How to Still Experience Wine Country During Uncertain Times

And provide much-needed support to local businesses in the process

While you may not be able to visit your favorite wineries right now because either they are closed or you are practicing social distancing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Wine Country! Here are a few ways to stay connected:

1. Order some of your favorite sips. And be sure to try some new ones! Most wineries ship direct, so now’s the time to build that wine cellar you’ve always dreamed of. Not only will this give you a steady supply of wine while you are laying low at home, but it also helps these small business – many of which rely on visitation to survive – stay afloat during this tough time. We still want there to be wineries to visit when this is all over, right? The time is now to support local businesses in the ways that we can. Many wineries are offering great specials on individual bottles, gift packs, and shipping rates at the moment, so take advantage.
2. Get creative with wine tasting! We are seeing some of our favorite media platforms and social media influencers hosting live virtual wine tastings. Stock up on a few bottles and join in the conversation. This will help you feel connected AND teach you the art of wine tasting. Host your own with your friends online if you’re up for it!
3. SHARE…virtually. Again, small businesses need your help right now more than ever. With all of the at-home wine tasting you are doing, post your thoughts online! Share your tasting notes and impressions on social media, being sure to tag wineries and regions. These businesses will appreciate it.
4. Review. Finally get around to doing all those Yelp, Facebook, and Google reviews you swore you were going to do after all of those positive customer service experiences you had not too long ago.
5. Brush up on your wine studies. Taking a wine class or working toward a certification right now? Use this time to work through some of the material, take practices tests, or do timed “exam conditions” tastings. You will regret not taking advantage of the time you may find yourself with right now when life picks back up – hopefully sooner than later.
6. Reach out. Send a message of support to your favorite winery, tasting room staff, or winemaker letting them know you appreciate them, and asking how you can help. This is a small gesture that goes a long way right now.

We will get through this. Let’s all stay positive, be kind, and do our part to make sure we come out the other side of this stronger than ever. Don’t forget to wash your hands!