Global Wine Industry Experts to Present at California Wines Export 2020 Conference

Feb. 18, 2020 – Registration Open Now – Space Is Limited

SAN FRANCISCO — Wine Institute will host “Export 2020: The California Wine Global Export Conference,” featuring leading voices in the global wine trade on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at the Culinary Institute of America at COPIA in Napa Valley. Keynote speaker Jancis Robinson, MW, will be joined by international industry leaders to present perspectives on California wine in the global marketplace and stimulate discussion on the dynamic changes facing the world’s wine industry today.

“We are pleased to present an outstanding slate of international experts who will address the significant opportunities for exporting California wines worldwide,” said Robert P. Koch, Wine Institute President and CEO. “Our high-quality wines, leadership in sustainable winegrowing and the aspirational lifestyle of the Golden State continue to attract consumers worldwide, and the program will help our vintners take their exports to the next level.”

Jancis Robinson, MW, with wine writer and educator, Elaine Chukan Brown, will open the program with insights into the role and potential of California wine globally, followed by a panel discussion, “Global Trends by Sales Channel: What is the Impact on California Wine.” Moderated by Andrew Catchpole, Editor, Harper’s Wine & Spirit, the panel will feature George Soleas, President & CEO, Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO), Canada; Troy Christensen, CEO, Enotria & Coe, U.K.; Kenichi Ohashi, MW, owner, Yamajin Co., Ltd., Japan; and Sara Norrell, Vice President of Assortment, Purchasing and Supply Chain, Systembolaget, Sweden. Other speakers include Charlotte Galving, Wine Buyer & Category Planner Overseas Wines, Co-op Denmark; Laura Santander, leading restauranteur and sommelier from Mexico City; and Michael Camuñez, President & CEO, Monarch Global Strategies, Los Angeles.

“We are excited to bring together professionals with a depth of knowledge and experience in our top global markets. This is a rare opportunity to gain critical intelligence for successful export marketing,” said Honore Comfort, Wine Institute Vice President of International Marketing.

Following the morning program, guests will attend afternoon breakout sessions focusing on topics such as upcoming changes to the retail environment in Canada, emerging markets and opportunities across Europe, and strategies for success in up-and-coming regions of Asia. There will also be sessions specifically for wineries that are new to export sales or considering how it could fit into their business model. Wine Institute international trade directors will be in attendance to meet with attendees who wish to learn more about key markets.

Export 2020 is intended for winery owners, senior sales and marketing executives, and leaders in the wine trade from Europe, North America and Asia. Registration and program information are available at: export2020.wineinstitute.org. Seating is limited so early registration is advised.