Online wine tasting sessions have quickly become the norm and they're giving people the opportunity to connect with other wine and food lovers on a deeper level. Like many other wineries, Aperture Cellars in California has had to temporarily close its tasting rooms but it has pivoted to offer virtual wine tasting experiences.
One bespoke wine tasting package from Aperture Cellars comes with not just a demonstration from a winemaker via Zoom but also a cooking session led by a Michelin-starred chef. The tasting package comes with a 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2017 Bordeaux Red Blend and a 2019 Sauvignon Blanc and a portion of the proceeds from the package will be donated to support Corazón Healdsburg's Unity and Community fund.
Virtual Tasting Experiences
Aperture Cellars' Wine Tasting Comes with a Chef-Led Cooking Session
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Tasting Packages - Wineries and breweries are providing virtual tasting packages including more than just a demonstration or discussion, providing other experiences like cookeing sessions.
2. Sustainable Virtual Packaging - Sustainable packaging for virtual tasting experiences is becoming more relevant and desirable to reduce environmental waste.
3. AI-driven Personalized Pairing - Personalized pairing is becoming an available option, as AI-driven software identifies consumers' tastes, offers wine and food matches, creating a more personalized experience.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Wine - Wineries, breweries, and food distributors across the globe can adopt virtual tasting experiences, creating personalised tasting sessions in homes.
2. Technology - Virtual tasting experiences rely heavily on technology. Innovations like VR technology, e-commerce platforms, and advanced tasting software make such experiences possible
3. Sustainability - Sustainably aware consumers are more likely to invest in and appreciate eco-friendly, low-waste virtual tasting experiences, providing an opportunity to market them as a unique experience.