Old York Cellars is right in the middle of one of New Jersey’s hotbeds for wineries. It is located in Ringoes, a central New Jersey town that is also the home of Unionville Vineyards. It is just a short drive from several other top-notch wineries. But whether you do a wine trail in the area or just want to see what Old York Cellars has to offer, it’s definitely worth the drive. I love the area, with its charming painted cows on the roadside and real-life Belted Galloways (with bands of black and white, instead of the more common spots). Ringoes is also a hop, skip and a jump from two meccas of antiques, Lambertville and New Hope.
Once you arrive on the OYC grounds you are immediately immersed in a bucolic setting, with distant views of the Sourland Mountain. Yes, mountain views in New Jersey! On a nice day, their patio and sloping greens provide an inviting place to sit and soak in a bit of nature’s bounty. If you are less interested in the views or prefer to pair your wine tasting with some shopping, Old York Cellars has two satellite tasting rooms in two nearby malls (Quaker Bridge Mall and Bridgewater Mall). So you busy shoppers can take a delightful break, enjoy a tasty snack or meal and a glass (or bottle) of wine.
Speaking of wine…
Old York Cellars offers your choice of six wines for $10. With my six choices (coupled with sips of my wife’s choices) I was able to taste the following wines:
- Pinot Gris-done in the French style with light acidity and a crisp finish.
- Chardonnay-an unoaked Chard highlighting the fruit, with nice acidity.
- Reserve Chardonnay-smooth oak-aged Chard with hints of butterscotch and vanilla.
- Malbec-One of my favorite reds here for a few years; one of the few not utilizing their estate-grown grapes.
- What Exit Red-A terrific blend of Zinfandel, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon; excellent value at $18.
- Syrah-a wonderful medium-bodied version that won a Silver Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
- Riesling-an off-dry version with just a bit of sweetness, that won a Gold Medal and a score of 91 at the Eastern International Competition; a tasty Riesling.
- Vintner’s White-Not usually available for non-members, a blend of Pinot Gris, Ceyval and Chardonnay.
- Vintner’s Red-Like the Vintner’s White, not usually available for non-members. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Sirah, Merlot and Malbec.
My takeaways are pictured above from left to right: Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 Reserve (not available for tasting); Chardonnay 2017 Reserve; 2017 Syrah; and What Exit Red.
While not purchased on my most recent trip to Old York Cellars, it seemed only fitting that I enjoyed their Southpaw White Port-style wine from my cellar, later that evening (pictured below):
I had forgotten that this port-style wine was not as super-sweet as many I have tried over the years. While I paired it with chocolate (what does not pair with chocolate), I think it would pair even better with a slice of cheesecake or even enjoyed on its own merits. It is made with their Riesling and Ravat (a white hybrid grape). I should add that my wife already has her crafty eyes and mind set on some ideas for the bottle, once emptied. Scott Gares, the winemaker, also possesses a rare craftsmanship with his hands, wood and glass, making this beautiful bottle, as well the wonderful contents.
Cheers!
Coming Attractions
- Wine Competitions-Breaking down some of the more common and prestigious competitions with some explanations of terms.
- Pairing my NJ wines with a New Jersey Restaurant
- Auburn Road Vineyards Winter 2020
Tried a New Jersey wine lately? Visited a NJ winery recently? Please share your experience here. I would be happy to share your feedback with readers. Like what you read and see here? Subscribe below and get your weekly pour of NJ wine right in your inbox. No spills. No mess.
