The Flipboard magazine collection “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 08-15-26” curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine) features articles covering trends, regions, and market developments across spirits, wine, and beer.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in the collection:
1. Want to Drink Rare Bourbons for a Good Price? Try Winning the Lottery
Source: Wine Enthusiast (by Kristy Alpert)
Summary: Details how consumers can acquire highly sought-after, rare bourbons (like Pappy Van Winkle or BTAC) at manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) rather than extreme secondary market markups through state-run or retailer-sponsored liquor lotteries.
2. Vermentino, Explained: The Distinctive Italian White Wine You Should Know
Source: Food & Wine (by Tom Hyland)
Summary: Profiles Vermentino, an Italian white wine grape primarily grown in Liguria, Tuscany, and Sardinia. Known for its salinity, coastal influence, herbal notes, and surprising aging potential, it stands out against standard straightforward Italian whites.
3. World Cup Is Gone. Beer’s Summer Blues Remain. Now What?
Source: VinePair (by Dave Infante)
Summary: Analyzes the beer industry’s market performance following major summer sports events like the World Cup. It examines how the anticipated sales boost provided temporary relief, but underlying challenges and demand shifts in the beer sector persist.
4. Ancient Areni Reawakens
Source: Deborah Parker Wong
Summary: Explores the resurgence and heritage of Areni, an ancient indigenous grape variety from Armenia, highlighting how modern winemakers are reviving historical winemaking traditions and indigenous varietals to bring Armenian wines onto the global stage.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s curated Flipboard collection Liquor Industry News (08-13-26)from The Wonderful World of Wine:
Key Stories & Headlines
1. Crown Royal Partners with Juicy Couture
Source: The Spirits Business
Summary: Diageo’s Crown Royal has teamed up with Y2K lifestyle brand Juicy Couture to release limited-edition bottle bags and matching velour tracksuits inspired by Crown Royal’s flavored whiskies (Regal Apple, Peach, and Blackberry).
Key Detail: The collaboration supports diversity in the fashion industry through a $75,000 donation to RaiseFashion, funded by 100% of the net proceeds from tracksuit sales.
2. Old Elk Releases 10-Year-Old Whiskey Trio
Source: The Spirits Business
Summary: Following its acquisition by Ohio-based Middle West Spirits, Colorado whiskey maker Old Elk introduced three high-ABV 10-year-old expressions:
Pricing & Availability: All three bottles are priced at $69.99 (750ml) and distributed nationwide.
3. The “Frozen Pickle Wine” Viral Trend
Source: Sporked
Summary: An analysis of the latest internet drink trend: dropping frozen dill pickle slices into a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc as savory ice cubes.
Takeaway: Evolving from frozen grapes and “spicy Sauvy B” (frozen jalapeño slices in white wine), the trend highlights how consumers embrace low-effort, high-novelty freezer hacks—even if food critics conclude that the brine clash is best kept separate from good wine.
4. How to Grow Wine Without Herbicides
Source: Beyond Organic Wine (Substack)
Summary: Examines sustainable and organic viticulture practices, detailing modern advances in vineyard tools, cover crops, and soil management aimed at eliminating chemical herbicides in favor of regenerative grape growing.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in the Liquor Industry News (08-12-26) collection curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
Copper & Kings Expands Distillery-Exclusive Shipping: Louisville, Kentucky-based brandy producer Copper & Kings announced it is offering nationwide shipping for its distillery-exclusive bottlings, making limited-edition spirits available directly to consumers across the country.
Ready-to-Drink (RTD) Cocktails Gain Ground in Bars: Beyond conquering supermarket retail shelves, ready-to-drink canned and bottled cocktails are increasingly being integrated into on-premise venues and behind bar programs as bars adopt them for speed, consistency, and convenience.
Extreme Heat Forces Early & Nighttime Grape Harvests in Italy: Climate change and scorching temperatures in Italy (specifically the Franciacorta sparkling wine region) are shifting harvest schedules. Vineyards are harvesting grapes up to 10 days earlier than usual and relying on pre-dawn/nighttime picking to protect fruit quality from intense heat.
The Producers Behind Costco’s Kirkland Boxed Wine: An inside look into the sourcing, wineries, and production partnerships behind Costco’s popular and budget-friendly Kirkland Signature boxed wine offerings.
The stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-11-26) collection cover a mix of industry launches, legal developments, and market trends:
1. China’s Top Wine Influencer “Lady Penguin” Faces Smuggling Trial
The Story: The company behind Wang Shenghan (known online as Lady Penguin), China’s prominent wine influencer with over 6 million followers, is set to stand trial in Beijing on September 1, 2026.
Details: Both the corporate entity (Beijing Lady Penguin Wines & Spirits) and an individual are accused of smuggling goods and duty evasion. This marks a dramatic downturn for a digital brand that previously generated up to RMB 350 million ($48M+) in annual sales before facing debt, lawsuits, and declining operations in recent years.
The Story: Startup PourPlays announced the official launch of its interactive “Play–Learn–Win” mobile platform designed to make wine education engaging for new generations of consumers.
Details: The app combines game mechanics (such as pairing challenges and trivia levels) with AI-powered tasting notes, live event integrations, and promotional coupons. It aims to bridge the disconnect between traditional wine marketing and younger, digitally native drinkers.
3. Bota Box Debuts Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon in a 1.5-Liter Format
The Story: Major boxed wine brand Bota Box launched a premium Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon packaged in a 1.5-liter box (equivalent to two standard 750ml bottles) at a suggested retail price of $20.
Details: Crafted by winemaker Alicia Ysais using select lots from recent Napa vintages, the launch reflects growing industry demand for premium-tier wines packaged in sustainable, eco-friendly alternative formats.
4. A Look Back at Pre-1984 State Drinking Laws in the U.S.
The Story: A historical analysis published by VinePair explores the state-by-state landscape of legal drinking ages prior to the passage of the 1984 National Minimum Drinking Age Act.
Details: The article highlights how state drinking ages varied widely—ranging from 18 to 21—and examines how the federal government used federal highway funding leverage to standardize the age at 21 nationwide.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-10-26) collection on Flipboard:
Key Stories in this Edition
Liquor Industry News Roundup (thewonderfulworldofwine.education) Curated by wine & spirits educator Mark C. Lenzi, this issue covers industry updates, new beverage releases, regulatory notes, and retail market developments across the wine, spirits, and beer sectors.
How Weight-Loss Medication is Changing Relationships with Alcohol (BBC News) An exploration into an unexpected side effect of popular GLP-1 weight-loss medications (such as Ozempic and Wegovy): many users report a significant decrease in alcohol cravings and overall consumption alongside their reduced appetite.
Best Champagne for Celebrations: How to Choose (winesfromfrance.com) A practical guide to selecting Champagne for major milestones and events, detailing differences in sweetness levels, grape blends, price points, and serving tips for memorable toasts.
Mexico Became the World’s Largest Beer Exporter (mexicosolidarity.com) A report detailing Mexico’s dominant milestone as the top global exporter of beer, driven by sustained international demand for Mexican lager brands in major export markets like the United States.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News:
Key Headlines & Summaries
Slovenian Winemakers Face Threat of Not Being Allowed to Sell Wine (The Morning Claret)
Summary: Slovenian winemakers are facing regulatory hurdles and uncertainty following new regional wine legislation, which creates risks around compliance and licensing that could prevent some producers from legally selling their wines.
Cutwater Named Fastest-Growing Alcohol Brand in the U.S. (The Spirits Business)
Summary: Anheuser-Busch InBev’s ready-to-drink (RTD) canned cocktail brand, Cutwater, recorded a 104% growth surge over the past 12 months, making it the fastest-growing alcohol brand in the United States amidst rising consumer demand for premium RTD beverages.
Exploring Eight EU Wine Regions Set to Win Over Drinkers (The Drinks Business)
Summary: Highlighting a recent industry masterclass, this piece explores eight emerging European Union wine regions positioned to gain market share by leveraging strong EU quality assurance standards and evolving consumer preferences.
New Study Finds Alcohol Industry Fails on Nutrition & Ingredient Transparency (Center for Science in the Public Interest / CSPI)
Summary: A report published by health advocacy groups highlights significant gaps in consumer disclosure across major alcoholic beverage manufacturers, arguing that the industry lags behind food and non-alcoholic drinks in disclosing calorie counts, ingredients, and nutritional facts.
Here is a summary of the stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-04-26) collection on Flipboard:
1. Declining Wine Consumption: Reliving 1986 or 1993?
Source: Substack (Tom Wark)
Summary: Analyzes current downward trends in U.S. per-capita wine consumption. The piece draws parallels to historical downturns in 1986 and 1993 to evaluate whether the American wine market is experiencing a temporary contraction or a long-term structural shift.
2. Tales of Kosher Alcohol
Source: talk-a-vino.com
Summary: Explores the landscape of kosher wines, spirits, and liquors (including whiskey, tequila, and vodka). It breaks down how kosher certifications influence production and consumer purchasing decisions beyond just price considerations.
3. Daily Marijuana Use Surpasses Daily Drinking in the U.S.
Source: Fox News (Angelica Stabile)
Summary: Reports on SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) survey data showing a major shift in substance habits. With 21.4 million Americans reporting daily or near-daily cannabis use, daily marijuana consumption has officially surpassed daily alcohol drinking in the United States.
4. How Heatwaves Affect What We Drink
Source: The Drinks Business
Summary: Examines how rising temperatures and seasonal heatwaves alter consumer preferences, driving shifts toward lighter, colder, and lower-ABV beverage formats.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (08-03-26) collection from The Wonderful World of Wine:
1. Episode 321 — Crushin’ It in Boston: Redefining Wine Culture with Gabrielle Malina
Source: The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Podcast
Summary: Co-hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi sit down with Gabrielle Malina, the driving force behind Boston’s First Crush. The episode explores how local wine culture is being redefined through natural wines, community-focused events, and initiatives aimed at making wine more approachable and inclusive for everyday consumers.
2. The World’s Best-Selling Vodka Isn’t Grey Goose or Ketel One — It’s Cheaper
Source: Tasting Table
Summary: Despite the premium marketing of brands like Grey Goose, Cîroc, or Ketel One, Smirnoff remains the undisputed global leader in vodka sales. Backed by global distribution via Diageo, Smirnoff moves roughly 23.4 million nine-liter cases annually—nearly double its closest competitor, Absolut. Its dominance is driven by an affordable price point (~$12 a bottle) and its status as an industry-standard, versatile workhorse mixer for high-volume bars.
3. Why You’ll Never Find Norway’s Best-Selling Beer on American Shelves
Source: Tasting Table
Summary: Norway’s top-selling pilsner, Ringnes Bryggeri (brewed since 1886 and owned by Carlsberg), is virtually impossible to find in the United States. Due to heavy alcohol production taxes in Scandinavia and high US import costs, bringing the domestic lager stateside is economically unfeasible for distributors. While traditional Norwegian lager remains abroad, American beer lovers can still sample Norwegian influence through craft imports or local beers brewed using traditional Norwegian kveik yeast.
4. What Real Vikings Drank When They Wanted Something Stronger Than Beer
Source: The Takeout
Summary: Centuries before modern distillation introduced hard liquor to Scandinavia, wealthy Vikings drank fruit wine when they wanted drinks with higher alcohol content than standard beer or mead. Using locally abundant ingredients like cherries, apples, pears, lingonberries, and cloudberries, ancient producers fermented fruit wines reaching ABVs similar to modern grape wines—a craft that parallels today’s revival in artisanal fruit wines, traditional ciders, and perries.
Here is a summary of the news stories featured in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News:
1. Australian Wine Exports Drop to 22-Year Low (The Drinks Business)
Key Takeaway: Australian wine exports have dropped to their lowest level in over two decades.
Details: The decline is primarily driven by a broader global drop in wine consumption, which continues to put downward pressure on international demand for Australian vintages.
2. ‘Worst Crisis Since WWII’: Bordeaux Wildfires Continue Amid Extreme Heat (The Drinks Business)
Key Takeaway: Extreme heatwaves and wildfires near Bordeaux have created severe crisis conditions for the region.
Details: The fires and scorching temperatures have severely disrupted local wine regions, with officials describing the situation as one of the hardest challenges the area has faced in modern history.
3. How to Pair Tequila With Food Without Screwing It Up (Tequila Report)
Key Takeaway: A practical guide to integrating tequila into dinner pairings rather than treating spirits and food as separate entities.
Details: Author Jay Baer breaks down how different styles of tequila (Blanco, Reposado, Añejo) complement various flavor profiles, sauces, and cooking techniques to elevate meal pairings.
4. 10 Summer Cocktails Food & Wine Readers Loved This July (Food & Wine)
Key Takeaway: A roundup of the most popular summer drinks favored by readers over the month.
