Being ranked as one of the fastest growing private companies by Inc. Magazine is incredible. The best part is that it gives me a chance to talk about how great the people of Volio are — after all that is how we got to where we are today.Wine is a tough business. Low barriers to entry create a supersaturated landscape and an almost unlimited supply of choice for consumers. In addition, wine hasn’t done a great job adapting to the next generation of drinkers after the baby boomers. With quality wine coming from every continent, the hard part for Volio’s customers isn’t finding wine, it’s finding our wine.Volio is focused on European Imports with a heavy concentration in Italy where the average retail shelf offers 40-50 Italian selections. Italy alone has over 40,000 wineries fighting to export to the US. The only way you get our wine on the shelf, or on a restaurant list, is with a team of incredible people.A few years ago we got together at an all-company meeting to shape our company culture. Our “Values & Cornerstones” looked pretty vanilla and we needed to make it look/feel more like who we were. It was an incredible exercise. Our amazingly talented Director of Marketing sent out a survey with a lot of thought-provoking questions like, “What do you want your customer to say about you after you’ve left a meeting?” The team really engaged (because they are pros) and the responses showed how we were all moving collectively towards a few common themes.The feeling we want our customers to have after we’ve left became our mantra: Be F**king Awesome (or BFAs as we call it). I could have never imagined how much this would change the game for us, but it lit a fire under our company culture and accelerated our growth. We boil everything down to the principles we outlined together under our BFAs and we talk about them weekly, if not daily, through internal and external communication. It’s changed the way we communicate, helps us problem solve, and helps us measure ourselves to our standards.

Be Kind — The world of wine is vast, but the industry is small. Simply put, follow the Golden Rule.
Be Passionate — Passion leads to dedication. It implies an intent to learn and develop, it’s engaging, and if you have it, others can feel it and want to be around it.
Be of Benefit — If not, you are a burden and not a resource to your customer. Attention to detail and a sense of urgency are key drivers here.
Be Bulletproof — In our knowledge of product, market, and customer relationships.
No Bullshit — Listen to what customers say, don’t just wait to talk…and be honest. We aren’t supposed to know it all, but we should be able to find the answers and follow up.

Our growth has come from our team and their collective commitment to see themselves “in” Volio, not “at” Volio. That kind of growth knows no limit!

– Charles Lazzara

I really don’t think good wine is hard to understand. When I’m tasting wine, simple as it may be, my first judgment of a wine’s quality is whether or not I like how it smells. We’re animals, right? I don’t like the smell of sour milk, so how can I objectively say a wine that smells “off” is good? I can’t, so I don’t. But, it is not fair to say that I don’t like a style of wine just because a few of those that I’ve tasted were “off” — gotta keep tasting, hoping for something good. Risk/Reward… get comfortable taking risks on wine you’ve never heard of. 

North Face has a great tagline: “Never stop exploring” — this applies perfectly to the world of wine.

Steps to exploring the world of wine:

1. where is it from?

The world of wine is just that, the whole world! Knowing where a wine comes from might set an expectation, or bring back a memory of that time you were in Tuscany, and help you appreciate it for what it is, not what it isn’t. Hint hint… Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley, CA, doesn’t taste like Pinot Noir from Burgundy in France. My suggestion is to start exploring in Europe. 

Simply put, it is easier to learn the foundational “old world” / European profile of wine first before transitioning to the “new world,” rather than going the other direction.

(Map courtesy of Wine Folly.)

2. what is it made of?

Just because you “love cab” doesn’t mean you love all Cabernet Sauvignon. Explore the lower 48, or Argentina’s great red blends, or all that Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Spain can offer. Leave South African Cab alone though… I’m just sayin’.   🙂

3. how is it made?

Wine is food — it’s not the quantity, it’s the quality. You don’t drink Colgate, you spit it out. Why would you drink a wine that doesn’t come from a vineyard attached to an address you can find on a map? Use your phone for something other than TikTok or a “DM” and check the facts. If the brand’s website doesn’t talk about the dirt, it’s probably because it doesn’t come from a vineyard.

