Next Generation Harvest Party

by: Kate Hafner

Every fall, we look forward to welcoming a new generation of wine lovers to Hafner Vineyard for our annual Next Generation Harvest Party. It's an afternoon designed to make wine approachable, introduce young adults to the world of wine and give them a chance to taste Hafner wines.

This year's gathering brought together a lively group of young adults, friends and families for an afternoon in the Grove. Guests enjoyed tasting a selection of Hafner wines, sharing locally sourced and homemade food, playing games and connecting with one another around the community table. For some, it was an opportunity to discover Hafner for the first time. For others, it was a chance to reconnect with friends and enjoy wines their families have served for generations.
We believe learning about wine should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Throughout the afternoon, we offered short, informal sessions led by members of the Hafner family and winemaking team. The two classes focused on how sparkling wine is made and how to taste wine, complete with aromas jars of scents found in each wine. From there, Next Gen-ers shared their findings on our wine wheel.
One of the things we value most about this event is the opportunity to build relationships with the next generation of Hafner patrons. Wine has always been something to share, whether around a dinner table, with friends or across generations of family. We're proud that some of today's young adults are discovering Hafner wines through their parents and grandparents, while others are creating their own traditions with us.

Since Hafner Vineyard sells directly to people at home, these relationships mean a great deal to our family. We want young wine enthusiasts to feel just as welcome here as those who have been enjoying Hafner wines for decades. You don't need to be a wine expert to join us. Curiosity and a willingness to explore are all it takes.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us this year and to all the Next Gen patrons who have been part of this gathering since we started the tradition in 2012. You're helping us build the future of Hafner Vineyard, one bottle, one friendship and one generation at a time.

Know someone between roughly 21 and 45(ish) who enjoys wine, is curious about learning more or would simply enjoy meeting other young wine enthusiasts? We'd love to introduce them to the group. Send us their name and email address. Previous attendees are always welcome to bring a guest or two.

Here are a few memorable moments from this year's party.