Garden State Wine Growers Association

Governor Phil Murphy Friday night, Nov 16, awarded the 2018 Garden State Wine Growers Association’s (GSWGA) Governor's Cups for Best Red Wine to Amalthea Cellars for its 2015 Legend’s Edition Europa I; Best White Vinifera Wine to Fox Hollow Vineyards 2015 Autumn Harvest and Best Dessert wine to Beneduce Vineyards 2015 White Space Riesling.  Amalthea Cellars was also awarded Best of Show in the NJ Wine Competition with a score of 97.

The Governor’s Cups and Best of Show Awards for the 2018 NJ Wine Competition were awarded at a ceremony at the Governor’s residence at Drumthwacket in Princeton.

At the event the Governor and First Lady Tammy Murphy announced that while their administration is in office only New Jersey wines would be served at Drumthwacket and they hope future Governors would do the same.

Speaking at the Governor’s Cup awards ceremony, Governor Murphy said, “I am honored to award the 2018 Governor’s Cup and the Best of Show Awards to some of New Jersey’s finest wineries.  Our wine industry is quickly gaining national attention in major wine competitions and wine publications which is a testimony to all the great work of our winemakers and vineyard owners here in New Jersey.”

The 2018 NJ Wine Competition was conducted for the first time by the nationally renowned staff of the Beverage Tasting Institute in Chicago.  Wines were judged as they were submitted all spring and summer with judging ending August 1.  There were 150 wines entered into the Competition.

The complete list of winners:

Amalthea Cellars, Atco: 2015 Legend’s Edition Europa I – Best Red Wine, Governors Cup, Best of Show – 97 points

Fox Hollow Vineyards, Holmdel: 2015 Autumn Harvest – Best Vinifera White Wine, Governor’s Cup – 94 points

Beneduce Vineyards, Pittstown: 2015 White Space Riesling – Best Dessert Wine, Governors Cup – 94 points

 Cape May Winery, Cape May: 2011 Isaac Smith Port – Best Fortified Wine – 89 points

Bellview Winery, Landisville: 2015 Estate Bottled Chambourcin – Best Hybrid Red Wine – 93 points (tie)

Plagido’s Winery, Hammonton: 2016 Estate Bottled Chambourcin – Best Hybrid Red Wine – 93 points (tie)

Beneduce Vineyards, Pittstown: 2017 Row’s End Dry Rose – Best Rose Wine – 92 points

William Heritage Winery, Mullica Hill: 2015 Estate Reserve Brut Rose – Best Sparkling Wine – 91 points

White Horse Winery, Hammonton: 2017 Estate Vidal Blanc – Best Hybrid White Wine – 93 points

Tomasello Winery, Hammonton: Non-vintage Cranberry Wine – Best Fruit Wine 94 points

“Out of more than 8,400 reviews, 97 points was the highest score BTI awarded of which only nine wines received the score. Amalthea Cellars 2015 Legend’s Edition Europa I, a Bordeaux-style blend from New Jersey, was one of those wines,” said Jerald O'Kennard, Director, TASTINGS®/Beverage Testing Institute.

The Amalthea Cellars 2015 Legend’s Edition Europa I tasting notes by BTI describe the wine as follows: “Inviting aromas and flavors of dried sour cherries, beets, carrots and root vegetables baked with fresh herbs in a clay pot, and toffee with a satiny, vibrant, dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a warming, complex, very long chocolate orange peels, creme Anglaise, spiced nuts, and minerals finish with fine, silky tannins and moderate oak. A stunning red blend with cascading waves of savory and ripe flavors and nuances that delight the palate.”

This award marks the second consecutive Governor’s Cup for Fox Hollow Vineyards, who received its first in 2017 for its 2014 Cabernet Franc.

Also honored at the event was Dr. Gary Pavlis of Rutgers who received the inaugural Viticulturist of the Year Award by the Garden State Wine Growers Association. Dr. Pavlis, the Atlantic County Ag Agent, organized the NJ Wine Competition for many years and has helped the majority of new wineries get started in the state.

According to a 2017 economic impact study, New Jersey’s wine industry had a $323 million economic impact on the state in 2016, an increase of 40% from the $231 million economic impact reported in 2011. Wine production increased by 73.1% from 405,954 gallons in 2011 to 702,671 in 2016. The number of wineries in the state increased from 38 to 50, and wine, grapes and related industries accounted for 1,979 jobs (up 35.4% from 1,462 in 2011) according to the study with the majority of the jobs being in the actual wineries and vineyards with an associated payroll of $85.57 million.  Grape bearing acres also grew 23/3% from 1,283 to 1,582 acres.

Uncork this holiday weekend as the Garden State Wine Growers Association once again presents its Holiday Wine Trail Weekend November 23-25 at wineries throughout New Jersey.

 Starting Black Friday and continuing throughout the weekend, wineries from Sussex County to Cape May will be hosting their own special entertainment inside their tasting rooms.

Participating wineries will give away holiday grapevine wreaths and decorative ornaments to dress the wreath with. Wine trail travelers will receive a wreath and ornament at their first winery stop of the weekend, and then additional ornaments from each participating winery visited thereafter Friday through Sunday. Wreaths and ornaments are available only at participating wineries and a limited supply exists.

 The diverse array of entertainment available at our state’s wineries includes: DiBella Winery in Woolwich Twp. offering a complimentary grape vine wreath and DiBella winery ornament and during this wine trail weekend only, get $1 off a glass of wine or bottle purchase when you bring back a DiBella winery glass to use on your visit. DiMatteo Vineyards in Hammonton is hosting a Victorian Choir dressed in period costumes to sing old fashioned Christmas carols on Black Friday from 3pm-5pm; Bellview Winery in Landisville will be participating in the wreath giveaway as well as distributing their own homemade ornaments while supplies last.  Plagido’s Winery in Hammonton will have two wine tasting options: $8.00 wine tastings and a $15.00 tasting with a Chocolate Truffle Flight.

 Four Sisters Winery in Belvidere will be open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM all three days. There you will receive a grapevine wreath while supplies last. Holiday Wine Trail at Four Sisters Winery November 23rd - 25th 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM   Cafe Vino will be open 11-5 pm. Enjoy heated tents, gift baskets, custom wine labels and wine related gifts available for gift giving and complimentary wine tastings.

All turkey-ed out? Join Coda Rossa Winery in Franklinville for delicious homemade lasagna, and selection of both dry and sweet wines. Theywill also be offering a Winter Spice wine (limited availability). $12 per person, including a logo glass. Open Friday and Saturday, 11-6pm, Sunday 11-5pm.  Coda Rossa will also be one of the many wineries offering a grapevine wreath while supplies last.

 Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes will give away complimentary grapevine wreaths and holiday ornaments (one per couple, while supplies last) to all wine enthusiasts travelling the trail. A complimentary tour of the winery and vineyard walk (weather permitting) will be offered each day at 2:30pm. Jonathan Savage will play acoustic rock covers in the tasting room on Sunday the 25th from 1-4pm. An assortment of artisan cheeses and crostini are available for purchase. Guests are encouraged to visit the other participating wineries in the area and around the state. Regionally, collect ornaments from: Beneduce Vineyards (Pittstown) Terhune Orchards (Lawrence) Old York Cellars (Ringoes) Hopewell Valley Vineyards (Hopewell).

 At Terhune Orchards in Princeton, try a wine sampling and warm up with hot mulled wine. Sample delicious Gift Basket "ingredients" - homemade baked goods, apple butter and more and on Sunday enjoy live music from 1pm-4pm. Terhune Orchards has special apple seed ornaments for your collection. 

 Ventimiglia Vineyards in Wantage in Sussex County will offer their traditional, complimentary Holiday Antipasti, and finger snacks to accompany their wine tastings. Tasting Fee will be $10 per guest.  Villa Milagro Vineyards in Finesville offers a little Feliz Navidad. Luminarios will light the Cantina where tiny tacos, buñuelos and other Mexican treats along with our holiday wines - Gracias, Feliz Navidad and Mi Carino will be served. Bring your wreath from GSWGA for a special ornament. Tasting $10 includes gift glass.

 Working Dog Winery in East Windsor features live music by Williamsboy on Friday, Austin Vuolo on Saturday, and Dave Kelly on Sunday.  In addition, Tower Dogs food truck will be there Saturday.  Wreaths will also be given away while they last.

 Natali Vineyards in Cape May Courthouse will give away a holiday wreath and ornament. They will also offer tours, tastings and wine by the glass or bottle. Complimentary gourmet cheese and crackers will be served all weekend.  Jessie Creek Winery in Cape May Courthouse will also giveaway wreaths and ornaments and on Saturday Nov 24th enjoy their Annual Makers Day + Small Business Saturday Event featuring local artisans, crafters, makers, bakers and more.

 4JGs Winery & Vineyard in Colts Neck will feature Holiday Shopping and Sipping giving guests the chance to enjoy their award winning wines. Holmdel’s Fox Hollow Vineyards will be open for tastings Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11am-6:30pm.          

 Cape May Winery in Cape May will have their Tap Room Happy Hour Friday from 5pm-8pm featuring live music, full tapas kitchen, tapas board & flight pairing special, and $2 off the special rotating red & white 1L carafes; Vines to Wines Tour Saturdays at 2pm - A behind the scenes look at the production process all the while tasting a variety of award-winning wines. $25 per person and Flights & Bites Tour Sunday at 11 is an in-depth exploration of the sensory world of Cape May Winery. $45 per person. Call 609.884.1169 or email [email protected] to book

 Chestnut Run Farm in Pilesgrove, which is open only on trail weekends, will have their wine shop open on Friday and Saturday of the Holiday Wine Trail Weekend.

 At Hawk Haven Vineyard in Rio Grande in Cape May, relax by the cozy fireplace, peruse a selection of wine related gifts and accessories, and stock up on your favorite wines. Visit the wine bar for an educational tasting of a selection of our wines and our current releases. Vineyard and winery tours will also be offered on Saturday. Insider Tip: Ask for Hawk Haven’s special collectible holiday ornament. During this time period we are collecting donations of new, unwrapped toys and children’s outerwear. Each person who brings a donation will receive a free wine tasting!

 White Horse Winery in Hammonton will be offering special Wine Trail Weekend tastings in the Tasting Room, as well as Live Music all weekend, and delicious food truck fare. The first 50 guests each day will receive a special 2018 White Horse Winery ornament, to bring a little White Horse to your holiday décor.

 Summit City Winery in Glassboro will have live music from 7-10 pm on Friday and Saturday. When visiting William Heritage Winery in Mullica Hill during Holiday Wine Trail Weekend customers ordering 12 bottles of wine will receive a $25 gift card and $20% off entire wine purchase. William Heritage will be offering holiday wreaths and a personalized ornament for this wreath. 

 At Sharrott Winery in Hammonton guests are encouraged to skip the mall this Black Friday and shop with them. Wine is the perfect holiday gift; one size fits all. Or give them a Sharrott Winery gift card and let them choose. Pre-made holiday gift baskets are also available. After all that shopping, enjoy a wine tasting in their festive Tasting Room; then relax in the Wine Bar with live music, wine bar menu, wine by the glass or bottle, and new flights. Sharrott Winery will also participate in the Holiday Grape Vine Wreath and ornament giveaway (while supplies last).

