U.S. Agency to Outline Program on Wine Exports
The Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of the U.S., the nation's official export credit agency whose mission is to support American job creation, prosperity, and security through exporting, will give an hour-long presentation on ways for small and medium-sized wineries to reach international markets. Registration is now open for the June 28 online session hosted by the Craft Wine Association. There is no charge to attend.
Iris Vineyards Opens Wine Bar in Downtown Springfield, OR
If you are near Springfield, Oregon, there is a new wine bar that just opened to the public starting June 2, 2022. Offering their award-winning wines and wine-based cocktails, the Iris Vineyards Wine Bar is located on Mainstreet in the town's historic center.
INSPIRE: A Celebration of Women in Wine
A commemorative project called INSPIRE: A Celebration of Women in Wine, has been created by Mario Chiodo, renowned artist, and John Dunbar, Yountville Mayor.
Direct to Consumer Wine Shipping Report: $4 Billion Breaks Record
After a rebound year, the wine industry is returning to pre-pandemic levels, according to the annual Direct to Consumer Wine Shipping Report, a collaboration between Sovos ShipCompliant and Wines Vines Analytics. A record $4.2 billion in wine shipments were made in 2021.
Wine conference attended by more than 6,000
The annual Unified Wine & Grape Symposium held in Sacramento this week drew more than 6,000 attendees, despite the ongoing pandemic and Omicron variant. Past years have seen more than double that amount of attendees, according to conference organizers. See photos from the conference here.
Farm Bureau: California winegrape harvest up slightly from 2020
Between wildfire smoke and the drought, California winegrape growers have been having a rough couple of years. Too much smoke during the 2020 fire season led to a wave of smoke-exposure rejections from wineries, while 2021's drought and heat led to thirsty vines struggling to support the crop.
Oregon’s McMinnville Wine Classic Set for Jan. 8
Based about an hour from Portland, Oregon, the McMinnville Wine & Food Classic will hold its annual wine contest on January 8, 2022. In its 29th year, the competition is open to all Oregon wineries and has recently announced a list of expert wine judges from across the industry.
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CBE: Selecting a Craft Beverage Distributor Part 5: Attracting Alcohol Distributors
After deciding on potential wholesale alcohol distributors to work with, you need to be ready to sell them on working with you. That means pitching them about the value your brand can add to their portfolio. Start your outreach with a distributor by phone or email. Be clear about your beverage’s specifications and why your brand and products fit well with the distributor’s portfolio. What you share with them shows them that you have done your homework and are committed to building a relationship. Read more from Craft Beverage Expo: https://www.craftbeverageexpo.com/blog/selecting-a-craft-beverage-distributor-part-5-attracting-alcohol-distributors/?mc_cid=6bcaab7a15&mc_eid=5dcf4bba9b
Deadline Approaching to Comment on Regulations to Improve Competition for Small Producers
Small wineries and other producers have less than two weeks left to comment on Notice No. 204 Request for Information Promoting Competition in the Beer, Wine, and Spirits Markets. Extended last month, the deadline is Oct. 1, 2021.
CBE: Selecting a Craft Beverage Distributor Part 4: Benefits and Drawbacks of Working with a Distributor
When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, the Federal Government gave the states power over ensuring responsible alcohol distribution. A three-tier system was introduced where liquor suppliers were required to work with a middleman, also known as a distributor or wholesaler, who would then sell the products to retailers. Overall, the system has worked. However, there are some things to consider before working with distributors. There are both benefits and drawbacks that you should address before jumping into a relationship with one. Read more from the Craft Beverage Expo: https://www.craftbeverageexpo.com/blog/selecting-a-craft-beverage
CBE: Selecting a Craft Beverage Distributor Part 3: Why Pick a Beer Distributor for Your Wine?
It seems obvious that you should pick a wine distributor if that’s your product segment in the craft business. However, that’s not always the case. Read more from the Craft Beverage Expo: https://www.craftbeverageexpo.com/blog/selecting-a-craft-beverage-distributor
Craft Wine Association Calls on Industry to Support Competition in Wine, Beer and Spirits Markets
While the official comment period ended on August 18, the Department of the Treasury is still accepting responses to a Request for Information (RFI) to gather input and consider how to create more competition in the American markets for beer, wine, and spirits.
Wine Critic James Suckling Calls for Oregon Wines to Review
Veteran wine critic James Sucklings's team is calling for Oregon wines to be reviewed next month, according to an email from the Oregon Wine Board. "The team at JamesSuckling.com invites all Oregon wineries to submit wines for review in its upcoming 2021 Oregon Report. Each producer may submit up to three different wines of any variety from anywhere in Oregon," said an email to industry professionals. "The tastings will take place in Hong Kong, and the James Suckling team is facilitating consolidated shipping that will ensure proper conditions during transit. Please be sure to read and follow the submission instructions carefully. [...]
Why Are Tripadvisor Reviews So Important for Small Wineries?
As tourist season gets started and the economy shows signs of reopening after the pandemic, the wine industry is expecting Americans to hit the road. If your small winery is not already listed on Tripadvisor, we highly recommend it. If it is, we have this advice for you.
Improving The Tasting Room Experience
First and last impressions count. That is why you will want to manage every facet of your guests’ experience when they visit your tasting room. That starts w...