Best 9 Wineries in South Jersey NJ: A Guide to the Top Vineyards in the Region
South Jersey is home to some of the best wineries in the state of New Jersey. With its picturesque vineyards and scenic countryside, South Jersey has become a popular destination for wine lovers and enthusiasts alike. From the award-winning wines of Valenzano Winery to the rustic charm of Autumn Lake Winery, there is no shortage of options when it comes to exploring the wineries of South Jersey.
Visitors to South Jersey’s wineries can expect a range of experiences, from tastings and tours to live music and food pairings. Many wineries offer outdoor seating and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway. With a variety of grape varieties grown in the region, including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, visitors are sure to find a wine that suits their taste buds.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out with friends and family, South Jersey’s wineries offer something for everyone. With so many options to choose from, it’s no wonder that South Jersey has become a top destination for wine lovers from around the country.
Exploring South Jersey Wineries
South Jersey is home to some of the best wineries in New Jersey. With over 50 wineries in the state, South Jersey is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. From award-winning wines to picturesque vineyards, South Jersey wineries offer a unique experience for visitors.
Visiting South Jersey wineries is a great way to experience the beauty of the region and taste some of the finest wines in the country. Many wineries offer guided tours of their vineyards and production facilities, allowing visitors to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the winery.
One of the best ways to explore South Jersey wineries is to plan a wine tour. Many tour companies offer wine tours that take visitors to multiple wineries in the region, allowing them to sample a variety of wines and experience the unique atmosphere of each winery. Visitors can also use a map to plan their own self-guided tour of South Jersey wineries.
When visiting South Jersey wineries, visitors can expect to taste a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. Many wineries also offer tastings of their specialty wines, such as dessert wines and fruit wines. Some wineries also offer food pairings with their wines, allowing visitors to enjoy a complete culinary experience.
In addition to wine tastings, many South Jersey wineries offer events and activities throughout the year. From live music to grape stomping, there is always something happening at South Jersey wineries. Visitors can check the winery’s website or social media pages for information on upcoming events.
Famous Wineries and Vineyards
South Jersey is home to some of the most famous wineries and vineyards in the United States. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Renault Winery
Renault Winery is one of the oldest wineries in New Jersey, founded in 1864. It is located in Egg Harbor City and is known for producing some of the finest wines in the region. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and sparkling wines. Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyard and winery, taste some of the wines, and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
Website: https://www.renaultwinery.com/
Address: 72 Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215, United States
Beneduce Vineyards
Beneduce Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Pittstown. The winery has won numerous awards for its wines, which include red, white, and rose varieties. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://beneducevineyards.com/
Address: 1 Jeremiah Ln, Pittstown, NJ 08867, United States
Valenzano Family Winery
Valenzano Family Winery is located in Shamong and has been producing wine since 1996. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can take a tour of the winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://www.valenzanowine.com/
Address: 1090 US-206, Shamong, NJ 08088, United States
Cream Ridge Winery
Cream Ridge Winery is located in Cream Ridge and specializes in producing fruit wines. The winery offers a wide variety of fruit wines, including blueberry, peach, and raspberry. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://www.creamridgewinery.com/
Address: 145 County Road 539 ALLENTOWN NJ – ALSO, Cream Ridge, NJ 08514, United States
White Horse Winery
White Horse Winery is located in Hammonton and is known for producing some of the best red wines in the region. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://www.whitehorsewinery.com/
Address: 106 Hall St, Hammonton, NJ 08037, United States
Tomasello Winery
Tomasello Winery is located in Hammonton and has been producing wine since 1933. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://www.tomasellowinery.com/
Address: 225 N White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037, United States
Laurita Winery
Laurita Winery is located in New Egypt and is known for producing some of the best red and white wines in the region. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://www.lauritawinery.com/
Address: 85 Archertown Rd, New Egypt, NJ 08533, United States
Willow Creek Winery
Willow Creek Winery is located in Cape May and is known for producing some of the best white wines in the region. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://www.willowcreekwinery.com/
Address: 168 Stevens St, West Cape May, NJ 08204, United States
Unionville Vineyards
Unionville Vineyards is located in Ringoes and is known for producing some of the best red wines in the region. The winery offers a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and winery, participate in wine tastings, and enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends.
Website: http://unionvillevineyards.com/
Address: 9 Rocktown Rd, Ringoes, NJ 08551, United States
Wine Varieties and Winemaking
South Jersey wineries offer a diverse range of wine varieties, from reds to whites and everything in between. Each winery has its unique way of making wine, but there are some common techniques used in winemaking.
One of the most popular white wine varieties in South Jersey is Chardonnay. This wine is known for its buttery and oaky flavor, and it pairs well with seafood and poultry dishes. Another popular white wine variety is Riesling, which is known for its floral and fruity aroma. It pairs well with spicy food and Asian cuisine.
When it comes to red wine varieties, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Merlot are among the most popular in South Jersey. Cabernet Franc is known for its spicy and fruity flavor, while Cabernet Sauvignon has a bold and rich taste. Pinot Noir is known for its light-bodied and delicate taste, while Merlot has a smooth and fruity taste.
South Jersey wineries also produce fruit wines, which are made from various fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and peaches. These wines are known for their fruity and sweet taste and are perfect for dessert or as an aperitif. Chambourcin and Vidal Blanc are also popular wine varieties in South Jersey.
Winemaking in South Jersey involves a variety of techniques, including crushing, pressing, fermentation, aging, and bottling. The winemakers carefully monitor the entire process to ensure that the wine is of the highest quality. Some wineries also produce sangria, a refreshing and fruity wine-based drink that is perfect for summer.
