As you drive along Rt. 322 and into the farming town know as Richwood, NJ, you will notice many changes that are widespread in all New Jersey farming communities -- new homes statuesquely standing on the once vast farmland. That is with one exception. There are still plenty of grapevines.

There has been a Heritage family farming the land of Richwood since 1851, mostly fruit orchards -- peaches, apples, plums, nectarines. However, in 2001, Bill and Penni Heritage planted a more commercially successful crop than the fruit trees -- merlot, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and cabernet franc. Today, those with sharp eyes will also notice other types of vines, such as chambourcin and concord, as well as test blocks of petite verdot, pinot gris, sauvignon blanc, malbec, pinot noir, sangiovese, syrah, and grenache. Heritage's grapes and wine are affected to a great extent by the farm's unusual climate. It contributes to the grapes greater concentration of flavor. The winery also produces fruitwine from its own fruit orchards.

Visitors are invited to take advantage of Heritage's wine tasting bar, which is open 7 days a week with complimentary wine tasting, and wine tours which include a guided hayride through the vineyards and a tour showing where and how the different wines are produced. For a more personal experience, reserve a private wine and cheese tasting at Heritage Station.