Wine travel in the United States: A profile of wine travellers and wine tours. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Garibaldi, Roberta; Stone, Matthew J.; Wolf, Erik; Pozzi, Andrea
• Is Part Of: Tourism management perspectives. Volume 23(2017)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 57
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: Wine tourism -- Culinary tourism -- US travellers -- Tourist behaviour -- Tourism experience; Tourism -- Periodicals; 338.4791
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tmp.2017.04.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-9736

Abstract

Abstract: Gastronomy has always been a central part of the tourism experience but in recent years has become one the main motivations to travel for visitors to a particular destination. Wine tourism represents today a key component of this segment. This paper examines the profile of U.S. wine tourists interested in wine-related activities as well as U.S.-based tour operators offering wine holidays in order to gain a better understating of both wine tourism demand and offerings in the U.S. market. The comparison tries to highlight critical issues that may allow tour operators to enter successfully a market where consumers may tend to shy away from organized travels. Highlights: An analysis of demand and supply of wine tourism in the U.S. is investigated. Wine-related activities are not simply complementary experiences while travelling. Wine tourists have "eclectic" tastes, seeking a large variety of experiences. Destinations and attractions coincide with wine tourist demand. Itineraries offered are customizable and combine gastronomy with other activities. A lack of augmented offerings allowing localized experiences is highlighted.