When the weather turns from crisp to warm in wine country, it means delicious things for wine lovers. That’s because vintners release their first wines of the year. In the early spring, whites and rosés typically dominate the release schedule because they require less time aging in the barrel and bottle before they’re ready for you.
In a stroke of good fortune, whites and rosés also happen to pair perfectly with spring weather and farm-fresh spring dinners. Ready to chill some great New Jersey whites for pairing with young, fresh chevre, fish and chicken from the grill, sushi, light spring risottos and pastas? Dig in!
Sharrott Winery Uncorks the Whites
The award-winning Sharrott Winery is open daily, with scratch made food and often, great live music. The spring roster of releases includes their Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Vidal Blanc. The 2024 Dry Rosé is also in bottle. The Vidal Blanc is a true delight, fragrant, citrusy, with a light and playful body and a dry long finish. This pairs beautifully with a variety of seafoods, salads and cheeses, but it is particularly tasty with pork fried rice and honey-lemon chicken and roasted spring vegetables. And don’t miss Sharrott Winery’s special Spring Wine Dinner on April 10 from 6 pm to 9 pm. $80.
Laurita Winery Rolls Out the Riesling
Laurita Winery offers a full sensory experience, with great wine, a gift shop, gourmet foods and pergolas to enjoy it all—and epic vineyard views. Visitors who need to get away for a night can even stay next door at the Inn. Laurita has just released its 2024 Riesling, and the fruit-forward, crispy, off-dry wine is a great way to welcome spring, and a fabulous accompaniment for highly spiced dishes like fiery Thai takeout, Indian curry or taco Tuesday.
Tomasello Winery Is Ready for Friyay
As New Jersey’s oldest continuously owned family winery, Tomasello has seen a few Friyays in its time. The 68-acre estate offers a range of wines from Cabernet Sauvignon to Chardonnay, 100% non-grape fruit wines, methode champenoise sparklers, and vintage Port. If you’re ready to try a little of all of the above, head over to one of their many tasting rooms on Friday between 2 and 6 pm, when you’ll enjoy 50% off.
White Horse Winery Is Throwing a Spring Wine Party
White Horse Winery is rolling out the red carpet for the busy seasonand anyone who wants to celebrate. There’s a lot going on, from the winery’s annual adult Easter Egg Hunt on April 13, to a special Wine & Wellness Wednesday on April 16 from 5 pm to 8 pm, with psychic readings, healing sessions, and local craft vendors. Plus, starting April 15, White Horse Winery Club members can pick up their spring selection. As a thank you, club members who pick up their shipment during the first week of the drop can enjoy a complimentary glass. If you aren’t a member of a favorite winery yet, consider joining. In addition to supporting a great local family producer, you’ll get seasonal selections of wines, plus huge discounts and exclusive member-only events.
Bellview Winery Springing Into the Weekend
In observation of Spring’s glory, Bellview Winery is offering mini Spring flings every Friday in April in May. Fun enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to come out between 4 pm and 8 pm every Friday for $2 off all glasses of wine, $9 wine flights, and special $6 mini platters, including Provolone and honey mustard, Cheddar, chocolate bites, pita wedges, and hummus. Live music will go on every Friday, too, from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. To really mark the new season, come out on April 12 and April 13 from 12 pm to 5 pm, when Bellview Winery will formally welcome the arrival of warm weather with a Spring Fling. There will be Spring wine cocktails, live music, special tastings, craft vendors, and more.
