The Vineyard to Market Workshop Series launches this spring as a three-part program designed to support Lake County growers in navigating today’s market landscape. Each session will focus on a critical piece of the grower-to-buyer relationship, from understanding winery expectations to refining how vineyards are positioned and communicated, to gaining clarity around contracts and negotiations. Workshop 1 | April 29, 2026, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Buyer Perspectives: What Wineries Are Looking for From Growers An inside look at how wineries evaluate vineyard partners, including current market conditions, quality expectations, and key factors influencing purchasing decisions. Speakers:  Ben Byczynski, Director of Vineyard Operations, Draxton Wines Ryan Decker, Owner, DeckerVIT Workshop 2 | May 20, 2026, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Vineyard Branding & Messaging: Communicating the Value of Your Vineyard A practical session focused on how to clearly position and communicate vineyard value. To

Explore the newest RedChirp innovations, the latest carrier changes in the telecom industry, and how leading wineries are evolving their messaging strategies to stay ahead. Jennie Gilbert will be joined by industry experts Paul Learly, Founder of Assemblage Strategy Group, and a WISE (Wine Industry Sales Education) partner, bringing deep, hands-on experience from their work with hundreds of wineries. Together, they’ll share actionable strategies to grow subscriber lists (email too!), increase engagement, and what's working best to drive revenue during the challenges of today’s DTC wine market. Attendees will leave with timely industry updates, expert perspectives, and practical ideas they can implement immediately. Wine Sales Symposium - May 13, 2026 DoubleTree Hotel in Rohnert Park, CA Learn More

For the fourth consecutive year, four seasoned wine industry thought leaders return to examine the critical challenges and opportunities defining the wine landscape in 2026. Each panelist will share their most important predictions and trends that wineries need to understand to thrive in the year ahead. This engaging panel discussion offers multiple perspectives on the forces shaping our industry, equipping you with practical insights to make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities throughout 2026. Session Panel: Chris Bitter, Senior Wine & Grape Analyst / Terrain Philana Bouvier, President / Demeine Estates Bourcard Nesin, Industry Analyst / Rabobank Dale Stratton, Managing Director / Azur Associates Moderator: Damien Wilson, Faculty Director and Hamel Family Faculty Chair of Wine Business / Sonoma State University

November 13, 2025 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Soper Reese Theater 275 S. Main St., Lakeport Join us for an engaging afternoon that brings together growers, winemakers, and industry professionals to explore what makes Lake County winegrapes truly distinctive. Through guided tastings, insightful discussions, and expert-led panels, this event will highlight the character, variety, and innovation that define our region. Register now to secure your seat for this special half-day tasting and learning experience. Program highlights: Aromatic Whites – Explore how Lake County’s high elevations and varied microclimates shape these fragrant, expressive wines. Sauvignon Blanc Comparison – Side-by-side tastings that reveal how Lake County terroir and grower–winemaker collaboration define the region’s signature variety. Alternative Reds – Discover lesser-known reds that thrive in Lake County’s volcanic soils and diverse vineyard sites. Cabernet Sauvignon Co

In the Fall 2025 issue of Winescape, Dr. Chris Bitter, Senior Wine and Grape Analyst at Terrain, dives into the data behind the decline in alcohol consumption to find its root causes. In this episode of Expert Perspectives, he outlines the five major factors and what he thinks is the biggest driver.

Wine Road Elects Six New Board Members, Including New President Infusion of leadership marks one of the largest board transitions in recent years Healdsburg, CA, May 30, 2025 — Wine Road, the premier association of wineries and lodgings in Northern Sonoma County, is pleased to announce the election of six new members to its Board of Directors—one of the largest board transitions in the organization’s recent history. Typically electing just two new members per term, this year’s changes reflect a unique and exciting chapter for Wine Road, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to its mission of promoting Northern Sonoma County as a world-class wine destination. The newly elected board members are: Julie Pedroncelli St. John, President, Pedroncelli Winery As a third-generation member of one of Sonoma County’s iconic Italian winemaking families, Julie brings decades of experience and deep roots in Dry Creek Valley. Pedroncellis have farmed the region s

Adapt, Connect, Thrive: Why Sales & Marketing Leaders Can’t Miss this Event In a time when the wine industry is facing headwinds on every front—rising inventories, demographic shifts, changing consumer preferences, and continued economic pressure—many wineries are grappling with how to evolve their approach to sales and marketing. The upcoming Wine Sales Symposium, taking place May 14th at the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country in Santa Rosa, was created specifically for wine sales and marketing professionals who are ready to embrace change and seek out the strategies driving real growth in today’s marketplace. Hosted by the Wine Industry Network, this one-day, in-person event brings together top-performing wine brands, leading industry voices, and innovative thinkers for a focused, no-fluff conversation about what’s working—and what’s not—in the business of wine. There are wineries out there that are doing well, but they’re not

In this episode of Wine Industry Insiders, George sits down with Dave McIntyre, a renowned wine writer, as we dive deep into the evolving landscape of the wine industry. From emerging trends to shifting consumer preferences, Dave shares his perspectives on what’s shaping the market today. He also discusses sustainability in winemaking and offers expert tips for both wine enthusiasts and professionals looking to stay ahead in the industry.

The 2024 vintage presented unique challenges and opportunities for growers and wineries across California. As we navigate shifting market dynamics, weather patterns, and evolving consumer trends, staying informed is more important than ever. That’s why Turrentine Brokerage is excited to participate in the upcoming Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (PRWCA) Vit Tech Seminar: 2024 Vintage Recap & Lessons for the Future, taking place in February 2025. Audra Cooper, Director of Grape Brokerage / Partner of Turrentine Brokerage will provide a review of the 2024 vintage and current market, then will moderate a panel discussion that covers multiple perspectives of the 2024 vintage, its impact on the wine and bulk market, as well as predictions for the future. Panelists include: Ben Taylor, Grower Relations Central Coast Region for Cakebread Cellars / Bezel Wines Edward Kronfli, President and CEO of Vine Shepherd Vineyard Management Matt Merrill, General Manager at Mesa Vineyard

Join four wine industry thought leaders as they once again explore the defining challenges and opportunities shaping the wine industry in 2025. Each panelist will present key predictions or trends they believe will be essential for wineries to be aware of to enjoy a successful year ahead. This dynamic conversation will offer insights from diverse perspectives, helping wineries better navigate the evolving industry landscape and seize emerging opportunities. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights and position your winery for success in 2025. Register Now