Challenge

The owners of Benovia Winery were relative newcomers to the wine business, but were committed to producing top-quality wines and building a strong brand. While the company had an impressive collection of experienced industry veterans on their management team, it lacked the wine marketing expertise in brand building and the knowledge to communicate their message effectively. Because the client only released their wines twice a year, they needed a marketing and communications plan that would build consumer demand and increase their reputation among the trade year-round.

Solution

We provided strategic direction and counsel, drafted a comprehensive communications plan, and executed a Public Relations campaign to help the winery in all aspects of marketing their wines. This included elements of story creation, design work, media outreach, advertising, social media, and material development. It also included developing key messaging, recommending pricing models and distribution tactics, coordinating and managing events, and handling all areas of communications and social media marketing.

Outcome

With a strong foundation in place and the help of Balzac’s execution, the winery began a journey of recognition and growth. While we were working with them, reviews and articles were published in Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, Wine & Spirits, Sunset Magazine, New York Times, Santa Rosa Press Democrat, and many other blogs and newspapers. Today, they are recognized as one of the leading wineries in the Russian River Valley.