The massive capacity of mycorrhizal fungi.

In SevenFifty Daily, Lauren Johnson-Wünscher looks at how mycorrhizal fungi help create more drought-resistant grapevines. “As they grow, the root-like threads, called mycelium filaments, which are thinner than a vine’s roots, descend deeper into the soil, surpassing the roots. In some cases, mycorrhizal fungi can expand a plant’s root systems by as much as 700 times. This symbiotic relationship, called mycorrhiza, is present in at least 90 percent of all land plants, but viticulturists have caught on that if they take a regenerative approach to their farming, they may be able to harness the positive impacts of mycorrhizae for their vines.”

More details about Underground Cellar’s closure are being released. “Despite the company naming “recent market headwinds” and an “inability to secure financing in an increasingly challenging capital market” as reasons for its bankruptcy, some former customers are claiming that the business was a sham, with the intent of luring wine lovers to part with their money before cutting and running,” reports Sarah Neish in the Drinks Business.

“Vintage Wine Estates … has taken some bold steps in the past several months in “simplifying the business,” cutting costs and debt amid inflationary pressures and slowing sales,” reports Jeff Quackenbush in the North Bay Business Journal. “… it has sold two vineyards, trimmed the workforce by 4%, discontinued 2,000 less-profitable product items, increased prices, raised charges for consumer shipping and customer freight.”

In Edible East Bay, Mary Orlin reports on how mentorships, scholarships, and outreach programs are helping to widen access to the wine industry.

“Without greater participation this last week, there will be no SVB Direct to Consumer Report produced this year,” says Rob McMillan. “It’s always difficult to get survey participants. This year the effort had a higher degree of difficulty because the bank failed. I’m sure you heard that news.”

“Residing on the same latitude as Burgundy, and boasting a similar climate, Oregon — particularly the Willamette Valley — became a draw for Burgundian producers looking to make their mark in the New World. Now, winemakers from across the globe are looking to this pocket of the Pacific Northwest as a place to set down roots.” Shana Clarke looks at the outside investment flowing into Oregon in VinePair.

Melanie Young explores Picpoul in Wine Enthusiast.