Details: Features top-rated seasonal cocktail recipes, emphasizing refreshing ingredients, fruit-forward flavors, and easy-to-make summer classics.
The Story: Beyoncé has formally taken full ownership of SirDavis American Whisky, a brand created in partnership with Moët Hennessy (LVMH).
The Details: Named after her great-grandfather Davis Hogue—a prohibition-era moonshiner—the brand reflects a high-rye American whisky profile finished in sherry casks.
Svedka Introduces a “Vodka Water Cooler”
The Story: Svedka Vodka (owned by Sazerac) launched a marketing campaign featuring an office-style water cooler dispensing its new Ready-To-Drink (RTD) canned Vodka Waters.
The Details: This move targets the fast-growing canned RTD market, capitalizing on the shift away from sugary malt beverages toward low-calorie, spirit-based canned drinks.
European Sparkling Wines & Regional Heritage
The Story: A feature by VinePair exploring how European sparkling wines (beyond Champagne, such as Cava, Prosecco, and Crémant) communicate regional identity and terroir.
The Takeaway: As the European Union remains the world’s third-largest wine exporter, producers are doubling down on regional heritage to connect with budget-conscious yet craft-focused consumers.
Tuscan Terroir Focus: Wine, Food, and Olive Oil
The Story: A spotlight piece via Vero examining the agricultural triad of Tuscany, with a focus on Sangiovese-based reds (like Montalcino) produced without oak aging to preserve freshness and versatility with food
The Wine That Refuses to Behave: A Love Letter to Pét-Nat (Substack – Sandra E. Taylor)
The Premise: For those looking for sparkling wine without paying Champagne prices, Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat) is having a moment.
Takeaway: Made using the ancient méthode ancestrale (where wine is bottled before primary fermentation completes), Pét-Nat offers a playful, rustic, and unpredictable sparkle that makes high-end bubbles feel accessible and fun for casual summer drinking.
The Case for Buying Wine You Actually Understand (River Journal Online – Thurman Hunter)
The Premise: Most consumers experience aisle anxiety—grabbing bottles based on familiar price points or pretty labels and hoping for the best.
Takeaway: The article argues for demystifying wine shopping. Instead of trying to decipher overly complex or obscure descriptions, consumers benefit far more from buying styles and regions they genuinely understand and enjoy.
What Happens When Every Wine Region Wants to Be Premium? (Food & Wine Aesthetics – Dwight Furrow)
The Premise: Exploring the global industry push toward “premiumization,” using regions like Montepulciano d’Abruzzo in Italy as an example.
Takeaway: As nearly every wine region tries to elevate its status and price tier, it shifts market dynamics—forcing consumers to navigate higher prices while regions balance local tradition with high-end global prestige.
Ditching Industry Jargon: “Porch Pounders” (Substack / Kiersten Hickman) A commentary examining the popular casual term “porch pounder”—frequently used to describe easy-drinking, high-acid summer wines—and arguing why the phrasing dilutes appreciation for light-bodied wines and should be retired by industry professionals.
Wales Pursues World’s First Natural Wine Appellation (The Drinks Business / Barnaby Eales) Welsh wine producers are applying for formal protected status to establish the world’s first official natural wine appellation, signaling growing recognition and regulatory structure for low-intervention winemaking in the UK.
Old Forester Unveils Milestone Louisville Release (The Spirits Business / Joe Rogers) Old Forester has introduced the latest expression in its limited 117 Series. This release marks a significant brand milestone as the first whiskey produced entirely at its downtown Louisville, Kentucky distillery since the facility re-opened.
Cocktail Alternatives: Twist on the Long Island Iced Tea A feature exploring cocktail variations and substitutions—such as the Florida Iced Tea—offering drinkers alternative recipes when tequila or standard bar staples run short.
Here is a breakdown of the featured stories in the “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 07-27-26” Flipboard magazine, curated by wine specialist Mark C. Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine):
Key Article Summaries
“Say Goodbye To Mediocre Wine — This 20-Minute Rule Makes It Taste Premium”
Source: Tasting Table (by Sean Bell)
Summary: Offers accessible serving hacks to instantly elevate inexpensive wines. The core tip centers on proper temperature management—chilling lighter reds for roughly 20 minutes before serving, or taking whites out of the fridge 20 minutes ahead to unlock their full aroma and flavor profile without muting them.
“What Is Blouge Wine? A Guide to the Chilled Hybrid”
Source: Wine Guide 101 (by Damon Segal)
Summary: Explores the emerging trend of “Blouge” (a blend/co-fermentation of white and red grapes). Positioned between a light red and a dark rosé, these juicy, low-tannin hybrid wines are designed to be served chilled, appealing to modern drinkers looking for vibrant, casual summer wines.
“The Wildest Flavored Vodkas Bartenders Actually Recommend”
Source: Food & Wine (by Kate Dingwall)
Summary: Highlights unique and unorthodox flavored vodkas that professional bartenders endorse for craft cocktails. It looks beyond artificial sweet flavors to focus on savory, botanical, or craft-infused spirits that add genuine complexity to drinks.
“Liquor Industry News 07-27-26”
Source: The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Education (by Mark C. Lenzi)
Summary: An industry news roundup covering new product rollouts, retail beverage trends, market insights, and educational updates for industry professionals and wine enthusiasts.
Here is a summary of the featured stories in Mark Lenzi’s Liquor Industry News (07-26-26) collection:
1. Wine Orders as Age Indicators (Delish)
The Takeaway: Wine choices often reflect generational trends. For example, rosé dominated millennial culture in the mid-2010s through the “rosé all day” movement, while younger consumers and modern wine drinkers lean toward crispy whites like Sauvignon Blanc or natural wines.
2. New & Returning Fall Brews from Samuel Adams (Allrecipes)
The Takeaway: As seasonal transitions approach, Samuel Adams is introducing a new variation of one of its best-selling beers alongside the return of three fan-favorite seasonal brews for the fall lineup.
3. Turin’s Aperitivo Evolution (Food & Wine)
The Takeaway: Moving beyond classic spritz stops in tourist-heavy hubs like Rome or Venice, Turin (Piedmont) is emerging as one of Italy’s most exciting drink destinations with a rising scene centered on natural wine, inventive cocktails, and apericena (aperitivo paired with substantial snack dinners).
4. Volcanic Sparkling Wines of Veneto (Great Italian Food Trade)
The Takeaway: A spotlight on Lessini Durello and Monti Lessini DOP—volcanic sparkling wines produced in northeastern Italy’s Veneto region, known for high acidity and mineral profiles shaped by volcanic soils.
This Flipboard magazine curated by Mark Lenzi (The Wonderful World of Wine) features several key wine and spirits industry stories:
Featured Stories
8 Affordable Sparkling Wines That Are Just As Good As Champagne (Delish) Highlights sommelier-recommended budget sparkling wines (like Cava, Crémant, and Prosecco) that offer high quality and effervescence without the premium Champagne price tag.
Super Mario’s Namesake Planted Grapes Behind Washington’s Top Scoring White Wine (MyNorthwest) Focuses on the unique history behind Washington state’s top-rated white wine from the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, tracing its vineyard roots to Mario Segale (the real-life namesake of Nintendo’s Mario).
10 Reasons Why Moldovan Wine Should Be On Your Radar (The Drinks Business) Explores the rising global profile of Moldova’s wine industry, highlighting its indigenous grape varieties, subterranean cellars, and modern winemaking evolution.
Why Electrolytes Have Become Wine’s Newest Additive (The Drinks Business) Examines a new trend in wellness-oriented alcoholic beverages, where brands are experimenting with adding electrolytes to wine targeting health-conscious consumers.
Here is a brief summary of the featured stories from the “Liquor Industry News” collection:
Canadian Cider Global Push: The non-profit association Cider Canada has secured federal government support aimed at expanding its footprint and boosting exports into international markets.
Massive Restaurant Wine Markups: Wine pricing at US restaurants has reached a new pain point for consumers, with reports showing some venues are marking up bottles to as much as six times their wholesale cost.
Fireball’s Novelty Sneakers: Fireball Cinnamon Whisky has launched a marketing campaign featuring limited-edition high-top sneakers designed with a custom-built, secret compartment to carry a whiskey pouch.
Laser Tech vs. Counterfeit Alcohol: New laser technology is being highlighted as a potential weapon against illegal and dangerous counterfeit alcohol by allowing quick authentication of spirits.
The Flipboard curation of “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 07-17-26” by Mark Lenzi covers some fascinating developments across the beverage world, ranging from innovative product launches to the science of tasting.
