New Jersey’s wine industry has entered 2026 with rare momentum, the kind that turns local tasting rooms into national talking points and transforms seasonal winery visits into must-attend cultural events. Across the state, vineyards are celebrating award-winning vintages, unveiling expanded programs, and preparing for a packed calendar of winter and spring experiences that continue to redefine New Jersey as a serious player in American winemaking.
The year began with a milestone moment for the Garden State’s reputation in competitive wine circles. A South Jersey vineyard captured one of the highest distinctions in a major national competition, earning top recognition for a red blend that stood above entries from every region of the country. For New Jersey, a state once underestimated in the world of viticulture, the victory represents more than a medal. It signals a turning point where local soil, climate experimentation, and refined production methods are producing bottles capable of rivaling long-established wine regions.
That same winery followed its headline win with additional accolades for another premium blend, reinforcing that its success was no fluke. Behind the scenes, expanded cellar programs, curated tasting flights, and long-term vineyard planning are helping position New Jersey wine as both distinctive and consistently high quality. For visitors, that translates to richer tasting experiences and growing confidence that local bottles deserve a place on dinner tables and in private collections.
As recognition builds, the statewide event calendar is preparing to deliver one of the most active wine seasons in recent memory. Mid-February brings a romantic twist to tasting rooms across New Jersey with a special weekend dedicated to pairing artisan chocolates with locally produced wines. Guests can expect themed flights, live music, and festive décor that turn winery visits into full-date experiences just in time for Valentine’s celebrations.
Meanwhile, a Hunterdon County winery has launched a new series combining stand-up comedy with curated tastings. These evening events blend laughter, wine education, and intimate performance spaces, offering a fresh way to experience a night out that feels more like a boutique theater gathering than a traditional tasting.
Spring’s arrival will be welcomed with an indoor festival that brings together more than a dozen wineries under one roof. Attendees will sample a wide variety of local vintages, meet winemakers, and explore how each vineyard interprets New Jersey’s unique growing conditions. The event also serves as a showcase for new releases debuting just ahead of the outdoor season.
By early May, one of the state’s most anticipated annual wine and food celebrations returns to a luxury resort setting, where acclaimed chefs and winemakers join forces for a weekend of pairings, demonstrations, and tastings. This gathering has become a destination event not only for wine enthusiasts but also for culinary travelers looking to experience New Jersey’s expanding gourmet identity.
Beyond the large festivals, individual vineyards are adding their own winter and early spring attractions. One Warren County winery is hosting a rare barrel tasting weekend, inviting guests into its cellar to sample unfinished wines directly from aging casks. These behind-the-scenes experiences offer a glimpse into the craft before bottling, a treat for those curious about how raw vintages evolve into finished products.
In Hunterdon County, another vineyard has introduced complimentary guided tastings throughout January to debut its latest portfolio releases. These sessions focus on storytelling as much as sampling, giving visitors deeper insight into grape selection, fermentation techniques, and flavor development.
Further south, a beloved orchard winery continues its weekend music series, filling its tasting room with acoustic sets and relaxed daytime performances. The combination of live entertainment and easygoing ambiance has made it a winter favorite for locals seeking a cozy weekend escape.
Together, these experiences reflect a statewide wine culture that is increasingly immersive. It’s no longer just about sipping a glass; it’s about connecting with the people behind the bottles, exploring seasonal events, and discovering how local craftsmanship continues to evolve.
For those eager to explore more tasting destinations, vineyard experiences, and seasonal wine events, Explore New Jersey’s guide to wine and wineries offers a comprehensive look at the state’s growing wine trail.
As 2026 unfolds, New Jersey’s vineyards are not waiting quietly for warmer weather. They are earning national recognition, launching creative events, and welcoming guests year-round. From cellar tastings to comedy nights, chocolate pairings to music-filled afternoons, the Garden State’s wine scene is entering a new era—one that invites visitors to raise a glass, stay awhile, and experience something genuinely worth toasting.
Winter Warmth, Wine, and Creativity: A January and February Experience at Working Winery. There’s something uniquely inviting about winter in New Jersey’s wine country. When the vines rest under cold skies, the tasting rooms come alive with laughter, music, and creative energy. At Working Winery, the end of January and early February transform into a season of connection, where live entertainment meets hands-on artistry and every visit offers something new to discover. This isn’t simply a winery event calendar. It’s a carefully curated stretch of experiences that blend local talent, relaxed social atmosphere, and inventive workshops designed to turn ordinary weekends into memorable moments.
As January closes, the winery sets the tone with an evening dedicated to craftsmanship and conversation. On Thursday night, guests can unwind with live performance from Vinny Rugnetta while enjoying a special discount on wines by the glass. It’s the kind of after-work gathering that turns a casual sip into a reason to linger longer, share stories, and sample new favorites from the tasting list.
Friday continues the lively momentum with Open Mic Night, hosted by Kevin McGowan. These nights have become a staple of community entertainment, giving local musicians, poets, and storytellers a welcoming stage. The audience plays as much a role as the performers, creating a supportive space where talent emerges organically and the energy feels authentically homegrown.
Saturday afternoons shift toward live music, filling the winery with an easy rhythm that pairs perfectly with a flight of reds or a crisp winter white. Sundays bring featured performances like Erin McAndre, rounding out weekends with melodic ambiance that invites guests to settle in, relax, and let time slow down.
Yet what truly distinguishes Working Winery’s winter schedule is its lineup of creative workshops, designed to spark imagination as much as enjoyment.
The Goat Milk Soap Making Workshop invites participants to dive into a hands-on experience that blends artistry with self-care. Guests learn the fundamentals of soap crafting while designing their own custom bar, choosing colors and scents that reflect personal style. It’s a beginner-friendly class that sends everyone home with a nourishing handmade creation, perfect as a gift or a personal indulgence. And yes, wine is available throughout the session, because creativity always flows more freely with a glass nearby.
The following weekend ushers in a Crushed Glass Resin Suncatcher Workshop that captures the sparkle of winter light. Participants select from whimsical seasonal designs, paint a wooden base, and layer colorful crushed glass into resin for a stunning finished piece. No prior experience is needed, just a willingness to play with color and texture. The result is a bright keepsake that reflects sunlight long after winter fades.
Not to be outdone, early February also welcomes a Ceramic Painting Experience centered on a charming heart-themed serving dish. Guests choose between ceramic glazing, which is kiln-fired for a professional finish, or acrylic painting, which allows same-day take-home convenience. It’s an ideal workshop for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a relaxed afternoon of creativity with wine at hand.
Together, these events offer more than entertainment. They create a sense of community, blending art, music, and local flavor into a welcoming winter escape. Whether stopping in for a casual evening of live music, joining a workshop, or enjoying a quiet glass at the bar, visitors become part of a shared experience that celebrates New Jersey’s growing culture of craft and hospitality.
For those looking to explore more destinations where local wine, atmosphere, and community meet, Explore New Jersey’s guide to wineries across the state offers a deeper look into the Garden State’s flourishing tasting scene.
At Working Winery, winter isn’t a slow season. It’s a showcase of creativity, warmth, and togetherness. With music filling the room, wine poured generously, and hands busy crafting something beautiful, guests leave with more than memories. They leave with a story worth sharing and a reason to return.
