WineBusiness – Cork Exempt from U.S. Tariffs
In WineBusiness, Cyril Penn reports in “Cork Exempt from U.S. Tariffs” that the new U.S.–EU framework agreement removes the 15% tariff on cork, officially recognizing it as an “unavailable natural product.” This decision protects Portugal’s cork industry while easing costs for U.S. wineries that rely heavily on natural cork closures.
From the article:
“The U.S.–EU ‘framework agreement’ on trade that took effect last week exempts cork from the 15 percent tariffs on EU exports. This was a major concern for Portugal, which supplies about 70 percent of the world’s cork, and for U.S. wineries, which depend on natural cork closures.
The exemption followed intense lobbying by Portuguese diplomats, the Natural Cork Council, and California’s Wine Institute, all of whom argued that cork has no true domestic substitute.”
Wine-Searcher – US Anti-Alcohol Panel Deplatformed
In Wine-Searcher, W. Blake Gray reports in “US Anti-Alcohol Panel Deplatformed” that Congress has de-funded the ICCPUD (Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Prevention of Underage Drinking) and blocked release of its adult alcohol health report. The move effectively dismantles a major platform for neo-Prohibitionist messaging and represents a rare policy victory for the beverage alcohol industry.
From the article:
“This is what happened last week: the U.S. Congress shot down a report on adult drinking that the Biden administration commissioned from ICCPUD, the Interagency Coordinating Committee on the Prevention of Underage Drinking.
The panel, which has existed for nearly 20 years, had become a stronghold for anti-alcohol advocacy groups that wanted to change U.S. drinking guidelines and policy. But with Congress cutting off its funding and refusing to allow publication of its report, ICCPUD has effectively been silenced, leaving its members and allies in public health scrambling for a new platform.”
Wine-Searcher – Patient Gen X has Wine’s Attention
In Wine-Searcher, Kathleen Wilcox presents “Patient Gen X has Wine’s Attention”, highlighting that although overall wine consumption may be declining, Generation X remains a steadfast and lucrative segment—spending roughly $238 billion on wine and accounting for about 27% of total wine sales, according to NIQ data. The article emphasizes that Gen X, often overshadowed by flashier generations, is poised for the spotlight in the wine industry.
From the article:
“They spend about $238 billion on wine alone, and account for around 27 percent of the category’s sales, NIQ reports.
Often overlooked compared to the noisier Baby Boomers, Millennials and Gen Z, Gen X are about to have their time in the sun.”
VinePair – What Happened to the Restaurant Bar?
In VinePair, the article “What Happened to the Restaurant Bar?” explores the growing trend of restaurants reserving bar seating, revealing how it shuts out spontaneous drinkers and undermines a key element of hospitality. This shift from open-style bar lounging to reservation-only seating may optimize operations—but it leaves early arrivals, walk-ins, and loyal regulars underserved, fundamentally changing the restaurant bar experience.
From the article:
“Guests who try to pop in spontaneously, whether for a drink or a meal, often find that the bar seats are already spoken for. …
The ‘early to my reservation’ guest, who in the past would happily sit at the bar and have a drink (or two) while waiting for the rest of their party.
Second, the ‘on-time but my table isn’t ready’ guest, who’s eager for a cocktail but now has nowhere to go. …
From a restaurant’s perspective, those seats are more than a place to sip a single glass of wine—they’re prime revenue generators.”
La Lama: A Patient Approach to Chianti Classico
La Lama has quietly operated for over five decades in the southern reaches of the Chianti Classico zone, where the climate tends to be slightly warmer and drier than in the north. Owned and run by the Campani family, the estate has maintained a distinctly hands-on approach to viticulture and vinification. Rather than expanding production or chasing trends, the winery has built its identity on restrained volume, long maturation times, and a clear stylistic direction rooted in the Sangiovese grape.
2022 Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato
For those who love bold yet polished reds, the 2022 Il Bruciato from Tenuta Guado al Tasso delivers plenty to talk about. This Super Tuscan blend brings together the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon, the plushness of Merlot, the spice of Syrah, and a touch of depth from Cabernet Franc. It’s smooth and inviting but with just enough grip to keep things interesting. At $34, it’s also an excellent value for a wine from Bolgheri, one of Tuscany’s most celebrated regions. Whether you’re opening it tonight or letting it develop for a few more years, Il Bruciato has plenty to offer.
Xochi: Oaxacan Mexican Cuisine in Downtown Houston, TX
Located in Houston’s Marriott Marquis, Xochi offers a technique-driven exploration of Oaxacan flavors under the direction of acclaimed chef Hugo Ortega. A focused mole tasting menu anchors a broader menu rooted in regional tradition, supported by precise service and confident execution in a polished, modern setting.
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