Here is a summary of the featured stories:
1. Trinchero Family Wine and Spirits Launches “Sauvy B”
The Scoop: Trinchero (the third-largest wine supplier in the U.S.) has partnered with famed winemaker Joel Gott to release a new ready-to-drink (RTD) wine spritzer called Sauvy B.
What makes it unique: It targets “better-for-you” trends and younger consumers by introducing added electrolytes sourced from pink Himalayan salt.
The details: The drink is packaged in 12-ounce cans, comes in at a sessionable 4.5% ABV (roughly 100 calories), and is made from 90% sparkling water, 9% California Sauvignon Blanc, and natural citrus flavorings (available in Lime and Grapefruit).
2. WhistlePig Whiskey Joins the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA)
The Scoop: The Vermont-based, LVMH-backed rye whiskey specialist WhistlePig has officially been welcomed as the newest member of the KDA.
Context: This move aligns with WhistlePig’s growing physical footprint in Kentucky, including the opening of their “WhistlePig PiggyBank” tasting room and retail space in Louisville’s NuLu neighborhood.
3. What the Wine World Teaches Us About Taste and Smell (via BrainFacts)
The Scoop: Drawing from lectures at the annual Society for Neuroscience meeting, this piece explores the incredibly complex neurological processing that happens when we taste wine.
Key takeaways:
The Brain on Wine: Wine tasting is an active, multi-sensory workout. It involves vision (assessing color/legs), smell, taste, and the trigeminal nerve, which processes temperature and mouthfeel. All of this is integrated in the orbitofrontal cortex.
Expectation vs. Reality: Preconceived notions heavily dictate taste. Studies showed that dyeing a white wine red fooled tasters into describing red wine characteristics, and tasting wine in front of flowers led to more positive descriptions.
The “Verbal Overshadowing” Trap: As intermediate tasters focus intensely on trying to find the perfect words to describe a wine, they can actually disconnect from the simple, holistic pleasure of drinking it.
4. The Complete Ultimate List of Craft Tequila Brands (via The Tequila Report)
The Scoop: Written by Jay Baer, this industry-wide deep dive looks to expand the conversation beyond just “additive-free” tequila by establishing a strict definition for what actually constitutes a true “craft” tequila.
The Criteria: To help overwhelmed consumers standing in front of retail shelves, the report evaluates brands on specific production standards, ultimately identifying 231 brands that officially meet the rigorous definition of “craft.”
This Flipboard magazine curated by Mark Lenzi (Liquor Industry News 07-16-26) features a collection of articles tracking key shifts, challenges, and historical insights in the wine and spirits world.
Here are the summaries of the top stories highlighted in this edition:
1. “Back Sweetening” is Reshaping the Wine Market
Source: The Drinks Business (by Roger Morris)
What’s happening: There is a growing global trend toward “friendlier,” slightly sweeter table wines, especially for by-the-glass pours in the US. Winemakers are increasingly using “back sweetening”—adding unfermented grape juice or concentrate back into a dry wine before bottling—to adjust flavor profiles. Interestingly, even traditional European regions are beginning to adapt to this consumer preference for softer, less astringent styles.
2. Harsh Weather Batters Virginia Vineyards
Source: WMRA (by Christine Phelan Kueter)
What’s happening: Virginia’s vineyards are facing a highly challenging year. An early-season freeze severely damaged young grape buds, which was quickly followed by an intense summer drought. While recent rainfall has offered minor relief, growers are bracing for significantly reduced crop yields as they navigate these extreme climate swings.
3. Roman Women Managed Ancient Wine and Olive Oil Production
Source: Archaeology Magazine (by Dario Radley)
What’s happening: A new historical study is rewriting what we know about the Roman vilica (female farm manager). Previously dismissed by historians as simple housekeepers who managed basic domestic chores, new evidence reveals that these women actively managed large-scale agricultural businesses, overseeing the complex production and trade of wine and olive oil on ancient Roman estates.
4. “The Human Element” in Wine
Source: Substack (by Sandra E. Taylor)
What’s happening: This piece explores the social and human aspects of the wine supply chain. It emphasizes that while terroir, climate, and technology are heavily discussed, the manual labor, ethical treatment of farmworkers, and the cultural communities surrounding vineyards are critical to the industry’s sustainability and ultimate success.
