The Drink Technology Blog

Four New Live Event Formats Offer Multiple Opportunities For Brands to Connect With Over 15,000 Consumers

Online Social Network www.winetwo.net Surpasses 1,700 Members In First 60 Days

San Francisco, CA (PRNEWSWIRE) December 9, 2008 – Wine 2.0, the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry, today announced its 2009 schedule and four new event formats.  The four new event formats offer participating companies and wineries more opportunities to connect with consumers and wine trade in many of the top U.S. markets. Wine 2.0 has scheduled 15 major events throughout the U.S. in 2009.

“In today’s difficult economic environment, Wine 2.0’s mission is more important than ever: To connect brands and consumers in exciting new ways.  Ramping up Wine 2.0 is the right thing to do, to drive business for our winery partners, service providers and trade”, Said J. Smoke Wallin, Chairman, Wine 2.0.  He continued, “While the on-premise business is very tough now, and consumers are not taking as many trips to wine country to buy at the winery, Wine 2.0 brings the wine country to consumers. This should be an important part of every winery’s brand plan for 2009.”

The New Wine 2.0 Event Formats for 2009 are:

Wine 2.0 Expo: Provides a trade and consumer focused platform in a major trade show pavilion format. Wine 2.0 Expo events are the perfect showcase for our partners to promote their new products or wine release to both the wine trade and 1,500 to 3,000+ consumers.

Wine 2.0 Experience:  Provides partnerships with 3^rd party consumer-facing events which offer our partners an established event with targeted demographic. Wine 2.0 Experience events target 250 – 1,500 consumers.

Wine 2.0 Business/Law School: Provides partnerships with top business and law schools to bring the wine world to active business and law school students and alumni. Each event offers an education and wine tasting component. Wine 2.0 Business/Law school events feature 250 – 1,000 people.

Wine 2.0 Reserve: Are more intimate events featuring select wineries and consumers. Reserve events will offer an education and wine tasting component and can be an ideal event format for major organizations interested in a unique turn-key event for clients, shareholders or employees.

“Wine 2.0 events represent the beginning of a whole new era in wine”, said Anthony Dias Blue, CEO, Blue Lifestyles at Wine 2.0 New York.

“The innovators in Web 2.0 and Wine 2.0 are changing the way that people interact, communicate and learn about products and purchase them in every industry.   Wine 2.0 is combining a social network with live events to reach out to these emerging consumer markets on a fun, educational and energetic platform.” Said Cornelius Geary, Founder and CEO, Wine 2.0

The 2009 Wine 2.0 Schedule includes two Wine 2.0 Expos, San Francisco and New York, eight Wine 2.0 Experiences around the US, at least four Wine 2.0 Business School Events and numerous Wine 2.0 Reserves.

Wine 2.0 has a limited number of Cornerstone “Whole Season” Sponsorships available in key product and service segments.  Contact Abdi Humphries at Abdi@winetwo.com for information on available sponsorship packages.

Wine 2.0 2009 Event Schedule

January 28-31 :  Wine 2.0 Experience at ZAP

February 5 :  Wine 2.0 @ Haas School of Business @ Crushpad, Berkeley, CA

March

11-13: Wine 2.0 Reserve – YPO Reserve @Young Presidents Organization Global Leadership Conference

 14:  Wine2.0 @ Miami Grad School TBD, South Beach, Miami, Florida

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Reserve – private event

April

2: Wine 2.0 Expo – Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Reserve, private event

May:

8: Wine 2.0 Experience – Wine & Wags @ The Westin, Georgia Humane Society; Atlanta, GA

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Reserve – private event

Date TBD: May: Wine 2.0 Business/Law School – private event, Palo Alto, CA

June

19: Wine 2.0 Experience – Sam’s Wine & Spirits, Chicago, IL

Date TBD: June: Wine 2.0 Reserve – private event

July

13-14: Wine 2.0 Reserve – @WITS End, Wine Industry Technology Symposium, Napa, CA

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Reserve Pinot Days; Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA

August:

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Reserve – private event

Date TBD:  Wine 2.0 Reserve New Releases Only -TBD

September

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Reserve – private event

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 Business/Law School, private event

October:

Date TBD: Wine 2.0 @ Business/Law School, private event

Date TBD:  Wine 2.0 Experience - TBD

November

9-10: Wine 2.0 Reserve – Green Wine Summit, Santa Rosa, CA

18: Wine 2.0 Expo –New York, NY

NOTE: This Calendar is subject to change based on changes to agreements and restrictions of market.  Wine 2.0 reserves the right to make changes to calendar at any time

