Marketing Your Winery in Year One: What to Focus On First

Starting a winery is exciting—but in a crowded market, great wine alone won’t get people through the door. In your first year, there’s a lot to do. Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does need to be intentional.

Whether you just opened or are a few months out, here’s how to set your marketing foundation for long-term success—without burning through your budget.

Get Clear on What Makes You Different

We’ve seen it too many times: new wineries launch with vague language about “premium wines in a scenic setting.” That could describe half the region.

Before you start promoting anything, get specific. Why does your winery exist? What kind of experience are you offering? What sets you apart?

Your answers should drive your website copy, social posts, tasting room pitch—everything. If your brand story isn’t clear, your marketing won’t stick.

Build a Website That Actually Helps Your Business

Your website doesn’t need to win awards—it needs to work. People should be able to find your hours, directions, reservation link, and basic info fast—especially on mobile.

In your first year, your site should:

• Drive foot traffic to your tasting room
• Encourage email signups and club interest
• Reflect your real vibe—not just your label design

Read: Winery Website Must-Haves

Make Sure Locals and Visitors Can Find You

If you’re not showing up when people Google “wineries near me,” you’re missing easy traffic. Many first-year wineries overlook this.

Make sure you:

• Claim your Google Business Profile
• Add photos, hours, and your booking link
• Double-check your map pin and business category

Most people use Google to plan their wine tasting day—especially last minute.

Use Social Media to Post Content That Builds Connection, Not Just Sales

You don’t need to go viral. You do need to show people what it’s like to visit. Photos of your space, behind-the-scenes winemaking clips, a quick shot of a guest flight—these go a long way.

Skip the stock photos and canned taglines. Show who you are, what you’re like, and why someone should care.

Read: How to Use Instagram Stories to Showcase Your Winery’s Story

Start Building Your Email List Right Away

You don’t need a full-blown newsletter strategy yet. But you do need a way to keep in touch with people who visit or check out your site.

Make email signups easy. Add a simple form to your homepage and consider offering a small incentive like early access or a thank-you pour.

Bonus Tip: Segment your email marketing list from the start for maximum effect.

Plan One Solid Photoshoot

Professional photography makes a huge difference. People judge your business based on what they see online. One good shoot can fuel your website, social posts, and ads for months.

Focus on:

• Your space (inside and out)
• Your team and guests
• Real tasting experiences
• A few detail shots of bottles, pours, or menus

Use Year One to Learn What Works

Test different ideas: event types, email subject lines, social posts, and more. Then track what gets people through the door.

Ask guests how they found you. Check Google Analytics and your POS reports. Use what you learn to double down on what’s working and adjust what’s not.

Bottom Line: Set Smart Marketing Foundations Early

Year one isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the right things: clear messaging, a functional website, and authentic content that brings people in and keeps them coming back.

Because even the best wine can’t market itself.

Need help launching your winery the right way?
At Crimson Vine Marketing, we help new wineries build strong from day one. From your first photo shoot to your first wine club signup—we’ve got you covered. Let’s talk →