Business owners in Colorado Springs are expressing concern over President Trump’s announcement of a potential 200% tariff on alcohol imported from Europe, should the European Union introduce a 50% tariff on American whiskey. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that this tariff would benefit U.S. wine and champagne businesses.

Local wine retailers are already grappling with the challenges posed by the industry. Andrew Yun, the manager at Pine Creek Wine & Spirits, highlighted the struggles faced by his business. He explained that the anticipated tariff could significantly impact his operations, especially given the razor-thin profit margins most wine retailers experience. He is apprehensive about whether the 200% tariff will actually be implemented.

Justin Niven, the manager of the Wine Gallery, remarked that this wouldn’t be the first time the wine industry has faced tariffs. The previous Trump administration imposed a 25% tariff on wines from France, Spain, and Germany in 2019, which had already driven up prices. Niven hopes that the situation does not escalate to the level of the proposed tariff.

Both managers are closely monitoring the evolving situation, acknowledging that, for now, the 200% tariff remains a threat rather than a certainty. They hope for stability in pricing amidst the uncertainty.

Furry friends have the opportunity to be featured on a wine bottle thanks to Orlando’s Pet Alliance and their 11th annual "My Best Friend Wine Label Contest" in partnership with Quantum Leap Winery. Pet parents can submit photos of their cats or dogs for a chance to have their beloved pet grace the label of the 2024 “My Best Friend Rescue Red Wine.”

Entries are accepted until July 31, with a $5 fee for each submission. Voting for the entries opens on August 1 and runs until August 24, with each vote requiring a $1 donation, which helps raise funds for the organization.

Steve Bardy, the executive director of Pet Alliance, expressed excitement over the contest, highlighting it as a wonderful way for pet owners to support their mission. "It’s always exciting to see proud pet parents showing off their adorable fur babies and seeing all the fun photos that come in," he noted.

The winning dog and cat will have their images, names, and stories featured on the wine label. Additionally, grand prize winners will receive a case of wine and a feature in Pet Alliance’s "Wags and Whiskers" newsletter. Runners-up in each category will also earn prizes, and all winners and their families will be invited to an event at Quantum Leap, the winery set to reopen this month at a new location on Lake Fairview.

Over the years, the contest has raised nearly $380,000, significantly aiding Pet Alliance, which provides shelter, medical care, and food assistance to over 3,500 homeless dogs and cats annually.

For those interested in participating, entries can be submitted through gogophotocontest.com/mybestfriend or directly at petallianceorlando.org.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria, has been named the Best Wine Capital of Europe in 2025, following a poll of over 284,000 wine enthusiasts from 82 countries. This title recognizes Plovdiv’s long-standing winemaking tradition, which dates back over 5,000 years. With its stunning scenery and unique terroir, the region produces a variety of excellent wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and local specialties like Mavrud and Rubin. The city hosts various wine festivals, making it an inviting destination for wine lovers and tourists.

Here are the other nine top wine destinations recommended for 2025:

1. La Rioja, Spain:Located near Bilbao, La Rioja is celebrated for its Tempranillo grape, yielding rich red wines. The area offers numerous vineyards with accommodations, such as the architecturally stunning Hotel Marqués de Riscal.

2. Bordeaux, France:Renowned for its red blends, Bordeaux is home to approximately 6,000 wine estates. Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences at the Cité du Vin and luxurious stays at properties like Château Grand Barrail.

3. Douro Valley, Portugal:A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Douro Valley is known for its Port wines. Visitors can explore picturesque vineyards and stay at Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House for an enriching experience.

4. Tuscany, Italy:Famous for wines like Chianti Classico, Tuscany offers scenic views and rich cultural experiences. COMO Castello Del Nero provides a luxurious stay with gourmet dining options.

5. Champagne, France:The birthplace of sparkling wine, the Champagne region boasts wineries like Moët & Chandon and offers a luxurious stay at the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa.

6. Piedmont, Italy:Known for Barolo and Barbaresco wines, Piedmont features rolling hills and medieval villages. The 5-star Principi di Piemonte offers a refined stay amid this beautiful region.

7. Alsace, France:This region showcases the blend of French and German heritage, producing distinctive white wines. The charming villages along the Alsace Wine Route provide a picturesque backdrop for wine exploration.

