The Cape May wine region, located along the southern tip of New Jersey, is one of the state’s most scenic and beloved wine areas. The region is known for its combination of coastal climate and fertile soils, which make for excellent wine production, particularly for wines like Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.

Top Wineries to Visit:

Cape May Winery & Vineyard  – This historic winery offers breathtaking views of Cape May and its neighboring vineyards. Enjoy tastings of their award-winning wines while taking in the beautiful scenery.

- Willow Creek Winery** – With its Mediterranean-style tasting room and farm-to-table bistro, Willow Creek offers a perfect blend of gourmet food and wine.

- Natali Vineyards** – A family-owned winery producing a variety of reds, whites, and blends. The winery also hosts seasonal events, making it a fun destination year-round.

Tour Highlights:

- Coastal Vineyard Tours** – Explore the coastal vineyards on a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride, followed by wine tasting in a charming setting.

- Private Tastings – Experience intimate, personalized tours and wine tastings with expert sommeliers and winemakers.

- Annual Wine Festivals – Don’t miss the Cape May Wine Festival, where you can sample wines from across the region while enjoying live music and local food.

The Warren Hills American Viticultural Area (AVA) is a hidden gem located in the northwestern part of New Jersey. Known for its cool climate and diverse soil types, this region produces exceptional wines, particularly varietals like Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.

Top Wineries to Visit: 

-Brook Hollow Winery – A family-friendly vineyard that offers fantastic red wines and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

- Villa Milagro Vineyards – Known for its sustainable practices and beautiful grounds, Villa Milagro offers wines that range from bold reds to crisp whites.

- Cava Winery & Vineyard– A charming vineyard offering fine wines with a focus on quality and terroir, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Tour Highlights:

- Guided Vineyard Walks– Take a guided tour of the vineyards and learn about the unique soil and growing conditions that make Warren Hills wines so special.

- Tasting and Food Pairings– Enjoy wine pairings with local artisanal cheeses and snacks.

- Seasonal Wine Events– Many wineries in the Warren Hills region host wine releases and harvest celebrations.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) Tour

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing wine tour experience, the Garden State Wine Growers Association (GSWGA) offers a unique opportunity to visit multiple wineries across the state. The GSWGA runs special events, such as **Jersey Fresh Wine Weekends**, where you can explore different wineries in one trip.

Popular Wineries Along the GSWGA Tour:

- Terhune Orchards Vineyard & Winery*

– Located in the heart of New Jersey’s wine country, this winery specializes in fruit-based wines and is perfect for those who enjoy a variety of flavors.

- Sharrott Winery*– Situated in the Mullica Hill area, Sharrott Winery offers a wide selection of wines, from classic reds to experimental blends.

- Old York Cellars– A hidden gem in the hills of Hunterdon County, known for its exceptional customer service and wide selection of wines.

Tour Highlights:

- Wine Tasting Passports– Purchase a wine passport that grants you access to multiple wineries, offering great discounts and special experiences at each stop.

- Food and Wine Pairings– Many of the GSWGA wineries host food trucks, cheese boards, and other culinary experiences to pair perfectly with your wine tastings.

- Special Themed Tours– From harvest tours to holiday wine festivals, these themed tours are a great way to explore the vineyards in a fun and festive atmosphere.

For those who seek a more off-the-beaten-path wine experience, the Adirondacks offer a unique blend of natural beauty and hidden gems in winemaking. Although still a relatively new wine region, the Adirondacks are gaining recognition for producing cool-climate wines, especially hybrid grape varieties.

Highlights:

Take a scenic drive through the Adirondack Wine Trail, where you can visit wineries like Adirondack Winery and Point of the Bluff Vineyards.

Enjoy the stunning mountain views while sipping on award-winning wines.

Discover a range of wines, from fruit-infused blends to light whites and robust reds.

Combine your wine tour with outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and spa experiences.

The Niagara Escarpment, stretching along the shores of Lake Ontario, is a breathtaking wine region perfect for lovers of both natural beauty and great wine. Known for its Riesling and ice wines, this region produces exceptional wines thanks to its unique climate and rich soil.

Highlights:

Tour the famous Niagara Wine Trail, where you can visit wineries such as Arrowhead Spring Vineyards and Freedom Run Winery.

Visit Niagara Falls, just a short drive away, for the ultimate combination of wine and nature.

Experience tastings at boutique wineries and enjoy scenic vineyard views overlooking the stunning landscape.