California Wineries Receive Healthy Economic Forecast

What: Annual economic report on state's wine industry given to more than 300 California wine executives attending the 1995 Wine Industry Symposium. California wineries are anticipating a very good year because demand is higher and the number of consumers drinking premium wines is expected to increase, according to wine economist Bob Smiley, dean of the Graduate School of Management at UC Davis. Data collected for the business school's annual economic report to the California wine industry shows that premium wines are the fastest growing portion of the market for wine makers. The hottest new marketing tool for vintners this year will be the use of the Internet in advertising their product. Wineries will offer direct sales of wine with customized labels to consumers who can order from their home computers via the Internet. When: Wednesday, Oct. 18, 8:30 a.m. Where: Silverado Resort, Napa Visuals: Interviews with Smiley, California winemakers, and visuals of the vineyards and equipment of a local winery. Background: This is the fourth annual wine industry financial symposium designed for wine executives who are looking for new business strategies. The all-day conference will discuss business cycles, product packaging and new marketing approaches that relates to the wine industry. Directions and Parking: From Interstate 80, take the Napa/Sonoma exit and proceed to Highway 29. North on 29. Turn right on Trancas Street to Highway 121. Proceed on Highway 121 to Atlas Peak Road. Left on Atlas Peak. Turn right at the traffic light and park in the front of the Silverado Club mansion.