A Look Behind the Scenes at Brook Hollow Winery: A Hidden Gem in New Jersey Wine Country. If you’re a wine lover looking for a unique tasting experience in New Jersey, look no further than Brook Hollow Winery, tucked away in the scenic hills of Columbia, just off Route 80 near the Delaware River. We recently had the chance to go behind the scenes with owner and vintner Paul Ritter, and what we discovered was a story as rich and satisfying as a glass of Brook Hollow red. 🍇 From Basement Hobby to Thriving Vineyard Brook Hollow Winery’s story begins humbly. Paul Ritter started out making wine in his basement as a hobby. That hobby took a big step forward when a friend allowed Paul to use a small, 400-square-foot barn on his farm—aptly named Brook Hollow—to host tastings. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and in 2012, Paul purchased his own vineyard. Just a year later, Brook Hollow Winery officially opened its doors in 2013, and it’s been growing ever since. 📈 Expanding the Dream Over the years, Brook Hollow has expanded significantly. Paul has acquired more of the surrounding land, built a larger tank room for winemaking operations, and even developed a stunning event space across the street. Whether you’re attending a tasting or planning a wedding, Brook Hollow delivers both charm and function. 🍷 100% Jersey Wine, 50% Estate-Grown Brook Hollow sources over half of its grapes right from its 30-acre vineyard in Northern New Jersey, with the remainder coming from vineyards in South Jersey, including Cape May County. All the wine is proudly made from New Jersey-grown grapes. Hybrid varietals thrive in the north and are grown on-site, while vinifera like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from the south. 🛢️ A Unique Aging Approach Brook Hollow does things a bit differently when it comes to aging. Instead of oak barrels, all wines are fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks. To achieve the complexity and depth that oak aging imparts, Paul uses oak chips and other oak alternatives. The result? Wines that are just as bold and flavorful, with a cleaner finish. 🍾 Two Ways to Taste Wine lovers have two tasting options at Brook Hollow: Premium Guided Tasting: Led by Paul or his assistant winemaker, Nick, this experience includes a full flight of wines, a charcuterie board, and a tour through the intimate tank room. It’s ideal for those who want to dig deeper into the winemaking process. Self-Guided Tasting: Choose up to four two-ounce pours from a selection of approximately a dozen wines. Perfect for a laid-back visit or for first-timers discovering New Jersey wine. 🎶 Events, Weddings, and More Brook Hollow isn’t just about wine. The winery hosts live music, craft fairs, seasonal events, and even corporate gatherings throughout the year. Their event space overlooking the vineyard makes for a truly memorable wedding venue for couples who love wine and scenic views. To learn more or plan your visit, check out their website: www.BrookHollowWinery.com Planning a trip to New Jersey wine country? Brook Hollow is proof that the Garden State has some serious winemaking talent—and a welcoming community behind every bottle.
