Sommsation

Founded by Randy and Brooke Hester in 2014, C.L. Butaud Wines is a testament to the potential of Texas terroir. With a deep foundation in Napa Valley winemaking, the Hesters have built a portfolio of ultra-premium wines made entirely from 100% Texas-grown grapes. As Randy states, “I make wine from my heart; that's the essence of why I do what I do.” Their passion for both the craft and the land has resulted in wines that have received attention from Decanter, Wine Advocate, VinePair, and more. At Sommsation, we’re not just selecting wines; we’re connecting our clients with creators like C.L. Butaud who are pushing the boundaries of what Texas wines can achieve. Randy’s minimalist approach to winemaking blends the art of centuries-old traditions with the precision of modern science, producing wines that don’t just reflect their origin, they tell a story. “Respecting centuries of winemaking evolution while grounding artistic instinct in the science of fermentation.” This philosophy is what makes C.L. Butaud a standout in the Texas wine scene. By curating C.L. Butaud’s wines, Sommsation brings the rare quality and craftsmanship of Texas winemaking to clients who appreciate distinctive wines with a true sense of place. The wines we select are those that elevate any collection and offer a glimpse into the extraordinary potential of the Texas terroir. Learn more about C.L. Butaud Wines and explore the unique story behind each bottle here https://bit.ly/4h3DaDt

This Thursday, join us for a sommelier-led tasting that’s all about great wine, insightful conversations, and new connections. We’re bringing together industry professionals, collectors, and wine lovers to explore standout bottles from Napa, Sonoma, Walla Walla, Oregon, and California’s Central Coast, each paired with a chef-crafted dish designed to highlight its character. Beyond just tasting, this is an opportunity to dive deeper into what makes these wines special - the regions, techniques, and craftsmanship behind every bottle. Whether you want to sharpen your palate, discover new producers, or simply enjoy a night of great wine and engaging discussion, this event offers the perfect setting. Our sommeliers will guide the experience, sharing thoughtful insights and unexpected pairings to help enrich your appreciation of wine. Spots are limited, so don’t miss out on this exclusive pairing experience. Reserve your seat now https://lnkd.in/gUrw9bjp

Ever wondered what connects Paso Robles, South Australia, and France's Rh?ne Valley? It turns out, these regions have more in common than meets the eye! From similar climates to distinct terroirs, they all produce bold and expressive wines that are worth exploring. Our latest blog takes a closer look at Syrah, Grenache, and other Rh?ne-style varieties, and how they flourish in these distinct regions. By comparing and contrasting these wine regions, you'll get a better sense of what makes each one special and how that translates to the wines they produce. Give it a read and let us know: Which Rh?ne-style wines are you reaching for lately? https://bit.ly/41MMl4c

Cellar Beast Winehouse has carved out a unique space in the wine industry with its focus on premium, small-lot wines that showcase the best of California’s diverse terroir. Their commitment to sustainability and innovative winemaking techniques is evident in every bottle, blending modern and traditional practices. By sourcing fruit from top-tier vineyards, Cellar Beast delivers wines that stand out for their craftsmanship and complexity. At Sommsation, we’re drawn to wineries like Cellar Beast because they prioritize quality and authenticity in every step of their winemaking process. Their approach to sustainability and innovation aligns closely with the wines we curate for our clients, offering exceptional, small-lot selections that reflect the true character of the vineyards and regions they come from. Through our relationship with wineries like Cellar Beast, we’re able to bring distinctive, high-quality wines to our network, creating opportunities for wine enthusiasts to experience wines that truly tell a story. Their dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability aligns seamlessly with Sommsation’s commitment to providing wines that elevate the wine experience for all. https://bit.ly/4h3DaDt

The Sommsation team extends warm birthday wishes to Elizabeth Talley, a fourth generation winemaker and part of Talley Vineyards. Talley’s wines, including their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, have been favorites of multiple presidential offices, and we hope our friend Elizabeth can celebrate with a glass of these magnificent wines. Best wishes for a great year ahead!

