“If you think of the wine and beer industries, many labels look the same — same shape, same back label, even similar websites,” Solis said. Many companies put craftsmanship above marketing, but the fact is that quality isn’t enough. “The word ‘brand’ means there’s something behind it that becomes relatable and shareable, and that takes some work,” he explained. “A great product is not going to be enjoyed if people don’t buy it and talk about it.”
(R)evolution Episode 3: Rick Bakas on Social Media, Wine and Engagement
Welcome to the third episode of (R)evolution, a new series that connects you to the people, trends, and ideas defining the future of business, marketing, and media. My guest this time around is Rick Bakas (@rickbakas) of Bakas Media, previously director of social media at St. Supery Winery in Napa Valley. Note: This is a live setting and there are a few spots where offscreen noise is a factor. Stay focused, Rick represents what’s going on in the front lines…
Dell Deals with Twitter
In March 2008, Gary Vaynerchuck experimented with @santagaryvee on Twitter where he would announce special Wine Library deals and opportunities exclusively for his loyal followers on the popular micro community. While he slowly phased that activity back into his main Twitter streams, many companies were introduced to a new way to engage and harness enthusiasm among those potentially interested in something new and special. Having contributed to the standard of listening and responding to users and pundits on Twitter, Dell…
Gary Vaynerchuk Puts the Social in Social Media
Shot at SXSW08 If there’s one person who personifies the words, “Internet Rock Star” or “Internet Famous,” there’s no need to look any further than Gary Vaynerchuk, host of WineLibraryTV. Gary is the epitome of the old adage, “If I can do it, anyone can do it.” Vaynerchuck’s passion, dedication, and perseverance has given way to success that has yet to reveal it’s full potential. He’s moving on up… The Web is fertile ground for those who can transcend its…
Livermore 25th Annual Harvest Wine Celebration
For those of you not going to Burning Man or spending the long weekend catching up on blog posts, consider heading up to wine country this holiday weekend. No, not that that wine country, the other one. I can’t even say that, there are way too many wine country regions around here, so I better be a bit more specific. Livermore Valley is hosting its annual Harvest Wine Celebration, and this one appears to be the grandest yet. Labor Day…
Going Sideways Over Pinot Days in SF This Weekend
Are you ready for mad crowds, broken glasses, drunken humor, long-long lines at the Porta Pottie, and of course, hundreds of wineries pouring their best Pinot Noir, all live in SF on Sunday, Sunday, SUNDAY! Coming at cha… Sunday’s Grand Tasting will showcase 150 producers of pinot noir from 1 – 4 p.m. at Fort Mason. This is the Bay Area’s largest single gathering of pinot producers ever. Yes it’s true, in a moment of temporary insanity, we will all…