 Tomasello Winery in Hammonton will be giving out ornaments and wreaths and having a chocolate fountain all three days. Valenzano Winery in Shamong will offer a Buy 1 Case – get the 2nd Case 50% off. Valenzano Winery's 'Holiday Wine Trail Weekend' will be filled with wine tasting, great live music performances and local craft vendors. Hopewell Valley Vineyards in Pennington will give away wreaths while Old York Cellars in Ringoes will have live music and provide guests a complimentary tree ornament while supplies last.

 Iron Plow Vineyards in Columbus will have musical performances on Friday night and Saturday and Sunday afternoons.  Enjoy a wine flight, wine by the glass/bottle and an artisan cheese & charcuterie menu. Salem Oak Vineyards in Pedricktown will have wine tastings and giveaway wreaths. 

 The GSWGA is a coalition of over 50 wineries, grape growers and vineyard owners across New Jersey, dedicated to raising the quality and awareness of the New Jersey wine industry.

Just as the harvest season winds down this fall, the 2nd annual After the Harvest Wine & Food event will headline the Culinary Arts Institute at Hudson County Community College in Jersey City on Saturday, October 27 from 1-5 p.m. when member wineries of the Garden State Wine Growers Association and the Culinary Arts Institute and Hudson County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development team up for this fall event.

 Unlike many of the outdoor festivals in the state, the After the Harvest event will be an intimate experience, allowing for engagement with winery representatives to discuss the wines being sampled. Educational wine tutorials will also be held. Musical entertainment, vendors and other refreshments will be on the docket.

Participating wineries will be Amalthea Cellars (Atco), Cedar Rose Vineyards (Vineland), Tomasello Winery (Hammonton), Valenzano Winery (Shamong) and Villa Milagro Vineyards (Finesville).

There will be a maximum of 300 tickets sold for this event. Each ticket is $25 and entitles you to tastings, wine seminars and a FREE wine glass, which you will pick up on the day of the event (proper ID required). There is also a non-drinker ticket priced at $10 available. Tickets for the event can be purchased online at http://tinyurl.com/AfterTheHarvest. All attendees must be at least 21 years old. Advance sales are encouraged as there will only be a limited supply of tickets sold the day of the event for the price of $30. Attendees will be admitted at 12.30 pm and wine tasting will begin at 1 pm

A non-vintage Cranberry wine from Tomasello Winery in Hammonton and a 2017 Vidal Blanc from Sharrott Winery of Winslow Township earned Best of Category honors in The Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association’s (ASWA) 14th annual wine competition held earlier this month at the Marriott Tysons Corner.

Tomasello Winery’s NV Cranberry wine won Best of Category for sweet fruit wines and Sharrott Winery’s 2017 Vidal Blanc won for Vidal Blanc.

ASWA’s Wine Competition is the largest in the nation focused exclusively on East Coast wines. A panel of nineteen judges scored 483 wines made in the eastern US. This year’s Best of Show wine, CrossKeys Vineyard Fiore 2017, from the Shenendoah Valley AVA, was selected from 33  Best of Category Winners.

The 2018 ASWA Wine Competition issued 72 gold medals, 170 silver medals and 152 Bronze medals.  Competition Chairman Dave Barber says, “A panel of well-qualified independent judges from various levels within the industry, and hailing from several east coast states and from as far afield as San Francisco and Alabama, evaluated red and rosé wines on day one, and whites on day two.” The final round, after scores were tallied for all Best of Category entries, took place Sunday afternoon.

New Jersey wines took five gold medals in the competition. Earning gold were:

2017 Halcyon by Autumn Lake Winery in Williamstown

2015 Chambourcin by Bellview Winery in Landisville

2015 Nebbiolo y Natali Vineyard in Cape May Courthouse

2017 Vidal Blanc by Sharrott Winery, Hammonton

NV Cranberry  by Tomasello Winery, Hammonton

New Jersey wineries also earned 11 silver medals and 14 bronze medals in the competition. The complete list is below.

Silver Medals by New Jersey wineries:

2015 Chamourcin by Autumn Lake Winery, Williamstown

2016 Blaufrankisch by Bellview Winery, Landisville

2017 Traminette by Bellview Winery, Landisville

NV Porto Rosso by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

NV Stony Brook Blush, by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

2017 Courthouse Blush by Natali Vineyard, Cape May Courthouse

2015 Tempranillo by Natali Vineyard, Cape May Courthouse

2015 Trio by Sharrott Winery, Hammonton

NV Blueberry by Tomasello Winery, Hammonton

2015 BDX by William Heritage Vineyard, Mullica Hill

2015 Brut Rose by William Heritage Vineyard, Mullica Hill

Bronze Medals by New Jersey Wineries:

2016 Chardonnay by Autumn Lake Winery, Williamstown

2017 Lakeside Blanc by Autumn Lake Winery, Williamstown

2015 ORF by Autumn Lake Winery, Williamstown

NV Leo by Bellview Winery, Landisville

2015 Chambourcin by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

NV Dolce Vita by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

NV Pinot Grigio by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

NV Porto Bianco by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

2015 Rosso Della Vale by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

NV White Merlot by Hopewell Valley Vineyards, Pennington

2016 Cedar Hammock by Natali Vineyard, Cape May Courthouse

2015 Chambourcin by Sharrott Winery

2014 Palmaris Petite Verdot by Tomasello Winery

  Cream Ridge, NJ (July 9, 2017) –The Garden State Wine Growers Association will host its annual Barrel Trail Weekend on Saturday and Sunday July 14-15 at participating wineries across the state. Visitors to participating New Jersey wineries and vineyards will have the opportunity to sample future award-winning vintages direct from the barrel room; enjoy wine tastings; new wine releases; tour the vineyards; and hear discussions on the winemaking process from wine makers. 

 “Barrel Trail weekend introduces winemaking to the general public as they learn how wine develops and the different nuances and styles that winemakers use to craft their product,” said Tom Cosentino, Executive Director of the Garden State Wine Growers Association.

All New Jersey wineries will be open for tastings and activities on Barrel Trail Weekend. To find a winery in your area, visit www.newjerseywines.com. Updated listings of Barrel Trail events are available at https://www.newjerseywines.com/events/category/trail-weekends/

Some of the activities being planned at wineries include:

Autumn Lake Winery in Williamstown will offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience and sampling of wines right from the barrel. July 14th from 11-6pm & July 15th from 12-5pm, be the first to taste future vintages with the winemakers. For just $6 per person, meet their Albariño '17, Chardonnay '17, Blaufränkisch '16, Cabernet Sauvignon '16, along with the next batch of Port - with special 25% discounts on pre-ordered case lots. The current wine list will also be offered with 7 tastings for $6 and souvenir wine glass. Enjoy your favorite by the glass or bottle with live music (Sat 2-5 Jazz with Jude & Gary/Sun 1-4 Acoustic classics with John Rossi), and a freshly-made cheese plate.

Bellview Winery, Landisville - - Have you ever tried a wine in progress? You’re in luck! On Barrel Tasting Weekend you can sample the upcoming 2017 vintage of Cabernet Franc straight out of the barrel. Along with this young wine Bellview will be sampling aged vintages of Cabernet Franc as a flight so that you can experience how this unique varietal develops over time. This will be the only release of the 2007 and 2012 Cabernet Franc to the public, while supplies last. These wines will only be available for tasting during Barrel Tasting Weekend for $6 per person. Along with an exclusive wine preview the vineyard tour trailer will be hooked up and rolling through the vineyard for your vine viewing pleasure. Trailer rides are free of charge, on a first come first served basis, and will be offered from 12pm-5pm. In addition to this special tasting they will also be pouring samples from the everyday wine list for $6 per person which includes a souvenir wine glass to take home.

Natali Vineyards in Cape May Courthouse is having a Barrel Tasting with the Winemaker. For $10, spend the afternoon in the barrel room with the Winemaker for an educational tour and barrel tasting.  Taste the Winemaker’s favorite wines straight from the barrel paired with gourmet cheese and crackers.

Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery in Cape May has their daily winery tour. Taste through their wines as your guide leads you through every step of the wine making process from the vineyard to the vast steel tanks and French oak barrels. Discover what makes each wine unique and how our wine maker achieves every flavor and aroma. Learn the history of Hawk Haven while you sip. The tour concludes with a selection of gourmet cheeses to enjoy on the vineyard view crush pad.  Go online at hawkhavenvineyard.com or call (609) 846-7347 for reservations. $25 per person includes tour, wine tasting, cheese, and souvenir glass.

Sharrott Winery in Hammonton will offer Barrel Tastings at 12:30, 2:00, and 3:30 pm both days. here you will taste unfinished barrel samples of their dry red wines side by side with the latest released vintages. You will learn to taste wine just like the winemakers do. Barrel Tasting is $12 per person (free Wine Club Member tasting applies); please check in at their new tasting room and arrive 15 minutes prior to the tasting to secure your spot.

  At Hopewell Valley Vineyards  in Pennington, special tastings from the barrel will be available each day at 2 & 4PM. Regular wine tastings :$6 +tax for 6 samples or $10 +tax for 10 samples (both include etched HVV wine glass).

Tomasello Winery in Hammonton on Saturday & Sunday, July 14th & 15th, from 1-5pm will feature 20% off their Palmaris wines, specialty cocktails made with Tomasello wines, martinis, beer, wine, light fare and Tapas. Pricing is a la carte pricing. Tickets not required.

At Villa Milagro Vineyards in Finesville July 14-15, 1-5pm, tour the “Chill Room” where you will learn how they finish, age and bottle wines using no additives. (Check website for tour times)  Sample future vintages directly from the barrel then sample our currently bottled wines.  $10 includes tour, wine tasting, appetizer plate and gift glass.

Working Dog Winery in East Windsor on July 14-15 will offer a day filled with vineyard tours (weather permitting), wine education, and award-winning, estate-bottled wine. Admission is $5. In addition, there will be a Premium Tasting (including a barrel sample) offered for an additional charge.  Musical entertainment will be supplied by the band, Cat Moon Daddy, on Saturday and on Sunday Rob Messina’s band, Rhyme & Reason, will perform.  Food trucks will also participate including Tower Dogs on the 14th and Gyros to Go on the 15th. 

Chestnut Run Farms in Pilesgrove, which is only open to the public on wine trail weekends, will offer tastings from noon to 5 pm each day. Plagido's Winery in Hammonton, 4JGs Winery in Colts Neck, Monroeville Vineyard & Winery in Monroeville, and Ventimiglia Vineyards in Wantage will also be hosting Barrel Trail events.

April Ushers in Showers, Festivals and Great Winery Events

 While March weather was as unpredictable as ever, April hopefully, despite the early snow, will bring just its usual showers and plenty of sunshine for all the activities our wineries have scheduled this month.

From pig roasts to country line dancing to musical entertainment, a great array of events await you at our wineries throughout New Jersey.

In addition to our winery events, April also ushers in festival season. One of the first big events of the year is the 3rd annual Uncork Spring  Wine Festival at Mercer County Park in West Windsor, NJ, Saturday April 28 and Sunday April 29 from noon to 5 pm featuring 14 NJ wineries. The event is promoted by GPS Inc.

 Wineries participating are: Auburn Road Vineyard, Cava Winery, Chestnut Run Farm, DiMatteo Vineyards, Four Sisters Winery, Monroeville Vineyard & Winery, Plagido's Winery, Sharrott Winery, Southwind Vineyard & Winery, Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery, Tomasello Winery, Valenzano Winery, Villari Vineyards and Wagonhouse Winery.

 Tickets for the event are $15 in advance and $20 on-site for sampling 21+ and includes a wine glass. Non-sampling tickets (21+) are $5 and available at the gate only. Click here to purchase tickets.

Food truck vendors at the event include:  My Four Suns, Empanada Guy, Mexi-Flip Taco Truck, The Flying Pie Guy and Dan's Waffles. Live musical entertainment will feature Mario & The Slyders on Saturday and Goldenseal on Sunday. Guests will also be able to browse the wares of many artisans and crafters and there will be a load of fun activities for the kids including a bounce house and face painting. To learn more about the event visit http://www.newjerseywineevents.com/uncork-spring-2018.html

Mother's Day Wine Trail Returns May 12-13

 Our annual Mother's Day Wine Trail returns Mother's Day weekend May 12-13. Take that special lady or ladies in your life out for a real treat at our wineries.  

Select April Winery Events

4 JGs Orchards & Vineyard, 127 Hillsdale Road, Colts Neck, NJ 07722, 908.930.8066

Winery is currently closed.  We will be open next weekend

HAPPY HOUR

Friday, April 13th 5-8pm

 ROSE ALL DAY WEEKEND April 14-15 from 12-5pm

Join us as we celebrate spring with the delicate aromas and tastes of Rose Wine.

  www.4jgswinery.com

Amalthea Cellars, 209 Vineyard Road, Atco, NJ 08004 856-768-8585

 Our tastings are done by the flight. We offer dry white, dry red, and off-dry flights for you to enjoy.

 White Wine Flight ($6 per person) – a tasting of our current dry white wines (5-6 wines)

 Red Wine Flight ($6 per person) – a tasting of our current dry red wines (5-6 wines)

 Off-Dry Wine Flight ($6 per person) – a tasting of our current Semi-Sweet wines (5-6 wines)

 www.amaltheacellars.com 

Auburn Road Vineyards 117 Sharptown Auburn Road, Pilesgrove, NJ 08098 856.769.WINE

 Join us at THE ENOTECA, the Garden State’s own European-style vineyard wine bar...Relax with a glass of our award-winning wine and enjoy our artisan cheeses, some fresh crusty bread and olive oil, fresh housemade tomato bruschetta, our now-famous Enoteca Panino, or some locally-made dessert.  Enjoy tastings daily from Noon to 5 pm and sample 8 wines for just $6!

 Thursday Nights at the Enoteca

 _*Happy Hour Drink Specials of Half-Priced Glasses of Wine from 5 to 7 pm

*Acoustic Jam Open Mic Nite LIVE! From The Vineyard Stage presented by Woodstown Music every Thursday from 7 to 9 pm where you can bring your ax for an open mic performance or  add your sound to a great acoustic jam! Admission is Free.

“What’s For Dinner? Friday”

 Every Friday, Auburn Road Vineyards presents a five course food and wine tasting experience. Each week, there is a different Entrée selected by Auburn Road’s chefs exclusively featuring Severino’s pasta with sauces prepared in house, and each sauce is specially made to order. Come experience the great food, fine wine and relaxed Enoteca atmosphere. Email [email protected] or call (856-769-WINE) for reservations.

LIVE! From the Vineyard Stage on Saturday Nights from 7 to 9 pm  The Enoteca has become a premier live music and performance venue in South Jersey, and was voted as one of South Jersey’s top places to

catch live music on a Saturday night by NJ.com!  In addition to our partnership with our great friends at Woodstown Music, Auburn Road is bringing you amazing performers and performances from all around the area, as well as, outside the region.

www.auburnroadvineyards.com

Autumn Lake Winery, 870 W Malaga Rd., Williamstown, NJ 08094 609-471-0370

Open for tastings Wednesday through Sunday.

Wed-Thu 11AM-5PM

Fri-Sat 11AM-6PM

Sun 12PM-5PM

Bellview Winery, 150 Atlantic Street, Landisville, NJ 08326

Dandelion Release Weekend April 7th & 8th 12pm to 5pm

This time of year brings more than just bud break in our vineyard, it also brings a new vintage of our Dandelion Wine! On April 7th and 8th we will be releasing our 2017 vintage of Dandelion wine to the public for tasting and purchase. Alongside our newest vintage we will also be tasting some that have been aging in our cellar for quite some time! The older vintages of our Dandelion wine will allow you to

taste the dramatic changes in flavor that occur over time with this unique wine. If you happen to fall in love with Dandelion wine after your tasting you can even take a bottle of one of these older vintages home with you, for this weekend only. Throughout the day we will also be holding several tours of our vineyard as the vines begin to wake up from their long winter slumber. Tours will be held on a first come first serve basis at no charge. So grab a wine lover, come to Bellview and show them something different, Dandelion wine.

Admission to this event is free, however there is a fee for wine tasting. Standard wine tasting is available for $6 which includes 8 tastes of any wine on our wine list. The vertical Dandelion flight tasting is purchased separately for $6 and includes tastings of our 2009, 2012 and 2017 Dandelion wines.

 www.bellviewwinery.com

Beneduce Vineyards, One Jeremiah Lane, Pittstown, NJ 08867. 908.996.DUCE

 Jeopardy Night, Friday, April 6 @ 7pm

Round up some friends or surprise your date with a fun night out as you compete for prizes by challenging your knowledge of topics including Animals, Food, Places, Pop Culture, and a mystery category. $15/person entrance fee includes a souvenir etched wine glass to take home. This event is open to everyone 21 years and older. We’ll be creating three teams, so if you’d like to be on a team with a friend or date, please let us know when you signup and we’ll do our best to accommodate you

Group Therapy

Join us every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon all year long. Live music is held on our beautiful stone patio surrounding a bonfire or in our unique, heated Tropical Oasis in the winter (or in the case

of inclement weather). Feel free to bring a snack or dinner and let your troubles melt away as you sip and enjoy great wine, music and company. Saturday performances are from 6-9pm with a full band and

$10 cover charge for all guests, regardless of age. Sundays are more low-key acoustic acts from 2-5pm and are free to attend. Our wines are available by the glass or bottle, but no other alcohol will be allowed on premises.

 Seating for Group Therapy is first come, first served. If you would like to guarantee seats for your group, you can take advantage of our Preferred Seating option, which is $10/person and payable in advance. This fee DOES NOT include the cover charge, which is an additional $10/person and will be collected when you arrive at our farm. This amounts to a total of $20/person for Preferred Seating on Saturdays.

To book Preferred Seating, please call (908) 996-DUCE or use our online booking system by clicking the button below. We look forward to hosting you.

 Group Therapy

4/7- This Old Engine

4/8- Dillon Taylor

4/14- Second Line

4/15- Sofia Nicole

4/21- The Bassboards

4/22- Joe Miralles Trio

4/28- Heritage Three

4/29- George Becker

 www.beneducevineyards.com -

 Brook Hollow Winery, 594 State Route 94, Columbia, NJ 07832, (908)496-8200

 Comedy Night at the Winery

Friday April 13th | 8:30-10:30pm (Doors open at 8pm) $20/person (plus NJ State Sales Tax)

 Ticket price does not include food or wine. Light snacks will be provided, food can be brought in, and wine can be purchased by the glass or bottle at retail value. *Show includes adult humor*

 Headliner: John Pizzi

Featuring: Jay Silverberg and Bill Chiang

Country Square Dancing At Brook Hollow Winery, April 27—7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Join us as we host our first Country Square Dancing night. Three fun hours of music and calling provided by Lori Kulp Woodward and James Hummel Entertainment. Tickets include a glass of wine, cover charge, and a fun night out with friends and family. So, grab your cowboy boots or just your dancing shoes and dance the night away! Get Your Tickets Here! -

 www.brookhollowwinery.com

 Cape May Winery, 711 Townbank Rd., Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-884-1169

 Open Daily from 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm/ Tap Room Extended Hours - through May 19th 2018

 Join us in the Tap Room every Friday evening for happy hour wine specials and live music from 5pm-8pm!

 www.capemaywinery.com -

 Cedarvale Winery, 205 Repaupo Station Road, Logan Twp., NJ 08085, 856-467-3088

 Open for tastings:

Thurs & Fri 12 - 7, Sat 11 - 7, Sun 11-5

 www.cedarvalewinery.com -

Coda Rossa Winery 1526 Dutch Mill Rd., Franklinville, NJ 08322 (856) 697-WINE

OPEN every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

 Enjoy the gorgeous view of our vineyard from the outdoor patio, open all weekend weather permitting. Bring a picnic lunch, or take a relaxing walk through our vineyard with a glass of wine. Tastings $5

per person and wines are also available by the glass and bottle. No reservations necessary. Hours: Friday and Saturday 11-6pm, Sunday 11-5pm. Gift cards are also available to treat your special someone.

www.codarossa.com -

 DiBella Winery, 229 Davidson Rd., Woolwich Twp, 08085 609-221-6201

Open for tastings Saturday and Sunday Noon - 5 pm

 www.dibellawinery.com 

 DiMatteo Vineyard and Winery  951 8th Street,  Hammonton, NJ 08037, 609-704-1414

Plant Terrarium Night, Friday, April 6 from 6-8 pm $35 per ticket

Create your own plant terrarium at DiMatteo's Vineyards. Includes all the supplies for the terrarium and a select wine tasting.  Bring your own snacks. There will also be a 50/50 and Wine Basket Raffle. Proceeds will benefit the SJI Heart Walk.  Ticket Information: Kristen Wright 609-351-4573

 Winery Hours of Operation

Mon, Tue, Fri - 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Wed – Thu Closed

Sat – Sun 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

 www.dimatteowinery.com

Four Sisters Winery 783 North Bridgeville Road (County Route 519), Belvidere, NJ 07823

 Murder Mystery Dinner at Four Sisters Winery

April 17—2:00 pm - 5:00 pm and April 27 (4 pm)The murders continue at Four Sisters Winery! It's just for fun during our Murder MysteryDinners. The event begins with a formal wine tasting, followed by a delicious dinner of Baked Ziti, Meatballs, Garden Salad, Bread & Dessert.  And, now it's time for an unraveling plot, a victim, a murderer, and a cast of characters. Let's not forget the detectives! The cast of characters are selected and the mayhem begins. Through the process; great fun and a twisted story line leaves everyone guessing.  Let's add a little spice to the event, you can embellish to your hearts content. Complimentary wine glass included $35 pp, plus tax & service fee. Tickets are available by calling 908-475-3671 Awards: Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Detective

 Barefoot Grape Stomp at Four Sisters Winery

April 21—2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

 It's Stomping Time! Yes, it's Barefoot Grape Stomping. A bit of nostalgia, a tasting of wine, something to do with friends for a special time!   Formal wine tasting, Italian spaghetti with meatballs, garden salad, bread, dessert, coffee, tea and sweet tea. An educational wine cellar tour describes the processes of wine making and then off with the shoes and socks for the ever-popular Barefoot Grape Stomping. Complimentary wine glass included.  $35 pp, plus tax & service fee. Tickets required by calling 908-475-3671

www.foursisterwinery.com -

Fox Hollow Vineyards, 939 Holmdel Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733, 732-772-0330

We are open Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11am - 6:30pm

Pet Friendly

Wine Tasting $12.00 - 5 wines of choice & souvenir glass

Reserve Wine Tasting $15.00 - 4 wine of choice, reserve wine & souvenir glass

Winter Chocolate & Wine Pairing $20.00 - 5 wines, 5 chocolates & a souvenir glass

 www.foxhollowvineyards.com -

 Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery 600 South Railroad Ave., Rio Grande, NJ08242 (609) 846-7347

 Spring Break at Hawk Haven, April 1-8 11am-6pm - Hop on in to experience what everyone is talking about at Hawk Haven Vineyard this Spring Break. The tasting room is open every day from 11am-6pm.

