The 10 Best Wineries in South Jersey
New Jersey has recently become known as a premier wine producing region, as well as a growing one. In fact, the state is ranked seventh in the United States in terms of wine volume produced. 1,500 acres are planted to vineyards throughout New Jersey, and South Jersey has over 30 wineries and vineyards within its bounds.
The area defined as South Jersey (between the lower Delaware River and Atlantic Ocean) falls within the Outer Coastal Plain AVA (American Viticultural Area), which was established in 2007 and has one sub-AVA Cape May Peninsula AVA, established in 2018.
South Jersey tends to be slightly warmer than the northern part of the state and quite humid. Breezes off of the Atlantic help temper the humidity and moderate the climate.
Soils here are mainly sand and/or sandy loam. These soils are well draining and have low fertility, allowing for the cultivation of high quality vines.
Due to the varied climate, a wide range of grape varieties are grown in South Jersey, including the more well known vinifera varieties as well as grapes native to North America and hybrids (grape varieties bred to withstand local conditions). Some of the most widely planted vinifera varieties include Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Merlot.
There are a number of wine trails established throughout the state. The Pinelands Reserve Wine Trail, Two Bridges Wine Trail, and Cape May Wine Trail are all in this area. These trails offer guidance on local wineries, of course, but also dining, shopping, accommodations, and more. Refer to these resources and our rankings before taking in some of South Jersey’s best wineries. Cheers!
To learn more about our winery ranking process, our CW score, or how we gather and analyze data, please click here.
Note: We do our best to maintain up to date information on all wineries featured. However, we recommend checking directly with a winery before planning a visit. If you find any information below that needs to be updated please let us know.
1. Valenzano Family Winery
CW Score: 95.4
Website: valenzanowine.com
Address: 1090 US-206 Shamong, NJ 8088
Phone: 609-268-6731
Overview: Winning dozens of prestigious awards for fantastic wines, Valenzano Winery has been hard at work since 1996. Based in Shamong, the family proudly maintains 88 acres of farm and vineyards to produce 100% locally grown wine.
Started by a father and two sons who shared a love for winemaking, Valenzano Winery is now the leading producer and distributor of east coast wines in New Jersey. Stop by for an unforgettable tasting, and enjoy a delicious meal at the Bari Wine Pub while you’re at it.
2. Balic Winery
CW Score: 85.8
Website: balicwinery.com
Address: 6623 Harding Hwy Mays Landing, NJ 8330
Phone: 609-625-2166
Overview: Nicknamed, “The winery with the European accent”, you’ll feel worlds away on this 57 acre vineyard and winery. Making over 27 award-winning wines, enjoy a complimentary tasting, pet the winery’s friendly dog, Mariah, and relax in the fresh country air.
While food is not served at the winery, picnics are strongly encouraged…especially since there are countless spots to spread out a blanket on the lush grass, and simply unwind. Balic Winery is open 7 days a week.
3. Bellview Winery
CW Score: 85.0
Website: bellviewwinery.com
Address: 150 Atlantic St Landisville, NJ 8326
Phone: 856-697-7172
Overview: Growing over 20 grape varietals right on the estate, Bellview Winery has a diverse range of wines to choose from. Whether you prefer red, white, sweet, or dry, they have something for everyone.
One of the specialty wines that’s a must-try is their dandelion wine, made from their traditional family recipe. (A bottle of which is a sure fire way to impress dinner guests)! Delight in a meat and cheese platter, and perhaps a sampler flight of 4 wines of your choice to go with it. The perfect way to spend a day away!
4. Cream Ridge Winery
CW Score: 83.7
Website: creamridgewinery.com
Address: 145 County Road 539 Allentown NJ 08514
Phone: 609-259-9797
Overview: Since the winery opened in 1988, owners Tom and Joan Amabile have been sharing their passion and love for wine with visitors. They take pride in making 100% locally grown wines, with popular bottles such as the Jerseyberry wine, made from Cranberries and Chardonnay grapes (the ultimate refresher).
Gaze out at the breathtaking 14 acres of vineyards, taste the amazing handcrafted wines, and occasionally enjoy live music hosted right at the winery.
5. Plagido’s Winery
CW Score: 83.7
Website: plagidoswinery.com
Address: 570 N 1st Rd Hammonton, NJ 8037
Phone: 609-567-4633
Overview: Plagido’s Winery specializes in small, artisanal wines that are pressed in a traditional basket press. Located in the Outer Coastal Plain, the tasting room is open 7 days a week. Escape to this little oasis in the heart of South Jersey and let the wines speak for themselves!
