If you find yourself on the way to Cape May, a stop at Jessie Creek Winery is a must!
Jessie Creek Winery, 1 North Route 47 in Cape May Court House, is one of New Jersey’s newest wineries. Jessie Creek opened in April 2012, but the vineyard was established in 2002. Co-owners Bruce Morrison and Art Reale made their first vintage in 2010, but were caught up in the red tape of New Jersey’s Wine Shipping Bill which forced them to cellar their wines for nearly 15 months!
But don’t worry, Jessie Creek wines are worth the wait! Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay, the winery enjoys a micro mini climate that extends the grape growing season, allowing for flavorful varieties of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and several others. This climate combined with the sandy soil of the shore provides a little piece of Italy right in the heart of South Jersey.
Right now Jessie Creek offers 5 wines, two whites and three reds. I am glad to see that this new winery decided to go for quality over quantity. Morrison and Reale have worked closely with several established wine makers in New Jersey to carefully craft their first vintage. And it shows.
Pinot Grigio – Deep-golden in color, floral and dry. $15
Chardonnay – Fermented in oak for 6 months and then moved to steel. Crisp with a mineral finish. $15
Chambourcin – My favorite from this winery! Dark berries with a kiss of oak. This rivals any Chambourcin in the state. $15
Merlot – Notes of cherry with of burst of herbs on the finish. Another impressive wine! $15
Cabernet Sauvignon – This Cab Sauv hits all the right notes. A fine example of the grape. $15
The winery is located on the grounds of The Inn at Jessie Creek, an elegant bed and breakfast in a beautifully renovated 1846 farmhouse. Choose from 4 large suites all with private baths, TV, and high speed internet. Just imagine enjoying an evening bonfire with a glass of wine or sunrise over the vineyard.
Jessie Creek Winery may be new, but its wines are traditional and carefully crafted. It’s located in a lovely setting for a quick stop or a weekend getaway. You don’t want to miss these great New Jersey wines!
Where: 1 North Route 47, Cape May Courthouse.
When: Tasting Room is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm.
How much: Tastings, $5 per person. All wines are $15.
Services: Bed & Breakfast, wine tastings, special events, facility for private parties, major credit cards accepted.
Contact: 609-536-2092 or www.jessiecreekwinery.com
Jennifer Malme is a full-time mother, sometime substitute teacher, avid locavore, and enthusiastic supporter of New Jersey wines. Her lifestyle blog, Down-Home South Jersey, explores ways to live simply and eat well in and around Cumberland County. When she is not blogging, she enjoys cooking, touring local wineries, and reading. She has never met a cheese that she doesn’t like, and she especially enjoys finding new, authentic ethnic restaurants in her area. Jennifer lives in Vineland with her husband, teenage son, and very smart Siamese cat.
