A Virginia-based wine writer’s effort to show support for local wineries in the midst of the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak has gone viral.
Frank Morgan, publisher of Drink What YOU Like, had the idea to put a twist on the annual “Open That Bottle Night” held annually on the last Saturday of February, and to have “Open that Bottle of Virginia Wine Night” on Saturday, March 28. He shared his idea with his fellow wine writers at The Cork Report, who with Morgan’s blessing are now encouraging participation in “Open that Local Bottle of Wine Night” across America.
Morgan describes the purpose of the celebration as, “An evening to taste local bounty and appreciate the work of local farmers, winemakers, vineyard crews, tasting rooms staff and others. Maybe a brief respite from news of the spread of the virus.”
Participates in “Open that Bottle of Local Wine Night” are encourage to post photos of themselves and the local wine they are drinking on social media. They are also asked to tag the winery and to use #openlocalwine.
“Open that Bottle of Local Wine Night” is also a reminder that local wineries are among the many business needing support . With having to close their tasting rooms and stop tours and on-site events. local wineries are actively working to supplement that lose of income by promoting services such as free or discounted shipping, curbside pickup, and delivery.
