Why Now Is A Great Time To Join A Wine Club
Blog Post
According to Forbes contributor Jill Barth’s recent article “Why Now Is a Great Time to Join a Wine Club,” 2026 presents a uniquely compelling moment to join a wine club.
Barth writes, “If you’ve been on the fence about joining a winery’s wine club, 2026 may offer the best value proposition you’ll see in years. As the wine industry navigates what Silicon Valley Bank calls a “bumpy bottom” in demand—expected to stabilize in 2027-2028—wineries are doubling down on member benefits and hospitality experiences to retain and attract club members. The result? Some of the most competitive perks and access in recent memory.”
Still not convinced? Let’s look at the benefits and options of membership at RIDGE.
Why should I join a wine club?
Joining RIDGE’s wine club is an ideal way to try new wines, explore the bounty of California vineyards, and get to know like-minded people. Our winemakers, for example, taste every wine throughout its production, write every note on the back label, and film a tasting note video for you to watch. We’ve recently developed an unboxing video series with our winemaking and retail teams to provide additional insight regarding the wines in your shipment. Our wine club members receive unparalleled access to the stories and details behind the wines.
There are four membership options here at RIDGE, each highlighting a unique set of wines. Our Advance Tasting Program (ATP) was the first club of its kind, dating back to 1977, and focuses on small-production bottlings offered only through the winery. Z List is tailored to Zinfandel lovers, exploring single-vineyard sites across the state. Monte Bello Collector is for those with a deep appreciation for the wines coming from our Santa Cruz Mountain winery estate, Monte Bello. For the white wine and rosé lovers, our Lights & Brights wine club is all about light, bright, and fresh wines.
What benefits do wine clubs offer?
From complimentary tastings to discounts on wine country lodgings to access to rare library wines, RIDGE members receive more than just discounted wines. Joining a wine club earns you complimentary admission to our annual release events, access to vintage preview barrel tastings, and special invitations to exclusive events throughout the year.
With such a wide array of membership options, many of our members are enrolled in multiple clubs. Besides enjoying a wide range of wines, members enrolled in two or more clubs also earn additional benefits, including increased discounts, shipping offers, and exclusive offers.
What’s the best wine club to join?
The best wine club to join is the one that encourages discovery, connection, and an exploration of distinctive wines. Since 1977, when RIDGE launched America’s first winery wine club, we’ve provided exclusive access to small-production bottlings from California’s most historic vineyards, made with a commitment to pre-industrial winemaking. Through tailored wine releases, partnerships with local hotels, and innovative industry collaborations like the Wine Atlas Collective, RIDGE hopes to be your benchmark for exceptional wines, service, and community.
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