>Amid 1,400 acres of vineyards, graceful gardens and trickling streams is the renowned Renault Winery Gourmet Restaurant. The restaurant’s entrance, a ramp through three massive 105-year-old redwood wine casks, sets the tone for a truly unique dining experience. The main room of the restaurant, once called the “Method Champenoise,” is where the winery made its famed New Jersey Champagne. Today, several of the restaurant’s booths are made from the room’s original 100-year-old oaken casks. Stained glass windows, antique furnishings, a large stone fireplace and a gazebo in the center of the room remind diners of Renault’s rich and varied history.

Dinner at the Gourmet Restaurant at Renault is an event to remember and guests are advised to set aside two or more hours for the experience. The innovative menu invites diners to choose one exquisitely prepared entrees, while the executive chef complements their meals with the evening’s special appetizer, homemade soup, pasta, ice-cold sorbet intermezzo, gourmet salad and two wine samplings, adding an element of adventure and surprise. A selection of wine-based exotic drinks and Renault wines are also available at the bar.

Kristine Schmid creates a tempting array of desserts available ala Carte. Entertainment is provided to serenade dinner guests through their meals and dancing is encouraged.