 Attention all teachers and members of our military, police, firefighters, and EMTs: did you know your wine tasting is on us anytime you visit? Let us thank you for the work that you do! You’ll also receive 10% off your wine by the glass and bottle purchases!

 Saturdays on the Crushpad, Saturdays 11am-6pm - It’s been a long hard week, and now it’s finally time to relax. We invite you toescape to Hawk Haven for an afternoon of wine, live music, and food pairings. Warm up your palate with an educational wine tasting, then head to the “crushpad” with a glass of your favorite where you’ll kick back and enjoy the vineyard views. Or try one of our new wine flights featuring four small glasses of red or white wines. Then pair that wine with something from our Crushpad Kitchen menu featuring gourmet cheeses and charcuterie paired with locally sourced fresh ingredients. A variety of musical performances by local singer-songwriters rounds everything off into a perfect getaway.

 Premium Wine Tasting, Saturdays 11am-6pm - An experimental farmer, our Winemaker takes chances and pushes the envelope. Our estate vines are his most prized asset. Those that rise to the challenge, producing what he considers worthy, earn the Signature Series label of his limited production, artisan wine collection. Taste and purchase these wines, along with other limited production wines, during our Premium Wine Tasting every Saturday at Hawk Haven Winery.

Tastings are $18 per person and includes a souvenir hawk logo wine glass. Reservations required for groups of 6 or more, email  [email protected] for more information.

 Vineyard & Winery Tour, Saturdays at 1pm starting April 7th – Taste through our wines as your guide leads you through every step of the wine making process from the vineyard to the vast steel tanks and French oak barrels. Discover what makes each wine unique and how our wine maker achieves every flavor and aroma. Learn the history of Hawk Haven while you sip. The tour concludes with a selection of gourmet cheeses to enjoy on the vineyard view crush pad.  Go online at hawkhavenvineyard.com or call (609) 846-7347 for reservations. $25 per person includes tour, wine tasting, cheese, and souvenir glass.

 Hopewell Valley Winery, 46 Yard Rd. Pennington, NJ 08534 (609) 737-4465

 Live Music– Our entertainers play from 6-9 PM on Thursday-Saturdays and 2 – 5 PM on Sundays. Check out our website and click on thecalendar tab to see who is playing.   -

 Looking for a beautiful place with award winning wine and fantastic food to hold your event contact Melina at  - [email protected]

 Board Game Night - Bring family, friends and your favorite board game. Join us every Thursday from 6-9PM for Music, Food and Wine

Sangria Making Class, April 7 @ 12pm and April 29 @ 11 am

$26.95/ person + Tax (must be 21 or older to participate)

(Purchase your tickets soon as this tends to sell out quickly)

 Spaghetti Dinner, April 19—5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner! Enjoy salad, spaghetti & meatballs, garlic bread and dessert during Thursday 'Music & Merlot'.  Advanced purchase not required but available online.

Iron Plow Vineyards, 26750 Mount Pleasant Road, Columbus, NJ 08022, 732.306.9111

 Live Music Weekends, Friday evenings, Saturday and Sunday afternoons

 Another week has ended and it’s time to sit back and relax with some wine and live music! The Iron Plow stage is set for local singer-songwriters to swoon you while you enjoy a wine flight, wine by the glass/bottle and an artisan cheese & charcuterie menu. Live music weekends are Friday evenings and Saturday/Sunday afternoons. In the summer enjoy it all overlooking breathtaking vistas of the vineyard from our patio and live music outside. There is no cover charge for this event and we do permit outside food. See a full listing of musicians on our website at www.ironplowvineyards.com

 www.ironplowvineyards.com 

Jessie Creek Winery, 1 Route 47 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

Community Game Night – C.A.R.A., April 21 @ 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm    Free

Come out for an evening of wine, food, board games and live music here at Jessie Creek and participate in giving back to our community. We have a variety of non-tech games for you to play including: Scrabble, Jenga, Backgammon, Cards, Operation and more. April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month so we will be donating a portion of our sales to C.A.R.A. (Coalition Against Rape and Abuse) and you’re welcome to make donations directly to the organization if you’d like.

Local singer/songwriter, Maddie Hogan, will be playing some original tunes & Drew from The Eat Well Cape May will have some tasty soups and sandwiches available. As the weather gets warmer we will be moving the festivities outside to enjoy the beautiful vineyard lawn – weather permitting we will light up a fire in the fire pit.

 Paint & Sip with Maverick Art Studio, April 26 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm   $35.00

 You will love being guided through the completion of this painting by one of the artists from Maverick Art Studio (located in Cape May Court House) while you sip your wine and enjoy some delicious cheese and crackers.  You will paint with acrylic on canvas, all supplies are included by Maverick Art Studio.

 We (JCW) will be offering all participants a complimentary glass of wine and cheese and crackers to pick on. You are welcome to purchase glasses or bottles of wine during the event as well.The cost is $35 Register online with Maverick Art Studio at www.maverickartstudio.com. Call 609 465 9500 (Maverick Art Studio) for more information!

 www.jessiecreekwinery.com 

Laurita Winery 85 Archertown Road, New Egypt, NJ 08533 (609) 752-0200

 Girls Getaway Weekend at Laurita Winery April 14 & 15

 April 15—12:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Grab your girlfriends and your besties and head over to Laurita for a weekend of fun, relaxation and wine!. Ten vendors for shopping and live music.Free Vineyard Wagon Rides

 Bacon Food Truck Festival at Laurita Winery April 28 and 29 11:00 am -7:00 pm

Bacon lovers will converge at Laurita! Don't miss out! Everything bacon! Three bands daily. Free vineyard wagon tours and family friendly activities. Fireworks on Saturday evening.

www.lauritawinery.com 

Monroeville Vineyard & Winery, 314 Richwood Road, Monroeville, NJ 08343,   856-521-0523

Open 7 Days a Week. Normal Business Hours

Monday - Wednesday 12pm-6pm

Thursday - 11am-7 pm

Friday - 11am-7pm

Saturday - 11am-7pm

Sunday - 12pm-5pm

Planning a Visit to our Tasting Room: -Wine Tastings are $10 and include a souvenir glass.-No Reservations are required for a wine tasting for parties of less than 6 guests.-We have ample indoor and outdoor seating to sit and enjoy a bottle of wine.

 Parties of 6 or more please call 856-521-0523 in advance so we can have a table reserved for you!  Parties of 6 or  more have a maximum of 1.5 hours.  We do sell a nice selection of Di Bruno Brother

Cheeses and Crackers. Please see our large group policy on home page.

 www.monroevillewinery.net

 Natali Vineyards, 221 N. Delsea Drive, Cape May, NJ  08210 (609) 465-0075

 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs – April 7 from 12-3pm – Natali Vineyards is offering Nathan’s Famous Hot dogs free to our customers.

Key West Saturday April 14—12:00 pm - 3:00 pm – Natali Vineyards is hosting Key West Saturday in our new tasting room. Pair our award winning wines with Key West goodies such as Fish Tacos and Key Lime Pie.

All American BBQ April 21—12:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Join us for our first BBQ of the year. Hot Dogs, hamburgers, potato salad & baked beans to pair with our wines.

Spring Fling April 28—1:00 pm - 6:00 pm - Live entertainment by Bill Caterini. Tours, tastings, wine by the glass or bottle, sangria, wine slushies, local vendors. Bring your own food for a picnic in the vineyard or order from our new menu. Free Admission

 Old York Cellars, 80 Old York Road, Ringoes, NJ 08551,908.284.9463

 April 7th & 8th (Winery). Winery will be closed to the public. We are turning the winery over to our Vintner's Club for a members-only weekend.

 Reserved Tasting at Bridgewater Wine Bar, 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM

Wed, Apr 4, 11, 18 and 25th -  Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Pairing. Guests enjoy a seated sampling of artisan cheeses and hand-crafted chocolates, paired with a selection of our award winning wines while relaxing in the lounge area of our Bridgewater Mall Wine Bar.

 Location: Old York Cellars at Bridgwater Commons Mall next to Macys (2nd floor).$25/Person ($20 Vintner's Club). Maximum 14 guests per seating

 Cheese, Chocolate & Wine Pairing at Old York Cellars

Saturday (4/14 and 28) & Sunday (4/15 and 29) at 1:00 & 3:00; - In the intimate setting of our Vintner's Tank Room, guests enjoy aseated sampling of artisan cheeses and handcrafted chocolates, paired with a flight of our award winning wines.$25/Person ($20 Vintner's Club).Maximum 10 guests per seating

 Specialty Tasting: Organic Farm Pairing at Winery

Sat, Apr 21, 2018 - Sun, Apr 22, 2018

 To celebrate Earth Day we are teaming up with our neighbors from Dogwood Farms to share the bounties of our harvests. Dogwood will be providing their certified organic produce, cheeses, and meats (all grown and raised in Hillsborough NJ) to pair with our award winning wines. Check back for more info on food pairings. Seating's: Saturday (4/21) & Sunday (4/22) at 1:00 & 3:00. $30/Person ($25 Vintner's Club). Each seating is limited to 10 guests.

 Wine & Comedy Night at Winery

Date:  Sat, Apr 7, 2018, 7:30 PM. Doors open at 7:30, shows start at 8:00

HEADLINER: COLEMAN GREEN

Opener: TBA

Feature: Greg Joseph

Host:  - Helene Angley

 $25 Admission ($20 Vintner's Club). There are no walk-in tickets available for this event.

 Crafting with Wine at Bridgewater Wine Bar

Date:  Thu, Apr 19, 2018

Time   6:30 PM to 8:30 PM

 Create your own wine-inspired artwork made from string.  Featuring Art Across Borders. GET STARTED EARLY. Because this project takes longer to finish, we are opening the event an hour early (5:30pm). Guests are still welcome to come at 6:30pm. During this special evening of creative vibes and good wine, guests will be guided through the process making a their own wine artwork from string. Pick from a selection of designs or create your own, then craft and relax in the lounge area of Old York Cellars Bridgewater Wine Bar. A full selection of wine and light nibbles will be available for purchase. Tickets include a Wine Tasting Flight to get you started! All materials are provided.

 Location: Old York Cellars at Bridgewater Commons Mall next to Macys (2nd Floor).  $40/Person ($35 Vintner's Club) Includes materials and a wine tasting flight

 www.oldyorkcellars.com

 Plagido’s Winery, 570 North 1st Rd., Hammonton, NJ 08037, 609.567.4633

Open 7 days a week 11am to 5pm!

$8 Tasting and  $10 Tasting with Souvenir glass

 www.plagidoswinery.com

 Salem Oak Vineyards, 60 N. Railroad Avenue, Pedricktown, NJ 08067,856-889-2121

MON: CLOSED

Tues: By Appointment Only

Wed - Sat: 12-9pm

Sunday: 12-6pm

 We have live acoustical music every Friday and Saturday night from 7 to 9.

 www.salemoakvineyards.com -

 Sharrott Winery, 370 S. Egg Harbor Rd. (Rt. 561), Hammonton, NJ 08037, 609.567.WINE

Saturday Live Music Series 1:00-4:00 pm

 April 7 - Ginger Coyle

April 14 – Jeff Twardzik

April 21 – Chris Huff

April 28 – Nathan Butler

 Sunday Live Music Series 1:00 – 4:00 pm

April 8 – Jeff Kessler

April 15 – Matt Noffsinger

April 22 – Megan Knight

April 29 – Nancy Malcun

Come enjoy live music and wine tasting; then purchase a bottle to savor during the performance. Live music will be on our patio overlooking the vineyard. Seating is limited; you are encouraged to bring a blanket and/or chairs for use on the lawn. Admission is free and wine tasting is $8.00 per person. The tasting includes 6 samples of Sharrott wines and a souvenir glass. No BYOB. By law only Sharrott wines can be consumed on the property.

 Please note: dogs/pets are not permitted on the property. Also, coolers are prohibited.

 www.sharrottwinery.com

Southwind Vineyard & Winery, 385 Lebanon Road Millville, New Jersey 08332 856-391-5524

HOURS

 CLOSED MONDAYS

Tuesday through Sunday Noon-6PM

Open Later Friday & Saturday until 7:30PM

Still only $5 for 8 samples in a tasting!

Call 856-391-5524 for reservations or directions.

Summit City Winery, 500 University Blvd., Glassboro, NJ 08028 (856) 881-2930

 Friday April 6, 2018

 Wine and Music Series – Live Music with “Acoustic Soul” - We believe wine & live music make a perfect pair! Join us for an enjoyable evening of live music and great wine. No cover.

Saturday April 7, 2018

Wine and Music Series - Oldies Music with DJ Johnny Tocco -Things are always hopping in the winery on Oldies night! Come by for a glass or two and some great Oldies tunes. $10 per person cover charge.

Friday April 13, 2018

Wine and Music Series - Karaoke with Johnny Tocco - Come out and join us for an evening of Karaoke hosted by Johnny Tocco. No Cover. Special thanks presented to participants and winner.

 Saturday April 14, 2018

 Wine and Music Series - Country Music with Country DJ Steve Carroll - Grab your cowboy boots and join us for Country Music & Wine night with Country DJ Steve Carroll! Light snacks provided.  $10 per person cover charge.

 Friday April 20, 2018

Wine and Music Series – Live Music with Dave Dilks and Friends. We believe wine & live music make a perfect pair! Join us for an enjoyable evening of live music and great wine. No cover.

Saturday April 21, 2018

Wine and Music Series - Oldies Music with DJ Gary. - Things are always hopping in the winery on Oldies night! Come by for a glass or two and some great Oldies tunes. $10 per person cover charge.

Friday April 27, 2018

Wine and Music Series - Oldies Music with DJ Lou Costello -  Things are always hopping in the winery on Oldies night! Come by for a glass or two and some great Oldies tunes. $10 per person cover charge.

 Saturday April 28, 2018

Wine and Music Series - Country Music with Country DJ Steve Carroll - Grab your cowboy boots and join us for Country Music & Wine night with Country DJ Steve Carroll! Light snacks provided. $10 per person cover charge.

 You are always welcome to bring your own food

 www/summitcityfarms.com

Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery, 330 Cold Soil Road, Princeton, NJ, 08540 (609) 924-2310

 Sunday Live Music Series - Come join us in our brand-new wine production barn for Terhune wine, light fare, relaxing music, and friend-filled afternoons every Sunday this winter and spring through May 27 from 12:00 – 5:00 PM at Terhune Orchards Vineyard and Winery.

Grab a glass of one of our award-winning wines, sit back, relax, and enjoy live music from local artists each week. Styles range from Jazz and Blues to Folk and Rock. Music from 1pm-4pm. (See schedule below). Wine and light fare including cheese platters and chips and homemade salsa are available. It’s the perfect way to round off your weekend!

 — Rain or shine event; no admission fee.

— Individual glasses of wine can be purchased.

— Families are welcome. Please, no outside food.

 Music Schedule

April 8 – James Popik

April 15 – Brooke Dicaro

April 22 – Kingston Ridge

April 29 – Acoustic DouVer

 Wine & Yoga – Saturday April 7 10:30-11:30 am  Join us in the Terhune Wine Barn for a one-hour, all-levels yoga class with Mecquel, a practitioner and dancer who has been teaching mindfulness and movement since 2002, followed by Terhune Orchards wine.  Celebrate spring with a session to increase flexibility, stress reduction and circulatory health. Bring your own yoga mat and a friend.  $28 per person includes the yoga sessions and your choice of a glass of award-winning Terhune wine or a wine tasting flight. Please call or visit the website to register.

 Wine and Paint – Saturday April 21 1:30 – 3:30 pm

Join us in the Terhune Orchards Wine Barn for a special afternoon of wine and painting. Corks & Canvas, our local Lawrenceville “create & sip” studio, will lead the class.  “Wine & Paint” is sure to bring out the artist in you! Follow the professional artist as they guide you step-by-step to create a beautiful canvas painting. Before class, enjoy a tasting of Terhune Orchards wine and choose your favorite to sip while you create your masterpiece. All painting supplies, canvas, wine tasting and glass of wine are included in the class price of $50. Please call or visit the website to register. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in.

 www.terhuneorchards.com

 Tomasello Winery, 225 N. White Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ 08037, (1-800-MMM-WINE)

 Tomasello Winery Country Line Dancing with Patti  April 20—7:00 pm-- 10:00 pm  Join us for an evening of Country Line Dancing with Patti! Dance the night away! Lessons and line dancing plus, wine, beer, cocktails and light fare will be available for purchase. Large dance floor, state of the art lighting and sound system. Tickets are just $10 per person. Doors open at 6:30pm. Reserve now below or call 1-800-MMM-Wine.

 Tomasello Winery - Spring Wine Glass Painting Party

April 22—1:00 pm - 4:00 pm  On Sunday April 22nd, grab your BFF's and join us for our spring wine glass painting party at Tomasello Winery in Hammonton. Tickets are $49.95 which includes lunch, 1 year

Gold Card Membership and everything you need to paint your wine glass masterpiece! Wine and mixed drinks will also be available for sale. Reservations required. Call 1-800-MMM-WINE or reserve online.

 Tomasello Winery Totally Tenors Opera Gala  April 29—2:00 pm - 6:00pm - Held in our versatile Vintner’s Room, the Opera Gala at Tomasello Winery presents four times a year. These afternoon events are a thrilling matinée for the senses; featuring fine wines, elegantly prepared cuisine and thoughtfully selected operatic arias. For a sensory experience to savor, the music is complemented by a delicious four-course gourmet dinner prepared by our excellent Executive Chef, Jason Hall, who expertly pairs his creations with our award-winning wines. Complete menu available on our website. TICKETS $79.95 INCLUSIVE - CALL 1-800-MMM-WINE to reserve on www.tomasellowwinery.com

 www.tomasellowinery.com

 Unionville Vineyards, 9 Rocktown Rd., Ringoes, NJ 08551 908.788.0400

Spring Artisan Market, April 7 - April 8

Join us at the winery for two days of delicious foods, artisan food products, and specialty craft shopping. Live music on the winery floor each day will make for a relaxing afternoon with many of our friends from the food & craft world. There is no admission fee, tastings are $10. Wine is available by the glass or bottle. Please, no outside food or beverage during this weekend. Vendors will include: Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse, Frank's Pickled Peppers, Demi Olive Oil, Vicky's Baskets, Black River Roasters, Celtic Chairde Creations, Cherry Grove Farm,  Instinct Jewelry, Kennett Square Mushrooms, Baker's Bounty, Jeff

Charlesworth Painting, @Gail Adam's Jewelry, Hina Suri's Painted Pottery, and The Bowknife Company. More to be added. Antimo's Italian Kitchen: Trattoria & Pizzeria will serve wood-fired pizza pies.

Tina & Friends- Open Mic Night, April 13—6:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Tina rocks. She rocks Lambertville, New Hope, Doylestown, and once a month she rocks the vines at Unionville. You're invited to join her band of merrymakers for a vineyard open mic in the tasting room. We serve wine by the glass or bottle while the music plays, and Antimo's Italian Kitchen: Trattoria & Pizzeria will serve wood-fired pizza pies. There's no cover charge, and we promise you a raucous, rocking...even riotous good time. Performers should arrive at the beginning of the evening to guarantee stage time.

 Swirling with the Swine Pig Roast, April 28—6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

 BBQ Catering Co. -will share a delectable feast featuring a pig roast, we will pour locally grown fine wines at the open wine bar, and James Popik/Ten Foot Tall 3D  will play blues rock on the patio. The winemakers will offer barrel tastings, and you can go home with wine sold at volume discounts.

This is our kick off to the warm season, and it sells out every year! Don't miss out! $65pp plus tax

 www.unionvillevineyards.com

 Valenzano Winery, 1090 Route 206, Shamong, NJ 08088 (609) 268-6731

 Thursday Night Dinners are back! Please join us on a Thursday evening for this weekly tradition. Reservations are not required, but are recommended. Every Thursday; seating from 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Call 609-268-6731 between 11:00am-5:00pm for reservations

Pour & Pair Evening Tour, April 13 @ 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

$75 Online Presale Ticket

 We’ve talked for a few years about sharing an evening and taking our tour experience to the next (family) level. Guests who have shared a weekend tour visit with us will have enjoyed a round or two of dip, nip, and sip while hearing about a host of recipes and pairing plans – each time we’ve talked about hosting the experience, the response has been warm and encouraging. So we’re doing it….or at least, giving it a try. Our tour guides have all agreed on the family favorites to offer as our first effort for this pairing project. We’re spending the day in the kitchen, prepping, setting and readying the ballroom for an evening of pouring and pairing nine well portioned plates that will accompany nine fine wines to expand your palette and have your taste buds rejoicing. Guests will enjoy a family round seating arrangement with their favorite tour guides, sipping and sharing after a brief tour of the facility, and will end their evening with a gift bag* and a short assembly of the recipes and pairings enjoyed that night*

 Wine Bottle Plant Nite! April 19 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

 Plant Nite is excited to be back at Valenzano Winery. Join us to create your own succulent terrarium planting in a wine bottle. Enjoy a night out while sipping some delicious Valenzano wine. Please arrive promptly at 7pm as planting will begin at 7:30pm.

 **Make it a complete “Night Out” by enjoying a fabulous dinner at the winery before the event. Plant Nite attendees will receive a $10 off any 2 entrees. Just call the winery directly to make your reservations. Dinner reservations must be made for no later than 5:30pm. Menu is posted below. Call 609-268-6731 to make your reservation, as we will book up quickly.**

 Pups in the Pines, April 21 and 22@ 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Saturday & Sunday -  A weekend of appreciation and recognition for the paws, claws, warm hearts and cold noses in our lives, and the many talented & great Vets, Techs, Trainers, Fosters & Rescues who care & keep them. We’ll be offering a 20% discount on Wine, Menu & Merchandise items for those individuals who visit during the weekend and identify with badge, card, and/or ID to show their affiliation.

 www.valenzanowine.com

 Ventimiglia Vineyards, 101 Layton Rd, Wantage, NJ, (973) 875-4333

Open Saturday and Sundays Noon – 5 pm.

 www.ventivines.com -

 Villa Milagro Vineyards, 33 Warren Glen-CR627, Finesville, NJ,908-995-2072

 Wine & Olive Oil Tasting, April 7-8, 1-4pm - Join us to enjoy delicious samples of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, flavored oils and other delicacies from Olive with a Twist, Frenchtown, NJ. Clear your pallet with ciabiatta bread and wash it all down with our exceptional European style blended wines.

