no longer operate an open-to-the-public tasting room."

The note reads, "With the summer season in full swing, we wanted to reach out and thank you for your patronage over the many years we have been open to the public."

Attempts to locate information about the vineyard through its website at mclaughlinvinerads.com brought internet browsers to a blank page, and attempts by phone to learn more about the closing were unsuccessful. Both local and toll free numbers are not in service.

The e-mail to the newspaper stated, "While we still care for the vineyards, the farm is only open for a select number of private events or through rental of our farmhouse," and invites guests to, "Spend a few days walking our trails (part of Al's Trail), BBQing with friends, or simply disconnecting."

A "charming three-bedroom, two-bath farmhouse situated on a knoll overlooking the front lawn, is a perfect seasonal retreat," is also available. An e-mail sent to info@mclaughlinvineyards.com on Friday, July 8, has received no reply.

A recent reply to an inquiry about the vineyard to Newtown Chamber of Commerce suggests that McLaughlin's was "underfunded and needed to close and reevaluate."