Author Archives: COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.

Karen MacNeil to Keynote 2026 UC Davis / Harvard ‘Vine to Mind’ Symposium, Joined by Christine Wente and Michael Mondavi

Co-founder of COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine to anchor a conversation among three of America's leading voices in wine culture

ST. HELENA, Calif., May 13, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Karen MacNeil, wine authority, author of “The Wine Bible,” and co-founder of COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine, will deliver the opening keynote at the 2026 Vine to Mind Symposium, a joint initiative of the University of California, Davis and Harvard University, taking place May 19–20 on the UC Davis campus.

Photo caption: Karen MacNeil, author of “The Wine Bible,” and co-founder of COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine.

MacNeil will be joined by Christine Wente and Michael Mondavi, two figures whose family names have shaped the American wine story for generations. Together, the three will speak to the cultural standing of California wine today, and to the work of sustaining wine’s place in American life for the next generation.

That work is the animating purpose behind Come Together A Community for Wine, which MacNeil co-founded in 2024 with Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, of Charles Communications Associates and Gino Colangelo of Colangelo & Partners. In response to mounting headwinds facing the global wine industry, Come Together has built two of the largest pro-wine consumer campaigns in the United States: Share & Pair Sundays, now in its second year and running May 3 through June 28, and Come Over October, returning for the third year this fall.

“Wine is at a critical juncture in American culture, and we must rise to meet the challenges,” said MacNeil. “The Vine to Mind Symposium gives us—scientists and industry leaders alike–an opportunity to come together to explore a modern and practical approach to wine over the coming decades. Coming together on behalf of wine’s future underscores wine’s historic role as the beverage that has brought people together for 8000 years.”

The Vine to Mind Symposium convenes data scientists, scholars, and industry leaders to examine how data-driven insight and AI can advance viticulture, enology, and wine communications. Additional speakers include Orley Ashenfelter, Eric Asimov, Jing Cao, Felicity Carter, Joe Czerwinski, Xiao-Li Meng, Madeline Puckette, Liz Thach, Jason Wise, and Ben Montpetit. Sessions will be held at the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science, with a post-symposium visit to Napa Valley on May 21.

ABOUT THE VINE TO MIND SYMPOSIUM

The 2026 Vine to Mind Symposium is organized by the Harvard Data Science Initiative in partnership with the Agricultural and Resource Economics department and the Viticulture and Enology department at the University of California, Davis. The symposium brings together wine industry leaders and academics to explore the intersection of wine, wine communications, data science, and artificial intelligence, and how data-driven insights and AI can advance viticulture, enology, and the broader wine ecosystem. This year’s gathering also marks the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Judgment of Paris, widely considered the blind tasting that forever changed the cultural landscape for the California wine industry. The 2026 symposium will be held on the UC Davis campus May 19–20, 2026, with a post-symposium visit to Napa Valley on May 21. For topics, speakers, and past highlights, visit: https://www.vinetomind.org/.

About COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine

COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine is a dynamic community for wine enthusiasts dedicated to fostering connections, education, and appreciation within the wine world. Through innovative campaigns and community-driven initiatives, the organization brings together industry professionals, passionate consumers, and wine lovers of all backgrounds to celebrate wine’s unique ability to create meaningful human connections. Founded by noted wine writer and author Karen MacNeil, along with leading wine industry marketers Gino Colangelo of Colangelo & Partners and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET of Charles Communications Associates, the mission-driven company shares the story of wine’s historic and contemporary role as a beverage that uniquely brings people together. Learn more: https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET kcharles@charlescomm.com 415-701-WINE (9463)

Regan Carlin rcarlin@colangelopr.com 978-460-3921

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COME TOGETHER-A Community for Wine Inc. Launches Second Annual ‘Share & Pair Sundays’ Campaign

Nine Sundays of Wine, Food and Connection - Spanning Mother's Day, Father's Day and the Start of Summer - Spotlight Wine's Role in Easing the Loneliness Epidemic and Bringing People Together

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., April 30, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — COME TOGETHER—A Community for Wine Inc., the mission-driven company behind the Come Over October™ and Share & Pair Sundays™ wine advocacy campaigns, today announced the launch of the second annual Share & Pair Sundays campaign, running May 3 through June 28, 2026. Across nine consecutive Sundays, anchored by Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and the unofficial start of summer, the campaign invites consumers to gather around a table for the simple, time-honored ritual of sharing wine and food with the people they love.

Image caption: COME TOGETHER-A Community for Wine Inc. Launches Second Annual ‘Share & Pair Sundays’ Campaign.

“Last year proved that American wine drinkers are hungry for connection and for the kind of sharing that wine encourages,” said Karen MacNeil, co-founder of COME TOGETHER and author of The Wine Bible. “This year we’re building on that yearning. Sharing wine and food, as simple as that act can be, becomes a time of meaning, bringing friends and family together.”

