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A summer beer is meant to bring the same sensation as a summer rain—refreshment. You’re looking for an ice cold, crisp beer to help you beat the infamous heat of the East Coast. You want a beer that’s not going to weigh you down, but pair well with whatever is on the grill at the moment. But don’t just reach for your go-to mainstream beer, Jersey’s favorite craft breweries have put together the perfect brews for this summer. They’re offering something light & refreshing for every palate. Light, hoppy, fruity, or sour—but most of all—thirst-quenching. Take a look at our favorite summer beers for 2022.

E.Z. Peezy Peach | Blonde Ale | Axe & Arrow Brewing

With the perfect amount of peachiness and a strong citrus finish, Axe & Arrow is ushering summer in with a vibrant welcome. Their signature lemon & black tea blonde is back with a peachy twist. Light, crisp, fruity, and refreshing.

Find it on Untappd

Time Peace | American IPA | Westville Brewery

The self-proclaimed “quench your thirst” IPA is the perfect hoppy option for this summer. Brewed with Citra, Mosaic, and Amarillo hops, Time Peace leans towards a Northeastern style IPA, but without the weightiness. Flavors of orange, mango, passionfruit, and grapefruit come together for a juicy finish.

Find it on Untappd

Desire | Hard Cider | Armageddon Brewing

For your sweet tooth and cider-drinking friends, we recommend this hard apple cider made with fresh New Jersey blueberries. A subtle yet noticeable blueberry burst on the tip of your tongue the moment you taste it, followed by a pleasant, almost candy like sweetness that ends with the flavor of apples and leaves you asking yourself why you’ve never had anything this good before.

Find it on Untappd

Harker’s Glory | American Pale Ale | Swedesboro Brewing

Harker’s Glory offers beer fans a pleasant balance between hops and malts, which makes it one of the most approachable and enjoyed beer styles available. Its citrus-like hops and caramel-like malts impart the sensation of a soft body and carry a toasted maltiness throughout. Served ice cold, this ale offers the perfect mild IPA experience for summer.

Find it on Untappd

Chiefest & Greatest of Calamities | Sour | Eight & Sand Brewing

Sweet and not too tart, this fruited sour is one you do not want to pass up. Brewed with Dragonfruit powder and Pink Peppercorns. Sour and refreshing, with intense dragonfruit flavor and a mild pepper spiciness. Sweet, tart, but still light and easy to drink.

Find it on Untappd

Sunshine Patriot | Wheat Beer | Death of the Fox Brewing

Their take on a true classic Belgian Witbier, Death of the Fox put together the perfect brew to pair with warm weather. Hints of coriander, lemongrass, and orange peel. Light, crisp, and flavorful. The delicate spice notes are carried by a smooth citrus flavor all throughout. Highly drinkable, certain to become a summer favorite.

Find it on Untappd

Nonesuch | New England/Hazy IPA | Core3 Brewery

Put simply, there is nonesuch an IPA as this. Hoppy, crisp, and highly drinkable. Nonesuch is your go-to for slipping into a koozie and digging your toes into the sand.

Find it on Untappd

Best Craft Breweries in New Jersey

The Two Bridges Wine, Beer, & Spirits Trail takes you on a tour of the best craft beverages in Southern New Jersey. Find your new favorite brewery, winery, or distillery in NJ, and taste countless carefully-crafted beverages along the way. Each and every one of our members is ready to introduce you to their unique craft beverage experience. We encourage you to visit the tasting rooms of each of the members to discover the depth and range of craft beverages being produced in Jersey. Plan your trip today.

In this edition of our Member of the Month series, we’re featuring DiBella Winery. DiBella is a family-owned and operated winery based in Woolwich, New Jersey. Learn about how they got their start, their favorite wines to produce, and what you’ll find when you visit their tasting room.

How They Got Started

DiBella owners and 4th generation farmers, Will and Julie have been married since 2006. Between the two of them and their daughters, Gia & Mae, they maintain a relaxed & leisurely atmosphere in the DiBella tasting room. Julie takes on the mountains of paperwork, inventory, tastings, and orders that running a winery entails. She takes on these responsibilities alongside her job as a mother to their two daughters. Will leads the winemaking operation, through the planting and maintenance of grapes, processing, bottling, and so forth. Working part-time as a lab analyst, Will is more than comfortable with meticulous research and attention to detail. His passion for studying fine wines and what it takes to make them has led to the incredible bottles that their winery is known for.

