KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – The Lake County Winegrape Commission is planning a marketing workshop to assist winegrape growers to succeed with sales and promotional campaigns.

The session is scheduled for March 18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Robinson Rancheria Resort, 1545 E. Highway 20, Nice.

All winegrape growers are urged to attend, says Commission President Shannon Gunier.

As part of its own marketing efforts, the commission has developed its campaign entitled “Lake County Rising,” touting Lake County's growing reputation as a world-class winegrape and wine-producing area.

According to Gunier, the campaign is designed to reach winegrape buyers, winemakers, retailers, distributors, consumers and others connected to the wine industry.

“It seeks to inform the target audiences about the great story we have to tell, coupled with our compelling terroir, our excellent quality at a competitive price, and our terrific group of dedicated growers determined to raise the region's profile,” said Gunier.

The “Lake County Rising” talking points and messaging will be among the topics covered during the upcoming workshop. It will cover the current state of the industry and present tools and strategies for effectively moving forward in 2011, according to Gunier.

There will be training and informational sessions focused on marketing tools and resources, instruction and tips on social and traditional media, and a presentation on the evolving winegrape market including out-of-state markets.

Growers also will have opportunities to interact with peers and industry professionals.

Individuals interested in attending the workshop are asked to RSVP by calling the commission office, 707-995-3421, or sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The fee is $25.

The workshop will include a continental breakfast, lunch, and wine reception. Attendees will receive a comprehensive marketing workbook.

“The timing of the new campaign is critical, as Lake County has been gaining notoriety in the wine media, at competitions and with consumers,” said Gunier. “For example, the Red Hills AVA was just cited as one of 12 'Next Great Wine Regions' in Food & Wine Magazine. Lake County's wine industry has also been featured recently in publications such as the Wine Spectator and Decanter magazines.”

Lake County is poised to take advantage of marketing opportunities, said Gunier, and the commission wants to help local growers succeed in their own campaigns. Lake County winegrapes are ideal for current market price points, she noted, adding that the region's high-altitude farming and sustainable winegrape production also bode well as selling points.

For additional information about the commission and upcoming events, visit the Web site, www.lakecountywinegrape.org.

For Lake County Winegrape Growers' Talking Points, downloadable presentations and regional profiles available online, visit www.lakecountywinegrape.org/newsroom/talking.php.

A video on “Lake County Rising” is available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=IM6Q6haxGro.