San Francisco Chronicle – A New Type Of Investor Is Buying Up California Wineries
Esther Mobley discusses how private equity firms are increasingly investing in the wine industry. From the article:
The return on the investment is one question. What happens to the winery after the exit is another. When wineries are traded like commodities, especially high-end wineries, they may lose some of their distinctiveness in the eyes of their customers. The departures of the people that made the winery an attractive investment in the first place — the founders, winemakers, viticulturists, its institutional knowledge holders — will change the business fundamentally.
Financial Times – Alcohol Sales Hit More By Screen Time Than Health Fears, Asahi Head Says
Who has time for a glass of wine or a beer in the age of TikTok and Video Games? From the article:
Atsushi Katsuki, chief executive of Japan’s Asahi, said “there’s no doubt” the rise of digital entertainment platforms had hit demand for his sector’s products far more than abstinence driven by concerns over the harmful impact of drinking.
“Alcohol used to occupy a much bigger share of people’s entertainment and joy,” he told the Financial Times. “In the past 10 years, the number of entertaining things has grown, including gaming, so I believe alcohol’s share of fun, enjoyment, and happiness has decreased.”
San Francisco Chronicle – Top Wineries in Sonoma County
Esther Mobley’s annual round-up of the best of the best in Sonoma wine country. Joseph Swan is a true gem on this list, and I’m glad they got a shout-out. From the article:
The 2025 edition of our Top Sonoma County Wineries guide highlights the full range of Sonoma County’s bounty, with a mix of fun downtown tasting rooms and idyllic vineyard estates, serving everything from crisp Champagne-method sparkling wine to bold Cabernet Sauvignon. New additions to the list include Auteur, which opened a striking tasting pavilion in the Russian River Valley in April; Dos’ Bar, a natural wine collective whose Sonoma tasting room is modeled on a Wild West saloon; and Freeman, where visitors taste cool-climate wines in pleasantly cool caves.
Lancaster Farming – New Jersey Governor Vetoes Bill to Ease Rules for Winery Events
Looks like Napa Valley isn’t the only place with crazy rules affecting wineries. From the article:
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has vetoed a bill to allow special events in recently constructed buildings on preserved farms.
The bill, which passed the Legislature unanimously, would allow wineries on preserved farmland to host wine tastings in new buildings if the revenue from special events on the farm do not exceed 10% of the farm’s revenue for the year.
Under a 2023 law, preserved farms can host “special occasion events” like weddings only in buildings constructed at least five years before the request for the event is filed.
Montemar Winery is all about handcrafted wines, personal connections, and a relaxed atmosphere with deep roots in Sta. Rita Hills and a winemaking approach that lets the vineyards shine, it’s an excellent stop for those who appreciate small-production wines without the fuss of a traditional tasting room.
Whether you’re exploring the Lompoc Wine Ghetto for the first time or looking for a new favorite spot, Montemar delivers an experience that’s both serious about wine and serious about fun.
2022 Laguna Canyon Due Viti TWO-POINT-O Reserve
The 2022 Due Viti TWO-POINT-O Reserve is a focused and well-executed Super Tuscan-style blend made in California. It balances fruit, structure, and oak without leaning too far in any direction. It’s not a showy wine, but it holds up with time and food, and it reflects solid winemaking from both vineyard and cellar.
We scored it a solid 92 points, and Wine Enthusiast gave it 91. Only 48 cases were made, so availability is limited. For those who appreciate restrained, structured blends with a nod to Italian tradition, this one is worth a look, especially if you’re willing to let it breathe.
The Cave / Ventura Wine Co in Ventura, CA
The Cave isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by the warmth of good food, great wine, and a welcoming atmosphere. The concept of pairing an extensive wine selection with high-quality steak and seafood makes this a must-visit spot for anyone in Ventura.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion (like the birth of a grandchild!) or just looking for a memorable night out, The Cave delivers. We’ll be back, and if you find yourself in Ventura, you should add this to your list.
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