New Jersey’s summer winery scene turns a simple tasting into an unforgettable outing.
Wineries and Vineyards of the Warren Hills AVA
Overview of the Warren Hills AVA The Warren Hills AVA, established in 1988, lies entirely within Warren County, New Jersey, along the Delaware River. Covering approximately 180,000 acres, the region boasts limestone-rich, rocky soils, south- or southeast-facing slopes, and a climate characterized by 175–180 frost-free days—ideal for spirited grape ripening. 🌱 Top 3 Grape Varietals 🍇 Wineries & Vineyards in the Warren Hills AVA Here’s a guide to three wineries operating within Warren Hills—complete with direct links: • Alba Vineyard — A pioneer since 1982 with 42 acres; offers Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling & more. albavineyard.com • Villa Milagro Vineyards — Organic estate (2003); produces Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. villamilagrovineyards.com • Four Sisters Winery — Family-run since 1984; grows Seyval Blanc, Cayuga White, Chambourcin. foursisterswinery.com • Brook Hollow Winery — Established 2007 in Columbia; focuses on Cayuga, Diamond, Frontenac, and Chambourcin. brookhollowwinery.com 🍷 Why Explore Warren Hills? • Rich Terroir: Limestone soils and hillside slopes yield grapes with excellent concentration and lively acidity. • Hybrid & Vinifera Blend: The region balances hardy French-American hybrids (e.g., Seyval Blanc, Cayuga, Chambourcin) with classic vinifera like Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc. • Boutique Experience: With only a handful of wineries, visitors enjoy intimate tastings, scenic picnic areas, and the charm of family-owned businesses. 🍃 Visiting Tips • Many wineries offer weekend tastings, vineyard tours, and picnic-friendly grounds—perfect for a winery crawl experience. • The region’s rolling hills and rural vistas make it great for driving tours, especially during harvest season. Wrapping Up The Warren Hills AVA encapsulates what makes New Jersey’s wine country special: small-scale charm, a blend of hybrid and vinifera excellence, and terroir-driven quality. Whether you’re drawn to crisp Seyval Blanc, vibrant Chardonnay, or elegant Cabernet Franc, a visit here offers a genuine and memorable wine experience. Cheers to discovering the hidden gems of Warren Hills!
When Does Bud Break Happen in New Jersey?
🌱 Bud Break in New Jersey Vineyards: The Start of the Wine Growing Season When Does Bud Break Happen in New Jersey? Each spring, New Jersey vineyards come to life with one of the most important moments in the viticultural calendar: bud break. This critical phase marks the official start of the grapevine growing season and sets the stage for the quality and quantity of that year’s wine vintage. 🌤 What time of year does Bud Break Occur? In most years, bud break in New Jersey occurs between mid-April and early May. The exact timing depends on a few key factors: Regional climate: Southern New Jersey (especially the Outer Coastal Plain AVA) tends to experience bud break earlier due to warmer temperatures. Elevation and latitude: Northern vineyards often see bud break a week or two later. Grape varietals: Early-budding grapes like Pinot Noir or Chardonnay begin first, while late varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon follow later. As soil and air temperatures rise, grapevines awaken from winter dormancy. Tiny, brown buds formed the previous season swell and eventually burst open, revealing small green shoots and leaves. These young shoots are fragile and highly sensitive to late spring frosts, which can damage future grape clusters. 🍇 What Is Bud Break and Why Is It Important? Bud break is the first visible stage in the annual cycle of grapevine growth. It signals that the vines have resumed metabolic activity and begun the process of photosynthesis, drawing energy from sunlight to grow. This phase is crucial because the new shoots will form the fruiting canes that support this year’s grape production. If frost or disease damages them early on, it can significantly reduce yields. 