Category: New Jersey Wineries
Exploring Some of the Best Sparkling Wines Made in New Jersey
Exploring some of the best sparkling wines made in New Jersey. If you’ve ever popped a bottle of Champagne on New Year’s Eve, then congrats—you’ve had sparkling wine! But did you know that New Jersey produces its very own sparkling wine, and some of it is truly exceptional? Before we dive into where to find it, let’s start with the basics. 💬 What Is Sparkling Wine, Anyway? Sparkling wine is just wine with bubbles. The fizz comes from carbon dioxide, which is created naturally during fermentation (or added later). Depending on how it’s made, it can be super fizzy (like Champagne), lightly sparkling, or somewhere in between. Some are dry, some are sweet, but all have that festive, fizzy feel that makes any occasion feel a little more special, even if it’s just pizza night. Champagne is probably the most famous kind, but only sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France can use that name. So what we call it here depends on where it’s from—Prosecco (Italy), Cava (Spain), and yes, just “sparkling wine” from New Jersey. 🥂 So… New Jersey Makes Sparkling Wine? Yes! And it’s getting noticed. Some New Jersey wineries use the traditional Champagne method (which takes more time but creates finer bubbles), while others go with easier methods that still taste great. Either way, the local grapes, the climate, and the creativity of NJ winemakers are turning out some seriously impressive bottles. 🍾 Where to Try New Jersey Sparkling Wine Here are a few wineries to check out if you want to try some local bubbly: Tomasello Winery (Hammonton) – Their Brut Rosé is made using the traditional method and has even won awards. It’s dry, elegant, and perfect for brunch or celebrations. Known for a wide variety of wines, Tomasello also offers a Sparkling Blueberry Wine, which is a fun, fruity twist on traditional bubbly. Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes) – Unionville makes limited amounts of sparkling wine that’s crisp, classy, and made with the same method used in Champagne. Auburn Road Vineyards (Pilesgrove) – Their Ladybug yellow label is a lively sparkling wine made from Gruner Veltliner grapes. Golden color. Aromas and flavors of golden apple, yellow pear, apricot and lemon curd. It’s refreshing and great for sipping on the porch. 🍽️ What to Eat with It? Good news—sparkling wine is really food-friendly. It goes with salty snacks (think popcorn or potato chips), soft cheeses, seafood, fried foods, and even dessert. It’s basically a party in a glass and works with way more than just cake. 🎉 Final Thoughts If you’ve never had sparkling wine from New Jersey, now’s a great time to try it. You don’t need a fancy occasion—just an open mind and a curiosity for something new. Whether you like it dry or sweet, New Jersey’s wine scene has a bubbly option that’ll surprise you, in the best way. Cheers!
Food and New Jersey Wine Pairing Tips for Beginners
Food and New Jersey Wine Pairing Tips for Beginners. So you’ve picked up a bottle of New Jersey wine—maybe from a weekend trip to a local winery or just out of curiosity—and now you’re wondering: what do I eat with this? Don’t worry. You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy a good pairing. I’m just a regular wine drinker, and I’ve learned a few easy tricks that can help your food and wine taste even better together. Here’s a simple guide for matching some common NJ wines with everyday foods—and where to find them! 🍗 Chardonnay + Chicken or Seafood Chardonnay is super versatile. A crisp, unoaked version goes great with grilled chicken or seafood. If the wine is buttery and oaky, try it with roasted chicken or creamy dishes like pasta Alfredo. Where to find it: Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes) makes an elegant, French-style Chardonnay. Cape May Winery offers both stainless steel and oaked versions, so you can try both styles side by side. 🌮 Riesling + Spicy Food Riesling is perfect for spicy dishes like Thai, Indian, or buffalo wings. A slightly sweet Riesling balances heat without overwhelming the flavors. Where to find it: Tomasello Winery makes both dry and semi-sweet Rieslings, which go great with takeout or homemade spicy meals. Old York Cellars (Ringoes) offers a smooth Riesling that pairs well with spicy BBQ or even sushi. 