(Lindenwold, NJ) – 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 sits on a little over an acre of land and this year’s harvest has yielded nearly 7,000 pounds of grapes.
“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 of 2024 and was built on the site of the protected forever farm, Stafford Farms, at the corner of Evesham and White Horse roads. The 70-acre plot of land was transformed into a winery, vineyard and flower farm that features 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 wanted to support an expanding industry in Camden County which was the ever-growing wine making sector. Wine growers were creating jobs, creating a product unique to the county and creating community through their small businesses. Based on that objective, former fallow open space, that was once used as a makeshift farm, was repurposed for the vineyard and now in year four, has had record harvest.
“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 the county to plant and maintain the vineyard when it initially opened. The vineyard is comprised of chambourcin, a variety of grape that is one of the world’s most popular hybrid varieties and is noted for its distinctive 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 the NJ Wine Growers Association. “This year’s bountiful harvest is the perfect opportunity to announce the creation of New Jersey Wine Month, which will be celebrated annually throughout November by all Garden State wineries and vineyards. We invite one and all to discover what New Jersey wineries have to offer. Visit us online at NewJerseyWines.com to begin exploring today.”