The 18 Best Wineries To Visit In New Jersey
Explore the hidden gems of New Jersey's wine country with our ultimate guide. Discover top wineries, enjoy tastings, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of New Jersey winemaking.
Aug 03, 202411.7K Shares175.7K Views
New Jersey, often overshadowed by its neighboring states, boasts a vibrant and flourishing wine scene. From lush vineyards to cozy tasting rooms, the Garden Stateoffers a delightful array of wineries for enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. This guide will take you on a journey through some of the most notable wineries in New Jersey, showcasing their unique offerings, histories, and why they deserve a spot on your must-visit list.
Exploring New Jersey's Wine Country
New Jersey's wine country is divided into several distinct regions, each offering a unique terroir and wine experience. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, these regions provide a diverse array of wines and settings to explore.
Outer Coastal Plain AVA
The Outer Coastal Plain AVA(American Viticultural Area) is one of New Jersey's most prominent wine regions. This area benefits from a temperate climate and sandy soils, ideal for growing a variety of grapes.
Bellview Winery
Located in Landisville, Bellview Winery is a family-owned estate known for its exceptional wines and welcoming atmosphere. The winery offers a broad selection of wines, from dry reds and whites to sweet dessert wines. Visitors can enjoy tastings in their charming tasting room or relax on the outdoor patio with a picturesque vineyard view.
Highlights:
- Award-winning Chambourcin and Blaufränkisch
- Monthly wine and cheese pairings
- Seasonal events and festivals
Tomasello Winery
Tomasello Winery, one of New Jersey's oldest wineries, has been producing wine since 1933. Located in Hammonton, this winery offers a rich history and a wide variety of wines. Their portfolio includes everything from classic reds and whites to innovative fruit wines.
Highlights:
- Historic vineyard tours
- Extensive tasting room with over 50 wines
- Annual wine festivals and events
Cape May Peninsula
The Cape May Peninsula offers a unique coastal wine experience. The maritime climate and sandy soils produce wines with distinct character and flavor profiles.
Cape May Winery & Vineyard
Cape May Winery & Vineyard is a must-visit destination in the heart of Cape May. Known for its beautiful setting and high-quality wines, this winery provides a memorable experience for all visitors. The spacious deck overlooking the vineyard is perfect for enjoying a glass of their signature Cabernet Franc or Chardonnay.
Highlights:
- Guided vineyard and winery tours
- Exclusive reserve tastings
- Wine flights paired with local cheese and charcuterie
Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery
Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery, located in Rio Grande, offers a blend of tradition and innovation. This family-run winery focuses on sustainable farming practices and produces a range of varietals, including their popular Flying Press Red and Sauvignon Blanc.
Highlights:
- Vineyard walk and tasting tours
- Live music events and food trucks
- Wine club membership with exclusive perks
Warren Hills AVA
The Warren Hills AVA, in the northwestern part of the state, is known for its rolling hills and fertile soils, producing excellent wines with depth and complexity.
Alba Vineyard
Alba Vineyard in Milford is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability. The estate-grown wines here reflect the unique terroir of the region, offering rich and balanced flavors. Their tasting room, set in a historic barn, provides a rustic and inviting atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Estate-grown Pinot Noir and Riesling
- Guided tours of the vineyard and winery
- Seasonal food and wine pairings
Villa Milagro Vineyards
Villa Milagro Vineyards, meaning "House of Miracles," lives up to its name with breathtaking views and exceptional wines. Located in Finesville, this boutique winery uses organic and sustainable practices to produce a variety of blends and single varietals.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of the Delaware River
- Organic and sustainably produced wines
- Educational wine classes and tastings
Central Delaware Valley AVA
The Central Delaware Valley AVA is another notable wine region, offering a mix of charming rural settings and sophisticated wine experiences.
Unionville Vineyards
Unionville Vineyards, located in Ringoes, is a standout in this region. The winery is housed in a historic 19th-century farmhouse and offers a wide range of wines, including Chardonnay, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. Their commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bottle.
Highlights:
- Tastings in a historic farmhouse
- Estate-grown Chardonnay and Syrah
- Seasonal events and private tastings
Beneduce Vineyards
Beneduce Vineyardsin Pittstown offers a modern and welcoming atmosphere, with a focus on producing high-quality, estate-grown wines. Their spacious tasting room and outdoor areas make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day out.
