Returning home from another successful Midwest Grape and Wine Conference is a great feeling. This event is nestled in the heartland of America and is an untapped Gem for most winemakers. Of course there are the usual suspects there from all the exhibiting companies and sponsors but the real treat is the people who travel in from Missouri and neighboring states. While not as large scale as the East Coast shows the Midwest show is much more to the point. People are friendlier than anywhere (besides Michigan!) and the overall vibe is that of an busy and informative wine event. I have never been disappointed by the event and this year they even let in the Craft Brewers for a nice twist. This convergence of Craft Beer and Winemaking is great for exhibitors like us who have products that apply to both markets. I hope to see more creative ideas implemented in this show as the years pass, already since my first time (3 years ago) they have made significant changes that have improved the traffic flow, and overall experience. I was a little disappointed that we did not have a Wine Banquet this year, but keep reading and you will see why (they had two tasting events!).
I would like to say than you to everyone we met this year. The Tour de Vin and the Tour de Brew where top-notch and we made some great new friends. I will definitely be returning in 2015 and would suggest anyone in the Midwest who is interested in starting or growing there wine and or beermaking hobby should too. These trade shows may cater to the larger wineries but the trade show floor is full of exhibitors, like us, who work with the home winemakers and the the start up companies. Here is a list of must see exhibitors if you are stating up a brewery or winery in the near future. If you missed the Midwest show then you can catch most of the same (with a different lineup of speakers and classes) in Richmond, VA for Wineries Unlimited.
Josh’s Highly Suggested Industry Links:
Caraker Law Firm - Everything you need to know about Alcohol law, they will take care of it all, no headaches required.
Wine Stix / Beer Stix – A new “twist” on oak alternatives, use these for wine and beer making in stainless steel barrels or tanks.
ArtonProducts.com – The right glass for every occasion, talk to them about custom wine or beer glasses
And of course you know that we can take care of all your winemaking (and beer) barrels and tanks. We are currently improving our product offereing to include brewery equipment and supplies. Look for updates on this coming soon, and check out our products page to learn more. Not on the products page yet are the new stainless steel micron filters.
If you have any questions about these companies, or our products I am happy to talk, send me an email Joshua@miwinebarrel.com
Click to learn more about both the Midwest Grape and Wine Conference and Wineries Unlimited.
