Three New Jersey wineries that offer more than tastings. New Jersey’s summer winery scene bursts with energy, scenic charm, and events that turn a simple tasting into an unforgettable outing. Whether you’re a weekend wanderer or a serious wine lover, the Garden State’s vineyards offer the perfect blend of ambience, artistry, and al fresco fun. Here’s a spotlight on three must-visit vineyards and what they’re serving up in July and August.
🌿 Beneduce Vineyards (Pittstown, Hunterdon County)
A family-owned, sustainable gem since 2009, Beneduce continues to impress with its handcrafted wines and rustic charm.
Summer Highlights:
Live Music Nights on Saturdays throughout July and into early August—think country bands, fan‑vote concerts, soul‑inspired shows, and more.
Events: adults‑only outdoor evenings with lawn games, music, food trucks, and wine. Sunday Picnic Soirées: a relaxed, family‑friendly vibe—bring your blanket. Trivia Nights on select Fridays in July—teams battle for wine prizes with fun pop culture quizzes.
Pair your wine flight with burgers, Latin bites, or gourmet grilled cheese from local food trucks—the schedule changes weekly, so be sure to check ahead before visiting.
🍇 Fox Hollow Vineyards (Central Jersey)
This cozy, weekend-centric vineyard near Holmdel brings locals together with wine, chocolate pairings, and plenty of live music. Fox Hollow is close to the PNC Arts Center.
Summer Events (July & August):
Live Music: Fridays 6–9 pm, and Saturdays & Sundays 2–5 pm—July’s lineup includes De La Vida (July 4), Jo & The Highland Express (July 11), and The Get Down Committee (July 25). Mimosas & Music Brunches: weekend daytime sessions—great for a relaxed mid-summer sip‑and‑social.
Wine & Chocolate Pairings: sweet, intimate tastings on select weekends. Cozy vibe, altitude-charged combo.
The tasting room is adults‑only (21+), with food service until just before closing. It’s peaceful, social, and perfect for a chilled weekend outing.
🌞 Laurita Winery (New Egypt, Outer Coastal Plain AVA)
A diverse destination with live entertainment, themed festivals, and dairy‑based wines (yes, wine made with milk!).
July Activities:
Greek Food Truck Festival: July 12–13, with Greek music, dance, and street eats—ideal for the whole family. 4th of July Weekend (July 3–5): celebrates America with live music, sangria specials, sliders, and $1 off glasses. Luau I Food Truck Festival: July 19–20, bringing island vibes with Polynesian cuisine and tropical entertainment.
August Activities:
Latino Food Truck Festival: August 2–3, packed with Latin rhythms, tacos, empanadas, and happy vibes. Luau II Festival: August 23–24, a return to island flair with more dance, tropical eats, and an easy summertime mood.
Plus, ongoing Dueling Pianos nights, Comedy shows, and even Murder Mystery Dinners—check Laurita’s event page for details.
🍷 Summer in New Jersey Vineyards: What to Expect
Most wineries across the state emphasize live music, food trucks, and themed festivals during July and August. From Greek dancing to island luaus, there’s a taste—or beat—for every palate. Bring sunscreen, picnic blankets, and company picnic setups, and lawn seating are encouraged at spots like Beneduce and Laurita.
Tips for Visiting
Reserve ahead: Popular events fill quickly, especially Beneduce’s group nights and Laurita’s food truck weekends. Transportation: Uber/Lyft may be sparse in rural areas—designate a driver or arrange rides in advance. What to pack: Hats, blankets, portable chairs, and tick spray can enhance your visit. Check cancellations for rain-sensitive events like outdoor concerts or yoga in the vines.
🍾 Final Toast
This summer, New Jersey’s wineries invite you to step off the beaten path and into unforgettable vineyard experiences. From Beneduce’s laid‑back music and games to Fox Hollow’s cozy weekend rhythms, and Laurita’s festive food‑truck extravaganzas, you’ll sip, hum, and unwind under vast summer skies—right here in the Garden State. Dogs? No problem. A good portion of New Jersey wineries are pet-friendly.
So gather friends, grab a glass, and taste summer at these standout vineyards. Santé!