Summer time is upon us. Take this time to explore South Jersey the right way - the wine way. This list is my personal favorites based on tasting room, offered wines, staff and the opinions of my other trusted wine lovers. Cheers!

1. Valenzano Winery

Located in the heart of the Pinelands, Valenzano Winery has something for everyone. The tasting room is massive and classic, the wine is divine and the amount of events they offer is the reason they top my list. Seriously, ever heard of Wine Fest? Go look it up!

2. Bellview Winery

You'll find this gem tucked away like a diamond. The staff is friendly and welcoming. Their labels catch the eye and the wine captures the heart. Plus, they have a dandelion wine. Yes, you heard me. It's incredible and unique.

3. Heritage Vineyards

Lots of wine that you need to try. Love the tasting room and the fresh baked goods. The Peach Wine though is fabulous.

4. Sharott Winery

If it were up to my wine lovers, Sharott would have been number one. The atmosphere, the numerous wines, the staff, the summer events, it all makes for an amazing time.

5. Hawk Haven Winery

Already headed to the shore? Stop in Cape May and go check out Hawk Haven. Especially on a Sunday. Sangria Sunday should be a thing everyone should adopt (I am kidding, don't steal some one else's thunder).

6. Monroeville Vineyard and Winery

The tasting room is adorable. There may not be as many wines offered as some of the others, but quality beats quantity. The owners are sweethearts and the wine will have you coming back.

7. Natali Vineyards

Also located in Cape May. They offer such unique flavors and the labels make me happy. Bahama Mama Wine slushies anyone? They are number 7 because I am waiting on the arrival of their new tasting room.

8. Coda Rossa

I won't lie. I came here on chance. It was scrolling through the winery webpages and the fact that they described their wines as "Sweet/Whimsical" I was sold. Thankfully I followed my gut. The wine had my taste buds singing a merry tune.

9. Almalthea Cellars

This is actually on my this summer bucket list! The amount of friends I have that rave about their wines and hospitality earned them a spot on this list. See, we are in this wine trip together.

10. Salem Oak Vineyards

Another gem. The staff is so friendly and the winery has a great selection of wines and the employees know their stuff.

Bonus:

North Jersey favorites: Working Dog Winery, Four Sisters Winery, Alba Vineyards and Unionville Vineyards.