AC restaurateur kicking off year-long celebration of NJ wineries

Kimberly Redmond//October 19, 2022//

AC restaurateur kicking off year-long celebration of NJ wineries

Kimberly Redmond//October 19, 2022//

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Sharrott Winery
An restaurateur is teaming up with the Garden State Wine Growers Association to host a year-long celebration of New Jersey’s top wines, starting with Sharrott Winery. – GARDEN STATE WINE GROWERS

An Atlantic City restaurateur is teaming up with the Garden State Wine Growers Association to host a year-long celebration of New Jersey’s top wines.

Starting in November, four Tennessee Avenue restaurants (Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, Cuzzie’s Pizzeria, Bar 32 and Rhythm & Spirits) owned by Mark Callazzo will showcase a different winery each month.

When the promotion kicks off Nov. 11, all four venues will feature Sharrott Winery, a Hammonton location that was recently chosen as Best New Hybrid Red Wine as part of the Garden State Wine Growers Association annual Governor’s Cup awards.

Wines will be available by the glass and bottle and wine pairing dinners are planned at Rhythm & Spirits and Bar 32.

Callazzo, a self-described wine connoisseur, said he especially loves wines produced in New Jersey, which is why he contacted the Garden State Wine Growers Association with an idea to bring these wines to a wider audience.

“I am proud that my home state produces some of the finest wines you’ll find anywhere, and my partners and I want to showcase them at our restaurants so others will recognize the quality,” he said.

Devon Perry, executive director of the Garden State Wine Growers Association, was immediately on board.

Garden State Wine Growers Association Executive Director Devon Perry
Garden State Wine Growers Association Executive Director Devon Perry – GARDEN STATE WINE GROWERS ASSOCIATION

She also suggested Callazzo launch the celebration in November since the third week of the month is the annual New Jersey Wine Week (Nov. 13-19).

“The Garden State is home to four thriving American Viticultural Areas with Atlantic City located squarely in the Outer Coastal Plain AVA covering nine southern counties — and there’s an incredible selection of local wine within less than an hour drive from Atlantic City,” said Perry. “Getting New Jersey wines on the map via Tennessee Avenue is a great way for locals and visitors from all over the world to experience the finest Garden State wines.”

Larry Sharrott Sr., owner of Sharrott Winery, said they are thrilled to be the first winery spotlighted.

“Our state produces wines that rival any of the great wine regions of the world,” he said. “We encourage everyone to visit Tennessee Avenue to try some of New Jersey’s best wine.”