Cape May's newest winery - Jessie Creek Winery

When we were in Cape May, NJ for Memorial Day weekend, we got some wine tasting in at some new wineries.  In fact, Jessie Creek Winery had just opened their door in April, it doesn't get any newer that that.

It all began about five years ago when Dr. Bruce Morrison called his buddy Art Reale in Florida to see if he would like to move up north and purchase a winery in South Jersey.  Art thought it was a great idea and they purchased Jessie Creek Vineyards and began to transform the property into an Inn (Inn At Jessie Creek Bed & Breakfast) and The Jessie Creek Winery.  The winery also has a special event area that can accommodate 120 guests.

After five challenging years and some set-backs due to the state and the pending legislation, they opened their doors April 2012 with five varietals of wine - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chambourcin, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay. (Five seems to be their lucky number)

Jessie Creek has five acres planted and their vines are eight years old. Their barrel program for their Chambourcin is 3 years in French oak and their Chardonnay is aged in Hungarian oak. To date they have produced 1200 cases.

We did taste all their wines.  Believe it or not, I really liked their Chambourcin.  It had a nice berry nose was dry and well balanced.  (I'm not a big fan of hybrid reds)  Their Chardonnay was nice too, well balanced at 12.8% alcohol.

I wish Dr. Morrison and Art the best of luck and look forward to many more visits and tastings with them!