time to unwined

I had never been to a winery before and wasn’t sure what to really expect. Friends of mine had been to Beneduce Vineyards in Pittstown, NJ and said they had a great time so I thought paying a visit with a group of girlfriends would be the best way to cap off my birthday week.

The forty minute trip was worth it just to be able to take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds the vineyard estate. All around are rolling hills and trees with leaves starting to turn adding a variety of colors to a beautiful canvas. As you drive along the rocky road to the parking lot, you take in the large piece of land that is covered with perfectly aligned grape vines. 

After parking, five of my friends and I walked into the tasting room, a large room with many different wooden barrels and large tables with spit buckets, breadsticks, menus, and miniature vases of autumn colored flowers.

 

As soon as we walked into the tasting room, we were helped by one of the friendly staff members. We were told that we could either choose between a regular wine tasting which consisted of five different wines for $5 (what a bargain) or $10 for wine and cheese pairings tasting. Since we had brought so much food for later in the evening, we decided to just go for the wine. Think about that for a second though. A beautiful scenery, delicious cheese, decadent wines, good conversations all for less than a regular movie ticket. Just another reason to get outside and do something different!

After choosing our experience, our server told us that the traditional tasting is from dry to sweet, white to red. So, we started with the Chardonnay.

The chardonnay had a dry, creamy, and surprisingly buttery taste. Did you know that “dry” actually means that there is no sugar in this wine? You may have, but I did not and so I came to the conclusion that this was actually healthy for you.

The next wine was the Dry Riesling. A few of my friends are riesling connoisseurs and they truly enjoyed this wine. This wine is slightly sweeter than the Chardonnay with hints of lemon zest, and other spices.

I was very interested in learning about the red wines. Although I do not know much about any sort of wine, I have usually chosen white over red. I think this place might have changed my opinion, at least for the fall and winter months.

The first red wine we tasted was the Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec. The wine consisted of two different grapes that are blended together. The wine was heavy, which is why I say it would be good for winter but also dry. We learned how to properly taste red wine at this point. Usually, one is supposed to swirl the wine around the glass and look at the “legs” which are the drops of wine that stick to the glass when you spin it. It is said that the longer the legs, the better the wine. Then, when drinking the wine, you are supposed to stick your nose into the glass and take short sniffs of the wine rather than one long smell. Finally, you can taste the wine. Boy, did it taste good-flavors of black plum and blackberry as well as an oak wood and dark roast coffee flavor.

Even when the wine glasses weren’t filled, we all still had a great time. Everyone had their phones out ready and waiting to catch the perfect moment.

After now tasting three different wines, the group really wanted something to crunch and much on. Luckily for us, there were breadsticks to be had.

The next wine is said to be the “sexiest wine” because of its very long legs. For that reason, the next red wine is called “Centerfold” which is a Pinot Noir. The smell of black cherry, clove, and french vanilla fill your nose. After taking a sip, it actually makes you feel like your taste buds are dancing. 

Last, but absolutely not least, was the majority favorite- “Shotgun Red”. This wine was made of 2.2% sugar so it was much sweeter than the others we had been trying. It is made from three different estate grown grapes. Although it is a red wine, it did have a lighter taste with flavors of strawberry and raspberry. 

After picking each of our favorites and buying a bottle (or two), it was time to head outside for some group therapy.  Looking out into the vineyard was a small patio and grass field with a bonfire, tables, and a stage for music. Every Saturday they have this “group therapy” where people reserve a table, bring their own food, and make fun memories.

I honestly had a fabulous birthday and could not have asked for a better way to cap off the week. Everyone had so much fun and are looking forward to go back in the future. If this past week are any indication of how the year is going to be, I cannot wait to see what’s ahead.

I definitely recommend taking a chance to unwined from your hectic life-you absolutely deserve it!

For more information visit: Beneduce Vineyards