Updated July 2024. Cape May, NJ, has charming Victorian architecture, pristine beaches, and a rich history. Still, you may be surprised that it is also a fantastic destination for wine enthusiasts. Wineries in Cape May, NJ, benefit from the same type of climate as Bordeaux, France!

Visiting the wineries will allow you to experience numerous grape varieties, such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pino Grigio, and Riesling. Cape May, NJ, boasts wineries that offer delightful experiences for both novice and seasoned wine lovers. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, this guide will help you discover your favorite wineries in Cape May, NJ. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of wine for those restaurants in town with a BYOB policy!

1. Cape May Winery & Vineyard

Location: 711 Townbank Road, Cape May, NJ

Overview: Cape May Winery & Vineyard is one of the area’s oldest and most established wineries. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, this winery offers a comprehensive wine-tasting experience.

What to Try:

Estate Red Field Blend: This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc is perfect for red wine lovers. Aged in both new and used French oak barrels.
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: This was a 2024 NJ Governor’s Cup winner for best red vinifera.
Cape May Pinot Grigio: The perfect wine for a Cape May summer day.
Estate Barrel Fermented Chardonnay: This wine is aged 11 months in barrels.

Highlights:

Complete a self-guided tour of the building and note the antique chandelier, the vine chandelier, the aerial map, and custom tabletops.
Daily tapas menu.
Educational wine tastings are available with reservations.

2. Willow Creek Winery & Farm

Location: 168 Stevens Street, West Cape May, NJ

Overview: On a picturesque 50-acre farm, Willow Creek Winery & Farm is a must-visit for its stunning landscape near the Cape May Lighthouse. Enjoy an otherworld feeling as you walk through the carefully tended estate.

What to Try:

Estate Grown Malvasia: Originally from Greece, this white wine is crisp with hints of grapefruit and lemon.
Wilde Cock Prestige Silver: An American-style Riesling with honeysuckle and Valencia Orange.
Wilde Cock Prestige Red: A full-bodied super-Tuscan blend.
Wilde Cock Red: A full-bodied Malbec with juicy and jammy black fruits with vanilla.

Highlights:

Reserve a vineyard tour or educational wine tasting.
The rustic Tasting Hall seats 300.
Check out the live music schedule and Firepit Fridays.

3. Turdo Vineyards & Winery

Location: 3911 Bayshore Road, North Cape May, NJ

Overview: Turdo Vineyards & Winery is a family-owned boutique winery that prides itself on producing old-world Italian varietals, like Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, and Barbera. The vineyard is known for its commitment to environmentally friendly practices and small-batch, handcrafted wines.

What to Try:

Grillo: A Sicilian white wine with aromas of citrus and apple and a salty mineral finish.
Rosato: The Italian version of a French Rose with scents and flavors of strawberry and raspberry.
Barbera: A fresh and vibrant red with red fruit flavors and spice aroma.
Rosso Super Tuscan: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, and Merlot..

Highlights:

Winery runs on 100% solar power.
Stunning views of the vineyard.
A focus on organic and sustainable winemaking.

4. Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery

Location: 600 South Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande, NJ

Overview: Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery is a multi-generational family farm operated by a talented husband-and-wife team. It offers a laid-back yet sophisticated wine-tasting experience. The team is currently concentrating on creating the perfect bottle of sparkling wine.

What to Try:

2021 Q Bordeaux Blend: Plum and cinnamon on the palate with violets and black currants aromas.
Proprietors Red Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Sirah blend.
Fizz Nouveau: Sparkling Pinot Noir with 1.4% residual sugar.
Signature Series Sauvignon Blanc: Passionfruit and lemon verbena on the palate.

Highlights:

Summer concert series with food trucks.
Special wines are available only through Club membership.
Daily Vineyard tours and tastings.

5. Natali Vineyards

Location: 221 North Delsea Drive, Cape May Court House, NJ

Overview: Natali Vineyards has focussed on small-batch, hand-picked, and bottled wines. New ownership is broadening the availability of favorite varietals and expanding space for concerts and entertainment.

What to Try:

Estate Pinot Gris: French-style white wine with hints of pear and honey.
Captain Vinho: A port-style wine made of Cabernet and Syrah, perfect with chocolate.
Cranberry: Smells like cranberries and tastes like Ocean Spray on steroids.

Highlights:

Unique and diverse wine selection.
Picnicking on the grounds is encouraged.
Beautiful outdoor seating areas.

6. Jessie Creek Winery

Location: 1 Rte 47 North, Cape May Court House

Overview: Jessie Creek is a boutique winery specializing in estate-grown white and red varietals. Their 5-acre vineyard is hand-picked and supplemented with other local and out-of-state grapes to increase bottling.

What to Try:

Chambourcin
Stratus Syrah
Sunny Day Chardonnay
Fruit Wines

Highlights:

Visit the on-site inn and art gallery.
Check out the concert schedule.
Look for seasonal drinks like hot apple wine or chocolate wine cream.

Cape May’s Other Activities

Besides the wineries in Cape May, NJ, there are even more craft breweries! You will want to plan a getaway of at least a long weekend to cover the beach, watersports, history, and fine dining options. If it all seems overwhelming, just grab a free beach pass, chair, and towels and watch the waves splash onto the shore. Vacation at your own pace!