What We Learned at SommCon This Year

SommCon 2024 was held from October 5 to October 7 in San Diego, CA.

This three-day conference brought together wine and spirits professionals from across the industry. This year’s event featured a blend of educational sessions, tastings, and networking opportunities designed to elevate industry knowledge and foster collaboration. Attendees had the chance to engage with leading experts, participate in competitions, and explore the latest industry trends.

The first day of the event kicked off with the Concours d’Vin and Concours d’Spirits judging, where industry experts gathered to evaluate standout wines and spirits. The Women in Craft Forum featured discussions led by women in the industry, focusing on leadership and innovation. The day also included a lively Welcome Reception, where attendees and exhibitors connected in an atmosphere filled with exceptional wines and spirits. As exhibitors set up for the largest professional trade tasting in the country, it was clear that this was just the start to to an exciting weekend.

The excitement continued on Day 2 with the announcement of the winners from the prior day’s competitions. SommCon producer Michelle Metter opened the day with remarks and an announcement regarding a new collaboration with The SOMM Journal. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in hand-on education, explore the Beverage Expo, and participate in the Champagne Games. The day concluded with the SommChill Party, providing a perfect wrap-up to a day filled with learning, tasting, and networking.

Day 3 commenced with a meaningful mentor/mentee breakfast, connecting scholarship recipients with industry leaders. Dr. Monique Bell of Fresno State led a powerful session on racial inclusion progress in the wine industry. The day was abuzz with the trade tasting, where attendees participated in Champagne Games, explored tastings of the Paso Robles AVA, and received career advice from industry experts. The conclusion of SommCon came with the RNDC Fall Portfolio Tasting.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all attendees, educators, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, and staff who contributed to the success of the SommCon Conference & Beverage Expo 2024. For those who missed the action, several sessions were recorded, and a SommCon Virtual Conference will be available early next year.