This link you shared points to a curated Flipboard magazine titled “LIQUOR INDUSTRY NEWS 07-15-26”, put together by Mark Lenzi (under the profile The Wonderful World of Wine).
The magazine aggregates recent news, insights, and profiles from across the wine and spirits industry. Here is a summary of the featured stories visible in the collection:
1. Franzia’s Pivot in China: Navigating Tariffs
The Story: Franzia Without America: How Tariffs Reinvented an Iconic Brand in China (from Vino Joy News)
The Details: Hit hard by import taxes climbing to nearly 80%, Franzia—one of the global heavyweights in boxed wine—made a dramatic logistical pivot. To stay competitive in the Chinese market, they abandoned the use of U.S.-sourced grapes and wine, instead reformulating and sourcing wine from other regions to sidestep the hefty tariffs.
2. Traditional Winemaking and the “Piedmont Method”
The Story: What Is Traditional Italian Winemaking? Scarpa and the Piedmont Method (from Upscale Living Magazine)
The Details: Highlighting a strong start to 2026 for Italian fine wines, this piece explores how classic Italian regions are outpacing traditional French powerhouses like Bordeaux and Burgundy on the Liv-ex index. It highlights the historic Scarpa winery and digs into the “Piedmont Method”—a traditional approach to long-aging wines, particularly Barolo, which is currently seeing some of its strongest market demand ever.
3. Introducing Oltrepò Pavese’s “Classese”
The Story: Oltrepò Pavese: Top of the Classese (from World of Fine Wine)
The Details: This article introduces readers to “Classese,” a specialized trademark term used to denote Metodo Classico (traditional method) Blanc de Noirs sparkling wines from Lombardy’s Oltrepò Pavese region. Written by Sarah Marsh MW, the piece explains how this unique designation seeks to marry the words “classico” and “pavese” to carve out a distinct luxury identity for the region’s high-quality Pinot Nero sparkling wines.
4. Aromatic White Wine Showdown
The Story: Riesling Vs. Gewürztraminer: What’s The Actual Difference (from Tasting Table)
The Details: A deep dive into two of the world’s most famous aromatic white grape varieties. While both are celebrated for their intense floral aromas and historical roots in cool-climate European regions (like Alsace and Germany), the article breaks down the technical and sensory differences—contrasting Riesling’s high acidity and citrus/mineral profile with Gewürztraminer’s lower acidity, heavier mouthfeel, and distinct lychee and spice notes.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 327 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Matchmaking & Premium Cocktails with Erik Segelbaum In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly accomplished Erik Segelbaum. With an extensive wine background that […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 326 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Drink, Eat And Do With Monique Soltani In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with broadcast journalist, media personality, and wine expert Monique Soltani. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 325 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Adapting, Judging, and Unlearning Wine with Joe Roberts In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down for an engaging conversation with Joe Roberts, the creative force behind […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 324 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Inside the Mind of a Master Sommelier with Michael Meagher What does it actually take to reach the absolute pinnacle of the wine world? In this powerhouse episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 323 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Destination Weddings, Wine, and the Language of Italy With Jennifer Martin Get ready for an enchanting journey through the heart of Italy! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 322 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! A Masterclass With Deborah Parker Wong 🍷 Prepare to be inspired! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with one of the most influential figures in […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 321 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Crushin’ It in Boston: Redefining Wine Culture with Gabrielle Malina Grab a glass and settle in! This week on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark are joined by the powerhouse behind Boston’s […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 320 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Unveiling Perfection: Napa’s New Icon with Jayson Hu From a world-class collector to a visionary creator, Jayson Hu is redefining the pinnacle of Napa Valley luxury. In this episode, Kim and Mark sit down with […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 319 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Wine Digital Marketing With Molly Bossardt In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Molly Bossardt of Bread & Butter Digital Marketing to pull back the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 318 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle Cheers, wine lovers! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), your hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly multi-talented […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 317 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz In this landmark episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with a true titan of the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 316 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with a true powerhouse of the industry: Meridith May. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 315 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sustainability with Sandra Taylor In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark dive deep into the world of sustainable viticulture with special guest Sandra Taylor. As the author of […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 314 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Beth and Patrick Downing, the visionary owners of Franklin, Massachusetts’ own […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 313 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik Ever feel like you need a PhD and a Rosetta Stone just to pick a decent bottle of Cabernet? You aren’t alone. This week on The Wonderful World […]