Admission: $10 adults, $5 children over 10.

 Sip’n’Soup, Sat-Sun April 14-15, Noon-4:00pm - While spring has arrived it is still a bit nippy out.  Take the chill off with a warm hardy soup and a sip of good wine!  Join us to sample 3 delicious soups perfectly paired with 3 of our wonderful wines. General tastings 11-6; Sip’n’Soup 12-4.  $10 admission includes three soup samples, wine sampling & gift wine glass.

 Jazz Concert – Riverside Jazz Quartet featuring Alex Radus,  April 14 6:30pm - Like a private night club, our jazz events are small and intimate. Up close and personal, you can interact with and meet the musicians. Order a cheese plate to snack as you listen.  $20 admission, includes wine sampling and music.

 French Cheese & Wine Pairing, Sat-Sun, April 21-22, noon-5:00pm -  The French did not invent wine and cheese but they certainly did perfect combining them. We will offer French cheeses to pair with our

European style wines. A yummy afternoon.  $10 admission includes wine and cheese pairing and gift glass to keep.

 Pierogi Tasting, Sat-Sun, Apr 28-29, 1-4 pm. - Pierogies are like Italian raviolis, Chinese dumplings and other little stuffed packages of deliciousness. Our local Kraskus Polish Deli hand makes them filled with meats, veggies and traditional herbs and flavors.  Taste them all.  Take some home! A rare treat.   $10 all tastings, glass of wine to enjoy while sampling pierogies and gift glass to keep.   

 www.villamilagrovineyards.com

 Wagonhouse Winery, 1401 NJ-45 (corner of Marl RD), Swedesboro, NJ., 08085 South Harrison Township (856) 297-6366

 Tasting Room Hours

We accept reservations for the following days/hours:

Friday, Noon – 5 pm (as we close at 6)

Saturday, Noon – 5 pm (as we close at 6)

Sunday, Noon – 4 pm (as we close at 5)

Monday (HOLIDAYS ONLY), Noon – 4 pm (as we close at 5)

FIRST RESPONDER DAY @ Wagonhouse Winery

Every Friday; Noon – 6 pm

Enjoy a complimentary appetizer with each bottle purchase and 20% off all other purchases!

 TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY @ Wagonhouse Winery

Every Friday; 12 – 6 pm

Enjoy a complimentary appetizer with each bottle purchase and 20% off all other purchases.

 www.wagonhousewinery.com

 White Horse Winery, 106 Hall Street, Hammonton, NJ 08037 (609) 270-1411

 White Horse Winery Live Music Series - Our  live music performances take place in our tasting room. Add a little warmth to your winter months with our roaring fire pits; the perfect gathering spot for your friends and family outside in our beautiful Grove. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, plus standing room around our spacious tasting bar.

 Live Music Schedule

4/6 5- 8 pm – SOF

4/8 1-4 pm – Nicki Sbaffoni

4/13 5:30-8:30 pm – Laura Shay

4/14 2-5 pm – Anj Granieri

4/15 1-4 pm – Brian Bachorz

4/20 5:30-8:30 pm – 4:44

4/21 2-5 pm – Sara James

4/22 1-4 pm – T.J. Fry

4/27 5:30-8:30 pm – Camille Peruto

4/28 2-5 pm – T.J. Young

4/29 1-4 pm – Lauren Marsh

 William Heritage Vineyard, 480 Mullica Hill Road  856-589-4474

Visit the William Heritage Winery Tasting Room any day of the week for wine tasting. Tasting includes five wine samples. The classic tasting sheet features some of the winery’s most popular wines crafted from William Heritage estate vineyards.  Guests can also select to taste from the reserve tasting sheet, which highlights William Heritage Winery’s most limited and highly-rated wines.

 Run the Vineyards 5 Miler, Sunday April 29 from 7 am - 2 pm - Join us for a scenic run followed by a fun festival featuring wine, live music, food trucks, games and more. This event sells out early each year so please sign up soon.

 www.heritagewinenj.com

 Willow Creek Winery, 160-168 Willow Stevens Street, West Cape May, NJ,08204 (609) 770-8782

 Fire Pit Fridays (5:30-9:30pm) - Join us as we welcome some of the area’s most talented musicians performing live at the winery. Enjoy a wine tasting or glass of wine or sangria prior to taking a seat and ordering some of our delicious tapas while listening to incredible local performers. When you’re finished, grab a seat outside by the fire pit, and take in the vineyard sky above with all those that you love. Live music is from 6-9pm inside the winery, and seats fill up very fast. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR GUARANTEED SEATING. Please check our calendar to be sure we are not closed for a private event.

 Pasta Sundays (2pm-5:30pm) - Pasta & family day at the farm. Bring thewhole family for a time-honored tradition of pasta family and lots of vino. Relax in the vineyard or inside the winery at a table with your closest loved ones, and enjoy Sinatra radio, bottomless plates of pasta, salad and garlic bread.  The cost is $25pp and includes a glass of wine or sangria on tap, choice of pasta, chef’s salad, and garlic bread. Children under 12 are $10pp, and young adults aged 12-20 are $20pp and include a fountain soda. Seating is limited, and reservations are strongly suggested.

 Comedy UnCorked, April 14—5:00 pm - 10:00 pm - Join us for our Comedy UnCorked!! Enjoy a three-course, wine-paired dinner and comedy show staring a hilarious group of NYC comedians. This is an event not to miss! 6-7pm: Social Hour (Cash Bar) Seating starts at approximately 6:15pm 7pm: Three-course wine-paired dinner is served 8pm: Comedy Show begins immediately following dinner, featuring three amazing NYC comics and comedic host, Sam Mushman. Tickets are only $65 per person (dinner, wine, AND a show!!) and may be purchased in advance on our website. Tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable. Rated MA for Mature Audiences.  Must be 21 years of age to attend. The easily offended should stay home for this event.

http://willowcreekwinerycapemay.com/

Working Dog Winery, 610 Windsor-Perrineville Road, East Windsor, NJ,08691 (609) 371-6000

Open Friday 2-6 pm; , Saturday and Sunday,11 am - 6 pm

 Live Music  on Saturdays - Free Admission 1:00 - 5:00 pm

April 7 - Chris from Rave On

April 14 - Williamsboy 

April 21 - The Grouser Girls

April 28 - Kevin McGowan

    Gary and Pam Mount and their daughter Reuwai Hanewald receive the honor at the the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture and New Jersey Vegetable Growers Association convention awards banquet on Feb. 7, 2018. 

At the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture and New Jersey Vegetable Growers Association convention the Mount family was presented with Vegetable Grower of the Year award in “recognition of your many years of outstanding and dedicated service to the agricultural community.”

 Terhune Orchards, 185 acres of preserved farmland,  is owned by Pam and Gary Mount and daughters, Reuwai and Tannwen. The family owned  farm in Princeton was lauded at the annual dinner on Feb. 7, 2018,. Gary Mount thanked everyone and Reuwai gave a speech on how Gary and Pam have been innovative, foresighted and risk takers for more than 40 years and that she and her sister are now full time on the farm and continue the work with energy and dedication. She noted they are the 11th generation of the Mount family to farm. Her grandfather had a large wholesale apple orchard on Route 1. Gary and Pam changed direction to a smaller, very intensely planted and diverse farm selling direct to the public.

Meredith Melendez, Agricultural Agent for the Cooperative Extension of Mercer County wrote this lovely introduction for us at the awards banquet that she hopes capture the growth of the farm and our family.  

 “The Mount family has firm roots in New Jersey, but did not come into agriculture by inheriting a family farm.  Gary grew up in a wholesale apple operation, but the farm was sold before Gary realized his own farming dream.  Gary and Pam met in High School, marrying three days after Pam graduated from college.  Shortly after marrying they traveled to the island Satawal in Micronesia to serve the 400 residents through the Peace Corp. 

 After returning back to New Jersey an extended family member mentioned to them that the farm on Cold Soil Road was for sale, and the family soon found themselves farmers.  Their daughter Reuwai was three years old when the family moved to Cold Soil Road, with second daughter Tannwen on the way and son Mark born a few years later. 

 Terhune Orchard is a 200 acre farm growing tree fruit, small fruit, vegetables, and wine grapes.  Today the thriving agritourism operation is proudly run by Gary, Pam, Reuwai, and Tannwen.  Son Mark is a U.S. Army sergeant who is stationed in Louisiana with his family.  Mark has served three tours of duty in Afghanistan.  The Mount grandchildren are familiar faces at the farm and participate in many of the activities that make up daily farm life.

 The farm has grown over the past 40+ years from tree fruit only to a highly diversified farm open year round multi-generational family operation.  The farm started with just apples, peaches and pears and now grows over 40 different crops.  The farm was an early adaptor of the IPM program, and still relies on the Rutgers IPM program scouts and information in making pest management decisions.  The practice is regularly talked about in the farm newsletter and Facebook posts, utilized to educate the public on sound production practices.  The farm makes decisions as a family with regular meetings with family members and key personnel. 

 The most recent improvement to the farm was the building of a wine barn to expand their production, storage and tasting areas.  The interest in growing wine started with the second generation of the farm family, Tannwen and Gary planting 5 acres of grapes in 2006.  Bottling began in 2010 and the family won nine medals in the 2017 annual New Jersey Wine Competition.  Their Terhune Orchards Blueberry Wine was awarded the Governor’s Cup for best fruit wine, and the Harvest Blue, Blossom White and Just Peachy won gold medals. 

 Aside from winning awards for their wine the family is known for hosting farm tours from state, national, and international organizations.  In August Extension educators from across the U.S. and Canada toured Terhune Orchards to glean wisdom learned through their 40+ years of production.  The goal was to share this information with their agricultural producers specializing in tourism events back in their home states.  This tour, like so many others, left the audience feeling inspired and energized thanks to the commitment to the industry and community by the Mount family.

 The Mount family has long been committed to service, and has served in many positions of responsibility over the years.  Most recently Reuiwai was voted Vice President of the Mercer County Board of Agriculture, a position her father has held in the past.  Pam Mount is known for her involvement in starting and sustaining the New Jersey Agricultural Society programs including the Agricultural Leadership Development, and Farmers Against Hunger.  Gary currently sits on the board of the Howell Living History Farm, the Mercer County Agricultural Development Board, the Mercer County Soil Conservation District, and the Trenton Market Growers Cooperative.   Gary has previously served on the New Jersey State Board of Agriculture, as a Mercer County director for the New Jersey Farm Bureau, and served as both President and Vice-President of the Mercer County Board of Agriculture.  These positions represent a fraction of the families involvement with agricultural and community organizations in New Jersey.  Gary was named National Apple Grower of the Year in 2005 by American Fruit Grower Magazine and in 2012 Gary was inducted into the International Fruit Tree Association Hall of Fame.”

 Terhune Orchards is located at 330 Cold Soil, Rd.,Princeton  NJ

The farm store is open Mon- Fri 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sat. – Sun., 9 a.m. –5 p.m. 