🌿 What Comes Next After Bud Break? Once bud break occurs, grapevines enter a period of rapid shoot growth. During this stage: Shoots elongate quickly, sometimes several inches in just a few days. Leaves unfurl, increasing photosynthetic activity. Flower clusters begin to form, laying the groundwork for grape production. Vineyard crews begin managing vine structure through shoot thinning, canopy management, and nutrient monitoring to ensure healthy, balanced growth. This helps optimize air circulation, reduce the risk of mildew, and improve sun exposure for ripening. 🍷 A Promising Start to the Vintage Year Bud break in New Jersey is more than a seasonal event—it’s the hopeful start of a journey that leads to harvest, fermentation, and eventually, your glass of local wine. Whether you’re a winegrower, enthusiast, or casual taster, this stage is a reminder that every great wine starts with a single bud. Looking to learn more about the New Jersey wine industry? Visit our YouTube page at NJStompsTheGrape. for behind-the-scenes vineyard tours, winemaker interviews, and seasonal updates from across the Garden State. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our content for more insights into New Jersey wine culture. 🍷🌿
A Look Behind the Scenes at Brook Hollow Winery: A Hidden Gem in New Jersey Wine Country
A Look Behind the Scenes at Brook Hollow Winery: A Hidden Gem in New Jersey Wine Country. If you’re a wine lover looking for a unique tasting experience in New Jersey, look no further than Brook Hollow Winery, tucked away in the scenic hills of Columbia, just off Route 80 near the Delaware River. We recently had the chance to go behind the scenes with owner and vintner Paul Ritter, and what we discovered was a story as rich and satisfying as a glass of Brook Hollow red. 🍇 From Basement Hobby to Thriving Vineyard Brook Hollow Winery’s story begins humbly. Paul Ritter started out making wine in his basement as a hobby. That hobby took a big step forward when a friend allowed Paul to use a small, 400-square-foot barn on his farm—aptly named Brook Hollow—to host tastings. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and in 2012, Paul purchased his own vineyard. Just a year later, Brook Hollow Winery officially opened its doors in 2013, and it’s been growing ever since. 📈 Expanding the Dream Over the years, Brook Hollow has expanded significantly. Paul has acquired more of the surrounding land, built a larger tank room for winemaking operations, and even developed a stunning event space across the street. Whether you’re attending a tasting or planning a wedding, Brook Hollow delivers both charm and function. 🍷 100% Jersey Wine, 50% Estate-Grown Brook Hollow sources over half of its grapes right from its 30-acre vineyard in Northern New Jersey, with the remainder coming from vineyards in South Jersey, including Cape May County. All the wine is proudly made from New Jersey-grown grapes. Hybrid varietals thrive in the north and are grown on-site, while vinifera like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from the south. 🛢️ A Unique Aging Approach Brook Hollow does things a bit differently when it comes to aging. Instead of oak barrels, all wines are fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks. To achieve the complexity and depth that oak aging imparts, Paul uses oak chips and other oak alternatives. The result? Wines that are just as bold and flavorful, with a cleaner finish. 🍾 Two Ways to Taste Wine lovers have two tasting options at Brook Hollow: Premium Guided Tasting: Led by Paul or his assistant winemaker, Nick, this experience includes a full flight of wines, a charcuterie board, and a tour through the intimate tank room. It’s ideal for those who want to dig deeper into the winemaking process. Self-Guided Tasting: Choose up to four two-ounce pours from a selection of approximately a dozen wines. Perfect for a laid-back visit or for first-timers discovering New Jersey wine. 🎶 Events, Weddings, and More Brook Hollow isn’t just about wine. The winery hosts live music, craft fairs, seasonal events, and even corporate gatherings throughout the year. Their event space overlooking the vineyard makes for a truly memorable wedding venue for couples who love wine and scenic views. To learn more or plan your visit, check out their website: www.BrookHollowWinery.com Planning a trip to New Jersey wine country? Brook Hollow is proof that the Garden State has some serious winemaking talent—and a welcoming community behind every bottle.
