By Doug Fabbioli

As the leaves are turning colors and the outdoor temperatures are dipping downward, many people start thinking about the ever-growing holiday season. Seasonal decorations are appearing in the stores and economic talking heads are discussing the latest predictions of how people will spend their hard-earned money this season. I want to promote the idea of gifting and sharing locally grown and crafted wines with your family and friends.

Our industry continues to work, learn and grow to create high quality wines for you and your loved ones to enjoy. A full-bodied red wine may be appropriate for your Uncle, while a bright and fruity sparkling wine may be appropriate for a family care giver. In addition to those wines, many wineries are making fruit wines, port style wines, ciders and dynamic white wines as well. Local wineries and wine shops are looking forward to helping you make your selections for the season celebrations and gifts.

If you are having a celebration, consider serving local wines to your guests. Picking a few wines that are special to you and telling the story of why you made your choices makes it even more special. Some folks may work at or own businesses that give gifts to clients or staff. Some wineries will help to create custom labels for a wine to enhance your gift. There may be a bonus to buying wine in quantity so ask your seller if they offer discounts.

Wine is not the only local holiday item you can buy for your loved ones. Some may be food related, some are artistic, some may be very functional and some items might be just darn silly. The magic happens when you see the person you are buying for in the item that you are purchasing! Many crafters are out at this time of year selling their goods at pop up markets, regional farm markets and festivals.  Oftentimes these folks are making products in their spare time and applying all their entrepreneurial spirit to make their business work. Every sale makes a difference for these crafters, and those around them.

As a child I was taught by my parents that Santa Claus was the spirit of giving. I have tried to have the spirit of giving inspire me every day. Every purchase you make when you purchase locally supports your neighborhood. This act embodies the spirit of giving to not only the recipient but the hard-working person that produced it.  Enjoy your family this season and please share locally made products. As always, thank you for your support and my sincere wish for a healthy and happy holiday season for all!

About the Author: Farmer, winemaker, entrepreneur, educator, and leader, Doug Fabbioli has been accelerating the growth and quality of Virginia’s wine industry since 1997. With his wife Colleen, Doug is the owner/operator of Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg, VA. He is the founder and director of The New Ag School, which focuses on teaching the next generation of farmers and agriculture-related leaders. No wonder they call Doug Fabbioli the Godfather of DC’s Wine Country.