Wine 988

In early January, Ken Ross found himself engrossed in the pleasures of wine, only to face an unexpected medical emergency that abruptly altered his relationship with it. Following his serious injury and subsequent hospitalization, Ken spent weeks recovering and found that wine became the furthest thing from his mind. Craving comfort foods like chicken noodle soup and Jell-O, he inadvertently entered a period without wine that extended into February and March.

Upon returning home in March, he was eager to reconnect with his favorite beverages. However, when he took his first sip of single malt Scotch, it was shockingly bitter, far from the smoothness he remembered. The same disappointment followed when he tried a beloved red wine, leading him to worry about whether his taste for wine had vanished permanently—something that felt profoundly unsettling for someone so deeply embedded in the wine community.

Time passed without wine, and life continued, yet Ken’s concerns lingered. One hopeful Friday night, he tasted a sip of his wife’s white wine, the 2022 Appassionata Uber Sauvignon Blanc, and was pleased to discover it tasted “normal”—refreshingly delightful after his long hiatus. He hesitated to indulge fully, fearing a repeat of his earlier disappointment.

The following Saturday, deciding to celebrate his return to wine, he opened a bottle of 2018 Tenuta Sant Antonio Castagnedi Amarone Della Valpolicella. The experience was transformative; the wine tasted remarkable after two months without it, offering rich flavors of sandalwood and dark fruit that he had missed.

Encouraged by this success, Ken explored more wines, including a 2020 Famiglia Pasqua Ripasso and other selections that reignited his passion, including favorites from Italy’s renowned regions. He was thrilled to enjoy single malt Scotch once again and discover new wines with excitement.

Through this journey, Ken rediscovered the joys of wine that had once defined a significant part of his identity. Finally, the familiar taste of wine brought him back to himself amidst challenges, and he felt a renewed appreciation for this cherished beverage.

Discovering the world of wine has become more accessible with the rise of online courses, providing options for everyone from casual enthusiasts to aspiring sommeliers. The shift towards virtual learning, accelerated by the pandemic, has opened doors to digital classes covering a broad spectrum of wine education, whether it’s a quick lesson on tasting techniques or a comprehensive program towards certification.

When considering wine education, it’s essential to choose a course that suits your level and interests. Below are five noteworthy online options for enhancing your wine knowledge:

For The Casual Connoisseur

Amble Wine

Amble Wine, created by Léa Gatinois DipWSET, offers a fun and accessible platform for learning about wine. The site includes a range of tools, from aroma wheels to tiered programs that delve into various aspects of wine tasting, production, and global wine regions. Resources are cost-effective, making it a great choice for wine lovers looking to expand their understanding.

Wine Folly

Wine Folly is an excellent resource for beginners, featuring articles on grape varieties and wine regions contributed by experts. Additionally, they provide guided wine courses and certifications that cater to both novice and advanced learners. Their introductory course, “Master the Basics of Wine,” includes modules on essential topics like wine history and storage tips. More advanced segments, such as the French Wine Course, explore deeper into specific regions and varieties.

MasterClass

The MasterClass platform hosts several wine-related courses taught by renowned experts. James Suckling, one of the most influential wine critics, leads a series on Wine Appreciation, emphasizing the stories behind the vineyards and the relevance of wine as an agricultural product. Another course, led by Emily Wines, aims to demystify wine culture and encourages students to appreciate wine beyond its price tag.

More Advanced Options

UC Davis: Learn the Science Behind the Art of Winemaking

The University of California, Davis, is well-known for its winemaking programs. Their Winemaking Certificate Program spans two years and offers a comprehensive education on winemaking. Interested learners can also take a free sample course to gauge the curriculum’s fit for their educational goals.

Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET)

Established in 1969, WSET provides trusted wine education and certification programs tailored for professionals in the wine and spirits industry. Their qualifications range from WSET Level 1 to Level 4 (Diploma in Wine), offering a structured approach to wine knowledge that culminates in a certification test.

These online courses not only deepen your appreciation of wine but also enhance the sensory experience of tasting and learning. Whether you choose a lighthearted class or a rigorous program, having a few bottles handy is recommended to fully engage in the learning process.

President Donald Trump’s fluctuating tariff policies pose significant risks to various California industries, particularly agriculture and wine. Business owners, farmers, and industry associations are grappling with uncertainties that stem from these tariffs, which threaten not only their immediate profits but also long-established trading relationships.

