It had been far too long since my last visit to Working Dog Winery in Robbinsville Township. Though I have been able to taste their wines in the interim at the Winemakers Co-Op events, I love the ambience of this winery-even in winter. They’re not just pet-friendly, they are bring your own food-friendly. On this current visit my wife and I had neglected to bring food along. We had just tried to squeeze too much in on the same day. Fortunately, our server at Working Dog suggested a great local restaurant in Hightstown. More on that find later.
The vineyard at Working Dog Winery opened to the public in 2003. It was originally named Silver Decoy Winery, but the name was changed in 2013. The winery is a wonderful place to visit. Bring Fido, pack a lunch or snack to enjoy with their excellent wines in a beautiful setting.
As I alluded to above, Working Dog Winery is a member of the Winemakers Co-Op, a group of five of the best wineries in the state. They hold informative and entertaining wine tasting events twice a year-once in the spring and once in the fall. Speaking of wine…
I tasted the following 9 wines (including sipping my wife’s picks):
- Pinot Grigio 2018-a light white with tropical fruit notes.
- Chardonnay 2018-easy drinking Chard fermented in Stainless Steel, with apple notes.
- Chardonnay Oak 2017-I loved the oaked version, with its smooth, rich, mouthfeel and a subtle buttery note.
- Chambourcin-a light, spicy version of this NJ staple.
- Marechal Foch 2017-While Im not generally a fan of this varietal, this one was quite good.
- Sangiovese-A terrific, light Sangiovese
- Pointer 2016-A tasty red blend
- Merlot 2016-Always one of my favorites here. This 2016 received 90 points from James Suckling.
- Cabernet Franc 2016-Everyone’s perennial favorite here. Classic Cab Franc that is definitely one of the best in the state-and beyond.
My only disappointment was that they were sold out of their wonderful Syrah. But we happily took home our four favorites.
My takeaways are pictured below from left to right: Chardonnay Oak, Sangiovese, Merlot and Cab Franc. It should be noted that their Cab Franc and Chardonnay were the first vines planted here.
The recommendation for lunch I mentioned above was Fernando’s Grille in Hightstown. My wife and I couldn’t have been happier with this find. Our mushroom bisque was a great starter. My vegetable wrap and my wife’s salad (topped with salmon) were even better. All for under $30! No wine, but we had just come from two winery tastings, so just as well.
I look forward to returning to Working Dog Winery in warmer weather, when the gorgeous surroundings are all in full bloom and the vines are weighed down with plump ripe grapes.
Cheers!
Still haven’t gotten a copy of New Jersey Uncorked: A Snob-Free Taste of NJ Wine? Get your e-book instantly at Apple’s iBook store. Interested in a signed copy of the paperback? Still a few left. Stay tuned on this site for details.
Coming Attractions
- Wine Competitions
- Pairing my NJ wines with a local restaurant
- Old York Cellars Winter 2020
