Part 2 of our winery tour last weekend brought us to Unionville Vineyards. Unionville Vineyards is just 7 minutes away from Old York Cellars. Although it was short, the drive was lovely.
The Atmosphere
As we pulled into the Unionville Vineyards property, we drove over a tiny wooden bridge that led us over a small creek. We drove up the gravel road to a red barn-like building. By the way, this vineyard property used to be the largest peach orchard in the U.S., and later in years it was a dairy farm – little unknown fact about NJ. Who would have thought?
The “wine lab” was on the ground level and the tasting room was on the second level. The stairs are attached to the back of the building. Upon entering the tasting room, there was some merchandise around the front walls. The L shape bar was ahead on the left. It seemed full of people all the way around, but as we approached, the sommelier made room, welcomed us, and invited us right up to the bar. It was nice that he made it even easier for us. Behind us were some small tables and chairs that sat around the wall opposite the bar. To the right of the entrance are stairs that head down to the “wine lab”. The tasting room had an entire wooden look to it with high ceilings supported with wood beams.
We were presented with a list of 21 wines, 3 of which were sold out. Options of tasting include Classics or Premium. We selected the Classics with a choice of 6 wines. Of course, I picked mostly whites and Kristie picked mostly reds, Tom’s selection was a little of both. When I made my original selection, I didn’t mark off the Pinot Grigio, because it usually has too much of a kick to it and because I drank too much of it one night. The gentleman helping us said, “I ought to try it.” I like the input! That’s what I’m looking for. I want to know what’s different. Surprise me. So, I took his word for it.
The Wines
Lafayette Pride 2009 Dry Rose – Don’t know, I skipped it to go for Pinot Grigio instead!
Heritage White Semi-Sweet – I know, I know, I like ‘em sweet. It’s described as featuring citrus and a hint of honey. This was pleasantly sweet, not too much, appropriate for a sweet wine.
Chardonnay 2009 Dry White – This wine certainly tasted buttery as described. If you prefer a buttery rather than oaky Chardonnay, than you would like this one. I found this one slightly sweet and refreshing.
Pinot Grigio 2011 Dry White – Why didn’t I pick you originally? I should have known better. Maybe next year, I will have to go back to all these wineries and try what I didn’t try the first time to see what I missed out on. I’m so glad I listened to the sommelier. This is best Pinot Grigio I have ever had. I usually find that Pinot Grigio goes down with a slight harshness. Not this one, it was perfect, just right. Its description says, “Unionville Pinot Grigio will seize your attention and never release you.” I found it fruity and sweet with a slight mineral quality. Yeeah… I bought a bottle.
Riesling 2010 Semi Sweet White – Described as being different than German or other American Riesling variations, this tasted unique, smooth and light.
Revolutionary Red Soft Dry – 7 Grapes, 3 being white, make up this wine. Tom described it as tasting like a light Merlot. That’s actually what he wrote down on my notes.
Pinot Noir 2008 Dry Red – Complex with fruity, oaky, grapy, and smoky flavors and a peppery finish. Kristie bought this one.
Merlot 2010 – I thought this one tasted heavy. Kristie said it was, “GOOD.” She said it with a lot of emphasis. Although I can’t describe it much more, the red drinker approved.
Outside, Unionville Vineyards has picnic tables if you would like to stay and enjoy a glass or a bottle. We were eager to move on and try the next place, so we didn’t linger. I liked the kindness of the staff and their input on our selections. I appreciate their variety of offerings. With these points, and the best Pinot Grigio I’ve had, this place ranks 4 out of 5 on my list.
If you want to sample any for yourself without traveling, here’s a list of where they’re sold in NJ.
Wine responsibly.
Rating
4 Wine Glasses (Out of 5)
