April 4, 2025
Cape May, New Jersey , is often celebrated for its charming Victorian architecture, stunning beaches, and rich history. But nestled in the heart of this picturesque coastal town is a hidden gem that is rapidly becoming a must-visit destination for wine lovers — Cape May Winery & Vineyard . Offering a blend of scenic vineyard tours, rich winemaking history, and exceptional wines, this winery has emerged as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The History of Cape May Winery Cape May Winery's history dates back to 1989 when it was started by the Hayes family in conjunction with Rutger's Agricultural Co-op. The first test plot of Cabernet Sauvignon was planted that year at the Townbank Vineyard. After a few years of pruning, maturing, and patiently waiting, the first bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon was released in 1996. The winery continues to grow 11 grape varietals and produce more than 20 different types of South Jersey’s finest wines. The Cape May Peninsula’s soil and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provide a unique terroir that allows the winery to produce wines that showcase the area's natural richness and distinctive flavor profiles. Over the years, the winery has become synonymous with quality wine production, and its popularity has steadily grown, with many visitors flocking to the estate for a taste of the fine wines and the incredible views. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine wines or just beginning your journey into the world of viticulture, Cape May Winery offers an experience that will captivate and educate. The Cape May Vineyard Tour Experience One of the highlights of a visit to Cape May Winery is the vineyard tour, which offers guests the opportunity to explore the estate’s picturesque vineyards while learning about the winemaking process. Guided by knowledgeable staff, visitors can stroll through the lush vineyards, where rows upon rows of grapevines stretch toward the horizon. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into the grape-growing process—from the careful selection of grape varieties to the meticulous vineyard management practices that ensure high-quality fruit production. The tour guides share fascinating details about the region’s unique microclimate and how it impacts the flavor profiles of the wines produced at Cape May Winery. Guests will also get a behind-the-scenes look at the winery’s winemaking facility, where they can see the crushing, fermentation, and aging processes firsthand. The tour culminates in a wine tasting session , where visitors can sample a selection of wines crafted from the very grapes they just saw growing in the vineyard. The tasting is often accompanied by a discussion on wine pairings, tasting notes, and the art of appreciating different varietals. Wines to Enjoy Cape May Winery produces a wide variety of wines , each reflecting the unique characteristics of the region’s terroir. The winery is particularly known for its exceptional white wines, such as the crisp and refreshing Cape May Chardonnay, which offers notes of citrus and green apple. For red wine lovers, the winery’s signature blends, like the Cabernet Franc, are rich and robust, showcasing the complexity and depth that the vineyard’s soil imparts. Cape May Winery also produces sparkling wines, rosé, and dessert wines, giving visitors an opportunity to experience a diverse range of flavors. Whether you prefer light and crisp whites, bold reds, or elegant bubblies, there is a wine to suit every palate. The winery’s tasting room provides a relaxed setting where visitors can sip and savor the wines at their own pace, while learning more about the story behind each bottle. A Perfect Setting for Special Occasions Beyond the vineyard tours and wine tastings, Cape May Winery is also an ideal venue for special events . The winery offers private tours, group tastings, and even the opportunity to host weddings, corporate events, or intimate gatherings on its scenic grounds. The surrounding landscape, with its sweeping views of the vineyards and tranquil ambiance, creates the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. Additionally, the winery’s tasting room and outdoor seating areas are designed to make guests feel at home. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine on the patio or participating in one of the winery’s seasonal events, such as live music or harvest festivals, Cape May Winery offers a warm and welcoming environment where people can unwind and enjoy the best of what Cape May has to offer. Here is a list of other wineries in the area: Willow Creek Winery & Vineyard Hawk Haven Winery & Vineyard Jessie Creek Winery Natali Vineyards Book Prestige Car & Limo for your Winery Tour in Cape May, NJ Cape May Winery tours provide a captivating experience that blends history, nature, and exceptional wines. With the beautiful vineyards, rich winemaking heritage, and expert-guided tours, this winery and others listed are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the region’s thriving wine culture. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon in a breathtaking setting, Cape May Winery offers an experience that is as delightful as its wines. Locally-owned and operated, Prestige Car & Limo is proud to chauffeur wine enthusiasts to and from the wineries of their choice. With the weather warming up, now is the best time to start planning transportation for your visits to the vineyards in Cape May, so contact us to get a free quote and book a limo with us soon!