How we view things:
"The dressing of vines is never finished…admire a spacious vineyard
if you like, but farm a small one..." Virgil
Small
The ancient Roman poet was wise. A limited size allows us to do a number of things. It lets us to pay greater
attention to the details in our vineyard - an important factor to assure quality. But, this closer attention also
creates an intimacy with our land & climate that pays greater dividends. It not only permits us to be proper
stewards of our land, but also conveys knowledge ofits quirks, characteristics and even its limitations.
Understanding these things is important for the production of well balanced, flavorful grapes and ultimately
good wine that hopefully reflects the character of where it is grown.
Affordable
Being small and locally oriented means nothing if the products that come from those efforts cannot be
enjoyed. Wine can sometimes be seen as an elite product and its cost often has something to do with that
perception. We think wine should be a beverage that is enjoyed in moderation by all on a regular basis. In
order for that to happen it must be available to everyone. At the same time, affordable wine should be well
made. We don't believe that affordability and quality are mutually exclusive. We hope our grapes and the
wines made from them prove this to be true.
Local
We also strongly believe in and support local agriculture. It has traditionally been the backbone of superior
and distinct products, and since wine is "grown", it is no different. For centuries, European wines, just like
other agricultural products, have reflected the local characteristics of the community in which they are grown
and made - its soil, climate, traditions, culture & people. For over 100 years Vineland has been a critical
component in the distinct local agriculture of the Garden State, producing a variety of fruits and
vegetables for local and regional consumption. (Ask any long time resident of Vineland about the
abundance of local produce to be found here in the growing season!) We hope that eventually we are able
to accomplish the same local connection here too with our grapes and the wine made from them and we will
strive to understand what it takes to do that. We urge you to support local agriculture too. Go to our
"Links" page to find some ways to do that.