I recently visited the Salem Oak Vineyards, which has been open to the public since 2013. It is located in the small rural town of Pedricktown, with an interesting heritage. One of the more interesting aspects of the area is the Native American history. There are many historic relics that have been found on the site and some of these are displayed throughout the beautiful tasting room. These include Native American tools, arrowheads, and art work. Mandi, one of the owners recently found a very old wooden corkscrew which she let my wife and I take a look at and guess what we thought it might be (no prize for us). We found Mandi and our server to be most gracious and knowledgeable about much more than just their wines. We were even offered a warm piece of raisin bread – fresh out of the oven (delish)!
We were given six wines to taste for six dollars. Their wines are typically named after family members. We chose among their dry whites and reds, which included: Jessica Rose, a Vidal Blanc (a dry white); Olivia, a dry French-style Rose; Mathis, a very interesting and unique dry red made with the dark French-American hybrid Rougeon grapes. We also tried a fabulous Petit Verdot (a full-bodied red), a Pinot Noir, a Merlot, and a Cabernet/ Syrah blend (50-50). Yes, we got to taste a bonus wine, in case you were counting!
Given the quality of the wines we enjoyed and the price (a patriotic 17.76 per bottle – $18 including tax), we brought home bottles of the Mathis, the Petit Verdot, and the Cab/Syrah Blend. We look forward to returning soon and perhaps attending one of their frequent wine-themed social events.
Tried a New Jersey wine recently? Visited a NJ winery lately? Share your experiences here.
Cheers!
