Every now and then we open a bottle that reminds us why we enjoy exploring New Jersey wines. This week, we reached for one of my favorite red wine varietals from one of our favorite wineries.
For this Weekly Wine Review, we uncorked Bellview Winery’s 2022 Blaufränkisch, made from estate-grown grapes in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA. While Blaufränkisch may not be as familiar as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, it’s a varietal that’s definitely worth getting to know.
After spending some time with this bottle, it’s easy to see why it has become one of my favorites.
Bellview Winery Continues to Showcase Quality New Jersey Wines
Located in Landisville, New Jersey, Bellview Winery has become one of our regular stops whenever we’re in South Jersey. They produce a wide range of wines, from easy-drinking whites to bold reds, and there’s usually something for every palate.
One thing I’ve always appreciated is that Bellview doesn’t just stick to the familiar varietals. They also produce wines like Blaufränkisch that give visitors a chance to try something a little different while still showcasing what New Jersey vineyards can produce.
This bottle is another good example of the quality wines coming from the Outer Coastal Plain AVA.
What Is Blaufränkisch? A Unique Red Grape Growing in New Jersey
If you’ve never heard of Blaufränkisch, you’re probably not alone.
This red grape originated in Central Europe and is especially popular in Austria. It produces medium-bodied wines known for their bright acidity, dark fruit flavors, and subtle spice.
While it isn’t one of the most common grapes grown in New Jersey, it seems to do very well in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA. The combination of climate and soil helps create wines that are balanced, food-friendly, and enjoyable without being overly heavy.
If you’re looking to branch out from the usual reds, Blaufränkisch is a great place to start.
Bellview Winery Blaufränkisch Tasting Notes
The wine pours a deep ruby color and immediately offers inviting aromas.
On the nose, we picked up plenty of plum and dark cherry along with earthy notes, spice, and just a touch of smokiness. After the wine had a few minutes to open up in the glass, hints of vanilla began to appear, adding another layer to the aroma.
The first sip starts with a bright burst of acidity before settling into a smooth finish. The tannins gently coat the gums without becoming overpowering, giving the wine nice structure while keeping it very approachable.
Overall, I’d describe this as a medium-bodied, dry red wine with medium to high acidity and a smooth finish that makes you want another sip.
What Does Bellview’s Blaufränkisch Taste Like?
One thing I enjoyed about this wine was how balanced everything felt. The fruit never overpowered the earthy notes, and the acidity helped keep the wine fresh from beginning to end.
It’s the kind of bottle that’s easy to enjoy whether you’re sitting down for dinner or simply relaxing after a long day. As the wine continued to open, new flavors and aromas became more noticeable, making each glass a little different than the first.
Sometimes that’s exactly what makes a wine fun to drink.
Best Food Pairings for Bellview Winery Blaufränkisch
This is the type of wine that really shines alongside food.
Its acidity helps cut through richer dishes while the fruit and spice complement a variety of flavors.
Some pairing ideas include:
- Grilled steaks
- Roasted pork
- Bratwurst and other sausages
- German-inspired dishes
- Roast chicken
- Beef stew
- Mushroom dishes
- Aged cheeses
Whether you’re grilling during the summer or putting together a hearty meal in the cooler months, this wine fits in nicely.
Why This New Jersey Blaufränkisch Stands Out
One of the things I enjoy most about reviewing New Jersey wines is finding bottles that deserve a little more attention.
Bellview Winery’s Blaufränkisch is one of those wines.
It isn’t trying to be the biggest or boldest red on the shelf. Instead, it offers balance, fresh fruit, lively acidity, and just enough spice and earthiness to keep things interesting.
It’s approachable enough for someone trying Blaufränkisch for the first time, but it also has enough character to appeal to experienced wine drinkers.
For me, it’s become one of the New Jersey red wines I look forward to opening.
Weekly Wine Review Breakdown
- Winery: Bellview Winery
- Vintage: 2022
- Varietal: Blaufränkisch
- Region: Outer Coastal Plain AVA, New Jersey
- Body: Medium-bodied
- Style: Dry
- Acidity: Medium to high
- Tannins: Medium with a smooth, gentle grip
- Aromas: Plum, dark cherry, earthy notes, spice, smoke, and hints of vanilla
- Palate: Bright acidity followed by a smooth finish with balanced tannins
- Food Pairings: Grilled steak, roasted pork, bratwurst, schnitzel, roast chicken, mushroom dishes, hearty comfort foods, and aged cheeses
- Best For: Sharing with friends, pairing with dinner, or exploring a varietal that’s a little different from the usual reds
- Would I Buy It Again? Absolutely. This has become one of my favorite New Jersey Blaufränkisch wines.
Where to Buy Bellview Winery Blaufränkisch
If you’d like to try this wine for yourself, the good news is that Bellview Winery ships many of their wines directly to customers. If you can’t make it to the winery, it’s still an easy bottle to add to your collection.
If you’re planning a visit to South Jersey wine country, Bellview Winery is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Final Thoughts on Bellview Winery’s 2022 Blaufränkisch
This week’s Weekly Wine Review reminded me why I enjoy trying different varietals. While Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot often get most of the attention, wines like Blaufränkisch show there’s plenty more to discover.
Bellview Winery has put together a balanced, food-friendly red that’s easy to recommend. Between the dark fruit, earthy notes, bright acidity, and smooth finish, this is a bottle I could see enjoying throughout the year.
If you’ve never tried Blaufränkisch before, this is a great introduction.
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Have you tried Bellview Winery’s Blaufränkisch? I’d love to hear what you thought. Leave a comment below and share your tasting notes.
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