This CSA vineyard takes requests and delivers

by Tory Davis

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Enlightenment Wines, in New York’s lush Hudson River Valley, claims to put the “alchemy back in alcohol” with its Community Supported Alcohol delivery program — it’s so community friendly, members can even suggest new wines (TastingTable.com 7.12.10).
Winemaker Raphael Lyon hand-delivers a dozen mixed bottles to members four times a year, and encourages them to stop by and lend a hand on his farm. He uses no pumps, sulfites nor filters; the self-taught vintner eschews most modern vineyard technology in favor of old-fashioned production.
The latest wines include a dandelion-infused Memento Mori and an elderberry and cherry-infused sparkling mead called Cuveé Anguis Singularum.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO BUSINESS

As wine has gone the massclusivity route, serious drinkers will crave more of the personal touch.
More consumers keep seeking all things small-batch and handmade. Winemaking has traditionally been perceived as romantic and bucolic; a vineyard that invites its CSA members to spend a day on the farm only deepens consumers’ appreciation for the final artisanal product.
Just as many Top Chef viewers now fancy themselves a chef, many oenophiles feel they could make a fine wine if given the chance. A vineyard that takes suggestions will attract enthusiastic wine lovers aplenty.

RESOURCES

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