Plagido’s Winery is located in Hammonton. Like many other wineries in South Jersey, it is relatively small, but they make good use of their space, with a larger outdoor space more recently added. With the Pandemic seeming to be a long-term dark cloud over us, the outdoor space is both a wise investment by winery owners, and an appreciated development for those of us who are still playing things safe. The increased outdoor space (with several tables on the patio and at least a half dozen picnic tables beyond the patio) is also conducive for Plagido’s increased musical and entertainment offerings. Since opening their doors in 2007, this winery has won New Jersey Winery of the Year honors twice (2016 and 2017).
Plagido’s Winery is offering an expanded menu of foods to enjoy with your wine-from pizza to hummus and pita or Naan, to go along with a variety of charcuterie. We had eaten our lunch before arriving, so we were not hungry, but some fine options await our return. My wife and I were content to just soak in the sunshine and absorb the beauty of nature in the vineyard. The vineyards, already stripped of their bounty, will soon be missing their autumnal color, as the last of the leaves fall. We will content ourselves with the knowledge that we will soon be enjoying a new vintage of wines across the state. It seems appropriate that we will shortly be celebrating Thanksgiving, for nature’s bounty and those things in our lives that give us happiness.
We started out with two flights, but added another, wanting to linger a little longer (and try a few more wines).
Flight #1
- Chardonnay-The 2019 Chardonnay is oaked, while retaining tasty citrus notes and a lively acidity.
- Vino de Casa-A decent dry table red.
- Chambourcin-Good version of this iconic hybrid, with nice cherry notes.
Flight #2
- Petit Verdot-Not as full-bodied as some; a hint of cherry and chocolate on the palate.
- Coeur d’Est-A nice blend of Chambourcin, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Coeur d’Est means “Heart of the East.” Many wineries in the Outer Coastal Plain produce this local ode to Bordeaux-style blends.
- Cabernet Sauvignon-Very good Cab; rich and smooth; my favorite in the tasting.
Flight #3
- Reverance-An interesting white wine made from the Marquis grape, with a hint of pineapple and citrus. I believe this is the only example of the single varietal use of the Marquis grape in New Jersey.
- Cabernet Merlot Blend- a smooth blend with a bit of cherry and vanilla.
- Homestead-Sweet red desert wine with cherries and caramel notes and vanilla on the finish (17% ABV).
My wife and I really enjoyed our flights and our view of the vineyards in the glow of the afternoon sun. Our takeaway is pictured below (2019 Chardonnay).
Cheers!
Coming Attractions
- Coda Rossa Winery in Franklinville
- NJ Featured Wine of the Week (a new weekly feature)-In addition to my posts on wineries, breweries, and distilleries, I will highlight a bottle from the Garden State that I enjoyed during the week.
New Jersey Uncorked: A Snob-Free Taste of NJ Wine
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