Photo: David Michael Howarth

New Jersey has earned respect and recognition for its picture-perfect vineyards and for exceptional wines that regularly rack up awards in international taste tests. 

Lucky for us, our local wineries – just a short drive away – offer plenty of special events and activities.   

Raise a glass to these wonderful ways we all can enjoy the New Jersey wine scene.

1.  Get the app. Start the tour.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association’s app offers self-guided tours with trails that cluster wineries located within a short drive of each other. For example, the Two Bridges Wine Trail covers wineries between the Delaware Memorial and Commodore Barry Bridges, spotlighting 10 wineries, including Auburn Road and Heritage.

2.  Sip by the fire 

Many wineries have bonfires or outdoor fireplaces where you can enjoy your wine by the warm glow beneath the star-lit sky. Grab your sweater and head to Willow Creek Winery in West Cape May for their next “Fire Pit Friday” on Sept. 5 & 26 from 4 to 8 pm.

3.  Run the vineyards 

Several wineries in the state host runs at various times throughout the year. (You could do a different vineyard run each month.) On Sept. 14, White Horse Winery in Hammonton will host a 5k/10k and 1-mile walk to support the HEADstrong Foundation. On Oct. 25, DiBella Winery in Swedesboro will host a Halloween 5K. (And of course, participants over 21 get a comp glass of wine.)

4.  Vinyasa on the vines 

Bring a yoga mat and a bottle of water to enjoy a memorable yoga experience in the vineyards followed by a relaxing savasana and maybe a glass of wine. At Saddlehill in Voorhees, practice your poses among the alpacas on Sept. 21 at 9 am, and then enjoy brunch immediately after class. On Sunday, Sept. 7, the 1-hour vinyasa flow begins at 11 am at Bellview Winery in Landisville. Programs are beginner friendly and suitable for yogis of all levels.