Wine Trails in South Jersey
South Jersey is home to several wine trails that take visitors on a tour of local vineyards, each with its unique charm and offerings. Here are some of the most popular wine trails in South Jersey:
Outer Coastal Plain Wine Trail
The Outer Coastal Plain Wine Trail is a collection of wineries located in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA, a federally designated grape-growing region that spans over 2.25 million acres in South Jersey. The trail includes several family-owned wineries that offer a wide range of wines, from dry reds to sweet whites. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, and other events at some of the wineries.
Two Bridges Wine Trail
The Two Bridges Wine Trail takes visitors on a tour of nine local vineyards in five South Jersey towns across two counties. The trail is named after the Delaware Memorial and Commodore Barry Bridges which traverse the nearby Delaware River. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, winery tours, and other activities at each of the vineyards. The trail also includes several restaurants, shops, and other local attractions.
Cape May Wine Trail
The Cape May Wine Trail is a self-guided tour of four wineries located on the Cape May Peninsula. The trail includes several award-winning wineries that offer a variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet whites. Visitors can also enjoy live music, cheese platters, and other events at some of the wineries. The trail also includes several restaurants, shops, and other local attractions.
Pinelands Reserve Wine Trail
The Pinelands Reserve Wine Trail is a collection of wineries located in the Pinelands Reserve, a protected area of the Pine Barrens in South Jersey. The trail includes several wineries that offer a variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet whites. Visitors can also enjoy live music, food trucks, and other events at some of the wineries.
Unique Winery Experiences
South Jersey is home to some of the best wineries in the country, and many of them offer unique experiences that make them stand out from the rest. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, these wineries have something for everyone.
Tastings and Flights
Many wineries in South Jersey offer tastings and flights, allowing visitors to sample a variety of wines and find their favorites. Some wineries even offer guided tastings, where a knowledgeable staff member will walk you through each wine and explain its unique characteristics.
Food Trucks and Menus
Several wineries in South Jersey have food trucks on-site, offering a variety of delicious food options to pair with your wine. Others have full menus, with dishes designed to complement the wines they serve. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal or a quick snack, you’re sure to find something delicious at these wineries.
Festivals and Live Music
Many wineries in South Jersey host festivals and events throughout the year, featuring live music, food vendors, and of course, plenty of wine. These events are a great way to experience the local wine culture and meet other wine enthusiasts.
Reservations and Personal Experiences
Some wineries in South Jersey offer private tastings and experiences, allowing visitors to get a more personalized and intimate look at the winemaking process. These experiences often require reservations, so be sure to plan ahead if you’re interested in this type of experience.
Sunday Picnics and Slushies
Looking for a fun way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon? Several wineries in South Jersey offer picnic areas where you can bring your own food and enjoy a bottle of wine with friends and family. Some wineries even offer slushies, perfect for a hot summer day.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, South Jersey’s wineries have something for everyone. From tastings and food trucks to festivals and personal experiences, these wineries offer unique and memorable experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
Winery Events and Venue Options
South Jersey is home to some of the best wineries in the state, many of which offer unique event spaces and venue options for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a rustic barn setting or a more elegant ballroom, there’s a winery in South Jersey that can accommodate your needs.
One popular venue option is the Renault Winery Resort and Golf, which features a historic winery dating back to 1864. The winery offers a variety of event spaces, including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 250 guests, a rustic barn that can hold up to 200 guests, and a vineyard that can be used for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The venue also features a hotel, golf course, and spa, making it a great option for couples looking for a complete wedding weekend experience.
Another popular option is Valenzano Winery, which offers a variety of event spaces for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. The winery features a spacious ballroom that can accommodate up to 300 guests, as well as a smaller event space that can be used for more intimate gatherings. The venue also offers a variety of catering options, including a farm-to-table menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
For couples looking for a more intimate wedding venue, the Inn at Laurita Winery is a great option. The bed and breakfast features a charming farmhouse that can accommodate up to 16 guests, as well as a vineyard that can be used for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The venue also offers a variety of wedding packages, including a micro-wedding package for couples looking to host a small, intimate wedding.
No matter what your event needs are, South Jersey’s wineries offer a variety of unique venue options that are sure to impress. From rustic barns to elegant ballrooms, there’s a winery in South Jersey that can accommodate your needs and make your special day unforgettable.
Conclusion: Why Visit NJ Wineries
South Jersey, NJ is home to some of the best wineries in the United States. With its diverse range of wines, family traditions, and volume of production, it’s no wonder that New Jersey is known as the Garden State.
Visiting NJ wineries is an excellent way to experience the unique flavors of the region. The northern part of the state is known for its red wines, while the southern part is known for its white wines. Each winery has its own unique flavor profile, making it an exciting adventure to try them all.
In addition to the delicious wines, NJ wineries offer a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Many wineries have tasting rooms where visitors can sample their wines and learn about the winemaking process. Visitors can also take a tour of the vineyards and see where the grapes are grown and harvested.
NJ wineries are also a great way to support local businesses and resources. Many wineries are family-owned and operated, with generations of knowledge and expertise passed down. By visiting these wineries, visitors are supporting the local economy and preserving a family tradition.
In conclusion, visiting the 10 best wineries in South Jersey, NJ is a must-do for any wine lover. With its unique flavors, family traditions, and commitment to local resources, NJ wineries offer an experience that cannot be found anywhere else.