Meet Will & Julie…

DiBella Signature Wines

DiBella offers a variety of wines made from 100% estate-grown grapes. When you visit the tasting room, we suggest trying a glass of DiBella Blush, a refreshing semi-sweet blush blend of Blaufrankisch and Traminette. Looking for something to take home? We recommend picking up a bottle of DiBella Merlot, a dry red wine with flavors of wild and black cherry. Best paired with red meat or pasta dishes.

Visit DiBella Winery

Will & Julie believe tasting rooms are about the opportunity to slow down. Fall into the relaxed & leisurely atmosphere of the DiBella Winery tasting room. Enjoy the variety of wines, talk to the makers, and leave with new memories.

See what their guests say:

“We tasted some of your wines at the Trolley Tour – we loved them all! We purchased the cherry cordial. Will definitely buy more wines from you guys!”

– Emily

“The wines were crisp and smooth. I purchased the Merlot, Chardonnay, and Lemon Pomegranate (a wine with lemon in it? Yes!) I can’t wait to try more! I hope a Cab Sauvignon is coming soon! I will be directing my friends straight to them at the upcoming festivals!”

– Karen

Explore South Jersey

Explore the best craft drinks South Jersey has to offer along the Two Bridges Trail. The Trail offers a full spectrum of flavors you’ll want to experience. We’re a collective of Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries located between the Delaware Memorial Bridge and the Ben Franklin Bridge in the great Garden State. Stay overnight and enjoy a variety of art, music, festivals, entertainment, shopping, and amazing food. Plan your trip today.

As the warm air strolls in, it’s time to plan your next tour of South Jersey. Historic towns and lush landscapes beg to be explored this Spring and Summer. That’s why we’ve pulled together a few of the best places to eat in between your Jersey adventures. Whether you’re grabbing a bite along the Two Bridges Wine, Beer & Spirits Trail or planning a relaxing evening with friends, keep these restaurants on your list. South Jersey loves entertaining an explorative palate. Greek, Italian, Indian, Mexican, American, and so many more cuisines are waiting for you. Where to begin?

Blueplate | Mullica Hill, NJ

Stop by the outstandingly creative farm-to-table restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Open every day of the week from 6 AM to 9 PM, Blueplate stays in the back pocket of every South Jersey traveler. They offer a wide range of gluten-free and vegetarian meals to accommodate every member of your group. Grab a table outside to soak up the quaint and colonial nature of Mullica Hill, NJ. Visiting for lunch? We recommend their Oriental Salmon, served over fresh cucumbers & tomatoes, noodles, cabbage, and finished with a zingy ginger dressing.

Olympia | Vineland, NJ

If you weren’t in the mood for Mediterranean food, you will be now. Just take a look at Olympia’s countless 5-star reviews to understand why it’s one of Jersey’s “must try” eateries. Olympia offers traditional Greek food & gourmet seafood in an intimate dining experience. Don’t skip the appetizers—their crispy & zesty saganaki is an experience you won’t want to miss. For dinner, we recommend indulging in their Gyro Platter. Enjoy delicate slices of spiced beef & lamb, broiled the traditional method on a revolving spit. Reed says: “Excellent food, excellent service! Top-notch Greek food. A must-try dining experience!”

Crave | Pitman, NJ

The true dining experience would be incomplete without dessert. We’re taking you to Crave in Pitman, NJ to finish off the meal. This eclectic cookie shop offers time-tested cookie favorites, as well as new and creative varieties every week. Try the fan-favorite Peanut Butter Cup Cookie for an indulgent, soft & chewy experience finished with a signature Reese’s Cup. The options are truly endless, so be sure to explore their menu and reserve a few for the ride home. Michele on Yelp says: “Best dessert ever. Once you go, you won’t go anywhere else.”

Best Restaurants in South Jersey

While we’ve highlighted some unforgettable locations for your next trip to New Jersey, we’ve only just scratched the surface. South Jersey offers a vast array of cuisines, family-owned restaurants, waterfront dining experiences, and beyond. Why visit NJ for your next culinary experience? There truly is something for everyone. Whether that’s traditional Mediterranean entrees or never-before-seen cookie varieties, your next experience awaits. Start exploring the best craft beverages of South Jersey today.

