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IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 17, 2017 www.nj.gov/agriculture
PO Box 330
Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0330

Contact:
Jeff Wolfe
P: (609) 633-2954
C: (609) 433-1785
E: jeff.wolfe@ag.state.nj.us                       

Wine Week Includes Visit to Local Garden State Winery

(HAMMONTON) – New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher and the Garden State Wine Growers Association today visited Plagido’s Winery in Hammonton in recognition of New Jersey Wine Week, encouraging consumers to visit a winery, restaurant featuring New Jersey wines, or neighborhood liquor store to purchase local wines.

Governor Christie signed a proclamation declaring November 13-20 as Wine Week to honor the wine industry for being a growing contributor to the state’s economy. During this week, many wineries hold events, including Music and Wine Nights at the Hopewell Valley Vineyards on Nov. 16-17, a Holiday Appetizer Party on Nov. 18 at the Villa Milagro Vineyards in Phillipsburg, and the Wine and Music Series at Summit City Winery in Glassboro on Nov. 18.

“New Jersey high-quality and unique wines are being recognized as among the best in the world, winning national and international competitions,” Fisher said. “This is a great time of year to head out to a winery to sample these wines, enjoy the open space and tranquility, and have a fun time.”

One of the country’s top wine producers with 1.5 million gallons produced in 2016, New Jersey is home to more than 50 licensed wineries.

"New Jersey wineries have grown into a full-fledged industry that continue to raise awareness of local wine and grape production in the Garden State,” said Tom Cosentino, Garden State Wine Growers Association Executive Director. “The GSWGA is proud and pleased to have the support of the Department of Agriculture as we continue to work together to increase consumer participation and elevate the perception of New Jersey wines.”

Plagido’s Winery, owned by Ollie Tomasello and a two-time GSWGA Winery of the Year, is one of 47 members of the Garden State Wine Growers Association, which consists of wineries, grape growers and affiliated companies.

“We take pride in not only making great wine, but also creating a family atmosphere where people can come out and relax and spend time together,” Tomasello said. “Along with seeing our work reach fruition with the harvesting of grapes and making of wine, we really enjoy seeing our customers happy when they are in the tasting room and the beauty of the grapes in the vineyard.”

A family produce farm since the late 19th century, the vineyard was first planted in 1999, and opened to the public in 2007. The 2016 & 2017 NJ Winery of the Year, Plagido’s is a family owned and operated vineyard located in the blueberry capital of the world in Hammonton. Tomasello is a fourth-generation farmer and all grapes used in Plagido’s wines are estate grown and fermented on the premises.

In the last several years, Plagido’s has won international and national awards for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet/Merlot Blend, Coeur D’est, Concetta’s Casalinga, Cranberry, & Blackberry wines. 

For a list of New Jersey wineries and regular events that take place at wineries throughout the state go to www.newjerseywines.com.

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