Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Van Drunen.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Urban wineries have been in San Diego for decades, though for many years there were less than a few. About ten years ago was the beginning of the industry’s growth, and the owners and winemakers began talking about coordinating efforts to raise awareness in San Diego of urban wineries. In early 2014, San Diego Urban Wineries was officially formed as a non-profit, mutual benefit corporation to serve the urban winery community throughout San Diego County. We’ve grown each year, and today, thirteen urban wineries are part of the organization!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As is the case with most non-profits, we depend heavily on the work of volunteers, which makes accomplishing both big projects and day-to-day tasks a challenge. Additionally, the regulatory environment around how wineries are allowed to promote themselves can pose some obstacles. With that said, we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished so far in raising the awareness of urban wineries in San Diego and supporting our community of winemakers.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with San Diego Urban Wineries – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
San Diego Urban Wineries is all about supporting our local community of craft winemakers and educating people about the great wine and winery experiences that can be had in their own neighborhood!
Urban wineries take grapes from the country, and make wine in the city. Our members source grapes both locally in San Diego County, but also from other areas in California (Central Coast, Lodi, Napa, Sonoma), and even Washington! Our dedicated winemaker members source superior fruit and produce award-winning varietal wines and blends in spaces throughout the county, with tasting rooms dotting the coastline, nestled in the countryside and throughout the urban core.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We’re looking forward to the continued growth of the urban winery scene in San Diego (and nationwide) along with the growth of wineries in San Diego County as a whole. On top of that, the burgeoning craft cider and mead industries (also wineries, just not grapes!) added to the strong craft beer industry here make this area an overall craft beverage hub. It’s a great place to be for craft – both as a consumer and a producer!
Pricing:
- Most tasting flights at urban wineries cost $10-$15 and include 4 to 6 wines.
- The SDUW Passport is $35 and includes a tasting flight at 12 urban wineries – a great deal!
Contact Info:
- Website: sdurbanwineries.com
- Email: info@sdurbanwineries.com
Image Credit:
Sam Wells
Carruth Cellars
Charlie & Echo
Negociant Winery
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