As the first chapter in our “Member of the Month” series, we’re featuring one of our latest members: Mission Spirits. Mission Spirits is an artisan, small-batch spirits distillery tucked behind four charcoal-colored walls in Millville, New Jersey. Their striking exterior is a perfect representation of the beverages produced inside, as they pride themselves on their risk-taking distilling techniques.

The Origins of Mission Spirits

Mission Spirits was formally founded in 2018 by Jay & Ashley Wheeler, but its story starts well before that. The endeavor truly began within the walls of a tiny Hell’s Kitchen apartment, when Jay first tried his hand at distillation. While this makeshift beginning might not have produced much that was drinkable, it did create a voracious passion for distilling. Four years, a baby, and a house in the suburbs later, that passion would continue to gnaw at him until it became too much to ignore. Jay and Ashley started down the path of forming Mission Spirits.

Roadblock after roadblock came their way. Everything from the distillery’s location to financing options seemed to form a brick wall between the couple and their vision. But in the persistent theme of trial & error, they navigated their way through. By 2020, fate’s hand had guided them to a building in the Glasstown Arts District of Millville and an unexpected partner by the name of Steve Kelley.

Bold Risks, Bolder Flavors

Mission Spirits is defined by its courage to break new ground. How so? Distilling partners Jay, Ashley, and Steve are proud supporters of a practice they call ‘technique blending’. They modify and emulsify distilling techniques—both new and old—to create truly original flavors.

White Rum, Dark Rum, and Beyond

Mission American White Rum is the product of a fine-cut molasses from mature sugarcane that is burned in the field and hand-harvested. A 72-hour fermentation and slow distillation produces a rum that coats the palate with muted caramel undertones. Looking for something deeper? The Mission Barrel-Rested Dark Rum greets the senses with its deep amber color & notes of toasted oak and honied undertones. Explore their full collection here.

The Mission Spirits Experience

In the spirit of true experimentation, technique blending has led them to shared looks of excitement and of course, a few glasses down the drain. They invite you to join them for a glass of their successes. Ready for more than that? Sign up for a one-of-a-kind workshop with the distillers. Discover everything you need to know about fine cocktails, expert bar craft, and distillation. Or make yourself the proud owner of a barrel of Mission Spirits, filled with your own unique flavor & strategy.

Discover South Jersey

Explore the best craft drinks South Jersey has to offer along the Two Bridges Trail. The Trail offers a full spectrum of flavors you’ll want to experience. We’re a collective of Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries located between the Delaware Memorial Bridge and the Ben Franklin Bridge in the great Garden State. Stay overnight and enjoy a variety of art, music, festivals, entertainment, shopping, and amazing food. Plan your trip today.

So you’re getting ready for your first distillery tour. With over 1,200 distilleries throughout the U.S., you have a wide variety of options ahead of you. Every distillery is different, with unique processes, techniques, and features. Their tours aren’t just about teaching you how spirits are made either. They’re about combining ambiance, music, flavors, education, and more to craft a multi-sensory experience. They put together one-of-a-kind tours to make your date night, company outing, party, or evening with friends memorable. So how can you make the most of it? What can you expect from a distillery tour? How should you prepare to tour a distillery? Find out now.

What Happens at a Distillery Tour?

As was stated, every tour is different. But generally, they’re going to take you from the grain to the bottle. Many facilities complete the different stages of production at separate locations. So your tour will go through however much of the process they handle on-site. Whether that’s everything except the bottling process, everything after the barreling process, or something else.

The distilling equipment is usually large, clean, shiny copper stills. While exciting to see, remember that they’re probably in use and touching such equipment is off-limits.

If your only experience with drinking spirits neat in the past was in the form of a shot, remember to slow down. Your tour is about understanding the drinks and how they’re made, not just consuming them. Learn to savor the samples you’re given and recognize the notes your tour guide might bring out. If you taste something you don’t love, that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to try the next one. One craft distillery can create a vast array of drinks.

Make time for your tour. Pondering, savoring, and meandering are your main goals for the day. Don’t squeeze in a distillery tour if you have dinner reservations 45-minutes later. Give your tour ample time for chatting with the makers, making new friends, and enjoying the surroundings after the fact.

