Come Over October: Reclaiming the Joy of Wine in a Changing World

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Dallas Wine Chick Turns 15: Uncorking the Memories

 

 

This month, an international marketing campaign, Come Over October, was launched to encourage individuals to raise a glass to celebrate community, friendship, and connection. This initiative aims to foster a sense of togetherness among wine lovers and promote the shared experience of enjoying a good bottle of wine in moderation.

 

 

Come Over October: Reclaiming the Joy of Wine in a Changing World
The Sad State of All or Nothing in Alcohol

 

 

The United States wine industry is struggling with a significant decline in consumption, with per capita rates in 2023 dropping to 2.68 gallons per resident—just above 2010 levels, according to the Wine Institute. This downturn is attributed to various factors, but a notable concern within the industry is the rise of the Neo-Prohibition movement, which promotes complete abstention from alcohol as a healthier choice. This approach has historical patterns of prohibitionist attitudes and has gained traction, especially with endorsements from organizations like the World Health Organization. Compounding these challenges is the diversification of the adult beverage market, where consumers now have access to an array of alternatives such as hard seltzers, flavored wines, and non-alcoholic spirits. As the wine industry navigates these obstacles, it must adapt its strategies to reconnect with younger consumers and address evolving preferences toward alcohol consumption.

 

 

Come Over October: Reclaiming the Joy of Wine in a Changing World
Karen, my seatmate during the Finger Lakes Wine Bloggers Conference back in 2015

 

 

In response to growing anti-alcohol sentiment and movements like Dry January and Sober October, renowned wine expert and Author of the Wine Bible, Karen MacNeil teamed up with PR Agency Founders, Gina Colangelo and Kimberly Charles to launch the campaign. It’s about sharing a glass of wine, in a social setting and making connections while practicing moderation.

 

It’s been exciting to witness the international response from the wine community. National wine retailers, individual wineries, wine advocacy groups and wine regions worldwide, along with importers and distributors, have all expressed their support through innovative initiatives. Everybody from the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Uncork Texas Wine Program’s “Come Over, Ya’ll” initiative which involves the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association, Texas Hill Country Wineries, Texas Wine Growers and Texas Fine Wine to The Champagne Bureau, who is inviting people to celebrate with bubbles and burgers, are participating.

 

 

Join me in Participating in Come Over October

 

 

The adoption of the “Come Over October” campaign across the global wine community signals a shift in how the industry approaches modern challenges. Rather than resisting change, this campaign embraces it, positioning wine as a facilitator of meaningful social interactions and moderate enjoyment.  Join me in celebrating wine and community this month.

 

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