Exploring Some of the Best Sparkling Wines Made in New Jersey
Exploring some of the best sparkling wines made in New Jersey. If you’ve ever popped a bottle of Champagne on New Year’s Eve, then congrats—you’ve had sparkling wine! But did you know that New Jersey produces its very own sparkling wine, and some of it is truly exceptional? Before we dive into where to find it, let’s start with the basics. 💬 What Is Sparkling Wine, Anyway? Sparkling wine is just wine with bubbles. The fizz comes from carbon dioxide, which is created naturally during fermentation (or added later). Depending on how it’s made, it can be super fizzy (like Champagne), lightly sparkling, or somewhere in between. Some are dry, some are sweet, but all have that festive, fizzy feel that makes any occasion feel a little more special, even if it’s just pizza night. Champagne is probably the most famous kind, but only sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France can use that name. So what we call it here depends on where it’s from—Prosecco (Italy), Cava (Spain), and yes, just “sparkling wine” from New Jersey. 🥂 So… New Jersey Makes Sparkling Wine? Yes! And it’s getting noticed. Some New Jersey wineries use the traditional Champagne method (which takes more time but creates finer bubbles), while others go with easier methods that still taste great. Either way, the local grapes, the climate, and the creativity of NJ winemakers are turning out some seriously impressive bottles. 🍾 Where to Try New Jersey Sparkling Wine Here are a few wineries to check out if you want to try some local bubbly: Tomasello Winery (Hammonton) – Their Brut Rosé is made using the traditional method and has even won awards. It’s dry, elegant, and perfect for brunch or celebrations. Known for a wide variety of wines, Tomasello also offers a Sparkling Blueberry Wine, which is a fun, fruity twist on traditional bubbly. Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes) – Unionville makes limited amounts of sparkling wine that’s crisp, classy, and made with the same method used in Champagne. Auburn Road Vineyards (Pilesgrove) – Their Ladybug yellow label is a lively sparkling wine made from Gruner Veltliner grapes. Golden color. Aromas and flavors of golden apple, yellow pear, apricot and lemon curd. It’s refreshing and great for sipping on the porch. 🍽️ What to Eat with It? Good news—sparkling wine is really food-friendly. It goes with salty snacks (think popcorn or potato chips), soft cheeses, seafood, fried foods, and even dessert. It’s basically a party in a glass and works with way more than just cake. 🎉 Final Thoughts If you’ve never had sparkling wine from New Jersey, now’s a great time to try it. You don’t need a fancy occasion—just an open mind and a curiosity for something new. Whether you like it dry or sweet, New Jersey’s wine scene has a bubbly option that’ll surprise you, in the best way. Cheers!
Food and New Jersey Wine Pairing Tips for Beginners
Food and New Jersey Wine Pairing Tips for Beginners. So you’ve picked up a bottle of New Jersey wine—maybe from a weekend trip to a local winery or just out of curiosity—and now you’re wondering: what do I eat with this? Don’t worry. You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy a good pairing. I’m just a regular wine drinker, and I’ve learned a few easy tricks that can help your food and wine taste even better together. Here’s a simple guide for matching some common NJ wines with everyday foods—and where to find them! 🍗 Chardonnay + Chicken or Seafood Chardonnay is super versatile. A crisp, unoaked version goes great with grilled chicken or seafood. If the wine is buttery and oaky, try it with roasted chicken or creamy dishes like pasta Alfredo. Where to find it: Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes) makes an elegant, French-style Chardonnay. Cape May Winery offers both stainless steel and oaked versions, so you can try both styles side by side. 🌮 Riesling + Spicy Food Riesling is perfect for spicy dishes like Thai, Indian, or buffalo wings. A slightly sweet Riesling balances heat without overwhelming the flavors. Where to find it: Tomasello Winery makes both dry and semi-sweet Rieslings, which go great with takeout or homemade spicy meals. Old York Cellars (Ringoes) offers a smooth Riesling that pairs well with spicy BBQ or even sushi. 