A Cultural Response to the Loneliness Epidemic

The campaigns arrived at a moment when public health leaders were sounding alarms about social isolation. The U.S. Surgeon General has reported that roughly half of American adults experience loneliness, identifying it as a serious public health risk. The World Health Organization’s Commission on Social Connection estimates that around 16 percent of people worldwide experience loneliness and shares that high-quality social connection is essential to mental and physical health and well-being.

“Wine has been part of the human ritual of gathering for 8,000 years,” said Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, co-founder of COME TOGETHER and president of Charles Communications Associates. “Share & Pair Sundays is a simple invitation to reconnect, to carve out time, however that looks for you, to share a meal, a bottle, and a moment of presence. It’s about making space for real connection in a way that feels natural, not prescribed.”

A particular focus this year is making participation feel truly accessible. Share & Pair Sundays is designed so anyone can take part, whether it’s a dinner at home, a night out a restaurant, or causally standing around the kitchen counter with friends. The campaign encourages participation in whatever way feels natural, offering approachable recipes and pairing ideas that remove friction and make gathering seem simple. The goal isn’t to define what connection should feel like, but to remind people that it’s always within reach, and that wine, at its best, is something we share.

Building on a Movement

Together, Come Over October and Share & Pair Sundays have generated 2.6 billion media impressions, 1,315 published articles, a journalist reach of 1.29 million, over 5.6 million social media impressions and activations across more than 1,400 retail locations. The campaigns have also benefited from over $150,000 in donated media value contributed by leading wine publications.

This year’s activations are already showing the breadth and creativity of the wine community’s response. As detailed in a recent feature in Wine Industry Advisor, businesses across the country are interpreting the campaign in their own way: Idle Hour, an inn, restaurant and winery in Oakhurst, California near Yosemite, is using its monthly Supper Club to bring isolated locals together around shared, family-style meals; Cork & Keg Tours is curating intimate Sunday wine excursions through Loudoun County, Virginia; and Long Island Wine Country has launched a Blanc & Franc Brunch Series pairing North Fork sauvignon blanc and cabernet franc with menus from regional chefs.

“Whether it’s a backyard tailgate, a neighborhood potluck or a Sunday supper, the format doesn’t matter, the connection does,” added Gino Colangelo, co-founder of COME TOGETHER and president of Colangelo & Partners. “Our 2026 goal is to grow consumer reach by 50 percent, deepen retail and restaurant engagement and bring even more international participation into the movement.”

Sponsors and Resources

Foundational partners of COME TOGETHER – A Community for Wine include Jackson Family Wines and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Benefactor partners include WineAmerica and Local Wine Events. Lyft, RedChirp and Yelp are preferred partners while media sponsors include Wine Enthusiast, Tasting Panel, Somm Journal, Wine Folly, VinePair, Wine Industry Network and Wine Business Monthly.

Free downloadable assets, pairing guides, recipes and host tools are available at https://www.shareandpairsundays.com/.

Wine producers, retailers, restaurants, importers, wholesalers and hospitality partners interested in joining the campaign can contact Program Director Barbara Fitzgerald at barbara@cometogetherforwine.com.

Media Contacts:

Karen MacNeil, karen@karenmacneil.com

Kimberly Noelle Charles, kcharles@charlescomm.com

Gino Colangelo, gcolangelo@colangelopr.com

About COME TOGETHER—A Community for Wine Inc.

COME TOGETHER—A Community for Wine Inc. is the mission-driven company behind the Come Over October and Share & Pair Sundays wine advocacy campaigns. Founded in 2024 by noted wine writer and author Karen MacNeil, along with leading wine industry marketers Gino Colangelo of Colangelo & Partners and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET of Charles Communications Associates, the company shares the story of wine’s historic and contemporary role as a beverage that uniquely brings people together. To learn more, visit https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/.

NEWS SOURCE: COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.

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WineAmerica Proudly Sponsors 2025 Come Over October Congressional Wine Caucus Press Conference and Reception

Second-Year Sponsorship Highlights American Wine Industry's Economic Impact and Community Building Mission

WASHINGTON, D.C., Sept. 3, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — WineAmerica, the National Association of American Wineries, announced today its proud sponsorship of the 2025 Come Over October Congressional Wine Caucus press conference and reception, taking place on October 8 in Washington, D.C. This marks the second consecutive year WineAmerica has supported this important invitation-only industry event, demonstrating the organization’s continued commitment to fostering bipartisan support for America’s burgeoning wine industry.

Image caption: WineAmerica Proudly Sponsors 2025 Come Over October Congressional Wine Caucus Press Conference and Reception.

The reception will showcase wines from across many states, celebrating the breadth, diversity and quality of American wine production from coast to coast. This comprehensive representation underscores the truly national scope of the American wine industry, which now includes 10,637 wine producers operating in every state.

ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE SUPPORTING AMERICAN COMMUNITIES

WineAmerica’s sponsorship comes as new data from the organization’s 2025 Economic Impact Study reveals the extraordinary contribution of the wine industry to the American economy. The American wine industry generates close to $323.55 billion in total economic activity, supporting 1.75 million jobs nationwide with an average annual wage of $58,400 in wages and benefits.