The winery is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Cream Ridge, NJ – New Jersey’s wine industry had a $323 million economic impact on the state in 2016, an increase of 39.9% from the $231 million economic impact reported in 2011, according to a new study released by the Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) funded from a Wine Industry Council Grant, and completed by accounting and consulting firm Frank, Rimerman + Co.  Here is a link to the full study

Wine production increased by 73.1% from 405,954 gallons in 2011 to 702,671 in 2016. The number of wineries in the state increased from 38 to 50, and wine, grapes and related industries accounted for 1,979 jobs (up 35.4% from 1,462 in 2011) according to the study with the majority of the jobs being in the actual wineries and vineyards with an associated payroll of $85.57 million.  Grape bearing acres also grew 23/3% from 1,283 to 1,582 acres.

The New Jersey wine and grape industry also generates significant tax dollars, benefiting federal, state and local governments. New Jersey’s wine, grape and allied industries paid $23.24 million in federal taxes and $17.73 million in state and local taxes in 2016, including roughly $2.35 million in total excise taxes.

 The study estimates the retail value of New Jersey wine sold at about $29.53 million in 2016, up from $21.46 million in 2011. The majority of New Jersey wineries are small, producing less than 5,000 cases a year, and a majority of them sell their wine directly to consumers through winery tasting rooms.

 “This economic impact study clearly shows the positive role our wineries and wine-related industries are having on the state’s economy not only from jobs and tax revenue, but also from helping to boost tourism in the state,” said Valerie Tishuk, Chair of the Garden State Wine Growers Association.

 Wine is certainly making an impact not only in New Jersey but across the country as well. In September of 2017, WineAmerica, the National Association of American Wineries, unveiled a national impact study pegged the wine industry’s total benefit to the U.S. economy at $219.9 billion in 2017.

 According to the GSWGA study, tourism continues to be a material factor in the New Jersey wine and grape industry’s overall impact on the broader state economy. A survey of New Jersey wineries estimates that 108,813 tourists visited New Jersey wineries in 2016. Supporting these winery visitors is a diverse labor force of approximately 357 employees with total wages of approximately $12.9 million. The continued increase of tourist visits over the past several years can be attributed to the increased number of New Jersey wineries and continued improvement in wine quality, providing more destinations and opportunities for visitors to experience New Jersey wine country.  

“While these figures are encouraging, they also show that there is a lot more work to be done in making our wine industry a focal point of beverage tourism in New Jersey,” noted Tom Cosentino, Executive Director of the GSWGA.

 As outlined in the study, despite the increase in winery-related visitors from 2011, total tourism revenue industry wide declined from $20.10 million in 2011 to $19.99 million in 2016.  This is directly attributable to lower average spending per visitor statewide across all tourism sectors as well as fewer number of wineries visited per visit. Specifically, tourism spending per visitor has decreased from $209.66 in 2011 to $183.67 in 2016, a drop of approximately 12.4%.

 “We are confident that the new administration will see the value of using the wine industry to help support and promote tourism in New Jersey and look forward to once again working in a  bipartisan manner with our legislature to create bills that will continue to help us grow,” noted Tishuk.

Columbia, NJ –​Brook Hollow Winery in Columbia, NJ, a member of the Garden State Wine Growers Association, is making an offer designed just for our wounded warriors. The winery, which recently opened a brand new banquet center in Knowlton across the road from the winery, is looking to honor one of these brave heroes that returned home disabled with an all-expense paid wedding.

 From now until Valentine’s Day 2018 when the winner will be randomly drawn, disabled American veterans can apply online for the chance to be selected for what Brook Hollow Winery is calling its “Warrior Wedding”. 

 “We are proud of our service men and women who have given so much for all of us to be able to live free in the United States of America, the most incredible country in the world. Some of these brave men and women came back from their deployments disabled, while others gave the ultimate sacrifice of their life. Brook Hollow Winery would like to honor one of these brave heroes by providing them with a day they will remember for the rest of their lives,” said Paul Ritter, owner of Brook Hollow Winery. 

 The contest is open to legal residents of the United States who have served in the military and have “disabled veteran status” meaning a veteran who is entitled to compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary, or a person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability and are of legal age to be married in the state of New Jersey.

 Brook Hollow Winery is working with a number of partners to make this a very special day for the veteran selected. Local establishments, including Blairstown Museum for trolley photos; The Cozy Cabin for cupcakes; the Rosemary Inn for one free night stay; Q Classic Catering; Feather Artistry photography and Lunden Fog & Son musical entertainment, are among the businesses that have already signed on the participate.

Brook Hollow Winery is a family farm nestled in the heart of the scenic Delaware Water Gap area of New Jersey. Each hand-crafted wine is fermented, aged, and bottled by the Ritter family. Learn more at www.brookhollowwinery.com.

 The GSWGA is a coalition of over 50 wineries, grape growers and vineyard owners across New Jersey, dedicated to raising the quality and awareness of the New Jersey wine industry. Learn more at www.newjerseywines.com

Executive Director Tom Cosentino (left) and Jack Tomasello, Chair present State Senator James Beach with the Garden State Wine Growers Association’s 2017 Legislator of the Year Award.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association recently honored State Senator James Beach (D) of the 6th Legislative District as the organization’s 2017 Legislator of the Year for his tireless efforts to support the New Jersey wine industry.  The honor was bestowed on Senator Beach by Garden State Wine Growers Association Chair Jack Tomasello of Tomasello Winery and Tom Cosentino, Executive Director, at a special event held July 21 at Amalthea Cellars Winery in Atco. Beach is the Assistant Majority Leader in the Senate.

“We are going to keep working to help grow New Jersey’s wine industry,” said Beach upon receiving a special plaque commemorating the honor. “Senator Sweeney has led the way in in developing legislation to support the wine industry and we are going to continue to work on a lot of different legislation to continue building on that.”  

“Our goal is to expand tourism in the state with our wine industry,” said Chair Jack Tomasello. “We believe our wineries can serve as a feeder system for the restaurant, hotel and other industries and we commend Senator Beach for supporting our efforts to do so.”

Executive Director Tom Cosentino noted, “Senator Beach has been very instrumental in working behind the scenes to ensure that legislation that can allow our industry to grow, continues moving forward. He is a great friend of New Jersey’s wine industry.”

Get a first hand look inside the barrel room at your favorite New Jersey winery and taste future vintages right from the barrel as winemakers explain the wine making process during the annual Barrel Trail Weekend, July 15-16 presented by the Garden State Wine Growers Association. A great behind-the-scenes opportunity to learn about wine making from the men and women making New Jersey's award-winning wines.  Check schedule for participating wineries and the events they have scheduled.

Here are just some of the events wineries have planned. Check wineries in your area for events, times of operation and whether you need to RSVP or purchase tickets in advance.

4 JG’s Orchards & Vineyard, Colts Neck - guests can kick off the winery’s season with the Taste from the Barrel Weekend. Come in the cool barrel room for a taste of wine still in barrel.

Bellview Winery, Landisville - Barrel Tasting Weekend July 15th and 16th 10 am to 5 pm -  Ever wonder what your favorite wine tastes like straight out of the barrel? Are you interested in getting that wine 50% off? If so, the Bellview Winery Barrel Tasting Weekend is the event for you. Sample the next upcoming vintages as well as selections from our Celestial Series. The Celestial Series is a series of blends that were featured on tap in the winery. Due to popular demand, these blends were bottled in small batches that are typically not available for tasting. Join us to celebrate the wines to come on July 15th and 16th from 10AM – 5PM.

Event Wine tasting is $5 and our standard tasting will also be available in the tasting room for $5 for 8 tastes. Futures for upcoming vintages will be available for purchase with special pricing of up to 50% off.

Chestnut Run Farm - The Wine Shop at Chestnut Run Farm will be open for tastings during the Barrel Trail Weekend!  Since our little wine shop is only open a few weekends each year, this is a great opportunity to come out to the farm, see where all the fruit used to make our wines is grown, and to sample our wines on our peaceful Salem County farm.  Why not make a day of it by visiting our neighboring wineries on the Two Bridges Wine Trail?

Hawk Haven Vineyard,Rio Grande -  has their regularly scheduled Vineyard & Winery Tour daily at 1pm. Taste through Hawk Haven wines and hear a discussion from a guide on every step of the wine making process from the vineyard to the vast steel tanks and French oak barrels. Discover what makes each wine unique and how our wine maker achieves every flavor and aroma. The tour concludes with a selection of gourmet cheeses to enjoy on the vineyard view crush pad and cozy barrel room.  Call (609) 846-7347 for reservations. $25 per person includes tour, wine tasting, cheese, and souvenir glass.

Hopewell Valley Vineyard, Pennington - Live music on Saturday and Sunday and a vineyard tour with a complimentary wine tasting on Saturday, July 15 at 2 pm.

Iron Plow Vineyards, Columbus - Straight out of the Barrel Room, a vertical tasting of two unreleased Merlots.  The 2016 will be taken directly out of the barrel for you to taste.  The 2015 Merlot is also available to taste which is not yet released, but will be available for purchase this weekend only.  This special additional tasting if free to anyone who purchases a regular tasting.

Laurita Winery, New Egypt - July 15 and 16 Laurita has a red white and blue and food trucks event and we will use our vineyard wagon tours as our educational offering. They are free to the public and wonderful.

Natali Vineyard, Cape May - Barrel Trail Weekend – July 15th & 16th from 12-4pm.  Join our winemaker for a tour of the barrel room and try a few of our wines right from the barrel.  

Sharrott Winery - Do you know what a Wine Thief is? What is the angel's share?

Join our Wine makers in the Barrel Room for the answers to these questions plus tastings right from the barrel! This tasting is just like our wine makers do as they ready the wines for bottling. We will be comparing dry red wines from the barrel with finished bottles of the same variety.  Some of our very limited edition wines will be included.  A tour of our wine making facility and souvenir glass is included.

Barrel Tastings cost $12 and will take place at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 pm. Our standard tasting ($8) will also be offered anytime throughout the day.

Tomasello Winery, Hammonton - On Saturday & Sunday, July 15 & 16th from 1-5pm, join us for Barrel Trail Weekend at Tomasello Winery. Enjoy barrel tastings of select wines, plus special discounts both days on our Palmaris Reserve Wines. Specialty Cocktails, Martinis, Mixed Drinks and Tapas will also be available for purchase.

Villa Milagro Vineyards, Finesville - guests will chill in their “Chill Room” where you will learn how they finish, age and bottle their wines using no additives.  Visitors will sample future vintages directly from the barrel and then sample currently bottled wines. $10 includes tour, wine tasting, appetizer plate and gift glass. On Sunday, guests will have a chocolate tasting with Chocolate Lab from Bethlehem, PA.

Working Dog Winery, East Windsor - Barrel Trail Weekend, July 15 and 16, 2016

Noon - 5:00 PM; $5.00 Admission (live music and  food truck each day)

Enjoy a day filled with barrel samples, vineyard tours (weather permitting), wine education, and award-winning, estate-bottled wine. We will have music by the band, Pennington Station, on Saturday; on Sunday Rob Messina will perform.  Two food trucks will be with us over this weekend offering their delicious food for purchase:  Jersey Devil BBQ on the 15th and Tower Dogs on the 16th. 

The top award winners in the recent NJ Wine Competition were honored at a ceremony held June 15, 2017 at the Statehouse in Trenton.  There, Assistant Secretary of Agriculture Monique Purcell, members of the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and other members of the State Senate, Assembly and other industry and business groups and media joined in the event.

