Willow Creek Winery: A Whimsical Haven for Rare Wines

Willow Creek Winery is among the three topmost East Coast wineries, specializing in the production of rare Malvasia Bianca vines that stretch far and wide. Unlike the other two wineries, Willow Creek Winery stands alone as a haven inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Its decor and gardens feature whimsical items such as a human-sized chessboard, giant playing cards, and hidden gardens waiting to be explored. All in the name of extracting pure wine from the rare grape variety selected from 13 different types. 

Workers at Willow Creek Winery put quality into consideration by carefully checking each plant. Their daily routine involves counting leaves to ensure that each vine has exactly 13 leaves to produce top-quality grapes for every bunch harvested. They also monitor other wine grape varieties that include Merlot, Pinot Noir, and both varieties of Cabernet.

The only challenge facing wine grape farming is the persistent heatwave. Hot weather conditions combined with high humidity keep workers busy in vineyards. They prune and cut back leaves to help the vines get rid of excess water that could spoil the grapes. Trapped moisture and high humidity are likely to cause rot.

The same workers monitor the progress of grape vines to ensure that they don't overgrow beyond the recommended size. Their effort on the farm has yielded positive results given the crisp and dry taste from the Malvasia Bianca grape variety.

“These suckers grow an inch of height a day, which can take energy away from the grape clusters if left unattended,” said Hamilton Wilde, the current general manager of Willow Creek Winery. While addressing  Do the Shore, Wilde hopes that consistent rain in West Cape May will prevent the rotting of grapes.

Hamilton Wilde goes ahead to emphasize the importance of keeping things fresh. He points out that fresh and local are guiding principles to keep the business grounded.

"A lot of people go the cheaper route-buy something from a big corporation versus a boutique or local place," he said. "But it doesn't feel good, and there's a quality difference." He said that when you purchase the local products directly, you can easily point out their source. Only if the product is fresh, especially the seafood whose source is Wildwood Dock Street Seafood Co-op. Willow Creek Winery's commitment aims at strengthening community ties and supporting the local fishermen.

Away from fresh seafood and rare wines, locals at Willow Creek enjoy morning walks in the vineyards. According to Barbara Wilde, Hamilton Wilde's daughter and biochemist,  plant lovers converge in the open spaces as trucks offload more flowers than what most local shops stock in one season.

Willow Creek Winery located on 168 Stevens Street in West Cape May, New Jersey. It's open seven days. You're invited to taste rare wine, pick some fresh eggs, or explore its majestic gardens that fuse beauty with bounty in one entity.