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August 2019 by Laurie T.
My go to wine store! They have carefully chosen wines from small growers. You can get very good wine for $15 to 25 a bottle.
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February 2018 by Daniel F.
This place is a gem. I've been buying wine here for 2 years religiously. It has expanded our wine pallet 10 times over. It has seriously ruined our ability to buy super market wine. You can not buy this quality of wine for this price in a conventional store. We average between 15-20 per bottle some times stretching it up depending. The staff is unbelievably knowledgeable and helpful
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July 2017 by David O.
Honestly shocked there are only five reviews to this unique wine store (unique for NJ) considering this is a wine store that really cares about what they put out. After having been to several popular shops I feel there's enough integrity to put my two cents in: As someone who's attended countless wine sessions/classes and one who obsessively jots down full notes (including food pairings) to every wine I've had for the past ten years it's an absolute fact the best wines are from small producers in the $15-$35 range per bottle. This store vets every single bottle they put out. It's not a liquor store selling you wine, it's a wine store where experts can either guide you towards styles you gravitate towards or help you explore different regions that are less marketed but highly rewarding. These type of stores simply doesn't exist at other parts of the state (you'd have to go into the city for that). They care enough about their wines they keep the entire store at an optimal temperature. These aren't mass produced affordable wines that are easy to stock up on inventory every year, these are carefully curated affordable wines they decide to put on shelves if they like the batch every year. Wine made with pride, not a monocle. Expensive wines either have value from proper aging from proper storage or have an insane markup due to all the marketing costs (or taxes *cough CA*). I'll pay for the aged stuff sometimes. I refuse to pay for big company's tasting rooms and marketing dollars. I travel far to come here and stock up.
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November 2015 by Aly Y.
All is forgiven (but I won't forget) - fan of 56 Degrees now. Hubby liked a small batch beer that they offered in their beer tasting today. We also bought wines at reasonable prices, some we've had before and others not. They carry many wines that you don't usually find at other places which is why it's fun to browse and talk to the knowledgeable guys who work there.
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October 2014 by April R.
Stumpled upon this store the other day for the first time and was astonished - beautiful layout, knowledgable staff, great prices. Wish I'd found it sooner.
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January 2014 by A L.
I have been buying from 56 Degree almost exclusively for years since they first opened, and in all that time can safely say you are guaranteed a great wine at any price. Chris and his staff are passionate experts, extremely friendly, and are always willing to spend time with you to help you find the perfect wine that suits your taste, meal, or occasion. There is always a good selection of fairly-priced "cellar defenders," that more often than not drink better than rated wines at twice the price. While I have my go-to favorites, Chris and team have helped me expand my palate over the years, and on many occasions introduced me to unbelievably delicious new favorites.
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August 2013 by Michael K.
I've been a customer for about a year and have found myself buying most of my wine here lately, coming in from a considerable distance. The staff is passionate about wine and Chris curates his inventory very carefully. If they carry it, it will be good ... there are just no risky purchases here. Everything has been vetted for quality and taste. They usually offer tastings on weekends. There's something for everyone: sub-$10 quaffers (great ones), $300 trophy bottles, and everything in between. I'm a fan.
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November 2012 by Benjamin P.
A fantastic wine shop in north-central Jersey. Chris Cree, the owner and proprietor (and one of only 30 Masters of Wine in the US), really knows his stuff. Unlike other shops in the area, Chris is focused a bit more on old-world wines, though you'll also find some Californians and South Americans. Prices run the gamut, with a very consistent section of mid-priced $12-$20 wines labelled "cellar defenders." They specialize in smaller producers, though there are a few wines that are easily recognizable. Most wines have usually spot on descriptions posted, and I've found that when you ask for recommendations and can be pretty clear about what you like/what you're looking for, Chris can almost always steer you in the right direction. It's a bit of a hike for me to get here, but whenever I'm in the area, I make an effort to swing by.
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October 2011 by Kevin McGrath
Excellent wine shop! Extremely friendly & knowledgable staff. Great selection!
