UncorkNJ

Unionville Vineyards Joins UnCorkNJ!

UnCorkNJ is pleased to announce the newly added support of Unionville Vineyards. The award winning, Hunterdon County winery, is calling for a change in the laws which forbid direct shipping of wine in New Jersey. Unionville Vineyards was recently profiled in a Trenton Times article illustrating their history and the success they have enjoyed since operation began.

The winery, which has been producing wines since 1987, has been recognized with many awards and accolades. In 2009, they were awarded with the New Jersey Quality Wine Alliance designation for their Riesling 2007 and Cabernet Sauvignon 2006. In 2007, they were given a gold medal at the New Jersey Wine Competition in Atlantic City, for their Chardonnay 2007. Also in 2007, they were presented with a double gold medal at a prestigious California competition for their Chardonnay 2005.

Unionville offers tours and wine tastings through the fall, Sunday to Thursday, 12:00 noon - 5:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday, 12:00 noon - 7:00 PM. Please visit their website for information on the winery.

Take Action and please help continue UnCorkNJ's momentum!

Gaining Momentum

The support to overturn the direct shipping ban in Maryland has been gaining support recently. Wineries from Eastern Maryland, a heavy tourist area, have been losing business daily and are now calling for a change in the Legislature. Those visiting the area on vacation are unable to send their favorite local wines back to their home to enjoy year-round. The growth of the U.S. wine industry and demand for out-of-state wine has fueled direct shipping to be permitted in 35 states.

Like Maryland, New Jersey wine owners are being prevented from expanding their business, and wine-lovers are restricted in their free-choice. Help UnCorkNJ continue the momentum we have started by contacting your local legislators. This fall we take our fight to the State House. Spread the word to friends and family and help UnCork New Jersey!

Glass or Plastic?

A number of additional wineries in California have continued the momentum of manufacturing wine in plastic bottles. The marketing tactic is fueled by economic incentives, consumer satisfaction, and the opportunity for expanded businesses. The 1-liter plastic bottle, the competitor to a 750mL glass bottle, is sold at the same price, much to consumer happiness. In addition, wine drinkers have not noticed too much of a distinction in taste between glass and plastic. The plastic wine bottles have been marketed to restaurants and hotels who generally serve wine by the glass.

Help New Jersey wineries explore new marketing devices and grow their business to new niches in the region and nation, by contacting your local legislators voicing your support for direct shipping!

California's Potential Crackdown

The State of California, through the state's Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC), is potentially preparing a crackdown on third-party providers. The provision would require companies such as Amazon.com, who has been attempting to create a wine division, and other online providers, to obtain a license if they aid in the direct shipment of wine. California currently permits online sales, however, the move would seriously hamper continued growth of the industry.

Please help maintain the development of direct shipping in New Jersey. Encourage your friends and family to contact their local legislators.

Growth of New Jersey Wineries

Despite the slowdown of the economy, New Jersey wineries have continued to enjoy tremendous growth. Over the past five years wineries in the Garden State have more than doubled. Producers of wine have discovered new niches of consumers. Local restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts have become new markets allowing for growth. There is even more potential for NJ wineries to expand.

Help change direct shipping laws and allow NJ wineries to ship to out-of-state consumers and boost the local economy!