Nestled in the heart of Lambertville, New Jersey, Angelico Winery stands as a testament to a harmonious blend of diverse heritages, deep-rooted passion, and unwavering dedication to winemaking. The story of Angelico Winery is as rich and intriguing as the wines produced there, encapsulating a journey that spans continents and generations.
A Dream Rooted in Heritage
The inception of Angelico Winery is intertwined with the personal histories of its founders, Otto and Lily Angelico. Otto, born and raised in Sicily, carries a legacy of winemaking that stretches back five generations. His family owned vineyards that initially operated commercially but later shifted to producing wine primarily for family enjoyment. Otto’s love for winemaking was ingrained in him from a young age, highlighted by the unique gift he received on his 18th birthday: a full-sized wine barrel, which symbolized his connection to the craft.
Lily, originally from China, brings her own rich cultural background to the table. Together, she and Otto spent years envisioning and searching for the perfect location to bring their dream winery to life. After extensive exploration, they found their haven in New Jersey, a state that has seen significant growth in the quality and quantity of its wine production.
Italian Influence and Varietals
Angelico Winery’s offerings are deeply influenced by Otto’s Sicilian roots. The vineyard, spanning three acres, features seven different grape varieties, including Italian favorites Barbera, Sangiovese, and Pinot Grigio. “We are biased toward Italian varieties,” Lily admits with a smile. “We are in the experimental stage to find out what grows well here. When we are ready to expand, we will know exactly what we can do. ”The experimental phase continues, aiming to identify which varietals thrive best in the Central Jersey terroir.”
Crafting Unique Wine Profiles
Lily and Otto cater to both dry and sweet wine enthusiasts, balancing their offerings to appeal to a wide range of palates. “Our dry wines are not so dry that they bite your throat, and our sweet wines are not too sweet either,” Lily explains. Lily’s journey from a novice to a dry wine aficionado allows her to connect with visitors and guide them through new taste experiences.
“Our guests often find wines they never thought they would like,” Lily shares. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see someone leave with a bottle they hadn’t considered before.”
Art and Community: A Perfect Pairing
The winery’s tasting room doubles as a gallery for local artists, thanks to a collaboration with Artsbridge, a local artist association. Artsbridge is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the Delaware Valley. It includes fine artists, writers, actors, musicians, and filmmakers and is dedicated to improving the public understanding of the arts.
The tasting room features pieces from local artists, providing a platform for them to reach new audiences. This collaboration began serendipitously when Lily met the organization’s curator during a Pilates event at the winery.
“I have a heart for artists and musicians,” Lily says. “Our space is a show window for them, and we hope to bring more customers for their art.”
Engaging Events and Personal Touches
Angelico Winery offers a variety of events that foster a sense of community and connection. From live music and food truck events to arts-and-crafts sessions, there is always something happening at the winery. Despite their small venue, Otto and Lily prioritize personal interactions with their guests, ensuring everyone feels valued and welcomed.
“We make a conscious effort to talk to every guest,” Lily emphasizes. “Building personal connections is very important to us.”
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Family Legacy
With over 3,000 vines, Angelico Winery is poised for growth. The family is considering expanding their production facilities and vineyard space to accommodate their growing operations. One of their sons, inspired by the family business, is pursuing a degree in viticulture, promising a bright future for the winery. “He decided to switch from architecture to winemaking,” Lily proudly shares, highlighting the family’s ongoing commitment to the craft.
Visit Angelico Winery
A visit to Angelico Winery is more than a wine tasting. It’s an immersion into a rich tapestry of heritage, passion, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or new to the world of wine, Angelico Winery offers a unique and welcoming experience that feels like home.
Angelico Winery
20 Hamp Road
Lambertville, NJ
732-947-4262
