Grab a glass.
Welcome to Grapes & Goods
Founder Monika Rose is no stranger to craft fairs, markets, festivals, and community events. With over a decade of experience as both a vendor and retail buyer with a deep passion for event planning, Monika has a unique understanding of what makes a market special.
She brings together a carefully curated selection of local vendors and artists, offering one-of-a-kind pieces in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy an exceptional wine-tasting experience while they shop for quality goods, making every visit a memorable and enjoyable event.
Maybe I come from a family-owned winery?
(No, but what a dream.)
Maybe I’m a cool sommelier?
(No, but that would be an amazing accomplishment.)
Maybe I have experience in the wine industry?
(Not exactly.)
Why a wine event?
I’m a wine lover. An enthusiast. An everyday person who loves the experience of sipping wine and trying to understand the notes—without looking totally clueless. I love wine festivals, tastings, tours, and that feeling of looking forward to a planned wine date. It’s special.
My first real wine experience? It was on our dating anniversary. My husband and I went to the beautiful Sterling Vineyards (IYKYK—gondola ride with breathtaking vineyard views). I vividly remember this kind older gentleman who could tell we were so out of our element—swirling our glasses, sneaking glances at others, trying to act like we knew what we were doing. Then, he gave us a simple tip: hold the glass down and swirl from the base. Mind. Blown. Suddenly, I felt so sophisticated. Excited that I had learned something new.
Now, to be totally honest—we couldn’t finish all the tastings. It was an acquired taste, and yes, we used the spit buckets (no shame in taking it easy). Then, a little happily buzzed from our newfound love for wine, we somehow found ourselves in the VIP area (oops) and discovered… breadsticks. Much-needed carbs. Once again, the kind gentleman let us sit and enjoy them. Then, we tried chocolate tasting, and when I say it changed my world—I mean IT CHANGED MY WORLD. Dark sea salt chocolate with a gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon? Perfection.
We stocked up on chocolate bars, determined to savor them at home—only to let them go bad (rookie mistake). Never again.
So, why a wine event?
Because I’m an everyday wine lover. I want to make wine feel approachable. I want you to feel excited to learn, welcomed into the experience, and introduced to boutique-style wineries in a way that feels fun—not intimidating.
Fun fact: My love for wine led my husband and me to include a wine ceremony at our wedding—something we randomly looked up and thought, wow, that could be us. (Photos or it didn’t happen—scroll down.)
Also, I’m taking classes! As a Christmas gift, I was given an Intro to Wine course at the Napa Valley Wine Academy, so now I’m officially leveling up my wine knowledge. Cheers to that.
