Wine 1004

Explore renowned locations, hidden gems, delightful surprises, stunning accommodations, culinary delights, and a deep appreciation for La Dolce Vita.

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La Dolce Vita (The Sweet Life) is enthusiastically celebrated in Wine & Travel Italy, a lavish and substantial (10-by-13-inch, five-pound, 304-page) coffee-table book launching on October 24 from the esteemed publisher Assouline. Written by wine industry authority and Italian native Enrico Bernardo, this captivating exploration of Italy’s enchanting landscapes, rich culture, cherished traditions, and exquisite wines marks his second enticing Assouline release this month; his other new hardcover is Wine & Travel France. With over 30 years of globe-trotting for delectable experiences, Bernardo has created and owned Michelin-star eateries, offered consultancy to food and wine enterprises, and authored notable books such as The Impossible Collection of Wine (2016), The Wisdom of Wine: A Gourmet Book, An Ode to Life (2021), and The Impossible Collection of Champagne (2022).

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“From the moment I was born, Italian culture has coursed through my veins,” shares Bernardo. “Regardless of where life takes me, my ancestral heritage has instilled in me a deep-seated Italian intuition. Enjoying a morning coffee at a bar in Naples; sipping a Bellini at the Piazza San Marco in Venice; having an elegant dinner in Milan; indulging in fried calamari on a beach in Sardinia; relishing a gelato during a stroll in Sicily; savoring pizza in Rome: These are the culinary experiences that comforted me throughout my childhood, shaped my teenage years, and continue to broaden my perspectives to this very day.”

Chefs select fresh ingredients from the garden at Villa d’Este, a luxurious hotel located in Cernobbio.

Over 400 captivating photographs and illustrations highlight the distinctive charm of Italy. Smile at depictions of Italians enjoying their pastas, pizzas, cheeses, breads, olives, seafood, and vibrant vegetables—an endless array of feasts. Be amazed by the stunning green landscapes; many outdoor images are so surreal that they invite viewers to linger in admiration. Discover the treasures of wineries, with barrels arranged in impressive, orderly stacks. Admire the sparkling blue waters, radiant coastlines, numerous boats and ships, and the warm smiles of passengers on board.

Basking beauties: A yacht anchored at a property along the breathtaking shores of Lake Como.

Be sure to explore the ancient temples, ornate churches, delightful cucinas and cantinas, grand villas, tranquil retreats, unique boutiques, and remarkable artwork. Experience the lively interactions of locals: dancers wearing traditional attire during community festivals; families frequently coming together to enjoy meals at long tables; the playful exchanges of sunbathers basking under the radiant skies.

“From the sophistication of its urban centers to the unpretentiousness of its countryside, the essence of Italy is always vibrant,” states Bernardo. A source of inspiration for both armchair travelers and enthusiastic itinerary creators, Wine & Travel Italy embodies the essence of Bel Paese (Beautiful Country), a well-known poetic term for Italy. “To me, the entire Italian ‘boot’ is a realm filled with friendships, family, and centuries of history.”

Gathering herbs and flowers in Scena to enhance a homemade feast.

Italy is truly a wonder, according to Bernardo. “In Italy, the past seems incredibly close; it reveals itself at every turn. The Colosseum in Rome or the remnants of Pompeii breathe life into ancient history, just as Florence immerses us in the High Renaissance and Venice invites us on an enchanting voyage along the Silk Road. History, with all its continuity and layers…exists as an everlasting presence in Italy.” Today, Italy attracts visitors from across the globe. In 2023, 57.3 million travelers arrived, eager to embrace Italy’s unique offerings. “Italy is adored by many,” Bernardo exclaims.

Farmer Ponsiello Giovanni and his wife Maria Aprea are busy preparing Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio in their home located in the Naples region.

In curating his extensive information, Bernardo emphasizes 12 distinct harvest regions: The Alps, The Adriatic Coast, The Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Tuscany, The Veneto, Friuli, Piedmont, the South, Lazio and Umbria, The Italian Lakes, Liguria, and Sardinia. “As is true with wine nations globally, the wines of Italy embody its history and culture. The art of winemaking here is complex, showcasing numerous small terroirs and vineyards, each presenting a vibrant array of varietals, appellations, and soils that become increasingly colorful as one learns more,” he notes. Some Italian wines have even gained legendary status. “Every region boasts its unique flavors and charm. The local specialties deliver profound tasting experiences,” Bernardo highlights.

At a festival, there are displays celebrating traditional farming customs.

Bernardo presents his ultimate list by outlining his dream wine cellar, filled with exceptional estates from Italy’s distinguished winemaking scene, along with inspiring recommendations. “Consider it a map of dreams that have the potential to become reality, where each bottle arrives at its ideal moment.” For yourself or the Italophile in your life, think about sharing Wine & Travel Italy as a delightful holiday gift. Ciao!

