Talent alone won’t guarantee success in the wine industry. Professionals who advance make a point of seeking out opportunities to learn, connect, and stay ahead of emerging trends. One of the most effective ways to do that is by attending conferences that gather industry leaders, innovators, and peers in one place—a chance to hear real-world insights, share challenges, and leave with ideas you can immediately apply.
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, the North Coast Wine Industry Expo (WIN Expo) returns to the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa. Now in its 13th year, the Expo is recognized as one of the largest trade shows and conferences for wine industry professionals on the West Coast. Beyond the bustling exhibit hall, the conference program features 12 sessions across four tracks—Winemaking, Sales & Marketing, Strategy & Leadership, and Vineyard & Growers—covering the topics and challenges that shape careers across the industry.
“In a saturated marketplace, it’s more important than ever to distinguish your story and amplify your impact,” says George Christie, Founder & CEO of Wine Industry Network. “Our goal is to equip attendees with the knowledge and connections they need to thrive—whether that’s making better wine, growing better grapes, or redefining their marketing edge.”
Why The WIN Expo Is a Career Catalyst
Whether you’re just starting out or stepping into a leadership role, the fastest way to accelerate your career is to immerse yourself in environments where knowledge is shared and challenged. This conference provides:
Access to Industry Leaders – Learn directly from winemakers, marketers, and executives who are shaping the future of wine.
Practical, Transferable Insights – From navigating bulk wine markets to understanding the latest in vineyard technology, the sessions are built around challenges professionals face every day.
Networking With Purpose – Unlike casual industry mixers, conferences foster connections grounded in shared learning—conversations that often open doors to new roles, collaborations, or career moves.
A Look at the 2025 WIN Expo Conference
This year’s program features 12 sessions across four tracks—Winemaking, Sales & Marketing, Strategy & Leadership, and Vineyard & Growers. Each track is designed to provide actionable takeaways you can apply immediately, no matter your role.
Highlights include:
Clarifying the Future of Fining: Comparing Plant-Based and Traditional Fining Agents (Winemaking, with in-session tastings)
Next Gen Wine: How Wineries Can Win with the Modern Consumer (Sales & Marketing)
Future-Proofing Your Wine Brand: Strategies for Resilience & Long-Term Success (Strategy & Leadership)
The AgTech Investment Dilemma: Determining Which Tech Solutions Meet Your Needs (Vineyard & Growers)
Who Should Be Paying Attention
Job Seekers & Early-Career Professionals: Attending conferences demonstrates initiative. Hiring managers notice candidates who actively invest in their professional growth.
Mid-Level Managers: Staying ahead of trends in marketing, production, or vineyard management is essential for advancement—and for proving you’re ready for the next role.
Leaders & Entrepreneurs: No matter how much experience you have, peer-to-peer learning ensures your strategies remain sharp and future-focused..
Students & Career Explorers – Gain exposure to real-world practices and start building your professional network early. Students are eligible for conference discounts - contact olivia@wineindustrynetwork.com for more information.
Making the Most of the Expo
The Expo is more than a trade show—it’s a career development opportunity. Attend sessions that align with your goals, explore new tools and services in the exhibit hall, and take time to connect with peers. Every conversation, demonstration, and tasting is a chance to gain insights that could shape your career.
Career growth doesn’t happen by accident. Professionals who advance actively seek learning experiences, put themselves in the right rooms, and take advantage of the knowledge and connections available. The 2025 WIN Expo provides that space—a single day packed with knowledge, connection, and inspiration.
Mark your calendar: Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa. Don’t miss the chance to learn, connect, and advance your wine career before 2026.