Remembering Marco Felluga: A Visionary of White Wine in Italy’s Friuli Passes Away at 96
The founder of the respected winery passed away; his family has also announced a new partnership with the Tommasi family of Valpolicella
Marco Felluga, who made exquisite white wines that helped put the Collio area of Italy’s Friuli-Venezia-Giulia region on the global wine map, died April 3. He was 96.
“Friuli and the Collio region have suffered a great loss,” said fellow winemaker Silvio Jermann of Jermann winery. Jermann says that Felluga, along with fellow vintners Count Douglas Attems and Mario Schiopetto, led the drive to elevate wine quality in the Collio region, to advocate for the appellation’s promotion to DOC status and to create a regional consortium of wine producers. “Together they created the modern Collio, [and] they brought international recognition to the Friuli region. He was a great wine producer and a great man, and his loss will be felt keenly.”
Marco’s passing came shortly before his family formalized a new partnership with the Tommasi family of Valpolicella. The Tommasis have purchased a majority stake in the Felluga family’s winery and two estates—Marco Felluga and Russiz Superiore. Marco’s granddaughter Ilaria will remain at the helm of the wineries, however.
The Felluga family has been involved in the Italian wine industry since the 1800s. Following World War II, they settled in the Collio region of Friuli, where Marco and his brother Livio set up new wineries. In 1956, Marco established his namesake estate in Gradisca d’Isonzo, a town approximately 80 miles northeast of Venice and located near the Italian-Slovenian border. Both Marco and Livio believed their region held significant potential for high-quality wine, especially its white variants. In 1968, along with other forward-thinking producers, they helped to introduce the Collio DOC.
Marco was considered a trendsetter for his early decision to reduce yields, retrain vines and incorporate other methods not commonly practiced in the region. However, his vision of creating white wines that could age remains the most resonating to this day. Marco bucked the trend of producing light, easily-consumable Pinot Grigios — something Northern Italy is famous for — and instead crafted the Pinot Grigio Collio Mongris Riserva cuvée, which is aged on lees for two years before bottling.
In 1967, Felluga expanded his investment in the Collio region by purchasing the Russiz Superiore estate in Capriva del Friuli, which came with 125 acres of vineyards. Instead of increasing production for Marco Felluga’s lineup of wines, he set up Russiz Superiore as a distinct brand. Nonetheless, he applied the same philosophy of aging prior to release for the creation of long-lasting wines. The Collio Russiz Superiore Col Disôre is aged for a year in French oak barrels and another year in the bottle, while the Pinot Bianco Collio Russiz Superiore Riserva ages for three years in oak and a year in the bottle.
Brian Larky, founder and CEO of Dalla Terra Winery Direct, Felluga’s U.S. importer since the 1990s, remarked, “[For Marco,] America was always a key objective. Establishing Friuli, Collio, and Marco Felluga were priorities. Marco was always inseparable from his beloved region.”
Ilaria, the granddaughter of Marco and daughter of Roberto, who previously managed the wine estate together, unfortunately passed away due to cancer in 2021. Since then, Ilaria has stepped in to oversee the wineries with financial support from the Tomassi family. Ilaria reassures, “I will carry on leading the companies, alongside our team. The Tommasi Family will aid me in funding for expansion and progression. Our underlying principles will continue to be those that my grandfather Marco and my father Roberto chose to ground their efforts and perspective towards the wine industry.”
Massimo Zorzettig, a co-owner of the adjacent Friuli Colli Orientali appellation’s winery Tunella, admires Marco for his “foresight in his devotion and obligation towards a first-rate regional viticulture. He made significant contributions towards enhancing the territory and the quality wine of Friuli-Venezia-Giulia. [He was] one of the forefathers of Friulian wine.”
Stay updated on crucial wine stories with Wine Spectator’s complimentary Breaking News Alerts.
Florida Video Captures Man Held at Gunpoint Requesting to Drink Cold Beer
A man intimidating neighbors with a gun was still firing shots in the dark when police arrived, according to officers, but the confrontation took an even more unexpected turn when he insisted on drinking a beer while held at gunpoint.
