Sisters Sell Wine for Winter Funds

Benedictine Nuns Sell Provence Rosé to Fix Monastery Roof

teh Benedictine Monastery Of Jouques, nestled in the bouches-Du-Rhône region, has embarked on an extraordinary fundraising mission. To finance essential roof repairs, the nuns are selling their highly regarded Provence rosé and other wines. This endeavor highlights the intersection of tradition, craftsmanship, and urgent necessity.

Urgent Repairs Needed at Historic Monastery

Sister Armelle, a member of the monastery for three decades, explained that the section requiring repair was added in 1975 to house younger sisters. While a professional carpenter is overseeing the project,the nuns themselves are actively involved in the labor,ensuring the 650 m² roof is restored. According to a report by the French Building Federation (Ffb) published in March 2024, the cost of renovating ancient buildings has increased by approximately 15% in the last year due to rising material costs and specialized labor.

Divine Intervention and Fine Wine: A Unique Fundraising Approach

The monastery is home to around fifty sisters, whose ages range from 23 to 92. To cover the costs of materials and labor, the community is offering three of their wine cuvées for sale: two red wines named “Fidelis” and “Laudem,” and their sought-after “Exsult” rosé, an aop Coteaux wine from Aix-En-Provence.

“Our Laudem red wine comes from vines planted in 1957 and 1967.We age this wine in oak barrels before transferring it to stainless steel tanks,” Sister Armelle detailed. The rosé, a more recent addition to their repertoire as 2020, promises a dry, fruity profile with a light, blue-tinged hue, characteristic of premium rosés from Provence.

Benedictine Nuns Producing Wine. Image for illustrative purposes only.

Sales Goals and Online Availability

The community aims to sell 6,000 bottles by June 15th. Each box of six bottles is priced between 73 and 95 euros through Divinebox.Thus, purchasing 20 bottles effectively finances one square meter of the roof repair.

Beyond their winemaking, the sisters also cultivate an orchard and produce olive oil, lavandin, and rosemary, which are transformed into essential oils and sold in their monastery store.

Did you know? Provence Rosé saw a 20% increase in U.S.sales in 2023, making it one of the fastest-growing wine categories. (Source: Wine Spectator, April 2024)

the Art of Provence Rosé: What Makes it Special?

Provence rosé is celebrated worldwide for its delicate flavors, light body, and beautiful pale pink color. The unique terroir of the Provence region, combined with traditional winemaking techniques, contributes to its distinctive character. The blend of grapes typically includes Grenache, Syrah, cinsault, and Mourvèdre.

Key factors influencing the quality of Provence rosé include:

• Terroir: The soil composition and climate significantly impact the grapes’ flavor profile.
• Harvesting: grapes are typically harvested early in the morning to maintain acidity and freshness.
• Pressing: Gentle pressing of the grapes ensures minimal color extraction.
• Fermentation: Temperature-controlled fermentation preserves the delicate aromas and flavors.

Pro Tip: Serve Provence rosé chilled, ideally between 8-10°C (46-50°F), to fully appreciate its refreshing qualities.

Monastery’s Sustainable practices

The Benedictine Monastery is deeply committed to sustainable farming practices. They employ organic methods to protect the surroundings and ensure the long-term health of their vineyards and orchards.This commitment reflects their holistic approach to stewardship.

Their sustainable practices include:

• using natural compost and fertilizers.
• Conserving water through efficient irrigation techniques.
• Promoting biodiversity by maintaining natural habitats around the vineyards.

How You Can Support The Nuns

Purchasing their wine through Divinebox is a direct way to contribute to the monastery’s roof repair fund. Donations are welcome and can be made directly to the monastery. By supporting their endeavors, you’re helping preserve a historical landmark and supporting a community dedicated to prayer, work, and hospitality.

Understanding Provence Rosé

Provence Rosé has surged in popularity, becoming synonymous with summer and refined sipping. Its appeal lies in its crispness, versatility, and the lifestyle it evokes. The Wine Enthusiast reported a 15% increase in global rosé consumption in 2023, underscoring its growing appeal.

Exploring the nuances of Provence Rosé involves appreciating its subtle flavor profiles, which can range from delicate floral notes to hints of red fruit and citrus.It’s a wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a favorite among sommeliers and casual drinkers alike.

Key Characteristics of Provence Rosé:

Characteristic	Description
Color	Pale pink, often described as salmon or blush.
aroma	Floral, fruity (red berries, citrus), sometimes with herbal notes.
Taste	Dry, crisp, refreshing with balanced acidity.
Body	Light to medium.
Pairing	Salads,seafood,light appetizers,Mediterranean cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Provence Rosé and the Monastery’s Fundraiser

• Why are the Benedictine Nuns selling Provence Rosé?

  They are selling their wine to fund essential repairs to the monastery’s roof.

• What makes Provence Rosé unique?

  Its pale pink color, dry and crisp taste, and delicate aromas, resulting from the region’s terroir and traditional winemaking techniques.

• How can I buy the Provence Rosé and support the nuns?

