Kate Hudson launches ‘virtual’ wine

Kate Hudson and her Muse rocker fiancé Matt Bellamy have taken a novel approach to launching their latest wine – allowing players of the online game Farmville to virtually make, bottle and sell it.

Kate Hudson’s avatar in FarmVille2: Country Escape

The pair launched Hudson Bellamy wines in 2011 and this week announced a collaboration with Farmville – an online game which allows players to take on a virtual avatar and tend a virtual farm.

The game was launched on Facebook in 2009 and quickly became its most popular game, holding the position for more than two years. Its latest incarnation, FarmVille 2: Country Escape, will allow players to virtually harvest, press, bottle and sell Hudson Bellamy wines.

Announcing the partnership on Instagram, Hudson said: “Today we launched our collaboration with @HudsonBellamyWines and @FarmVille_2 Country Escape! It’s the first time I’ve ever had an avatar – thinking I may have to get this outfit in real life! Hope you like our addition to the game.”

Founded by Kate and Bellamy in 2011, Hudson Bellamy Wines produces small lot wines with proceeds benefiting The Hawn Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the wellbeing of children in need by equipping them with life skills.

The pair’s latest release, Que Syrah Syrah, is described as dry with “succulent strawberry and watermelon on the nose and palate balanced by a great spine of acidity”, retails at $25.

Hudson added: “Our wines are small lot, so the rustic, community environment in the game fits right in with our values of making a sustainable, local product. Along with making Hudson Bellamy Wine, you can make your own real-world version of my go-to fall recipe, Fig & Burrata Flatbread, in the FarmVille to Table Recipe Book.”

The Hudson Bellamy portfolio also includes a Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Kate Hudson and fiancé Matt Bellamy