Highlights:
- Unique varietals like Blaufränkisch and Gewürztraminer
- Live music events every weekend
- Vineyard tours and educational tastings
Old York Cellars
Nestled in the rolling hills of Ringoes, Old York Cellars offers a serene escape for wine lovers. This winery is known for its commitment to blending tradition with innovation, producing a wide range of wines that cater to diverse palates.
The tasting room, overlooking the vineyard, provides a perfect setting to enjoy their signature wines, such as the award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and their unique What Exit Red, which supports local charities.
Highlights:
- Scenic vineyard views with a relaxing atmosphere
- Wine and food pairing events featuring local cuisine
- Themed tasting experiences and seasonal wine releases
Laurita Winery
Laurita Winery, located in New Egypt, is a destination that combines the beauty of nature with the elegance of wine. This eco-friendly winery is known for its sustainable practices and a vast selection of wines made from estate-grown grapes.
Laurita's expansive property includes beautifully landscaped grounds, perfect for picnics and outdoor events. Their wine menu features everything from bold reds to refreshing whites, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for all visitors.
Highlights:
- Eco-friendly and sustainable wine production
- Frequent events including food truck festivals and live music
- Picturesque location ideal for weddings and private events
William Heritage Winery
Located in Mullica Hill, William Heritage Winery is a family-owned estate that has earned a reputation for producing some of New Jersey's finest wines. As one of the state's few certified sustainable vineyards, William Heritage offers an array of premium wines, including their acclaimed BDX, a Bordeaux-style red blend, and their crisp, refreshing Chardonnay.
The winery also offers seasonal wine flights and food pairings that enhance the tasting experience.
Highlights:
- Certified sustainable vineyard with a focus on quality
- Award-winning wines including the BDX blend and sparkling wines
- Wine club memberships with exclusive benefits and events
Renault Winery
One of the oldest continuously operating wineries in the United States, Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City is steeped in history and charm. Established in 1864, this historic winery offers a unique blend of traditional winemaking and modern amenities.
Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved vineyard, enjoy tastings in the elegant tasting room, and dine at the on-site restaurant, which features dishes expertly paired with Renault’s wines.
Highlights:
- Rich history dating back to the 19th century
- On-site restaurant offering wine-paired cuisine
- Luxury accommodations at the Renault Resort for a full vineyard experience
Sharrott Winery
Sharrott Winery, located in Hammonton, is known for its friendly atmosphere and award-winning wines. This family-owned winery emphasizes quality and consistency, producing a variety of wines that have earned accolades in national competitions.
The tasting room, with its modern design and comfortable seating, is an inviting space to sample their offerings, such as the popular Barrel Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and the refreshing Vidal Blanc.
Highlights:
- Award-winning wines recognized at national competitions
- Cozy and modern tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating
- Regular live music events and seasonal wine releases
Amalthea Cellars
Located in Atco, Amalthea Cellars is a charming winery that draws inspiration from Old World traditions while embracing New World innovations. Known for producing wines with a European flair, Amalthea Cellars specializes in blends that reflect the heritage of the founder, who studied winemaking in Bordeaux.
Their wine offerings include a diverse range of reds, whites, and sparkling wines, all crafted with meticulous care.
Highlights:
- Old World-style wines with a focus on Bordeaux blends
- Intimate tastings in a rustic, vineyard setting
- Seasonal events and wine releases that celebrate winemaking traditions
Brook Hollow Winery
Nestled in the scenic Delaware Water Gap region, Brook Hollow Winery is a family-owned establishment that prides itself on producing handcrafted wines from locally sourced grapes. This winery is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and a commitment to creating wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Brook Hollow offers a variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet fruit wines, all made with minimal intervention to preserve the natural flavors.
Highlights:
- Handcrafted wines made from locally sourced grapes
- Relaxing vineyard setting with beautiful views of the Delaware River
- Events such as live music and wine dinners that enhance the tasting experience
Four Sisters Winery
Situated in the heart of Warren County, Four Sisters Winery is a picturesque destination that combines winemaking with the charm of a working farm. This family-owned winery produces a wide range of wines, including dry reds, whites, and a popular selection of fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, farm tours, and seasonal events that highlight the agricultural heritage of the region.
Highlights:
- Farm-to-bottle wines made on-site
- Family-friendly events and farm tours
- Unique wine offerings, including a well-loved selection of fruit wines
Cava Winery & Vineyard
Cava Winery & Vineyard, located in Hamburg, offers a unique blend of wine, food, and entertainment. This boutique winery focuses on producing small-batch wines that highlight the characteristics of the region’s grapes. In addition to wine tastings, Cava Winery is known for its farm-to-table dining experiences, where guests can enjoy dishes made from locally sourced ingredients paired with their wines.
