We’re thrilled to share that AWT Labels & Packaging has won Best of Category at the 2025 Printing Industry Midwest (PIM) Star Awards! Our Keeper’s Heart Single Irish Bourbon Whiskey label was recognized as the top entry in the “Labels and Wraps” category, showcasing unmatched craftsmanship and innovation in print. AWT’s Ink Department has been named Team of the Year at the 2025 PIM Professional of the Year Awards! This well-deserved recognition highlights their dedication, expertise, and incredible teamwork. The award was accepted by Operations Lead  Ryan Nichols and Ink Department Manger Chris Sandberg. Ryan was nominated for Young Professional of the Year, a testament to his talent and leadership. Finally, we celebrate Jim Lundquist, honored as the Graphic Arts Industry Leader of the Year. Jim’s legacy of excellence continues to inspire all of us at AWT.  Huge thanks to our incredible team for making this win possible!

Sonoma County is home to a remarkable array of native plants, each contributing to the rich tapestry of our local ecosystems. These plants are not only beautiful but also play a critical role in sustaining the health of our environment. From the rugged coastal ranges to the sun-soaked valleys of wine country, Sonoma’s native plants have evolved to thrive in our Mediterranean climate—making them ideal for sustainable and low-maintenance landscaping. Native plants are uniquely adapted to the soil, rainfall, and temperature of their home region. This means they require less water, fewer chemical inputs, and minimal maintenance compared to non-native species. In landscaping, that translates to less work for property owners and more harmony with the environment. Seven Native Plants Ideal for Sonoma County Landscapes 1. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) Hearty as they are iconic, our state flower thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its bright orange blooms are a

Planning a year’s worth of winery marketing campaigns might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! This guide offers 60 winery marketing campaigns—a mix of traditional ideas, trending concepts, and fresh ways to tie into wine holidays and cultural moments. Whether you tackle five campaigns or all 60, you’ll find plenty of ways to connect with your audience, build loyalty, and sell more wine. January – Fresh Starts and Cozy Comfort Start the year by replenishing wine racks, embracing wellness trends, and celebrating comfort. Restock the Wine Rack: Give customers a reason to restock their post-holiday shelves with irresistible case discounts. January Blues Buster: Warm up dreary winter days with a winery marketing campaign focused on bold reds and bubbly wines paired with hearty recipes. Dry January Wellness Kits: Stay on-trend with non-alcoholic bundles featuring sparkling water, herbal teas, and a voucher for tastings next month. Super Bowl Prep: Fo

Afternoon Brief: Alecia Moore, Winemaker and Two Wolves Wine Founder, Announced as Keynote Speaker for 2025 Unified Wine & Grape Symposium

The Unified Wine and Grape Symposium is proud to welcome Alecia Moore, winemaker and founder of Two Wolves Wine, as the keynote luncheon speaker to kick off the 2025 show on Tuesday, January 28...

Afternoon Brief, June 20th

Marchesi Antinori Will Take Full Ownership of Col Solare: Marchesi Antinori and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates announce change in ownership in the premier Red Mountain Washington winery...

“Winemakers . . . are often pressured to do things like reduce staff costs, or costs generally . . . Wine is a social beverage – its production should be social too.” – Oliver Styles, winemaker at Winemaker Halcyon Wines- Hawke’s Bay NZ “There is also the battle to reduce costs yet increase quality. We need to be profitable to be successful but defend what we need to successfully create wines of quality and distinction.” – Mark Beaman, Winemaker, Kenwood Vineyards “Sustainability is becoming key. Organics. biodynamics, natural winemaking, to paperless systems. Everything we can do to reduce waste and give back and nurture the land and sky the better.” – Paul Dawick, Head Winemaker at Mills Reef, “. . . we need to see a new wave of winemakers who are focused on innovation, sustainability, and inclusion.” – Lauren Barrett, Principal Consultant, By and By Solutions LLC “. . . many grape growers are d

Afternoon Brief, May 31st

U.S. Department of Commerce Makes Affirmative Subsidy Determination in Trade Case on Glass Wine Bottles from China: In a victory for the U.S. glass industry, the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) has preliminarily determined that the government of China unfairly subsidizes its glass wine bottle industry...

by MATT ALBRECHT  INNOVATIVE AGING THROUGH TRADITIONAL SOLUTIONS. While the barrel isn’t new, the way winemakers view them is evolving. Eying the trends of the worlds most appealing and best selling craft beer, we see reds and whites, of all different varietals, being paired with freshly used barrels. From rich bourbon barrel wine like Cabernets to decadent tequila barrel Sauvignons, the spirits emerge from deep within the wood to add an unparalleled level of complexity and body. Rum barrels deliver a mouthwatering sweetness; a rye barrel will bring its classic spice. Aging options now soar miles beyond just a handful of wood species, while creating inarguable reputations amongst passionate liquid artisans around the world. INNOVATION AT ITS FINEST, TRADITION AT ITS PUREST. Aging wine in spirit barrels isn’t new – winemakers have used bourbon barrels for decades when new oak has been in short supply. As craft beer and specialty spirits continue t

Wine’s Most inspiring People 2024: Aaron Lieberman — Walking the Wine Walk for Oregon’s LGBTQ+ Community

By Kathleen Willcox   As any CEO (or parent) worth their salt knows, going out and doing the thing — instead of pontificating about the importance of going out and […]