The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, two of the busiest ports in North America, reported an uptick in imports but a notable decrease in exports during the first quarter of the year. Gene Seroka, the Port of Los Angeles executive director, noted that businesses are cautious, holding back on hiring and investments due to worries about ongoing trade tensions. A predicted 10% drop in cargo volume is expected as tariffs continue to apply pressure on agricultural and manufacturing partners.

China has reacted to Trump’s tariffs by imposing its own retaliatory tariffs, further straining trade relations. With Chinese goods comprising a significant portion of the imports at these ports, any downturn in trade will reverberate across various sectors, including agriculture.

In the wine industry, the effects are multifaceted. Some business owners, like Igor Ivanov of Vinous Reverie, face tough decisions, contemplating the shift towards more local products due to the escalating tariffs on European wines. Conversely, some California winemakers see potential benefits from higher tariffs on imports, which could drive consumers toward local wines. However, all winemakers struggle with increased costs for materials such as glass bottles and labels due to import tariffs.

The stakes are high for California’s wine exports, worth $1.3 billion in 2022. The ongoing uncertainty leads to concerns about the long-term viability of these relationships, particularly as market fluctuations could lead consumers to shift toward foreign wines. Anecdotal evidence suggests that local wineries have already lost substantial business, particularly partnerships with Canadian distributors.

California has responded by filing a lawsuit against the Trump administration, asserting that the tariffs are not only harmful but also legally questionable. The damages incurred by companies vary, with anecdotal reports from industry insiders highlighting significant declines in orders and future sales.

The impacts of tariffs extend into other crop markets as well. Ryan Talley of Talley Farms expressed concerns about potential declines in sales, particularly of bell peppers, due to changing trade dynamics. Other products, like spinach and dairy, also face instability, particularly in exports to markets such as Canada and China.

Overall, the agricultural landscape in California is at a precarious crossroads due to the uncertain trajectory of federal trade policies. Farmers and producers are bracing for possible market floods if export channels dry up, which could lead to a significant drop in prices domestically, destabilizing the state’s agricultural economy. Many stakeholders are left hoping for a resolution or federal intervention to mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing tariff situation, but the consensus is clear—the repercussions are already being felt across the board.

Long before rising grocery prices and recession concerns became the talk of the town, cost was already a significant factor shaping American wine choices. With potential tariffs poised to increase import prices, many consumers may find that domestic wines offer a more economical alternative.

However, navigating the affordable wine market in the U.S. can be complicated, as Zack Eastman, co-owner of the wine bar and bottle shop Easy Does It in Chicago, points out. There’s an abundance of inexpensive American-made wines available at grocery stores and big-box retailers, mainly mass-produced brands that prioritize consistency over quality.

While low cost is a significant consideration, Eastman argues that true value in wine encompasses more than just price; it includes aspects such as quality, sustainability, and ethical farming practices. In contrast, iconic American wines, particularly Napa Valley cabernets and Sonoma chardonnays, can be prohibitively expensive. Given free access to a diverse range of imported wines at reasonable prices, American wines often struggle to compete, especially as small producers deal with high production costs.

California winemaker Joey Tensley explains that making high-quality wine in the U.S. often incurs higher costs than producing similar quality wines abroad. Consequently, independent American wine producers find it challenging to offer wines priced under $15. They face substantial upfront investments, including acquiring land and equipment, not to mention ongoing labor and distribution costs.

Tensley produces premium wines at higher price points, but he launched a more affordable line called Fundamental by sourcing grapes from larger growers, allowing him to keep prices under $25 without sacrificing quality.

Wine director Grant Barnow from The Oakville Grill & Cellar identifies many of the best-value wines from regions that aren’t typically in the limelight, such as the Central Coast, San Benito County, and Mendocino County. Eastman adds that regions like the Finger Lakes in New York, Michigan, and the Columbia Valley in Washington and Oregon are also home to great wines at approachable prices.

Even seasoned professionals like wine consultant Vernon Jackson emphasize the importance of exploring lesser-known wine regions and varietals while developing relationships with local, independent wine shops. He advises consumers to be confident in trying new options, as the true value of wine lies in its potential for discovery—it’s about the stories behind its production and the families that cultivate the grapes.

