The Garden State non-profit group will assess consumer acceptance, costs, and environmental impact
June 10, 2026 (New Jersey) — The Winemakers Co-Op, a collective of New Jersey wineries dedicated to driving the fine wine movement in the Garden State, has launched a pilot program to evaluate kegged wine as a sustainable alternative to traditional bottle packaging in tasting rooms.
The program, The Winemakers Co-Op on Tap, is kicking off this summer; a selection of 100% Garden State-grown and made wines will be available on tap at select member tasting rooms starting this month.
Because the majority of sales at participating wineries occur through their tasting rooms, the program offers an opportunity to reduce packaging waste, lower transportation-related emissions, and evaluate the economic and environmental benefits of kegged wine in a direct-to-consumer setting.
“Our member wineries are focused on implementing sustainable initiatives in both the vineyard and winery,” said Danna Shapiro, Executive Director of The Winemakers Co-Op. “Because so much of our wine is sold directly through tasting rooms, kegged wine presents a compelling opportunity to reduce packaging waste while also broadening tasting room selections. This pilot will help us better understand the environmental and financial impact, as well as consumer reception of the format.”
In addition to serving wines on tap, participating wineries will collect consumer feedback regarding perceptions of kegged wine quality, sustainability awareness, purchase motivations, and future purchase intent. Findings, along with an analysis of kegging versus bottling costs, will be compiled into an industry report to be shared with New Jersey wineries late this fall.
The participating wineries are Auburn Road Vineyards, Beneduce Vineyards, Hawk Haven Winery & Vineyard, and William Heritage Winery. Wine selections will rotate throughout the summer, with a full menu available online here.
While the program period will close in September, the individual wineries will apply key learnings from the pilot program and continue to evolve their on-tap wine offerings.
About The Winemakers Co-Op
The Winemakers Co-Op was founded in 2015 with the common goal of increasing the quality and perception of the fine wines of New Jersey. Member wineries aim to produce benchmark dry wines from
estate‑grown vinifera (European) varieties that illuminate the differences in soil and climate that exist throughout the Garden State. Through a series of intimate tasting events, industry outreach and communication with the press, these wineries have established themselves as leaders of fine wine production on the East Coast. By spearheading essential industry research and development, Co-Op members are striving to push the boundaries of quality with each new vintage. For more information, please visit thewinemakersco-op.com.
