gorgeous place for a while with a glass of good wine. They have some good white and red wines. We... read more
gorgeous place for a while with a glass of good wine. They have some good white and red wines. We... read more
We recently hosted a get together for friends and family at Hopewell Valley Vineyards. From start... read more
While looking for the Mercer Airport, we decided to stop by The Hopewell Valley Vinyard. To say its visually as well as tastefully attractive would be an understatement. We were pleasantly surprised and forgot all about the airport we had found for a future trip. Those 6 wines for 6$ was more than just a tasting, and you were given a bit more than the usual drop. I really don't understand how/why some wineries use those stoppers, with you ending up with less than one mouthful. No one is there is drink, but you do need something to taste and Hopewell was generous without going overboard. I can't say the last time I was at a winery(probably Valenzano) where we tasted so many fine wines. My wife and I enjoyed the Vidal Blanc the most, the thin bottle reminded us of Ice Wine. If you have never had ice wine or don't know the story, you should read about. Back to Hopewell, how about going to their Merlot and Music evening, or Jazzy Sunday events. Those behind the bar serving the wine tasting were as great as the wine they were serving. And the gounds where you can picnic outside or just relax and enjoy the view, well its more than worth the trip. While there are many fine wineries in NJ, this one now has catapulted near the top, and you should try it too. Can't wait to return, and bring another great wine and memory back home.
My Girlfriends and I went to a wine tasting and tour on Mother's day. We had a great time! The weather was nice and the staff was very informative and friendly. We tasted a variety of wines, they offer cheese plates for purchase as well. I'd be interested in coming back for a music night. I purchased a bottle of the White Merlot, the Vidal Blanc was good too.
We enjoyed a couple hours today at the Hopewell Valley Vineyards in Pennington, NJ. Although crowded and wine tasting started a bit late, our hostess Violeta was congenial and knowledgeable about most things wine. This family owned and operated winery produces quite a few locally grown varietals as well as imported grape specialties. It's an excellent education in wines and wine making.
I love wine and grew up in an Italian household where I began drinking at 4 years old (diluted, of course). Most of my elders made their own wine but I found that drinking wine is the greatest truth. So I really enjoyed this small but focused winery. They know the limit that climate places on growing grapes and won't push beyond what is practical and controllable. Hence, the imported juices which go to fermentation and produce fine varietals in their own right.
We tasted 6 wines, starting with the lightest whites and progressing to the heavier reds. Violeta explained each selection and after the less than an hour tasting session, we moved to the pressing and processing room for an in-depth explanation of the workings. Enjoyed seeing the beautiful French Oak barrels in the cellar aging several wines. From the explanation, we gathered that this operation is quite "green" and no chemicals are used to protect or enhance the grape vines, and the residue of production is cycled back into the earth, etc.
I'm not a fan of New Jersey wines and have been to several in the state plus 36 wineries in Napa and Sonoma. I'm fond of California wines but I found that the Hopewell Valley Cabernet Sauvignon was the best of the flight tasting today and worthy of mention. It was lighter than most cabs with a fair amount of complexity, good nose, solid taste, and good finish. We also like the White Merlot which we stocked up on at only $12.95 a bottle. The day's outing was a fun change from our usual Sunday activities.
I recommend this tour but be sure to reserve at least 2 weeks ahead, and there is a charge. Ask about the weekend entertainment and evening events on the grounds. You may want to ask about the local restaurants that serve their wine if you're looking for a place to eat later.
My husband and I bought a groupon for a wine tasting and tour of the winery. The tasting included a sampling of 6 or 7 of the most popular wines. The tasting portions were plentiful and the staff was friendly. The owner Sergio explained each wine as he went along and it was very informative. The tour was short but full of information. I would recommend the winery for couples and a small group of friends.
Best to go when you can smell the grapes on the vines and watch the sunset. The wine is fine and if they are making pizza you in for a pleasent evening.
Beautiful winery & tasty wines. Reasonably priced. Knowledgeable friendly staff. Did the tasting... $6 for 6 wines of your choice + a glass from the winery. Would definately return!