Gruver Farms Winery & Tasting Room
If you ever purchased a Christmas tree in our region, you may already be familiar with the name “Gruver.”
The family operates a longstanding tree farm in New Cumberland where customers can cut their own trees or choose from a variety of pre-cut options.
Their latest venture is the Gruver Farms Winery & Tasting Room, which is owned and operated by Jaden Gruver, who celebrated the grand opening in April.
“It’s been the culmination of five years of hard work and dedication to get the tasting room constructed and up and running,” Gruver said.
Year-Round
The story begins in the 1970s when Jaden’s father, Bob, purchased 32 acres of land on Stetler Road, launching a landscaping business and Christmas tree farm.
About a decade ago, Jaden decided to join the business to help expand operations. Since then, they’ve added pumpkins, a three-acre vineyard and the newly opened tasting room. The tasting room is located on the Christmas tree farm and is relatively large by some standards, at 3,200 square feet.
“We wanted to create a space big enough for residents to gather,” Gruver said.
His vision: to offer reasons to visit the farm all year-round. During warmer months, customers can take a seat on an outdoor patio and behold a beautiful view overlooking the countryside.
When it came to getting the word out and operating the winery, Gruver’s bachelor’s degree in tourism and hospitality management from Temple University came in handy, as did his hands-on experience.
“I worked at a couple wineries in various positions, from being out in the vineyard to making wine to help running tasting rooms,” he said.
Crisp, Refreshing
According to Gruver, the most challenging aspect of winemaking in central Pennsylvania is the unpredictable weather.
“One season can be perfect and the next can bring unexpected rain, humidity or late frosts, which really impacts the grapes,” he said. “So, it keeps us on our toes.”
In good years, Pennsylvania’s cooler climate and rolling hills create ideal conditions for crisp, refreshing whites and balanced, fruit-forward reds.
“The soil here is a mix of limestone and clay, which not only gives the grapes good draining, but also adds some complexity,” Gruver said.
Unlike many Pennsylvania wineries that focus on sweeter wines, Gruver Farms sets itself apart with dry styles. The wine is produced in partnership with Weathered Vineyards in New Tripoli using Gruver’s Marquette, Frontenac gris and Cayuga grapes.
“These wines really shine,” Gruver said. “The growing conditions are challenging, but they help bring out the character of each variety.”
Gruver’s personal favorite is the Frontenac gris.
“It’s crisp and refreshing with bright citrus notes and easily paired with light summer dishes like grilled shrimp, fresh salads or even a simple goat cheese appetizer,” Gruver said.
For non-wine drinkers, Gruver also offers beer, canned cocktails, coffee and non-alcoholic drinks.
Breathtaking
Harrisburg resident Kate Lewinson, who attended the grand opening and its lavender festival in late June, was impressed.
“I had a wonderful tasting lavender slushie,” she said, recalling the event that featured local vendors, live music and a relaxed atmosphere.
What struck her most, though, was the view.
“It’s incredible, and the sunsets are breathtaking,” she said.
“When people visit, they often say that it feels like a little slice of the Finger Lakes, right here in New Cumberland,” added Gruver.
The winery features live music on Friday evenings, yoga and barre classes in the vineyard, as well as private events.
“I’ve always loved how wine brings people together—whether it’s for celebrating big milestones or just enjoying a relaxing afternoon,” Gruver said. “We wanted to create a space where people could slow down, enjoy good wine, and connect with family, friends and community.”
Gruver Farms Winery and Tasting Room is located at 255 Stetler Rd., New Cumberland. For more information, visit www.gruverfarms.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
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