🍕 Chambourcin + Comfort Food Chambourcin is a smooth, medium-bodied red that’s fruity and not too heavy. It goes with all kinds of comfort food—pizza, pasta, burgers, even chili. Where to find it: White Horse Winery (Hammonton) has a really nice Chambourcin—easy to drink and super food-friendly. Sharrott Winery (Hammonton) also offers a great one that pairs perfectly with pizza night. 🧀 Vidal Blanc + Cheese and Snacks Vidal Blanc is light, refreshing, and sometimes a little sweet. It’s great for casual snacks, cheese boards, or even fruit and salty pretzels. Where to find it: Valenzano Winery (Shamong) makes a bright Vidal Blanc that’s easy to sip. DiMatteo Vineyards (Hammonton) has a fun, tropical version perfect for a picnic. Final Tip: Just Try Stuff Don’t stress over perfect pairings. Wine is supposed to be fun! Grab a bottle, make something you like, and see what works. New Jersey wineries are doing amazing things with both classic and hybrid grapes, and the best way to learn what you like is to taste and experiment. Whether you’re planning a dinner or just snacking on the couch, there’s a Jersey wine that fits. 🍷
Blue Cork Winery: A Scenic Family-Owned Vineyard in New Jersey
Discover Blue Cork Winery: A Hidden Gem in New Jersey Wine Country. Looking for a relaxing weekend escape, a fun date idea, or something different to do with friends? Blue Cork Winery in New Jersey might be just what you need. This beautiful, family-run vineyard offers scenic views, delicious wines, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, even if you know nothing about wine. A Picture-Perfect Setting for a Day Out Blue Cork Winery is located on a peaceful 7-acre vineyard that’s perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re visiting with friends or a special someone, their outdoor patio overlooking the vines is a dreamy spot to sip, chat, and enjoy the day. Family-Owned and Rooted in Tradition Owned by Michelle and Angelo Tantaros, Blue Cork was born in 2010 out of a passion for winemaking and family values. Their first vintage, a Chardonnay, was released in 2018. Since then, the vineyard has grown into a warm, welcoming space where their four children also help keep things running. Meet the Winemaker: A Blend of Passion and Education One of the standout parts of a visit to Blue Cork is meeting Dimetri Tantaros, Michelle and Angelo’s son, and the head winemaker. Dimetri doesn’t just work the vines—he studied Viticulture and Wine Technology, meaning he knows how to grow grapes, craft wine, and understand all the science behind it. If you get the chance to chat with him during a tasting, do it—you’ll learn a lot, even if you’re a wine newbie. Natural, Estate-Grown Wines Aged to Perfection At Blue Cork, the wine is made European-style, meaning no chemicals, pesticides, or artificial shortcuts. Every wine is estate-grown (made from grapes grown right there), and many are aged in French oak barrels for up to four years. Their state-of-the-art steel tanks (custom-made in Italy) help keep the wine clear and fresh. They even help reduce the chances of wine-related headaches—a bonus for casual wine drinkers. Try Something New: A Vintner’s Select Pet Nat Dimetri has also launched his first label at the winery called Vintner’s Select. The debut wine is Pet Nat, a slightly sparkling, naturally fermented blend of Traminette and Petit Verdot. It’s a great option if you’re curious to try something unique but approachable. Live Music, Wine Flights, and More Blue Cork isn’t just about wine—it’s about the experience. On many weekends, you can enjoy live music on the terrace, taste a variety of wines through curated flights, or just kick back and take in the vineyard views. Planning a celebration? Blue Cork also hosts private events and parties. Whether it’s a birthday, engagement party, or small wedding, the setting is both elegant and relaxed. Can’t Visit? They Deliver Nationwide! If you fall in love with their wines (and you probably will), you don’t have to wait for your next visit. Blue Cork ships their wines across the U.S., so you can enjoy a bottle from the comfort of your home, no matter where you live. Final Thoughts: Why Blue Cork Winery Should Be on Your List, even if you’re not a wine expert, Blue Cork Winery is the kind of place that makes you appreciate the craft behind every bottle. With a warm, family feel and a commitment to natural winemaking, it’s a must-visit destination in New Jersey wine country. So grab your favorite people, plan a day trip, and let Blue Cork introduce you to a whole new way to enjoy wine—no fancy knowledge required. If you enjoyed this post, please like, comment, and above all, share.
