A Winery with a Twist
Last weekend, my fiancé and I finally made our way to The Federal Twist Vineyard, located in Stockton, New Jersey. We’d met Jessica and the crew at several tastings before, so this visit had been on our must-do list for a while. Let’s just say—it didn’t disappoint. Between the warm welcome, the wine, and the live music, this spot is an absolute must-visit if you’re looking for a fun day of sipping, eating, and relaxing.
Meet the Family Behind the Vineyard
What makes The Federal Twist so special is its heart. The winery is a true family business, owned and operated by the Dorko family—parents Paul and Hattie, along with their five children. You can feel that sense of family in everything they do, from the way they greet guests to the care they put into their wines and food.
Wine Flights Worth Savoring
We kicked things off with two flights—one white, one red—totaling six wines.
White Flight
Vidal Blanc – Crisp, bright, and our top pick of the whites. Knock on Wood (Chardonnay) – A beautifully balanced Chardonnay with subtle oak. Hey Bett (Vidal Blanc & Traminette Blend) – Aromatic and refreshing, making it hard to choose a favorite.
Though the competition was tight, the Vidal Blanc edged out as our winner.
Red Flight
Federal Twist Vineyard Dry Rosé (Chambourcin) – Light, dry, and perfect for warm afternoons. Fed Red (Chambourcin) – A bold yet smooth red with depth. BFK (Blaufränkisch) – Hands down my personal favorite, with its rich, earthy profile.
For me, the BFK took the crown, though the dry rosé was a close second.
Food That Exceeds Expectations
The Federal Twist is currently working on completing a brand-new kitchen that will feature a full food menu. But don’t let that stop you—what they offer now is already delicious.
We tried:
Pork sliders, Chips and dips trio, Mediterranean hummus board with feta, olives, and pita wedges
Honestly, when the menu called these “snacks,” I wasn’t expecting so much variety and flavor. They might want to rename them to super snacks!
Relaxing Among the Vines
After our tastings, we grabbed a glass of Vidal Blanc and BFK and strolled through the vineyard before settling on the lawn to enjoy live music. Between the scenery, the tunes, and the wine, it was the perfect way to wrap up our visit.
Final Sip: Why You Should Visit
If you’re planning a day trip in Hunterdon County, make sure The Federal Twist Vineyard is on your list. Family-friendly, pet-friendly, and full of charm, it’s a place where you can sip, snack, and soak up the atmosphere. So head down to Stockton, NJ, and treat yourself to a glass (or two) of their incredible wines.