For those looking for great wines without breaking the bank, here are ten American wines priced under $25 that offer excellent value:

1. Floréz 2023 Poilu’s Pinard Cienega Valley Red Blend, $25

   • A unique co-ferment of red and white grapes offering freshness and drinkability.

2. Two Shepherds 2022 Old Vine Mendocino County Carignan, $22

   • Made from 80-year-old vines, this organic carignan is both high-quality and affordably priced.

3. Barbichette 2023 Le Blanc Seneca Lake Riesling, $25

   • A distinctive dry riesling with minerality reminiscent of Jura wines.

4. Poetson 2023 Old Shore Vineyard Co-Ferment Lake Michigan Shore Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, $25

   • A light and fresh co-ferment that showcases local Michigan winemaking.

5. Joey Tensley 2019 Fundamental Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon, $25

   • A well-balanced cabernet offering glimpses of traditional varietal characteristics.

6. Bedrock Wine Co. 2024 Ode to Lulu California Rosé, $24

   • A grenache-based rosé that captures the essence of southern Provence with California flair.

7. Monte Rio Cellars 2024 The Bench Clement Hills Lodi Vermentino, $25

   • With delicate herbal tones and citrus notes, this orange-style wine is a rarity worth trying.

8. Tatomer 2024 Steinhügel Santa Lucia Highlands Riesling, $22

   • Known for its vibrant flavor profile, this riesling is produced in a dry, Austrian style.

9. Maison Noir Wines 2023 O.P.P. Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, $23

   • A fruit-forward Oregon pinot that pairs well with a variety of foods.

10. Day Wines 2023 Vin de Days Willamette Valley Blanc Natural, $21

• An Alsatian-style white blend that offers a unique taste of Oregon’s organic winemaking.

In summary, discovering affordable yet high-quality American wines is increasingly achievable with some effort and exploration.

Wine enthusiasts have been exposed to alarming news regarding the industry in recent years, with concerns about declining consumption, diminished production, climate change, and tariffs. However, the wine scene in Atlanta tells a different story, marked by a notable increase in wine bar openings.

In 2025 alone, two acclaimed chefs from Atlanta have introduced ambitious wine bars to the city’s culinary landscape. Steven Satterfield of Miller Union recently opened Madeira Park in Poncey-Highland alongside sommelier Tim Willard, while chef Terry Koval launched Fawn, emphasizing European wines and Italian amaro in Decatur.

Beyond these newcomers, Side Saddle Wine Saloon is set to open in Boulevard Heights later this month, augmenting the expanding wine landscape. Additionally, local wine entrepreneurs Jessena and Michael Waldo have established a tasting room for their Divinely Elegant Vines brand in Austell.

In recent years, several more wine-centric establishments have opened, including Commune in Avondale Estates and Marietta Proper on Marietta Square. Marietta Proper even received a James Beard Award semifinalist nomination for the Best New Bar.

Both Satterfield and Koval are committed to emphasizing wine in their new ventures, seeing metro Atlanta diners show a keen interest in high-quality wines from smaller producers. Despite the prevalent anxiety surrounding the wine industry, experts indicate a disconnection between these gloomy forecasts and the vibrant wine scene in Atlanta.

Various industry professionals, including Perrine Prieur Gallardo, owner of Perrine’s Wine, noted that the larger wine producers bear the brunt of the industry’s challenges, while opportunities abound for smaller establishments. Young consumers are increasingly valuing wine quality, with interests shifting toward natural and organic options.

Tariffs, while a concern for many, have not deterred new ventures. Previous tariff scenarios during the Trump administration had already prepared the industry for potential price increases. Carson Demmond, owner of Rive Gauche Wine Company, observed that businesses have developed resilience strategies to navigate such obstacles.

Despite their struggles, the U.S. wine market remains substantial, with nearly 900 million gallons consumed in 2023 alone, and total wine sales surpassing $106 billion. Gallardo and Travis point to a noticeable rise in customer interest toward smaller, artisanal wine labels and a deeper awareness of the wine industry, suggesting that the Atlanta wine scene could indeed flourish amidst the challenges faced by the overarching industry.

Big Salt, a co-fermented white wine from Oregon, has steadily gained a reputation among wine enthusiasts but is now poised for major growth in popularity.

My first encounter with Big Salt occurred at The Kingstide in South Carolina, where I was drawn to a glass of this unique wine to pair with oysters. Initially taken aback by its floral and fruity aromas, I was soon captivated by a surprising burst of salinity and zest upon tasting it. My intrigue led me to delve deeper into the brand, discovering its underground following likened to a secret club among wine aficionados.

Vonda Freeman, director of beverage programs at The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, recalls her first experience with Big Salt during a wine tasting. The wine captivated her so much that she wanted to relive the moment, appreciating its beauty and expressiveness.

Big Salt was introduced in 2016 by John House and his wife Ksenija Kostic House as part of their Ovum brand, which was established in 2011. John was inspired to create this wine after discovering co-fermented wines in Spain, leading him to realize that he could experiment with blending grapes from different vineyards.

Influenced by a conversation with winemaker Raul Perez about the potential of co-fermentation, John began to develop his vision. After experimenting with various blends, he noted how co-fermentation produced a more complex and aromatic wine—akin to recording a live music performance rather than simply piecing tracks together.

Big Salt is crafted from high-quality grapes sourced from premium vineyards, yet it retails for just $20, making it accessible while still maintaining quality. The brand has further expanded its offerings with PNK Salt and Big Salt Orange Rosé, yet it continues to evoke knowing smiles and admiration among industry insiders.

Freeman aptly summarizes the essence of Ovum’s creations: just as listening to AM radio in stereo connects you to the roots of music, Big Salt captures the attention and palate of its drinkers through its unique profile.

Canada’s recent boycott of American-made wine, in response to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, has severely impacted the U.S. wine industry. Robert Koch, president and CEO of the California Wine Institute, emphasized that Canada is crucial for U.S. wine exports, accounting for over $1.1 billion in annual sales.

The boycott, which started in Ontario and spread across all provinces, involved removing American wines from shelves and restaurants. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew humorously criticized Trump’s executive order through a social media video, declaring the order to pull American products from the market a "wonderful" initiative.

Mike Kaiser of Wine America remarked that the wine industry feels caught in the crossfire of a trade dispute and fears the psychological effects of the tariffs will have a long-lasting impact on consumer behavior. Even a complete reversal of the tariffs might not alleviate the damage, leading to concerns over achieving previous sales levels.

Before the tariffs, the U.S. wine business was already grappling with challenges such as a decline in wine consumption post-COVID-19 and increased competition from alternative alcoholic beverages like seltzers. Seasonal visitors to wineries and rising inflation have further complicated the economic landscape, making it cost-prohibitive for many to enjoy wine.

Napa Valley winery CEO Christi Coors Ficeli noted that inflation has greatly increased operational costs, forcing many wineries to raise prices, which deters potential visitors. Additionally, the tariffs have escalated costs of materials essential for winemaking, such as bottles and barrels, with some barrel suppliers predicting price increases of up to 20%.

Scott Osborn, owner of Fox Run Vineyards in New York, reported a significant drop in Canadian sales, which he attributes to the tariffs. He expressed concern over the broader implications these tariffs could have on tourism and European interest in American wines.

Kaiser advocates for targeted tariff policies to prevent industries like wine from suffering collateral damage in broader trade disputes. He urges the administration to engage in discussions with wine representatives to address the ongoing challenges.

As the conflict continues, the prospect of recovery for the U.S. wine industry appears increasingly grim, with the ramifications of policies still unfolding.

Wine from Southern Colorado is now featured at Yellowstone National Park, marking a significant achievement for the state’s wine industry.

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, launched by Catholic monks in Cañon City over two decades ago and now owned by Larry Oddo, has created history by being the first Colorado winemaker to expand its reach nationally in a wholesale capacity. Oddo expressed the magnitude of this accomplishment as it allows for recognition beyond state lines, with their wines being included in menus at eight lodges and restaurants across Yellowstone, including the iconic Old Faithful Inn. The selected offerings include a Merlot, Syrah, and a unique red blend known as The Theurgist, which leveraged the expertise of a winery sales consultant for placement.

Among these, the 2022 Merlot features grapes from Palisade on Colorado’s Western Slope and presents a mid to full-bodied profile with rich flavors of baked cherry and plum, ideally complementing red meats and cheeses. The 2020 Petite Syrah, sourced from Washington’s Columbia Valley, is described by Oddo as embodying the character of a French Rhone Valley wine, boasting big fruit flavors balanced with oak and spice, ideally suited for wild game meats.

The Theurgist, part of the winery’s “As Above So Below” collection, has a light, fruit-driven style, reminiscent of Chianti or Pinot Noir, blending various grape varieties, including Petite Pearl, cultivated to withstand challenges posed by climate change.

Although only a small percentage of grapes used at the winery are locally sourced due to Southern Colorado’s cooler climate, Oddo notes that some brave local grape growers are experimenting with cultivation along the Arkansas River, producing wines like the Wild Canyon Harvest made from blends of different grape types.

The expansion into Yellowstone comes as a response to challenges faced in the wine market, particularly due to a recent state law allowing liquor sales that have shifted significant market share towards grocery stores and affected independent liquor shops. Oddo anticipates that this park sale could provide crucial support for their winery amid changing consumer preferences.

The winery is expected to produce around 6,000 cases this year, a drop from the 11,000 cases in past years, impacted by the broader market fluctuations and decreased tourism. Through creating an inviting environment, Oddo aims to ensure all patrons, regardless of their wine knowledge, can find something enjoyable to take home.

For more information, visit The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey.

Stepan Baghdassarian, the president of Rio Joe’s Brands, transitioned from a 14-year law career to the wine industry in 2005. His passion for wine stems from its natural variability and cultural significance, which he believes fosters connections among people.

Based in Van Nuys, Baghdassarian’s company specializes in niche e-commerce platforms like WinesOfArmenia.com and the upcoming WinesOfGeorgia.com. These sites focus on importing and distributing specific regional wines directly to consumers across the United States.

Initially, Baghdassarian faced challenges competing against larger companies as a generalist in the online wine market. However, his strategic pivot towards specialization has positioned Rio Joe’s as a go-to source for Armenian and Georgian wines, which he attributes to the company’s success.

He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and adapting to market changes. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Baghdassarian offers key advice: stay focused, seek mentorship, avoid negativity, be ready to pivot, and practice delayed gratification.

For more insights from innovators in various industries, visit Innovators Unplugged.

A Taste of Tradition and Exploration: Taraji P. Henson’s Culinary Journey

Taraji P. Henson reflects on her nostalgic childhood experiences associated with food, evoking memories of her grandparents’ home in the South. She recalls the joy of cracking open a watermelon and the sweet, refreshing juice running down her arms, while bees buzzed around her. Her upbringing in North Carolina and Maryland was filled with the essence of farm life—one set of grandparents raised livestock, and the other cultivated a produce garden, living off the land.

One of her cherished memories is her grandmother’s special barbecue chicken, distinct to the Carolinas. Unlike traditional barbecue, it’s pickled, utilizing vinegar to marinate the chicken, which is cooked low and slow until tender. “It’s almost like pulled pork,” she notes, emphasizing that while many family members can replicate the dish, nobody quite matches Grandma’s original recipe. Meals were often accompanied by collard greens, which she affectionately calls “salad,” along with either mashed potatoes or rice. Her grandmother also makes a beloved Brunswick stew outdoors in a cauldron, a tradition that continues even at the age of 100.

Traveling to Rome, Henson was delighted by the authenticity of the local cuisine. She savored the pleasure of enjoying fresh bread, pasta, and pizza without the guilt or discomfort of bloating, due to the absence of preservatives. "It felt like being back in my grandmother’s kitchen," she shares, highlighting how every meal felt crafted with love. One particularly memorable experience in Capri was dining at Da Paolino Lemon Trees, where the ambience of lemon trees and fresh seafood was captivating.

Henson’s culinary adventures extended to Bali, where she marveled at the innovative vegan cuisine. Dishes featuring jackfruit were so convincingly savory that she felt as though she were indulging in steak. At Gdas Bali Health and Wellness Resort, she discovered papaya sushi, astonishingly prepared to mimic the flavors of fish, showing the potential of fresh produce in plant-based cooking.

On the topic of beverages, Henson promotes her collaboration with Seven Daughters, particularly their Moscato wine. She describes it as a versatile drink that is approachable for newcomers to wine, and she enjoys crafting cocktails with it. A favorite recipe includes mixing it with pineapple and coconut juice, shaved coconut, and fresh pineapple for a refreshing tropical treat she calls ‘Tarajiritas’.

For more information about Seven Daughters Moscato, visit Seven Daughters.