Cape May Craft Breweries Are Brewing Up Big Success

Issue #336

May 03, 2025

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In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather 

🍻Cape May Craft Breweries Are Brewing Up Big Success

‍🏸Cape May’s First Indoor Sports Dome Faces Opening Setback Amid Land Talks

🌿 Cape May Court House Scores New Vegan Hotspot as Greens and Grains Expands

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: Shop Local

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 May 3

OUR NEW EVENT SUBMISSION FORM

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Hamilton Wilde in the vineyard

Wines, Whips, and Weddings: Inside the Allure of Willow Creek Winery

 Nestled in the heart of Cape May, Willow Creek Winery has transformed from a forgotten lima bean farm into a flourishing vineyard and event destination. Founded by the Wilde family, the winery began its journey in 2004 with the first vine plantings. After years of growth and development, it opened to the public in December 2012, officially celebrating with a grand opening the following Fourth of July.

Though it began modestly, the winery has steadily expanded its offerings, all while staying true to its original vision of community connection. One of its earliest hits was a seasonal sangria, served in collectible refillable growlers that locals return for year after year. With a wide selection of wines, particularly standout whites inspired by the  European Bordeaux’s—the winery has earned a reputation for pleasing every palate, from dry wine lovers to sweet wine fans.

For those looking for something beyond the bottle, Willow Creek has also become known for its inventive Willow Whip Floats. This non-dairy fruit soft-serve is blended with wine and served floating atop sangria, offering a whimsical twist on a wine tasting.

The culinary offerings are just as appealing. Casual yet elevated, the menu includes crowd-pleasers like the chef’s truffle chips, which have become a must-try for guests. Events are another major draw. Regular happenings like Fire Pit Fridays and seasonal ‘Sip and Shops’ featuring local vendors are popular around the Holidays.  

Several times a year, the venue hosts big festival gatherings, the most recent one was for Earth Day. Another large occasion was a St Patrick's Day celebration that was more than just Guinness. The day also focused on the culture, featuring traditional Irish pipe brigades and Irish dancers, many of whom competed in Belfast. Looking ahead, the winery has a full calendar of events, including an elaborate Mother’s Day brunch featuring everything from seafood to prime rib. Weddings are a major part of their business as well, with events ranging from intimate elopements to 350-guest receptions. More plans are in the works for the upcoming season.

Spanning 50 acres on the Cape May island and an additional 75-acre property in North Cape May, Willow Creek Winery remains the only winery on the island, offering guests an atmosphere that feels miles away from New Jersey’s typical landscape. With lush views, vibrant flowers, and the beach just down the road, it’s a true escape with a local heart.

If you get a chance to visit, sample a flight of wine or a growler of sangria while sitting on the patio next to the vineyard. Be sure to say hello to Hamilton Wilde and Tamara Turse, both of whom contributed to this article. 


Have a Merchant You Want to see Featured?

Cape May Craft Breweries Are Brewing Up Big Success

 

Cape May County’s craft beer scene has seen explosive growth, with several award-winning breweries now calling the area home. With a rich variety of offerings and unique tasting rooms, Cape May is positioning itself as the Craft Drinks Capital of New Jersey. For longtime locals, the transformation is especially striking. Here's a closer look at a few standout breweries: 

 Gusto Brewing Company
Located near the site of the old Bayshore 8 Theater on the road to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, Gusto Brewing Company opened its doors with help from Zack and Adrianna Pashley and head brewer Dan Patela. In just a few years, Gusto has become a favorite among locals for its creative small-batch beers and lively tasting room atmosphere. Their motto, "Something Small + Something Weird," captures their approach to brewing unique and inventive offerings. 

 Cold Spring Brewery
 Set in an 1804 English-style barn at Historic Cold Spring Village, Cold Spring Brewery stands out as New Jersey’s first nonprofit brewery. Though the village itself operates seasonally, the brewery remains open year-round. Visitors experience a blend of historic charm and modern craft brewing, with an impressive variety of beers available in a welcoming, spacious tasting room. 

 Cape May Brewing Company
Founded in 2011, Cape May Brewing Company remains a major name in South Jersey’s craft beer scene. Conveniently located off Breakwater Road in Lower Township, the brewery is within easy reach of both Cape May and Wildwood. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a versatile spot year-round, perfect for enjoying a flight of beers under the summer sun or inside during cooler months.

 

Cape May’s First Indoor Sports Dome Faces Opening Setback Amid Land Talks

 A planned 80,000-square-foot sports dome at Cape May County Airport in Lower Township has been delayed until at least late 2025 due to ongoing lease negotiations. The delay is tied to the county’s potential takeover of the airport from the Delaware River Bay Authority. While the original plan called for a 2024 opening, revised lease terms could extend the facility's use for up to 40 years. Final approvals are still pending from the DRBA, the county, and Lower Township.

Cape May Court House Scores New Vegan Hotspot as Greens and Grains Expands

G&G Mays Landing

 

 Greens and Grains, a popular plant-based restaurant in South Jersey, is opening three new locations in Cherry Hill, Stone Harbor, and Cape May Court House. Known for its vibrant, flavor-packed offerings, Greens and Grains has cultivated a strong following among those seeking healthy, plant-based meals without sacrificing taste. The upcoming Cape May Court House location will be conveniently situated in the Acme shopping center on Court House South Dennis Road, directly next to Starbucks—a prime spot for locals and summer visitors alike.

Answer to the May 2nd Trivia Question

What is Cape May, New Jersey, best known for?

A) Its role in the Revolutionary War
B) Being the oldest seaside resort in the United States
C) Hosting the largest bird migration event in North America
D) Being home to the United States' first lighthouse

Answer: B) Being the oldest seaside resort in the United States​

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