🍕 Chambourcin + Comfort Food Chambourcin is a smooth, medium-bodied red that’s fruity and not too heavy. It goes with all kinds of comfort food—pizza, pasta, burgers, even chili. Where to find it: White Horse Winery (Hammonton) has a really nice Chambourcin—easy to drink and super food-friendly. Sharrott Winery (Hammonton) also offers a great one that pairs perfectly with pizza night. 🧀 Vidal Blanc + Cheese and Snacks Vidal Blanc is light, refreshing, and sometimes a little sweet. It’s great for casual snacks, cheese boards, or even fruit and salty pretzels. Where to find it: Valenzano Winery (Shamong) makes a bright Vidal Blanc that’s easy to sip. DiMatteo Vineyards (Hammonton) has a fun, tropical version perfect for a picnic. Final Tip: Just Try Stuff Don’t stress over perfect pairings. Wine is supposed to be fun! Grab a bottle, make something you like, and see what works. New Jersey wineries are doing amazing things with both classic and hybrid grapes, and the best way to learn what you like is to taste and experiment. Whether you’re planning a dinner or just snacking on the couch, there’s a Jersey wine that fits. 🍷
Check Out Saddlehill Cellars: Wine, Food & One Very Special Horse
Check out Saddlehill Cellars: wine, food & one very special horse. A horse is a horse, of course… but at Saddlehill, there’s also wine, food, and views that make it a must-visit. Located in Voorhees, NJ, this stunning winery sits on the historic Stafford family farm, dating back to the Revolutionary War. Amy & Bill Green have turned it into the perfect blend of vineyard, pasture, restaurant, and charm. Saddlehill: More Than Just a Winery You’ve heard the phrase, “a horse is a horse, of course”? Well, at Saddlehill, a horse is a horse — but with wine and food involved. That horse is Marley, and seeing Marley and friends grazing in the pasture while sipping on a crisp white made me feel like I was on a country ranch. Honestly, Saddlehill is the kind of place you didn’t know you were missing — and now, I can’t stop telling people to go. But beyond the charming horses and relaxing vineyard views, this place has serious roots. Thanks to Amy and Bill Green, it’s now a stunning blend of preserved New Jersey history and modern enjoyment. They’ve taken great care to honor the farm’s heritage while building a space that’s warm, welcoming, and worth the trip. A Tasting to Remember (Even If You’re Not a Wine Enthusiast) We signed up for a guided tasting, and our tasting guide, Lisa, was fantastic — super knowledgeable, friendly, and open to questions. You get to pick six wines from the menu, perfect for someone like me who likes to dabble in new varietals. I started with a red, tried a rosé, moved to a white, and even ended with a mead (which I didn’t expect to like, but did). I won’t tell you which ones were my favorites, because the fun part is discovering your own. But I will say: I now understand why people get excited about wine tastings. It’s not about being fancy — it’s about finding what you like, while enjoying good company and even better views. The Restaurant: Come Hungry Let’s talk about the restaurant, because wow. Whether you’re ordering small plates to share or going full-on entree mode, the food is next-level. We sat inside the ranch-style dining room, but the outdoor patio was tempting — shaded, peaceful, and overlooking the vineyard and the animals. Everything we tried was fresh, beautifully made, and honestly just delicious. This isn’t one of those places that leans on the “winery vibe” and forgets about the food. Saddlehill delivers on both fronts. And Then There’s Marley… One of the absolute highlights of the day? Meeting Marley up close. Marley is more than just a horse — Marley is the heart and soul of Saddlehill. Friendly, calm, and adored by everyone who works there, Marley adds a whole extra layer of charm to the experience. And yes, we took a few selfies. Final Thoughts: Even If You Don’t Know Wine, Go If you’re like me and don’t speak fluent “wine,” don’t worry. Saddlehill Cellars isn’t about being an expert — it’s about enjoying yourself. Between the beautiful setting, the thoughtful wines, the incredible food, and the four-legged hosts in the pasture, this place has something for everyone. So whether you’re a wine snob, a wine newbie, or just someone looking for a great day trip, Saddlehill is a must-visit.
