Team C&J
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates has unveiled its latest innovation with the introduction of the Chateau Ste. Michelle LIGHT line offers lighter variations of their classic Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc wines tailored for health-conscious consumers. Scheduled for a nationwide release this spring at $12.99 per bottle, these selections promise full flavors sourced from renowned regions within Washington state while boasting reduced sugar levels and lower alcohol content. This strategic move reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and responsiveness to evolving consumer preferences in the dynamic wine market. Meanwhile, the Wine Institute has announced plans for a comprehensive communications initiative aimed at educating consumers and policymakers about wine’s unique attributes and benefits amidst shifting public health policies and intensified competition. Additionally, the ongoing debate surrounding Champagne bottleneck foils underscores the broader tensions within the appellation regarding tradition, sustainability, and branding. As producers navigate these complexities, the industry continues to evolve, driven by a commitment to quality, sustainability, and consumer satisfaction.
Ste. Michelle Introduces Chateau Ste. Michelle LIGHT Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates has introduced a new line called Chateau Ste. Michelle LIGHT features lighter versions of their Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Launching nationwide this spring, these wines are tailored for consumers looking for health-conscious options, containing only 80 calories, zero sugar, and lower carbs and alcohol levels. Aimed at maintaining the quality and taste synonymous with Chateau Ste. Michelle, these wines are priced at $12.99 and are available in select retail grocery stores. The LIGHT Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc source their grapes from Washington state, specifically the Columbia Valley and Horse Heaven Hills AVA, ensuring full flavors at lower sugar levels. This initiative is part of the winery’s response to consumer interest in lighter, flavorful wines suitable for occasions like brunch or poolside gatherings.
Wine Institute Developing New Communications Initiative
The Wine Institute is launching a new communications initiative aimed at educating both consumers and policymakers about the unique and beneficial aspects of wine, distinguishing it from other beverages. This initiative, announced by Wine Institute President and CEO Bobby Koch at the U.S. Sustainable Winegrowing Summit in Lodi, California, is a response to the changing focus of public health policies and competitive pressures from other alcohol sectors like distilled spirits and beer. The initiative will highlight wine’s positive qualities and the industry’s commitment to sustainability, which Koch believes will enhance public relations and provide a resilient foundation for the industry. Key to the success of this initiative is the collective support and involvement of the entire wine community.
Foil Grabs Champagne by the Neck | Wine-Searcher News & Features
The debate over champagne bottleneck foils has resurfaced in Champagne, reflecting broader conflicts within the appellation regarding tradition and modernization. Following the EU’s decision to make neck foils optional in 2023, some innovative producers like Emeline Desloovere and Alexandre Lamblot promptly abandoned them for ecological reasons, opting for alternatives like paper strips. However, despite the European Union’s liberalization, the Champagne governing body, CIVC, is pushing to reinstate mandatory neck foils in the appellation’s rules, arguing it preserves the traditional image and consumer recognition of Champagne. This has spurred tension among producers, some of whom have already adapted their packaging. The controversy highlights the broader challenges of balancing tradition, ecological considerations, and modern branding within a tightly regulated and highly traditional industry.
Prisoner Wine Company’s Corrections Artist Label Benefits Prison Reform
The Prisoner Wine Company has launched “Corrections,” a wine label initiative featuring artwork by formerly incarcerated artists, in response to criticism over its prison-themed branding. The project aims to raise awareness and support for prison reform, with its latest release showcasing a piece by artist Jesse Krimes, created from prison bed sheets during his incarceration. This series not only highlights issues within the prison system but also supports the Center for Art and Advocacy, which Krimes co-founded to help formerly incarcerated artists. The initiative has generated significant donations, demonstrating The Prisoner Wine Company’s commitment to addressing and contributing to societal change.
Bandit Wines Introduces ‘Go Explore National Parks’ Innovative Augmented-Reality Wine Packaging
Bandit Wines has launched an innovative Augmented Reality (AR) experience that allows wine enthusiasts to virtually explore America’s National Parks, such as Yosemite and Olympic National Park, through a 360-degree video portal. Developed in collaboration with Aircards and powered by Snap’s Camera Kit, this interactive platform can be accessed by scanning QR codes on Bandit’s in-store displays. Complementing Bandit’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the initiative not only promotes outdoor exploration but also aligns with its eco-conscious packaging solutions and its dedication to donating 1% of annual sales to environmental nonprofits. Furthermore, Bandit Wines is enhancing customer engagement with a sweepstakes offering winners an Annual National Parks Pass, encouraging physical visits to these landscapes the AR feature showcases.
St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery Welcomes Brenae Royal, Director of Vineyard Operations
St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery has appointed Brenae Royal as Director of Vineyard Operations, overseeing the winery’s three Napa Valley vineyard locations totaling 1639 acres, with all land certified Napa Green. With extensive experience at Gallo’s Monte Rosso Vineyard in Sonoma Valley and a background in sustainable and organic farming, Brenae brings expertise in vineyard management and a commitment to sustainability to her new role. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in agriculture and winemaking. St. Supéry’s leadership expresses enthusiasm over Brenae’s appointment, highlighting her valuable contributions to enhancing vineyard operations and sustainability efforts at the winery.
PinotFest 2024, taking place from May 17-19, is a three-day celebration of Pinot Noir, combining wine tastings, a technical conference, and culinary delights in Anderson Valley wine country, a prime location for Pinot Noir cultivation due to its cool climate and sunny summers. This 25th annual event not only features discussions and sessions with wine experts and a range of tastings but also includes unique experiences like the Bubble Lounge for sparkling Pinot Noir and a community barbecue. Additional activities include a Sunday Open House allowing visitors to meet winemakers and sample food specifically paired with Pinot Noir. The event wraps up with an online auction benefiting local community services, with bids on exclusive wine lots encouraged. For more details or to purchase tickets, visitors can go to the festival’s website.
Who Owns the Most Vineyard Land in Napa?
The vineyard ownership landscape in Napa Valley has seen significant changes in recent years, with key players like the Laird family, Silverado Investment Management Co., and the Gamble family holding substantial vineyard acreage. Notable acquisitions have reshaped vineyard ownership, including Gallo’s purchase of Rombauer Family Vineyards and Lawrence Wine Estates, which acquired multiple prime properties. The article discusses major transactions, such as Joseph Phelps Vineyards bought by LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, highlighting the evolving dynamics of vineyard ownership in Napa Valley. The region has also faced land-use disputes over vineyard development projects, showcasing the ongoing challenges in balancing agricultural expansion with environmental conservation in this renowned wine region.
How Catena Zapata is changing the game on lightweight bottles
Bodegas Catena Zapata is spearheading an initiative to promote lighter wine bottles, emphasizing the critical role of sustainability in the wine industry’s future. Catena Zapata has already reduced the weight of its bottles significantly, with its Malbec now poured in a 45% lighter bottle in various locations across the globe. This shift has led to a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions and glass weight, contributing to overall sustainability efforts. The company is actively engaged in collaborating with manufacturers and implementing measures to reduce carbon emissions, exemplifying its commitment to sustainability. Additionally, Catena’s education campaign aims to educate trade and consumers on the environmental benefits of lighter bottles, breaking the traditional association between premium wines and heavier packaging while emphasizing sustainability as a core aspect of their winemaking and growing philosophy.
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