Highlights:
- Small-batch wines with a focus on quality
- Farm-to-table dining experiences
- Live entertainment and events that create a lively atmosphere
Natali Vineyards
Located in Cape May Court House, Natali Vineyards is a hidden gem in New Jersey’s wine country. This winery is known for its diverse wine portfolio, which includes everything from classic varietals to unique blends that you won’t find anywhere else. Natali Vineyards also offers a welcoming tasting room and outdoor seating, where visitors can relax and enjoy their wines in a peaceful setting.
Highlights:
- Diverse wine portfolio with unique and rare blends
- Welcoming tasting room with outdoor seating options
- Special events such as wine and painting nights, and seasonal festivals
A Taste Of New Jersey's Winemaking History
New Jersey's winemaking history dates back to the early colonial days, and the state has continued to evolve and innovate over the centuries. The diverse climate and soil conditions allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of grapes, contributing to the rich tapestry of wines produced in the state.
Why Visit New Jersey Wineries?
Visiting New Jersey wineries offers more than just a chance to taste exceptional wines. It provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, learn about winemaking traditions, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the vineyards. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a fun outing with friends, or a solo adventure, New Jersey's wineries have something to offer everyone.
Must-Try Wines In New Jersey
When visiting New Jersey wineries, there are several must-try wines that showcase the state's diverse winemaking capabilities:
- Chambourcin:A versatile red wine with rich berry flavors and a smooth finish.
- Chardonnay:Crisp and refreshing, often with notes of apple and pear.
- Blaufränkisch:A unique red varietal with spicy and fruity characteristics.
- Riesling:Light and aromatic, perfect for pairing with seafood and spicy dishes.
- Cabernet Franc:A robust red with flavors of dark fruit and hints of pepper.
Planning Your Wine Tour
To make the most of your visit to New Jersey's wineries, consider planning a wine tour. Many wineries offer guided tours that provide an in-depth look at their winemaking processes, history, and vineyard operations. Here are a few tips for planning your tour:
- Check winery hours:Many wineries have specific hours for tastings and tours. Be sure to check their websites for up-to-date information.
- Make reservations:Some wineries require reservations for tastings and tours, especially on weekends.
- Designate a driver:Safety first! If you're planning to visit multiple wineries, consider hiring a driver or using a ride-sharing service.
- Dress comfortably:Vineyards can be expansive, so wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
The Future Of New Jersey Wine
New Jersey's wine industry continues to grow and gain recognition on the national and international stage. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation, the state's wineries are poised for even greater success in the coming years. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, exploring New Jersey's wineries is a rewarding and enriching experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Wineries
What Are The Best Times To Visit New Jersey Wineries?
The best times to visit are during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the vineyards are at their most picturesque. Many wineries also host events and festivals during these seasons.
Do New Jersey Wineries Offer Food Pairings?
Yes, many wineries offer food pairings, including cheese, charcuterie, and seasonal dishes that complement their wines. Check with the individual wineries for specific offerings.
Can I Bring Children To New Jersey Wineries?
While wineries primarily cater to adults, many are family-friendly and offer activities and spaces for children. It's best to check with the winery beforehand.
Are New Jersey Wineries Pet-friendly?
Some wineries welcome pets in their outdoor areas. Always check the winery's pet policy before bringing your furry friend.
Do I Need To Book A Tour In Advance?
It's recommended to book tours in advance, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, to ensure availability and a more personalized experience.
Conclusion
Exploring the wineries of New Jersey is a journey filled with discovery, flavor, and memorable experiences. From the rolling vineyards of the Outer Coastal Plain to the historic estates of the Central Delaware Valley, each winery offers a unique story and a chance to savor the rich heritage of New Jersey winemaking. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, New Jersey's wineries provide a delightful escape into the world of wine, right in your own backyard. Cheers to your next wine adventure!
Jump to
Exploring New Jersey's Wine Country
Outer Coastal Plain AVA
Cape May Peninsula
Warren Hills AVA
Central Delaware Valley AVA
Old York Cellars
Laurita Winery
William Heritage Winery
Renault Winery
Sharrott Winery
Amalthea Cellars
Brook Hollow Winery
Four Sisters Winery
Cava Winery & Vineyard
Natali Vineyards
A Taste Of New Jersey's Winemaking History
Must-Try Wines In New Jersey
Planning Your Wine Tour
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey Wineries
Conclusion
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