What Should You Wear?

Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes. It is a production first and foremost, so you’ll be touring around some large and heavy equipment. Make sure your shoes are not only protective but comfortable for walking and standing for extended periods of time. Your tour may require extensive walking if it takes you to the far ends of the facility.

Are Guests Under 21 Allowed on Tours?

It depends on the distillery. Some will allow those under 21 on the tour, but without permitting them to sample. Others will keep tours 21 and over exclusively. Remember to read up on your distillery of choice in advance to find out about scheduling, pet-friendliness, family-friendliness, and more. Some locations might offer a full cocktail bar and dinner menu, others might just be about the production and a few simple drinks. Make sure the distillery you’re visiting meets your group and their goals for the day.

Prepare to Ask Questions

Now is your chance to talk to the experts. Any whiskey lover wants to know what it is exactly that produces the flavors they crave. Asking questions along the tour enables you to fine-tune your palate and discover more bottles you’ll love. As you’re tasting, keep a mental list of questions you have for the makers. Encourage your friends to do the same. You’ll enjoy picking up the distilling knowledge they draw out as well.

Best Distillery Tours in Jersey

Ready to plan your tour? We work with four different distilleries in South Jersey to present you with the best local spirits available. Explore each of the individual distillery pages to find out more about the drinks they produce, how they got started, when to visit, and more. Your next adventure awaits.

From boardwalks to rolling hills, to historic towns, New Jersey has much to offer the East Coast traveler. While Jersey might be known primarily for its seaside towns, it’s called “The Garden State” for a reason. We’ve pulled together our four favorite places to stay for those exploring the greener parts of New Jersey. Looking for the best lodging in South Jersey? Read on.

The Inn On Holly

Enjoy the cozy, historic, and Victorian experience of The Inn On Holly. Just 15-minutes south of Philadelphia, this gorgeous 4-bedroom bed & breakfast is all about comfort and charm. The Inn offers private bathrooms in every room, free Wi-Fi, and gourmet breakfast served daily. Take a stroll down South Broadway just a couple blocks away for an unforgettable Italian dinner or a cone of homemade ice cream. 

“Yvonne and Jake have created a top-of-the-line B&B experience at The Inn on Holly. Every nook and cranny of the entire inn is so beautifully appointed it’s breathtaking. We so appreciated their kind hospitality and the gourmet breakfast every morning was truly delectable. Thank you both for everything!” – Laura D. TripAdvisor 

Barrett’s Plantation House

For more historic charm, book your room at Barrett’s Plantation House. Dating back to 1735, the home features pumpkin pine floors, fireplaces, oriental rugs, and more for a truly antique experience. Wake up to a hot breakfast in the parlor, or take a stroll through the gardens with your morning coffee. The hosts are excited to welcome you into their stunning space.

One traveler on TripAdvisor had this to say about the Plantation House: “It’s hard to top the superlatives that so many other reviewers have used in describing their stays at Barrett’s Plantation House… they’re absolutely true! Gay and Craig are marvelous hosts, and they’ve created a cozy environment that both honors the home’s heritage and addresses the needs of a 21st century traveler.”

Courtyard Glassboro Rowan University

For a modern and convenient stay, visit the Courtyard Glassboro Rowan University. Their rooms feature flat-screen HDTVs, mini-fridges, and luxury bedding. After your long day of exploring the Atlantic coast, take a dip in the indoor pool and whirlpool. Make use of their fitness room, complete with free weights, ellipticals, and more. Start your morning at The Bistro with a hot breakfast and a specialty Starbucks coffee. The Courtyard wants you to feel at home in their hotel. 

“The Courtyard Hotel was very clean and inviting for the whole family. The pool was convenient as well as the gym right next to it to have a place for everyone. The fact that it is right on Rowan University’s Campus was nice since it was close to everything we needed.” – Tori J, TripAdvisor

Plan Your Stay in NJ

This is only just the beginning. New Jersey is a small state packed with culture, history, and scenic landscapes. Explore lush vineyards, sandy beaches, and cobblestone streets all in one place. Find fun & entertainment for every member of the family. What’re you waiting for? Plan your trip to South Jersey today.