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The eagerly awaited Waterways and Wine event is set to return on Friday, November 1, offering an evening filled with exquisite wine, delicious food, and lively entertainment, all to support the Seneca Museum of Waterways and Industry. The festivities will begin at 6:00 p.m. in downtown Seneca Falls, showcasing a selection of wines from some of the most respected wineries in the Finger Lakes region, including Hosmer, Anthony Road, and Trestle 31.

Local favorite Simply Homemade will be on hand to serve a variety of hors d’oeuvres and pairings, enhancing the overall experience for guests. The Ende Brothers are also scheduled to perform, providing live music that will contribute to a vibrant atmosphere throughout the night.

Attendees can look forward to not only wine tastings but also a live auction and a wine pull, offering the chance to win exciting baskets and bottles while supporting the museum’s efforts. This year, the proceeds will support the museum’s new permanent exhibit, The Tug Urger, which is a partial replica of an early 1900s Erie Canal tugboat. Guests will have the unique opportunity to engage with the museum’s director to learn more about the project and its progress.

Tickets are available for $45 for museum members and $55 for non-members, with an extra $5 charge for purchases made on the day of the event. Tickets can be secured in advance either online or directly at the museum. This event promises to be an enjoyable evening for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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FingerLakes1.com stands as the premier digital news source in the region. Established in 1998, it has been dedicated to keeping the community informed for over 20 years. If you have any news tips, please reach out at [email protected].

Wine enthusiasts now have a chic new method for keeping their wines perfectly chilled.

Rocco, known for their exquisitely designed beverage refrigerators, teamed up with La Jaras, a producer of lively natural wines. Together, they aimed to revamp the traditional wine fridge and eliminate its outdated reputation. The outcome is a stylish cabinet that not only serves its purpose but also complements midcentury modern decor with ease.

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Every aspect of this limited-edition appliance was meticulously designed to distinguish it from other models available in the market. Instead of the usual stainless steel exterior, the duo’s Super Smart Fridge offers four attractive colors—cream, white, graphite, or yellow—complemented by gold hardware and a corrugated glass door that evokes a vintage aesthetic. Its design also allows it to serve as a bar cart, featuring a spacious top that can accommodate glasses and various drink-making tools.

However, the real brilliance of this fridge is found inside. Its isolated temperature zones provide the perfect conditions to chill your favorite beverages according to your individual preferences. Each modular, reversible shelf effortlessly slides out, with racks crafted to accommodate everything from bottles to boxes to cans. Additionally, the insulated compressor ensures that the fridge operates quietly, minimizing any operational noise.

In contrast to many other kitchen appliances, the Smart Fridge truly lives up to its name thanks to its array of helpful in-app features. With a discreet camera installed, you can check its contents from anywhere using your smartphone. For those who prefer a more comprehensive inventory, the accompanying app lets you monitor what items you have and their quantities, ensuring you’re always informed when it’s time to replenish your supplies.

The Rocco x La Jaras Super Smart Fridge is priced at $1,495 and includes a subscription to La Jaras’ wine club, which offers six complimentary bottles along with six cans in your initial delivery.

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These are the kinds of wines you’ll want to buy by the case.

Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Julia Bayless

Due to the rising costs of labor and land in California, discovering exceptional wine values priced under $15 has become increasingly challenging — with emphasis on “exceptional.” While it’s certainly possible to locate less costly California wines, many of these tend to be mass-produced and lack appeal. They aren’t necessarily poor choices, just rather unremarkable.

However, once you consider spending between $15 and $20, the landscape shifts significantly, revealing a wealth of bottles that present not only immediate enjoyment but also distinct character. Here are 15 reliable selections to consider, year after year.

When it comes to a reliable choice for pairing with burgers, steaks, and sausages, Bogle’s rich and juicy Petite Sirah stands out as a top contender. Since its inception in 1968, when Warren Bogle first cultivated this variety, it has been known as a great value.

Arroyo Seco, located in Monterey County, provides the perfect balance of warmth and sunlight, resulting in a white wine that showcases a generous texture and flavors reminiscent of orchard fruits. The region’s cool winds contribute just the right amount of acidity, preventing it from becoming too heavy.

This initiative by wine importers Harmon and Michael Skurnik began in 2009 and quickly established itself as a favorite for those seeking Pinot Noir options under $20 that truly embody the essence of the varietal: bright, crisp, bursting with vibrant berry nuances and a subtle touch of spice.

Morgan Twain-Peterson showcases his talent with old-vine reds, whether through his premium selections at Bedrock Wine Co., which highlights California’s historic vineyards, or in this exceptionally delicious blend combining Zinfandel and a medley of other varietals, offering delightful blue fruit flavors.

The Varner brothers have established a reputation for their premium single-vineyard Pinot Noir. However, since the inception of their Foxglove brand in 1991, they have also excelled in offering some of the best value wines in California, including this refined and consistently delightful Cabernet Sauvignon.

Year after year, this Sauvignon Blanc stands as a dependable choice, showcasing California’s strengths with flavors of melon and citrus, balanced by fresh, yet mild acidity, and just a trace of the typical grassiness associated with the variety.

Since 1995, Napa Valley’s Pine Ridge Vineyards has been producing an intriguing and highly appealing white blend. Currently, this Chenin Blanc is sourced from Clarksburg in the Sacramento River delta, with 20% of Viognier coming from Lodi. It presents a juicy and aromatic profile, making it a wonderful pairing with dishes ranging from roast chicken to fresh green salads.

Clarksburg has emerged as a premier location for Chenin Blanc, which is experiencing a much-deserved revival in California. Long recognized for its merit, Dry Creek has been crafting this jasmine-scented, melon-flavored dry Chenin since 1972, proving its ongoing popularity.

The Mediterranean grape Malvasia is not widely cultivated in California; it is more commonly found in Italy, particularly in the Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily, and in Spain, including the Canary Islands. However, Birichino, a producer from the Central Coast, discovered a source in Monterey County, and from this vineyard, they produce a lime-scented, bone-dry white wine that is excitingly refreshing.

Bonny Doon’s Le Cigare Blanc is a harmonious blend of southern French varieties Vermentino (Rolle) and Grenache Blanc, striking a balance between richness and brightness. Its flavor profile includes notes of tart quince and ripe pears, making it incredibly versatile—equally delightful with a fresh salad or a roast chicken.

It’s a common belief that many rosés taste quite similar—pale pink, somewhat fruity, and vaguely crisp; they are pleasant but often forgettable. This Grenache-based rosé from California breaks that mold, offering distinctive and refreshing strawberry-raspberry flavors, complemented by floral notes that add depth. It has enough body that its flavor remains intact even when paired with food.

This Sauvignon Blanc from Sonoma County features a hint of barrel fermentation (around 15% of the wine), which contributes a greater texture and a silkier mouthfeel than what is typically expected from the variety. This slight richness enhances the wine’s grapefruit and lemon flavors, adding an extra layer of complexity.

Wente holds the distinction of being among the earliest California wineries to cultivate Chardonnay, first planting it in 1908. Today, the “Wente clone” of Chardonnay is recognized as one of the most widely cultivated varieties in the state. This full-bodied, citrus-infused white wine is an excellent choice for those who appreciate Chardonnay and are looking to buy in bulk.

Chris Bilbro, the founder of Marietta in 1978, had a remarkable concept for this consistently affordable red wine, which continues to be produced by his son, Scot Bilbro, after Chris’s passing in 2019. He ingeniously blended the vibrant berry notes of new-vintage Zinfandel with the robust intensity of Petite Sirah, aged for about three years in barrels, and added a splash of two-year-old Syrah for an extra kick of spice (along with a few additional varietals as necessary). While the wine doesn’t carry a vintage label, it offers a complexity and richness that surpasses many others in its price range.

Olema’s reserve bottling represents a rare kind of Chardonnay that appeals to both fans of rich, full-bodied wines and those who prefer a brighter, crisper option. Its apple-pear fruit profile is complemented by hints of vanilla and toasted bread, derived from partial aging in new French oak barrels.

An array of supporters, including Anna-Marie Bratty, Jo Ann Yang, Katlyn Bussell, Alexandra Giglio, and Olivia Brown, gathered for Home Start’s Hallo-Wine Fall Festival on October 19 in Point Loma. (Milan Kovacevic)

The musical atmosphere at the Hallo-Wine Fall Festival was brought to life by Willie and Bill Flemming. (Milan Kovacevic)

Home Start’s Chief Executive, Laura Tancredi-Baese, was joined by board President Steven Ephraim and Erica Asbury for the event. (Milan Kovacevic)

Juanita Molestina and Alexis Leftridge were also in attendance. (Milan Kovacevic)

Silent-auction items are showcased during the Hallo-Wine Fall Festival.

A lively crowd comes together for Home Start’s Hallo-Wine Fall Festival, with a stunning view of the ocean in Point Loma.

Loni Botticelli and Angie Sandoval participate in the festivities.

Keana Dennis and Manuel Maturino enjoy the event.

Seidy and Bassim Hamadeh.

Maura Moed engaged in conversation with San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe.

Laura Oglesby and Jesus Aguilar.

Elizabeth Derouin and Amy Chase conversing with Mike McWilliams from San Pasqual Winery.