Blue Cork Winery: A Scenic Family-Owned Vineyard in New Jersey
Discover Blue Cork Winery: A Hidden Gem in New Jersey Wine Country. Looking for a relaxing weekend escape, a fun date idea, or something different to do with friends? Blue Cork Winery in New Jersey might be just what you need. This beautiful, family-run vineyard offers scenic views, delicious wines, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, even if you know nothing about wine. A Picture-Perfect Setting for a Day Out Blue Cork Winery is located on a peaceful 7-acre vineyard that’s perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re visiting with friends or a special someone, their outdoor patio overlooking the vines is a dreamy spot to sip, chat, and enjoy the day. Family-Owned and Rooted in Tradition Owned by Michelle and Angelo Tantaros, Blue Cork was born in 2010 out of a passion for winemaking and family values. Their first vintage, a Chardonnay, was released in 2018. Since then, the vineyard has grown into a warm, welcoming space where their four children also help keep things running. Meet the Winemaker: A Blend of Passion and Education One of the standout parts of a visit to Blue Cork is meeting Dimetri Tantaros, Michelle and Angelo’s son, and the head winemaker. Dimetri doesn’t just work the vines—he studied Viticulture and Wine Technology, meaning he knows how to grow grapes, craft wine, and understand all the science behind it. If you get the chance to chat with him during a tasting, do it—you’ll learn a lot, even if you’re a wine newbie. Natural, Estate-Grown Wines Aged to Perfection At Blue Cork, the wine is made European-style, meaning no chemicals, pesticides, or artificial shortcuts. Every wine is estate-grown (made from grapes grown right there), and many are aged in French oak barrels for up to four years. Their state-of-the-art steel tanks (custom-made in Italy) help keep the wine clear and fresh. They even help reduce the chances of wine-related headaches—a bonus for casual wine drinkers. Try Something New: A Vintner’s Select Pet Nat Dimetri has also launched his first label at the winery called Vintner’s Select. The debut wine is Pet Nat, a slightly sparkling, naturally fermented blend of Traminette and Petit Verdot. It’s a great option if you’re curious to try something unique but approachable. Live Music, Wine Flights, and More Blue Cork isn’t just about wine—it’s about the experience. On many weekends, you can enjoy live music on the terrace, taste a variety of wines through curated flights, or just kick back and take in the vineyard views. Planning a celebration? Blue Cork also hosts private events and parties. Whether it’s a birthday, engagement party, or small wedding, the setting is both elegant and relaxed. Can’t Visit? They Deliver Nationwide! If you fall in love with their wines (and you probably will), you don’t have to wait for your next visit. Blue Cork ships their wines across the U.S., so you can enjoy a bottle from the comfort of your home, no matter where you live. Final Thoughts: Why Blue Cork Winery Should Be on Your List, even if you’re not a wine expert, Blue Cork Winery is the kind of place that makes you appreciate the craft behind every bottle. With a warm, family feel and a commitment to natural winemaking, it’s a must-visit destination in New Jersey wine country. So grab your favorite people, plan a day trip, and let Blue Cork introduce you to a whole new way to enjoy wine—no fancy knowledge required. If you enjoyed this post, please like, comment, and above all, share.
Why Autumn Lake Winery is the Perfect Year-Round New Jersey Escape
Why Autumn Lake Winery is the Perfect Year-Round New Jersey Escape. Let’s be real—not everyone is a wine expert. But that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a relaxing afternoon at one of New Jersey’s most scenic spots: Autumn Lake Winery in Williamstown. This place is the perfect blend of laid-back vibes, nature views, and sips you’ll enjoy (even if you don’t know what “tannins” are). You’re surrounded by beauty no matter where you sit—inside the cozy tasting room with a view of the lake, or out on the patio under the trees, glass in hand, with live music setting the tone. The atmosphere is chill, the people are friendly, and the wine? Let’s talk about that. Award-Winning Wines and a Little History Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, you’ll appreciate the fact that Autumn Lake’s wines are award-winning. One standout? Their Petit Verdot, which earned the Governor’s Cup. Not too shabby, right? The winery planted its first vines in 2012, and its first grape harvest—Cabernet Franc—came in 2014. Owner and winemaker Mark Hernandez still has one of the original bottles from 2016, proudly tucked away like a piece of history. Today, the vineyard spans 12 acres and is home to 17 grape varieties, with two more (Nebbiolo and Barbera) on the way. During our visit, Mark gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the vineyard. We saw