Distinctive by Design: Winning Beyond the Bottle

The wine market is facing undeniable headwinds, including shifting consumer behavior, generational changes, and increased competition for attention and share of wallet. For New York wineries and growers, the pressure is real. But tightening markets do not only create risk; they create separation. In this keynote, Maureen Ballatori, Founder and CEO of Agency 29, will explore how wineries can move from interchangeable to unmistakable in a crowded landscape. Attendees will examine the power of brand differentiation, the importance of choosing where and how to compete strategically, and why experience has become a critical revenue driver beyond the bottle itself. The session will also address the role of disciplined focus by simplifying portfolios, clarifying positioning, and protecting profitability in a more selective marketplace. Rather than waiting for conditions to improve, wineries will leave with a practical framework for strengthening their business and competing with confidence in the season they are in.

About B.E.V. NY

B.E.V. NY is New York’s annual conference serving as a vital gathering for professionals and enthusiasts in the grape and wine industry. More than 300 people attend annually to hear the latest information about winemaking, grape growing and marketing from academic and industry experts ranging from winery and vineyard leadership to winemakers, vineyard managers, tasting room managers, sales and more. The two-day event offers a diverse range of programming with a strong focus on three key areas: business, enology, and viticulture. Pesticide credits will be available during viticulture-specific programming.