Laura Tancredi-Baese, the chief executive of Home Start, shares her insights at the Hallo-Wine Fall Festival. (Milan Kovacevic)

Kelsie Jones and Autumn Miller enjoying the festivities. (Milan Kovacevic)

Valeria Medina, Joey Morado, and Maria Badillo come together for a moment. (Milan Kovacevic)

Romin Behseta and Angela Demers are captured enjoying the event. (Milan Kovacevic)

Attendees socialize during Home Start’s Hallo-Wine Fall Festival held in Point Loma. (Milan Kovacevic)

Melissa and Bob Ellis enjoy the festivities. (Milan Kovacevic)

James and Lindsay Spotanski make memorable moments together. (Milan Kovacevic)

David and Edna Wallace take part in the celebration. (Milan Kovacevic)

On October 19, Anna-Marie Bratty, Jo Ann Yang, Katlyn Bussell, Alexandra Giglio, and Olivia Brown attended the Hallo-Wine Fall Festival organized by Home Start in Point Loma. (Milan Kovacevic)

Home Start, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and treating child abuse, hosted its 17th annual Hallo-Wine Fall Festival at a private estate with ocean views in Point Loma.

Many local vendors were present, providing an array of food samples, wines, handcrafted beers, and spirits, all while guests enjoyed live entertainment, a silent auction, and various activities.

This festival takes place each October to honor National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and aims to raise funds to support Home Start’s initiatives for aiding children and families.

Fresh local produce. An impressive selection of cheeses. A tempting olive bar. A delightful variety of potato salads. Local wines. A vast assortment of beers. And now, an eye-catching four-foot display showcasing nonalcoholic wines and spirits.

“The most common request we receive is for wines with no or low alcohol content,” explained Josh Kirchhoff, the corporate wine and liquor coordinator for Oliver’s Market. “Sales have doubled compared to last year. This is clearly the trend right now.”

Oliver’s Markets, a cherished independent grocery chain with four locations in Sonoma County, is well-known for its outstanding selection of food and drinks.

Throughout his five years at the company, Kirchhoff has been closely observing the changing preferences in alcoholic beverages among customers as national trends resonate through the aisles.

In recent times, notable trends have emerged, including a rising interest in low and no-alcohol wines, canned cocktails, and Sauvignon Blanc, along with a shift towards more affordable wine options.

“The demand for nonalcoholic beverages has been remarkably robust, particularly among younger consumers,” he remarked. “The improvement in quality within this category continues to attract new customers.”

At present, Oliver’s offers approximately 75 different nonalcoholic wines, beers, and spirits, with new products being added on a weekly basis.

“As long as the trend for nonalcoholic beverages persists, we will keep them available for our customers,” Kirchhoff stated.

As the market is flooded with beverage alternatives and wine consumption declines across the United States, Kirchhoff has needed to discover innovative methods to attract Oliver’s customers to alcoholic wines.

In September, he kicked off a Varietal of the Month initiative, showcasing five local wines at varying price points. The first spotlighted wine was Sauvignon Blanc, which took over the title of the store’s bestselling white varietal from Chardonnay last year.

Kirchhoff noted that the promotion was “wildly successful,” resulting in a 25% increase in Sauvignon Blanc sales compared to last September.

In spite of declining U.S. wine sales, Sauvignon Blanc has emerged as a shining success story, both on a national scale and at Oliver’s. According to May 2024 data from NIQ, sales of Sauvignon Blanc in the U.S. increased by 5% over the last 52 weeks, with volume also climbing nearly 3%.

According to Kirchhoff, Oliver’s sells a significant amount of Sauvignon Blanc priced around $15, with the store brand’s “Oliver’s Own” Sauvignon Blanc ($10.99) being particularly sought after.

“We’ve noticed customers switching from $30 wines to ones in the $15-20 range,” he explained. “That’s the reason behind the success of Oliver’s Own wines.”

Oliver’s Own, crafted locally, includes seven wines from Sonoma County along with a California sparkling option, all priced between $10.99 and $17.99.

“Each wine we create consistently ranks among the top five bestsellers in its category,” Kirchhoff shared. “We introduced the sparkling variety around six months ago, and its popularity has soared.”

Liz Thach, a Master of Wine and president of the marketing research firm Wine Market Council, recommends Oliver’s Own Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($16.99) as a staple choice.

“A neighbor introduced me to it once, and it has since become one of my favorite wines,” she shared. “It’s budget-friendly and wonderfully fruity, featuring notes of raspberries, earth, spices, and vanilla — ideal for a Tuesday night pork chop.”

Established in Cotati by Steve and Ruth Maass in 1988, Oliver’s Markets still operates its initial location, in addition to two others in Santa Rosa and one in Windsor.

Prior to starting Oliver’s, Maass operated a roadside produce stand in San Francisco and envisioned a market dedicated to creating an enjoyable shopping experience.

To achieve this, he concentrated on promoting high-quality local products that benefitted the community, including support for local farmers. Additionally, he offered customers the option of organic or conventional goods, all while maintaining a strong commitment to exceptional customer service and employee benefits.

This approach resonated with the community and continues to attract new patrons daily.

