NJ Wine Trail added to Wine Week events

Last week I told you about New Jersey Wine Week happening Nov. 14-21 and now a companion event has been announced: the New Jersey Holiday Wine Trail.

Put on by the New Jersey Wine Growers Association, a coalition of New Jersey wineries and vineyards, it runs from Nov. 25 (Black Friday) through Nov. 27.

Garden State Wine Growers Association via Facebook

Wineries throughout the state have created a program of events and activities to please all ages - shop holiday bazaars and crafts vendors, experience fire pits and food trucks, live music, photos with Santa, raffles and more as you enjoy New Jersey wine in the vines.

For a list of New Jersey wineries and to learn more about the 2022 Holiday Wine Trail events taking place, go here.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association via Facebook

“The holiday season revolves around family and friends. Did you know that each and every New Jersey winery is family-owned? There is no better way to support growers and small businesses than to visit a local winery,” said Devon Perry, Executive Director Garden State Wine Growers Association. “The Holiday Wine Trail is local, family-friendly and a wonderful opportunity to discover New Jersey’s wine country!”

Garden State Wine Growers Association via Facebook

With over 60 wineries and vineyards in four distinct American Viticultural Areas, there’s a New Jersey winery within less than an hour’s drive.

The four American Viticultural Areas (AVA) are the Warren Hills AVA, the Cape May Peninsula AVA, the Central Delaware Valley AVA and the Outer Coastal Plain AVA. Vineyards across New Jersey grow more than 80 grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sangiovese, Albarino and Chardonnay.

New Jersey’s wineries also produce a wide array of fruit wines, and New Jersey is one of the top producers of wine in the country.

The Garden State Wine Growers Association via Facebook

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Bill Doyle only.

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: