Latest news with #NoelBurgess
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
5 Sonoma County Wineries Where The Experience Rivals The Wine
Sonoma County Wineries are taking things up a notch, blending incredible wines with unforgettable experiences Noel Burgess When it comes to wine, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: it's no longer just about what's in the glass. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are reshaping the industry by prioritizing the overall experience. According to American Express Travel's 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, these groups value unique and immersive experiences over cost-cutting, influencing not just travel but industries like wine as County Wineries are rising to meet these expectations, placing experiences at the heart of their offerings and redefining what it means to enjoy wine. One of the longest-standing myths in the wine world is that young people don't have the money or the interest to spend on premium experiences. But this couldn't be further from the truth. Millennials and Gen Z are flocking to big-ticket events like Coachella, Formula 1 races, and major festivals, happily paying premium prices for exclusive, shareable moments. The Amex Travel report reveals that 79% of Millennials prioritize the right travel experience over cost, and 66% are willing to pay extra for upgrades. The issue isn't a lack of spending power, it's that traditional wine offerings often fail to captivate this demographic. For decades, wineries have leaned on tradition to attract visitors. While 'family-owned vintages' and 'special barrels' are important, they're no longer enough to capture the attention of younger drinkers. Millennials and Gen Z crave more than just a tasting, they want unique, personalized, and highly shareable experiences. This is where Sonoma wineries are setting themselves apart, going beyond the wine to create unforgettable moments. Let's talk about wine - not just sipping it, but experiencing it. These Sonoma County wineries are taking things up a notch, blending incredible wines with unforgettable experiences: Bubbles and breathtaking views? Yes, please. Gloria Ferrer is the ultimate sparkling wine destination, offering cellar tours, small-group workshops, and even a three course culinary experience. Want to take a guided vineyard walk or have your wedding in wine country? They've got you covered. Located in Sonoma, Gloria Ferrer is a true haven for bubble lovers. Gloria Ferrer Pro Tip: If you're looking for more than just a charcuterie board, Gloria's Champagne Brunch on the Vista Terrace is a must. Last time I was there, my friends and I got into a heated debate about the official start and end times of brunch. (10 a.m.–1 p.m., and I will die on this hill.) Either way, bubbles + views = the perfect weekend kickoff. Gary Farrell Winery Bring on the Pinot Noir and the best views in the Russian River Valley. Gary Farrell is where sophistication meets laid-back charm. This isn't the place for your '5 wineries in one day' crowd—slow down, take your time, and let the Estate Sommelier Gabe Brezic explain why your favorite Pinot pairs just as well with Hot Cheetos as it does with caviar. Located in Healdsburg, Gary Farrell Winery offers breathtaking views that rival the excellence of its wines. Gary Farrell Pro Tip: I like to end my wine day with booking a 1 p.m. tasting to give myself at least two hours to soak it all in. Sit under the outdoor canopy, savor the crisp Chardonnays, and let the day melt away. Perfect for unwinding before a solid pre-dinner nap. Fulcrum Wines Located in what I like to call "Wine-agon Alley" ( think charming European vibes, boutique shops, and friendly faces ), Fulcrum is all about connection. This boutique Sonoma Square winery offers intimate tastings, winemaker meet-and-greets, and fun events like mini-donut pairings. Located in the Sonoma Square, Fulcrum invites you to step into a tasting room where exceptional wines meet captivating art, creating an experience that delights the senses. Fulcrum Pro Tip: Sit outside at the tasting room entrance and soak up the Sonoma sunshine. Watching the hustle and bustle of the square while sipping is oddly therapeutic for me. St. Francis Winery & Vineyards This is where wine meets gourmet. From their epic 'Wine & Food Pairing' events to pedal-powered vineyard tours, St. Francis Winery & Vineyards knows how to elevate the tasting game. And their Executive Chef Peter Janiak? Absolute genius. Think seasonal, sustainable dishes designed to make their wines shine. Located in Santa Rose, St. Francis is more than just a winery, it's an destination. Blending fine dining with wine, it offers a perfect mix of flavor, excitement, and unforgettable moments.. St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Pro Tip: Don't skip the Tour de St. Francis, it's like a vineyard safari on wheels. Plus I've had worse ways to burn off my wine calories. Bonus points for the Insta-worthy moments. Gracianna Winery Warm, welcoming, and full of heart, Gracianna feels like visiting an old friend. Tastings are casual, intimate, and often come with a side of storytelling. If you're lucky, the owners, Trini and Lisa, might even whip up some Basque-inspired food for you at their house. Located in Healdsburg, Gracianna embodies the "Gift of Gratitude," offering wine lovers a heartfelt celebration of life's blessings and moments of thankfulness. Gracianna Winery Pro Tip: Ask Trini about his music industry days—his stories will blow your mind. If you stay on property, prepare for a cozy vineyard retreat you'll never want to leave. Why Experiences Matter Are Sonoma Wineries Leading the Charge on Experiences? According to Amex Travel, 68% of Millennials leave room for 'spontaneous adventures' ( aka good excuses to drink wine ). With food and dining experiences topping their wish list, these Sonoma wineries are nailing it. Great wine? Check. Great vibes? Double check. These spots aren't just about wineries, they are destinations, focused on creating moments worth remembering ( and capturing for social media ). It's time for wineries everywhere to take a page from Sonoma's playbook. Younger generations aren't abandoning wine; they're simply seeking experiences that match its sophistication and romance. By shifting the focus from tradition alone to include engaging, immersive interactions, the wine industry has a unique opportunity to grow with its new audience. Sonoma County Wineries are leading the way. The question is: who's ready to follow? And when you arrive remember to tell people 'We in Sonoma.' Cheers!
Forbes
23-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Colorado Wine Country: Top Places To Stay, Dine, And Sip
Rather than emulating Napa or Bordeaux, Colorado's wine industry is forging its own path, attracting a new generation of travelers and wine lovers. Noel Burgess Colorado may be renowned for its world-class skiing, stunning mountain landscapes, and craft beer scene, but its burgeoning wine industry is steadily earning recognition on the global stage. With over 170 wineries situated in high-altitude regions (4,000 feet and above), Colorado offers a truly distinctive terroir that produces wines like no other. Colorado Wine Country seamlessly blends elevated vineyards, farm-to-table dining, and accommodations ranging from charming boutique inns to luxurious wine lodges all infused with rich history and community spirit. At the center of Colorado's wine culture lies Grand Valley, which encompasses three main cities: Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade. Known for producing everything from Rhône-style reds to elegant Bordeaux blends, this region offers an authentic approach to winemaking. Rather than emulating Napa or Bordeaux, Colorado's wine industry is forging its own path, attracting a new generation of travelers and wine lovers. 'First, I'm a Colorado native. Colorado has a history of innovative thinking and doing things a bit differently. Imitation is so limiting, it puts you in a position of chasing someone else's story. Our mindset out of the gate was to be authentic in the wines and the style that we felt best represents Colorado. The land and the lifestyle are part of our story. We don't want to fit in, we want to stand out! I think today's consumer is looking for experiences like that and we serve it up every day not only in the wines we make, but in how we do business and support our community.' Kevin Webber, CEO Carboy Winery Reaching Colorado Wine Country is refreshingly easy and surprisingly convenient. Unlike other wine regions that require long drives, you can access this destination without the hassle of extended travel. Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), located just five miles from Palisade's nearest wineries. The airport offers direct flights to major cities such as Las Vegas, Phoenix, Dallas, Denver, and Orange County, CA. From there, travelers can connect to over 150 destinations worldwide, making it simple to plan your trip. Edwin Mocke and Shari Cahill owners of TWP Winery in Grand Valley, Colorado TWP Winery This stunning winery lodge combines impeccable design and warm hospitality, thanks to the expertise of founders Shari and Edwin. Guests can book individual rooms or the entire South African-inspired farmhouse for a private retreat. For an elevated experience, rent the entire property and enjoy exclusive tastings of Rhône varietals, paired with insights into the winemaking techniques that have earned TWP its outstanding reputation. Set amidst its own working vineyard, this Victorian-style inn offers a quintessential wine country getaway. Guests can stroll through the vines, sip estate-grown wines on the veranda, or join curated tasting packages and wine-pairing