the early growing season and learned to recognize different grapes just by their baby buds. What the Heck is Trentina? Mark also introduced us to Trentina, a newer Italian grape variety that’s exclusive to the Outer Coastal Plain region here in NJ. It’s a cross between Muscato Ottonel and Malvasia di Candia Aromatica—don’t worry, I hadn’t heard of them either. What does it taste like? Mark says, “candy and flowers in a glass,” and honestly—he nailed it. It’s light, aromatic, and super easy to drink. Even if you’re a wine newbie, this one might win you over. Inside the Winemaking Process After walking the vines, we headed into the tank room to see where the magic happens. One of the stainless-steel tanks was frosty on the outside—turns out, that’s part of the cold stabilization process, which helps keep wines clear and sediment-free. Autumn Lake uses this method for their whites and lighter reds, while the fuller-bodied reds age in neutral oak barrels for over a year. Mark’s even experimenting with toasted oak staves to enhance flavor in older barrels. Science aside, the result is wine that’s smooth, clean, and thoughtfully made. Plan Your Visit Autumn Lake Winery is open year-round, and trust me—it’s worth the trip no matter the season. With food trucks, live music, and some of the friendliest staff around, it’s an ideal spot to unwind. You don’t need to know the difference between a Pinot Noir and a Cabernet to enjoy yourself here. Check out their wine list and upcoming events at AutumnLakeWinery.com—and don’t be surprised if you leave with a few bottles for the road.
Bellview Winery is a Must Visit New Jersey Winery
A Day at Bellview Winery: Where Family Roots Meet Great Wine Bellview Winery is a must visit New Jersey wInery. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix warm hospitality with seriously good wine, you’ll find the answer at Bellview Winery in Landisville, New Jersey. The winery and vineyard are located in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA in southern New Jersey. Bellview isn’t just a Winery, it’s a Family My fiancé and I recently went on a private tour with Jim Quarella, the winery’s owner and vintner. Bellview isn’t just a winery — it’s a family farm that’s been around for four generations, starting with Jim’s great-grandparents. Even though Bellview has been growing grapes for 25 years, their first harvest was in 2020, and they opened their tasting room in 2021. They started small with classic grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Chambourcin. Today, they grow over 20 different kinds of grapes on 50 acres — and every bottle is made with grapes grown right there on the property. Jim took us on a walk through the vineyard and explained a little bit about how the grapes grow. We were there during a stage called “shoot growth,” where tiny grapes start to form right after the vines wake up for the season. It’s one of the first big steps in the growing process and pretty cool to see up close! Dandelion Wine Happens Here Next, we headed into the tank room where all the winemaking magic happens. Jim showed us a really unique wine they make called Dandelion Wine — it’s a sweet dessert wine based on his great-aunt’s old recipe. It’s one of their signature wines and definitely something you don’t see every day! Inside the tank room, there were huge stainless-steel tanks everywhere, some wrapped with thermal jackets to help control the temperature during fermentation. Bellview also uses oak barrels (but not the super-strong, smoky kind) to gently age their red wines and give them a smooth, spiced flavor. After the tour, we sat down for a tasting led by Jim and Bellview’s head winemaker, David. Every wine we tried was made from their estate-grown grapes. We sampled a bunch of different wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Grüner Veltliner, Traminette, Chambourcin, Blaüfrankisch, Cabernet Franc, and a new grape called San Marco, which was originally developed in Italy and recently brought to New Jersey with the leadership of Larry Coia and the Outer Coastal Plain Vineyard Association. Jim explained that San Marco is a cross between two Italian grape varieties and was created in 1993. It’s new to the area and something they’re excited about. Events, Parties and Live Music all Year Long Bellview isn’t just about wine — they host events year-round. Coming up soon are celebrations for Mother’s Day and Cinco de Mayo, plus they have live music every Friday and Saturday night. Bring a blanket, grab a bottle of your favorite wine, and just relax. If you’re looking for a laid-back, welcoming winery experience (without needing to know all the fancy wine lingo), Bellview is the place to check out. You must experience this winery and their fantastic handcrafted wines for yourself this year. You can find out more at bellviewwinery.com. Better yet… Check out the YouTube video. Have you ever been to Bellview Winery? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments.