Saddlehill isn't just a winery; it's a thriving haven built on preserving a historic farm and New Jersey's agricultural heritage. We're proud to be permanently preserved, meaning our land is protected from development and will forever be used for agricultural purposes. Though it might appear to be a public space, Saddlehill remains privately owned. Saddlehill is a vibrant farm dedicated to agriculture and community. Our commitment to preservation allows us to focus on what we do best: supporting New Jersey's agricultural heritage and fostering a sense of community.
Since acquiring the Stafford Farm in 2021, the Saddlehill team and I have transformed it into a haven offering more than delicious, award-winning wines. Our vineyards, overseen by the talented winemaker Peter Szerdahelyi, cultivate the premium grapes that become our celebrated vintages. But Saddlehill's bounty extends beyond grapes.
Executive Chef Daniel Stern leads our farm-to-table experience, featuring fresh ingredients many of which are grown right on our property. Beautiful flower gardens bloom throughout the grounds, delighting not only our guests but also the local community and passersby.
Our commitment goes beyond land preservation. We're passionate about supporting New Jersey's rich agricultural heritage. By allowing visitors to experience a working farm firsthand, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for agriculture which we hope translates into a strong sense of community. Saddlehill Winery strives to be a welcoming destination for all backgrounds, offering a unique and enjoyable experience whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just discovering the world of wine.
Family-Friendly Changes: We recently updated our policy regarding families with young children. Based on your feedback, families with children under 12 are now welcome on our main lawn area alongside guests of all ages. This creates a more inclusive environment while still maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Continuous Improvement: We appreciate your feedback on the limited menu and QR code ordering system on the lawn. Effective July 12th, we've implemented full table service on the lawn areas, offering the same menu as the indoor and patio areas.
Exciting New Events and Happy Hour! We're excited to announce new classes and events at Saddlehill, along with a Happy Hour launching Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3-5pm! Enjoy half-priced sangria pitchers, discounted glasses of wine, and other delicious food specials.
Introducing Joe Brown, Director of Hospitality: On July 27th, Joe Brown joins our team as Director of Hospitality! Joe brings a wealth of experience and passion to this role, promising to be a valuable asset. Joe's impressive 47-year career in hospitality is built on culinary excellence and entrepreneurial success. Many of you might recognize him from the local scene, as he previously owned and operated the well-known Mélange Cafe. His expertise encompasses all aspects of the business, from fostering exceptional customer service and staff development to strategic management and ensuring smooth operations.
Joe's journey began with a love for creating memorable dining experiences, a passion that extends beyond the kitchen. Working alongside Executive Chef Dan, Joe will focus on optimizing the front-of-house experience, further elevating our commitment to hospitality excellence. This includes fostering a strong team environment and ensuring seamless collaboration between back-of-house and front-of-house operations. Joe's ability to adapt to evolving trends and set new standards throughout his career, along with his dedication to quality and innovation, are sure to benefit Saddlehill Winery.
We look forward to welcoming you and continuing to strive to make Saddlehill one of the country's best wine and culinary destinations!
Cheers,