Welcome to Kickstarter
The Kickstarter Program supports collaborative promotions between California wineries and their importers by providing financial and marketing support for tastings, events, and other in-market activations. Together, these initiatives help spotlight California wine portfolios in key local markets, with on-the-ground support from our International In-Market Specialists.
California wineries are encouraged to invite and work with their importers to participate in the Kickstarter Program, identifying opportunities to jointly activate, promote, and grow their presence in priority markets. Encourage your importer to contact their local California Wine Representative to learn more about Kickstarter opportunities in their market.
Example Kickstarter Events
See how importers around the world are leveraging the Kickstarter Program to showcase California wines through memorable tastings and events.
United Kingdom
BERKMANN CALIFORNIA WINE EVENTS – UK
Berkmann Wine Cellars hosted a trio of California-focused events across the UK, including the Golden State California Wine Tasting, a California Wine Night in Bristol, and an exclusive fine wine tasting for retail buyers ahead of the Holiday Season. Featuring benchmark producers such as Ridge Vineyards, Buena Vista, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Radio-Coteau, Cobb, Pisoni, Williams-Selyem, and County Line Vineyards, the events attracted leading members of the UK wine trade, press, and retail community.
E. & J. Gallo Luxury Portfolio Trade Tasting & Masterclass — London
E. & J. Gallo hosted an exclusive Luxury Portfolio Trade Tasting and Masterclass in London, showcasing a distinguished selection of California producers including Rombauer, Orin Swift, Talbott, J Vineyards, The Language of Yes, Massican, Pahlmeyer, Jayson, Louis M. Martini, and Denner Vineyards. The event welcomed 70 leading UK trade professionals, bringing together sommeliers and retail buyers for an in-depth exploration of California’s premium and luxury wine landscape.
Europe
CALIFORNIA WINES TRADE SHOWCASE — WROCŁAW, POLAND
Polish importer Winkolekcja hosted an exclusive California Wines Kickstarter event at Restauracja Tarasowa in Wrocław. Twenty-two trade and media guests explored the distinctive styles of Sequoia Grove Winery, Ridge Vineyards, Paul Lato Wines, and Orin Swift Cellars through a guided tasting experience.
Napa Sticks & Stones — Munich, Germany
Eggerssohn hosted a Napa Monday showcasing the diversity of Napa Valley wines to 20+ trade guests, including top sommeliers from Dallmayr, Käfer, and Bar Mural. Featured wines included Ravenswood, Louis M. Martini, Jayson by Pahlmeyer, Rombauer, and Paul Hobbs.
How We Partner with Importers Through Kickstarter
Event Support
Host trade tastings, consumer events, or dinners with funding support based on attendance.
Travel Bursaries
Visit California wine country to expand your knowledge and discover new brands.
Free Education
Complimentary access Capstone California Levels 1 and 2 certification (normally $550 USD).
Key Resources
Download your marketing materials and register for the education portal below:
| → Kickstarter Logos | → California Wines Logos |
| → View Presentation | → Enroll in Capstone (Free Member Code) |
Critical Program Rules for Importers
DO
- ✓
Submit all proof of performance within the deadline. - ✓
Use the California Wines logo on ALL event materials. - ✓
Feature exclusively California wines at funded events (minimum of 2 California brands).
DON’T
- ✗
Charge your wineries for any Kickstarter funding received. - ✗
Mix non-California wines into funded events. - ✗
Submit invoices after the fiscal year deadline.