Working Dog Winery is located in Robbinsville. With 19 acres under vine (and a total of 110 acres of beautiful property), they make good use of their outdoor and indoor space. Since my last visit, Working Dog Winery has converted a space previously allocated for special events to their primary tasting room. They also now have an enclosed patio that runs the length of the building. This area was previously open air. The views of the vines are unhindered by the changes, while the added ceiling heaters and available fans make this area a comfortable and attractive place to enjoy your wine (and snacks you are invited to bring with you). My wife and I chose to sit out in the enclosed patio area, pictured below.
We enjoyed a bottle of their New Jersey Chardonnay while we nibbled on some Irish cheese and crackers we brought from home and admired their perfectly measured rows of vines. While dormant now, in just a few months they will be adorned with beautiful grapes and crafted into some of the best wines in the state.
Speaking of wine…
My wife and I decided to do a tasting. As usual, she tasted the whites and I tasted the reds (though we always share). I was surprised that they still do a traditional tasting here, though I was impressed with our knowledgeable server. Patrons get to choose any five wines on their tasting menu.
The White Wines
- Traminette 2021-One of the best Traminette’s made in NJ. It presents with the wonderful floral bouquet. It is surprisingly dry, despite the sweet aroma and honeysuckle and apricot on the palate.
- Riesling 2021-Dry, with a refreshing lime, citrusy flavor.
- Pinot Gris 2021-Done in the French style, with a little more body, a softer mouthfeel, and a bit less acidity.
- New Jersey Chardonnay 2020-My favorite in the tasting. This Chardonnay is barrel fermented in new oak. It has a delicious rich mouthfeel and a creamy finish.
- Open Source 2019-The collaborative version, utilizing grapes from all five Co-Op members (Working Dog, Unionville, Beneduce, William Heritage, and Hawk Haven). It has a nice, subtle, citrusy flavor.
The Red Wines
- Equinox Dry Rose 2021-A dry, but very refreshing Rose made from their Chambourcin (90%) and Cab Franc (10%).
- Marechal Foch 2020-Perhaps the only NJ winery that utilizes this hybrid grape (originating in France) as a stand alone varietal. Black cherry notes with good acidity and mild tannins.
- Chambourcin 2020-Dark cherry with a little spice.
- Cabernet Franc 2020-This is their signature red wine. I enjoyed this vintage’s lighter body and color and smooth tannins. I look forward to enjoying the 2019 vintage we took home. 2019 was such a great year for New Jersey wine.
- Merlot 2020– A bit lighter in body this year, but tasty cherries on the palate with a smooth finish.
My Take Home
Pictured from left to right below: Traminette 2021, Equinox Dry Rose 2021, Cabernet Franc 2019, Cabernet Franc 2020, and New Jersey Chardonnay 2020.
We really enjoyed our visit to this wonderful winery. The grounds are beautiful, the wine is excellent, and the staff are all very friendly and welcoming. We look forward to returning in the spring.
Cheers!
My Featured NJ Wine of the Week
I’m double dipping this week with Working Dog Winery 2020 Chardonnay. There’s only so much wine I can drink in a week and this one definitely is deserving of the honor. It is described above.
Buy a Gift for Yourself This Year
Download a copy of my ebook, New Jersey Uncorked: A Snob-Free Taste of NJ Wine. It’s my guide to New Jersey Wineries and Wine. Get it for ONLY $7.99 using the coupon code Winter2022. You can ONLY get the ebook at Apple’s Ibook app. Not at Amazon/Kindle!
Coming Attractions
- My top 12 NJ Wines of the Year
- My 2022 NJ Wine Highlights
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