Bookends of a wonderful weekend of wine and music. On Saturday, I attended the Appel Wine and Music Festival (first pictured). While I miss the old Appel Music Festivals with big name musicians, etc., I must say they know how to do a wine festival with music, too! Even with a sizable crowd on Saturday, I was able to taste all the wines I wanted without long lines or waits. It was quite hot, so it was a challenge to keep and serve wines at ideal temperatures, but that said, the positives of attending these festivals far outweighs any of the drawbacks. How else can you try wines from so many wineries without driving all over the state?
The wine options were amazing (with 14 wineries represented) and the quality of most very good. Though there were wineries from other states (Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland), I must say New Jersey wines not only outnumbered these, they also outshone these (IMHO). I got to revisit favorites here like Amalthea and Auburn Road, while also tasting wines from a new winery, which is not yet open to the public for tastings at their winery (Villari).
The music was eclectic with a mix of rock, country and blues, mostly originals, but with a few covers, as well. The music provided an upbeat background for the main show – the wine. There were many crafters and good food offered by the food vendors. Overall, I would give Appel Farms high grades for a fun-filled, well-run festival.
On Sunday, the weather forecast was discouraging, at best, but I attended the Wine and Music Festival at Sharrott Winery in Hammonton (pictured above, on right or second). Sharrott has been a local favorite for my wife and me for some time and this was our third (or fourth?) festival here. They also know how to put on a large and successful event (they’ve had a lot of practice). While there were no out of state wineries they were not missed. I was able to revisit old favorites like Plagido and Hawk Haven, as well as try a few wines from Chestnut Run Farm (which only has tastings by appointment). Altogether, there were eight wineries participating.
We saved Sharrott for last, since we know their wines very well. I bought a bottle of their Unoaked Chardonnay (which they had in the cooler) and my wife and I enjoyed that with some cheese and crackers while relaxing and listening to the music. There were food trucks and crafters here, too, but we mostly swirled, sipped, and chilled and grooved to the music.
The music was very good. Both groups were very talented. We had heard Shorty Long and the Jersey Horns before (perhaps last year’s festival?). They are quite talented. For me the highlight was their version of the Allman Brothers’ hit, No Way Out. Great stuff! The other group (Eryn Shewell Group) was also very talented. I must say I really enjoyed myself. Once again Sharrott gets kudos for a festival well-done! I’m so glad the weather cooperated and we were able to enjoy two great festivals!
Were you at either of these festivals? Share your experience with us here.
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