The economy being what it is, I suppose that wineries might find themselves busier than most industries even if they weren’t being promoted by the City and their own Association.  We live in the Wine Country of Southern California, and three businesses that have to do with beverage not linked to wine and wine-growing were profiled in the county’s largest paper today, including ours.  The link follows: http://tinyurl.com/mu4hka

The Visitor’s Bureau also spends time and effort getting people to come visit the beautiful vineyards as well as our other major tourist attraction, Old Town.  However, hidden behind/among these two area pets are a number of entrepreneurial niche businesses that plug away virtually unnoticed or unsung by the powers that be.  Still, we are making progress.

This is not ‘sour grapes’ at all.  This is, in fact, an encouragement to anyone who wants some attention for their business and has a limited budget.  Some ideas we pursue are attempting to tie in, in some way, with the areas getting the big bucks and spotlight.  For us, that means inviting winery chefs to cup our teas.  Participating in a Women’s Club fundraiser by purchasing a booth in Old Town to showcase our teas.  Sending out releases to all area papers with any news that seems relevant.

And then there is just plain timing.   After all but giving up on attracting winery attention, a new customer walked through the door at closing time this past weekend and mentioned his girlfriend loved teas and he would have to bring her.  Oh….and she was also the marketing director of one of the most beautiful and famous winery resorts in our Valley.  Well, come on in!

On the subject of tea and wine:  They have similiarities as well; regional variations in flavor, great for use in dishes and with meals, and tea makes a fine palate cleanser for wine tasters.  It can, with its’ caffeine, help an overimbiber of wine tasting tours get over the effects.

Look out wineries–there are microbreweries, coffee roasters and tea blenders and brewers who want a little of the limelight for their passions as well.  And entrepreneurs with passion will never give up.  Never.  No never.