Wine Searcher – The Fight for Wine Freedom
Wine shipping laws are a nightmare for everyone. But for some reason, it is very difficult to effect change. From the article by Nat Sellers:
Tom Wark, the Executive Director of the National Association of Wine Retailers (NAWR) explains: “Wine Freedom is an initiative to engage consumers in the important project of both modernizing alcohol beverage law so that it reflects the modern economy as well as serves consumers.”
“Only 13 states, for example, allow their consumers to legally receive wine shipments from out-of-state wine retailers, wine-of-the-month clubs or wine auction houses.”
Wark continues, “And this is despite the fact that consumers in 47 states may receive wine shipments from out-of-state wineries.”
These restrictions across 37 states ultimately punish the customer. Wark says: “Consumers there have access to only a very small minority of the wines available in the US and often only those wines distributed by the shrinking and consolidating wholesaler tier.”
Napa Valley Features – Wine Chronicles: Making Wine Is Great. Selling It Is a Nightmare.
Ah, sales and marketing, a winemaker’s nightmare. But this is really the case in every industry. Having a great product is no guarantee of success. But a good sales and marketing strategy can make all the difference. From the article by Dan Berger:
I cannot tell you the number of times a skilled winemaker, someone who spent years taking courses in chemistry and microbiology, who worked in menial jobs cleaning wine barrels and hauling hoses, and finally made it to the big time making fine wine, has said to me roughly the same thing:
“Making wine is great. Selling it is a nightmare.” Or words to that effect, often without any gentility and usually with a slightly bitter tone.
Wine Business – San Felice and Thomas Duclos: A Strategic Collaboration to Elevate the Winery’s Three Tuscan Estates
With the retirement of long-time winemaking legend Leonardo Bellaccini, and the appointment of new winemaker Francesca Giuggioli, it looks like San Felice is looking to make sure that the quality stays high, by bringing in a new heavy hitter consulting winemaker. From the article:
“San Felice has selected Thomas Duclos as its consulting winemaker. Known for his disciplined approach centered on purity, balance, and elegance, Duclos will support and mentor the winemaking teams of our three estates — San Felice (Chianti Classico), Campogiovanni (Montalcino), and Bell’Aja (Bolgheri) — helping us innovate and enhance our expertise, showcase each terroir’s unique identity, and elevate the personality and recognition of our wines to new heights,” states Mario Cuccia, President of San Felice.
Wine Business – UC Davis Launches Small-Batch Wine Label
Nice to see this program in place. I can’t wait to see what comes out of this. From the Article:
For the first time in its storied history, the University of California, Davis, is selling wines to the public made by students, staff and faculty from grapes they grow in the Napa Valley and around campus in Yolo County.
Hilgard631 has been in the works for more than 10 years and was made possible by a 2021 state law that allows the transfer of as much as 20,000 gallons of Department of Viticulture and Enology wines to a nonprofit that will handle public sales. With this release, the department bottled roughly 500 gallons of wine to sell.
Money from the sales will support student scholarships. By using the grapes and wines produced through teaching, the department is enhancing sustainability. Prior to these sales, wines made by students, including in a 10-week winemaking course, had to be discarded.
Ampelos Cellars is a winery with a story as compelling as its wines. Founded by Peter and Rebecca Work in the Sta. Rita Hills, it was built on the belief that great wine starts in the vineyard. With a commitment to biodynamic, organic, and sustainable farming, Ampelos produces wines that reflect the land and the people behind them. Now, as the vineyard transitions to new ownership, the legacy of Ampelos continues, with a focus on sustainability and quality.
The 2020 Syrah Gamma from Ampelos Cellars delivers a structured, cool-climate take on Syrah, shaped by biodynamic farming and native fermentation. Ripe black fruit meets savory depth, supported by firm tannins and a long finish. It’s a grounded expression of Sta. Rita Hills has the structure to evolve through 2035.
888 Japanese BBQ in Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas is packed with places to eat, but when it comes to Japanese BBQ, 888 Japanese BBQ is a standout. Located on S Decatur Blvd, this spot has built a strong reputation with a 4.6-star rating on Google from over 1,200 reviews. That’s no small feat in a city known for top-tier dining.
888 Japanese BBQ offers a robust all-you-can-eat menu, with everything from wagyu beef to fresh sushi. The cost is reasonable for the quality you’re getting, landing between $30 and $50 per person. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ pro or a first-timer, you’re in for a treat.
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