Why Autumn Lake Winery is the Perfect Year-Round New Jersey Escape
Why Autumn Lake Winery is the Perfect Year-Round New Jersey Escape. Let’s be real—not everyone is a wine expert. But that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a relaxing afternoon at one of New Jersey’s most scenic spots: Autumn Lake Winery in Williamstown. This place is the perfect blend of laid-back vibes, nature views, and sips you’ll enjoy (even if you don’t know what “tannins” are). You’re surrounded by beauty no matter where you sit—inside the cozy tasting room with a view of the lake, or out on the patio under the trees, glass in hand, with live music setting the tone. The atmosphere is chill, the people are friendly, and the wine? Let’s talk about that. Award-Winning Wines and a Little History Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, you’ll appreciate the fact that Autumn Lake’s wines are award-winning. One standout? Their Petit Verdot, which earned the Governor’s Cup. Not too shabby, right? The winery planted its first vines in 2012, and its first grape harvest—Cabernet Franc—came in 2014. Owner and winemaker Mark Hernandez still has one of the original bottles from 2016, proudly tucked away like a piece of history. Today, the vineyard spans 12 acres and is home to 17 grape varieties, with two more (Nebbiolo and Barbera) on the way. During our visit, Mark gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the vineyard. We saw the early growing season and learned to recognize different grapes just by their baby buds. What the Heck is Trentina? Mark also introduced us to Trentina, a newer Italian grape variety that’s exclusive to the Outer Coastal Plain region here in NJ. It’s a cross between Muscato Ottonel and Malvasia di Candia Aromatica—don’t worry, I hadn’t heard of them either. What does it taste like? Mark says, “candy and flowers in a glass,” and honestly—he nailed it. It’s light, aromatic, and super easy to drink. Even if you’re a wine newbie, this one might win you over. Inside the Winemaking Process After walking the vines, we headed into the tank room to see where the magic happens. One of the stainless-steel tanks was frosty on the outside—turns out, that’s part of the cold stabilization process, which helps keep wines clear and sediment-free. Autumn Lake uses this method for their whites and lighter reds, while the fuller-bodied reds age in neutral oak barrels for over a year. Mark’s even experimenting with toasted oak staves to enhance flavor in older barrels. Science aside, the result is wine that’s smooth, clean, and thoughtfully made. Plan Your Visit Autumn Lake Winery is open year-round, and trust me—it’s worth the trip no matter the season. With food trucks, live music, and some of the friendliest staff around, it’s an ideal spot to unwind. You don’t need to know the difference between a Pinot Noir and a Cabernet to enjoy yourself here. Check out their wine list and upcoming events at AutumnLakeWinery.com—and don’t be surprised if you leave with a few bottles for the road.
Bellview Winery is a Must Visit New Jersey Winery
A Day at Bellview Winery: Where Family Roots Meet Great Wine Bellview Winery is a must visit New Jersey wInery. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix warm hospitality with seriously good wine, you’ll find the answer at Bellview Winery in Landisville, New Jersey. The winery and vineyard are located in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA in southern New Jersey. Bellview isn’t just a Winery, it’s a Family My fiancé and I recently went on a private tour with Jim Quarella, the winery’s owner and vintner. Bellview isn’t just a winery — it’s a family farm that’s been around for four generations, starting with Jim’s great-grandparents. Even though Bellview has been growing grapes for 25 years, their first harvest was in 2020, and they opened their tasting room in 2021. They started small with classic grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Chambourcin. Today, they grow over 20 different kinds of grapes on 50 acres — and every bottle is made with grapes grown right there on the property. Jim took us on a walk through the vineyard and explained a little bit about how the grapes grow. We were there during a stage called “shoot growth,” where tiny grapes start to form right after the vines wake up for the season. It’s one of the first big steps in the growing process and pretty cool to see up close! Dandelion Wine Happens Here Next, we headed into the tank room where all the winemaking magic happens. Jim showed us a really unique wine they make called Dandelion Wine — it’s a sweet dessert wine based on his great-aunt’s old recipe. It’s one of their signature wines and definitely something you don’t see every day! Inside the tank room, there were huge stainless-steel tanks everywhere, some wrapped with thermal jackets to help control the temperature during fermentation. Bellview also uses oak barrels (but not the super-strong, smoky kind) to gently age their red wines and give them a smooth, spiced flavor. After the tour, we sat down for a tasting led by Jim and Bellview’s head winemaker, David. Every wine we tried was made from their estate-grown grapes. We sampled a bunch of different wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Grüner Veltliner, Traminette, Chambourcin, Blaüfrankisch, Cabernet Franc, and a new grape called San Marco, which was originally developed in Italy and recently brought to New Jersey with the leadership of Larry Coia and the Outer Coastal Plain Vineyard Association. Jim explained that San Marco is a cross between two Italian grape varieties and was created in 1993. It’s new to the area and something they’re excited about. Events, Parties and Live Music all Year Long Bellview isn’t just about wine — they host events year-round. Coming up soon are celebrations for Mother’s Day and Cinco de Mayo, plus they have live music every Friday and Saturday night. Bring a blanket, grab a bottle of your favorite wine, and just relax. If you’re looking for a laid-back, welcoming winery experience (without needing to know all the fancy wine lingo), Bellview is the place to check out. You must experience this winery and their fantastic handcrafted wines for yourself this year. You can find out more at bellviewwinery.com. Better yet… Check out the YouTube video. Have you ever been to Bellview Winery? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments.
