Viticulture, for me, is just a fun, quick game, not involving too much thought and a relaxing theme. It's actually a race game, so our plays tend to be very quick and competitive. We hang on to the purple visitor cards to make surprise end-game points.
I like the theming, making wine. I get that the game starts off a bit slow due to the build up, but that's what I like. There are so many choices, and I like that. Kinda, choose your own engine building path style of game.
I have the Tuscany expansion, playing with 4 seasons and the unique workers makes the game even better in my opinion. I can see why some wouldn't like it, as it's a choice salad style game, and on first play through can seem like you're really doing nothing expect putting meeples down.
I actually wish they made a beer themed version of the game, call Bavaria or something.