When thinking of East Coast wine destinations, New Jersey might not immediately come to mind, but the Garden State’s wine industry is working hard to change that perception.
Grape and wine production is one of the fastest-growing agricultural sectors in New Jersey, according to Devon Perry, executive director of the Garden State Wine Growers Association. Much of this growth is concentrated in central New Jersey, particularly in Hunterdon County, which has become a hub for vineyard development.
“Hunterdon County has really become a hotbed for vineyard growth,” said Mike Beneduce, owner of Beneduce Vineyards in Pittstown. “The area offers numerous advantages for grape cultivation, including rolling hills that assist with water drainage and higher elevations that create beneficial temperature fluctuations.”
These cooler temperatures contribute to a slower ripening process, allowing aromatic grape varieties to maintain their natural acidity while developing rich fruity and floral aromas, Beneduce explained. Since planting their first grapes in 2009 and opening their winery in 2012, the Beneduce family now grows around 30 acres of grapes, specializing in northern European varieties like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Blaufränkisch.
“We used soil and climate data to make informed decisions about which varieties to grow, comparing them to European regions,” Beneduce said. “It’s all about the agricultural perspective.”
Hunterdon County’s geographic location also plays a significant role in the region’s growing wine industry. Positioned about an hour from both Philadelphia and New York City, the county has access to a market of more than 9 million potential consumers. Beneduce noted that being in proximity to two major metropolitan areas provides an advantage, as these markets are well-educated, have refined palates, and generally have higher disposable incomes.
Despite these advantages, New Jersey’s wine industry faces a challenge: local residents consume very little wine produced within the state. According to Beneduce, only 2% of the wine consumed in New Jersey is made locally, indicating a significant untapped potential for growth.
In response, several industry organizations, including the Garden State Wine Growers Association, are working to increase awareness and support for New Jersey wines. Perry emphasized that if residents became the primary advocates for local wine, it could significantly boost pride in the state’s wine industry.
The diverse climate, soils, and topography across New Jersey create both challenges and opportunities for grape growers. While these variations can lead to issues with pests and diseases, they also allow for the cultivation of approximately 80 grape varieties in the state, according to Daniel Ward, director of the New Jersey Center for Wine Research and Education.
New Jersey also has unique regulations that support the local wine industry. The New Jersey Farm Winery Act, passed in 1981, mandates that wineries must grow at least 3 acres of fruit, ensuring that all wine produced in the state uses New Jersey-grown grapes. This legislation ties grape growing and winemaking together, guaranteeing that winemakers have direct knowledge of the quality of the fruit used in their wines.
As a result, the state’s wine producers are focused on enhancing grape quality, which in turn improves wine quality and market value. Ward emphasized that the New Jersey Extension program helps growers achieve high-quality results, which is essential for the region’s growth and reputation.
For Beneduce, the goal is clear: focus on producing better grapes and making better wine. He believes that by prioritizing quality, New Jersey could eventually become recognized as a world-class wine region, competing with established areas like the Finger Lakes and Virginia.
While East Coast wineries, including those in New Jersey, often rely heavily on agritourism, they face limited opportunities in export markets. Beneduce Vineyards, for example, sells all of its wine directly to consumers. Ward suggests that East Coast wineries should lean into agritourism rather than focusing on exports, as this model can drive tourism and boost the local economy.
Beneduce added that wineries often serve as a catalyst for tourism, drawing visitors who also frequent local restaurants and shops. Beneduce Vineyards is part of the 579 Trail, a Hunterdon County tourism initiative that includes wineries, farmers markets, and other attractions.
With over 50 wineries already operating in the state, Beneduce is optimistic about the future. “We could easily have ten times the number of wineries we have now and still not be competing,” he said. “In the coming years, we expect several new wineries to open in Hunterdon County alone. The region is seeing strong growth, and we view it as a rising tide that will lift all boats.”
The growing success of New Jersey’s wine industry signals a bright future for the state’s agricultural and tourism sectors, as more people discover the unique offerings of the Garden State’s vineyards.
You Might Be Interested In:
