Though many people may not know it, the wine from New Jersey is some of the best in the United States. The wine culture in the Garden State is something quite special and unique, as are the wines and wineries that make their home there. Whether you are a seasoned wine aficionado or just getting acquainted with the different tastes, vintages, and wineries in your home state of Jersey, you can benefit from knowing where the best wineries are to be found. These are our top choices from all of the best wineries in New Jersey.
The Best of the Best
If you’re visiting alone or booking a winery tour in New Jersey, these spots should undoubtedly be on your list.
Cedar Rose Vineyards, Millville
This 22-acre slice of heaven is not only a place for wine lovers but a place they can enjoy with their entire family. There is an obvious benefit to visiting Cedar Rose Vineyards, and that’s the wine. This estate produced mainly drier wines and a select few semi-sweets for those who prefer a slightly softer taste. The benefits that might not be obvious are things like yoga classes, concerts, an exciting book club, and events like the Savor Summer Wine Festival, where you can take in live music acts, indulge in delicious morsels from food trucks, tastings, and family-friendly fun.
Salem Oak Vineyards, Pedricktown
Just outside of Philadelphia lies a charming little country town called Pedricktown. It is near here that the Salem Oak Vineyards can be found. Not only is this location incredibly beautiful in the spring and summer months, but this small, family-run winery produces several interesting and unusual wines. Their award-winning Triple Twin Strawberry — a semi-sweet strawberry wine — is something you won’t waste every day. Look out for the Christopher Andrew, too — a peppery, dry Chambourcin that goes down a treat when paired with nibbles like pretzel bites and artichoke dip. Stop by on Sundays and try the farm’s famous Sunday brunch — you won’t be sorry.
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Cape May Winery, Cape May
There’s a lot to see and do in Cape May, so much so that it can sometimes become a little overwhelming. If you need a little time away from the teeming beaches, visit Cape May Winery. Here, you can choose from two different kinds of tastings. There is the traditional tasting, which comes in at an affordable $10 per person. You’ll get to taste six half-ounce glasses and take a glass home as a memento of the occasion. The second option is the educational tasting, a semi-private seated tasting. Once you’re done with the wine, tempt your tastebuds with delicious lobster sliders and charcuterie boards or delicious brioche french toast.
Hawk Haven Vineyards, Rio Grande
Another Cape May County farm — Hawk Haven Vineyards — is an excellent spot for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a little winter excursion, book a seat in the heated tent to stay nice and cozy. Call and secure your spot on a guided wine tasting, or ask for an outdoor picnic and savor food and drink together. Hawk Haven has won awards for several wines: try the cabernet-franc if you want something unique. If you visit in the summertime, ask for a glass of the 2022 sparkling rose, and you’ll notice the notes of raspberry, white peach, and toasted coconut. If you’re a music lover, be sure to book tickets for the Vineyard’s summer concert series from mid-July to early September.
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Renault Winery, Egg Harbor City
Imagine stepping out of your car and into a whole new world, reminiscent of the French countryside, box shrub and all. Renault Winery looks like it has been transported directly from France and into Jersey; you’ve never seen anything like it. The impeccably landscaped gardens are a dream to stroll through, and the architecture is the perfect background for a stunning selfie or family photo. The on-site hotel, the beautiful and elegant Château Renault, has 55 rooms available. Once you’re checked in and refreshed, visit the vineyard’s tasting room and sample your fill, or alternatively, take a full wine tour, complete with food and wine pairings. If your stay is a weekend or more, you’ll have time to check out the 18-hole golf course, try any of the three restaurants (we particularly like the Parisian-inspired cafe), and indulge in a family movie or even some goat yoga.
Bellview Winery, Landisville
Last but certainly not least is the pet-friendly Bellview Winery. Bring your furry friends along (on a leash, of course), and taste any of the dozen estate-grown varieties they have on offer. Bellview is best known for a few specialties: dandelion wine and port, but that’s not to say that the reds, whites, and fruit wines aren’t delicious as well. Tastings are available only from Friday to Sunday. Still, there are also Fiesta Fridays and Soiree Saturdays to take advantage of — you can enjoy live music and food trucks on these occasions.
Wine Time
If you’re taking a wine-centric vacation in Jersey or looking to indulge in a little bit of local wine tourism, these are the spots you should visit along the way. Wine culture in New Jersey is growing and thriving, and you can become a part of it.
