University Wines Showcase: Vinarmour Wine Carriers
A note from Michelle
At University Wines, we’ve poured our passion into curating a selection of exquisite wines, each bottle handpicked for its exceptional quality and unique character. We know the joy of discovering the perfect wine, and we believe each bottle deserves to be cherished and transported with care.
That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce you to Vinarmour Wine Carriers. Two years ago University Wines became the first brick-and-mortar retailer in the country to offer Vinarmour products, so I asked our friend Brian Hart, founder of Vinarmour, to write this guest post for our newly launched blog to share his story and some useful information about his wine carriers.
Crafted with Precision in Seattle
In the heart of Seattle, where craftsmanship and innovation intertwine, Vinarmour stands as a shining example of the city’s renowned spirit. While we may not be in the aerospace or software realms, Vinarmour embodies Seattle’s commitment to quality and ingenuity.
Unlike many wine carriers mass-produced overseas, each Vinarmour creation is meticulously crafted right here in the Puget Sound region. Our dedicated team understands the essence of fine wine – the need for protection, durability, and uncompromising quality.
Our journey began with my personal quest back in 2018. Frustrated by the lack of trustworthy wine carriers during a flight home to Seattle, I took matters into my own hands, quite literally, in my garage. Through relentless tinkering and dedication, I not only developed, but patented the first fully protective wine travel bag.
From these humble beginnings emerged a company rooted in Seattle’s ethos, producing wine carriers and totes from premium leather and waxed canvas. By melding time-honored techniques with contemporary innovation, Vinarmour brings forth carriers which seamlessly marry functionality with aesthetics. Each piece is a testament to our commitment to safeguarding your cherished bottles while adding a touch of elegance to your wine journeys.
Noticed by the Media
In just a blink of an eye, Vinarmour has captured the attention of the national media, earning accolades for products which demand recognition. Forbes, renowned for its discerning taste, handpicked our Wine Carrier as one of the top Father’s Day gifts in 2023, hailing it as “the epitome of sophistication in wine transportation.”
Meanwhile, Food & Wine, a trusted authority in culinary delights, crowned our Tote Bag as one of the three best in the world, a testament to its unparalleled quality and style.
Not to be outdone, Travel and Leisure have showcased our products in their coveted Holiday Gift Guide, lauding them as “breathtaking” additions to any travel ensemble. And Men’s Journal bestowed upon the Vinarmour Wine Carrier the title of “the ultimate companion for wine enthusiasts on the move,” solidifying its status as the pinnacle of wine travel accessories.
These accolades are not just marks of recognition; they are reflections of Vinarmour’s unwavering commitment to excellence and craftsmanship. Each product is crafted with precision and passion, aiming not just to meet but to exceed the expectations of wine lovers worldwide.
Style Meets Functionality
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Vinarmour’s individual Wine Carrier and 3-bottle Tote blend luxurious leather and durable waxed canvas sourced from some of the most esteemed manufacturers worldwide. The leather straps hail from Horween®, a legendary Chicago tannery revered across the globe for its unparalleled quality in the fashion realm. Meanwhile, the waxed canvas is imported from Halley Stevensons, a Scottish institution that has set the standard for fabric excellence since the 1850s.
Yet, it’s not just about aesthetics – our carriers are engineered to excel. The individual Wine Carrier stands as the pioneer in wine travel bags, offering unparalleled protection against impact, leaks, and punctures during air travel. No more resorting to makeshift bottle wrappings; our carriers ensure your precious cargo arrives unscathed. What’s more, its superior insulation capabilities keep your bottle at the perfect temperature, maintaining it up to three times longer than neoprene totes.
Meanwhile, our 3-bottle Tote boasts a sleek design with a removable leather bottle guard, allowing for flexible carrying options for two or three bottles. And when not in use, it conveniently folds flat, making it ideal for quick grocery runs or other errands.
Backed by the enduring durability of leather and Scottish waxed canvas, Vinarmour products come with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring they’ll be cherished companions on countless wine adventures to come.
Will Work for Every Occasion
What truly sets our individual Wine Carrier apart is its remarkable versatility, making it an indispensable companion for every wine-loving traveler’s journey. Whether you’re off to a sophisticated dinner soirée, an al fresco concert under the stars, or jetting back from a memorable trip to Napa Valley, this carrier is designed to effortlessly adapt to your every wine-related adventure.
Its compact foldability ensures easy packing for vacations, serving as a delightful surprise for those impromptu wine discoveries begging to be brought home as treasured mementos.
We’ve all experienced the raised eyebrows of skepticism from sommeliers when presenting a bottle in a less-than-impressive carrier. With the Wine Carrier, however, you can confidently hand over your bottle knowing it will elicit admiration rather than doubt. Its stunning design never fails to leave a lasting impression, elevating every wine experience with a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Supporting Local Craftsmanship
Being deeply rooted in our local community, fostering its growth and prosperity is a core value we hold dear. That’s why we’re thrilled to collaborate with a like-minded Seattle-based wine store that shares our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and quality.
When you opt for Vinarmour Wine Carriers, you’re not just investing in a superior product; you’re also championing the talents of local artisans and the vibrant network of businesses which call the Puget Sound region home. Your choice reverberates beyond the confines of a mere purchase, contributing to the flourishing ecosystem of wine-based industries in our beloved community. Together, we’re not just selling carriers; we’re weaving the fabric of a thriving local economy, one bottle at a time.
A Sustainable Choice
Beyond their unparalleled artistry, Vinarmour Wine Carriers stand as a beacon of sustainability for the environmentally conscious consumer. Crafted from premium materials renowned for their durability, these carriers are more than just stylish accessories; they’re a testament to responsible consumption.
By choosing Vinarmour, you’re making a conscious decision to minimize waste and lessen your carbon footprint. Our commitment to quality means that each carrier is built to withstand the test of time, reducing the demand for single-use packaging, and promoting a greener, more sustainable future. With every investment in a Vinarmour carrier, you’re not just safeguarding your bottles; you’re also safeguarding the planet for generations to come.
Vinarmour/University Wines Customization Collaboration
Looking to add a personal touch to your wine carrier for that extra special gift? Thanks to our exclusive partnership with University Wines, we’re thrilled to offer custom engraving options that set your carrier apart from the rest.
As the sole retailer authorized to provide customized products, we’re honored to work with University Wines’ customers to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a name, a heartfelt message, or your company logo, our precise CO2-laser engraving ensures a flawless finish on the leather strap.
With lead times as short as just a few days, these personalized carriers are the perfect solution for the wine enthusiast in your life who seems to have it all. And for those seeking to make a lasting impression on a VIP business client, allow the fine folks at University Wines to assist you in selecting the perfect bottle of Burgundy to accompany your personalized Vinarmour Carrier. It’s a gesture they won’t soon forget.