Jacob Peters, a financial analyst for Oliver’s Market, noted that the company experienced an increase of approximately 3,000 transactions weekly from January to August this year compared to the same timeframe last year.

“With inflation significantly rising at restaurants this year, many have turned to our prepared meals as an alternative to takeout,” he explained. “We’ve also intensified our ad pricing strategies and broadened our marketing initiatives. Both actions have effectively increased customer traffic.”

Recognizing the popularity of ready-to-drink cocktails like Cut Water and High Noon at Oliver’s Market, Kirchhoff identified a chance to capture some of that market share.

This August, the company collaborated with New Alchemy Distilling located in El Dorado Hills to introduce a new line of Oliver’s Own canned cocktails. Retailing at $14.99 for a four-pack and $3.99 per individual can, the offerings currently include Vodka Lemonade and Paloma. By the end of the year, they plan to add Moscow Mule, Kentucky Sunshine, and Greyhound to their lineup.

According to IWSR, ready-to-drink cocktails were the only significant alcohol category to experience both volume growth (+2%) and value growth (+6%) in 2023. This upward trend is projected to continue, with a compound annual growth rate of +3% expected by 2028.

“We were optimistic about how the cocktails would perform, but the sales far surpassed our expectations,” Kirchhoff remarked. “In just 90 days, we managed to sell around 1,000 four-packs. They have quickly become one of the top five bestsellers in the category.”

(The brand’s vibrant and fresh packaging just received a silver medal at the prestigious NYX Awards in Advertising & Design.)

Oliver’s Markets’ dedication to offering high-quality, locally sourced products has fostered a strong sense of trust among shoppers. This reliability has made the Oliver’s Own brand particularly popular, especially in the wine and beverage section.

On October 30, the store will unveil its latest venture into the beverage sector: artisan spirits. Produced in collaboration with New Alchemy Distilling, this new line will debut with a vodka priced at $18.99, followed by a bourbon and tequila set to arrive just in time for the holiday season.

“In the current economic climate, it’s often more affordable to visit Oliver’s for a delightful dinner paired with some local wine than to dine out,” noted Kirchhoff. “Consumers are looking for the best value for their money. I believe that’s a significant factor behind many of our recent successes.”

You can contact Staff Writer Sarah Doyle at 707-521-5478 or sarah.doyle@pressdemocrat.com. You can also follow Sarah on Instagram at @whiskymuse.

Australia’s wine exports saw a significant increase of over a third, largely driven by a rise in shipments to China following the country’s decision to remove tariffs.

The total value of shipments for the year ending in September surged by 34% to A$2.4 billion ($1.6 billion), marking its highest level since the year ending in August 2021, as reported by Wine Australia. This boost comes in the wake of a recovery in supplies to China and Hong Kong after Beijing, in late March, lifted punitive tariffs that had been imposed on Australian wine, which reached as high as 218% three years prior.

A 2023 blend from Bhutan Wine Company marks a significant milestone as the first-ever wine produced in the Kingdom of Bhutan, with an anticipated 2024 Chenin Blanc in the pipeline.

Located in Paro, Bhutan, Bhutan Wine Company boasts its very own vineyard.

Back in 2017, a couple, Mike Juergens and Ann Cross, journeyed to Bhutan to participate in the country’s international marathon. Upon completing the race, Juergens asked around to find out where they could explore the vineyards of this South Asian gem, only to learn that there were none—the Bhutanese wine scene was virtually nonexistent, until now.

“It had the look and feel of a classic wine region, so we assumed there were vineyards there,” Juergens shared with Forbes. “We felt strongly that this was a missed opportunity not just for Bhutan but for the world of wine.”

As October 2024 arrives, the venture that the couple started, Bhutan Wine Company, is set to unveil the first-ever wine produced in Bhutan, sourced from their 2023 vintage. The launch features a unique blend made from six varieties of red grapes and four varieties of white grapes harvested from four distinct vineyards, all under the label Ser Kem. This name, which means ‘alcoholic gift for the gods,’ was selected after consulting with monks who specialize in naming Bhutanese children, as noted by British wine critic and advisory board member for Bhutan Wine Company, Jancis Robinson, in an article she penned here. This distinctive wine will be available exclusively within the Kingdom of Bhutan. In 2025, they plan to launch their first commercial offering: a 2024 Chenin Blanc harvested in June.

Upon their return to southern California in 2017, Juergens and Cross set about creating a 10-year business strategy, which featured an outline of initial ideas for regulating wine production in a nation with no history of viticulture. They shared these plans with the Bhutanese government, and after thorough discussions with local agencies, they secured the approval to establish the country’s inaugural winery and to cultivate the first vineyards.

The initial step involved importing vines. In 2019, Bhutan Wine Company collaborated with Sebastian Traviesa from Sunridge Nurseries to bring in the first grape varieties and commence planting the country’s first vineyards.