Red Eye Outlaw is “Wild & Defiant”, while Red Eye Fire is “Red Hot & Sizzlin’”

Carmel, IN – October 2, 2008– Red Eye Texas Style Bloody Mary mixes announced today two incredible new Bloody Mary flavors available for distribution across the U.S.  Red Eye, a leading Bloody Mary brand in the Texas market, has an ever expanding presence and market share in markets throughout the U.S. Carmel, IN – October 2, 2008– Red Eye Texas Style Bloody Mary mixes announced today two incredible new Bloody Mary flavors available for distribution across the U.S.  Red Eye, a leading Bloody Mary brand in the Texas market, has an ever expanding presence and market share in markets throughout the U.S. 

The showdown has begun!  No Mr., Mrs., or even a Major can come, close cuz nothin’ compares to a Texas style Bloody Mary.  Born in a chuck wagon during a cattle drive, Cookie (the cook) spiced it with peppers harvested along the side of well-travelled trails.  Tired cowhands relished the sight and taste of this delicious, thick spicy tomato offering.

Red Eye New Flavors Now Available:

About “Outlaw”
“Outlaw” is the rebel among the Red Eye family.  Always living on the edge, Outlaw combines the flavor of Horseradish with the long slow build of Habanero.  Outlaw is always looking for a fight and has been through quite a few, not unscathed, as evidenced by the bullet holes on the label.  Take Outlaw for a ride and just for a time, live wild and defiantly.

About “Fire”
Not since Gollum led Frodo into the darkest depths of Mordor has there been a fiery liquid such as Red Eye “Fire”.  This is not for the meek. There are flames on the label for a reason.  Do not buy this flavor if you have an aversion to fiery pain in your liquid consumption.

Enjoy All Six Flavors:
 

About Red Eye Blood Mary
Red Eye Bloody Mary mixes are made with the perfect combination of quality all-natural ingredients meeting our highest standards. As incredible as it may seem, even though Red Eye Bloody Mary mix is sold throughout the country, it is still cooked in 300 gallon kettles and continues to be made with the same tender, loving care as back on the trail. Red Eye has been a boutique operation since before there were boutique operations.  Visit our website to see what people are saying about us and to find out more about the entire Red Eye line at www.redeyebrand.com.

2007 Winner Crushpad Received $9 Million Investment, Credited Wine 2.0 Business Plan Competition With Providing Added Exposure 

To Investment Community. This Year’s Competition Expects To Partner With Investment Group To Sponsor 2008 Competition With $250K Seed Round Funding To Winning Company. 

Link to the Press Release out today.

http://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/taliera-texas-brands-relaunches-red-eye-texas-style-bloody-mary-mix-across-the-us-67671.php 

Red Eye Ready For A Shoot-Out Anytime, Anywhere!
Carmel, IN – October 2, 2008– Red Eye Texas Style Bloody Mary announced today new premium packaging available for distribution across the U.S.  Red Eye is a leading Bloody Mary brand in the Texas market, with a growing presence in markets throughout the U.S. 

 The showdown has begun!  No Mr., Mrs., or even a Major can come close cuz nothin’ compares to a Texas Bloody Mary.  Born in a chuck wagon during a cattle drive, Cookie (the cook) spiced it with peppers harvested along the side of well-travelled trails.  Tired cowhands relished the sight of this delicious, thick spicy tomato offering.
Red Eye New Packaging Now Available:

 

www.redeyebrand.com

Today Red Eye’s master kettle keeper continues the tradition by using more tomatoes than any other mix and seasoning it like only a true Texan can.  After one sip, you’ll taste the difference and know why Red Eye makes a Bloody Mary that kicks the flavor up a notch.  Our big Texas taste beats all the rest! 
A Red Eye Bloody Mary

 

About Red Eye Blood Mary
Red Eye Bloody Mary mix is made with the perfect combination of quality all-natural ingredients meeting our highest standards. As incredible as it may seem, Red Eye Bloody Mary is sold throughout the country, but is still cooked in 300 gallon kettles and continues to be made with “tender, loving care”, just like on the trail, placing Red Eye in the category of a boutique operation.  Visit our website to see what people are saying about us and read more about Red Eye at www.redeyebrand.com.

Carmel, IN – October 2, 2008– Taliera Texas Brands, LLC announced today that it has re-launched Red Eye Bloody Mary across the U.S.  Red Eye is a leading Bloody Mary brand in the Texas market with a growing presence in markets throughout the U.S.   
 “This re-launch of the Red Eye brand is our first step in creating value for our shareholders, our customers, and our team,” said J.

