Bright Spot of the Week

Beltane Ranch, a small, working ranch and vineyard in Sonoma, California, is a perfect example of a business adapting to the present circumstances by finding an innovative way to stay in business, despite not being able to physically interact with customers.

“We’re trying to find new and different ways to connect with people and get them to experience what we do virtually,” says Lauren Benward, a fifth-generation family member and co-proprietor of the business.

One new offering is a virtual tasting. Wine lovers can purchase the Quarantine Shelter in Place Tasting Package, which includes four bottles of wine; a “Quarantine Strategy Guide” with notes about each wine; and a video call with the winemaker, the hospitality manager or the family (the package is $150, which includes shipping). “We’re jumping on these fun video conference calls and presenting the wines as we would if they came to the ranch and we got to serve it to them,” says Benward. “I think it’s a lot of fun, and it keeps us talking about wine and people are in the spirit.”

Cheers to you, Beltane Ranch! We raise our wine glasses to you!