Ep. 074 Secretary of Agriculture for NJ Ed Wengryn
/Show Summary
This conversation with the Ed Wengryn, Secretary of Agriculture for New Jersey, opened my eyes even more to the depth, pride, and possibility inside my home state’s wine scene. We talk love of land, evolving quality, native grapes, how geography shapes flavor, and why New Jersey may be one of the most exciting—and underrated—wine regions in the country.
We explore why wine here is more about connection, curiosity, and community. From Cab Franc to Albariño, from the Pine Barrens to my Warren County, we unpack why drinking local isn’t just a movement—it’s an invitation to explore what’s right in our backyard - wherever you back yard is!
In this episode we explore:
How passion is driving the NJ’s wine culture
Why New Jersey’s diverse climate allows multiple wine styles across a small state
The gap between how much wine NJ produces vs how much we consume—and the opportunity it creates
Sweet wine lovers, dry wine seekers, curious newcomers—why everyone has a seat at the table
Treating wine like art: drink what you love, not what a label tells you to love
Varietals thriving in NJ—Cab Franc, Chambourcin, Albariño, Riesling & more
The new Secretary Select program spotlighting 100% Jersey-fruit wines
Why visiting wineries—and talking to the people behind the bottle—matters more than technical tasting notes
How wine helps protect farmland & strengthens connection to place