ExperiencesExperiences is a podcast about humans creating happy memories through their participation in the experience economy. Author: Experiences App
Experiences is a podcast about humans creating happy memories through their participation in the experience economy. We discuss how brick and mortar retail is changing rapidly, the clear winners in the experience economy, and visit with brands that are not just surviving, but thriving. Language: en Genres: Business, Education, Entrepreneurship Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
Listen Now...
Building Community Through Wine: Jennifer Halleck of Halleck Vineyard
Episode 6
Monday, 28 October, 2024
Building Community Through Wine: Jennifer Halleck of Halleck VineyardEpisode OverviewA conversation with Jennifer Halleck about the journey of building Halleck Vineyard, their approach to wine-making, and how they've built a thriving community around their wines.Key MomentsOrigin Story (1990-2000)Jennifer and Ross Halleck moved from Bay Area to Sebastopol in 1990Purchased 5 acres, but could only plant 1 acre due to forest coverageOne of the first vineyards in Sebastopol Hills area (Russian River Valley/Sonoma Coast)First harvest sold to Fred Scherer in 1999Won first place at Pinot Noir Summit with their first vintageBusiness EvolutionStarted in custom crush facility with Greg LaFolletteInitially focused on distribution and restaurantsPivoted to direct-to-consumer (DTC) during 2008 financial crisisBuilt early customer base through innovative marketing to San Francisco private schoolsCurrently produces 2,500 cases annuallyBusiness Model & StrategyUses custom crush facilities instead of owning winery infrastructurePrice range: $59-120 per bottleWine club ("Inner Circle") membership includes: 6 bottles twice per yearFree shipping on 6+ bottle ordersExclusive access to special events and tripsExperience-Based MarketingOffers vineyard tastings with education and local delicaciesPreviously hosted harvest parties where customers could participateConducts private tastings at customers' homes (12-20 people)Organizes exclusive wine club trips: African safarisEuropean wine toursAdventure activities (kayaking, scuba diving)Keys to SuccessFocus on personal connections with customersStrong emphasis on experiential marketingBuilding community through shared experiencesMaintaining high-quality standardsEffective SEO and online presenceNotable Quotes"Being part of the story makes it even better." - Jennifer Halleck on why vineyard visits are important"Ross' favorite line is the way to make a million dollars at a winery is to start with five million." - Jennifer Halleck cheeky comment on the reality of the wine industryAdvice for New EntrepreneursUnderstand it's a lifestyle business more than a profit centerJust take the leap - planning can only take you so farConsider getting formal education in winemaking if starting a wineryBuild experiences around your product once you have something to sellAbout Halleck VineyardLocation: Sebastopol Hills, Sonoma CountyWebsite: halleckvineyard.comSpecializes in: Pinot NoirKnown for: Small-batch, high-quality wines and exclusive wine experiencesAbout the Experiences AppExperiences app websiteThe Experiences App is a comprehensive platform designed for event hosts to seamlessly create, manage, and elevate memorable experiences. From cooking classes to crafting workshops, the app offers intuitive tools for organizing bookings, handling payments, and managing guest communication, ensuring that every detail is covered. Whether you’re a small business or a large event space, the Experiences App helps turn each gathering into a professionally managed, unforgettable occasion tailored to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction.