Bargain Wines That Stand For A Cause
It isn't often that a new wine brand literally takes a country by storm... but in the last few months, America has fallen deeply in love with the wines from Cultivate Wines, and with the people behind it. You won't find it everywhere, but chances are if you dine in better restaurants or patronize discerning wine retailers, you'll become familiar with it very soon.
Atlanta natives (and now Santa Barbara residents), Charles and Ali Banks are the creators of this innovative and fresh concept, but they are no strangers to the world of fine wine. In fact, their names are associated with some of the most sought after bottles in the business (of Screaming Eagle fame). From award-winners to impossible-to-find vintages, the wines they've overseen are considered among the best ever produced in California. Up until now, their vintages have not been affordable for most to enjoy on a regular basis, which is one of the primary reasons that they changed direction.
With Cultivate Wines, the offerings from the portfolio are not only sharable, but also affordable to everyone who loves and appreciates superior wine. The goal in developing the brand was "to offer incredible wines at a value while making the word a better place." Many wine afficianos are telling us that this is "the first high quality wine at a bargain price point" that they truly respect. The approach and concept is revolutionary, which is what makes each sip even more delicious.
In the initial series, there are multiple blends, with the very best grapes sourced from top farms and producers. If you like Santa Margarita pinot grigio, you will no doubt enjoy their Double Blind, which has a better flavor and sells for much less. This also applies to the popular "The Gambler" — a malbec that's being snapped up by collectors and weeknight samplers alike. The labels are gorgeous, the wine is fantastic, and the reputation of those behind the brand promises that every bottle opened will be one to savor.
What I like most (well, almost as much as I like a chilled bottle of their Dream Walking Chardonnay) is the philanthropic element that drives the entire company. Instead of just creating and bottling outstanding wine, Cultivate is based on sharing their mission of a fuller life for all. If you visit their web site, you will see interesting snippets about "cultivating life" on every platform. They want people to linger, to enjoy, and most importantly, to feel good about making a purchase.
Being socially and economically responsible is just part of the equation. While we read often about companies giving a small percentage of profits to charity, Cultivate actually donates 10 percent of gross sales to causes that benefit and empower education and basic human needs. In just a short period of time, this has added up to their giving a minimum of $100,000 per quarter to worthwhile and deserving charities, and that number is growing as people discover the wine. The best part is that buyers get to choose where the dollars go by placing a vote for their favorite cause on the winery's web site. All it takes is one registration, and with the giving spirit and support of any community, the dollars will go to the cause. It's so easy, which is exactly how the people behind Cultivate want it to be.