How New Jersey’s Women in Wine Are Shaping the State’s Next Vintage
By Nicole Partis
While the New Jersey Women in Wine Trail isn’t a physical trail, it represents a vibrant network of women across the state’s wine industry. Organized through the Garden State Wine Growers Association, it fosters connection, mentorship and professional growth.
With more than 40 members, the Women in Wine Caucus, spearheaded by the Garden State Wine Growers Association, is a rising force. These women are running tasting rooms, blending small-batch reds, and shaping the state’s vinicultural future. The New Jersey Women in Wine Trail offers a rare chance to meet them where the magic happens: in the vineyards themselves.
This north-to-south itinerary isn’t just a tasting tour, it’s a celebration of the women reshaping New Jersey’s wine scene. Savor the journey through New Jersey’s wine country and get ready to uncork the trail.
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Hills And Heritage
Villa Milagro Vineyards, Phillipsburg
Dr. Audrey Cross, a public health expert turned organic winemaker, has cultivated a sanctuary where sustainability and storytelling intersect. Her “Place of Miracles” vineyard overlooks the Delaware River and hosts brunch-and-bubbly gatherings that are ideal for small-to-mid-size groups (under 20 guests).
- Group Tip: Book in advance for brunch events. Charter buses must navigate narrow roads. 15-passenger vans or minicoaches work best.
- Experience Highlight: Educational tastings with a nutrition twist + sparkling brunches with river views.
Beneduce Vineyards, Pittstown
A festive hub known for its Group Therapy music nights and dry rosés, Beneduce combines rustic charm with a progressive team. Female assistant winemakers and event managers play key roles in shaping its identity.
- Group Tip: Walk-ins allowed for groups under 10; call ahead for anything larger.
- Experience Highlight: Live music, lawn games, and dry reds in a social setting.
Central Sips
Unionville Vineyards, Ringoes
In Hunterdon County, Vineyard Manager Rachael White leads visitors through the living architecture of the vines. Time your visit for a canopy-pruning demonstration, where she explains how sunlight and airflow affect grape flavor and structure.
- Group Tip: Wooden picnic tables are perfect for tastings. Buses can park in the overflow lot with prior notice.
- Experience Highlight: Behind-the-scenes viticulture demo + wine flights on the farmhouse lawn.
Laurita Winery, New Egypt
This sprawling, accessible property is perfect for large groups, with versatile venues that accommodate 35 to roughly 300 guests. The winery hosts year-round events; from vibrant food truck festivals to comedy nights and themed parties, while its rolling grounds invite relaxed strolls between tastings.
- Group Tip: Ample space for buses and plenty of indoor-outdoor seating.
- Experience Highlight: Sweeping vineyard views and a robust events calendar.
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Sunset Reds And Coastal Farewells
Auburn Road Vineyards, Pilesgrove
Co-owner and winemaker Julianne “Jules” Donnini left the legal world for a life among the barrels, and she’s never looked back. Her vineyard exudes warmth and creativity, especially at The Enoteca wine bar, where house-made pizza pairs perfectly with bold reds.
- Group Tip: Charter buses should use the Sharptown-Auburn Road access for easy turnaround. Groups under 12 should reserve patio seating in advance.
- Experience Highlight: Artisan pizza, live music, and Donnini’s approachable reds.
Willow Creek Winery, Cape May
End your journey at this jaw-dropping estate, where Barbara Bray Wilde oversees one of the largest wineries in South Jersey. Her story, equal parts grit and glamour, pairs well with the sunset tasting flights that have made Willow Creek a group favorite.
- Group Tip: Ample coach parking and large-group tastings available. Reservations required for groups under 10.
- Experience Highlight: Grand tasting hall, outdoor fire pits, and golden-hour flights.
Driver Options and Group Planning Tips
When planning your journey, think ahead about designated driver options; whether that means rotating shifts among your group, hiring local car services, or booking a private driver through Garden State Wine Growers Association’s recommended partners.
Certain wineries are especially charter-friendly: Villa Milagro can accommodate groups of 15–20, Auburn Road offers a convenient bus lane, and Willow Creek boasts ample turnaround space for larger coaches.
For a playful twist, join the New Jersey Wine Country Passport Program and collect stamps as you sip. The free booklet or mobile app lets you log each stop, and groups who complete the trail earn rewards, making it both a fun challenge and the perfect reason to discover even more women-led wineries along the way.
Booking Your Trip
Time your trip to catch one of the state’s signature celebrations. In May, the Mother’s Day Wine Trail offers exclusive pours, vineyard brunches, and sparkling rosé to toast mom. Come September 20–21, 2025, Fall Wine Fest NJ brings together wineries from across the state for the ultimate wine party, complete with live music, food trucks, and plenty of space for big groups.
The New Jersey Women in Wine Trail isn’t just a road trip; it’s a tasting journey through grit, grace, and grape skins. Whether you roll in by charter bus, carpool caravan, or luxury coach, these female-led vineyards are ready to pour you a glass of their story.
For more great travel stories, Read the Full Leisure Group Travel Magazine and Subscribe to the Newsletter for FREE