  You can purchase the Provence Rosé through Divinebox, an online retailer that partners with the monastery.

• What other products do the nuns produce?

  In addition to wine, the nuns produce olive oil, lavandin, rosemary, and essential oils, available at their monastery store.

• Are the Benedictine Nuns committed to sustainable practices?

  Yes, the Benedictine nuns are committed to sustainable farming practices, employing organic methods to protect the environment.

Support the Nuns and Enjoy Provence Rosé

Will you support the Benedictine Nuns by purchasing their wine? What are yoru favorite pairings with a glass of chilled Provence Rosé?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

What are the key legal considerations that sisters should address when undertaking a wine fundraising venture?

Sisters Sell Wine for Winter Funds: A Seasonal Fundraising Guide

Why Choose Wine for Winter Fundraising?

The colder months create a unique prospect for fundraising. As the holiday season approaches and people seek gift ideas and cozy experiences, wine fundraising becomes increasingly effective. Wine pairs well with holiday meals and makes a thoughtful gift. This article explores how sisters, families, and organizations can capitalize on this opportunity by selling wine to raise funds for their winter needs and other causes.

The Appeal of a Seasonal Fundraising Wine Drive

• Adaptability: Wine fundraisers are flexible and can be adapted to different locations and audiences.
• gift Appeal: Wine is perennially a sought-after gift during winter holidays.
• Versatility: wines can be sourced for various price points, catering to different budgets.
• Profit Margins: excellent profit margins often exist on wine sales.

Getting Started with Yoru Wine Fundraising Venture

To realize their fundraising goals, sisters and other organizations require planning and dedicated project management. Here’s a structured approach to kickstarting a lucrative winter wine fundraiser, covering everything from permits to wine selection and marketing.

Legal and Licensing Requirements

Before starting, it is indeed paramount to understand the laws in your state or locality.specific regulations govern the sale and distribution of alcohol. Sisters must research these laws thoroughly.The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) provides facts regarding federal regulations. These are necessary steps:

1. Check Local Laws: Verify if a permit is required for selling wine or the specific regulations for fundraising events.
2. Obtain Licenses: Secure the needed permits, like a temporary alcohol license or a fundraising license.
3. liability Insurance: Consider obtaining liability insurance to cover all risks.
4. Follow Guidelines: Adhere to all regulations regarding sales, taxation, and advertising.

Sourcing Your Wine Selection: Best Wine for Fundraising

selecting the right wines is critical for a accomplished wine fundraising campaign. Consider the tastes of potential buyers and the prices you’re targeting. Research wine regions and consider these categories:

Wine Type	Suggested pairing	Potential Price Range
Cabernet Sauvignon	Red meats, rich cheeses	$15 – $30
Chardonnay	Chicken, seafood	$12 – $25
Pinot Grigio	Salads, light appetizers	$10 – $20
Merlot	Lamb, pasta dishes	$14 – $28
Sparkling Wine	Celebratory occasions	$15 – $40+

Crafting a Robust Marketing Strategy

Effective marketing ensures your wine fundraising efforts reach your targeted audience.Consider these approaches:

• Online Presence: Set up social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) and a fundraising site with detailed information and ordering options.
• Promote Partnerships Collaborate with nearby businesses for cross-promotion.
• Email Marketing Campaign: Build a mailing list and send out regular email updates.
• Create compelling copy: Highlight the beneficiaries, the wine, and the advantages of buying.

Real-World Case Studies and Success Stories

To gain inspiration, review other wine fundraising events’ success, which can guide your strategies. Consider these aspects:

Sisterhood Supporting Local Causes

A small group of sisters in Missouri,known as “The Wine Sisters,” initiated a wine fundraising campaign supporting a local women’s shelter. They partnered with a regional winery, promoting a selection of wines. They sold over 200 bottles in their inaugural year, raising substantial funds. Their strategy included:

• collaborating with business partners.
• Leveraging social media to broadcast event details.
• Using email campaigns to engage customers.

School Fundraising initiatives

Several schools organize similar initiatives, where they sell a selection of wines, usually as part of a larger fall or winter fundraiser. Schools can also create parent volunteer groups who coordinate wine sales. They also:

• Emphasize the goal and beneficiaries.
• Promote exclusive offers and discounts to increase participation.
• Coordinate delivery and pick-up points.

Best Practices for Maximizing profits: Tips for Wine Fundraising

Increase the ROI of your fundraising efforts using these pointers:

• Bulk Purchasing: Negotiate lower pricing by purchasing wine from vendors in bulk.
• Tiered Pricing: Offer different price points to address a diversity of budgets.
• Pre-Ordering: Let customers order and pay beforehand to get a better sense of demand.
• Promotional offers: Increase sales with deals like discounts or bundles.

Key Takeaways for Successful wine Fundraising

Wine fundraising offers a considerable opportunity for sisters and others seeking winter fundraising ideas. Prioritize compliance with legal requirements, selecting the right wines aligned with your audience, and promoting them effectively.