Spring is finally here! If that isn’t Riesling enough to be cheerful, here is more to look forward to; warmer weather, open-toed sandals, and outdoor adventures. These outdoor adventures may include a glass of fruity sangria or a delicate rose if you are lucky. New Jersey is home to many wineries that offer an abundance of alfresco seating and a variety of delicious drinks to satisfy your taste buds.
Bring your moms and dads for mother’s day and father’s day, or go and hang out with friends – these NJspots are great for all occasions:
Heritage Winery (Mullica Hill, NJ)
Heritage knows a thing about wine; the family-owned and operated establishment has served South Jersey for almost 20 years. If that isn’t enough street cred to convince you, Heritage was named New Jersey’s “Winery of the Year” in 2011 and 2014 by the Garden State Wine Growers Association.
They do not have a kitchen, but they have snacks for purchase, and you can BYOP – bring your picnic. The site has an expansive area outside their tasting room doors, with rows of Adirondack chairs that are ripe for the picking (yes, puns intended). Heritage offers wine tastings from 10 am-6 pm Sunday-Saturday for about $10.
Wine to try: if your palette craves something sweet yet refreshing, their “Jersey Blue” (Blueberry Wine) will rock your world.
Willow Creek Winery (Cape May, NJ)
We have mentioned this spot before, and for a good reason, Willow Creek is more than your average winery. This winery hosts events year-round and has a great outdoor space. This winery has much to offer from classic wine tours and “educational” wine tastings to yoga and brunch. Check it out the next time you are headed to the Jersey shore or just for a quick day trip! If you are interested in touring, a reservation is highly recommended.
Wine to try: Seasonal Red or White Sangria. They also sell their seasonal sangria by the growler (yes, growlers!).
Coda Rossa Winery (Franklinville, NJ)
This cozy winery is located in Franklinville, NJ. Even though their indoor & outdoor space is not expansive, their wine selection makes it worth the trip. Tastings are available on Fridays from 11 am to 6 pm, Saturdays from 11 am to 6 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 5 pm. No appointments are necessary.
Wine(s) to try: Coda Rossa has two revitalizing wines which will help you catch spring fever; Chambourcin Rose and the Peacho Grigio.
Tomasello Winery (Chester, NJ)
Located in Hammonton, Tomasello Winery is one of the oldest and most well-known wineries in New Jersey. It produces various wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
Some history…Tomasello Winery is a family-owned winery founded in 1933 by Frank Tomasello, Sr. It is one of the oldest wineries in New Jersey. It has a long history of producing high-quality wines. In addition to its vineyards in Hammonton, Tomasello Winery sources grapes from other areas of New Jersey, as well as California and Washington State. The winery produces a wide range of wines, including sparkling wines, fruit wines, and dessert wines, in addition to its traditional varietals.
Alba Vineyard (Milford, NJ)
Located in Milford, Alba Vineyard is known for its award-winning wines and picturesque setting. The winery produces a range of wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.
Some history…Alba Vineyard was founded in 1980 by Tom and Milly Vitale, who was inspired by the wines they had tasted while traveling in Europe. The winery is located on a 93-acre estate in the rolling hills of Warren County, and its wines are made exclusively from grapes grown on the property. Alba Vineyard is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and has won numerous awards for its wines, including several Governor’s Cups.
Cape May Winery & Vineyard (Cape May, NJ)
Located in Cape May, Cape May Winery & Vineyard is a popular destination for wine lovers. The winery produces various wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
Some history…Cape May Winery & Vineyard was founded in 1995 by Toby Craig and his wife Mary, inspired by the vineyards they had seen while traveling in France and Italy. The winery is located on a 70-acre farm just a few miles from the beach in Cape May, and its wines are made from grapes grown on the property as well as from other areas of New Jersey. Cape May Winery & Vineyard is a popular destination for wine lovers, with a tasting room, tours, and events throughout the year.
Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes, NJ)
Located in Ringoes, Unionville Vineyards is a boutique winery that produces a range of high-quality wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.
Some history…Unionville Vineyards was founded in 1988 by John and Patricia Crouch, who was inspired by the vineyards they had seen in Europe. The winery is located on a 55-acre farm in Hunterdon County, and its wines are made exclusively from grapes grown on the property. Unionville Vineyards is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and has won numerous awards for its wines, including several Governor’s Cups.
Sharrott Winery (Hammonton, NJ)
In Hammonton, Sharrott Winery is known for its award-winning wines and beautiful setting. The winery produces various wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.
Some history…Sharrott Winery was founded in 2005 by Larry Sharrott, who had previously worked in the telecommunications industry. The winery is located on a 35-acre estate in Hammonton, and its wines are made from grapes grown on the property and in other areas of New Jersey. Sharrott Winery has won numerous awards for its wines, including several Governor’s Cups, and is known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices. The winery also has a tasting room, tours, and events throughout the year.
