2024 Cedar Rose Vinyards Silica Review

Takeaway

Silica from Cedar Rose is a lively, complex white blend from New Jersey that tastes like summer in a glass and proves the state’s wine scene deserves real attention.

First Thought

This week’s bottle came courtesy of our guest Steve, better known as NJ Stomps the Grape. He brought us Silica from Cedar Rose Vineyards, a small producer in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA of southern New Jersey. None of us had seen a blend quite like this before: 40 percent Viognier, 40 percent Albariño, and 20 percent Sauvignon Blanc. That combination alone had us curious. The price sits around twenty eight dollars, and Cedar Rose was kind enough to ship it to us directly. Expectations? Honestly, a mix of excitement and skepticism. New Jersey wine still feels unexpected to a lot of people.

Tasting NOtes

From the first pour, the nose was expressive and layered. Peach and floral notes led the way, joined by tropical fruit, green apple, and a touch of lemon and lime. A subtle green edge showed up too—somewhere between green pepper and cucumber—which added freshness without overpowering the fruit.

On the palate, the Sauvignon Blanc brought crisp acidity that kept everything lively, while the Viognier filled in with ripe peach and floral lift. The Albariño tied it together with a burst of citrus and a salty touch that made us think of summer by the shore. The wine felt bright but not thin, carrying a smooth texture and a finish that lingered with peach, lemon, and a whisper of honey. As it opened, the layers became even more pronounced, making each sip a little different.

Quick Tasting Notes

• Peach and floral aromasPeach and floral aromas
• Lemon and lime zest
• Green apple with a touch of cucumber or green pepper
• Tropical fruit lift
• Crisp acidity with a smooth texture
• Long, refreshing finish

Highlights

Why It’s Special
A truly unusual blend, Viognier, Albariño, and Sauvignon Blanc, crafted entirely from New Jersey fruit. It is a reminder that creativity thrives outside the big-name regions.

When to Pour It
Perfect for warm weather afternoons, backyard gatherings, or anytime you want something refreshing but layered enough to spark conversation.

Food Match
Seafood is the obvious play here. Think grilled shrimp, oysters, or ceviche. It would also shine with a summer salad or soft goat cheese.

Final Verdict

Silica is the kind of bottle that makes you rethink what New Jersey wine can be.

• Aaron – A Must Share: Loved how the blend delivered way more complexity than a simple Sauvignon Blanc, with layered aromas that made it stand out.
• Joel – A Must Share: Highlighted the unexpected freshness, with cucumber and green pepper notes that added personality and surprise.
• Colin – Wine Fridge Wine: Impressed by how wildly expressive it was right from the first pour, with peach and floral lift that kept evolving
• Steve – A Must Share: Proud to showcase a handcrafted New Jersey wine full of tropical fruit and honey tones that screamed summertime.

Group Consensus: This is not just a curiosity bottle. It is a serious, handcrafted wine that stands on its own. If you are a white wine fan who craves both fruit and freshness, or if you just want to explore an up and coming wine region, Silica deserves a spot on your table.

And as always Stop Wasting Your Wine!