Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that the Virginia Tourism Corporation will be partnering with Uber, the multinational transportation network company, for October Virginia Wine Month promotions across the Commonwealth.
The partnership is the first-of-its-kind in the country. Uber and VTC are partnering for Virginia Wine Month to ensure that residents and visitors around the Commonwealth have access to safe, reliable, and affordable transportation to some of the state’s more than 280 picturesque wineries.
“Working together with Uber, we are able to ensure that everyone enjoying Virginia Wine Month has a ride home, which keeps our roads and communities safe,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe, speaking at the announcement. “This partnership will increase accessibility to the greatest wineries in the country by offering an affordable transportation option that is available when people want it. We are thrilled to be partnering with Uber on this promotion to celebrate Virginia wine, and for Virginians and travelers alike to discover the amazing experiences Virginia wineries have to offer.”
“Virginia’s wine industry is a huge driver for travel and tourism in Virginia, with an estimated annual economic impact of almost $750 million,” said Todd Haymore, Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “October Virginia Wine Month is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore Virginia’s beautiful wineries and quality wines. We are pleased to be working with Uber to ensure that travelers get to those wineries safely and reliably. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase why Virginia is for Wine Lovers – and for Uber lovers.”
During the month of October, consumers using Uber to visit select wineries near the Charlottesville, Richmond, and Leesburg areas will receive discounts on tastings, merchandise, and bottles of wine. The goal of the promotion is to encourage visitation to Virginia wineries during October Virginia Wine Month, while also promoting safe transportation through Uber’s driver network. Participating wineries include: King Family Vineyards and Veritas Vineyard & Winery in the Charlottesville area, 8 Chains North Winery and The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards in the Leesburg area, and Buskey Cider and James River Cellars Winery in the Richmond area.
“Uber is proud to celebrate with the Commonwealth during Virginia Wine Month,” said Colin Tooze, Southeast Public Affairs Director for Uber. “Partnering together, we can help boost the local economy, keep our roads and highways safe, and welcome Virginians and tourists to enjoy the best Virginia has to offer with convenience and peace of mind.”
Uber has committed to leverage its logistics and processes to ensure there are enough drivers, even in some relatively remote areas, to ensure anyone who needs a safe ride home can receive one with the touch of a button. Visitors to the participating wineries will receive 50 percent off tastings (same day only), 50 percent off their first flight at Buskey Cider; 15 percent off any merchandise, and 15 percent off any wine purchased.
Upon arrival at the winery or cidery, riders will show their Uber receipt or Uber trip history on their smartphone to the staff. Discounts are only eligible on same day of travel. This promotion will run on weekends throughout October and on Columbus Day*.
About Virginia Wine
Virginia currently ranks fifth in the number of wineries in the nation, with more than 285, and is also the nation’s fifth largest wine grape producing state. Currently, Virginia is sixth in the nation for number of cideries. According to a 2012 economic impact study, the Virginia wine industry, including the Virginia cider industry, employs more than 4,700 and contributes almost $750 million to the Virginia economy on an annual basis. Sales of Virginia wine reached a record high during fiscal year 2016, with more than 556,500 cases, or over 6.6 million bottles, sold. For more information on Virginia wines, please visit www.virginia.org/wine.
About October Virginia Wine Month
October Virginia Wine Month: Discover Your Local Crush is a month-long celebration of local wine with special events, tastings, festivals and more at Virginia’s more than 280 wineries statewide. October is an ideal time to visit Virginia as the state’s 15 million acres of foliage burst into color and wineries are celebrating the harvest. From the coastal serenity of the Eastern Shore to the majestic splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains, each wine region provides travelers with a one-of-a-kind wine experience.
About Uber
Uber is evolving the way Virginia moves. By seamlessly connecting riders to drivers through mobile apps, Uber makes communities more accessible, opening up more possibilities for riders and more business for drivers. For more information, please visit www.uber.com.
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