Delaware may not be the first place you think of for wine tours, but it’s home to several charming wineries. These hidden gems offer a unique experience for wine lovers. You can explore vineyards, taste local wines, and enjoy scenic views of the countryside.
Wine tours in Delaware let you discover the state’s growing wine industry while supporting local businesses. From small family-run operations to larger vineyards, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find a variety of wines to suit different tastes, including reds, whites, and fruit wines. Many wineries also offer tours where you can learn about the winemaking process and the history of Delaware’s wine industry.
1) Nassau Valley Vineyards Tour
Nassau Valley Vineyards offers a unique wine experience in Delaware. You can visit this award-winning winery just a few miles from the bustling beach resorts.
When you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a peaceful setting. The vineyard is nestled among verdant fields on a quiet country road.
You can take a free self-guided tour of the winery. This lets you learn about wine history and production at your own pace.
For a more in-depth experience, you can book a guided tour. These are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays by appointment. The cost is $10 and includes an etched crystal tasting glass.
After your tour, enjoy a wine tasting for $5 per person. You’ll get to sample some of the reds and whites that have won awards all over the world.
Nassau Valley Vineyards is open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s a perfect stop during your Delaware beach vacation.
2) Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery Experience
Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery offers a unique wine tasting experience in Delaware. You can visit this beautiful winery any day of the week to enjoy their signature wine tastings.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the natural beauty of the Eastern Shore. The winery’s serene setting provides the perfect backdrop for your wine adventure.
Your tasting experience will be led by a knowledgeable wine tender in an intimate group setting. You’ll have the chance to sample a variety of wines and learn about their unique characteristics.
For just $12, you can enjoy a flight of four two-ounce wine samples. This is a great way to discover your new favorite Salted Vines wine.
After your tasting, you can relax outside with a full bottle of wine. The winery often features local entertainment, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere.
Salted Vines is open daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. You can visit Sunday through Thursday from 12 pm to 6 pm, Fridays from 12 pm to 8 pm, and Saturdays from 11 am to 7 pm.
3) Harvest Ridge Winery Tour
You’ll find a unique experience at Harvest Ridge Winery in Marydel, Delaware. This family-run winery sits right on the Mason-Dixon line, with part of the property in Maryland and part in Delaware.
During your visit, you can take a daily tour of the winery. You’ll learn about the winemaking process and see the production facilities. The tour guides are knowledgeable and happy to answer your questions.
After the tour, head to the tasting room. Here, you can sample a variety of award-winning wines. The winery has earned recognition at the Tasters Guild International Competition.
Don’t miss trying their new venture – Rebel Seed Cidery. It’s Delaware’s first cidery, offering a refreshing change from wine.
The winery is open daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. You can visit from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM on these days.
Harvest Ridge also hosts events throughout the year. From small business meetings to large weddings, their event space can accommodate various gatherings.
4) Painted Stave Distilling Visit
Painted Stave Distilling offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts in Delaware. You can visit their distillery in Smyrna for tours and tastings.
The distillery is housed in a former 1940s movie theater, adding charm to your visit. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere in their cocktail garden where you can relax and enjoy their spirits.
Painted Stave crafts premium spirits in small batches using regional ingredients. They use these to create thoughtful and inventive cocktails designed to delight your taste buds.
Tours and tastings are available Thursday through Sunday. You can sample their products and learn about the distilling process.
The distillery also hosts special events. These include pairings like donuts & cocktails and bread & cocktails, offering you unique tasting experiences.
If you prefer to enjoy their drinks at home, Painted Stave offers cocktails to-go. This allows you to savor their creations in the comfort of your own space.
5) Dogfish Head Craft Brewery Tour
You can explore the world of craft beer at Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton, Delaware. Tours are available for $20 per person and include a tasting session.
The tour gives you an inside look at the brewing process. You’ll see the equipment and learn how Dogfish Head makes its unique beers. Limited to 10 people, the tour ensures a personal experience.
After the tour, you can sample different Dogfish Head beers. You’ll get to keep a logo tasting glass as a souvenir. It’s a great way to try new flavors and find your favorites.
Tours happen on Mondays and Fridays at 3 P.M. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes for safety. The tour is for adults 21 and older only.
If you’re hungry, visit the Brewings & Eats restaurant in Rehoboth Beach. You can enjoy fresh beer, oysters, and pub food there. They offer indoor and outdoor seating options.
History of Wine Tours in Delaware
Wine tours in Delaware have grown from humble beginnings to become a popular attraction. They’ve boosted local tourism and supported the state’s wine industry.
Origins and Growth
Delaware’s wine tour history began in the late 1980s. The first winery in the state, Nassau Valley Vineyards, opened in 1993. This kicked off wine tourism in Delaware.
Early tours were small and informal. You might have visited just one or two vineyards in a day.
As more wineries popped up, organized tours started. Tour companies began offering trips to multiple vineyards. They provided transport and guided experiences.
Today’s wine tours are more diverse. You can join group tours or plan private visits. Some tours include food pairings or vineyard walks.
Impact on Local Economy
Wine tours have become a key part of Delaware’s tourism sector. They bring visitors to rural areas and boost local businesses.
Wineries create jobs in farming, production, and hospitality. Tour companies employ drivers and guides.
Nearby restaurants and hotels benefit from wine tourists. Many visitors stay overnight, extending their economic impact.
Wine tours help promote Delaware’s agricultural products. They showcase local grapes and other crops used in winemaking.
The tours also support Delaware’s image as a food and drink destination. This attracts more tourists to the state overall.
Viticulture in Delaware
Delaware’s wine industry is growing, with unique conditions shaping its viticulture. The state’s climate and soil play a key role in grape production, while certain varieties thrive in this Mid-Atlantic region.
Unique Climate and Soil
Delaware’s climate offers challenges and benefits for grape growing. You’ll find a mix of humid subtropical and continental climates here. This creates long, warm summers and mild winters.
The state’s location near the Atlantic Ocean moderates temperatures. This helps protect vines from extreme cold.
Delaware’s soil varies across regions. In many areas, you’ll encounter well-drained sandy loam. This soil type is ideal for grapevines.
The coastal areas have sandy soils. These warm up quickly in spring, promoting early growth. Inland, you’ll find more clay-based soils. These retain water better, helping vines during dry spells.
Popular Grape Varieties
Delaware vineyards grow a range of grape varieties. Both European (Vitis vinifera) and American hybrid grapes do well here.
Popular red varieties include:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Chambourcin
For white wines, you’ll often see:
- Chardonnay
- Vidal Blanc
- Traminette
Chambourcin, a French-American hybrid, is particularly successful. It’s known for its disease resistance and ability to handle Delaware’s humidity.
Nassau Valley Vineyards, Delaware’s oldest winery, grows many of these varieties. You can visit to see these grapes firsthand and taste the resulting wines.
Some vineyards are experimenting with lesser-known varieties. This includes grapes like Albariño and Petit Verdot. These trials may shape the future of Delaware wine.