Smoke Wallin, CEO of Taliera Holdings.   “Red Eye’s new premium brand packaging represents our first major move since acquiring Red Eye in March.  Our strategy is to provide our brand with the marketing support and senior level attention necessary to enhance its market position, leverage our industry relationships to expand its distribution, and successfully launch line extensions and new products.”
Red Eye New Packaging Now Available:

 
“We are very excited by the new premium Red Eye,” said Don Hammond, President of Taliera Texas Brands. “Red Eye has been a strong Texas brand for nearly 25 years and has had widespread success in select markets around the US.  Taliera has moved to activate this brand with the wine, spirits and beer distributors across the nation.”  Mr. Hammond, who began his career with P&G and Gallo and has extensive experience in both large spirits brand companies and wholesalers, continued, “When we looked closely at the Red Eye footprint, we realized it was being distributed in a handful of states, by some of the finest distributors in the industry, all of whom we know.  Red Eye simply needed focused sales and marketing support to gain additional distribution in national accounts, large retailers and control states.  This national re-launch is our first step in executing our plan.”
U.S. retail sales of gourmet, specialty and premium foods and beverages are growing at much faster rates than those of the overall food and beverage industry, surging 10.9% to $59.0 billion in 2007 and posting a compound annual growth rate of 11.1% for the 2003-2007 period.  Within the total cocktail mix business, industry estimates for market size are over $750 million annually.  The specialty, gourmet and all-natural segment of cocktail mixes is growing at significantly higher growth rates than the overall market.  With over 39 million gourmet consumers in the U.S. today, these trends are expected to continue for the next decade.
Red Eye Brand Bold and Sassy Bloody Mary Mix is a complete Bloody Mary Mix with natural ingredients.  It is handcrafted in small batch production.  Red Eye has a big Texas taste that beats all the rest.

“In these challenging economic times, the global beverage industry provides a safe haven for intelligent investment,” said Mr. Wallin.  “We believe tough market conditions create opportunities if you know where to look.  Red Eye is an example of this strategic worldview.”
About Taliera
Taliera is a company focused on acquiring and operating businesses and brands in the global beverage industry. Taliera’s team and partners have extensive experience in the global beverage alcohol and consumer packaged goods industries.  Red Eye is Taliera’s first brand acquisition and provides entry into the global beverage, specialty, natural and organic food markets.  www.taliera.com   
 

About Red Eye Blood Mary
Red Eye Bloody Mary Mix is made in Texas with the perfect combination of quality, all-natural ingredients and the highest standards. As incredible as it may seem, Red Eye Bloody Mary is sold throughout the country, but is still made in the 300 gallon kettles used when it was first created in 1985. Made with “tender loving care,” this unique quality controlled process places Red Eye in the category of a boutique operation. www.redeyebrand.com 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_UNrA-EQ-E

New Wine 2.0 Social Network Has Consumer And Wine Trade Members From Over 30 Countries And Connects Members With Leading Edge Wine Lovers And Brands
New York, NY (PRNEWSWIRE) September 16, 2008 – Wine 2.0, the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry, announces a partnership with Ning, the online service for creating, customizing and sharing your own Social Networks. Wine 2.0 has established the social network (www.winetwo.net) on the Ning platform and both companies will work to promote each other’s services to their respective communities. Wine 2.0 and Ning will jointly launch the new site at Wine 2.0 New York, September 18^th at Webster Hall.

As part of the relationship, Wine 2.0 will work with its wine industry partners and wineries to establish their company and employee profiles on the Wine 2.0 network and Ning will provide technical and promotional opportunities.”
“Wine 2.0 is exactly the type of organization we had in mind when we created Ning”, said Gina Bianchini, CEO of Ning.  “Wine 2.0 has great momentum bringing the next generation wine consumer together with thought leading wineries.  We are pleased Ning can play a role in providing the infrastructure for such an exciting endeavor.”

“We looked hard at all the available platforms in the market before choosing to go with Ning,” said J. Smoke Wallin, Wine 2.0 Chairman.  “Wine 2.0 is eventually going to have over a million wine consumers and wine industry people interacting on our platform.  Ning provides Wine 2.0 with a turn-key yet scalable application.” 

About Wine 2.0™ - “Blending the Line Between Wine & Technology”
Wine 2.0™ is the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry. With a focus on the next generation wine consumer, Wine 2.0 breaks down the barriers to learning about, experiencing, and enjoying wine.   Wine 2.0 events feature a rich diversity of world class wines and the newest generation of emerging technology companies, services and communication tools that are changing the world of wine.  (Get Social at www.winetwo.net)

About Ning
Ning is a platform for creating your own social networks for anything.  With over 460,000 social networks, and people in over 200 countries, Ning makes it possible for anyone to create their own social network for free in a few simple steps. Ning is privately held and based in Palo Alto, CA.  To give it a try, please visit http://www.ning.com

About Wine 2.0 New York
Wine 2.0 New York is presented by Webster Hall Digital & The Winetasting Network and will be held on September 18th at Webster Hall on the lower East side of Manhattan, and hosted by Wine Library TV star Gary Vaynerchuk, who will be live podcasting his show to thousands. Wine 2.0 New York, timed to coincide with the pre-eminent Web conference, Web 2.0 Expo, will again host over 1,400 wine and technology lovers in an exciting evening of world-class wines and cutting-edge Wine 2.0 start-up companies.
Tickets can be purchased at www.winetwo.com

New Film Addresses Unwarranted Attack On Merlot As Seen In Fictional Movie ‘Sideways’
 

‘Merlove’ includes Pro-Merlot interviews with celebrated winemakers including Jean Claude Berrouet of Chateau Petrus, Peter Mondavi Jr. of Charles Krug Winery and Larry Stone of Rubicon Estate

New York, NY (PRNEWSWIRE) September 15, 2008 – Wine 2.0, the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry, announces the Premiere and New York release of the documentary film Merlove at Wine 2.0 New York, September 18th at Webster Hall.
The new documentary film addresses the unwarranted and devastating impact on Merlot wines as witnessed after the release of the 2004 movie ‘Sideways’. In the movie, the fictional character ‘Miles’, played by actor Paul Giamatti slammed Merlot in preference to Pinot Noir, which led to a boom in Pinot Noir sales and a drastic reduction in Merlot sales.
‘Merlove’ will be showcased to over 1,000 wine and tech lovers and media at Wine 2.0 New York and supported on Wine 2.0’s new social network www.winetwo.net with a public fan page.
“Merlot has been limited somewhat by bad press, bad movies and people kind of thinking that the wine is no good–I’m trying to reverse that,” said Filmmaker Rudy McClain. “In doing that, what I also want to do is relay the message that all these wines are part of a family and that no single variety should be singled out as a good wine or bad wine.”
“We could not be more excited to host the New York premier of ‘Merlove’”, said J. Smoke Wallin, Chairman of Wine 2.0, he continued, “Wine 2.0 does not discriminate based on grape, age or lack of technology.  The ‘Merlove’ movie should cause everyone to take another look at this unfairly criticized varietal”
Rudy McClain, the Director and Filmmaker will be at Wine 2.0 New York to discuss the film and wine with attendees.  Media interviews are available, please direct inquiries to Bridget@courtesanwines.com or via cell (415) 713 – 5331.

About Wine 2.0™ - “Blending the Line Between Wine & Technology”
Wine 2.0™ is the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry. With a focus on the next generation wine consumer, Wine 2.0 breaks down the barriers to learning about, experiencing, and enjoying wine.   Wine 2.0 events feature a rich diversity of world class wines and the newest generation of emerging technology companies, services and communication tools that are changing the world of wine.  (Get Social at www.winetwo.net)
 

About Merlove
Merlove is a documentary film celebrating Merlot wine in response to the movie Sideways. Merlove will help you learn more about the wine, but it is your own experience that will guide your personal journey. The message of Merlove is that no single grape varietal should be singled out as superior or inferior to others. We want people to know that Merlot is ready to be loved again by all and remember that every vintage has a new story to tell. (www.merlove.com)
 

About Wine 2.0 New York
Wine 2.0 New York is presented by Webster Hall Digital & The Winetasting Network and will be held on September 18th at Webster Hall on the lower East side of Manhattan, and hosted by Wine Library TV star Gary Vaynerchuk, who will be live podcasting his show to thousands. Wine 2.0 New York, timed to coincide with the pre-eminent Web conference, Web 2.0 Expo, will again host over 1,400 wine and technology lovers in an exciting evening of world-class wines and cutting-edge Wine 2.0 start-up companies.
Tickets can be purchased at www.winetwo.com
 

Event Showcases Leading Edge Wine Brands That Are Using Technology To Market Their Wines Including Gold and Double Gold Medal Winning Wines From San Francisco International Wine Competition, America Uncorked, New Zealand Wine and Esprit du Monde

Tasting Wine Brands Include: Arger-Martucci Vineyards, Azamor, B Cellars, BlueRock Vineyards, Bodegas Luis Alegre, Bodega Otazu, Bouké, C. Donatiello Winery, Cambiata, Cameron Hughes Wine, Chateau St. Jean, Cornerstone Cellars, Cycles Gladiator, Darioush, Fantesca Estate, Faust, Flying Fish, Francis Ford Coppola Encyclopedia, Fulcrum Wines, Grant Street Vineyards, Hahn Estates, Highflyer Wines, Highlands, Luis Alegre, Magito, McFadden Family Estates, Meadowcroft, Michael David, Oriel Wines, Palm Bay International Wines, Poggio Verrano, Quinta da Pacheca Raymond, Rutherford Grove, Shannon Ridge, Six Masters, Snow Lake Vineyard, Sonoma Coast Vineyards, Spencer Roloson, St. Supéry, Swanson, Tres Sabores, Twisted Oak Winery, Veramonte, Watermill, Watershed, Yangarra Estate

New York, NY (PRNEWSWIRE) September 12, 2008 – Wine 2.0, the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry, announces the presenting Wine 2.0 wineries for its upcoming Wine 2.0 New York event on September 18 at Webster Hall.
Presenting Wine 2.0 wineries include:

Tasting Wine Brands Include: Arger-Martucci Vineyards, Azamor, B Cellars, BlueRock Vineyards, Bodegas Luis Alegre, Bodega Otazu, Bouké, C. Donatiello Winery, Cambiata, Cameron Hughes Wine, Chateau St. Jean, Cornerstone Cellars, Cycles Gladiator, Darioush, Fantesca Estate, Faust, Flying Fish, Francis Ford Coppola Encyclopedia, Fulcrum Wines, Grant Street Vineyards, Hahn Estates, Highflyer Wines, Highlands, Luis Alegre, Magito, McFadden Family Estates, Meadowcroft, Michael David, Oriel Wines, Palm Bay International Wines, Poggio Verrano, Quinta da Pacheca Raymond, Rutherford Grove, Shannon Ridge, Six Masters, Snow Lake Vineyard, Sonoma Coast Vineyards, Spencer Roloson, St. Supéry, Swanson, Tres Sabores, Twisted Oak Winery, Veramonte, Watermill, Watershed, Yangarra Estate

In addition to these innovative wine brands, select wines will be represented by San Francisco International Wine Competition, America Uncorked, New Zealand Wine and Esprit du Monde for a total of over 100 innovative and award winning wine brands in attendance at Wine 2.0 New York.  Presenting Wine 2.0 wineries are showcasing their latest vintages and award winning wines from all over the world and use the internet and other technologies as important marketing, sales and customer acquisition tools.
 

“Wine 2.0 offers Cameron Hughes Wines a great platform for interacting with a fantastic group of young, successful consumers who are seeking out the best wines and experiences.  Wine 2.0 has created a unique mix of live events and online networking that brings these consumers together with winemakers,” said Cameron Hughes, CEO of Cameron Hughes Wine.

Wine 2.0 New York
Wine 2.0 New York is presented by Webster Hall Digital & The Winetasting Network and will be held on September 18th at Webster Hall on the lower East side of Manhattan, and hosted by Wine Library TV star Gary Vaynerchuk, who will be live podcasting his show to thousands. Wine 2.0 New York has partnered with the pre-eminent Web conference, Web 2.0 Expo, which will again host over 1,000 wine and technology lovers in an exciting evening of world-class wines and cutting-edge Wine 2.0 start-up companies.
Although the VIP room is sold out, a limited number of General Admission and Reserve tickets can be purchased at www.winetwo.com

About Wine 2.0™ - “Blending the Line Between Wine & Technology”
Wine 2.0™ is the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry. With a focus on the next generation wine consumer, Wine 2.0 breaks down the barriers to learning about, experiencing, and enjoying wine.   Wine 2.0 events feature a rich diversity of world class wines and the newest generation of emerging technology companies, services and communication tools that are changing the world of wine.  (www.winetwo.net )
 

Double Gold Winners from the San Francisco International Wine Competition to Pour at the Wine 2.0 New York Reserve and VIP rooms

