Rescue Dog Wines has emerged as a unique blend of philanthropy, passion, and premium wine-making, creating a remarkable story that is as heartfelt as it is inspiring. Founded in 2017 by Laura and Blair Lott in St. Helena, Napa Valley, this innovative winery has made a significant impact on animal welfare. Their journey began with a simple motivation—a beloved rescue dog named Daisy—and evolved into a thriving business that donates 50% of its profits to animal rescues across the United States.
The inspiration behind Rescue Dog Wines is deeply personal. Laura Lott adopted Daisy, a spirited boxer, in 2007, and her presence became the driving force for Laura and Blair. They realized they wanted to create something that would help other animals find loving homes. “When I met Laura, she came as a package with Daisy, and it didn’t take long for both of us to realize that we wanted to make a difference for other animals,” Blair recalls. Their experience with Daisy not only fostered their love for dogs but ignited a compassionate mission that would become the foundation of their winery.
This yearning to help led them to purchase a vineyard in Lodi, providing ample space for their growing vision. Unlike many wineries that primarily focus on profit, the Lotts intentionally built their business model around charitable giving and canine advocacy. They wanted their business to be a platform for change, emphasizing that the welfare of animals should come first.
Rescue Dog Wines stands out in the competitive wine market principally because of its purpose-driven philosophy. The Lotts have dedicated half of their profits to various non-profit organizations focused on animal rescue and rehabilitation. This bold commitment resonates with consumers who appreciate authenticity in brands. “We want to ensure our customers know we are genuine in our mission. From day one, we’ve committed to donating 50% of our profits,” Blair states.
They have partnered with over a hundred organizations since their inception, raising over $100,000 for animal welfare. However, as Blair admits, their approach isn’t aimed at financial gain but at creating meaningful change. The model they adopted is one that they hope more companies would emulate. Their story teaches that businesses can thrive while positively impacting the community by aligning with meaningful causes.
A critical aspect of the brand’s strategy encompasses engaging with the community through wine donations and involvement in fundraising events. By donating wine for auctions or gift bags, Rescue Dog Wines plays a vital role in helping non-profits generate much-needed funds. This initiative has been successful, with multiple organizations reporting enhanced fundraising results attributed to the appeal of their unique wine labels featuring dogs.
To further amplify their mission, the Lotts attend fundraising events, where they set up tasting booths. This not only promotes their wines but also raises awareness about animal rescue, allowing them to build a community of loyal customers who share their love for dogs and wine. This approach has created a win-win situation, where both the brand and animal shelters benefit significantly.
The branding of Rescue Dog Wines is as distinctive as its mission. The labels designed by local artist Lawrence Peters capture the essence of both the wines and the spirit of the animals they support. Each label features a dog or cat, showcasing the Lotts’ connection to the animals. The Cabernet Sauvignon label, for example, portrays a bulldog that mirrors the bold nature of the wine produced from Lodi grapes. Furthermore, their sparkling wines celebrate Daisy’s memory and joyful spirit.
In collaboration with expert winemakers Susana Rodriguez Vasquez and Eric Donaldson, the Lotts offer a diverse array of wines ranging from robust reds to elegant rosés and Sauvignon Blancs. Their commitment to quality is as robust as their commitment to philanthropy, ensuring the wines resonate with consumers who appreciate both taste and the heart behind the brand.
Though still a small boutique winery, Rescue Dog Wines harbors ambitious plans for the future. The Lotts aim to expand their reach while maintaining their commitment to animal welfare. “We find meaning in what we do, which fuels our daily efforts,” says Blair. Their consumers, who share their passion, inspire them to continue their journey of fostering connections and promoting animal rescues.
In a world increasingly demanding corporate responsibility, Rescue Dog Wines serves as a testament to how businesses can intertwine purpose with passion. Their story inspires us to reflect on the impact we can have through our choices, reminding us that there is much to celebrate when love and compassion are at the forefront of our endeavors.
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