Cape May Winery & Vineyard Wine Tastings in New Jersey - Philadelphia, PA

Cape May Winery & Vineyard Wine Tastings in New Jersey

Philadelphia, PAeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for all adults

Overview

Cape May Winery & Vineyard offers rich, educational wine tastings and vibrant group experiences in scenic Cape May, New Jersey. Discover local grape varietals, summer grill nights, and behind-the-scenes tours in a welcoming coastal setting.

Details

Located in Cape May, New Jersey, Cape May Winery & Vineyard offers a distinctive blend of agritourism and sensory discovery right on the Jersey Shore. Unlike the sprawling vineyards of California, this compact winery thrives on its intimate atmosphere and commitment to locally farmed grapes. Visitors can book a variety of immersive wine tasting experiences that go beyond the glass. From weekday educational tastings to larger group events on weekends, Cape May Winery serves up an authentic touch of coastal winemaking with an approachable vibe.

Cape May itself is known for its historic Victorian architecture and beaches, but the winery provides a unique draw for both locals and travelers seeking something different. The vineyard’s outdoor spaces evoke a fresh-air charm that pairs perfectly with their thoughtfully crafted wines. Seasonal events like the Summer Grill Nights, running Friday evenings April through October, combine robust reds and crisp whites with seasonal grilled fare, highlighting the winery’s forward-thinking food and wine pairings.

The winery also offers specialized experiences such as the Winemaker Tour, which invites guests to get behind the scenes and learn about the grape-growing process in a coastal climate. This hands-on approach lends a practical edge to the tasting, breaking down the craft and science that shape each bottle.

As a business, Cape May Winery stands out for its emphasis on both education and conviviality—welcoming large groups yet maintaining a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Dog-friendly seating areas add a down-to-earth local flavor rarely seen in traditional wine regions. If you're nearby or passing through, setting aside an afternoon here is a chance to taste crisp New Jersey-grown wines and soak up Cape May’s slower rhythm, well away from the typical wine country crowd.

Adventure Tips

Reserve tables in advance

Large group tastings and weekend seats fill up quickly, especially from April to October. Book early to secure your spot.

Bring a light jacket for evenings

Summer Grill Nights and outdoor tastings can get cool after sunset along the coast, so pack accordingly.

Ask about dog-friendly seating

Designated outdoor areas welcome leashed dogs; check with staff to find suitable seating before arrival.

Designate a driver or use ride services

To fully enjoy the tastings and wine flights, plan for safe transportation options as alcohol is served.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The vineyard's port and vermouth samplers, a unique offering among East Coast wineries
  • Insider Winemaker Tours that offer candid insight into the row-to-bottle journey

Wildlife

  • Coastal songbirds common to Cape May’s flora
  • Eastern box turtles native to nearby woodlands

History

Cape May is one of America’s oldest seaside resort towns, with a winemaking tradition that adapts to its distinctive maritime climate.

Conservation

The vineyard follows sustainable practices focused on soil health and biodiversity to maintain the coastal ecosystem integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late afternoon
Overcast midday

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlook of vineyard rows against the Cape May skyline
  • Seating areas during summer grill nights with live music
  • The tasting bar with wine flights and glassware reflections

What to Photograph

Grape clusters on the vine
Rustic barrels and cellar architecture
Visitors enjoying outdoor tastings

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

The vineyard grounds and outdoor seating areas involve light walking on gravel and grass.

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Essential

Outdoor events and tastings often take place in open-air settings where shade is limited.

spring|summer|fall specific

Light jacket or windbreaker

Essential

Cape May’s coastal breezes can cool outdoor gatherings, especially in the evenings.

spring|fall|summer evenings specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated while enjoying tastings and walking the vineyard acreage.