Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/670021
9 0 V I N E YA R D & W I N E RY M A N A G E M E N T | M a y - J u n e 2 016 w w w. v w m m e d i a . c o m WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER OR FALL The seasons literally drive the winemaking process, so let's capi- talize on that and use each to talk about your work. Many wineries don't talk about winter, but it's a more advantageous time to visit than the public realizes, and it's your job to let them know that. It's slower in most tasting rooms, meaning more time for guests to talk to winemakers and industry insiders. There are fewer crowds, it's a better time to offer discounts, and you can create holiday-related p a c k a g e s a n d e x p e r i e n c e s t o inspire visits. Target those who prefer a more intimate visit and pri- vate experience. Guests can watch winemakers tending to the past harvest sitting in tanks and barrels, catch some bottling in action, or view the disgorgement process for sparkling wine. When the clocks change, spring brightens everything around us, and everyone seems to want to get out, see nature and explore. Aside from the traditional, how can you take full advantage of what's hap- pening in nature all around you? Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Win- ery in Healdsburg, Calif., found a niche with its tulip gardens. It's established the "Tulip Hotline" and folks (locals, especially) call in every February to see when the bulbs will bloom. There are hundreds, and the result attracts hundreds of visitors every year. Summer is a magic time in winery life. The weather draws both tour- ists and locals who want to get out. Big money makers include outdoor events and concerts. Wineries like Rodney Strong Vineyards, Wente Vineyards and Robert Mondavi are, of course, known for wine, but also have become well known for their reoccurring summer concert series and keep customers checking-in to see who'll play there next. M a t a n z a s C r e e k W i n e r y i n Sonoma County is known (aside from great wine) for its lush laven- der gardens, and it capitalizes on this during its Days of Wine and Lavender each June (this year will be its 20th celebration). It's found an angle that not only means some- thing to the winery personally, but appeals to a larger audience of trav- elers who may not want to drink or are looking for more entertainment than just wine tasting. The event includes live music, gourmet food and wine pairings, yard games, seminars and more. In fall, so much is already going on in the vineyards, the trick is again finding events that showcase Rodney Strong Vineyards' summer concert series is a popular annual draw.