The study highlights several key economic drivers:

Job Creation: The wine industry provides good jobs, paying an average of $58,400 in annual wages and benefits. The total wages generated by direct, indirect, and induced economic activity driven by the wine industry are $102.14 billion.
Tourism Impact: America’s “wine country” regions will generate 74 million tourist visits and $14.13 billion in annual tourism expenditures, benefiting local economies and tax bases.
Tax Revenue: The industry generates over $53.24 billion in federal, state, and local taxes ($46.04 billion in business taxes plus $7.20 billion in consumption taxes), providing crucial funding for public services and infrastructure.
Agricultural Preservation: The industry maintains 763,080 acres of vineyards, preserving agricultural land and supporting sustainable farming practices.

EARLY AND COMMITTED ADVOCACY PARTNER

WineAmerica has been an avid and early supporter of the Come Over October campaign since its inception. The organization recognizes the campaign’s vital role in building authentic connections within the wine community and promoting the social and cultural significance of wine in American life. WineAmerica President Jim Trezise shared, “Come Over October” is a perfect example of why the wine community is so special—people working together to advance the common good. In a challenging time for the wine industry, three top wine communication professionals pooled their creativity and volunteered their time to elevate the magic of wine on an international scale. We at WineAmerica were honored to play a supporting role by amplifying the message and hosting the Congressional wine reception toasting this collaborative spirit. Many thanks to Karen MacNeil, Kimberly Noelle Charles, and Gino Colangelo for bringing us all together. Cheers!

The Come Over October campaign has achieved remarkable success, with the 2024 inaugural initiative reaching an estimated 1.7 billion unique visitor impressions and engaging over 10 million people through diverse channels nationwide.

INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVES

The collaboration between WineAmerica and Come Over October represents a shared commitment to advancing American wine culture through authentic community building and advocacy. Come Over October’s co-founding team share their thoughts here:

“The American wine industry is based on a value system of generosity, connection, and respect for Nature. Wine is the ultimate authentic beverage–a beverage that throughout history has inspired people to come together, creating new friendships and deepening old ones,” said Karen MacNeil, author of “The Wine Bible,” and co-founder of Come Over October.

“We are deeply grateful for the ongoing partnership with WineAmerica, who was among the first to put up their hand in support of the concept when we launched Come Over October in the spring of 2024. Their modus operandi is to collaborate, uplift and amplify which is what our beloved wine industry needs most and what our spirit represents with the campaign,” said Kimberly Noelle Charles, President of Charles Communications Associates and co-founder of Come Over October.

“Support from WineAmerica has been invaluable in helping us reach millions of Americans with positive messages about wine,’ said Gino Colangelo, president of Colangelo & Partners (www.colangelopr.com) and co-founder of the Come Over October campaign. ‘We share a common mission: To promote wine culture in the US, thereby supporting American wineries and encouraging moderate consumption of this most special beverage.”

CONTINUED INDUSTRY SUPPORT

Come Over October 2025 extends gratitude to its sponsors, whose support has been essential to the campaigns’ success. In addition to the sponsorship at the Benefactor level of this reception by WineAmerica, Foundational sponsors include: Freixenet Mionetto, J.Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Jackson Family Wines and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Benefactors include CMB Family of Wines, Constellation Brands, Joseph Phelps Vineyards, The Wine Group, Total Wine & More, and wine.com. Other financial sponsors include Boisset Collection, Crimson Wine Group, Far Niente Wine Estates, Napa Valley Vintners, Peju Napa Valley, Ponzi Vineyards, Rodney Strong, and Wilson Daniels. Media sponsors include: The Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, Tasting Panel, Somm Journal, Wine Business Monthly, VinePair, The Vintner Project, and Wine Industry Network.

For more information on how to become a supporter or advocate visit https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/support-the-movement/ To inquire further about the reception, contact info@comeoveroctober.com

ABOUT WINEAMERICA

WineAmerica, the National Association of American Wineries, is the voice of America’s wine industry. Founded in 1978, WineAmerica represents wineries in all 50 states on legislative and regulatory issues at the federal level. The organization works to advance the business environment for American wineries through advocacy, education, and promotion of the economic and cultural contributions of the wine industry to American society.

ABOUT COME TOGETHER – A COMMUNITY FOR WINE

COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine is a dynamic community for wine enthusiasts dedicated to fostering connections, education, and appreciation within the wine world. Through innovative campaigns and community-driven initiatives, the organization brings together industry professionals, passionate consumers, and wine lovers of all backgrounds to celebrate wine’s unique ability to create meaningful human connections. Founded by noted wine writer and author Karen MacNeil, along with leading wine industry marketers Gino Colangelo of Colangelo & Partners and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET of Charles Communications Associates, the mission-driven company shares the story of wine’s historic and contemporary role as a beverage that uniquely brings people together.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

WineAmerica:

Jim Trezise, President WineAmerica jimtrezise@wineamerica.org

Come Over October:

Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET
kcharles@charlescomm.com
415-701-WINE (9463)

Gino Colangelo
gcolangelo@colangelopr.com
646-403-0146

For more information about Come Over October, visit https://www.comeoveroctober.com/.

NEWS SOURCE: COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/wineamerica-proudly-sponsors-2025-come-over-october-congressional-wine-caucus-press-conference-and-reception/

‘COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine’ Announces Second Annual ‘Come Over October’ Campaign

Building on Record-Breaking 2024 Success, Initiative Prepares to Expand Wine Community Connections Nationwide - and Internationally

ST. HELENA, Calif., July 24, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine today announced that planning is underway for its highly anticipated second annual “Come Over October” campaign, building on the extraordinary success of 2024’s inaugural initiative. The community-driven wine platform continues to demonstrate the power of authentic connection through wine appreciation, preparing to expand its reach and impact even further this fall.

Image caption: Karen MacNeil and Winemaker Alecia Moore (stage name Pink).

2024 CAMPAIGN ACHIEVES UNPRECEDENTED SUCCESS

The inaugural Come Over October campaign delivered remarkable results across all metrics, reaching an estimated 1.7 billion unique visitor impressions (UVMs) and engaging over 10 million people through diverse channels. The campaign generated significant momentum with 4 million social media impressions through patron and friend networks, reached 1 million consumers through in-store traffic across 900+ retail locations including Total Wine and Kroger, and achieved 3 million advertising impressions through features in Wine Enthusiast, Tasting Panel Magazine, SOMM Journal, VinePair, Wine Folly, and other leading publications.

SPRING SUCCESS BUILDS MOMENTUM FOR FALL

Following the success of Come Over October 2024, COME TOGETHER’s 2025 Share & Pair Sundays spring campaign achieved additional milestones, generating over 122 million unique visitor impressions from 300+ media articles, reaching 4.5 million consumers through in-store activations across 500+ retail locations in 43 designated market areas, and creating 89,000+ social media impressions.

TEN WAYS TO COME OVER OCTOBER

The 2025 campaign will feature ten curated suggestions for bringing people together through wine, including:
Game Day gatherings with wine and snacks
Best Friend nights centered around cooking dinner together
Neighborhood Potlucks that build community connections,
Leaves Changing Color celebrations with white, red and rosé tastings after autumn walks
At-home wine tasting parties for old and new friends
Wine Book Club gatherings that combine reading with regional wine exploration
Renewed Sunday Supper traditions
End of October costume parties featuring bewitching wines
TGIF Wine and Cheese gatherings after work
Love Your Local Winery visits to support the wineries in all 50 states.

ALECIA MOORE (STAGE NAME PINK) HIGHLIGHTS WINE’S HUMAN CONNECTION

The campaign will feature a video from a recent exclusive interview with winemaker Alecia Moore, (stage name Pink), who eloquently articulates wine’s power to foster meaningful human connection. “When you open a bottle of wine, you open a conversation,” Moore shared. “You get to learn where someone is from, what their favorite childhood memories might be, what their favorite scent is and why, when they had their first heartbreak. We bond over these stories.”

Moore’s perspective resonates particularly strongly in today’s increasingly digital world: “The more and more that we disconnect through devices and tuning out, the more we will see that our souls will be hungry for connection.” She emphasizes wine’s unique role in fostering authentic relationships, noting that “Wine is a very human experience. We need to inject more humanity back in the world.”

See Alecia’s recent interview with Karen MacNeil here (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RV_rTnx8to4

INDUSTRY LEADERS CHAMPION COMMUNITY CONNECTION

The campaign’s founders continue to champion the initiative’s core mission of building authentic wine communities.

“The inspiration for these campaigns comes from a simple but powerful belief: wine is meant to bring people together,” said Karen MacNeil, acclaimed wine author and co-founder of COME TOGETHER. “When we create spaces for authentic connection around wine, we’re not just sharing bottles – we’re connecting communities, cultures, and perspectives. That’s the true spirit driving everything we do.”

Gino Colangelo of Colangelo & Partners emphasized the broad industry support driving the initiative’s success: “The level of industry support we’ve witnessed has been truly remarkable. From small family wineries to major industry players, everyone understands that fostering genuine community with wine drinkers benefits us all. This isn’t just about marketing; it’s about strengthening the entire wine ecosystem through community-building and authentic connections.”

Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET of Charles Communications Associates, highlighted the campaign’s unprecedented reach and resonance: “What we’re seeing is unprecedented reach and resonance across all segments of the wine world. We’re narrowing the gap between industry insiders and passionate consumers in ways that create lasting value for everyone involved. The response from trade professionals has been overwhelming, but equally exciting is how these initiatives are connecting with everyday wine enthusiasts through everything from intimate winery experiences to major retail activations.”

FALL PLANS

The Come Together team is planning on hosting press conferences this fall in New York City and Washington DC. In a nod to the international reach of this movement, this year, the country of Canada, through Wine Growers Canada, will be executing a countrywide Come Over October program.

CONTINUED INDUSTRY SUPPORT

Come Over October 2025 extends gratitude to its sponsors, whose support has been essential to the campaigns’ success. Foundational sponsors include: Freixenet Mionetto, J.Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Jackson Family Wines and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Benefactors include CMB Family of Wines, Constellation Brands, Joseph Phelps Vineyards, The Wine Group and Total Wine & More and wine.com. Sponsors include Boisset Collection, Crimson Wine Group, Far Niente Wine Estates, Napa Valley Vintners, Peju Napa Valley, Ponzi Vineyards, Rodney Strong, Wilson Daniels and WineAmerica. Media sponsors include: The Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, Tasting Panel, Somm Journal, Wine Business Monthly, VinePair, The Vintner Project, and Wine Industry Network.

For more information on how to become a supporter or advocate visit here: https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/support-the-movement/

ABOUT COME TOGETHER — A COMMUNITY FOR WINE

For more information about Come Over October, visit https://www.comeoveroctober.com/.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Gino Colangelo
gcolangelo@colangelopr.com
646-403-0146

Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET
kcharles@charlescomm.com
415-701-WINE (9463)

MULTIMEDIA:

IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/25-0724-s2p-karen-alecia-300dpi.jpg

Image caption: Karen MacNeil and Winemaker Alecia Moore (stage name Pink).

NEWS SOURCE: COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/come-together-a-community-for-wine-announces-second-annual-come-over-october-campaign/

‘COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine’ Concludes Successful ‘Share & Pair Sundays’ Spring Campaign: Announces Second Annual ‘Come Over October’ Initiative

Community-driven wine platform builds consumer global awareness and industry support

HELENA, Calif., June 5, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — COME TOGETHER – A Community for Wine, a mission-driven company focused on wine advocacy, today announced the successful conclusion of its inaugural Share & Pair Sundays spring campaign while announcing plans for its highly anticipated second annual “Come Over October” campaign this fall. Through both initiatives, the organization, founded by three wine industry leaders, has demonstrated the power of community-driven advocacy to reach consumers with positive messages about wine.

Image caption: COME TOGETHER – A Community for Wine.

SPRING SUCCESS SETS STAGE FOR FALL GROWTH

The Share & Pair Sundays campaign achieved remarkable success throughout the spring season, generating over 122 million unique visitor impressions from 300+ media articles, reaching 4.5 million consumers through in-store activations across 500+ retail locations in 43 designated market areas, and creating 89,000+ social media impressions. The campaign brought together wine lovers nationwide, creating meaningful connections and shared experiences around wine appreciation through diverse activations ranging from winery events to retail partnerships. Building on this momentum, COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine is preparing to launch its second annual Come Over October campaign, which promises to expand the community’s reach and impact even further.

“The inspiration for these campaigns comes from a simple but powerful belief: wine is meant to bring people together,” said Karen MacNeil, reflecting on the campaign’s origins. “When we create spaces for authentic connection around wine, we’re not just sharing bottles – we’re connecting communities, cultures, and perspectives. That’s the true spirit driving everything we do.”

INDUSTRY SUPPORT FUELS COMMUNITY GROWTH

The campaigns have garnered significant support from across the wine industry, with sponsors and partners recognizing the value of community-centered initiatives. Notable participants included premier wineries such as Far Niente, PEJU Winery, and J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, retail partners such as Gary’s Wine & Marketplace and Kroger through Constellation Brands, and regional wine organizations including Paso Robles Wine Country and Texas Fine Wine among many others. This broad coalition has been instrumental in the organization’s ability to raise awareness on a global scale.

“The level of industry support we’ve witnessed has been truly remarkable,” noted Gino Colangelo, speaking to the broad coalition backing the initiatives. “From small family wineries to major industry players, everyone understands that fostering genuine wine communities with wine drinkers benefits us all. This isn’t just about marketing; it’s about strengthening the entire wine ecosystem through community and authentic connections.”

DEMONSTRATED SUCCESS ACROSS MULTIPLE CHANNELS

The Share & Pair Sundays campaign’s success was evident across diverse activation channels. Wineries like Peju Vineyards created dynamic 10-week culinary experiences featuring global flavors, while Far Niente Wine Estates aligned the campaign with their signature “Il Dolce Far Niente” philosophy. Retail partners achieved significant results, with Constellation Brands and Kroger delivering over 4.4 million impressions and receiving nearly $12,000 in bonus media value. Regional wine organizations including Paso Robles Wine Country and Texas Fine Wine amplified the message through podcasts and social media, while cultural collaborations with nationally notable figures such as Italian chef and PBS personality, Lidia Bastianich brought additional depth and authenticity to the campaign.

