New Jersey Wineries Are Uncorking Holiday Fun!
Well, whether you’re ready or not, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. So for New Jersey wineries, it’s time to put on a festive holiday show of their…
BATH, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 08: Christmas shoppers stop for mulled wine as they browse stalls at the traditional Christmas market close to the historic Roman Baths and Bath Abbey on December 8, 2015 in Bath, England. Originating in Germany, Christmas markets have become increasingly popular in British cities as a way of boosting festive sales and visitor numbers. (Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
Well, whether you're ready or not, it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. So for New Jersey wineries, it's time to put on a festive holiday show of their own!
From holiday wines, to special food menus, New Jersey wineries each have a special plan in mind to get you through their doors this Holiday Season. Some are touting using their venues for the extra special office holiday party. Others are bringing kids activities to their vineyards, so mom and dad can relax and not worry about getting a sitter, While still others are going all out and making their own magical holiday extravaganza in a land you may not ever want to leave!
Let's be Franc...
New Jersey has never been known for their great wines. Wineries with fun activities? Yes! Vineyards to stroll, and restaurants to fine dine? Sure! Great tasting wine? Well...Not so much. However, they have come a long way with the official wine grape of the Garden State, the Cabernet Franc. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Cabernet Franc, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chambourcin, are the red-wine grape varietals most widely grown in New Jersey. Some people are not used to the different taste of Cabernet Franc, but if it's blended properly, I have found it to be more than palatable, and in fact, quite good!
So many New Jersey Wineries, so little holiday time.
One thing is for sure. With New Jersey's 51 wineries, producing wine from more than 90 varieties of grapes, as well as from over 25 other fruits, there is a lot of fun to be had this Holiday Season. Here is just a small list of some of my favorite wineries, and what events they have planned. Also, don't think all events take place on weekends. Many wineries have mid week holiday arts and craft events, like paint and sip, wreathmaking, and Christmas ball decorating.
Renault Winery 72 Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City
It's Vinter Wonderland! Fire pits, live music inside and out, bars, vendors, Christmas trees, and oh yeah, a skating rink! Every weekend all winter long!
Laurita Winery 85 Archertown Rd, New Egypt
Everything from Johnny Cash and Elvis Holiday shows, to a killer daily menu. Beautiful property.
Cape May Winery 711 Town Bank Rd, Cape May
Looking for a special holiday gift try their Isaac Smith Ports! Try a flight before you buy!
Willow Creek Winery 168 Stevens St, West Cape May
Check out their Sip n Shop, consecutive weeks in December! Maybe you better shop, then sip?
Cream Ridge Winery 145 County Road 539 Allentown
Just in time for the Holidays, it's the release of their Petite Sirah and Gift Basket Season!
Hawk Haven Vineyard 600 South Railroad Avenue Rio Grande
Live music and food trucks every weekend in December. Be sure to try their Bastard Hawk Hard Cider in a can while you're there!
Villa Milagro Vineyards 33 route 627 Phillipsburg
They are having a special Christmas Concert on December 10th, among other festivities throughout the month.