8. Mosel Valley, Germany:The valley is famous for Riesling vineyards and offers a combination of scenic beauty and historical architecture. Moselschlösschen Spa & Resort is a recommended spot for relaxation.

9. Santorini, Greece:Recognized for its distinct wines like Assyrtiko, Santorini’s volcanic soil contributes to unique flavors. Visitors can enjoy guided tours at various wineries and luxurious stays at hotels like Santorini Secret Suites & Spa.

These destinations offer rich histories, stunning landscapes, and exceptional wines, making them must-visit spots for wine enthusiasts in 2025.

Here’s a curated list of 20 award-winning white wines from the U.S. that cost $10 or less. Each wine has been distinguished by major wine competitions and recognized for their quality and value.

In creating this list, results from several prestigious wine competitions were analyzed, including the Decanter World Wine Awards, Wine Spectator, and the International Wine & Spirit Competition.

Recommended White Wines

• Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling, Columbia Valley, Washington – $10
  Known for its bright aromatic quality, this Riesling features notes of peach, green apple, and florals, with a balanced sweetness and a crisp finish.

• Barefoot Moscato, California – $6
  This wine is fruit-forward and accessible, showcasing peach, apricot, and citrus flavors, with a light and refreshing sweetness.

• Cupcake Vineyards Chardonnay, Central Coast, California – $10
  With aromas of apple and vanilla, this wine presents a creamy texture complemented by well-balanced acidity and light oak notes.

• Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc, California – $9
  Recognized for bold flavors, this Sauvignon Blanc includes grapefruit and lime, finishing crisp and refreshing.

• Bogle Vineyards Chardonnay, California – $10
  A family-owned winery producing sustainable wines, this Chardonnay offers flavors of green apple, pear, and light oak with a creamy finish.

• Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc, California – $6
  Exhibiting crisp lime, pear, and a hint of green herb, this wine is known for its refreshing qualities.

• Fetzer Shaly Loam Gewürztraminer, California – $8
  With notes of lychee, rose petal, and spice, this wine is balanced with a touch of sweetness.

• Liberty Creek Pinot Grigio, California – $5
  Light and drinkable, this Pinot Grigio offers refreshing notes of pear, citrus, and green apple.

• The Naked Grape Chardonnay, California – $5
  This straightforward wine showcases flavors of apple and tropical fruit with a smooth finish.

• Chateau Souverain Sauvignon Blanc, California – $10
  Featuring crisp lime and grapefruit along with a hint of minerality, this wine finishes clean and refreshing.

• Sutter Home White Zinfandel, California – $6
  A popular pink wine, it bursts with strawberry and melon notes, complemented by refreshing sweetness.

• Gnarly Head Pinot Grigio, California – $10
  Known for its value-oriented, fruit-forward profile, this Pinot Grigio includes crisp pear and citrus with a clean finish.

• Almaden Chardonnay, California – $3
  With a history dating back to the 1850s, this Chardonnay is consistently good, highlighting ripe apple and vanilla flavors with a buttery finish.

• Yellow Tail Pinot Grigio, SE Australia – $6
  This wine is approachable and features green apple and pear notes, finishing crisply.

• Franzia Crisp White, California – $3
  Famous for boxed wine, it offers citrus and floral notes with a clean finish, making it a great value.

• Folie a Deux Menage à Trois Moscato, California – $10
  Known for its bold flavors and approachable blends, it presents sweet notes of peach and apricot.

• HRM Rex Goliath Sauvignon Blanc, California – $5
  This wine is easy-drinking, showcasing citrus and tropical fruit notes with a refreshing finish.

• Bella Sera Pinot Grigio, Veneto Italy IGT – $8
  This Italian-inspired wine features a blend of pear, lemon, and crisp apple flavors.

• Concannon Vineyard Glen Ellen Reserve Chardonnay, California – $5
  Known for quality at accessible prices, this Chardonnay offers apple, pear, and vanilla notes with a well-rounded finish.

• Flip Flop Left Coast Riesling, California – $6
  This fun and approachable Riesling includes peach and floral notes with a touch of sweetness.

These selections offer excellent value and are perfect for casual enjoyment or everyday drinking.