“What we’re seeing is unprecedented reach and resonance across all segments of the wine world,” explained Kimberly Noelle Charles, highlighting the campaigns’ broad appeal. “From over 122 million media impressions to 4.5 million in-store consumer touchpoints, we’re narrowing the gap between industry insiders and passionate consumers in ways that create lasting value for everyone involved. The response from trade professionals has been overwhelming, but equally exciting is how these initiatives are connecting with everyday wine enthusiasts through everything from intimate winery experiences to major retail activations.”

FALL PLANS INCLUDE HIGH-PROFILE EVENTS

COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine, has ambitious plans for the fall season, including a second Congressional Wine Caucus tasting, building on the success of previous legislative engagement efforts. The organization will also host press conferences in both New York City and Washington, D.C., to highlight the growing influence of community-driven wine advocacy.

These events underscore the organization’s commitment to elevating wine’s role in cultural and policy discussions while maintaining its grassroots community focus.

SPONSOR RECOGNITION AND SUPPORT

Come Together extends gratitude to its 2025 sponsors, whose support has been essential to the campaigns’ success. Foundational sponsors included: Freixenet Mionetto, J.Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Jackson Family Wines and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. Benefactors included: Constellation Brands, Joseph Phelps Vineyards, The Wine Group and Total Wine & More. Sponsors included: Crimson Wine Group, Far Niente Wine Estates, the Napa Valley Vintners, Peju Napa Valley and Ponzi Vineyards. Media sponsors included: The Wine Enthusiast, Tasting Panel, Somm Journal, Wine Business Monthly, VinePair and Wine Industry Network.

A complete listing of supporters can be found here: https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/patrons/.

For more information on continued support, please visit here: https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/support-the-movement/.

The combination of financial support and industry partnerships has enabled the organization to pursue its mission of building meaningful wine communities while raising significant awareness among consumers for wine culture and appreciation.

About COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine

MEDIA CONTACTS:

For further information please contact either Gino Colangelo gcolangelo@colangelopr.com 646-403-0146 or Kimberly Noelle Charles kcharles@charlescomm.com 415-701-WINE [9463]

NEWS SOURCE: COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/come-together-a-community-for-wine-concludes-successful-share-pair-sundays-spring-campaign-announces-second-annual-come-over-october-initiative/

COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine Inc. Launches ‘Share & Pair Sundays’ Campaign

Spring Campaign Celebrates the Union of Wine and Food, Building on Success of Come Over October

ST. HELENA, Calif., Feb. 10, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Following the tremendous success of the inaugural ‘Come Over October’ campaign, which reached over 1.7 billion media impressions and garnered coverage in major outlets including Forbes, NPR, and The Washington Post, COME TOGETHER—A Community for Wine Inc. announces the launch of Share & Pair Sundays, a Spring-to-Summer campaign celebrating the delicious marriage of wine and food. The new campaign also reinforces wine’s unique ability to bring people together, so successfully communicated in the Come Over October campaign.

Image caption: Share & Pair Sundays.

Running from March 23 through May 25, 2025, Share & Pair Sundays will encourage wine and food enthusiasts to gather weekly, fostering connections through shared culinary experiences. The campaign will span ten consecutive Sundays, beginning with the first Sunday of Spring.

“The resounding success of Come Over October demonstrated the wine community’s eagerness to create meaningful connections,” says Karen MacNeil, co-founder of COME TOGETHER. “Share & Pair Sundays extends this mission by celebrating how wine and food bring people together across cultures and traditions.”

The campaign will feature creative activations across multiple channels:

– Retail partnerships featuring in-store promotions and curated wine and food pairings

– Restaurant and hotel collaborations offering special Sunday wine dinner promotions

– Winery-hosted wine and food tastings

– Digital content including food pairing suggestions in DTC wine shipments

– Social media engagement featuring celebrity chefs, sports figures, and food influencers

– A vigorous Instagram Live campaign hosted by Karen MacNeil

A key focus of Share & Pair Sundays is broadening wine’s appeal through its association with diverse cultural foodways. The campaign will actively engage Hispanic, Asian, and Black communities, encouraging the sharing of traditional dishes paired with various wines.

The initiative has already garnered support from major industry players who recognize the importance of connecting wine with food culture. The campaign will be activated through multiple channels including print, digital, radio, and television media, with strong support from both the wine and hospitality industries.

“The Come Over October campaign demonstrated the power of unified messaging, reaching over 4 million people through social media and establishing presence in close to 1,000 retail stores,” notes Kimberly Noelle Charles, co-founder. “We’re excited to build on this momentum with Share & Pair Sundays, which celebrates the universal language of food and wine while fostering meaningful connections.”

A dedicated website, ShareandPairSundays.com, has launched and will evolve as the campaign unfolds, featuring pairing suggestions from leading chefs and wine professionals, along with resources for both consumers and trade partners.

The campaign has already received significant support from key industry players across various contribution tiers. Foundational Partners include Freixenet-Mionetto, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, and Jackson Family Wines. Benefactors include The Wine Group, Ponzi Vineyards, Crimson Wine Group and Peju Napa Valley. Champions of the initiative include M.S. Walker and Gary’s Wine & Marketplace, while Contributors include Tomorrow Cellars, Silicon Valley Bank, Dalla Terra, and Tor Napa Valley.

The campaign continues to welcome participation from all segments of the wine and food industries, from importers and wholesalers to restaurants and gourmet shops, winery associations and artisan producers. Interested parties can contribute through financial support, in-kind contributions, or by helping amplify the campaign’s message.

For more information about Share & Pair Sundays or to get involved, please visit https://shareandpairsundays.com/ or contact Project Manager Barbara Fitzgerald at barbara@cometogetherforwine.com.

For media queries, please reach out to Kimberly Noelle Charles kcharles@charlescomm.com or Gino Colangelo gcolangelo@colangelopr.com.

About COME TOGETHER—A Community for Wine Inc.

COME TOGETHER—A Community for Wine Inc. is a mission-driven company established in 2024 by wine journalist Karen MacNeil and communications specialists Kimberly Noelle Charles and Gino Colangelo. The company creates campaigns celebrating wine’s role in fostering community and connection. To learn more, visit https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/about-us/.

NEWS SOURCE: COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/come-together-a-community-for-wine-inc-launches-share-pair-sundays-campaign/

Inaugural Come Over October 2024 Campaign Gains Global Momentum

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Four months into the launch of the Come Over October inaugural campaign which encourages friends, family and colleagues to "come over" during the month of October to share wine and celebrate connection, the co-founders share that the wine industry and other supporters have helped raised over $100,000 in funding. Conceived by respected wine authority and author Karen MacNeil, together with wine industry communications professionals Gino Colangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, all of whom are working in a pro bono capacity, the team created COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc., to create campaigns and take a strong position on the relevance and significance of wine, historically and contemporarily.

Since its initial launch, the campaign has received financial and in-kind support from Total Wines & More, Jackson Family Wines, J.Lohr, Joseph Phelps, Lyft, VinePair, Wine Enthusiast, Somm Journal, The Tasting Panel, Napa Valley Vintners, Visit Napa Valley, Palm Bay International, Freixenet Mionetto, WineAmerica, Amici Cellars, Benchmark Wine Group, Dragonette, LXV, Silicon Valley Bank, Tomorrow Cellars, TOR Napa Valley, Willamette Valley Wineries Association, Wines of Sicilia DOC, Southern Wine & Spirits, Realm Cellars, Folio Fine Wine Partners and Walla Walla Valley Wine. More partners are joining daily, and the campaign has over 40 "Friends" who have either offered in kind services or joined as grassroots advocates. As of this writing the campaign is global, resonating with other major wine regions around the world who see the value in the mission and the message. Current supporters include Wines of Chile, Wines of Australia, the Champagne Bureau, New Zealand Wine and Wines of South Africa. Publishers including the Wine Enthusiast, SommJournal, Tasting Panel and VinePair have offered $50,000 in donated advertising value, both print and digital.

MacNeil states, "We are living in trying times, and we all know that good company, good conversation, laughter, and conviviality contribute to an enhanced lifestyle. We want to encourage people to put down their devices and share in each other's company. Historically and socially, wine has often played a role in facilitating conversation, nurturing new friendships, and deepening old ones."

Over time, the wine industry in the United States has experienced ebbs and flows and has met numerous societal and generational challenges. But the industry has taken those challenges in stride, as wine has often been the preferred beverage when people gather. This is what Come Over October advocates--a chance to share stories, be together, celebrate an event or occasion--ostensibly, a chance to reconnect in a digital world.

Two press conferences have been held to date, one virtual and one in Napa Valley at Joseph Phelps Vineyards.

A press conference is slated for September 23rd in New York City at Corkbuzz, and September 25th in Washington DC in the Longworth Congressional Office Building including the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Wine Caucus, Representatives Mike Thompson (D-CA-4) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-4). The conference will be followed by a wine reception for Members of Congress and invited guests featuring wine from all fifty states hosted by WineAmerica, the national association of American wineries.

Wine lovers can also follow along on Instagram @comeoveroctober or by following #comeoveroctober.

For the Trade

For the trade, the Come Over October logo, messages and design assets can be used, free of charge, by wineries, wine companies of all types, wine retailers, restaurants and hotels, wine trade groups, and others who

support the positive role moderate wine consumption plays in culture and lifestyle. These are downloadable and accessible on the https://www.comeoveroctober.com/.

Ideas for promotion and amplification can be found on the website and here.

About COME TOGETHER-A Community for Wine Inc

COME TOGETHER-A Community for Wine Inc is a mission-driven company committed to creating and sharing positive, inclusive consumer information about moderate wine consumption and wine's historic role as a communal beverage.

The company was formed in May 2024 by three wine industry professionals who are donating their time and efforts to the company and its projects and events-wine journalist Karen MacNeil, and public relations and communications executives Gino Colangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, each of whom owns their own small business.

