SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--While initially born of necessity, virtual wine tasting events and experiences have struck a chord with consumers looking to connect with their favorite California wineries. Closed for public visits since March 16 due to the statewide shelter-in-place (SIP) order, many wineries have found virtual events to be so popular that they plan to continue offering them even after their tasting rooms reopen. Virtual tasting experiences present opportunities for wineries to engage with new and existing customers throughout the country—even when they can’t make it to California. To view all the virtual events, see Wine Institute’s consumer website: Discover California Wines.
Virtual tastings have been well received by wine enthusiasts both locally and out of state, according to Michael Haney, executive director of Sonoma County Vintners. “They allow our winery members to continue to build relationships with their consumers during this challenging time, and for the future.”
Local wineries swiftly pivoted from in-person tasting experiences to virtual versions—with immediate positive results, said Stacey Dolan Capitani, vice president of marketing for Napa Valley Vintners. “Wineries are reporting increased consumer engagement, meeting new potential customers and seeing increased wine sales.”
"The Paso wine community quickly embraced the virtual tastings and experiences,” said Joel Peterson, executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “We’ve been impressed with how our fans and followers have hopped on board and participated. The engagement has been fun!”
Read the full release to see a sampling of multi-date virtual tastings and experiences by California wineries across the state in May, June and beyond. To see all the virtual experiences, visit DiscoverCaliforniaWines.com for more events. Check back often as new experiences are being added daily.
Established in 1934, Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy group of 1,000 California wineries and affiliated businesses that initiates and advocates state, federal and international public policy to enhance the environment for the responsible production, consumption and enjoyment of wine. The organization works to enhance the economic and environmental health of the state through its leadership in sustainable winegrowing and a partnership with Visit California to showcase California wine and food.
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