New Jersey Wine? Yep — Here’s Your Guide to NJ’s 4 AVAs and Some of the Best Wineries to Visit
New Jersey wine? Yep — here’s your guide to NJ’s 4 AVAs and some of the best wineries to visit. When people talk about wine in the U.S., New Jersey probably isn’t the first place that pops into your head. But honestly, it should be! The Garden State has a long wine history and four official wine regions called American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). I know what you’re thinking — Jersey… wine? But stay with me, because these wineries are pretty cool, especially if you’re into weekend trips, chill tastings, or just want to impress your friends with something other than the typical go to big brands. 1. Warren Hills AVA Location: Northwest NJ Vibe: Rolling hills, river views, cozy small-town wineries. Wineries You Should Hit: Villa Milagro Vineyards (Phillipsburg): Eco-friendly, gorgeous views, and great European-style blends. Perfect spot for a sunset wine flight. Brook Hollow Winery (Columbia): Super chill, family-owned spot with really solid Chambourcin (a red you’ve probably never tried but should). Four Sisters Winery (Belvidere): One of the OGs in NJ wine. Low-key, affordable, and known for fun fruit wines and relaxing outdoor vibes. 2. Outer Coastal Plain AVA Location: South Jersey — Hammonton is in my opinion, the capital of NJ wine. Vibe: Flat farmland, beachy air, and serious wine potential. Must-Try Wineries: Sharrott Winery (Hammonton): is a modern space, with live music on weekends and wines that range from bold reds to crisp whites. Their Albariño is a sleeper hit. Tomasello Winery (Hammonton): has been around since the Prohibition days, and still crushing it. Known for both classic grape wines and sweet fruit ones, if that’s your thing. White Horse Winery (Hammonton): Instagram-friendly tasting room and nice dry Rosé for sunny afternoons. 3. Central Delaware Valley AVA Location: NJ/PA border — Hunterdon & Mercer counties. Vibe: River towns, small-batch wines, super scenic drives. Wineries Worth Visiting: Unionville Vineyards (Ringoes): If you’re looking for the “fancy wine” experience in NJ, this is it. Great Pinot Noir and Viognier. Old York Cellars (Ringoes): Friendly vibe, lots of events, and easy-drinking wines that won’t break your budget. Beneduce Vineyards (Pittstown): Weekend wine & live music in a greenhouse-style setup — what more do you want? Their Blaufränkisch is seriously underrated. 4. Cape May Peninsula AVA Location: Southernmost NJ, beach town, wine scene. Vibe: Salt air, sandy soils, and perfect white wines for hot days. Wineries to Check Out: Willow Creek Winery (West Cape May): Beautiful estate, cool wine garden setup, and some smooth reserve reds. Also doubles as an event space if you’re planning a fancy party. Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery (Rio Grande): Family-owned and super welcoming. Their Field Blend white is amazing on a summer day. Cape May Winery (Cape May): Longtime local favorite. Their Chardonnays are crisp, clean, and perfect for pairing with Jersey Shore seafood. The Bottom Line: Don’t Sleep on NJ Wine Next time you plan a weekend adventure, skip the same old brewery crawl and map out a New Jersey wine trail. Whether you’re into bold reds, crisp whites, or just want a new road trip excuse, NJ wineries have you covered. A lot of these spots host live music, food trucks, and even bring-your-own-picnic nights. Wine, friends, and a blanket equal a great day.
