2 days ago
Jersey Fresh wine and beer could be coming to a shelf near you
New Jersey lawmakers advanced a bill on Thursday, June 12, 2025, that would allow wines and beer to feature 'Jersey Fresh' labels — if they're made with at least 51% of in-state produce, like grapes for wine. (Photo by Amalie Hindash for New Jersey Monitor)
Wines and beer made with Garden State products could feature new 'Jersey Fresh' labels under a bill lawmakers advanced Thursday.
'I would love to encourage our producers of our spirits to get their products, get what they need, their supplies here in the state. Let's encourage it,' said Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (D-Burlington).
The Jersey Fresh program began in the 1980s to inform consumers about produce grown in the state and promote buying from local businesses. In order for farmers to use a Jersey Fresh logo, they must show they meet U.S. Department of Agriculture standards and the USDA can conduct regular inspections.
Under the bill, a beverage should be made with at least 51% of in-state produce — like potatoes for vodka or barley for beer — to qualify for the Jersey Fresh designation.
Farmer John Hart told the committee the legislation would help small farms promote their products and bring farmers into another industry.
While Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia (R-Sussex) called the bill a step in the right direction, she said that threshold is too high for businesses in New Jersey — home to harsh winters. She said she's heard from distilleries and breweries who find it's hard to source products year-round to meet Jersey Fresh standards.
'In off-season, we might be importing grapes in, so unless we're counting the water as being sourced in New Jersey, I think the 51% is too high of a standard,' Fantasia said.
Katz said the standard is set by the agricultural industry. And the idea behind the bill was borne out of a New Jersey agricultural convention where none of the spirits had Jersey labeling on them.
'It's just a little bit of a unique label on that to show us that it's from New Jersey, and hopefully it will grow,' said Katz.
Members of the Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee passed the bill by a 7-2 vote, with one abstention from Fantasia. The measure, introduced last month, does not yet have a Senate companion.
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