dinners, showcasing the best of Colorado's wine scene. Hotel Maverick (Grand Junction) Located on the Colorado Mesa University campus, this boutique hotel blends modern elegance with Grand Junction's adventurous spirit. High-end service is delivered by CMU hospitality students, and the location provides easy access to nearby wineries and top dining spots. Where to Dine in Colorado Wine Country Bin 707 Foodbar (Grand Junction) Led by James Beard Award finalist Chef Josh Niernberg, Bin 707 elevates local ingredients with innovative yet approachable dishes. The restaurant's Main Street location offers a dynamic atmosphere where thoughtfully curated wine pairings shine, making it a true culinary hub. Cafe Sol (Grand Junction) This cozy cafe champions fresh, sustainable ingredients sourced from local farms and wineries. Perfect for a casual lunch or sharable small plates, Cafe Sol pairs its dishes with curated wine selections for a truly local experience. Fine Dining in Palisade at Pêche Pêche Peche (Palisade) Peche combines farm-to-table elegance with a welcoming, laid-back vibe. Its seasonally inspired menu highlights the best of the Grand Valley and is a must-visit for foodies seeking a taste of the region. Must-Visit Wineries in Colorado Wine Country Colterris Wines Colterris specializes in crafting 100% estate-grown wines on its 200-acre sustainably managed property. Visitors are treated to panoramic vineyard views and a fascinating wine museum showcasing over 16,000 artifacts. Sip bold reds and crisp whites while soaking in the stunning landscape. Maison La Belle Vie Winery Meaning "House of Beautiful Life," this winery offers French-inspired blends, seasonal brunches, and famous gourmet charcuterie boards. It's the perfect stop for exceptional wines paired with warm hospitality. Despite beginning fairly recently, in 2016, Carboy is the largest by production Colorado wine producer. They have locations in both Denver and Colorado's Western Slope. Leo Sideras Carboy Winery As Colorado's largest wine producer, Carboy blends creativity with sustainability. With unique blends, a thriving wine club, and innovative concepts like Après at Govnr's Park, Carboy is redefining Colorado's wine experience. Carlson Vineyards One of Colorado's winemaking pioneers, Carlson Vineyards is known for approachable wines and a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy their popular Cougar Run blend on the sunny patio while learning about Grand Valley's winemaking heritage. Started in 2019 by Winemaker Patric Matysiewski and Grapegrower Kaibab Sauvage, Sauvage Spectrum is 100% Colorado estate grown and bottled. Unapologetically proud to no mimick wines from other regions — Sauvage is developing grapes with the attention to produce the true taste of Colorado wines. Sauvage Spectrum Sauvage Spectrum Offering a modern twist on traditional winemaking, Sauvage Spectrum invites guests to create custom blends in its Blending Lab Experience. Their summer Bubbles Brunches, featuring mimosas, DJs, and creative bites, are a lively celebration not to be missed. Vines 79 Wine Barn This family-run winery brings a touch of the Wild West to Colorado Wine Country with cowboy-themed tastings and award-winning wines. Its lively ambiance captures the energy of Colorado's wine culture. The Ordinary Fellow Founded by acclaimed winemaker Ben Parsons, this winery focuses on sustainable farming and classic French varietals. Its minimalist tasting room hosts culinary events and dinners celebrating local flavors. Enhance Your Colorado Wine Country Getaway Events and Festivals Palisade Peach Festival : Celebrate Colorado's iconic peaches with local food, wine, and music. : Celebrate Colorado's iconic peaches with local food, wine, and music. Colorado Mountain Winefest: Held annually in September, this festival features award-winning wines, chef demonstrations, and live entertainment. Tips for Visiting Colorado Wine Country Adjust to Altitude : Colorado's high elevations enhance wine flavors but can affect visitors. Stay hydrated, pace yourself, and pack sunscreen. : Colorado's high elevations enhance wine flavors but can affect visitors. Stay hydrated, pace yourself, and pack sunscreen. Best Time to Visit : Late summer and early fall offer lush vineyards, active festivals, and the excitement of harvest season. : Late summer and early fall offer lush vineyards, active festivals, and the excitement of harvest season. Plan Transportation : With distances between wineries, consider guided tours or bike rentals for a safe and stress-free experience. : With distances between wineries, consider guided tours or bike rentals for a safe and stress-free experience. Dress Casual: Colorado Wine Country embraces a laid-back, approachable vibe. No formal attire needed! So leave the three piece suit and top hat at home. Forbes Chef's Table Talk 2024: Choppin' It Up With Josh Niernberg By Noel Burgess