Considering the many uncertainties associated with this endeavor, Juergens and his team—which includes international viticultural consultant Russell Moss, winemaker Matt Brain, and chief operating officer Karma Choeda—decided to focus on grape varieties that had extensive knowledge regarding their cultivation, as well as those known to flourish in diverse regions around the globe.

The 2024 harvest of Chenin Blanc from GorTshalu Vineyard marked Bhutan’s inaugural commercial harvest.

The vineyard has successfully planted a diverse selection of 10 red varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Tempranillo, along with six white varieties, including Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. Additionally, two hybrid varieties were introduced in vineyards situated at elevations ranging from 500 feet to over 9,000 feet. This initiative aims to discover which varieties will not only flourish in their unique locations but also authentically represent the Bhutanese terroir. “We are open to the possibility of blends, single varietals, sweet wines, or anything else that may emerge,” stated Juergens and Cross.

“Establishing world-class grapes in a country with no previous experience will require time,” emphasized Brain, who transitioned to the team from Alpha Omega Winery in Napa Valley. “While it’s still too soon to determine which varieties will excel the most, we are starting to see promising signs from various types at this early juncture.”

Bhutan’s natural environment offers significant advantages for viticulture; Juergens and Cross highlight Bhutan’s unique status as the only carbon-negative country globally, featuring pristine, varied soils, microplastic-free water, and unpolluted air. These factors contribute to Bhutan’s ability to cultivate some of the finest crops on the planet. “If this terroir is capable of producing the world’s best guava, it’s not an unreasonable expectation that it can also yield some of the finest grapes,” they remarked.

“Moreover,” they elaborated, “the impressive variety of elevations ranging from 500 feet to over 25,000 feet allows us to explore multiple grape varieties rather than committing to just one.”

Even with the unique natural beauty of Bhutan, and the founders’ extensive experience in the wine industry—Juergens as the global leader in Deloitte’s Winery Solutions and Services consulting and a Master of Wine candidate, while Cross brings expertise in brand management along with a WSET Diploma—numerous unknown variables still exist in this venture.

Given that there has been (and still is) no history of wine production in Bhutan, Juergens and Cross will persist in observing, analyzing, and determining how the diverse microclimates, soil characteristics, and varying altitudes of their ten vineyards influence each grape variety. This careful examination emphasizes their clear and thoughtful goal: “to capture the essence of Bhutan rather than simply create another generic wine.”

As Bhutan Wine Company steadily transforms experimentation into success with their initial commercial production, they have already begun to see positive outcomes from their project, contributing to new opportunities for Bhutan.

“We are educating many individuals on the art of viticulture; our current team dedicated to this field comprises over 50 individuals, both full-time and part-time,” stated Juergens. As their production capabilities grow, the positive impact on the Bhutanese economy will become more pronounced, resulting in the creation of new job opportunities in agriculture, local cooperages, hospitality, and wine tourism.

“This development will enable them to enhance one of their existing primary sectors, which is tourism, by incorporating wine experiences into the broader Bhutanese tourist offerings,” Juergens remarked on the additional advantages of nurturing Bhutanese wine. Most importantly, he emphasized, “this endeavor enables the people of Bhutan to share their incredible country with the world, particularly with those who may never have the chance to visit Bhutan.”

The inaugural release marks the initial move toward potentially defining Bhutan’s future in viticulture, as the Bhutan Wine Company team takes a bold approach to cultivate the world’s newest wine region in 150 years.

“We believe the last instance of a nation without indigenous wine grapes building a complete wine industry from the ground up was New Zealand in the 1800s,” Juergens elaborated. “Thus, there is a significant amount of support for this initiative to see what it may yield.”

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts.

Our community is dedicated to bringing people together through open and thoughtful conversations. We encourage our readers to express their opinions and exchange ideas and facts in a safe environment.

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Giselle and Stephen Jiroch from California have spent the last four years exploring the world on a full-time basis. The duo has shared a list of essential destinations to visit in the U.S.

California is the leading wine producer in the nation, accounting for a remarkable 81% of the wine produced in the United States. According to information from the Wine Institute’s website, the state produced 605,981,608 gallons in 2023.

Visitors to California can enjoy a unique insight into the wine production process through a range of distinctive tours offered by various wineries.

A popular highlight that many wineries provide is the opportunity to explore their wine caves.

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Across California, wine caves have been established as ideal spaces for aging large barrels of wine, as noted by Visit California.

Typically, wine cave tours are paired with tastings of exclusive wines.

California offers a wealth of opportunities for wine enthusiasts, featuring tours of distinctive wine caves. (George Rose/Getty Images)

California boasts a plethora of wineries, each offering a distinct experience for visitors, many of which feature cave tours.

Here are just a few of the numerous wineries in California you can visit to discover their wine caves. 

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One such winery is Alexander Valley Vineyards, situated in the charming city of Healdsburg, located in Sonoma County, California.

