Garden State Times

The Commissioners Lakeland Vineyard has produced its fourth crop of chambourcin grapes and delivered the harvest to Saddlehill Winery on Wednesday morning. The county’s vineyard, which spans a little over an acre, yielded nearly 7,000 pounds of grapes this year.

“Camden County and the South Jersey region are steadily making a name for themselves in the international wine industry,” said Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. “We have seen exponential growth in agritourism, creating tons of jobs while boosting our local economy and it makes it even more exciting to know that our local wineries, such as Saddlehill, are using locally produced grapes to create delicious, quality wines.”

Saddlehill Winery opened in April 2023 on the site of Stafford Farms at the corner of Evesham and White Horse roads. The 70-acre plot was transformed into a winery, vineyard, and flower farm featuring a 7,000 square-foot tasting room with charcuterie and tapas-style food, tours, a small-scale equine breeding operation, a new 4,320-square-foot barn and seasonal fruit harvests like strawberries and pumpkins.

“Now, with five wineries in the county and the growing industry drawing in more patrons, visitors and tourists we are giving our entire local economy a boost through world class wine making,” Cappelli continued. “This is not only about creating a great product but also underscores the importance of making Camden County a destination in the region when it comes to fine wine.”

Bill Green, principal and owner of Saddlehill Winery discussed his excitement about Saddlehill’s involvement in the booming wine industry.

“We’re thrilled to be part of New Jersey’s wine renaissance,” Green said. “At Saddlehill we’re blending history and innovation on land granted by George Washington himself. Our wines offer a unique taste of the Garden State’s heritage and potential. It’s exciting to see more people discovering the quality and diversity of New Jersey.”

In 2019, the Board of Commissioners aimed to support Camden County's expanding winemaking sector by repurposing former fallow open space for vineyards. This effort has resulted in record harvests over four years.

“This vineyard has been incredibly successful producing bountiful harvests year after year that support the state’s rapidly expanding wine industry,” said Commissioner Jonathan Young liaison to the Camden County Office of Sustainability.

VineTech was hired by Camden County to plant and maintain their vineyard initially planted with chambourcin grapes known for their dark coloring and herbaceous aroma.

“On behalf of the Garden State Wine Growers Association headquartered in Camden County we are pleased to gather and celebrate the New Jersey wine industry and this year’s robust grape harvest season.” said Devon Perry executive director of NJ Wine Growers Association. “This year’s bountiful harvest is the perfect opportunity to announce creation New Jersey Wine Month which will be celebrated annually throughout November by all Garden State wineries vineyards We invite one all discover what New Jersey wineries have offer Visit us online at NewJerseyWines.com to begin exploring today.”