Even with their tasting rooms shuttered, wineries along the Wine Road found ways of giving back during tough times—tough for them and those around them.
Wine Purchases Translate to Needed Donations
Even before the shelter in place order, winery tasting rooms were told they needed to close their doors. A few days later, we were all told to stay home unless we worked in an essential service. Wineries classify as essential services, so even though you weren’t allow to visit them, you could still get wine.
Once closed to the public, wineries started giving shipping discounts and other offers. Most wineries also offered touchless curbside pick up (and still do!) This allowed wine lovers to keep their cellars stocked—a much appreciated aspect of staying sane, and a reminder that the acronym for shelter in place is SIP.
Giving Back During Tough Times
With the closure of businesses and the furloughing of many workers, our local food bank saw a dramatic increase in demand. Many nimble-minded vintners quickly figured out ways to contribute, even as their own businesses were impacted.
One example: Papapietro Perry Winery donated $2 to the Redwood Empire Food Bank for every bottle of wine purchased. On May 18th, co-owner Renae Perry presented the Redwood Empire Food Bank with a check for $6,000. A big thank you to everyone who made that happen!
You Give, You Get
Wine Road has been a big supporter of the Redwood Empire Food Bank for many years, donating a dollar for every event ticket sold. But in the past six months, the Wine Road has had to refund tickets for two major events, significantly reducing their donations to this food bank that’s so vital to our community.
Tough situations call for fresh approaches. The Wine Road came up with a way to allow wine lovers to donate to the Redwood Empire Food Bank directly. Donations can be in any amount that works for you. Here is a link to the donation page on Eventbrite.
Along with knowing their donations are feeding folks who need it most, donors who give $100 or more will also receive a beautiful picnic blanket, wine country coffee table book, and a custom Wine Road face mask. This thank you from the Wine Road is heartfelt, and will help you stay connected to everyone in Wine Country until you can return.
Parting Thoughts
To help you stay connected and find out the latest updates from the Wine Road, be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Sign up for their monthly newsletter. And, check the Wine Road’s Event page for special happenings and offerings.
This too shall pass, and one day visiting your favorite wineries along the Wine Road will happen again.
Happy Sipping!
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