This site provides guided tours of an impressive 48,000 square-foot underground cave located on the premises.

During your visit, you’ll have the chance to discover the fascinating barrel aging process employed at the vineyard.

The wine cave at Alexander Valley Vineyards is a well-known destination for tourists in California.

Furthermore, there are numerous other activities you can arrange, including scenic hikes of the vineyard.

The family-owned Bella Vineyards offers wine tastings and cave tours for visitors.

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Bella Vineyards and Wine Caves is situated in Healdsburg. According to their website, more than 70% of the grapes used in their wines are sourced from the vineyard itself.

The “Bella Tour,” touted as an “immersive winery experience” on the website, invites guests to delve into the winemaking process, from the crush pad to the vineyard.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the wine caves, enveloped by the barrels where exquisite wine reaches perfection.

Within these wine caves, oak barrels house the wine, allowing it to age under optimal conditions.

The “Bella Tour” is designed to last approximately 90 minutes, as stated on the winery’s website.

At Jarvis Estate Winery, guests are invited into a sprawling 45,000 square foot cave, where they can discover more about the winery’s philosophy in producing world-class wines.

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The guided tour through the wine cave features a visit to the Cuve Gallery, showcasing more than a dozen oak vessels, as outlined on the winery’s site. At the conclusion of the tour, visitors will encounter an underground waterfall that plays a key role in maintaining the ideal temperature for wine aging, according to the site.

Following the exploration of the cave, participants will move on to the Tasting Chamber, where they can enjoy samples of the exquisite wines.

A vast 45,000 square foot cave is situated within Jarvis Estate Winery.

Pine Ridge Vineyards is one of the numerous wineries situated in Napa Valley, California.

The vineyard provides a 90-minute experience that includes a tour of its impressive wine cave, along with a delightful wine tasting session.

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<pDuring the guided tour, visitors are led through the fascinating cave systems, as detailed on their website, concluding with a tasting of cabernets in Cellar 47.

Benziger Family Winery is nestled in Glen Ellen, situated in the heart of Sonoma County.

According to their website, the winery produces wines from both Sonoma Mountain Ranch and various vineyards across Sonoma County.

While exploring Benziger Family Winery, visitors can gain insight into the winery’s farming methods, all while enjoying a glass of wine.

During their visit, guests will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the winery’s agricultural practices.

One of the highlights of the tour includes a visit to the wine cave, culminating in a delightful seated wine tasting complemented by cheese.

Founded in 1857, Buena Vista Winery holds the title of the oldest commercial winery in California, as stated by SonomaCounty.com.

At Buena Vista Winery, visitors can savor a glass of champagne or sparkling wine at the Bubble Lounge, and also sample wine directly from the barrels housed within the cave.

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The historic Buena Vista Winery is situated approximately a mile from Sonoma Square, as indicated on its website.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore the Château Buena Vista, conveniently found in downtown Napa.

Buena Vista Winery has a rich history, having been established in 1857.

Another notable winery, Inglenook, was founded in 1879 and is located in Rutherford, California.

During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the Italia Cave, which houses 120 fermentation tanks, as noted on Inglenook’s website.

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Moreover, guests will also visit the Infinity Cave, where barrels are kept for the aging process.

At the conclusion of the tour, visitors to Inglenook will be welcomed into one of the cellars to savor wine and cheese.

Davis Estates boasts a sprawling 11,000 square feet of caves, as highlighted on its official website. Nestled in Calistoga, California, within Napa County, the estates offer a unique experience.

Guests are invited to take tours of Davis Estates, providing an opportunity to explore the vineyard and the winery that showcases the magnificent caves.

Visitors can find numerous tasting spaces where they can unwind and savor a selection of wines.

Tours of the wine caves are typically complemented by exquisite wine tastings.

Schramsberg Vineyards is renowned for its exceptional sparkling wines.

A visit to the caves at Schramsberg Vineyards can be complemented by a tasting of either sparkling, white, or red wines.

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The vineyard is located in Calistoga, California.

Brasswood Estate boasts an impressive 17,000 square feet dedicated to caves, as highlighted on its website.

While on a cave tour at Brasswood Estate, visitors have the opportunity to taste wines crafted by a talented team led by Angelina Mondavi, according to the information provided.

A distinctive aspect of Brasswood Estate is its wine cave library, where guests can savor wines at the elongated table situated in the center.

This remarkable estate can be found in Helena, California, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley.

Ashlyn Messier is a contributor for Fox News Digital.

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TAUTAVEL, FRANCE – AUGUST 29: Workers from Italy, Spain, Morocco, and Algeria have gathered in this renowned wine-producing region earlier than expected for the annual grape harvest. (Photo by Giloustan France/Getty Images)

With the ongoing discussions regarding proposed tariffs on imported goods, the impact on the wine and spirits industry could be significant. To explore this further, I had a conversation with Ben Aneff, who serves as the President of the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance (USWTA) and is also a Managing Partner at Tribeca Wine Merchants.