 

I think the goal of buying wine is to pair it with the people you are with. 90+ is meaningless in that context. It’s all about the personality of the wine matching that of your guest, the meal, the sunshine, Tuesday night, or simply to try something new and see what the hell happens.

By: Charles Lazzara

 

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Beyond the well-loved varietals (and we love them too!) like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay, there is so much to explore in the world of white wine! We’ve taken the liberty to break down some exquisite varietals for you by means of rom-com characters, because who doesn’t love a good rom-com?! You’re welcome!

Val delle Rose Litorale Vermentino

Vermentino is like the starlet in every rom-com. A light-bodied character that’s actually quite complex (due to higher levels of phenols). The unknown factor of this varietal means you can get high quality wines without breaking the budget.Its color is pale yellow with light golden hues, has a very intense fruity aroma of summer ripe fruit. On the palate there is an important aromatic note combined with a pleasant persistence. It is a generous and intense wine with great structure and freshness.

Cantine Povero Roero Arneis

Arneis is another white wine grape variety whose story is one of overcoming adversity. Moving back to our rom-com analogy, like every bad boy turns good and gets the girl type, Arneis was revived from near extinction. In this case, the lover who brought him back was Alfredo Currado of the Vietti wine family. From just a few hectares remaining in the 1960s to now more than 600 in Piedmont, Arneis can typically be found in the Roero wine region in northwest Italy.A varietal offering stone fruits, mineral, and loads of freshness. Stainless steel vinification and aging insures the mouthfeel is bright and delicious.

Rivetto Langhe Nascetta Vigna Lirano

Nascetta, a white Piedmontese variety, resembles that of our classic rom-com semi-awkward but actually really cool best friend. It is unusual and was for a long time forgotten. Once it was made into a sweet wine, but due to its difficult and unpredictable nature, it became sparse in production. Through pure serendipity, it was uncorked in 1993 by Elvio Cogno and Valter Fissore, and called “a white wine without equal in the Langhe.”A pioneer for Nascetta, and a seeker of truth for the varietal expression in limestone, clay soils. Minerality with a lean waxy structure make it medium bodied without over complicating the palate. Wonderful and curious.

Picollo Ernesto Gavi del Comune di Gavi

Gavi is made from 100% Cortese grapes. In English, the word translates to courteous, making this varietal our rom-com second love interest – the nice guy (who for some reason never gets the starlet) that your family would love. This is an all-around friendly, agreeable dry white wine.Let’s not split hairs, you’re going for a Gavi di Gavi and not just a Gavi.. so expect 2x the Gavi structure, right? Bright, clean, crisp but aromatic and easy to drink.

Paul Mas Reserve Picpoul de Pinet

Picpoul is a white wine variety from southwest France. In English, the name translates to “stings the lip.” Like the rom-com’s favorite mentor-type (the cool mom, the fun teacher, etc.)  it’s a very old varietal that is traditional and prolific, growing in popularity for its mouthwatering, acidic qualities.Elegant notes of white pear and citrus with mineral and herbaceous tones. Balanced with good acidity and fruit driven notes on the finish. This wine is extremely enjoyable on it’s own or with seafood dishes.Now, grab and glass, put on your favorite rom-com, and give these white wine varietals some love!

Job Description – New York – Sales Specialist

Position Summary – This is a field-based position dedicated to selling and developing the Volio Imports Portfolio. Focus will be on both on and off premise channels and key accounts. Responsibilities include developing relationships with key customers and wholesaler sales teams.

Responsibilities:

Market Execution

• Responsible for sales and distribution in specified list of top accounts as well as developing new business in on and off premise customers.
• Identify sales opportunities, e.g. compliance and sell in with planograms, feature and display mandates, distribution authorizations, and execution.
• Measure the effectiveness of volume driving initiatives and improve the impact of these initiatives on sales results.   
• Provide support and follow through for key account programming (e.g. program execution including closing mandated distribution gaps).
• Share execution best practices to wholesalers and internal team.
• Provide market intelligence to their Regional Manager, continuously improving Volio approach to highest quality retail execution.
• Develop initiatives for local and regional key accounts.
• Identify market specific business development opportunities.
• Maintain calendar of industry events, winemaker travel and marketplace activities.
• Ensure required reports and expenses are turned in timely and as necessary.
• Manage Travel & Expenses and non-price budgets to company guidelines and deliver on financial goals.

Sales

• Achieve monthly sales goals across all Volio Core Brands.
• Visit and review a rotating sample of key accounts within area of responsibility based on sales goals.
• Support local wholesaler with selling in all aspects of the monthly focus for distribution, display and feature support.
• Work with and assist the Regional Sales Director in building an On-Premise and Off-Premise annual business plan including sales, distribution and promotional efforts.
• Execute new product roll-out plans in conjunction with Regional Manager

 

Distributor Management

• Outline and secure tools (POS, pricing, marketing strategy) to achieve plan goals for focus programs.
• Ensure distributor alignment and commitment – Collaborative practices with the distributor’s management and sales representatives.
• Review and evaluate distributor depletions, accounts sold, inventory monthly and mid-monthly with distributor’s channel managers.
• Review and evaluate distributor depletion and accounts sold in relation to Volio’s goals quarterly with distributor’s channel managers.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or equivalent job experience.
• Minimum three years’ experience in the beverage alcohol industry.
• Proven track record in building great relationships with customers as well as internal associates.
• Comprehensive knowledge of the market, the wine industry, products, and competitive brands.
• Outgoing, self-starter, charismatic and articulate…RELENTLESS!
• Willingness to work non-traditional hours as needed (including nights and weekends).
• Strong math skills with ability to understand pricing.
• Computer literate with the ability to use software applications including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
• Extensive local travel and frequent overnight travel required within the state.
• Reside in territory – preferably in the New York area.
• Demonstrates diligence and ability to follow through on all commitments.
• Demonstrates strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrates ability to achieve performance goals with minimum direction.

Compensation:

$70-85k + bonus opportunity (based on experience)

Car Allowance Provided

Travel & M&E budget provided

Local NY candidates only. No recruiter inquiries.

To apply, email cover letter and resume to careers@volioimports.com with “NY Sales Specialist” in the subject line.

 

Looking for the perfect wine cocktails to glam up your event? The Sun Goddess wines collection by Mary J. Blige is just what you need! Sun Goddess Prosecco, Pinot Grigio Ramato, and Sauvignon Blanc make some seriously GORGEOUS concoctions that will have everyone raving about your craft cocktail skills. You can purchase these wines at shop.sungoddesswines.com.

Sun Goddess Wines:

1. Prosecco
2. Pinot Grigio Ramato
3. Sauvignon Blanc

Cocktails:

Good Morning Gorgeous

Limoncello 3⁄4 oz
Lemon Juice 1⁄2 oz
Simple Syrup 1⁄4 oz
Lavender Seeds
Top with 2 oz Sun Goddess Prosecco

Directions: Muddle lavender, mix all ingredients and shake, pour into coup glass, and top with Prosecco. Garnish with candied Lemon wheel with edible gold flake accent and 4 lavender seeds.

Golden Hour Margarita

Sun Goddess Sauvignon Blanc 3 oz
Tequila 1 oz
Lime Juice 1 oz
Cointreau 1⁄2 oz
Simple Syrup 1⁄2 oz
Grapefruit Juice 1⁄4 oz
1 Rosemary Sprig

Directions: Mix all ingredients and shake vigorously with 1 spring of rosemary. Pour into tall glass over ice. Garnish with a beautiful mix of rosemary, mint, and green flower bud crown (edible gold flake accent).

Sun-Kissed Lemon Drop

Sun Goddess Pinot Grigio Ramato 2 oz
Vodka (pref red berry)
Lemon Juice 1⁄2 oz
Simple Syrup 1⁄2 oz
Cointreau 1⁄4 oz
Fresh Berries

Directions: Mix all ingredients and shake vigorously. Serve in a wine glass, rim with sugar/gold flake with fresh berries, rosemary sprig, and edible gold flake accent in glass.

*Cocktails exclusively crafted by Tahiirah Habibi

Looking to host with Sun Goddess Cocktails?

If you want to host a sun-kissed celebration featuring these delicious cocktails, you can download and print (for free!) our Sun Goddess Cocktail Menu to glam up your gathering and share these gorgeous creations with your squad. Saluti!

The #1 Italian Wine Brand, Tavernello, has revamped their wine labels and branding to encapsulate the Italian experience at the American dinner table in a fresh, approachable way.

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A new era for a global brand, Italy’s number-one wine brand, Tavernello, has rebranded with a distinct icon, theme, and identity to bring the everyday Italian experience straight to your dinner table.

With the new message of “Contains: Italy,” you’ll never feel closer to the Italian kitchen and lifestyle as you will when sipping a glass of Tavernello. The refreshed labels, which can be found on shelves across the U.S., connect the wine in your glass to the vineyards of Italy through illustrations that highlight Italy’s rich history and architecture. You’ll be left with an Italian wanderlust lingering in your mind and your mouth.

New labels, same great wine!“Tavernello’s fresh new labels and messaging ‘Contains: Italy’ encapsulate the Italian experience at the dinner table for many Americans,” said Charles Lazzara, Volio’s CEO and Founder. “Their style of the wines match the perfect price point for everyday enjoyment. It’s more than a glass of wine, it’s a memory of Italy or the aspiration of a trip yet to come. ‘Contains Italy’ represents so much more than the fresh new labels – it serves as a reminder that Tavernello has been a staple to the Italian kitchen since the 1980’s. Tavernello has done a wonderful job bottling up all they do to move Italy forward on sustainability while representing 9% of Italy’s total wine production.”In 2021, we entered into a partnership with the Caviro Group, the leading cooperative in the Italian wine sector, for the brand Tavernello in the U.S. market, with Tavernello as Caviro’s flagship brand. Our mutual objectives of innovation, quality, sustainability, and representation of Italian wines founded the partnership, which has only grown stronger with the branding update. Ultimately, a shift in focus on Italian experiences to tell the wine’s story delivers on our mission of connecting American wine drinkers to Italy.

With more detail in the label and the wine glass becoming the new distinctive symbol of Tavernello, the updated design outlines a relevant and distinctive central theme, narrates the richness and variety of the legacy of Italian wine, and creates synergy throughout the portfolio. Not only do the new label designs convey the fresh, aromatic taste of the wines, but they dive into Italian cultural heritage. Each illustration interprets architectural elements that are emblematic of the production areas of ​​these wines.In DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo the Swabian eagle is the coat of arms of the regional capital, L’Aquila – founded in 1254 by Conrad IV, son of Emperor Frederick II: a symbol of elegance, strength and longevity, just like this Montepulciano.In DOC Pinot Grigio delle Venezie the Lion of Saint Mark is the noble symbol of Venice and its renowned Republic. An intense, fragrant flavor is conveyed by the colors selected.In DOC Sangiovese a coat of arms, reminiscent of the Middle Ages, is dominating the entrance of Romagna’s fortresses: it embodies the personality, robust attitude, and uniqueness of this varietal.A never-ending journey waiting to be discovered, Tavernello’s ties to Italian culture pop through this unique expression of Italy’s rich land history. The new labels and branding reflect exactly that. Drink a bottle of Tavernello and “feel the taste of the best vineyards of Italy.”

Tavernello’s new labels are available across the U.S.Tavernello is the everyday Italian wine, crafted for everyone and every occasion. Enjoyed by Italian families for 40 years, Americans can now savor the same Italian experience around their own tables. Life is tastier and more Italian with a glass of Tavernello.

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N°1 wine in Italy, according to sales, source Iri, year ending December 2022, based on packaged goods, total wine by volume sold at grocery self service store > 100 SqM

Source: IMPACT DATABANK – World’s top wine brand 2021

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“As we look to the future, I’m hopeful that the idea of Women Winemakers, senior level women leaders across our industry, and merit-based pay become normalized as an industry standard,” said Charles Lazzara, CEO and Founder of Volio Imports. “The same must be said, and done, for multicultural voices across our industry. To me, these are truths. There is no room for negotiation when it comes to equality. For now, Volio will continue to make its mission to ardently support these pioneering women and BIPOC colleagues who seek to challenge and change the norms of an industry still clinging to a bootlegger era mindset. My desire is that Volio’s culture will always represent the voices of women and men from all cultures equally and continue to forge a path for a more diverse and inclusive industry.”

Italy:

Alto Adige

• Castelfeder
  • Ines Giovanett, Co-Owner, Director of Sales Worldwide, Marketing, Purchasing
  • Sandra Giovanett, CFO

Basilicata

• Elena Fucci
  • Elena Fucci, Winemaker & 3rd Generation Owner

Friuli Venezia Giulia

• Sun Goddess
  • Mary J. Blige, Co-owner with Fantinel Winery

• Fantinel Winery
  • Lara Fantinel, Quality Manager and RSPP (Head of Health & Safety)

Lombardia

• Berlucchi
  • Cristina Ziliani, Shareholder (co-owner) and Corporate Relations Manager
  • Romina Castelletti, Marketing Director
  • Laura Gadola, Web and Social Media Manager
  • Greta Geri, Area Manager Italy North
  • Giorgia Armanelli, Export Marketing Specialist

Piedmont

• Cantine Povero
  • Chiara Gallino, Export Manager
  • Lucrezia Povero, Marketing Manager
  • Maurizia Povero, Accounting Manager
  • Letizia Povero, Junior Winemaker, Truck Driver, and General Manager

Sicily

• Duca di Salaparuta
  • Barbara Tamburini, Consulting Winemaker – Head Enologist Winemaker

Tuscany

• Ventisei
  • Eline Savenys, Owner & Winemaker
  • Alessandra Santinelli, Export Officer
  • Sara Cittadini, Export Officer

• Stella di Campalto
  • Stella di Campalto, Owner & Winemaker

• Cecchi and Tenute Famiglia Cecchi
  • Giulia Cecchi, 5th Generation Leadership
  • Miria Bracali, Chief Winemaker at Villa Cerna
  • Alessandra Tassi, Assistant Winemaker at Val delle Rose
  • Serena Storri, Marketing Director

• Podere Salicutti
  • Sabine Eichbauer, Co-owner

• Fattoria Il Palagio
  • Maria Elena and her sister, Leaders

• Soldera
  • Monica and Graziella Soldera, Co-owners

Umbria

• Scacciadiavoli
  • Liu Pambuffetti, Generational Co-owner/Co-winemaker

• Le Colture
  • Silvia & Veronica Ruggeri, Generational Co-owners

Abruzzo, Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Sicily, Trentino Alto-Adige, Tuscany, and Veneto

• Caviro Group/Tavernello
  • Silvia Buzzi, HSE Manager and Extra & Sustainability Manager
  • Sara Pascucci, Head of Communication & Sustainability Manager
  • Giorgia Lamanna, Winemaker
  • Silvia Fabiani, Brand Manager

France:

Languedoc-Roussillon

• Domaines Paul Mas
  • Elin Mann, Commercial Director
  • Emilie Nelson, Vineyard Manager (under contract)
  • Nora Zagaro, Commercial and Marketing Support Executive
  • Amélie Salat, Communications Manager
  • Coralie Grave, Brand Manager
  • Mariona Riera, Cellar Manager at Teramas-Astruc
  • Audrey Bouttier, Export Manager

Southern Rhône

• Domaine de la Charbonniere
  • Veronique Maret, Winemaker & Generational Owner (her sister too)

Chuck Speed joins Volio Imports as new National Sales Director for Sun Goddess Wines by Mary J. Blige

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DENVER, COLORADO: Chuck Speed has joined the team at Volio Imports as the new National Sales Director for Sun Goddess Wines by Mary J. Blige. He will be the driving force behind Sun Goddess moving forward. With an extensive background in sales leadership and commercial strategy, Chuck is the perfect person to take Sun Goddess to the next level.

“His track record of success in building brands across national accounts and independent trade channels will be key to getting Sun Goddess, and Volio, to the next level,” said Charles Lazzara, CEO and Founder of Volio Imports. “As an industry-leading advocate for emerging multicultural brands, Chuck will be the driving force behind a more inclusive wine culture that we hope will attract the next generation of consumers.”

Before joining the Volio team, Chuck led the McBride Sisters Collection commercial strategy at both national and regional levels and catapulted the company to become the largest Black, woman-owned wine company in the United States. Previous to his work at McBride Sisters Collection, Chuck held a number of sales leadership roles at Edrington Americas, Pernod Ricard USA, and Coors Brewing Company. He earned an MBA from Middlesex University in London, England, and a Bachelor of Business Management at Florida Institute of Technology.

“I am honored to join Volio Imports and lead their multicultural business strategy,” said Speed. “With a mission of connecting the consumer experience to the vineyard experience, Sun Goddess Wines by Mary J. Blige is uniquely positioned to deliver a consumer strategy aligned with that mission.”

Chuck is not only an extremely talented and well-rounded professional, but also a husband, father, and friend who values integrity, respect, and kindness. Chuck is based in Philadelphia, where he resides with his wife and two young children.

 

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About Volio Imports:

Volio is a fine wine importer headquartered in Denver, CO. Volio has been building relationships with multi-generational wineries since 2007 and is honored to bring their wines to markets across the US. Representing 45+ Producers from Italy, France, and Spain, it is Volio’s mission to connect the customer experience to the vineyard experience.

About Sun Goddess:

Sun Goddess is produced with love and passion from the sun-kissed vineyards owned by the Fantinel family. Mary J. Blige and Fantinel have partnered to create a Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Prosecco. This partnership combines beautiful wines from Friuli Venezia Giulia with the powerhouse MJB to bring an amazing brand to life. Mary J. has eight multi-platinum albums, nine Grammy Awards, two Academy Award nominations, and many more accolades. Her love of wine was brought to life when she met Marco Fantinel, and they worked closely together to create these exceptional wines from the Northeast of Italy.

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Contact:

Blake Eve

Director of Marketing

blake@volioimports.com

720-536-5714

www.volioimports.com

Wine on tap is a sustainable, cost-effective addition to your restaurant service. How do you get wine on tap? A kegerator or draft line, gas, and coupler are what you need to be in business. We’ve put together a full step-by-step guide to help you get your kegs flowing!

What You’ll Need:

1. Kegerator or available draft line (even if this is your first time using it) *should be chilled!*
2. Gas (CO2, Nitrogen, or mix of both)
3. Adjustable wrench
4. Coupler (assess ahead of time which one your new keg takes)
5. Optional: Perlick Faucet

How to Set Up a Wine Keg:

Step 1: Turn off gas and remove spent keg.
Turn off gas at regulator and remove spent/less awesome keg.

Step 2: Clean draft line.
Clean draft line to be used for installation.

Step 3: Assess coupler needed for keg.
A coupler is the connector between the top of your keg and the draft line. It has two valves — one for liquid and one for gas. There are different types of couplers, and you first need to assess which coupler your keg takes. The most common Volio keg takes an American “D” coupler. Other common couplers include a European “A” coupler, which is also called a German Slider. Determine if you need to change your coupler for your new keg.

Tip: There is a trickster coupler that looks like it will fit a keg that takes a European “A” coupler, but it does NOT! Don’t be fooled and make sure your European “A” coupler slides on from the side.Step 4: Connect tubes to new coupler.
If a coupler needs to be replaced to install the Volio keg, please ascertain which line connects to the gas on the current coupler and which to the liquid, then disconnect the valves (the coupler will have the gas and liquid inputs labeled). Reconnect tubes to the new coupler (adjustable wrench needed/recommended for this step).

Step 5: Secure coupler.
For American “D” coupler: Twist coupler into top of keg for a secure fit.

For European “A” coupler: Slide coupler edges across the keg for a secure fit. (Reminder: Be advised that some couplers that attach from the top look like a proper fit for the European “A” coupler kegs and alas are not, if it doesn’t slide from the side of the keg, it’s not the proper coupler).

Step 6: Engage locking mechanism on coupler.
For both couplers, pull out the handle and press down, engaging the locking mechanism.

Step 7: Turn on gas.
Once the coupler is secured and locked, turn gas back on. For sparkling kegs, the desired pressure is between approx. 9-14lbs. For still kegs, the desired pressure is approx. 4-10lbs.

Step 8: Test for desired output.
Test keg for desired output.

Step 9: How to troubleshoot (if necessary).
If you’ve reached a desired output, you can skip this step. But if your output is too fast or lacks the desired carbonation for sparkling, first try adjusting the pressure at the regulator. If you’re unable to reach a desirable balance, you can then install a perlick faucet at the spigot to better control the flow of liquid and input of gas.

Step 10: Check connections.
After first successful service with kegged wine, check the keg room/jockey box to ensure that all connections are effective and that the keg is not leaking at any connection point.

Sparkling wine on tap is a sustainable, cost-effective addition to your restaurant service. Volio’s team is happy to answer any further questions you might have to get your sparkling kegs flowing!

Contact your Volio sales rep to discuss our keg options!

FAQs for Sparkling Keg Setup:

• What kind of gas should the kegs use?
  The sparkling kegs can use CO2, Nitrogen, or a blend of both. The Manufacturer recommends CO2, but several top accounts use Nitrogen with great success.
• How much pressure do you recommend?
  For sparkling wine, the producer recommends approx. 9-14lbs of pressure for best results if the line isn’t a long draw. (Long-draw systems rely on a walk-in cooler to store tapped kegs of beer, beer lines that exceed five feet, and a means of keeping the beverage cold between the walk-in and dispensing point.) For still wine, the pressure needed is approx. 4-10lbs.
• Can you use the same equipment as a beer line?
  Yes, you can use the same equipment and this sparkling wine can replace a beer line, just clean it thoroughly before you change over.
• What couplers do the kegs use?
  Volio is transitioning all sparkling kegs to a D coupler (Standard American). There are, however, some remaining ‘A’ German/European Slider coupler kegs still available that are being phased out of use. Please remove the top plastic cap and check inventory upon receipt to ensure coupler fit is as desired.
• Do I need to keep the spent kegs available for pick up?
  Volio sparkling and still kegs are recyclable and not reusable. Please do not keep used kegs, and instead place them in the recycling bin.
• How can you control flow at the tap?
  Some accounts have had success installing a Perlick Faucet with valve, which manages flow at the spigot.

Learn more about Volio’s Kegs:

By Charles Lazzara, CEO and Founder

I received a letter in the mail today from my mom. It was actually my letter, to my family, that I wrote in December of 2002 on my last day studying abroad in Italy. Reading the letter made me cry for many reasons. I realized how much that trip changed the course of my life.Prior to that first trip abroad I had been on an airplane for my 8th grade field trip from Indiana to D.C. — the pilgrimage of America’s youth — and once more on a trip out West with my family where the six of us drove from Las Vegas to Yosemite in an Astro minivan. Aside from being crammed in that van, it was the trip of a lifetime.Travel changes people. It opens the heart and mind if done well; but one must be open to seeing the world, not just passing through it to post selfies. Finding the way is the purpose of traveling, even if there is no real destination. I departed Italy in 2002 having traveled without purpose, but I found my way.Just as Franco Ziliani described to me his feeling on Berlucchi’s first vintage of Franciacorta in 1961, I remember that chill running through my spine when I had my first glass of great wine on the gravel footpath outside the cellar door of Poggerino.Since that first step at Poggerino 15 years ago, I’ve been traveling Europe’s wine regions in search of a feeling I had the month of my 21st birthday, October 2002, in Radda in Chianti… Goosebumps.