Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a glass of crisp Pinot Grigio now and then, you won’t have to venture too far from the Whistling Swan Inn to experience good wines. It’s not surprising that most wineries are family owned and managed by multiple generations. Here are three of our favorites:
Brook Hollow Winery, Columbia, NJ
Located in the scenic Delaware Water Gap, Brook Hollow Winery boasts handcrafted wine fermented, aged and bottled by the family. Vintner, Paul Ritter, not only produces high quality, dry red and white wines, but has recently released a cranberry wine that gets its rich flavor by using 100% cranberries. It has rapidly become a fan favorite and is known all over. It’s always good to check out Brook Hollow’s event calendar. Throughout the year they offer a variety of themed events that are sure to keep you coming back.
Four Sisters Winery, Belvidere, NJ
What began in the early 80’s as a way to finance the four sisters’ education has evolved into a major operation 33 years later. Four Sisters Winery opened its doors in 1984 with 5 wines. Today, with patriarch, Matty Matarazzo, still at the helm, it offers 20 award-winning wines to select from as well as an abundance of activities to enjoy, on the 250-acre farm. Throughout the year there are dozens of events such as grape stomping à la Lucy Ricardo, Murder Mystery dinners and music and wine festivals held at the winery.
Tomasello Winery, Chester, NJ and Lafayette, NJ
The Tomasello story began in 1933 when New Jersey berry farmer, Frank Tomasello, learned of the impending repeal of Prohibition. He hurried to Washington, DC and managed to secure winery license #68, one of the oldest in the country. He started off with three wines, a red, white and rosé, all named after his wife. Today, Tomasello Winery produces 45 award-winning wines. Several wine-tasting rooms are located throughout the state, including one at Alstede Farms in Chester and Ideal Farm and Garden Center in Lafayette. Reservations are required.
Turn a Day Trip Into a Weekend Getaway
There’s no better way to enhance your winery excursion than by staying overnight at the Whistling Swan Inn. Our exquisitely appointed rooms combine modern luxury with Victorian elegance. Wake up to the aroma a freshly brewed coffee, and enjoy a scrumptious full breakfast each morning of your stay.