Ben Aneff of the USWTA views tariffs on wine and spirits as an issue that affects all countries involved.

First of all, can you explain the “three-tier system”?

Certainly! In the United States, the distribution of alcohol operates through a three-tier system. The first tier is made up of producers, who sell their products to wholesalers in the second tier, and those wholesalers then distribute to retailers and restaurants in the third tier.

Do you believe changes to this system represent a positive development?

That’s an interesting question, but at the moment, this remains the existing legal framework.

Potential buyers sample wine at the International Wine and Spirits Fair held in Hong Kong on November 5, 2009.

Wine consumption is experiencing a decline worldwide, including in traditional markets like France and Italy, and the anticipated growth in Asia has not materialized. What is your vision for the wine market five years from now?

The trend of “premium-ization” in the wine industry is gaining attention. While people are reducing their overall wine intake, they are opting for higher-quality options. The market is seeing a decrease in purchases of very low-cost wines as consumers increasingly desire exceptional quality and engaging narratives behind the wines they choose. Individuals are now more curious about the winemakers and the vineyards that craft the wines they enjoy. This heightened awareness is fostering a shift away from generic big-box brands as consumers seek to connect with the stories and craftsmanship behind smaller, more artisanal producers. In five years, this could lead to challenges for bulk commercial wine sales, whereas small-scale vineyards dedicated to producing high-quality wines—even from lesser-known regions—are likely to thrive.

What impact will tariffs have?

Tariffs imposed on imported goods inevitably raise prices for U.S. consumers and reduce profit margins for businesses reliant on these wines. There is optimism that future administrations will recognize that such tariffs adversely affect American businesses more than those in other countries, rendering them ineffective tools for addressing trade concerns. Even domestic wine producers share reservations about tariffs on imports, as they rely on robust distribution networks to access markets. Ultimately, the next administration should focus on ensuring that tariffs on foreign products genuinely benefit U.S. interests, as the current tariffs on wine are detrimental to small American businesses and fail to motivate any change in behavior abroad.

How might this impact small, family-owned businesses nationwide?

Imported wine plays a vital role for restaurants, importers, and retailers in every state. Imposing tariffs on these wines significantly harms these businesses by increasing their expenses and decreasing their sales. Most of these establishments are small and family-owned, struggling to absorb the adverse effects of government policies.

Will tariffs on imported wines encourage Americans to purchase more domestic wines?

No. Wine is not interchangeable, meaning that a wine from one country cannot easily replace a wine from another. For instance, a Chianti from Italy would not be swapped with a wine from California. Consumers have a strong attachment to the origin of the wine they enjoy, so tariffs on imported wines do not lead to a rise in domestic wine sales. Additionally, these tariffs negatively impact local wineries by harming their distributors, who may become less capable of supporting new domestic producers—an often costly endeavor that is frequently supported by the revenues from imported wines.

Are tariffs typically reciprocal, leading to American wines facing challenges in their export markets, especially in comparison to China versus Australia, which significantly contributed to a surplus in wine supply?

This is indeed a possibility, which raises considerable concerns among domestic wineries. U.S. wineries are eager to explore new markets abroad, and the presence of tariffs on wine imports from the U.S. negatively impacts our export potential.

How does the USWTA operate as an advocacy organization and what successes has it achieved in recent years?

We advocate for a wine industry free from tariffs. The imposition of tariffs on wine proves ineffective and tends to disadvantage U.S. businesses more than those overseas. Our efforts involve educating lawmakers and stakeholders in Washington, D.C., about our industry, ensuring that trade policies pertinent to wine align with the interests of the United States. An important aspect of our work includes facilitating connections between D.C. representatives and their constituents. Notably, we have assisted constituents in sending more than 30,000 letters to their representatives, urging the exclusion of tariffs on wine.

The upcoming election is poised to impact American industries significantly, particularly since wines and spirits are often the first to face increased taxation. What measures are you implementing to mitigate this situation?

We are actively collaborating with various congressional offices to facilitate meetings between lawmakers and local business owners. These discussions emphasize the crucial role that these products play in fostering local businesses nationwide. It is vital to recognize that due to the three-tier system, U.S. businesses generate more than $4 for every $1 spent on European wines. The importation of these wines sustains hundreds of thousands of American jobs, and they are essential for the thriving of small businesses across all 50 states.

Has the USWTA made any endorsements for a Presidential candidate?

No, we have strong supporters on both sides of the political spectrum. When informed about how the impact of wine tariffs primarily affects small businesses in the United States, they acknowledge it as a significant issue that needs addressing. Although wine tariffs have been previously imposed, we remain optimistic that both parties will recognize the adverse effects of such measures.

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