Navigating the Vine: A Chat with Sonoma County Winegrowers

 

In this episode, Karissa Kruse, President and CEO of the Sonoma County Wine Growers, discusses the recent reauthorization of the Sonoma County Wine Grape Commission, which received an impressive 85.77% majority vote from grape growers in Sonoma and Marin counties. Known locally as Sonoma County Winegrowers, the trade association for 1800 grape growers was established in 2006, and its mission is to market the wine region. Host Michelle Marques chats with Kruse about key initiatives, including a commitment to certified sustainable practices, the "Farm of the Future" initiative, and partnerships with organizations like the San Francisco Giants, which led to the first-ever MLB wine club. She also addresses current market challenges, such as shifts in consumer behavior and declining travel, and the organization's efforts to bring more consumer-facing events to the region. Additionally, Kruse touches on the concept of a Wine Improvement District, the current grape harvest, and the successful Leadership Academy program for vineyard employees.

 

Karissa Kruse, President and CEO of Sonoma County Winegrowers

 

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