The patio overlooks a stunning view of the vineyard with plenty of seating to get comfortable. Treat yourself to a cheese plate to pair with their award winning wines.
6. Autumn Lake Winery
CW Score: 79.7
Website: autumnlakewinery.com
Address: 870 W Malaga Rd Williamstown, NJ 8094
Phone: 856-516-4594
Overview: Autumn Lake Winery encourages guests to make themselves at home by bringing lawn chairs and picnic blankets to spread out on. Live music and seasonal bonfires are popular on-site activities. Outside food is welcome, although the winery does offer cheese boards and often hosts food trucks, and the winery is dog friendly.
Autumn Lake has nine acres of estate vineyards, and all of their remarkable wines are made from estate grown fruit. Popular varieties include Viognier and Merlot.
7. White Horse Winery
CW Score: 79.1
Website: whitehorsewinery.com
Address: 106 Hall St Hammonton, NJ 8037
Phone: 609-270-1411
Overview: White Horse Winery is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays). Pets are welcome in the outside areas, and they offer a selection of in-house food items.
White Horse produces incredible wines from a variety of native, hybrid, and vinifera grapes, including Cayuga, Chardonnay, Traminette, and Cabernet Franc. Many of the grapes are sourced directly from the estate. Food trucks, live music, and regular happy hours all have a place on the winery’s events calendar. What more could you ask for?
8. DiBella Winery
CW Score: 78.9
Website: dibellawinery.com
Address: 229 Davidson Rd Woolwich Township, NJ 8085
Phone: 609-221-6201
Overview: DiBella Winery crafts all of their wines entirely from estate grapes. Popular wines include the Chardonnay, a blush-style rosé, Merlot, and several signature blends. The tasting room is open daily, but hours vary so be sure to check ahead.
Looking for something special? They also offer seasonal wine ‘cocktails’ to add even more variety. You’re welcome to bring a picnic with you to enjoy on the scenic grounds. With live music every Friday evening, DiBella has a lot to offer guests.
9. Amalthea Cellars
CW Score: 78.3
Website: amaltheacellars.com
Address: 209 Vineyard Rd Atco, NJ 8004
Phone: 856-768-8585
Overview: The signature experience at Amalthea Cellars is the Cellars Tasting – a tour through the property, complete with multiple tastes of their premium dry and off-dry wines.
Other tasting options include set white and red flights, as well as customizable ones. Reservations can be made via email or over the phone. The tasting room is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Highly sought-after wines at Amalthea Cellars include their Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah.
10. Salem Oak Vineyards
CW Score: 76.3
Website: salemoakvineyards.com
Address: 60 N Railroad Ave Pedricktown, NJ 8067
Phone: 856-889-2121
Overview: Family owned and operated Salem Oak Vineyards is a boutique winery offering a wide range of wines, including seasonal sangrias and slushies. Wine by the glass or bottle, as well as flights, is available in the tasting room, along with an extensive food menu featuring everything from light bites and appetizers to hearty entrees.
Be sure to check out the special Sunday Brunch menu, if you can. The tasting room is closed on Mondays and hours vary throughout the week.
Plan Your Visit to South Jersey’s Top Wineries
With these remarkable wineries in mind, it’s time to start planning your visit. We’ve partnered with some of the top travel brands to help you secure the best deals available and to make your trip truly unforgettable.
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Unforgettable Experiences
Viator.com (a TripAdvisor company) is our recommended vendor for finding unbelievable local experiences to complement your time visiting wineries.
Guided tours, hot air balloon rides, and scavenger hunts are just a few of the types of excursions you can find to book on Viator.
Pro Tip: Book limousine services for your group in order to safely enjoy a custom winery tour in style.
Travel & Accommodations
Expedia.com is our recommended travel vendor for booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and more.
Great deals and discounted packages are just the start. Expedia will allow you to tailor your trip to fit your needs and preferences.
Whether you’re looking to book a first class flight, to stay at a 5 star hotel, or to book a quaint bed and breakfast, Expedia can help to secure your perfect travel arrangements across their vast network of travel and accommodation providers.
Plan for a Winery Picnic
Finally, review our picnic-packing tips for a day at the wineries. We include a packing checklist, tips on dressing for the occasion, and food pairing considerations for the different types of wine you might encounter. Cheers!