One of the best parts of visiting local wineries is finding something you weren’t expecting.
Sometimes it’s a grape varietal you’ve never tried before. Sometimes it’s a hidden reserve wine that’s only available at the tasting room. And occasionally, it’s something that makes you stop and say, “Wait, that’s a thing?”
That’s exactly what happened during a recent visit to Bellview Winery in Landisville, New Jersey.
While looking over the wine offerings, I noticed something behind the bar that immediately grabbed my attention: wine taps.
As someone who enjoys exploring both New Jersey wineries and craft breweries, seeing wine served from taps wasn’t something I expected to find. Naturally, I had to learn more—and, of course, try a few pours for myself.
What followed was the discovery of a wine that quickly became the highlight of my visit.
Wine on Tap at a Winery
For many wine drinkers, wine comes in bottles. That’s simply what we’re used to seeing.
But wine on tap has become increasingly popular over the past several years, especially in restaurants, wine bars, and tasting rooms. Instead of storing wine in bottles, wineries can place wine in kegs and serve it through tap systems similar to those used for beer.
The concept offers several benefits.
Wine stored in kegs is protected from oxygen, helping maintain freshness. It can also reduce packaging waste since fewer bottles, corks, and labels are needed. For wineries, it can be an efficient way to serve wine during busy periods. For visitors, it creates a unique experience that often sparks curiosity.
I know it sparked mine.
Standing at the bar, I couldn’t help but wonder what wines were available on tap and whether the experience would feel different from drinking wine from a bottle.
The answer came quickly.
The wine was excellent.
Discovering Arcturus
Among the wines available on tap was a red blend called Arcturus.
After my first sip, it became clear why it was attracting attention.
Arcturus is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Blaufränkisch, split evenly between the two varietals. Both grapes have earned a place in New Jersey vineyards, and together they create a wine that feels uniquely suited to the region.
Cabernet Franc has become one of New Jersey’s most successful red grape varieties. It consistently performs well in the state’s climate and produces wines known for their fruit character, balanced acidity, and versatility.
Blaufränkisch is less common but continues to gain fans among New Jersey wine enthusiasts. Originally associated with Central Europe, the grape has adapted well to growing conditions found throughout parts of the Garden State. It often produces wines with bright fruit notes, freshness, and lively acidity.
When blended, the two varietals complement each other remarkably well.
The Cabernet Franc provides structure and depth, while the Blaufränkisch contributes freshness and energy. The result is a wine that feels balanced and approachable without sacrificing character.
Some wines require a long explanation.
This wasn’t one of them.
It was simply enjoyable from the first sip.
Why New Jersey Red Blends Deserve More Attention
One thing I’ve noticed while visiting wineries across New Jersey is that red blends often don’t receive the same attention as single-varietal wines.
Wine drinkers frequently seek out familiar names like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay. There’s nothing wrong with that, but sometimes blends offer some of the most interesting wines a winery produces.
Blends allow winemakers to combine the strengths of multiple grape varieties into a single wine. Instead of showcasing one varietal, they can create something that balances fruit, acidity, structure, and flavor in a way that may not be possible with a single grape.
Arcturus is a great example of that philosophy.
Rather than allowing one grape to dominate, the blend highlights the strengths of both Cabernet Franc and Blaufränkisch. The result feels balanced and intentional, creating a wine that showcases what New Jersey vineyards can produce.
For visitors looking to explore beyond familiar varietals, wines like Arcturus can be a great place to start.
Taking Some Home
A good indicator of how much I enjoy a wine is whether I decide to bring some home.
In this case, the decision wasn’t difficult.
I ended up having a growler filled with Arcturus before leaving the winery.
For anyone more familiar with breweries, growlers are commonly used to transport draft beverages. Seeing them used for wine adds another interesting element to the wine-on-tap experience.
It’s practical, convenient, and a little different from the traditional bottle purchase.
More importantly, it allowed me to enjoy the wine after the visit was over.
Every glass since then has served as a reminder of discovering something unexpected at a local winery.
Why Experiences Like This Matter
One reason I enjoy writing about New Jersey wineries is that they continue to surprise me.
Many people outside the region still underestimate what New Jersey wine has to offer. Even within the state, some wine drinkers haven’t explored the variety of wineries, grape varietals, and winemaking styles available.
Each winery brings its own personality to the experience.
Some focus on traditional European varietals. Others experiment with hybrids or unique blends. Some create fruit wines, sparkling wines, or dessert wines. Others find creative ways to serve and present their products.
Bellview Winery’s wine-on-tap program is one of those creative touches that helps make a visit memorable.
It’s not a gimmick. It’s simply another way to enjoy wine while highlighting products that deserve attention.
For me, it introduced a red blend I may not have otherwise discovered.
That’s one of the reasons I encourage people to visit local wineries whenever they can. You never know what you’ll find.
Final Thoughts
When I arrived at Bellview Winery, I wasn’t expecting wine taps to be the highlight of my visit.
But sometimes the most memorable discoveries are the ones you don’t plan for.
Wine on tap offered a fun and unique twist on the tasting room experience, and it led me to Arcturus, a blend that quickly became one of my favorite local wine discoveries this year.
The combination of Cabernet Franc and Blaufränkisch creates a wine that feels approachable, balanced, and distinctly New Jersey. It’s the kind of bottle—or growler—that reminds you why exploring local wineries can be so rewarding.
If you’re planning a visit to Bellview Winery, take a look at what’s available on tap. And if Arcturus is pouring, consider giving it a try.
You may find yourself leaving with a growler, too.
Have you ever tried wine on tap? Or have you discovered a New Jersey wine that completely surprised you?
Leave a comment below and share your experience. And if you enjoy reading about New Jersey wineries, local wines, craft beverages, and hidden gems throughout the Garden State, subscribe to Stevie’s Local Sips and never miss a new review, winery visit, or local sipping adventure.