New York, NY (PRNEWSWIRE) September 2, 2008 – Wine 2.0 announces that Anthony Dias Blue and Blue Lifestyle have signed on as major event partners for Wine 2.0 New York joining The Wine Tasting Network, Web 2.0 Expo, Webster Hall Digital and Wine Library TV as major event sponsors.
A James Beard Foundation Award–winner, Anthony Dias Blue, is one of the most influential wine, food and lifestyle personalities in the United States. His work in various media is circulated to more than 30,000,000 global consumers each month. He can be found in print periodicals, on television and radio, in bookstores and in cyberspace.
Wine 2.0 New York, timed to coincide with the leading Web conference Web 2.0 Expo will again host over 1,000 wine and technology lovers in an exciting evening of world-class wines and cutting-edge Wine 2.0 startup companies.  Wine Library TV star Gary Vaynerchuk will host a live podcast of his show.
“Wine 2.0 New York, is the perfect venue for us to introduce the award winning wines from the San Francisco International Wine Competition” said Anthony Dias Blue.  He continued, “I have been in and around the wine industry for a long time, and Wine 2.0 is creating a whole new level of excitement among the next generation wine consumer.  I’m pleased to be a part of their Advisory Board and the New York event.”
Wine 2.0 represents the future of the wine industry with a consumer trade show and a networking group with online and real world components. Wine 2.0 events highlight leading edge tech companies focused on various wine categories including winery direct sales, online wine retailing, community driven wine ratings and online education and virtual wineries.  With a unique focus that blends both trade and consumer, Wine 2.0 has hosted over 2,000 wine trade and consumer advocates, and more than 150 wine focused technology companies and wineries at their first four events in San Francisco.  Online, Wine 2.0 has registered over 15,000+ wine consumer and technology enthusiasts interested in technology, wine and wine trade events from over 50 countries on their website at (www.winetwo.com).
J Smoke Wallin, Chairman of Wine 2.0 said, “Wine 2.0 is very pleased with our new partnership with Anthony Dias Blue.   Wine 2.0 loves to team up with world class groups like Andy’s as we serve as the connector between the wine trade and the next generation of wine consumer.”
About Wine 2.0™  “Blending The Line Between Wine And Technology”
Wine 2.0™ is the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry. Wine 2.0 focuses on the next generation wine consumer and breaks down the barriers to learning about, experiencing and enjoying wine.   Wine 2.0 events feature the newest generation of emerging technology companies, services and communication tools that are changing the world of wine.  (www.winetwo.com)
About Blue Lifestyle™
Blue Lifestyle is the home of James Beard Foundation Award–winner Anthony Dias Blue, one of the most influential wine, food and lifestyle personalities in the United States. His work in various media is circulated to more than 30,000,000 global consumers each month. He can be found in print periodicals, on television and radio, in bookstores and in cyberspace.
As a lifestyle consultant, Anthony Dias Blue is a highly sought-after commentator on wine and food, travel and hotels, sales and marketing, and leisure industry trends. Combining a winning personal style with a broad range of experience and authority, he has been honored with the prestigious Communicator of the Year award from the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London.
Anthony Dias Blue is the Executive Director of the San Francisco International Wine Competition, the largest and most influential wine judging event in the United States, and the Founding Director of its sister event, the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Wine Tasting Network, The Leading Winery Fulfillment Company Owned By 1-800-Flowers.com™, To Showcase Services And Newly Launched East Coast Distribution Facility For Wineries At September 18, 2008 Event.

New York, NY (PRNEWSWIRE) August 27, 2008 – Wine 2.0, the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry, announces that The Wine Tasting Network (WTN) has joined as Event Host sponsor for Wine 2.0 New York, joining Web 2.0 Expo, Webster Hall Digital and Wine Library TV as major event sponsors.

Wine 2.0 New York is presented by Webster Hall Digital & The Winetasting Network and will be held on September 18th at Webster Hall on the lower East side of Manhattan, and hosted by Wine Library TV star Gary Vaynerchuk, who will be live podcasting his show to thousands. Wine 2.0 New York, timed to coincide with the pre-eminent Web conference, Web 2.0 Expo, will again host over 1,400 wine and technology lovers in an exciting evening of world-class wines and cutting-edge Wine 2.0 start-up companies.

“Wine 2.0 New York, is the perfect venue to showcase our new East Coast distribution facility” said Chris Edwards, VP and General Manager of WTN.  He continued, “WTN’s services are providing leading edge fulfillment solutions to many of the world’s great wineries.  Wine 2.0 is all about connecting the next generation consumer with these great wines.”

