Bottled
Emerging winemakers compete for shelf space and industry recognition.
Top Chef + Terroir
The Competition
Far Niente becomes a winemaking laboratory. A dozen emerging enology students from top programs compete enter our facilities, use our fruit, live in our caves. Established Far Niente winemakers mentor them. The drama unfolds naturally.
Each contestant produces their own limited edition wine, available exclusively at Far Niente tasting rooms and through the wine club. It's 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. Cross-promotion that makes sense and provides a new angle for multiple entities.
Timeline
Selection, vineyard assignments, first challenges
Vineyard management, blending workshops
Harvest decisions, fermentation drama
Final judging with Total Wine
Competition Challenges
Blind Blending
Create the perfect blend using only taste and instinct
Climate Crisis
Adapt to unexpected weather events mid-harvest
Innovation Lab
Balance tradition with modern techniques
Market Appeal
Create wines that critics and consumers love
Sustainability
Minimize impact while maximizing quality
Label Design
Create packaging that tells your story
Distribution Strategy
Winery Exclusives
All contestant wines available as limited editions at Far Niente properties:
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:
- 📺 Episode Finale: Total Wine category managers join Far Niente winemakers and judge blind tastings
- 🏪 Retail Placement: Winners earn shelf space at select Total Wine locations
- 📢 Cross-Promotion: In-store displays featuring the competition and Far Niente
- 🎯 Market Validation: Real buyers making real decisions on the spot and on camera
Content Integration
The competition creates content across all platforms, turning winemaking into must-watch entertainment
Main Series
Competition woven into mockumentary
Social Media
Student takeovers and challenges provide support during the offseason
Live Events
Public tastings, events, and polling
Wine Club
Exclusive access and input