Sip & Stay: 10 Dog-Friendly Wineries to Explore in New Jersey
Sip & Stay: 10 Dog-Friendly Wineries to Explore in New Jersey. New Jersey’s wine country offers a delightful blend of scenic vineyards and welcoming atmospheres, perfect for wine enthusiasts and their canine companions. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day trip or a weekend getaway, these dog-friendly wineries across the Garden State ensure that both you and your furry friend can enjoy the experience. Here’s a small list of Wineries where you can enjoy a glass of wine with your pup: 1. Autumn Lake Winery – Williamstown, NJ Nestled around a serene lake, Autumn Lake Winery boasts walking trails, live music, and ample space for your pup to roam. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to combine nature walks with wine tasting. 2. Working Dog Winery – Hightstown, NJ As the name suggests, this winery is a haven for dog lovers. With live music, spacious grounds, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. 3. Cream Ridge Winery – Cream Ridge, NJ Known for its diverse wine selection, Cream Ridge Winery welcomes service dogs indoors and all dogs outdoors, making it a year-round destination for pet owners. 4. Cape May Winery & Vineyard – Cape May, NJ This winery is located near the shore and offers picturesque views and a relaxed setting. Dogs are welcome in designated outdoor areas, allowing you to enjoy the coastal breeze together. 5. Cedar Rose Vineyards & Winery – Millville, NJ Cedar Rose welcomes well-behaved dogs at their vineyard. They even offer treats for your furry family member. 6. Willow Creek Winery – Cape May, NJ This vineyard combines rustic charm with a dog-friendly policy. Enjoy their unique wine offerings while your pup relaxes by your side in the outdoor seating areas. 7. White Horse Winery – Hammonton, NJ With its expansive outdoor space, fire pits, and live entertainment, White Horse Winery is a lively destination. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, making it a great spot for social pups. 8. Old York Cellars – Ringoes, NJ Offering panoramic vineyard views, Old York Cellars allows dogs in their outdoor spaces. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a tranquil setting with their furry friend. 9. Bellview Winery – Landisville, NJ Bellview Winery welcomes dogs in their outdoor areas, providing a relaxed environment in which to enjoy their extensive wine list. It’s advisable to check ahead for any event-specific restrictions. 10. Valenzano Family Winery – Shamong, NJ Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Valenzano offers ample outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. It’s a great spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon with your pup. Tips for Visiting Wineries with Your Dog: • Leash Up: Always keep your dog on a leash and under control. • Hydration: Bring water and a bowl to keep your pup hydrated. • Clean Up: Carry waste bags and clean up after your dog. • Check Policies: Some wineries may have specific pet policies or restrictions during events, so it’s best to call ahead. Exploring New Jersey’s wineries with your dog can be a rewarding experience, combining the pleasures of wine tasting with the joy of spending time with your furry friend. Cheers to memorable adventures in the Garden State! Why not bring your furry friend on a wine trail with you? New Jersey has plenty of other great wineries that are pet-friendly to explore that are not listed here.