The event featured the awarding of Winery of the Year for the second consecutive year to Plagido’s Winery of Hammonton and Governor’s Cup for Best Grape wine  to Fox Hollow Vineyards of Holmdel for their 2014 Cabernet Franc, which also won Best Vinifera wine. Terhune Orchards of Princeton won the Governor’s Cup for fruit wine for their non-vintage Blueberry wine and Sharrott Winery of Blue Anchor took home the Governor’s Cup for Best Dessert wine for their 2013 Wicked Port, which also won for Best Hybrid wine.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association’s At the Vineyards  show puts the spotlight on vineyards throughout the state and allows consumers to see how each visit to a winery provides a unique experience. 

The At the Vineyards series is funded through  a USDA Crop Grant and by the Garden State Wine Growers Association.

The newest edition of the At the Vineyards Show features a visit to Heritage Vineyards in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, which is located in Gloucester County.  

The Heritage property has been farmed by the Heritage family for six generations since 1853. Bill Heritage and his wife Penni are the owners. The farm was originally a peach and apple farm but they elected to turn to grapes in 1999. In 2001 the winery opened and they have been one of the state’s best vineyards since, winning the Winery of the Year in 2011, 2014 and 2015 in the NJ Wine Competition.  Heritage Vineyards is located in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA region.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA), the advocacy organization that represents over 50 wineries, grape growers and associated member companies in New Jersey today released the first edition of its new At the Vineyard show on You Tube, featuring Four Sisters Winery located in Belvidere, NJ.

The At the Vineyard show is funded through a USDA Crop Grant and by the Garden State Wine Growers Association.  Funding for Crop Grants is not included in the Trump Administration’s proposed 2018 budget.

 “The GSWGA’s ongoing mission has been to increase the awareness, appreciation and quality of wines produced in New Jersey.  The At the Vineyard show puts the spotlight on vineyards throughout the state and allows consumers to see how each visit to a winery provides a unique experience,” said Tom Cosentino, GSWGA Executive Director and host of the show.

 New Jersey wines are being recognized nationally for their excellence in renowned wine competitions and the industry has seen tremendous growth with over 50 licensed wineries now operating in the state.

 The first program features owner and winemaker Matty Matarazzo of Four Sisters Winery, which has been in operation for 34 years.  The winery is located in the Warren Hills American Viticulture region, one of three Federally recognized AVA grape growing regions in the state.  The others are the Outer Coastal Plain in South Jersey and the Central Delaware Valley region. A fourth, the Cape May Peninsula is awaiting Federal approval and would become a sub-appellation of the Outer Coastal Plain.

NJ Discover is producing the series for the GSWGA.  Ten shows are planned through the fall of 2017.

 From only a dozen wineries open in 2000 to the 50 open today, the New Jersey wine industry is growing across the state with many more wineries due to open in the next couple of years.

 For a full list of participating wineries and details of the special offerings at each location, visit www.newjerseywines.com

From left to right: Audrey Gambino, Villa Milagro Vineyards, Julie Doninni, Auburn Road Vineyards and Regina Villari, Villari Vineyards.

At our debut Meet the Winemakers event held at Auburn Road Vineyards in Pilesgrove, NJ on May 9, 2017 we profiled the Women of New Jersey wine, Julie Doninni of Auburn Road Vineyards, Dr. Audrey Gambino of Villa Milagro Vineyards and Regina Villari of Villari Vineyards.  These three female winemakers are carrying on a tradition in the state that Mimi LaFollette Summerskill first pioneered in the 1980s.

According to her Wikipedia listing, Mimi with her husband, John Summerskill, founded LaFollette Vineyard in the Belle Mead section of Montgomery Township, New Jersey. They produced a Seyval blanc in the winery they built on their 30-acre  vineyard just north of Princeton, New Jersey. Their LaFollette brand was a local favorite and the annual grape harvest was featured in the November 15, 1989, issue of Wine Spectator.  Mimi was also a political activist and during the 1992 presidential campaign, Bill Clinton spent a day at the LaFollette Vineyard discussing political strategy with 14 Democratic governors and their staffs.

Each of the current Women of New Jersey wine each come from varied backgrounds as well. Doninni and her husband Scott and their partners purchased their vineyard in 2004 with the vineyard opening to the public in 2007.

Audrey Gambino holds a doctoral degree in nutrition and wine making credential both from the University of California.  That background and her early days growing up on a farm helped her dive into her wine making profession.  She is author of numerous books, a former television show host and one of the most quoted nutritionists in the country.  

Here Audrey discusses how she contemplates how to blend her wines.  

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7v4eC5TqxewSDYxbUllcE4zeEk/view?usp=sharing

Regina Villari is just four years removed from earning her communications degree from Villanova University. Her father offered Regina and her brother Joe an opportunity to repurpose the family farm in Sewell, NJ into a vineyard and that has been the focus of the family. Regina took viticulture courses at UC Davis and completed her Viticulture and Enology training in 2015. Here she and Julie talk about things they took away from their viticulture training.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7v4eC5TqxewMDAtWVJxQzBCTUE/view?usp=sharing

Julie notes that you need to always motivate yourself and challenge yourself as a winemaker to do better. She remembers attending a festival in town and selling three of Auburn Road’s wines.  “It was the first time selling wine and people were buying it.” recalled Doninni. “I couldn’t believe it!”

Why do women succeed in winemaking?  Julie thinks it’s because they have patience.

Looking for a special way to pay tribute to that special woman this Mother’s Day? Take her out to a winery as part of the Garden State Wine Growers Association’s annual “Mother’s Day Wine Trail Weekend” Saturday and Sunday May 13-14 from noon to 5 pm at participating wineries throughout the state. Each winery participating will pay tribute to these special women through special wine tastings and food pairings, live music, and other treats.

With 50 wineries now open in the state, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy an event-filled weekend at wineries located from Sussex County all the way to the tip of Cape May.

Winery events include free tastings for moms at DiBella Winery in Woolwich Township;  4JGs Winery in Colts Neck will be featuring wines paired with chocolates as Sheri from Chocolate Legends will be giving chocolate rose making demonstrations with recipes that can be recreated at home. Beneduce Vineyards in Pittstown will provide a special tasting of their limited production 2015 ‘TUXEDO’ White Pinot Noir and live music and Amalthea Cellars in Atco will be sampling current releases, library wines, as well as wines straight from the barrel along with cheese, crackers, and charcuterie. Iron Plow Vineyards in Columbus will have live musical entertainment.

Cava Winery in Hamburg, Four Sisters Winery in Belvidere, Hopewell Valley Vineyards in Pennington, Laurita Winery in New Egypt, Wagonhouse Winery in Swedesboro, Willow Creek Winery in Cape May and Tomasello Winery in Hammonton will all have special Mother’s Day brunch offerings while Old York Cellars in Ringoes will offer a specialty wine tasting in a small group setting, for 16 guests at a sitting, featuring an extended tasting of eight wines paired with hand-made desserts from Greensleeves Village Bake Shop. Old York Cellars will also be providing free musical entertainment, complimentary chocolate shots for mom (on Mother's Day only) in addition to wine tastings and a souvenir glass.

Valenzano Winery in Shamong has scheduled a Mother’s Day Wine Trail Picnic on Sunday. May 14th from 11am-4pm. Sharrott Winery in Blue Anchor will feature wine tasting, live music on the patio, plus dinner from Top Shelf Mobile Cuisine (Saturday & Sunday), Mannino’s Cannoli Express (Sunday), and Maninno’s Pizza Express (Sunday) on Mother’s Day Weekend. Summit City Farms in Glassboro will have oldies music on Friday night, May 12 and Country Music on Saturday May 13. Terhune Orchards in Princeton will feature free tastings for moms and live music and wine tastings in the Wine Barn and courtyard. On Saturday, May 13, Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes will have its 24th annual Spring Wine & Music Festival.

At Working Dog Winery in East Windsor, guests can sample estate bottled wines while listening to Cat Moon Daddy. A continental breakfast and other assorted treats will be available from 11:00 AM-1:30 PM and the Jersey Devil food truck will also be there with BBQ from 12:00-5:00 PM. Villa Milagro Vineyards in Finesville will celebrate “Dia de las Madres” with a delicacy native to Mexico – chocolate! A chocolate gift for “Mamacita” and tastes of their romantic chocolate infused wine, Beseme (means “Kiss me” in Spanish) will be offered.    

Hawk Haven Vineyard in Cape May will offer winery tours and Heritage Vineyards in Mullica Hill will host their annual Spring Wine & Cheese Event featuring local cheese makers Paul Lawler of Cherry Grove Farms in Lawrenceville and Melissa Crandley from Mecha Artisan Chocolate located in Haddon Township.

New Jersey wines hit the spotlight in the 17th annual San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, held the week of January 13 in Sonoma County, with Sharrott Winery of Winslow Township earning a Double Gold medal for their Wicked style port wine and 4JGs Winery (Colts Neck), Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes) and Sky Acres (Far Hills) earning gold medals.  The event is the largest wine competition of American wines in the world with over 7,000 entries in 2017.

Consumers in New Jersey regularly experience the quality of wines produced by the more than 50 wineries in the state. Wine judges in blind taste test competitions like the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition are able to judge wines by category without knowing the origin of the wine, thus eliminating any bias and ultimately scoring the wines based on their overall quality and taste.

 Overall in the competition, New Jersey wineries earned 30 medals, including one Double Gold, three Gold, seven Silver medals and 16 Bronze medals against competitors from 28 states in the country.

 New Jersey has three American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) for grape growing and the largest; the Outer Coastal Plain AVA in southern New Jersey produced 17 medals from member wineries: Bellview Winery (Landisville), Heritage Vineyard (Mullica Hill), Sharrott Winery (Blue Anchor/Hammonton), and White Horse Winery (Hammonton).

 NJ Medal Count:

Sharrott Winery - Double Gold, 3 Silver, 4 Bronze

Bellview Winery - 2 Silver, 5 Bronze

4 JGS Winery - Gold, Bronze

Heritage Vineyards - Silver, Bronze

Old York Cellars - Silver, Bronze

Unionville Vineyard - Gold, Silver, Bronze

White Horse Winery - 2 Silver, 2 Bronze

Sky Acres Winery - Gold, Bronze

 Unionville Vineyards earned a gold for their 2014 single vineyard series Chardonnay and a silver for its Single Vineyard Series, Pheasant Hill Vineyard 2013 Syrah; 4JGs Winery scored a gold for their 2014 Chambourcin and Sky Acres a gold for the 2015 Cabernet Franc.

 Sharrott Winery earned silver medals for its NV Tango Bordeaux blend, 2015 Chardonnay and 2013 Petit Verdot while Bellview Winery in Landisville won silver for its red blend Capella wine and its white blend Cygnus. Heritage Vineyards in Mullica Hill earned silver for its 2015 limited release white blend of Muscat, Albariño, and Chenin Blanc.  Old York Cellars in Ringoes won silver for its 2014 Syrah and White Horse Winery in Hammonton earned silver medals for their 2013 Cabernet Franc and 2015 Chardonnay.

 With almost 2,000 acres of New Jersey farmland dedicated to grapevine cultivation, and the state annually ranking in the top 15 in wine production, the Garden State has made its mark in the wine industry. From just a dozen producers 15 years ago, the Garden State now boasts over 50 licensed producers.

 The GSWGA is a coalition of nearly 50 wineries and vineyards across New Jersey, dedicated to raising the quality and awareness of the New Jersey wine industry.

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