The Competition
Far Niente becomes a winemaking laboratory. A dozen emerging enology students from top programs enter our facilities, use our fruit, and essentially live in our caves. Established Far Niente winemakers mentor them. The drama unfolds naturally. It always does.
Each contestant produces their own limited edition wine, available exclusively at Far Niente tasting rooms and through the wine club. Authentic product placement because the products are actually made here.
The finale? Total Wine buyers join in the action and judge blind. Winners get shelf space at the nation's largest wine retailer. It's cross-promotion that actually makes sense. We're as surprised as you are.
The Timeline
Selection drama, vineyard assignments, first challenges, initial alliances form
Vineyard management, blending workshops, relationships tested by heat
Harvest decisions, fermentation drama, sleep deprivation content
Final judging with Total Wine. Tears guaranteed.
Competition Challenges
Designed to create content and breakdowns
Blind Blending
Create the perfect blend using only taste and instinct. Confidence optional.
Climate Crisis
Adapt to unexpected weather events mid-harvest. It's Napa. This will happen.
Innovation Lab
Balance tradition with modern techniques without making the mentors cry.
Market Appeal
Create wines that critics and consumers love. They want different things. Good luck.
Sustainability Sprint
Minimize impact while maximizing quality. Because we have to live here.
Label Design
Create packaging that tells your story. Yes, your 23-year-old intern energy is showing.
Distribution Strategy
Where the wine actually goes
Winery Exclusives
All contestant wines available as limited editions at Far Niente properties. Collectibility factor: high.
Bottled
Alexis
2026
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley
by Far Niente
- → Tasting room exclusives
- → Wine club priority access
- → Meet the winemaker events
- → Special flight experiences
Total Wine Partnership
The finale brings in buyers from America's wine superstore. No pressure.
- 📺 Episode Finale: Total Wine category managers join Far Niente winemakers. They judge blind. Drama ensues.
- 🏪 Retail Placement: Winners earn actual shelf space at select Total Wine locations. This is real.
- 📢 Cross-Promotion: In-store displays featuring the competition. Your parents will finally understand what you do.
- 🎯 Market Validation: Real buyers making real decisions on camera. Stakes: high. Content: chef's kiss.
Content Integration
The competition creates content across all platforms, turning winemaking into must-watch entertainment. Finally.
Main Series
Competition woven into mockumentary. Confessionals included.
Social Media
Contestant takeovers, behind-the-scenes chaos, poll-driven drama
Live Events
Public tastings where audience votes matter. Democracy in action.
Wine Club
Exclusive access, early voting, feeling superior to non-members