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American Small Batch showcases our comprehensive, regional portfolio of high quality, limited production wineries from California, Oregon and Washington. These estate, vineyard designate, site specific and reserve wines are crafted by many of the country’s top winemakers, many of who support and practice natural viticulture and non-interventionist winemaking. |
When we started Cream in October of 2001, one of our goals was to offer a solid and balanced portfolio of dynamic, American artisan winemakers whose emphasis is quality rather than quantity. As we enter our 9th selling season and all the wonderful new releases, this American Small Batch Portfolio has become our calling card. Cream markets Small Batch wines in a distinct and different manner than the rest of our portfolio. Allocations are managed giving priority and respect to a customer’s history of support. However, waiting lists are maintained and extra wine is moved around whenever possible. We are a distribution company, not a wine library. There is no secret password. We just want to sell wine.
New wines and concentrated seasonal releases of non-allocated wines are pre-offered to
add incentive and facilitate volume and commitment immediately upon release. A calendar of releases is available and the creation and execution of offerings and allocation management are given the highest priority.
Embracing and utilizing technology greatly helps with the management of these special properties. Our website offers up-to-date and detailed information on people, wineries, vineyards and wines – including technical sheets, press, tasting notes and point of sale. Email marketing is used to drive sales through unique and limited offerings and event promotion. Cream sales representatives have access to real time inventory and allocation management tools. All enhancements are designed to increase the service level and provide well needed brand focus for seamless and proper distribution.
Our American Small Batch Portfolio Tasting (6th Annual tasting April 21, 2010) is the culmination and ultimate showcase of our fine collection and is recognized by the trade as one of the Midwest’s premier fine wine events. Small Batch winery owners, representatives, winemakers and vineyard managers present new and current releases to Illinois’ top restaurant and retail buyers. Focused seminars, market visits and restaurant and retail events involving our Small Batch producers are common the week of the Portfolio Tasting, as well as throughout the year.
We have many friends to thank for the success of this unique concept in fine wine marketing. First, are the winemakers and owners whose passion and pursuit of excellence makes our jobs easier and
more fun. Second, you the customer for your belief in this project and continued, generous support of these fabulous wines and people. Third, and the most important link in this wacky yet wonderful wine business, is the consumer. Their interest in real, artisan wine, with a sense of place, personality and integrity is the reason why we are all here. Never forget that. Our passion is wine, food and people not labels, boxes and projections. To quote one of Chicago’s favorite sons, Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe, “Less is more.” |