Tariffs offer a Great Time to Buy Local
Tariffs offer a great time to buy local. In light of President Donald Trump’s recent threat to impose a 200% tariff on European wines and spirits, including Champagne and cognac, exploring local wine options has become increasingly appealing. These proposed tariffs are a response to the European Union’s plan to levy a 50% tax on American bourbon whiskey. As a result, European wine imports may become significantly more expensive, prompting wine enthusiasts to seek alternatives closer to home. For residents of New Jersey, this presents a perfect opportunity to delve into the state’s burgeoning wine industry. The Rise of New Jersey Wines New Jersey, often celebrated for its tomatoes and blueberries, is also home to a thriving wine scene. With nearly 60 wineries operating across the state, New Jersey has established itself as a notable wine-producing region in the Mid-Atlantic. The state’s diverse microclimates and soil conditions allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of grapes, resulting in an impressive range of wines that cater to various palates. Exploring Local Wineries Embarking on a wine tour within New Jersey offers both convenience and discovery. Here are some notable wineries to consider: • Laurita Winery: Located in Ocean County, Laurita Winery is renowned for its sustainable practices and picturesque setting. The winery’s tasting room, constructed from two 150-year-old barns, provides a rustic yet elegant ambiance. Visitors can enjoy estate-grown wines that emphasize elegance and finesse. • Beneduce Vineyards: In Pittstown, Beneduce Vineyards offers handcrafted wines, live music events, and stunning views. The vineyard’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition as one of New Jersey’s premier farm wineries. • Old York Cellars: This winery boasts some of the oldest vines in the county and has garnered international awards for its vintages. Located in a beautiful vineyard setting, Old York Cellars provides a memorable wine-tasting experience. Supporting Local Economy and Sustainability Choosing to explore New Jersey wines not only offers a delightful tasting experience but also supports the local economy. By visiting nearby wineries, consumers contribute to the growth of local businesses and promote agricultural practices within the state. Additionally, reduced transportation distances mean a smaller carbon footprint, aligning with environmentally conscious values. Embracing New Flavors The Garden State’s wineries produce a diverse array of wines, from robust reds to crisp whites and delightful rosés. Each winery offers a unique interpretation of wine-making influenced by the state’s terroir. This diversity allows wine enthusiasts to discover new favorites and appreciate the craftsmanship of local vintners. Conclusion The potential increase in European wine prices due to proposed tariffs serves as an impetus to explore the rich and varied wine offerings available in New Jersey. By doing so, consumers can enjoy high-quality wines, support local businesses, and reduce their environmental impact. So, the next time you’re considering a bottle of wine, look no further than the vineyards of the Garden State.
A Day in the Life of a New Jersey Winemaker
A Day in the Life of a New Jersey Winemaker. Imagine waking up before sunrise. You get a head start on a day filled with nature, hard work, and a little bit of science. That’s what a typical day is like for a winemaker here in New Jersey. Morning in the Vineyard The day starts early in the vineyard. The winemaker and their team head out to check on the grape vines. They walk among the rows. They look at the plants to see if they’re healthy. They also check if the grapes are growing well. They keep an eye out for pests or any signs that something is wrong. It’s all about making sure the grapes are on track to become good wine later on. Harvesting and Crushing When the grapes are just right—not too green and not too ripe—it’s time to pick them. Depending on the vineyard, they pick by hand or use small machines. Once the grapes are gathered, they’re taken back to the winery. Here, the winemaker oversees the crushing process. Think of it as making a fresh fruit smoothie. Start with great fruit, and you are to end up with something delicious. Fermentation and Aging After crushing, the grape juice begins to change into wine through a process called fermentation. The winemaker closely watches things like temperature and time because even small changes can affect how the wine tastes. Later, they check on the barrels where the wine is aging, making sure everything is just right. The Personal Touch What makes this process special is the winemaker’s care and passion. It’s not just about following a recipe—it’s about telling a story with each bottle. Knowing about the journey from farm to bottle can add depth to every sip of wine. This is true even if you’re not a wine expert yourself. Have you ever had the experience of walking through a New Jersey vineyard? If so, comment below and share what it was like. Did you ever realize the hard work and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle? You can watch the process here. I belong to a group of local hobbyists known as the Carriage House Winemakers. We make our wine.