Local Industry Associations Efforts to Improve State Wine Tourism

With more than 90 wineries in the state, Pennsylvania's wine industry is growing fast! The state's 14,000 acres of grapes and wealth of passionate winemakers have helped it climb to 8th in the nation for the production of wine. Of course, the efforts of their local industry associations and legislatures have been critical in developing this favorable environment for wine tourism growth.

Taking a cue from New York and other wine-producing states, Pennsylvania wineries have organized themselves under a common marketing banner. They want to become tourist destinations. They have put together travel itineraries for visitors, outlining routes between wineries and listing all points of interest between. They are holding festivals, concerts and lectures. They are making wine a thing to do, not just to drink.

Tourism is an industry that almost always requires cooperation between a number of different business sectors and government entities. Local industry associations can be key drivers of this type of joint efforts.

For the last two-and-a-half years, Pennsylvania has been able to advertise its wines. Wine stores have been admitted into supermarkets and other convenient shopping areas. State store employees now receive training in wine and its evaluation.

The stores now have temperature-controlled wine rooms, and the liquor warehouses are similarly controlled. Wine competitions have sprung up throughout the state, including Philadelphia's own Star Wine Festival, which last year brought 75 of the world's best sommeliers to the Ritz-Carlton to judge more than 2,000 wines. Medalists in the Star competition receive placement in special wine racks at the state's 48 Premium Collection stores. At least 16 new supermarket and Premium Collection stores are planned this year.

Oklahoma wine industry organizations currently include both OGGWMA and the Lincoln County Grape Growers Association. If you are interested in boosting the industry, join up today. Many hands make light work!

Check out the source of the above quotes by reading the full article from the Philadelphia Business Journal: Pennsylvania wineries organize, boost marketing