The bill modifies existing regulations for instructional winemaking facilities in New Jersey, allowing these establishments to sell wine for on-premises consumption during specific events and to donate wine to non-profit organizations. It enables license holders to serve wine produced on-site at events designed to promote winemaking for personal use and permits the sale of winemaking-related merchandise. Additionally, the bill clarifies that these facilities can host events where wine is served, even alongside other licensed establishments, as long as all relevant regulations are adhered to.
Key changes include the removal of restrictions on the use of wine produced at instructional facilities, allowing it to be consumed on the premises or distributed to participants for personal use. The bill also introduces a definition of "sampling," permitting the sale of wine samples at a nominal charge, which enhances community engagement and promotional opportunities for these facilities. While the bill maintains a cap on the annual production of wine at 10%, it eliminates the previous requirement that this wine could only be used to replace lost quantities during the winemaking process, thereby expanding the operational capabilities of instructional winemaking facilities.