New Jersey wine

New Jersey Wine is the wine produced in the U.S. state of New Jersey. The state's wine industry has experienced significant growth in the last three decades with the number of wineries increasing from seven in 1981 to over 50 by 2019.

History

The history of wine in New Jersey dates back to the colonial times when the first settlers brought vines from Europe to cultivate. However, the industry did not flourish until the late 20th century due to various factors including prohibition and restrictive laws.

Wine Regions

New Jersey is divided into three American Viticultural Areas (AVAs): Outer Coastal Plain AVA, Central Delaware Valley AVA, and Warren Hills AVA. Each of these regions has a unique climate and soil composition that influences the types of grapes that can be grown and the style of wine that can be produced.

Grape Varieties

The state grows a wide range of grape varieties including both Vitis vinifera and French hybrid grapes. The most widely planted vinifera varieties are Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, while the most common hybrid varieties are Chambourcin, Vidal Blanc, and Baco Noir.

Wine Styles

New Jersey wineries produce a variety of wine styles including red, white, rosé, sparkling, and dessert. The state is particularly known for its high-quality red blends and Chardonnay wines.

Wine Tourism

Wine tourism is a significant part of the New Jersey wine industry. Many wineries offer tours, tastings, and special events to attract visitors. The state also hosts several wine festivals throughout the year.

See Also

• List of wineries in New Jersey
• American wine
• History of American wine