“This beer is cold, sir, and I wanna drink it. … Is that cool?” the suspect is heard asking in a video posted by the Port Orange Police Department on Facebook.
The standoff includes the distinctive sound of an aluminum can being popped open.
Port Orange police say the unusual arrest happened around 9 p.m. Tuesday, when a man reported he was being “threatened with a firearm” by one of his neighbors. Port Orange is about a 60-mile drive northeast of Orlando.
“Officers arrived on scene and while investigating, the suspect … exited his residence and fired a firearm in the area of the officers, victim, and several neighbors who were outside at the time,” police said in a news release.
“Officers moved in towards the sound of the gunshot and located (a man) outside the front of his residence.”
The 32-year-old man was standing behind his picket fence, wearing sunglasses in the dark and holding two beers when police arrived, body camera video shows.
“Let me see your hands,” an officer yells.
“Can I crack this beer?” the suspect responds. “I’m going to drink this beer.”
It’s not clear in the video how much beer was consumed before the unarmed suspect agreed to turn around and put his hands behind his back. He is seen, however, tossing the cans into a trash bin.
He was arrested and a search of the home revealed two handguns, including a .38 Special revolver, officials said.
The man is charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, three counts of assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of using a firearm while under the influence of alcohol, jail records show.
©2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency LLC.
Mastering the Art of Pairing Vodka and Caviar: Insights from a Fine Dining Chef
When considering alcohol accompaniments to caviar, Champagne and caviar are amongst the most revered choices. These two delicacies are celebrated for their luxurious qualities and hence their pairing seems quite fitting. Interestingly, a more commonly chosen pairing for caviar is vodka. This combination likely originated from Russia, where vodka and caviar are renowned products and this pairing is regularly enjoyed. Beyond the geographical commonality, this duo interacts beautifully on taste and texture levels. Chef Matt Baker, the head chef and owner of Gravitas in Washington D.C., recently discussed the ideal way to savour this combination and why it works so well with Tasting Table.
“The combination of vodka and caviar is incredibly lavish and refined,” says Baker. “They pair superbly as the velvety feel of good caviar complements a dry vodka.” The contrasting characteristics of the two create a dynamic flavour palette and textural interaction. The bite of the vodka can be smoothed out by a high-quality, silky caviar. Meanwhile, vodka’s sharp taste stops the caviar from becoming overly rich or dominating. Baker prefers savouring vodka and caviar with a classic vodka martini (mixed with Kettle One) “Use less of the vermouth, and incline more towards lemon zest,” he advises. As a dedicated vodka enthusiast, Baker’s concoction allows the vodka to take centre stage.
Read more: 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have
You might prefer to savor your caviar in its pure form or perhaps you could follow Matt Baker’s suggestion and embellish it with creme fraiche and herbs. For added sophistication, he enjoys serving caviar on a black truffle brioche. Another fun and casual way to enjoy caviar is on a potato chip as the saltiness of the chip adds texture to the mild taste of the caviar. Also, the hearty flavour of the chip complements the vodka nicely.
If you’re not a fan of vodka martinis, you could try drinking the spirit neat for the full impact of the flavors — and this is more traditionally how this combo would be enjoyed in Russia. To get the best results, use a high-quality vodka and make sure everything is extremely chilled. Your bottle and serving glasses should all go in the freezer for a considerable amount of time before serving so you get the coldest results possible. Cold vodka makes for a smoother sipping experience, which is ideal for caviar. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a better-tasting vodka for this.
Read the original article on Tasting Table
Uncovering the Treasures of Wadi Rum, Jordan: Top Recommendations for Your Visit
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, offers a breathtaking desert landscape in Jordan that is unlike any other place on Earth.
This protected area is famous for its towering sandstone mountains, vast red sands, and ancient rock carvings.
Visitors come here to experience the serene beauty of the desert and to embark on adventures that are both unique and memorable.
Glamping in Wadi Rum takes camping to luxurious heights.
Nestled in the desert’s silence, modern tents offer all comforts.
Here, nights under a star-filled sky blend with sunrises over rolling dunes.
