During the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for alcohol in the United States surged to unprecedented levels, putting pressure on domestic brands to increase production. However, as the market adjusts and consumers become more selective about their purchases, many producers are left with excess inventory and facing fierce competition that may lead to business closures.
The wine industry is no stranger to these challenges. Winemakers often see their craft as an art rather than a business, but if their product is not commercially viable, their businesses may struggle. This is a common occurrence in various industries like fashion and restaurants.
In a recent episode of the VinePair Podcast, Adam, Joanna, and Zach discussed a San Francisco Chronicle article that explored the difficulties facing California winemakers. They argued that these challenges were more a result of the pandemic’s impact rather than a fundamental shift in consumer attitudes towards wine. The hosts suggested that small winemakers needed to be more transparent about their business strategies to better prepare themselves for challenging times.
Joanna talked about the hidden hazards of being too big for the bar, while Zach explored whether Burgundy’s low-sulfite wines could reshape tradition. Adam delved into the reasons why drink makers seek royal warrants and the potential concerns they may have in the current environment.
To hear more discussions on these topics, tune into the VinePair Podcast on various platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
