The 10 Best Wineries in New Jersey (That You MUST Visit!)
When it comes to wine tasting, states such as California and Oregon come to mind for the best states to go wine tasting. I actually didn’t even know that New Jersey had wineries, let alone understand the quality and caliber of these wineries! I am extremely happy that I stumbled upon some of the best wineries in NJ during my month long stay in Philadelphia.
The wine region is easily accessible from New York, Philadelphia, and the New Jersey coast, making this a perfect central region on the east coast for wine tasting!
With a rich history, diverse terroir, and affordable tasting prices, the gorgeous Garden State offers an unforgettable wine tasting experience that rivals its more renowned counterparts. I wanted to share some of the best wineries in New Jersey that I highly recommend every wine lover visit for an incredible wine tasting experience!
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Overview of Best New Jersey Wineries
Here’s a quick list of the best wineries in New Jersey!
South New Jersey Wineries:
- Turdo Vineyards & Winery (temporarily closed as of March 2024)
- Cape May Winery & Vineyard (A personal favorite NJ Vineyard!)
- Renault Winery Resort
Central/West New Jersey Wineries:
- Kennedy Cellars
- White Horse Winery
- Amalthea Cellars
- William Heritage Vineyards
North New Jersey Wineries:
- Cream Ridge Winery
- 4JG’s Vineyard
- Working Dog Winery
History of the New Jersey Wine Region
New Jersey’s winemaking heritage dates back to the colonial era. European settlers recognized the region’s favorable climate and fertile soil, which provided an ideal environment for vine cultivation.
Today, New Jersey boasts over 50 wineries, each with its own story and unique winemaking techniques!
Map of Wineries in NJ
Best Wineries in New Jersey (By Region)
New Jersey has wineries and vineyards spread out across the entire state! Some wineries produce their own grapes, while others import grapes internationally. Because of the small size of the state, it is easy to visit the entire region during a long weekend.
I’ve organized this list of best wineries in New Jersey by region to make your wine vacation even easier to plan!
South New Jersey Wineries
1. Turdo Vineyards & Winery
Don’t be fooled by the unassuming and smaller property of Turdo Vineyards & Winery, as it is one of the best wineries in all of New Jersey!
Turdo Vineyards has Italian roots that inspired the Italian varietals for this winery. This winery comes highly recommended for their incredible hospitality and even better wine!
NOTE: As of March 2024, Turdo Vineyards & Winery is temporarily closed.
2. Cape May Winery & Vineyard
Situated on a picturesque 70-acre farm, Cape May Winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations. They specialize in producing premium wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and their signature Cape May Red.
3. Renault Winery Resort
Renault Winery Resort is a mansion, hotel, golf course, and winery all in one luxury estate. Although I am typically a red wine drinker, they specialize in bubbly and I recommend getting this while tasting! They also have a fantastic coffee shop with desserts that were delightful.
Travel Tip: Renault Winery Resort is the best place to stay in the area if you are looking to book a weekend getaway!
Central/ West New Jersey Wineries
4. Kennedy Cellars
If you are looking to visit a winery that will make you feel right at home, look no further than Kennedy Cellars. This winery has incredibly friendly staff and even better wine.
They specialize in red wine but also have a selection of white wine and rosé. With an indoor tasting room and an outdoor patio, you are sure to be comfortable no matter the weather! It was one of my favorite wine tasting experiences in New Jersey!
5. White Horse Winery
Situated on a gorgeous vineyard, this family-owned winery is a must visit on any New Jersey wine tasting day. White Horse Winery is an extremely pleasant winery to visit, from their incredible hospitality to their beautiful gardens outside.
Macie is their adorable pup that will greet you when you arrive! Their winery has a stunning estate and gardens. Their chambourcin wine was some of the best I’ve ever had! They also have delicious cheese boards with bruschetta.
Travel Tip: The toll-roads in New Jersey require you to have coins! They do not accept dollars or credit card, and there is a $500 fine if you do not pay! Be sure to have at least $5 in quarters prior to your trip to avoid a hefty fine!
6. Amalthea Cellars
Situated on a gorgeous farm, Amalthea Cellars is a winery with rich history! The winery was started in 1972 and has since grown into a well-respected winery in the region.
The winemakers make California and Bordeaux-style wines! Tasting is EXTREMELY affordable at only $6 for a tasting! Who doesn’t love saving money while wine-tasting?!
I highly recommend a visit here for a beautiful experience in New Jersey wine country.
7. William Heritage Vineyards
With a rich winemaking history spanning four generations, William Heritage Vineyards is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in New Jersey.
They offer a diverse portfolio of wines, including reds, whites, fruit wines, and sparkling wines. Their rustic tasting room provides a cozy ambiance for enjoying their handcrafted wines.
North New Jersey Wineries
8. Cream Ridge Winery
Cream Ridge Winery is a family-friendly winery that has a large selection of fruit wine, as well as some typical red and white wine varietals. Founded in 1988, the founders and winemakers are extremely passionate about wine and make you feel like their family!
Try a range of fruit wines such as Kiwi wine, Blood Orange wine, as well as red wine such as Cabernet Franc! There is often music at this winery, making it the perfect outing for a summer evening.
9. 4JG’s Vineyard
4JG’s Vineyard is a gorgeous vineyard and estate that showcases some of the best wine in North New Jersey! This winery only accepts guests over 21 years of age, so you will have to leave the kids and dogs at home! There are ample tables outside to taste their wine at!
NOTE: As of March 2024, 4JG’s Vineyard is temporarily closed.
10. Working Dog Winery
Working Dog Winery is a cute farm-style estate in North New Jersey. There is a large lawn that can host larger groups for your tasting experience!
You are able to bring your own picnic when sitting out on the yard. They have red and white wine varietals for you to enjoy while you are here. During summer months there is often live music for you to enjoy while sipping your favorite wine!
Final Thoughts
New Jersey wineries are some of the most underrated wineries in the United States! I absolutely recommend checking it out if you live on the east coast! My other recommendations for wine regions in the area include the Finger Lakes, Lake Geneva, and Lake Erie!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to NJ wineries?
The New Jersey wineries are all within close proximity to Atlantic City, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, New York, NY, and Washington DC. You can choose one of these airports to fly into to visit the wine region and rent a car from there.
It’s always nice to read about the heritage and background of places. Great job digging up the history of wineries in the New Jersey region and everything one has to know to explore wineries out there.
Sounds like such a great list! Exploring vineyards is one the best day trips / experiences you can have while travelling😊
Wow, I had no idea there were so many wineries in New Jersey. I love how you’ve given so much information about them.
Maybe l’ve miss them but l don’t see any sharing buttons so l can tweet and pin this great post.
I didn’t realize how many picturesque wineries there are in New Jersey! Thanks for sharing all your recommendations!
The wineries sound dreamy. Would love to stay at the Renault Winery Resort and also taste some of their desserts.