Ep. 2783 The Suburban Gold Mine: Insights into New Jersey’s Wine Market with Brittney Abell | Masterclass US Wine Market

Is New Jersey the untapped gold mine for Italian wine? In episode 2783, Marissa Muoio is joined by Brittney Abell to explore New Jersey’s wine market and the opportunities hiding within its affluent suburban retail and dining scene. Together, they unpack what makes the New Jersey consumer unique, why the state represents an important opportunity for Italian wine producers, and how brands can communicate more effectively with consumers who may be curious about wine but are often looking for familiar entry points. From organic and biodynamic practices to the importance of simplifying complex wine terminology, Brittney shares practical insights into how producers and wine professionals can make Italian wine more approachable, while building narratives that resonate with the American consumer. What makes New Jersey a “Suburban Gold Mine”? New Jersey’s affluent suburban communities offer a compelling mix of retail, dining, and wine consumers and understanding how to reach them can unlock significant opportunities for Italian wine. Discover why New Jersey could be one of the most exciting opportunities for Italian wine in the US. More about the guest: Brittney Abell of Gary’s Wine & Marketplace in Madison, New Jersey, is a North Jersey native with more than a decade of experience in hospitality and the New Jersey wine industry. She previously served as Wine Director and Buyer at Grape Collective in Montclair and led the wine program for Skopos Hospitality Group. A CMS Level 2 sommelier currently pursuing WSET Level 3, Brittney also holds certifications in Sherry and Sake. She is passionate about discovering distinctive wines, making wine education approachable, and connecting consumers with the stories and people behind each bottle. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beable122/  Website: https://garyswine.com/  More about the host: Equal parts wine geek and storyteller, Marissa Muoio turns up the volume on the Italian Wine Podcast as a host of the Masterclass US Wine Market series! Marissa’s love affair with Italian wine started with a simple realization: behind every bottle of Nebbiolo, Brunello, or Fiano is a wild story of ancient history, passionate families, and incredible food pairings. But getting those stories onto American tables takes strategy. On the Masterclass US Wine Market, Marissa bridges the gap between Italian cellars and the American trade. She brings high energy, sharp questions, and plenty of laughs while chatting with top industry insiders, sommeliers, and importers on the East Coast. When she’s not in front of the mic geeking out over volcanic soils and forgotten appellations, you’ll usually find Marissa on the hunt for the perfect plate of pasta, road-testing new wine bars, or swirling something new with friends. Her ultimate motto? No acqua, solo vino. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marissamuoio/ LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/marissa-muoio/  Website: http://linktr.ee/marissamuoio  More interviews on US Wine Market: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/episodes_category/masterclass-us-wine-market/  _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp    If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin!