The First State’s agriculture provides a wealth of resources including grapes grown for winemaking. Get a taste at these wineries in Southern Delaware that provide patrons the chance to relax with a glass of wine (or two) and a vineyard view.
Harvest Ridge Winery and Rebel Seed Cidery
Marydel
You’ll feel right at home at this family-owned winery and cidery. Harvest Ridge — named after the original farm the vines are grown on today — began in 2011 with chardonnay, viognier, malbec and merlot grapes. The winery opened its doors to the public in 2013. Step into the tasting room to try a specific varietal or a few with a wine flight.
Nassau Valley Vineyards
Lewes
Take a short drive from the beach to visit the First State’s original commercial wine vineyard. Founded in 1987 by the Raley family, this vineyard produces chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and merlot grapes. Guests will also taste other regionally grown fruit in Nassau Valley’s 14 wines. Visit the vineyards and winery for a tour and tasting. Plus, check out the farmers market hosted on Sundays from mid-May to mid-October.
Pizzadili Vineyard & Winery
Felton
The Pizzadili brothers, Pete and Tony, began this vineyard to continue their father’s passion of winemaking. Today, the vines produce 12 grape varieties that are the source of all the winery’s vinos. Patrons can find the perfect wine for their preferred flavor palate including Delaware, a sweet white dessert wine, and Brothers’ Table Wine, a dry red wine.
Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery
Frankford
This 26-acre vineyard began planting in 2016 and hasn’t looked back. Visit the cozy tasting room to sip on varietals including malbec, vermentino, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Guests can bring their own bites to enjoy alongside the vinos or check out the food trucks that visit the property on weekends and at special events. Salted Vines also provides its own charcuterie options for purchase.
Twin Branch Winery
Milton
Located between the beaches and small towns, this vineyard offers a secluded spot for wine tastings. Twin Branch’s first vines were planted in 2013. The vineyard sits six feet above the water table, providing a peak environment for grape growing. The two streams that border the property give the vineyard its namesake. The farmhouse welcomes guests to bring charcuterie boards to complement their wine of choice on the patio or along the pond. Twin Branch offers multiple labels including merlot, chardonnay and rosé.
