#United States #Napa Valley #Come Together #Wine Advocacy #Community for Wine

Come Together: Celebrating Community Through Wine

NAPA VALLEY, California — As we step into 2026, Come Together -- A Community for Wine, Inc. proudly reflects on the momentum gained from its successful advocacy campaigns, Come Over October and Share & Pair Sundays. Established by founders Karen MacNeil, Kimberly Noelle Charles, and Gino Colangelo, this mission-driven organization aims to highlight wine's role in fostering connections within communities worldwide.

Highlighting Culture and Togetherness
In light of a growing loneliness epidemic affecting countless individuals, the organization feels more resolute than ever in promoting the narrative of wine as a unifying force. According to data released by the World Health Organization, approximately 16% of people globally report feeling lonely. This staggering statistic underscores the need for meaningful social interactions, which the wine community seeks to facilitate through its campaigns.

“From our initial concept blossomed a collective movement affirming wine’s cultural and social worth,” shares Karen MacNeil. “It’s increasingly vital that we discuss the valuable role wine plays in strengthening community bonds.”

The Come Over October campaign encourages people to bond over wine by inviting colleagues, friends, and family to share moments together. Meanwhile, Share & Pair Sundays promotes the notion of enjoying meals accompanied by wine, providing a nurturing space for togetherness during challenging times.

Growth and Accomplishments
In 2025, the campaign not only exceeded initial expectations but also expanded its reach internationally. The initiatives were launched in Canada, and a notable increase in engagement was recorded: a 40% rise in financial contributions and more than 35% growth in participation from wine companies. Celebrities from various fields rallied in support, including legendary chefs Lidia Bastianich and Charlie Palmer, and P!nk (Alecia Moore), alongside NBA star CJ McCollum, who contributed to the movement's visibility and traction.

The figures are impressive: the advocacy campaigns garnered over 2.5 billion earned media impressions, 10 million social media interactions, and activations across more than 2,000 retail outlets, thereby reaching approximately 8 million wine enthusiasts directly.

Plans for the Future
Looking into 2026, Gino Colangelo emphasizes even greater aspirations, seeking a 50% increase in consumer outreach facilitated by enhanced retail collaborations, direct marketing, and compelling content on social media. “Our vision is not just to grow in numbers but to strengthen the entire wine community’s ecosystem through heightened participation both domestically and internationally,” he enthusiastically adds.

The upcoming year features the second annual Share & Pair Sundays and third annual Come Over October, along with the anticipated Come Over October, Canada! campaign.

Engagement and Support
Foundational partners have been vital to achieving these milestones. Industry leaders like Freixenet Mionetto, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Jackson Family Wines, and Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits are collaborators committed to the cause. Major retailers participating in the campaigns include Total Wine & More, Wine.com, and Kroger, to name a few. Additionally, notable partnerships with Wine America, Lyft, and Yelp signal widespread support for the initiative. Media Sponsorships further amplify their outreach, with Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, and Somm Journal among the valued sponsors.

In conclusion, Come Together -- A Community for Wine has established itself not just as an organization supporting wine production, but as a beacon for social connection during times of increasing isolation. By fostering community, the initiative stands poised to transform the narrative around wine, ensuring it remains a celebrated companion for gatherings across the globe.

For a detailed list of supporters or more information about their movements, please refer to Come Together.