COME TOGETHER will launch media, digital, and live events and campaigns focusing on wine's unique and positive cultural role as a beverage that brings people together. The company's first campaign-Come Over October-will debut October 2024.

For more information about the Come Over October(tm) campaign and COME TOGETHER-A Community for Wine Inc, please visit https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/ or email Kimberly Noelle Charles at kcharles@charlescomm.com or Gino Colangelo at gcolangelo@colangelopr.com.

Four months into the launch of the Come Over October inaugural campaign which encourages friends, family and colleagues to "come over" during the month of October to share wine and celebrate connection, the co-founders share that the wine industry and other supporters have helped raised over $100,000 in funding. COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc., creates campaigns and take a strong position on the relevance and significance of wine, historically and contemporarily.

Related link: https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/

Come Over October 2024 Campaign Officially Announced

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Celebrating the role of wine as a communal and celebratory beverage both now and historically, the team behind COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc., announces the kickoff of their Come Over October campaign. Conceived by respected wine authority Karen MacNeil, together with wine industry communications professionals Gino Colangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, the campaign encourages friends, family, and colleagues to "come over" during the month of October to share wine and celebrate friendship.

Dubbed by TIME magazine as the "Missionary of the Vine," author of the definitive source, "The Wine Bible," Karen MacNeil states, "We are living in trying times, and we all know that good company, good conversation, laughter, and conviviality contribute to an enhanced lifestyle. We want to encourage people to put down their devices and share in each other's company. Historically and socially, wine has often played a role in facilitating conversation, nurturing new friendships, and deepening old ones."

Over time, the wine industry in the United States has experienced ebbs and flows and has met numerous societal and generational challenges. But the industry has taken those challenges in stride, as wine has often been the preferred beverage when people gather. To wit, recently, a restaurant in the most wine-centric town of Italy, Verona, called Il Condominio, offered its clientele a free bottle of wine if customers agreed to relinquish their phones for the period of a meal, so that they might get back to the art of conversation at the table.

This is what Come Over October advocates - a chance to share stories, be together, celebrate an event or occasion - ostensibly, a chance to reconnect in a digital world.

States Kimberly Noelle Charles, "I've always appreciated the power of technology to connect. The pandemic made that even more real, as we all connected to friends, loved ones and associates via virtual meetings or FaceTime. Despite that, we might have overlooked the true intimacy that comes with in-person connection, and sharing wine is a great way to achieve that."

Launching to the media on July 9, 2024, the campaign has received early support from Wine America, Silicon Valley Bank, Napa Valley Vintners, Women For WineSense, Women of the Vine & Spirits, the National Association of Wine Retailers, Visit Napa Valley, Ridge Vineyards, Wine Enthusiast, Benchmark Wine Group and Buy Rite, among others.

Co-founder Gino Colangelo states, "Some people want to speak to the end of wine's relevancy in our lives but, over the decades, wine has always found its place in America. We are still a young country relative to wine producing regions in Europe, but wine has been woven into the tapestry of American culture since the founding of the nation. The team that founded COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc., has witnessed periods like this before, and we want to assure people that wine is here to stay."

The Come Over October website launches officially this July at ComeOverOctober.com and includes a list of events and ideas for fun ways to engage during the month of October. Wine lovers can also follow along on Instagram using @comeoveroctober or by following #comeoveroctober.

For the Trade

For the trade, the Come Over October logo, messages and design assets can be used, free of charge, by wineries, wine companies of all types, wine retailers, restaurants and hotels, wine trade groups, and others who support the positive role moderate wine consumption plays in culture and lifestyle. These will be downloadable and accessible on the website.

A press conference will be held on July 9 at 9 a.m. PDT. For more information, please contact info@comeoveroctober.com.

About COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc.:

COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc. is a mission-driven company committed to creating and sharing positive, inclusive consumer information about moderate wine consumption and wine's historic role as a communal beverage.

The company was formed in May 2024 by three wine industry professionals who are donating their time and efforts to the company and its projects and events-wine journalist Karen MacNeil, and public relations and communications executives Gino Colangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, each of whom owns their own small business.

COME TOGETHER will launch media, digital, and live events and campaigns focusing on wine's unique and positive cultural role as a beverage that brings people together. The company's first campaign - Come Over October - will debut October 2024.

For more information about the Come Over October campaign and COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc., please visit https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/ or email Kimberly Charles at kcharles@charlescomm.com or Gino Colangelo at gcolangelo@colangelopr.com.

MULTIMEDIA:

Image/logo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0626-s2p-comovoctober-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:

Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET

415-730-0064

info@comeoveroctober.com

Celebrating the role of wine as a communal and celebratory beverage both now and historically, the team behind COME TOGETHER - A Community for Wine Inc., announces the kickoff of their Come Over October campaign. Conceived by respected wine authority Karen MacNeil, together with wine industry communications professionals Gino Colangelo and Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET, the campaign encourages friends, family, and colleagues to "come over" during the month of October to share wine and celebrate friendship.

Related link: https://www.cometogetherforwine.com/