Winery in Chester Opens as Morris County’s First
Morris County’s first farm winery, Rebel Sheep, officially opened its doors on Saturday, June 1, at Stony Hill Farms on North Road in Chester. Owned and operated by Dana Ronyack-Davis and Sarah Aromando, the winery stands out for its unconventional approach. Instead of producing traditional wines like Bordeaux or Pinot Noir, Rebel Sheep focuses on fruit wines crafted from crops grown directly on the farm.
A Different Kind of Winery
Unlike other wineries that source grapes from outside vineyards, Rebel Sheep makes its wine entirely from Stony Hill’s harvest. Current offerings include blueberry, cranberry apple, cranberry strawberry, peach, raspberry, strawberry cider, and rhubarb. Some blends feature table grapes for balance, though the winery does not yet rely solely on grape-based production.
According to Ronyack-Davis, the idea began several years ago after a bumper crop of apples went unsold. Rather than waste fruit with blemishes or imperfections, the farm decided to ferment it. What started as small experiments with gallon-sized containers grew into full-scale production in climate-controlled rooms where fermentation, bottling, and packaging now take place.
The “Rebel” Concept
Ronyack-Davis explained that the name reflects both creativity and independence. “We came up with this concept of using our fruit to make wine – which is not traditional,” she said. “That is the rebel part. Then we got stuck on being the black sheep of the industry.”
Some fruits, such as raspberry and blueberry, work well on their own because they mimic grape-like depth. Others, including rhubarb and peach, benefit from blending with apple or grape. Although Rebel Sheep may experiment with pure grape wine in the future, the owners plan to remain focused on nontraditional fruit-forward blends.
Community Celebrates
The grand opening drew community leaders and local officials. Former Chester Township mayor and current Assemblyman Michael Inganamort praised the addition of the winery as another point of pride for the town. “Not only do we have five farms and a charming downtown and the state’s biggest craft show, but now we have Morris County’s first and only winery,” he said. Chester Borough Mayor Janet Hoven echoed the sentiment, adding that Stony Hill Farms has long been a cornerstone of the community.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony included Inganamort, Hoven, Chester Borough Councilwoman Karen Ferrone, and Mendham Township Committeewoman Amalia Duarte. Following the celebration, guests toured the farm, which spans 55 acres in Chester and manages 500 acres across the region.
Stony Hill’s Next Chapter
Founded in 1988, Stony Hill Farms built its reputation on flowers before expanding into fruits and vegetables. Known for its farm stand, playground, pick-your-own fields, and corn maze, the farm now adds wine to its attractions. “We are the same Stony Hill Farms we have always been,” said Ronyack-Davis. “We just want to add another fun thing for people to come here and experience.”
Tasting Opportunities
Customers can sample wines in the on-site tasting room or purchase bottles to take home. In addition, a ticket to enter the farm and pick your own produce now includes a complimentary tasting. Rebel Sheep wines will also be available at local farmers’ markets.
