Daily Wine News: Farmers Left Behind

Posted by | Posted in Wine News | Posted on 04-26-2023

(Source: Visit Napa Valley)

In Napa Valley, you’ll find “small farmers, many of whom have been around for generations, growing grapes and selling their fruit. Many also make their own wine — and want to promote it and sell it. However, current winery laws make it nearly impossible for these micro-producers to participate in the booming Napa tourist economy. A new piece of legislation called the Micro Winery Ordinance, which passed in March 2022 and went into effect May 5 of the same year, should have been a saving grace for these producers and allowed them to take part. But, now it’s becoming apparent the ordinance isn’t the answer small wineries need.” In VinePair, Shana Clarke looks at what the failure of the ordinance means for the future of small farmers in Napa.

At the Hermann J. Wiemer in the Finger Lakes, co-owner Fred Merwath wants to know: Can biodynamic viticulture make more expressive Riesling? Kristen Bieler reports on the winery’s experimental nature in Wine Spectator.

With 2022 marked by high inflation, an energy crisis and global supply chain disruptions, many markets saw significant increases in wine prices, reports Rachel Arthur in Beverage Daily, which lead to a slight decrease in consumption.

In SevenFifty Daily, Roger Morris weighs the cost versus benefits of a trade show for wineries. “There are many reasons to take part: to expand into newer markets or redirect existing ones; to meet with existing accounts to review annual performance and set goals; to make your brand more recognizable in all markets; to promote your brand story to a diversity of trade and consumer media; and to shop around at other booths for goods or services your winery might need. In some cases, trade shows can also help a winery look for partnerships or ventures with other winegrowers.”

On JancisRobinson.com, Samantha Cole-Johnson delves into the new generation of Washington State wineries focused on crafting ageworthy reds.

In Decanter, Jonathan Cristaldi takes a look at Harlan Estate’s vine-by-vine winemaking approach.

DO Cava has released its 2022 report, calling it a year of recovery for the region following the economic difficulties of 2021, with total sales increasing 4.58% to 249,135 million bottles, reports Eloise Feilden in the Drinks Business.

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