Last week, Sommsation took on eTail?, one of the biggest conferences in the U.S. for eCommerce, innovation, and tech. As we continue to grow and adapt to our clients' changing needs, it's crucial that we stay on top of the latest digital trends and advancements. eTail is the perfect place to do just that - it's where industry leaders come together to push the boundaries of what's possible in eCommerce. Our Director of eCommerce, Joe Pfeifer, was selected to lead an engaging discussion on tech stacks at eTail, sharing valuable insights on how companies can effectively build, refine, and optimize the systems that drive their digital commerce efforts. His expertise focused on helping businesses harness the power of technology to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and stay ahead of industry trends. Sommsation returns from eTail with fresh insights, new connections, and an even sharper focus on how technology can elevate the wine experience. We're excited to see what's next and how we can apply these learnings to drive growth, innovation, and continued improvement.

On March 20th, the Sommsation Lounge is bringing an exciting and immersive tasting experience to West Chester, where the art of pairing wine and food takes center stage. Hosted at the Chester County Arts Association, this guided tasting will feature expertly curated wines and paired bites in a setting that highlights both culinary and visual artistry. This event is designed for industry professionals and wine enthusiasts looking to explore pairings on a deeper level. With sommeliers leading the way, guests can engage in conversation, discover unique combinations, and gain fresh insights into the craftsmanship behind every pour. https://lnkd.in/gk3Hj6Mq

Tucked away in the rugged hills of Napa Valley, Ladera Vineyards Vineyards crafts wines that capture the essence of high-elevation fruit. Sommsation is excited to share the story of Ladera, a winery committed to sustainable farming and mindful winemaking that honors the land. Each bottle reflects Napa’s mountain terroir, offering bold, yet refined wines. Ladera’s estate vineyards, located at some of Napa’s highest elevations, benefit from a unique combination of climate, soil, and altitude. This distinct environment, along with Ladera’s sustainable practices, results in wines with remarkable complexity and depth. The team’s dedication to quality shines through in every step, from vineyard to cellar, blending traditional techniques with innovative approaches. What truly sets Ladera apart is their deep connection to the land. Their intentional approach to winemaking reflects a respect for the natural environment, crafting wines that tell the story of Napa’s mountainous terrain. Through Sommsation, you have the opportunity to experience the beauty and character of Ladera’s wines firsthand. Explore Ladera Vineyards and learn more about their unique wines: Learn more about Ladera Vineyards and their exceptional wines: https://bit.ly/4h3DaDt

Balancing Luxury and Rebellion Today, everything spreads instantly, and nothing feels exclusive or unique; news cycles last half a second, trends are gone before you can catch up, and the next hit show is on when you’re one episode into the last one. In that environment, luxury brands face a paradox: how do you keep up? The answer? Controlled rebellion. Luxury has always been rebellious, resisting a flow and, in doing so, bringing attention to the disruption and changing the course of their industries. Coco Chanel rejected corsets.? Steve Jobs removed buttons.? Netflix ended video stores. These weren’t random acts. They were ‘rebellions’ designed to: - Create tension (forcing a choice between old and new) - Signal exclusivity (not everyone will understand or accept it—good) - Make the old model obsolete (not just different—irrelevant) This kind of rebellion moves faster than ever. So, how do you grow a luxury brand and maintain authenticity? Engineering a Luxury Rebellion 1. Rebel… but with a cause The best rebellions aren’t chaotic—they’re surgical. When Apple removed the headphone jack, it wasn’t about destruction but signaling a sleeker, more advanced world. What’s a convention in your industry that’s overdue for reinvention? Remove it. 2. Create some friction If everyone embraces your rebellion immediately, it wasn’t bold enough. It needs to feel exclusive; consumers need to feel part of something special. Launch in limited circles, then let insiders drive demand. Scarcity fuels status. 3.? Leverage Digital for Scarcity, Not Accessibility More visibility does not equal more desirability. The magic isn't in Mass exposure—it’s precision access. Will This Make A Luxury Product More Desirable? Every rebellious move must answer: Does this make access to our world more coveted? If it makes the brand feel more available, rethink it. If it makes the brand feel like an inside secret, you’re on the right track. So… Whats the formula Rebel quietly but make noise in the right places. Make the rule-break feel inevitable, not reckless. Let the right people fight for access—don’t hand it out. #Luxury #BrandStrategy #Rebellion #Marketing #Innovation #Sommsation