11/29/2025
Thanksgiving is about family, friends, food, and of course wine. But it is foremost about giving THANKS! This Thanksgiving I reflect upon my fourth year at Nakedwines and would like to give thanks for being part of such a great organization. As a winemaker with 42 years of experience, it is empowering and freeing to be able to focus on my craft rather than the intricacies and risk of running a winery. I have also have met and learned from so many great people - from world class winemakers to astute business and tech oriented young people.
But most importantly I have learned that Nakedwines is about more than selling great wine: it is about building and supporting a community of people passionate about the industry. Did you know that:
• Nakedwines and its angels have provided millions of dollars to heart health and health advocacy charities.
• Nakedwines’ Charitable Trust is focused on disadvantaged people and communities in wine regions and in the UK.
• The Montoyo Opportunity Fund, led by winemaker Macario Montoya and supported by Naked Wines, offers grants to support Latino/a winemakers.
• When a recent California winemaker became ill during harvest, Nakedwines launched a campaign that donated all the sales of her wine to help her recover. PLEASE check out the Camile Benitah Fundraiser 6-pak at nakedwines.com.
I know you all have many ways and places to buy wine. However sometimes it is nice to know that your purchases do more than fill your cellar. At NW you fund 300 independent winemakers that make up the portfolio, and help the communities that coexist within the wine industry.
Cheers, and Happy Holiday,
Rudy
