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Tuesday, June 19, 2012 9:06:19 PM
Crazy volume of CAGR DD from RUSTYBUCKSRANCH>>>>>>>..UPDATED 06/19/12 $CAGR list of accomplishments (since Jan. 1st, 2012):
For potential investors and non-investors alike, A compilation of recent $CAGR events and information for DD purposes. Please feel free to add verifiable information (link included) to this list as new information is released.
Latest developments will be added to the bottom of the list as goals are realized.
OTC Pink Current
http://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/cagr/quote
California Grapes International, Inc. (CAGR Tier Change
Thu, Mar 01, 2012 12:00 - California Grapes International, Inc. (CAGR: OTC Link) - Tier Change - The symbol, CAGR, no longer is classified as OTC Pink Limited. As of Thu, Mar 01, 2012, CAGR resides in the OTC Pink Current tier. You may find a complete list of tier changes at otcmarkets.com.
http://stockalyzing.com/pink-otc-market-news.html
Annual Company Disclosure Statement (Revised)
Published: Feb 27, 2012
Period End: Dec 31, 2011
Status: Active
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=73766
Supplemental Information- Beijing Retail California Wine Store Lease OTC MARKET
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) announces today that it has secured a lease for the first retail store in Beijing targeted to open April 1st.
SEC/FINRA approvals
U.S. embassy connections
Fast track through Customs
California Grapes International, Inc. 1st Retail Location
"CGI" has come to an agreement for a lease with the first retail location. The terms of the agreement are for 3 years and will provide for a retail location that allows for approximately 900 sq. ft. of indoor and 300 sq. ft. of outdoor space in one of the premier shopping and residential developments in Beijing.
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) announces today that it has shipped the first container for initial inventory its retail store in Beijing.
"CGI" has completed the consolidation and has shipped the first container for inventory of its retail location in Beijing.
The shipment consisted of 198 unique SKUs. Of the wines included, "CGI" has added over 20 new wineries for market testing in the order that we look to place inventory orders with soon. The wineries included in this shipment that will be made available for retail sales are as a direct result of our first market testing in 2011.
Lease agreement for 1st Retail Store
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=73719
California Grapes International, Inc. Record Wine Sales at the 16th Annual Sichuan New Year Shopping Festival
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPink: CAGR) announces today that its subsidiary, Beijing Jin Long Fei International Trading Co., Ltd., increased its wine sales over the previous year's performance at the 16th Annual Sichuan New Year Shopping Festival in Chengdu, China. Special occasion purchases for Chinese New Year account for approximately 60% of Chengdu Event wine sales, while around 20% of the purchasing is made because consumers view the healthy qualities of red wine as important. A recent survey suggests there are favorable business opportunities for CA vintners in Chengdu and the Sichuan Province as the market continues to grow and evolve.
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-grapes-international-inc-record-wine-sales-at-the-16th-annual-sichuan-new-year-shopping-festival-137750668.html
Investor Kit available:
“CGI” now has an Investor Kit available for download through Company Spotlight.
http://www.cagrapes.com/category/company-update/
THE CC IS POSTED!
http://www.cagrapes.com/category/company-update/
The US Embassy Employees Wine Tasting and Education Event
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
California Grapes International, Inc. In the UAE
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTC:CAGR) announces today that it will work with the American Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE to conduct a multi-day CA Wine event in the cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. "CGI" and the US Embassy plan to conduct a series of 4 strategic tasting events designed to develop and secure new trading lines and business ventures into the UAE for CA Wines.
California Grapes International, Inc. Announces the Hiring of Marble Arch Research, Inc.
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTC: CAGR) announces today that it has entered into an agreement with Marble Arch Research, Inc. as our new Equity Research and Investor Relations firm http://www.marblearchusa.com.
The company's agreement with Marble Arch Research, Inc. is focused and designed to advise on, and assist in providing, a research visibility program and investor relations program intended to stimulate better recognition and understanding of the Company. This agreement will include the following benefits for the company and shareholders;
California Grapes International, Inc. Announces Filing of 2011 Year End Financials and Information Statement
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTC: CAGR) announces today that it has filed "Year End" Financial Statements for 2011 and Year End "Company Disclosure/Information Statement" ending December 31st, 2011.
Fiscal 2011 Financial Highlights:
-- Inventory increased by 83% to $302,906 from $166,050 in 2010
-- Total Assets increased by 30% to $877,123 from $673,003 in 2010
-- Total Sales increased by 303% to $690,343 from $225,537 in 2010
-- Operating loss increased by 61% to $528,372 from $327,782 in 2010
-- Net loss increased by 20% $326,851 from $271,398 in 2010
Jeff Crittenden CEO stated, "2011 was the year of preparation. From the combined efforts of 6 years experience, we are now properly positioned for the 2012, year of execution! As so many domestic businesses have looked at the opportunities of the international market, especially China, as the source for building fortune, the lack of structure, direct engagement and overall business operational requirements needed to succeed have created not much more than a lot of little bites out of a very big pie."
Frank Yglesias EVP of China Operations stated, "We are very pleased, that we now have laid the legal, structural and operational frame work in China to be the top player in the California Wine Industry. China will be the largest wine consumer in the next decade, accounting for 15% of the global consumption."
CAGR working at Marriott/Renaissance Hotels in China
Private Wine Education, Sales & Tasting Event for the Lenovo Group in Beijing. This event was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Beijing on Friday the 9th. Renaissance Hotels are a division of Marriott Hotels (US:MAR).
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
Let's not forget the $CAGR online retail store with FREE SHIPPING to China:
http://kznlg.ahvfn.servertrust.com/
Things are falling right into place according to the business plan. The road map to success as it has been laid out by the company is going perfectly to plan and being executed flawlessly.
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Grape Wall of China article Part 1
California Grapes among those planning wine bars in Beijing’s Sanlitun
Posted on | March 5, 2012
Frank Yglesias of wine importer and distributor California Grapes International says the company will soon open a California wine bar and retail space in Sanlitun Soho. The Miami native says he just signed a three-year lease for 135 square meters of space and plans to have it up and running by May 1.
The Sanlitun-Workers Stadium area has seen several major outlets open that are each backed by a single importer, including The Wine Gallery by ASC in Sanlitun North, a three-floor establishment by Aussino in Regentdale Center, Enoterra by Enoterra Trading in Nali Patio and a soon-to-open Everwines shop by Torres China. Operations such as Enoteca, Changyu AFIP, Zun Club, with involvement from Great Wall wines maker COFOC, are also in the area. And look for more to join them. Last week, someone — also from Miami! — told me he is planning one closer to Tuanjeihu Station and at least one other person is contemplating a California wine bar. Whew!
As for Yglesias, he says his company will have 300 different wines from California and plans free tastings for F&B managers early each week, “decompression” tastings on Fridays, and events to allow customers to “discover Californian wines.” Brands listed in the California Grapes catalog include Alpen Cellars, Andrew Lane, Bumgarner, Igneous, Keller Estate and Russian Hill.
I’ll soon have a longer write-up with Ygliesias, covering everything from import challenges to how to increase retail sales, in the next few days.
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Grape Wall of China article Part 2
Wine Word: Frank Yglesias of California Grapes on wine in China
Posted on | March 6, 2012
Frank Yglesias
By Jim Boyce
I recently met with Frank Yglesias of California Grapes International in his office here in Beijing. We talked about issues facing importers, the wines in the CGI portfolio, and his plans to open California wine bar here in May. He agreed to do a longer interview via email. Here it is:
What is the process for adding a California wine to your portfolio, from the point of connecting with the winery to making the wine available to customers here in China?
We are the largest SKU holders of California wines in China with over 300 in our portfolio. Our process is a multilayer one starting in California. My partners there are homegrown Californians: Brian Bumgarner, our CVO (Chief Vintner Officer), has well over 15 years of experience blending and crafting California wines, while Jeff Crittenden, our CEO, and Jeffrey Wieser, our CLO (Chief Logistics Officer), know the ins and outs of consolidating, shipping, logistics and export document management. These skill sets are of the essence since most wineries in California concentrate on producing wine, not exporting wine.
Our California team takes a hands-on approach and selectively chooses esoteric wineries throughout California’s AVA’s [American Viticultural Areas]. We look for unique varietals and unique stories. We believe that besides the wine, the wineries have a story to tell, and it is our mission to share it with consumers.
Once we identify the wines to ship to China, we educate the wineries on the Chinese market and our responsibility in China to their brands and their wines. We take the same “mother hen” passion that they have and export it with the wines.
In China, our company is a WOFE [wholly owned foreign enterprise], and we have all the legal documents to clear Customs and register CIQ [China Inspection and Quarantine] labels, owning the entire process from arrival in China to our warehouse and eventually to our clients. Our strategy is DtC (Direct to Consumers), or, as we like to say, “from grape to glass”. No one touches it but us.
What is the biggest misconception California wine producers have about the China market?
What I call the “fool’s gold syndrome”. The world is overflowing with analytical data about the Chinese market. But does that make the data right? Not necessarily. When you have lived in China, trying to place your stake in the ground, then you get a realistic view of the Chinese market. Everything that shines is not gold.
What are the three biggest mistakes people make when they are importing wine into China?
When importing California wines, I see these common mistakes or pitfalls.
Making California wines price-driven. This is a mistake. No “two-buck chuck”. The private labeling of California wines. This is very bad because it removes the history from the wine and the understanding of what it took to create it.
A lack of understanding of the California wine industry and its vintages and grape varieties.
You’ve told me you think poor selling techniques are a major reason restaurants don’t move more wine in Beijing. What do you mean by that?
Wine sales in the restaurant industry in the U.S. are driven by interaction between the customer and wait staff. As a former restaurant owner in Miami, I love the interaction I get in a restaurant in the U.S. Sadly, the wait staff in China typically lack the skill and education that are needed for such interaction and that are of the essence of the promotion of wine sales in the restaurant industry.
There is a big difference between good service and being subservient. The practice here of no “tipping” does not help promote better service. It is a vicious cycle in China: consumers don’t tip because they get bad service and the wait staff does not give good service because they get no tips. It’s a chicken-and-egg scenario.
My favorite place to drink wine in Beijing, because of the interaction, is Sureno at the Opposite House Hotel in Sanlitun. The wait staff are genuinely friendly, they know you by name, they know their wines and they can make recommendations. They smile, they look you in the eye, and do so with a respectful elegance. Kudos to the team at Sureno.
What would be the one white and one red you would open to impress someone?
For the white, hands down the varietal would be a California Chardonnay. Most people, and even most restaurants, kill a Chardonnay because they chill it too much. It’s not ice wine, and it’s not a Sauvignon Blanc, so it only needs to be slightly colder that a red. I would open a bottle of 2005 Reserve Chardonnay, from the Spring Mountain district in Napa Valley, produced by Vineyard 7&8.
For the red, my favorite varietal is Zinfandel. Its spicy taste and bold finish put it into a league of its own. I would open and decant a bottle of 2003 Zinfandel from Easton wineries in Shenandoah Valley. This “Zin” pared with Korean food is out of this world. You would think the spiciness in the Zin would not pair with kimchi, but it does, and works with the freshness of the vegetables wrapped around the barbecued meat.
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St. Patrick’s Day at Home Plate BBQ Beijing China with the crew of Rock Center of NBC.
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
(BY THE WAY... That photo of Frank holding up wine for the camera at Home Plate during the Rock Central segment IS NOT the wine of a competitor that he is advertising!)It's California Grapes wine available IN the Home Plate BBQ restaurant. The Rock Center broadcast has shown us that the "American lifestyle" and "American businesses" are being widely accepted and taking charge in Beijing.
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Ceja’s Wine Tasting Event
March 15, 2012
US Embassy Employees Thursday wine night hosted by California Grapes International at the Renaissance Hotel Beijing.
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
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California Grapes International, Inc. Executes Preliminary Reserve Equity Financing Agreement with AGS Capital Group
HENDERSON, Nev., Mar 19, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR), a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, announces today that it has entered the final stages of securing a long term funding solution by way of Reserve Equity Financing “REF”.
“CGI” is expected to finalize negotiations and secure a funding term sheet over the next several days. As the specific details will be released upon execution of the investor’s term sheet, “CGI” has been initially accepted and approved for a Reserve Equity Financing, “REF”, solution from AGS Capital Group, LLC. The dynamic benefits of the “REF” allow “CGI” to manage the process of raising capital through the sale of common shares under a preset purchase arrangement that allows for the company to limit and manage potential shareholder dilution and maximize investment proceeds.
The execution of this agreement between “CGI” and the AGS Capital Group, LLC will represent a financial partnership based on the mutually desired success of “CGI” for the long term. By the nature of the “REF” providing a foundation of a funding commitment, “CGI” will have the ability to provide for a security instrument when approaching and engaging larger investors and institutions with the next phase of our funding efforts. The “REF” is a dynamic financing solution that provides direct investment capital of “up to” a specified funding commitment amount without compromising the company integrity and providing a competitive edge in this critical growth period.
“As we continue to progress in the development and deployment of CGI Retail locations internationally, the foundation of a strong financial partner will be essential. The AGS Capital Group, LLC will allow for a strong financial foundation to build on while providing a very flexible solution through the 'REF'. As CGI will be in control as to when and how to exercise this financing, our ability to manage the long-term company and shareholder value will increase both our exposure and the interest levels of the private and institutional investors of the future.”
-- Jeffrey Crittenden -- CEO “CGI”
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Published email to a shareholder:
From: j.crittenden@cagrapes.com
To: xxxxxx
Sent: 3/21/2012 8:24:07 A.M. Central Daylight Time
Subj: RE: CAGR
Mr. xxxxxx,
Thank you for the email communication and I appreciate your ongoing support for the company.
I do want to apologize however, we have most recently hired a new “Chief Consultant” and I must revert all share holder responses to him as well as any and all financial matters. His name is Ele Kauderer and is the CEO of “The Bull Consulting Group”.
They are a great firm, who in a short time, has done amazing work for our company and has amazing plans on the immediate horizon for our company.
His information is below, feel free to contact him, I think he is in his Miami office this week:
Eleazar Kauderer, CEO
The Bull Consulting Group, Inc.
Www.thebullconsulting.com
NY Corporate : 212-380-1116
Miami : 305-428-2036
Best regards,
Jeffrey Crittenden
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04/12/12: California Grapes International, Inc. Receives $10,000,000 Reserve Equity Financing from AGS Capital Group
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, confirms it has now received a $10,000,000 in Financing from AGS Capital Group, LLC a US based specialist investor group to fund operational expansion in China.
The AGS “REF” program is a long term strategic financing partnership that places “CGI” in control of how and when we raise equity, minimizing any potential dilution or disruption to our capital structure. “CGI” has the discretion to periodically sell common shares when the prices are attractive to do so. “CGI” decides when the funds are raised and how the funds are utilized. Having AGS Capital Group, LLC as a long-term partner reduces financing uncertainty, so we can better focus on achieving our business objectives.
In accordance with the agreement, “CGI” has retained the New York Law firm of Nannarone & McMurdo, LLP to file a registration statement on Form S-1 with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Following the effectiveness of the registration statement, “CGI” intends to become fully reporting with the SEC and seek uplifting of its common stock listing.
“We are very excited to both invest in and partner with California Grapes International, Inc. Given CGI’s tremendous potential and positioning within the marketplace, the Reserve Equity Financing will provide CGI growth capital at a competitive cost,” – Allen Silberstein – CEO AGS Capital Group, LLC.
“The security of the funding commitment from AGS provides a foundation to ensure the future of CGI. As we continue to pursue new opportunities for growth and expansion, we now have a financial partner with the experience, strength and resources needed for the international markets we plan to expand into!” – Jeffrey Crittenden – CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
About AGS Capital Group, LLC
AGS Capital Group provides flexible equity financing solutions for growth-stage and mid cap public companies as well as private companies looking to go public. AGS Capital Group invests in public companies around the world listed on most exchanges. AGS Capital Group performs fundamental analysis including credit risk, technical analysis of market trends and industry, evaluation of management team experience and corporate structure evaluation. Additional information may be found at www.agscapitalgroup.com.
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04-12-12: California Grapes International, Inc. First Quarter 2012 Operations Update
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has completed the first quarter of 2012 and is looking ahead to a very strong year end.
Sales revenues for the first quarter of 2012 ended up at approximately $200,000 and exceeded the company’s expectations. As the company continues to develop and establish a stronger foundation for revenue generation and expansion in China, we are confident in meeting our first year’s revenue and profit goals. “CGI” expects to complete the up-listing process and become fully reporting later this year. We will begin providing revenue guidance once our retail location has established a performance base.
The “CGI” Retail Store was targeted for first part of April 2012 to open. This has been delayed and is now targeted for the first part of May 2012 for the Grand Opening. The creation of a “new” Beijing subsidiary for reduced tax purposes, holiday schedules, demolition times and detailed planning for the right materials and fixtures for the build-out, all contributed to a longer process than expected. As preparation is the key for success, we believe the decision to move the opening date out will greatly benefit all future deployments.
The Bull Consulting Group www.thebullconsulting.com has been retained by “CGI”. With the high level corporate business resources, extensive wine experience and vast international reach of Mr. Kauderer (CEO – The Bull Consulting Group), the synergies of this relationship will help catapult “CGI” in achieving our models full potential. Mr. Kauderer was the critical component in securing the AGS “REF” and is already pursuing opportunities for “CGI’s” expansion into S. Korea. As we continue to refine the corporate structure, Mr. Kauderer also plays a significant role in the alleviation of outstanding debt that has burdened the company for several years.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been an ongoing engagement. The original planned dates for “CGI” at the end of February 2012 ran into several scheduling conflicts. Our Importer, MMI, and some competing food and beverage events being held during the purposed dates, were a main contributing factor in rescheduling. In corporative efforts with US Embassy and Commerce Department, our new dates have now been solidified for May 15th thru 22nd. This additional preparation time has provided for some very valuable developments to come to fruition and additional news will be announced in the coming weeks outlining the entire event schedule and expectations of “CGI’s” position in the UAE.
Marble Arch and “CGI” were brought together through a consulting solution/package offered by way of Constantine Financial Management (CFM). This engagement with CFM ended up to be not in line with the company’s objectives and terminated. The nature of the relationship with Marble Arch in providing an IR resource and generating the Equity Research Report for “CGI” is no longer viable for “CGI”. We are currently communicating and evaluating new IR organizations and will provide information upon finalizing any new agreements.
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04-18-12: CAGR product in Dubai
International Diplomatic Supplies
"Serving the Diplomatic Corps around the world"
(Doing a basic search for "California Grapes International" brings up 61 SKUs available here).
http://www.i-d-s.com/dubai/index.php?searchStr=California+Grape+international+inc.&_a=viewCat&Submit.x=4&Submit.y=6
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04-18-12: California Grapes International, Inc. Finalizes Its Trade Mission to the United Arab Emirates
HENDERSON, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR.PK - News) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has a completed itinerary for the UAE.
The US Commerce Department in Conjunction with the US Embassy (Abu Dhabi) has officially invited, as of January 2012, California Grapes International, Inc. to participate in a series of trade tastings and co-sponsored events specifically designed to develop and establish international export channels into the UAE for California Wines.
The events will take place over a 6 day period of time and will consist of the following highlights;
1) The 15th of May “CGI” will arrive and begin preparations for the first series of tastings in Abu Dhabi
2) The 16th will be a trade specific tasting held at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi
3) The 17th will be an Expat focused tasting for local Expat residents of Abu Dhabi
4) The 18th will be the “Spotlight” Ambassador Dinner with 150 guests in attendance that will be a co-sponsored event with US Beef supplier
5) The 19th will be travel to Dubai and preparations for the next series of event
6) The 20th will be a trade tasting held at the US Consulate in Dubai
7) The 21st will be an Expat focused tasting for the residents of Dubai
8) The 22nd “CGI” Returns to the US!
*The Expat tasting events are being sponsored by the local chapters of the American Business Council and the US Chamber of Commerce.
As a trade development mission, the US Commerce Department, in cooperation with the US Embassy, have been extremely helpful in coordinating this series of events and being able to secure all of the necessary contacts for logistics support, import services and local media awareness and marketing of the effort in the UAE.
This event for “CGI” is an opportunity to meet directly with the wine buyers of many of the most premier hotel and restaurant venues in the UAE. The opportunity to bring 25 different California Wineries directly to the consumers and venues in this market will give our suppliers a much desired exposure and direct market response for the future sales of their wines in this part of the world. As the UAE represents the largest destination port for US goods in the Middle East, this is an opportunity to break into a very underdeveloped market for “CGI”.
“We are very excited to see this event finally come together and it was definitely worth the additional preparation time. With access to hundreds of direct buyers including National and Regional distributors, Hotel and Restaurant venues, US and Local Businesses and the general consuming community, we see this as a great opportunity for establishing immediate sales in the region!” – Jeffrey Crittenden – CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
Safe Harbor Statement
Information in this press release may contain 'forward-looking statements.' Statements describing objectives or goals or the Company's future plans are also forward-looking statements and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the financial performance of the Company and market valuations of its stock, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the 'Safe Harbor' provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Contact:
California Grapes International, Inc.
Jeffrey Crittenden, 855-558-WINE
ir@cagrapes.com
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Three wine bars for Sanlitun: Everwines, Veloce, California Grapes Int’l
Posted on May 2, 2012 by boyce
Look for plenty of cork popping and screw top twisting in Beijing this summer as at least three wine bars are in the works.
The first full Beijing shop by Everwines, a brand of wine importer and distributor Torres, should be fully open in about six weeks. It will be just up the street from Irish pub The James Joyce and include a retail space, an enomatic machine with eight wines by the glass, and several outdoor areas, including a special patio for those who order pricier bottles. I met Torres’ Alberto Fernandez and Damien Shee at Migas over the weekend and they told me they planned some pre-launch events – bonus Taste of Nations event, please! Everwines also has outlets in Shanghai, Nanjing, Xi’an and Chengdu.
Look also for a wine venue called Veloce to open in 1949: The Hidden City. I stopped by earlier this week to see if Krishna Hathaway, one of the key figures involved, was around to talk but he looked busy training in the former Sugar cafe space. I’ll stop by again soon. Hathaway most recently handled wine at Aman Resort at the Summer Palace. You might want to contact him if you plan to pair cheese and wine.
A third venue, a project by importer and distributor California Grapes International, is planned for Sanlitun Soho. I wrote about this project here ( http://www.beijingboyce.com/2012/03/02/squeezing-in-california-grapes-among-those-planning-sanlitun-wine-bars/ ) and it looks like it will open a bit later than expected. Frank Yglesias says things should be ready by late June and that he will be adding about 200 labels to his already large collection of Californian wines.
http://www.beijingboyce.com/
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California Grapes International, Inc. Announces the Launch of Its "Broker Alliance Program"
Last update: 5/3/2012 10:12:00 AM
HENDERSON, Nev., May 03, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- California Grapes International, Inc. (otcpink:CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has launched its new Broker Alliance Program "BAP".
The "BAP" specifically targets the convergence of the California Wines Industry's Export Brokers. The international markets pose a significant challenge for the current export broker's efforts when faced with the competition of the well organized, well support and often subsidized wine producing countries that are currently holding a majority of the "import" market share. Today's Export Brokers are primarily a commission driven group that depend on the corporative efforts of the winery, buyer, logistics providers, import customs officials and federal agencies involved with export compliance in order to succeed. Portfolio options, order sizes, an inconsistent export process and lack of in-market presence are all major contributors to underperforming sales results.
The "BAP" is the solution for providing a more consolidated international sales effort. With no changes to an existing broker's compensation, the value of partial shipments, expanded portfolio offerings, uniformed export documents and policies, an in-market presence and the assurance of complying with the proper import procedures and customs registration, offer greater protections to their wineries and their brands as well as an increased level of service to their buyers that will foster substantially stronger relationships and greater sales
Members of the "BAP" will also become owners of California Grapes International, Inc. through a stock base incentive program designed to reward performance and build long-term value. The "BAP" members will also have access to direct market sales through the "CGI" Retail and Direct to Venue sales channels. This access will generate more opportunities for their wineries to participate in direct promotional and event driven activities in-country allowing them more visibility into the consumer base of the international market.
Independent Brokers account for approximately 20-25% of the export revenue. Transactional direct purchases account for approximately 5% of the export revenue. CGI projects that in the next 6 months, we will acquire 2% of this market segment and we expect a 7% realization in the next 12 months. The consolidation through Joint Venture and or Acquisition is targeted to generate consolidated export revenues of 15-20 million dollars after the 1st 12 months.
"With Export Revenue of $900 Million for CA Wine for 2011, the continued growth of export sales will become much greater and more efficient with the consolidated solution offer by the BAP from Californian Grapes International, Inc. With our initial of Brokers already progressing, we project a 5% acquisition rate by the end of 2012. This is a revolutionary solution for the CA Wine Industry and we are excited about growth potential and strength we will create internationally!" -- Jeffrey Crittenden -- CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
California Grapes International, Inc. Jeffrey Crittenden, 1-855-558-WINE ir@cagrapes.com
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Major Mover; California Grapes International Inc. (CAGR)
05/03/2012 @ 10:49AM
California Grapes International Inc. (PINK: CAGR), a provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distributions and sales for the California Wine Industry internationally, today announced the launch of its new Broker Alliance Program (BAP). The announcement has sent CAGR shares sharply higher in early trading today.
CAGR shares are currently trading 52.17% higher at $0.0035 on above average volume of 85.14 million. The stock has now gained 75% in the last three trading sessions.
CAGR said that its BAP specifically targets the convergence of the California Wine Industry’s Export Brokers and is the solution for providing a more consolidated international sales effort. BAP members will also become owners of CAGR through a stock base incentive program that has been designed to reward performance and build long-term value.
According to Jeffrey Crittenden, CEO of California Grapes International, with export revenue of $900 million for California Wine for 2011, the continued growth of export sales will become much greater and more efficient with the consolidated solution offer by the BAP from CAGR.
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California Grapes International, Inc. Announces Beijing Sales And Operations Update
05/04/2012
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPK:CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, with its (WOFE) Wholly Owned Foreign Entity; Beijing Jin Long Fei International trading Co., Ltd. today announces an update to the following Sales and Operations status.
The company’s “Discover California Wines Campaign” is gaining momentum and the development of the “CGI” Wine Club for our direct retail consumers has exceeded 200 unique consumer registrations. These registrations represent direct consumers that have a purchasing history and will be specifically invited to the Grand Opening of the Retail Store. The “Wine Club” that has been developed and is being offered by “CGI” is modeled after the traditional wine clubs found at most wineries or retail shops in the USA. This will provide for the Retail Shop to have substantial consumer base immediately upon opening.
“CGI” has been very selective regarding the immediate venue sales and placements thus far in Beijing. “CGI” currently has 6 direct venue locations established. We are currently developing specific activities and promotions for these locations that will become a critical part of the new sales training program that has been developed. Promotions and Events are the key with all venue sales and “CGI” works with each location in order to develop and deliver measurable results.
The month of April accounted for over $100,000.00 in sales and we are excited about the increase in sales the Retail Location is projected to produce. With the Wine Club building, the venue promotions lining up and new staff being trained, “CGI” is on target to exceed our in-market projections of 1 Million in sales by the end of 2012.
“The 'CGI' model focuses on the Expat and Tourist business as the target consumer and our retail store fronts will provide the catalyst for the hospitality industry throughout China. As the 3rd most visited country in the world; in 2010 there were over 56 million oversea tourists that visited China with an estimated $45 Billion Dollars in Foreign Exchange revenue. American’s represents a large number of these tourist and ex-pats living in China and they know California wines, they love California wines and now they have a source to purchase California wines! Our goal is to increase our market awareness in both the general consumer and the Hospitality industry to achieve sales revenues of over $20 million dollars by the yearend 2015.” – Frank Yglesias – EVP of California Grapes International, Inc.
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May 23, 2012 - Q1-2012 financials released......
http://www.otcmarkets.com/otciq/ajax/showFinancialReportById.pdf?id=82404
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May 24, 2012 - Q1-2012 Information and Disclosure Statement......
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=82598
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May 31, 2012 - Q1-2012 Information and Disclosure Statement......
Attorney Letter with Respect to Current Information
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=82941
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May 31, 2012 - Q1-2012 Information and Disclosure Statement......
Supplemental Information - Nevada Annual Filing
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=83010
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BLOOMBERG NEWS: Chinese Wine Lovers Go Californian as Taste Widens.
By Elin McCoy - Jun 17, 2012 12:00 PM ET
At Shi Tang, a private wine club in Shanghai, Jesse Coffino circled the table, splashing crisp Graziano chenin blanc from Mendocino county into glasses of 15 eager members.
All were regular drinkers of French wine but had never heard of Mendocino. Coffino had to unroll a map.
“It’s hard to break pre-conceptions in China about where good wine comes from,” said 29-year-old Coffino, a Mandarin- speaking, San Francisco Bay-Area native, the wine’s importer.
French labels, especially Bordeaux, dominate imports in China, with a 45 percent market share, according to VinExpo figures.
Coffino, studio director for prominent Chinese artist Xu Bing, founded San Francisco-based Pacific Brothers Wine company two years ago with his 32-year-old lawyer brother Eli. They’re among the growing number of American entrepreneurs focused on bringing mid-priced, boutique quality California wine to China’s rapidly changing market.
All see potential in the country’s more than a million millionaires and huge aspirational middle class turning on to wine.
California’s Wine Institute international marketing director Linsey Gallagher said in a phone interview that calls from China have convinced her that “California wine could be China’s shiny new toy.”
Excited Converts
Maybe so. By the end of the evening at Shi Tang, Coffino said he had excited converts.
They sipped reds and whites from Calera, Graziano, and Tulocay, the wineries in his portfolio. The favorite was 2007 Monte Volpe Primo Rosso (‘Fox Mountain’ in China), made by Graziano Family of Wines. The fruity Mendocino red blend, neither tannic nor oaky, pairs well with Shanghai’s cuisine.
“We’re going after young middle-class professionals, CEOs and artists,” Coffino explained in New York last month over a glass of spicy Calera Central Coast pinot noir. The China Financial Futures Exchange served the same wine at a recent lunch.
These family-owned wineries have history, which is crucial there, he added, so someone can impress his boss at dinner by recounting the wine’s story.
Discovering California
Interest in mid-range California wine is new in China. Though pioneer importer ASC Fine Wines Holdings lists some well- known brands in its extensive portfolio and Chinese collectors buy pricey auction-grade reds such as Harlan Estate and Opus One, most drinkers are just discovering California makes wine.
Considering that President Richard Nixon served Napa Valley’s Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs 40 years ago at the 1972 ‘Toast to Peace’ in Beijing, why has it taken so long for California wines to catch on?
Napa Valley Vintners communications director Terry Hall explained that only a few wineries exported anywhere before the 1990s. The NVV ramped up efforts in China after the Beijing 2008 Olympics and the economic downturn, sponsoring eight vintner trips to Shanghai and Beijing. That surely helped the state’s exports to China jump 42 percent last year.
Still, small producers remain wary of venturing into the country on their own. Obtaining necessary licenses took Coffino a year. Entry barriers include counterfeiting, customs issues, problems getting paid, and most of all, finding a reliable importer.
Electrical Wire
According to China Customs’ estimates cited in a recent Rabobank China wine market report, 3,863 companies say they import wine. “Companies that import electrical wire suddenly think they can sell wine, too,” Hall said.
That’s why Paul Leary, president of Napa Valley’s Blackbird Vineyards, a producer of excellent cabernet and merlot, signed on with San Francisco wine export and marketing firm Thirvin International.
“Working with a U.S.-based company that takes care of everything adds a level of comfort,” he said.
Brad Tompkins, a former high-tech executive who set up Thirvin in 2010, said he found going into China harder than expected.
“So much California junk with labels like ‘Lucky Red Dragon’ have been dumped into China, they think all California wines are cheap,” he complained when I met him in Hong Kong last fall.
Jim Beam
He’s more sanguine since signing a distribution deal in March with Dxcel International Trading Company, which also handles Jim Beam and American craft beers.
Another player, Nevada-based California Grapes International, opens its first retail shop and tasting bar next month in Beijing’s Sanlitun SOHO district, featuring 100 California labels. One intriguing model for introducing California reds and whites to the Chinese is California Vintage Wine Bar. It opened the first of a planned chain in Hong Kong’s trendy Soho district in 2011. It peddles wines from its 22 partner wineries alongside California fare like heavenly garlic fries and Laura Chenel’s Chevre from Sonoma. Chief branding officer Susan Darwin said the top selling wines aren’t the expected fruity reds. Light, crisp, and aromatic whites, roses, and sparkling wines head the list. The mid-20s to 40 late-night crowd goes for bottlings with wild labels. Another Hong Kong branch opens in August and a first outlet in China’s Guangdong province is next.
Back to Jesse Coffino, who’s leaving for Shanghai next month. Personal relationships are all important in selling wine in China, he said. This trip, he’s meeting with property developers adding retail wine shops to give their developments more cachet.
“You get to know them and maybe you sell something the fifth time,” said Coffino. “In China you have to put in face time.”
(Elin McCoy writes on wine and spirits for Muse, the arts and leisure section of Bloomberg News. The opinions expressed are her own.) To contact the writer of this story: Elin McCoy at elinmccoy@gmail.com
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Manuela Hoelterhoff in New York at mhoelterhoff@bloomberg.net.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-17/chinese-wine-lovers-go-californian-as-taste-widens.html
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California Grapes International, Inc. Announces Preparation of the First Order for the UAE
Monday 18 June 2012 10:08:00 AM
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has completed the UAE (United Arab Emirates) trade mission and begins preparations for the first orders to be shipped.
The UAE trade mission recently completed by “CGI”, in conjunction with the US Commerce Department, has opened the door for “CGI” offered CA Wines in a market dominated by European producers. This event for “CGI” included 25 CA Wineries and 73 unique CA Wines and represented the largest showcase of CA Wine available in the country. Both the “trade” and “consumer” tastings received overwhelmingly positive responses and as a result of the exposure we were able to gain access to the key importers and distributors of the UAE. The trade mission was extended an additional 2 days in order to accommodate the meeting requests.
The results produced orders being finalized for “CGI’s” first 3 customers including the US Embassy, Abu Dhabi National Hotel Group and The National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels. Each of these customers provides substantial exposure to the general consumers as well as the tourism industry. The Abu Dhabi Hotel Group operates a chain of luxury hotels that include the Hiltons, Le Meridien, Sheraton and the new Ritz Carlton opening in August 2012. They also operate 6 retail wine and spirits stores and provide distribution and import services directly. NCT&H also has several hotel locations but, focus on a stronger “direct to venue” sales effort. They also have, through strategic relations, several retail sales outlets that we are looking to expand the CA Wine offering into. The US Embassy has committed to purchase as well for sales in the commissary and the support of ongoing development of “CGI” export efforts into the UAE.
As we finalize the necessary import and distribution agreements, “CGI” is looking at several additional opportunities for strategic relations that foster the implementation of more of the complete “CGI Business Model” being deployed. We expect the first shipment to go out in the next 60 days and further partnership development and customer acquisition in the UAE are already underway.
“The UAE is a unique market that is driven by an expat economy. The opportunities in this market go far beyond the UAE itself and truly make this a strategically desirable location for “CGI” to be located. Wine sales in the UAE have flourished for many years and the available CA Wines are limited to say the least. With the support from the US Foreign Agencies and their commitment to develop stronger trade channels, we are looking forward to the future of “CGI” in the UAE!” – Jeffrey Crittenden – CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
http://custom.fmg.dowjones.com/custom/tdameritrade-com/html-story.asp?guid={1df36469-9a4b-4a98-9b09-c2da6de37092}
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Another direct communication with approval to publish from Jeff to a shareholder.
June 19, 2012
Mr. xxx,
We apologize for the delay in the release of UAE information. There are many challenges to doing business in this country and we want to make sure we have everything in the proper order to make this effort a success. Some investors will never change their position no matter what material is provided. As experience has proven again and again, a message board that can allow for the posting of someone’s opinion ends up being a very aggressive/hostile environment that serves individual agendas for the most part. There are many pictures of the events in the UAE that will be posted as “proof” but, we have been evaluating the proper forum to use.
I have copied Mr. Bumgarner on this communication as he is the one coordinating with our contact at the Commerce Department in the UAE. There will be additional information to come regarding the UAE and CGI.
I hope this helps and thank you for the communication.
Best regards,
Jeffrey Crittenden
For potential investors and non-investors alike, A compilation of recent $CAGR events and information for DD purposes. Please feel free to add verifiable information (link included) to this list as new information is released.
Latest developments will be added to the bottom of the list as goals are realized.
OTC Pink Current
http://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/cagr/quote
California Grapes International, Inc. (CAGR Tier Change
Thu, Mar 01, 2012 12:00 - California Grapes International, Inc. (CAGR: OTC Link) - Tier Change - The symbol, CAGR, no longer is classified as OTC Pink Limited. As of Thu, Mar 01, 2012, CAGR resides in the OTC Pink Current tier. You may find a complete list of tier changes at otcmarkets.com.
http://stockalyzing.com/pink-otc-market-news.html
Annual Company Disclosure Statement (Revised)
Published: Feb 27, 2012
Period End: Dec 31, 2011
Status: Active
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=73766
Supplemental Information- Beijing Retail California Wine Store Lease OTC MARKET
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) announces today that it has secured a lease for the first retail store in Beijing targeted to open April 1st.
SEC/FINRA approvals
U.S. embassy connections
Fast track through Customs
California Grapes International, Inc. 1st Retail Location
"CGI" has come to an agreement for a lease with the first retail location. The terms of the agreement are for 3 years and will provide for a retail location that allows for approximately 900 sq. ft. of indoor and 300 sq. ft. of outdoor space in one of the premier shopping and residential developments in Beijing.
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) announces today that it has shipped the first container for initial inventory its retail store in Beijing.
"CGI" has completed the consolidation and has shipped the first container for inventory of its retail location in Beijing.
The shipment consisted of 198 unique SKUs. Of the wines included, "CGI" has added over 20 new wineries for market testing in the order that we look to place inventory orders with soon. The wineries included in this shipment that will be made available for retail sales are as a direct result of our first market testing in 2011.
Lease agreement for 1st Retail Store
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=73719
California Grapes International, Inc. Record Wine Sales at the 16th Annual Sichuan New Year Shopping Festival
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPink: CAGR) announces today that its subsidiary, Beijing Jin Long Fei International Trading Co., Ltd., increased its wine sales over the previous year's performance at the 16th Annual Sichuan New Year Shopping Festival in Chengdu, China. Special occasion purchases for Chinese New Year account for approximately 60% of Chengdu Event wine sales, while around 20% of the purchasing is made because consumers view the healthy qualities of red wine as important. A recent survey suggests there are favorable business opportunities for CA vintners in Chengdu and the Sichuan Province as the market continues to grow and evolve.
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-grapes-international-inc-record-wine-sales-at-the-16th-annual-sichuan-new-year-shopping-festival-137750668.html
Investor Kit available:
“CGI” now has an Investor Kit available for download through Company Spotlight.
http://www.cagrapes.com/category/company-update/
THE CC IS POSTED!
http://www.cagrapes.com/category/company-update/
The US Embassy Employees Wine Tasting and Education Event
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
California Grapes International, Inc. In the UAE
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTC:CAGR) announces today that it will work with the American Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE to conduct a multi-day CA Wine event in the cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. "CGI" and the US Embassy plan to conduct a series of 4 strategic tasting events designed to develop and secure new trading lines and business ventures into the UAE for CA Wines.
California Grapes International, Inc. Announces the Hiring of Marble Arch Research, Inc.
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTC: CAGR) announces today that it has entered into an agreement with Marble Arch Research, Inc. as our new Equity Research and Investor Relations firm http://www.marblearchusa.com.
The company's agreement with Marble Arch Research, Inc. is focused and designed to advise on, and assist in providing, a research visibility program and investor relations program intended to stimulate better recognition and understanding of the Company. This agreement will include the following benefits for the company and shareholders;
California Grapes International, Inc. Announces Filing of 2011 Year End Financials and Information Statement
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTC: CAGR) announces today that it has filed "Year End" Financial Statements for 2011 and Year End "Company Disclosure/Information Statement" ending December 31st, 2011.
Fiscal 2011 Financial Highlights:
-- Inventory increased by 83% to $302,906 from $166,050 in 2010
-- Total Assets increased by 30% to $877,123 from $673,003 in 2010
-- Total Sales increased by 303% to $690,343 from $225,537 in 2010
-- Operating loss increased by 61% to $528,372 from $327,782 in 2010
-- Net loss increased by 20% $326,851 from $271,398 in 2010
Jeff Crittenden CEO stated, "2011 was the year of preparation. From the combined efforts of 6 years experience, we are now properly positioned for the 2012, year of execution! As so many domestic businesses have looked at the opportunities of the international market, especially China, as the source for building fortune, the lack of structure, direct engagement and overall business operational requirements needed to succeed have created not much more than a lot of little bites out of a very big pie."
Frank Yglesias EVP of China Operations stated, "We are very pleased, that we now have laid the legal, structural and operational frame work in China to be the top player in the California Wine Industry. China will be the largest wine consumer in the next decade, accounting for 15% of the global consumption."
CAGR working at Marriott/Renaissance Hotels in China
Private Wine Education, Sales & Tasting Event for the Lenovo Group in Beijing. This event was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Beijing on Friday the 9th. Renaissance Hotels are a division of Marriott Hotels (US:MAR).
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
Let's not forget the $CAGR online retail store with FREE SHIPPING to China:
http://kznlg.ahvfn.servertrust.com/
Things are falling right into place according to the business plan. The road map to success as it has been laid out by the company is going perfectly to plan and being executed flawlessly.
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Grape Wall of China article Part 1
California Grapes among those planning wine bars in Beijing’s Sanlitun
Posted on | March 5, 2012
Frank Yglesias of wine importer and distributor California Grapes International says the company will soon open a California wine bar and retail space in Sanlitun Soho. The Miami native says he just signed a three-year lease for 135 square meters of space and plans to have it up and running by May 1.
The Sanlitun-Workers Stadium area has seen several major outlets open that are each backed by a single importer, including The Wine Gallery by ASC in Sanlitun North, a three-floor establishment by Aussino in Regentdale Center, Enoterra by Enoterra Trading in Nali Patio and a soon-to-open Everwines shop by Torres China. Operations such as Enoteca, Changyu AFIP, Zun Club, with involvement from Great Wall wines maker COFOC, are also in the area. And look for more to join them. Last week, someone — also from Miami! — told me he is planning one closer to Tuanjeihu Station and at least one other person is contemplating a California wine bar. Whew!
As for Yglesias, he says his company will have 300 different wines from California and plans free tastings for F&B managers early each week, “decompression” tastings on Fridays, and events to allow customers to “discover Californian wines.” Brands listed in the California Grapes catalog include Alpen Cellars, Andrew Lane, Bumgarner, Igneous, Keller Estate and Russian Hill.
I’ll soon have a longer write-up with Ygliesias, covering everything from import challenges to how to increase retail sales, in the next few days.
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Grape Wall of China article Part 2
Wine Word: Frank Yglesias of California Grapes on wine in China
Posted on | March 6, 2012
Frank Yglesias
By Jim Boyce
I recently met with Frank Yglesias of California Grapes International in his office here in Beijing. We talked about issues facing importers, the wines in the CGI portfolio, and his plans to open California wine bar here in May. He agreed to do a longer interview via email. Here it is:
What is the process for adding a California wine to your portfolio, from the point of connecting with the winery to making the wine available to customers here in China?
We are the largest SKU holders of California wines in China with over 300 in our portfolio. Our process is a multilayer one starting in California. My partners there are homegrown Californians: Brian Bumgarner, our CVO (Chief Vintner Officer), has well over 15 years of experience blending and crafting California wines, while Jeff Crittenden, our CEO, and Jeffrey Wieser, our CLO (Chief Logistics Officer), know the ins and outs of consolidating, shipping, logistics and export document management. These skill sets are of the essence since most wineries in California concentrate on producing wine, not exporting wine.
Our California team takes a hands-on approach and selectively chooses esoteric wineries throughout California’s AVA’s [American Viticultural Areas]. We look for unique varietals and unique stories. We believe that besides the wine, the wineries have a story to tell, and it is our mission to share it with consumers.
Once we identify the wines to ship to China, we educate the wineries on the Chinese market and our responsibility in China to their brands and their wines. We take the same “mother hen” passion that they have and export it with the wines.
In China, our company is a WOFE [wholly owned foreign enterprise], and we have all the legal documents to clear Customs and register CIQ [China Inspection and Quarantine] labels, owning the entire process from arrival in China to our warehouse and eventually to our clients. Our strategy is DtC (Direct to Consumers), or, as we like to say, “from grape to glass”. No one touches it but us.
What is the biggest misconception California wine producers have about the China market?
What I call the “fool’s gold syndrome”. The world is overflowing with analytical data about the Chinese market. But does that make the data right? Not necessarily. When you have lived in China, trying to place your stake in the ground, then you get a realistic view of the Chinese market. Everything that shines is not gold.
What are the three biggest mistakes people make when they are importing wine into China?
When importing California wines, I see these common mistakes or pitfalls.
Making California wines price-driven. This is a mistake. No “two-buck chuck”. The private labeling of California wines. This is very bad because it removes the history from the wine and the understanding of what it took to create it.
A lack of understanding of the California wine industry and its vintages and grape varieties.
You’ve told me you think poor selling techniques are a major reason restaurants don’t move more wine in Beijing. What do you mean by that?
Wine sales in the restaurant industry in the U.S. are driven by interaction between the customer and wait staff. As a former restaurant owner in Miami, I love the interaction I get in a restaurant in the U.S. Sadly, the wait staff in China typically lack the skill and education that are needed for such interaction and that are of the essence of the promotion of wine sales in the restaurant industry.
There is a big difference between good service and being subservient. The practice here of no “tipping” does not help promote better service. It is a vicious cycle in China: consumers don’t tip because they get bad service and the wait staff does not give good service because they get no tips. It’s a chicken-and-egg scenario.
My favorite place to drink wine in Beijing, because of the interaction, is Sureno at the Opposite House Hotel in Sanlitun. The wait staff are genuinely friendly, they know you by name, they know their wines and they can make recommendations. They smile, they look you in the eye, and do so with a respectful elegance. Kudos to the team at Sureno.
What would be the one white and one red you would open to impress someone?
For the white, hands down the varietal would be a California Chardonnay. Most people, and even most restaurants, kill a Chardonnay because they chill it too much. It’s not ice wine, and it’s not a Sauvignon Blanc, so it only needs to be slightly colder that a red. I would open a bottle of 2005 Reserve Chardonnay, from the Spring Mountain district in Napa Valley, produced by Vineyard 7&8.
For the red, my favorite varietal is Zinfandel. Its spicy taste and bold finish put it into a league of its own. I would open and decant a bottle of 2003 Zinfandel from Easton wineries in Shenandoah Valley. This “Zin” pared with Korean food is out of this world. You would think the spiciness in the Zin would not pair with kimchi, but it does, and works with the freshness of the vegetables wrapped around the barbecued meat.
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St. Patrick’s Day at Home Plate BBQ Beijing China with the crew of Rock Center of NBC.
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
(BY THE WAY... That photo of Frank holding up wine for the camera at Home Plate during the Rock Central segment IS NOT the wine of a competitor that he is advertising!)It's California Grapes wine available IN the Home Plate BBQ restaurant. The Rock Center broadcast has shown us that the "American lifestyle" and "American businesses" are being widely accepted and taking charge in Beijing.
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Ceja’s Wine Tasting Event
March 15, 2012
US Embassy Employees Thursday wine night hosted by California Grapes International at the Renaissance Hotel Beijing.
http://cagrapes.tumblr.com/
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California Grapes International, Inc. Executes Preliminary Reserve Equity Financing Agreement with AGS Capital Group
HENDERSON, Nev., Mar 19, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR), a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, announces today that it has entered the final stages of securing a long term funding solution by way of Reserve Equity Financing “REF”.
“CGI” is expected to finalize negotiations and secure a funding term sheet over the next several days. As the specific details will be released upon execution of the investor’s term sheet, “CGI” has been initially accepted and approved for a Reserve Equity Financing, “REF”, solution from AGS Capital Group, LLC. The dynamic benefits of the “REF” allow “CGI” to manage the process of raising capital through the sale of common shares under a preset purchase arrangement that allows for the company to limit and manage potential shareholder dilution and maximize investment proceeds.
The execution of this agreement between “CGI” and the AGS Capital Group, LLC will represent a financial partnership based on the mutually desired success of “CGI” for the long term. By the nature of the “REF” providing a foundation of a funding commitment, “CGI” will have the ability to provide for a security instrument when approaching and engaging larger investors and institutions with the next phase of our funding efforts. The “REF” is a dynamic financing solution that provides direct investment capital of “up to” a specified funding commitment amount without compromising the company integrity and providing a competitive edge in this critical growth period.
“As we continue to progress in the development and deployment of CGI Retail locations internationally, the foundation of a strong financial partner will be essential. The AGS Capital Group, LLC will allow for a strong financial foundation to build on while providing a very flexible solution through the 'REF'. As CGI will be in control as to when and how to exercise this financing, our ability to manage the long-term company and shareholder value will increase both our exposure and the interest levels of the private and institutional investors of the future.”
-- Jeffrey Crittenden -- CEO “CGI”
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Published email to a shareholder:
From: j.crittenden@cagrapes.com
To: xxxxxx
Sent: 3/21/2012 8:24:07 A.M. Central Daylight Time
Subj: RE: CAGR
Mr. xxxxxx,
Thank you for the email communication and I appreciate your ongoing support for the company.
I do want to apologize however, we have most recently hired a new “Chief Consultant” and I must revert all share holder responses to him as well as any and all financial matters. His name is Ele Kauderer and is the CEO of “The Bull Consulting Group”.
They are a great firm, who in a short time, has done amazing work for our company and has amazing plans on the immediate horizon for our company.
His information is below, feel free to contact him, I think he is in his Miami office this week:
Eleazar Kauderer, CEO
The Bull Consulting Group, Inc.
Www.thebullconsulting.com
NY Corporate : 212-380-1116
Miami : 305-428-2036
Best regards,
Jeffrey Crittenden
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04/12/12: California Grapes International, Inc. Receives $10,000,000 Reserve Equity Financing from AGS Capital Group
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, confirms it has now received a $10,000,000 in Financing from AGS Capital Group, LLC a US based specialist investor group to fund operational expansion in China.
The AGS “REF” program is a long term strategic financing partnership that places “CGI” in control of how and when we raise equity, minimizing any potential dilution or disruption to our capital structure. “CGI” has the discretion to periodically sell common shares when the prices are attractive to do so. “CGI” decides when the funds are raised and how the funds are utilized. Having AGS Capital Group, LLC as a long-term partner reduces financing uncertainty, so we can better focus on achieving our business objectives.
In accordance with the agreement, “CGI” has retained the New York Law firm of Nannarone & McMurdo, LLP to file a registration statement on Form S-1 with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Following the effectiveness of the registration statement, “CGI” intends to become fully reporting with the SEC and seek uplifting of its common stock listing.
“We are very excited to both invest in and partner with California Grapes International, Inc. Given CGI’s tremendous potential and positioning within the marketplace, the Reserve Equity Financing will provide CGI growth capital at a competitive cost,” – Allen Silberstein – CEO AGS Capital Group, LLC.
“The security of the funding commitment from AGS provides a foundation to ensure the future of CGI. As we continue to pursue new opportunities for growth and expansion, we now have a financial partner with the experience, strength and resources needed for the international markets we plan to expand into!” – Jeffrey Crittenden – CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
About AGS Capital Group, LLC
AGS Capital Group provides flexible equity financing solutions for growth-stage and mid cap public companies as well as private companies looking to go public. AGS Capital Group invests in public companies around the world listed on most exchanges. AGS Capital Group performs fundamental analysis including credit risk, technical analysis of market trends and industry, evaluation of management team experience and corporate structure evaluation. Additional information may be found at www.agscapitalgroup.com.
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04-12-12: California Grapes International, Inc. First Quarter 2012 Operations Update
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has completed the first quarter of 2012 and is looking ahead to a very strong year end.
Sales revenues for the first quarter of 2012 ended up at approximately $200,000 and exceeded the company’s expectations. As the company continues to develop and establish a stronger foundation for revenue generation and expansion in China, we are confident in meeting our first year’s revenue and profit goals. “CGI” expects to complete the up-listing process and become fully reporting later this year. We will begin providing revenue guidance once our retail location has established a performance base.
The “CGI” Retail Store was targeted for first part of April 2012 to open. This has been delayed and is now targeted for the first part of May 2012 for the Grand Opening. The creation of a “new” Beijing subsidiary for reduced tax purposes, holiday schedules, demolition times and detailed planning for the right materials and fixtures for the build-out, all contributed to a longer process than expected. As preparation is the key for success, we believe the decision to move the opening date out will greatly benefit all future deployments.
The Bull Consulting Group www.thebullconsulting.com has been retained by “CGI”. With the high level corporate business resources, extensive wine experience and vast international reach of Mr. Kauderer (CEO – The Bull Consulting Group), the synergies of this relationship will help catapult “CGI” in achieving our models full potential. Mr. Kauderer was the critical component in securing the AGS “REF” and is already pursuing opportunities for “CGI’s” expansion into S. Korea. As we continue to refine the corporate structure, Mr. Kauderer also plays a significant role in the alleviation of outstanding debt that has burdened the company for several years.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been an ongoing engagement. The original planned dates for “CGI” at the end of February 2012 ran into several scheduling conflicts. Our Importer, MMI, and some competing food and beverage events being held during the purposed dates, were a main contributing factor in rescheduling. In corporative efforts with US Embassy and Commerce Department, our new dates have now been solidified for May 15th thru 22nd. This additional preparation time has provided for some very valuable developments to come to fruition and additional news will be announced in the coming weeks outlining the entire event schedule and expectations of “CGI’s” position in the UAE.
Marble Arch and “CGI” were brought together through a consulting solution/package offered by way of Constantine Financial Management (CFM). This engagement with CFM ended up to be not in line with the company’s objectives and terminated. The nature of the relationship with Marble Arch in providing an IR resource and generating the Equity Research Report for “CGI” is no longer viable for “CGI”. We are currently communicating and evaluating new IR organizations and will provide information upon finalizing any new agreements.
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04-18-12: CAGR product in Dubai
International Diplomatic Supplies
"Serving the Diplomatic Corps around the world"
(Doing a basic search for "California Grapes International" brings up 61 SKUs available here).
http://www.i-d-s.com/dubai/index.php?searchStr=California+Grape+international+inc.&_a=viewCat&Submit.x=4&Submit.y=6
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04-18-12: California Grapes International, Inc. Finalizes Its Trade Mission to the United Arab Emirates
HENDERSON, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR.PK - News) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has a completed itinerary for the UAE.
The US Commerce Department in Conjunction with the US Embassy (Abu Dhabi) has officially invited, as of January 2012, California Grapes International, Inc. to participate in a series of trade tastings and co-sponsored events specifically designed to develop and establish international export channels into the UAE for California Wines.
The events will take place over a 6 day period of time and will consist of the following highlights;
1) The 15th of May “CGI” will arrive and begin preparations for the first series of tastings in Abu Dhabi
2) The 16th will be a trade specific tasting held at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi
3) The 17th will be an Expat focused tasting for local Expat residents of Abu Dhabi
4) The 18th will be the “Spotlight” Ambassador Dinner with 150 guests in attendance that will be a co-sponsored event with US Beef supplier
5) The 19th will be travel to Dubai and preparations for the next series of event
6) The 20th will be a trade tasting held at the US Consulate in Dubai
7) The 21st will be an Expat focused tasting for the residents of Dubai
8) The 22nd “CGI” Returns to the US!
*The Expat tasting events are being sponsored by the local chapters of the American Business Council and the US Chamber of Commerce.
As a trade development mission, the US Commerce Department, in cooperation with the US Embassy, have been extremely helpful in coordinating this series of events and being able to secure all of the necessary contacts for logistics support, import services and local media awareness and marketing of the effort in the UAE.
This event for “CGI” is an opportunity to meet directly with the wine buyers of many of the most premier hotel and restaurant venues in the UAE. The opportunity to bring 25 different California Wineries directly to the consumers and venues in this market will give our suppliers a much desired exposure and direct market response for the future sales of their wines in this part of the world. As the UAE represents the largest destination port for US goods in the Middle East, this is an opportunity to break into a very underdeveloped market for “CGI”.
“We are very excited to see this event finally come together and it was definitely worth the additional preparation time. With access to hundreds of direct buyers including National and Regional distributors, Hotel and Restaurant venues, US and Local Businesses and the general consuming community, we see this as a great opportunity for establishing immediate sales in the region!” – Jeffrey Crittenden – CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
Safe Harbor Statement
Information in this press release may contain 'forward-looking statements.' Statements describing objectives or goals or the Company's future plans are also forward-looking statements and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the financial performance of the Company and market valuations of its stock, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the 'Safe Harbor' provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.
Contact:
California Grapes International, Inc.
Jeffrey Crittenden, 855-558-WINE
ir@cagrapes.com
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Three wine bars for Sanlitun: Everwines, Veloce, California Grapes Int’l
Posted on May 2, 2012 by boyce
Look for plenty of cork popping and screw top twisting in Beijing this summer as at least three wine bars are in the works.
The first full Beijing shop by Everwines, a brand of wine importer and distributor Torres, should be fully open in about six weeks. It will be just up the street from Irish pub The James Joyce and include a retail space, an enomatic machine with eight wines by the glass, and several outdoor areas, including a special patio for those who order pricier bottles. I met Torres’ Alberto Fernandez and Damien Shee at Migas over the weekend and they told me they planned some pre-launch events – bonus Taste of Nations event, please! Everwines also has outlets in Shanghai, Nanjing, Xi’an and Chengdu.
Look also for a wine venue called Veloce to open in 1949: The Hidden City. I stopped by earlier this week to see if Krishna Hathaway, one of the key figures involved, was around to talk but he looked busy training in the former Sugar cafe space. I’ll stop by again soon. Hathaway most recently handled wine at Aman Resort at the Summer Palace. You might want to contact him if you plan to pair cheese and wine.
A third venue, a project by importer and distributor California Grapes International, is planned for Sanlitun Soho. I wrote about this project here ( http://www.beijingboyce.com/2012/03/02/squeezing-in-california-grapes-among-those-planning-sanlitun-wine-bars/ ) and it looks like it will open a bit later than expected. Frank Yglesias says things should be ready by late June and that he will be adding about 200 labels to his already large collection of Californian wines.
http://www.beijingboyce.com/
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California Grapes International, Inc. Announces the Launch of Its "Broker Alliance Program"
Last update: 5/3/2012 10:12:00 AM
HENDERSON, Nev., May 03, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- California Grapes International, Inc. (otcpink:CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has launched its new Broker Alliance Program "BAP".
The "BAP" specifically targets the convergence of the California Wines Industry's Export Brokers. The international markets pose a significant challenge for the current export broker's efforts when faced with the competition of the well organized, well support and often subsidized wine producing countries that are currently holding a majority of the "import" market share. Today's Export Brokers are primarily a commission driven group that depend on the corporative efforts of the winery, buyer, logistics providers, import customs officials and federal agencies involved with export compliance in order to succeed. Portfolio options, order sizes, an inconsistent export process and lack of in-market presence are all major contributors to underperforming sales results.
The "BAP" is the solution for providing a more consolidated international sales effort. With no changes to an existing broker's compensation, the value of partial shipments, expanded portfolio offerings, uniformed export documents and policies, an in-market presence and the assurance of complying with the proper import procedures and customs registration, offer greater protections to their wineries and their brands as well as an increased level of service to their buyers that will foster substantially stronger relationships and greater sales
Members of the "BAP" will also become owners of California Grapes International, Inc. through a stock base incentive program designed to reward performance and build long-term value. The "BAP" members will also have access to direct market sales through the "CGI" Retail and Direct to Venue sales channels. This access will generate more opportunities for their wineries to participate in direct promotional and event driven activities in-country allowing them more visibility into the consumer base of the international market.
Independent Brokers account for approximately 20-25% of the export revenue. Transactional direct purchases account for approximately 5% of the export revenue. CGI projects that in the next 6 months, we will acquire 2% of this market segment and we expect a 7% realization in the next 12 months. The consolidation through Joint Venture and or Acquisition is targeted to generate consolidated export revenues of 15-20 million dollars after the 1st 12 months.
"With Export Revenue of $900 Million for CA Wine for 2011, the continued growth of export sales will become much greater and more efficient with the consolidated solution offer by the BAP from Californian Grapes International, Inc. With our initial of Brokers already progressing, we project a 5% acquisition rate by the end of 2012. This is a revolutionary solution for the CA Wine Industry and we are excited about growth potential and strength we will create internationally!" -- Jeffrey Crittenden -- CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
California Grapes International, Inc. Jeffrey Crittenden, 1-855-558-WINE ir@cagrapes.com
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Major Mover; California Grapes International Inc. (CAGR)
05/03/2012 @ 10:49AM
California Grapes International Inc. (PINK: CAGR), a provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distributions and sales for the California Wine Industry internationally, today announced the launch of its new Broker Alliance Program (BAP). The announcement has sent CAGR shares sharply higher in early trading today.
CAGR shares are currently trading 52.17% higher at $0.0035 on above average volume of 85.14 million. The stock has now gained 75% in the last three trading sessions.
CAGR said that its BAP specifically targets the convergence of the California Wine Industry’s Export Brokers and is the solution for providing a more consolidated international sales effort. BAP members will also become owners of CAGR through a stock base incentive program that has been designed to reward performance and build long-term value.
According to Jeffrey Crittenden, CEO of California Grapes International, with export revenue of $900 million for California Wine for 2011, the continued growth of export sales will become much greater and more efficient with the consolidated solution offer by the BAP from CAGR.
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California Grapes International, Inc. Announces Beijing Sales And Operations Update
05/04/2012
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPK:CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, with its (WOFE) Wholly Owned Foreign Entity; Beijing Jin Long Fei International trading Co., Ltd. today announces an update to the following Sales and Operations status.
The company’s “Discover California Wines Campaign” is gaining momentum and the development of the “CGI” Wine Club for our direct retail consumers has exceeded 200 unique consumer registrations. These registrations represent direct consumers that have a purchasing history and will be specifically invited to the Grand Opening of the Retail Store. The “Wine Club” that has been developed and is being offered by “CGI” is modeled after the traditional wine clubs found at most wineries or retail shops in the USA. This will provide for the Retail Shop to have substantial consumer base immediately upon opening.
“CGI” has been very selective regarding the immediate venue sales and placements thus far in Beijing. “CGI” currently has 6 direct venue locations established. We are currently developing specific activities and promotions for these locations that will become a critical part of the new sales training program that has been developed. Promotions and Events are the key with all venue sales and “CGI” works with each location in order to develop and deliver measurable results.
The month of April accounted for over $100,000.00 in sales and we are excited about the increase in sales the Retail Location is projected to produce. With the Wine Club building, the venue promotions lining up and new staff being trained, “CGI” is on target to exceed our in-market projections of 1 Million in sales by the end of 2012.
“The 'CGI' model focuses on the Expat and Tourist business as the target consumer and our retail store fronts will provide the catalyst for the hospitality industry throughout China. As the 3rd most visited country in the world; in 2010 there were over 56 million oversea tourists that visited China with an estimated $45 Billion Dollars in Foreign Exchange revenue. American’s represents a large number of these tourist and ex-pats living in China and they know California wines, they love California wines and now they have a source to purchase California wines! Our goal is to increase our market awareness in both the general consumer and the Hospitality industry to achieve sales revenues of over $20 million dollars by the yearend 2015.” – Frank Yglesias – EVP of California Grapes International, Inc.
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May 23, 2012 - Q1-2012 financials released......
http://www.otcmarkets.com/otciq/ajax/showFinancialReportById.pdf?id=82404
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May 24, 2012 - Q1-2012 Information and Disclosure Statement......
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=82598
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May 31, 2012 - Q1-2012 Information and Disclosure Statement......
Attorney Letter with Respect to Current Information
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=82941
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May 31, 2012 - Q1-2012 Information and Disclosure Statement......
Supplemental Information - Nevada Annual Filing
http://www.otcmarkets.com/financialReportViewer?symbol=CAGR&id=83010
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BLOOMBERG NEWS: Chinese Wine Lovers Go Californian as Taste Widens.
By Elin McCoy - Jun 17, 2012 12:00 PM ET
At Shi Tang, a private wine club in Shanghai, Jesse Coffino circled the table, splashing crisp Graziano chenin blanc from Mendocino county into glasses of 15 eager members.
All were regular drinkers of French wine but had never heard of Mendocino. Coffino had to unroll a map.
“It’s hard to break pre-conceptions in China about where good wine comes from,” said 29-year-old Coffino, a Mandarin- speaking, San Francisco Bay-Area native, the wine’s importer.
French labels, especially Bordeaux, dominate imports in China, with a 45 percent market share, according to VinExpo figures.
Coffino, studio director for prominent Chinese artist Xu Bing, founded San Francisco-based Pacific Brothers Wine company two years ago with his 32-year-old lawyer brother Eli. They’re among the growing number of American entrepreneurs focused on bringing mid-priced, boutique quality California wine to China’s rapidly changing market.
All see potential in the country’s more than a million millionaires and huge aspirational middle class turning on to wine.
California’s Wine Institute international marketing director Linsey Gallagher said in a phone interview that calls from China have convinced her that “California wine could be China’s shiny new toy.”
Excited Converts
Maybe so. By the end of the evening at Shi Tang, Coffino said he had excited converts.
They sipped reds and whites from Calera, Graziano, and Tulocay, the wineries in his portfolio. The favorite was 2007 Monte Volpe Primo Rosso (‘Fox Mountain’ in China), made by Graziano Family of Wines. The fruity Mendocino red blend, neither tannic nor oaky, pairs well with Shanghai’s cuisine.
“We’re going after young middle-class professionals, CEOs and artists,” Coffino explained in New York last month over a glass of spicy Calera Central Coast pinot noir. The China Financial Futures Exchange served the same wine at a recent lunch.
These family-owned wineries have history, which is crucial there, he added, so someone can impress his boss at dinner by recounting the wine’s story.
Discovering California
Interest in mid-range California wine is new in China. Though pioneer importer ASC Fine Wines Holdings lists some well- known brands in its extensive portfolio and Chinese collectors buy pricey auction-grade reds such as Harlan Estate and Opus One, most drinkers are just discovering California makes wine.
Considering that President Richard Nixon served Napa Valley’s Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs 40 years ago at the 1972 ‘Toast to Peace’ in Beijing, why has it taken so long for California wines to catch on?
Napa Valley Vintners communications director Terry Hall explained that only a few wineries exported anywhere before the 1990s. The NVV ramped up efforts in China after the Beijing 2008 Olympics and the economic downturn, sponsoring eight vintner trips to Shanghai and Beijing. That surely helped the state’s exports to China jump 42 percent last year.
Still, small producers remain wary of venturing into the country on their own. Obtaining necessary licenses took Coffino a year. Entry barriers include counterfeiting, customs issues, problems getting paid, and most of all, finding a reliable importer.
Electrical Wire
According to China Customs’ estimates cited in a recent Rabobank China wine market report, 3,863 companies say they import wine. “Companies that import electrical wire suddenly think they can sell wine, too,” Hall said.
That’s why Paul Leary, president of Napa Valley’s Blackbird Vineyards, a producer of excellent cabernet and merlot, signed on with San Francisco wine export and marketing firm Thirvin International.
“Working with a U.S.-based company that takes care of everything adds a level of comfort,” he said.
Brad Tompkins, a former high-tech executive who set up Thirvin in 2010, said he found going into China harder than expected.
“So much California junk with labels like ‘Lucky Red Dragon’ have been dumped into China, they think all California wines are cheap,” he complained when I met him in Hong Kong last fall.
Jim Beam
He’s more sanguine since signing a distribution deal in March with Dxcel International Trading Company, which also handles Jim Beam and American craft beers.
Another player, Nevada-based California Grapes International, opens its first retail shop and tasting bar next month in Beijing’s Sanlitun SOHO district, featuring 100 California labels. One intriguing model for introducing California reds and whites to the Chinese is California Vintage Wine Bar. It opened the first of a planned chain in Hong Kong’s trendy Soho district in 2011. It peddles wines from its 22 partner wineries alongside California fare like heavenly garlic fries and Laura Chenel’s Chevre from Sonoma. Chief branding officer Susan Darwin said the top selling wines aren’t the expected fruity reds. Light, crisp, and aromatic whites, roses, and sparkling wines head the list. The mid-20s to 40 late-night crowd goes for bottlings with wild labels. Another Hong Kong branch opens in August and a first outlet in China’s Guangdong province is next.
Back to Jesse Coffino, who’s leaving for Shanghai next month. Personal relationships are all important in selling wine in China, he said. This trip, he’s meeting with property developers adding retail wine shops to give their developments more cachet.
“You get to know them and maybe you sell something the fifth time,” said Coffino. “In China you have to put in face time.”
(Elin McCoy writes on wine and spirits for Muse, the arts and leisure section of Bloomberg News. The opinions expressed are her own.) To contact the writer of this story: Elin McCoy at elinmccoy@gmail.com
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Manuela Hoelterhoff in New York at mhoelterhoff@bloomberg.net.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-17/chinese-wine-lovers-go-californian-as-taste-widens.html
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California Grapes International, Inc. Announces Preparation of the First Order for the UAE
Monday 18 June 2012 10:08:00 AM
California Grapes International, Inc. (OTCPINK: CAGR) a leading provider of full service export, marketing, promotions, distribution and sales for the CA Wine Industry internationally, has completed the UAE (United Arab Emirates) trade mission and begins preparations for the first orders to be shipped.
The UAE trade mission recently completed by “CGI”, in conjunction with the US Commerce Department, has opened the door for “CGI” offered CA Wines in a market dominated by European producers. This event for “CGI” included 25 CA Wineries and 73 unique CA Wines and represented the largest showcase of CA Wine available in the country. Both the “trade” and “consumer” tastings received overwhelmingly positive responses and as a result of the exposure we were able to gain access to the key importers and distributors of the UAE. The trade mission was extended an additional 2 days in order to accommodate the meeting requests.
The results produced orders being finalized for “CGI’s” first 3 customers including the US Embassy, Abu Dhabi National Hotel Group and The National Corporation for Tourism & Hotels. Each of these customers provides substantial exposure to the general consumers as well as the tourism industry. The Abu Dhabi Hotel Group operates a chain of luxury hotels that include the Hiltons, Le Meridien, Sheraton and the new Ritz Carlton opening in August 2012. They also operate 6 retail wine and spirits stores and provide distribution and import services directly. NCT&H also has several hotel locations but, focus on a stronger “direct to venue” sales effort. They also have, through strategic relations, several retail sales outlets that we are looking to expand the CA Wine offering into. The US Embassy has committed to purchase as well for sales in the commissary and the support of ongoing development of “CGI” export efforts into the UAE.
As we finalize the necessary import and distribution agreements, “CGI” is looking at several additional opportunities for strategic relations that foster the implementation of more of the complete “CGI Business Model” being deployed. We expect the first shipment to go out in the next 60 days and further partnership development and customer acquisition in the UAE are already underway.
“The UAE is a unique market that is driven by an expat economy. The opportunities in this market go far beyond the UAE itself and truly make this a strategically desirable location for “CGI” to be located. Wine sales in the UAE have flourished for many years and the available CA Wines are limited to say the least. With the support from the US Foreign Agencies and their commitment to develop stronger trade channels, we are looking forward to the future of “CGI” in the UAE!” – Jeffrey Crittenden – CEO California Grapes International, Inc.
http://custom.fmg.dowjones.com/custom/tdameritrade-com/html-story.asp?guid={1df36469-9a4b-4a98-9b09-c2da6de37092}
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Another direct communication with approval to publish from Jeff to a shareholder.
June 19, 2012
Mr. xxx,
We apologize for the delay in the release of UAE information. There are many challenges to doing business in this country and we want to make sure we have everything in the proper order to make this effort a success. Some investors will never change their position no matter what material is provided. As experience has proven again and again, a message board that can allow for the posting of someone’s opinion ends up being a very aggressive/hostile environment that serves individual agendas for the most part. There are many pictures of the events in the UAE that will be posted as “proof” but, we have been evaluating the proper forum to use.
I have copied Mr. Bumgarner on this communication as he is the one coordinating with our contact at the Commerce Department in the UAE. There will be additional information to come regarding the UAE and CGI.
I hope this helps and thank you for the communication.
Best regards,
Jeffrey Crittenden
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