It’s an experience that lets travelers enjoy nature’s serenity without giving up the conveniences of home, making for an unforgettable stay in the tranquil desert landscape.
A four-by-four tour across Wadi Rum’s Martian-like landscape is an exhilarating experience not to be missed.
These tours allow you to cover large areas of the desert, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Burdah Rock Bridge and Khazali Canyon where ancient petroglyphs can be seen.
The drive through dramatic canyons and across sweeping dunes provides both thrills and unparalleled photo opportunities.
Wadi Rum is not just about stunning landscapes; it’s also home to fascinating history etched into its rocks.
Exploring these ancient petroglyphs gives visitors insight into early human life in this region.
Guides can take you to see these carvings up close, explaining their historical context and significance.
It’s like stepping back in time thousands of years.
For those who love outdoor activities, hiking in Wadi Rum offers an unforgettable adventure.
There are trails suitable for all levels of hikers, leading through narrow gorges and up rugged mountainsides to reveal panoramic views of the desert below.
The hike up Jebel Um Ad Dami, Jordan’s highest peak, rewards climbers with spectacular vistas stretching out into Saudi Arabia.
Jason Moma Visits Belgrade for Promotion of his Montanan Vodka
NonStop Local Digital Journalist
MEILI REVOLUTION TOUR CALIFORNIA
MEILI MONTANA 2023 SUMMER
MEILI REVOLUTION TOUR CALIFORNIA
BELGRADE, Mont. – Actor Jason Momoa will be paying a visit to Belgrade Liquor THIS Sunday, April 21 to meet with fans and promote his Montana-made, Meili Vodka, along with entrepreneur and Meili co-founder, Blaine Halvorson.
Momoa and Halvorson will stop by Belgrade Liquor on Sunday, April 21 from 12:00 to 1:30 pm to take photos with fans and sign bottles of Meili while celebrating their multi-award winning, Bozeman-made vodka.
Momoa is perhaps best known for his roles as Khal Drogo in the tv series, Game of Thrones, and as Aquaman in DC Universe films.
Meili vodka will be available for PRE-SALE as 6-pack cases only, at a discounted price of $134.75. Cases will include 3 signed keepsake bottles and 3 unsigned bottles to enjoy!
In addition, with the purchase of a PRE-SALE case, customers will receive a ‘Golden Ticket’ which will grant them VIP advance line-up for photo-op and product pick-up at the event – meaning less wait time than day-of purchasers!
IMPORTANT TO NOTE: No liquor purchased within the store at Belgrade Liquor can ever leave the store and be brought back inside. – Bottle purchases for the signing must be made either as a Pre-sale or through the purchase line on the day of the event – there will be NO exceptions to this rule.
Pre-sale is not required, however the event is a first come, first served basis. You MUST be 21 and up to purchase alcohol and to attend the event.
At the event, purchases must be completed inside the store before entering the photo-op line. Signed bottles are prioritized for Pre-sale Golden Ticket holders.
Golden Ticket holders will be admitted to the photo-op line beginning at 10am on the 21st. Doors will open at Noon at Belgrade Liquor for day-of Meili Vodka sales and photo-ops.
Individuals are encouraged to reach out to Belgrade Liquor through email at info@belgradeliquor.com to inquire about the Pre-sale case purchase or any other details regarding the event.
Meili officially made its debut last year led by Momoa and Halvorson after an ambitious seven-year journey to create “the only vodka worth sipping straight”. Meili has bagged 9 awards since its launch and the creators are thrilled to celebrate this success with MT fans in Meili’s home state.
It is strongly advised that individuals always drink responsibly and in moderation.
NonStop Local Digital Journalist
{{description}}
Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
Currently in Missoula
Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup.
Error! There was an error processing your request.
Tap into Non-Stop News from Montana Right Now! From the Big Story to the 3 Things to Know – we have the moment’s essential headlines.
Local news headlines from NonStop Local in Great Falls and Helena – delivered to your email inbox every weekday.
Local news headlines from NonStop Local Bozeman and Butte – delivered to your email inbox every weekday.
