WRNJ Radio, Jay Edwards

RINGOES, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The Hunterdon Wine Express will return to Old York Cellars for its 2026 season, offering a four-hour experience that combines historic rail travel, guided wine tastings and a vineyard lunch from April through September.

The seasonal event, created through a partnership between Old York Cellars and the Black River & Western Railroad, has sold out for three consecutive years. It was recognized as Tourism Initiative of the Year at the 2023 Hunterdon County Economic Development & Tourism Summit.

Limited tickets for the 2026 season are now on sale.

New for 2026, the experience will begin at Old York Cellars, giving guests additional time to enjoy wine, food and live music at the vineyard before and after the train excursion.

Guests will travel by shuttle to the Ringoes depot for a 40-minute round-trip historic train ride to Flemington and back. During the ride, participants will take part in guided onboard wine tastings and storytelling led by an Old York Cellars wine ambassador.

After returning to the vineyard, guests will enjoy a guided wine, charcuterie, cheese and chocolate pairing, followed by a chef-prepared lunch by Executive Chef José Diaz and time to relax on the vineyard grounds with live music.

Each departure is limited to approximately 50 guests and typically sells out in advance.

“This experience highlights what makes Hunterdon County such a compelling day-trip destination,” said David Wolin, owner of Old York Cellars. “Guests travel from across New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York for a day that combines wine, food and the nostalgia of rail travel in a relaxed vineyard setting.”

The 2026 season runs from April 25 through Sept. 13, with 22 select Saturday and Sunday departures. The experience lasts about four hours.

Tickets are $125 per person, with early access pricing of $99 available through April 12. Wine Club members receive a discounted rate. Advance reservations are required.