Wine 2.0 represents the future of the wine industry with a consumer trade show and a networking group with online and real world components. Wine 2.0 events highlight leading edge tech companies focused on various wine categories, including winery direct sales, online wine retailing, community driven wine ratings and online education and virtual wineries.  With a unique focus that blends both trade and consumer, Wine 2.0 has hosted 1,000s of wine trade and consumer advocates, and more than 150 wine focused technology companies and wineries at their first four events in San Francisco.  Online, Wine 2.0 has registered over 15,000+ wine consumer and technology enthusiasts interested in technology, wine and wine trade events from over 50 countries on their website at http://www.winetwo.com/.

J Smoke Wallin, Chairman of Wine 2.0 said, “Wine 2.0 is very pleased with our new partnership with the Wine Tasting Network and their parent, 1-800-Flowers.com.   This is a perfect example of how Wine 2.0 serves as the connector between the wine trade and the next generation of wine consumer.”

About Wine 2.0™
Wine 2.0™ is the innovator in social networking and events in the wine industry. Wine 2.0 focuses on the next generation wine consumer and breaks down the barriers to learning about, experiencing and enjoying wine.   Wine 2.0 events feature the newest generation of emerging technology companies, services and communication tools that are changing the world of wine.  (http://www.winetwo.com/)About The Wine Tasting Network™

WTN Services™ is financially stable, pro-active, innovative and a recognized “best in class wine industry leader.” WTN Services™ applies its years of experience on a daily basis to ensure clients gain and maintain a competitive edge in the direct-to-consumer wine market. WTN Services™ provides clients with timely and reliable direct-to-consumer supply chain solutions through proactive account management, technology, key strategic partnerships and a bi-coastal warehousing network. WTN Services™ further partners with clients to anticipate needs and offer insight to take advantage of opportunities in an ever-changing industry. WTN works together with their clients in partnership for mutual success. Partnering to understand clients’ direct-to- consumer goals, WTN taps into over 19 years of direct-to-consumer wine sales experience, backed with years of fulfillment and logistics experience to offer economical bi-coastal fulfillment and marketing solutions.

WTN Services™, powered by 1800Flowers™ is the preferred fulfillment leader specializing in the winery and retail wine industry.

Surviving the Tech Tsunami

Published in Summer 2006 in Vanderbilt Business Magazine…

Here is some fantastic footage from our event last spring in San Francisco. 

 http://www.crushnet.com/cms/node/10442 

 Don’t miss Wine 2.0 New York @Webster Hall - September 18 during Web Expo 2.0.  It will be twice as big and a great event!

http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/southern-wine–spirits-america/story.aspx?guid=%7BD5FA53DA-BBC8-428A-941B-A3CB02EFBD0A%7D&dist=hppr 

It was only a matter of time, but the new combined company should do in excess of $11 billion annually.  The consolidation continues…

We had the opportunity to spend the weekend at the Beaver Creek Wine & Spirits Festival put on by Wine 2.0 Board member Anthony Dias Blue…. it was fantastic (and still is going on).  Here are a few shots from the event…

http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=51891&id=553556387

 More later…

http://www.flickr.com/photos/drinkman240/ 

I’m pleased to report as President of the Vanderbilt b-School Alumni Board, I have recently joined the Board of Visitors.  This is a highly respected group and I am privileged to work  with them as a strategic partner to the school.

http://www.owen.vanderbilt.edu/vanderbilt/About/owen-newsroom/press-releases/owen-school-adds-six-prominent-corporate-executives-to-its-board-of-visitors.cfm 

go to www.winetwo.com for Wine 2.0 New York Tickets Now.   Hope to see you there!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media contact:
Cornelius Geary
Founder, CEO
Wine 2.0™
Cornelius@winetwo.com
T: 415-596-1191
W: www.winetwo.com
WINE 2.0™ ANNOUNCES WINE 2.0 NEW YORK PRESENTED BY WEBSTER HALL DIGITAL, SEPTEMBER 18^TH, 2008
Wine 2.0 New York Hosted By WineLibrary.tv Star Gary Vaynerchuk
Event Features Cutting Edge Wine Industry Start-ups, Wineries From Around The World, And Over 1,000 Wine And Tech Lovers
New York, NY (PRNEWSWIRE) July 24, 2008 – Wine 2.0 announces Wine 2.0 New York Presented by Webster Hall Digital, will be held on September 18th at Webster Hall, and hosted by Wine Library TV (www.winelibrarytv.com) star Gary Vaynerchuk who will be live podcasting his show from the event. Wine 2.0 New York, is being held during the leading web conference Web 2.0 Expo.  Wine 2.0 will again host over 1,000 wine and technology lovers for an exciting evening of world-class wines and networking around cutting-edge Wine 2.0 startup companies.
Wine 2.0 represents the future of the wine industry with a consumer trade show and a networking group combining online social networking and real world components. Wine 2.0 events highlight leading edge tech companies focused on various wine categories including winery direct sales, online wine retailing, community driven wine ratings, online education and virtual wineries.  Wine 2.0 has hosted over 2,000 wine trade and consumer advocates, and more than 150 wine focused technology companies and wineries at their first four events.  Wine 2.0 has registered over 15,000 wine consumer and technology enthusiasts interested in technology, wine and wine events from over 50 countries on their website at www.winetwo.com.
“Wine 2.0 New York is the showcase for the emerging companies and wineries that are reinventing how wine is made, marketed or sold. These forward thinking companies, combined with new players from the web 2.0 space are the cutting edge of wine sales and promotion.” said J. Smoke Wallin, Chairman of Wine 2.0.  “We are excited to have the strong support of our key partners including Webster Hall Digital, Wine Library TV and Web 2.0 Expo”, he continued.
Wine 2.0 New York sponsors include WineLibrary.tv, Cameron Hughes Wine, Corkd, eWinery Solutions, Foster’s Wine Estates, AmericanWinery.com, RadCru, Snooth and The Tasting Panel magazine with many more wine and tech industry companies and wineries.
Wine 2.0 New York is presented by Webster Hall Digital, the digital media arm of the recently landmarked entertainment venue. Located in New York City’s famous East Village, Webster Hall was built in 1886 and is the country’s first modern nightclub. It has 4 floors of dynamic entertainment space, performance stages, dance floors and luxurious lounges housed within one of New York’s most historic and beautiful buildings.
Wine 2.0 partner companies and wineries include among others:  AmericanWinery.com, Appellation America, Bottlenotes.com, Calwineries.com, Corkd.com, Crushpad, eWinery Solutions, Inertia Beverage Group, Openbottles.com, RadCru.com, ShipCompliant.com, Snooth, Vinquire, and Wine Library, Winelog.net and WinePod. Winery innovators have included Cameron Hughes Wine, Concanan Vineyard, Cannonball Wine Company, Dashe Cellars, Girard Winery, Halleck, Fosters Wine Estates, Spencer Roloson, Three Thieves, Twisted Oak, Windsor Vineyards and a host of others.
About Wine 2.0™
Wine 2.0™ is creating a family of web based and live experience based businesses providing value added services for the wine industry and wine consumers with specific focus on the next generation wine consumer.   Wine 2.0 events feature the newest generation of emerging technology companies, services and communication tools that are changing the world of wine by focusing on various categories including winery direct sales, online wine retailing, community driven ecommerce, education and virtual wineries.  Wine 2.0 has hosted thousands of wine trade and consumer advocates, and over 150 wineries and wine technology companies at numerous events since its founding.  (www.winetwo.com)  Tickets go on sale online only August 1, 2008.
About Wine Library TV
Wine Library TV (www.winelibrary.com) is changing the wine world!  What motivates this revolution, you ask? The movement seeks to break down the barriers, stereotypes, and misperceptions that otherwise prevent people from exploring and enjoying the exciting and rewarding world of wine. Gary Vaynerchuk (VAY NER CHUK), the star of Wine Library TV, is Director of Operations at Wine Library in Springfield, NJ. With his unconventional, often irreverent commentary on wine, Gary has attracted a cult-like following of more than 80,000 viewers a day. In the name of “expanding one’s palate”, Gary convinced Conan O’Brien to lick salted rocks and shared samples of dirt and grass with Ellen Degeneres.  He also released his first book in May of 2008 entitled 101 Wines Guaranteed to Inspire, Delight, and Bring Thunder to Your World.
About Web 2.0 Expo
Web 2.0 Expo, co-produced by TechWeb (formerly CMP) and O’Reilly Media, Inc., showcases the latest Web 2.0 business models, development paradigms and design strategies for the builders of the next-generation Web. This annual multi-track conference brings together people, ideas, connections, contacts, products, and companies to foster stronger Web 2.0 communities. Web 2.0 Expo events occur in San Francisco, New York, Europe and Tokyo and feature influential keynotes and speakers, detailed workshops, an Expo show floor, a Web2Open unconference and rich networking events. The inaugural Web 2.0 Expo New York will take place this September 16-19 at the Javits Center. For more information, please visit: (http://www.web2expo.com/ny).