Local news headlines from NonStop Local in Missoula and Kalispell – delivered to your email inbox every weekday.
Get the latest headlines on local sports! News from UM, MSU, High School sports and more.
Here’s a list of the top 5 things to know about chronic wasting disease this hunting season.
Ranking Every Edition of Rip Van Winkle Whiskey
For bourbon enthusiasts, Pappy Van Winkle is a name that represents both excellence and rarity. This renowned brand crafts exquisite whiskey, and any obtained bottle is instantly cherished. If your goal is to acquire such a bottle, this is your ideal guide. In this article, I’ll evaluate and rank the six bottles presently produced by Old Rip Van Winkle to determine the best one. We will also examine the elements that evolved it into a highly esteemed whiskey brand.
These bourbons carry a luxury price tag, particularly in secondary markets. Hence, they will be judged solely based on taste. Individual preferences will be considered, including why a particular whiskey might rank higher on somebody else’s list. Having had the opportunity to savour most of these bottles, along with numerous other whiskeys, equips me to provide a balanced, experience-based ranking. All you have to do now is to join me on this excursion through some of the world’s finest whiskeys.
Learn more: The 27 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked
The exploration of this superb brand begins with the Van Winkle Special Reserve, affectionately known as the 12-year or “Lot B.” The label Lot B originated when Julian Van Winkle III differentiated the 12-year-old barrels back in 1991. The limited supply of Lot A was rapidly depleted, whereas the higher quantity of Lot B bottles took longer to sell. Owing to the nostalgia now associated, all subsequent bottles were marketed under the Lot B name. It’s essential to note that no whiskey here is substandard. The ratings range from good to fantastic, hence, even though the Van Winkle Special Reserve ranks last, it remains an admirable whiskey.
This 12-year-old bourbon is plenty complex. Despite its extended aging, there’s just a whiff of oak, accompanied by a plethora of orchard fruits and cherries. These fruits are also present on the palate, enhancing the high level of sweetness. The bourbon is not very warm, due to its low proof of 90.4. However, it’s a deliciously smooth concoction finished off with rich caramel, making the tasting an unforgettable experience. The fruity notes carry to the finish and meld with a slight nutty flavor. The tasting notes are slightly lighter than other varieties and lack the same strength, hence the lower ranking. Yet it remains a fantastic bourbon. Get lucky picking it up from your local Costco.
In the whiskey world, age is usually equated to quality. Whilst this holds some truth, the actual scenario is more complex. Unlike Scotch, Bourbon ages in new oak casks, impacting flavor faster. Thus, a 23-year old bourbon will have a more significant oak influence than a similar-aged Scotch. Consequently, the Family Reserve 23 Year expression often divides opinion. If strong wood flavors are not in your tastes, it’s wise to explore other Pappy bottles. This is the reason I didn’t rank it higher.
I have a preference for earthy tastes, but this particular bottle takes it overboard. The expression is instantly recognizable due to its deep amber color that suggests internal complexity. The aroma is not overwhelmingly woodsy, and you can savor cherries amongst other sweet notes. Initially, oak dominates the palate, but as you continue to taste, many other flavors like a strong hint of vanilla crop up. As the tasting progresses, cherry and chocolate flavors come to the forefront. The finish is pleasantly sweet and expectedly long-lasting. While not everyone may enjoy its extreme oakiness, I believe it’s a well-balanced bourbon.
Age is not the ultimate measure of a good bourbon, and this delicious 10-year-old variety is a must-have. The cost does not influence these rankings, but it’s a bonus that this expression has the lowest suggested retail price among all Old Rip Van Winkle bottles. Despite being the youngest on the list, it retains the sophistication and quality synonymous with the Van Winkle brand. This stunning copper-colored bourbon exudes a straightforward yet delightful aroma. Tasting this bourbon is a butterscotch journey, with traces of caramel and a ginger-like spiciness adding intrigue to its aroma.
The palate offers more warmth than the nose suggests. The spice notes evolve, revealing hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Other earthy flavors like tobacco and nuts are also present. A rich sweetness overlays this foundation, with the caramel tasting especially delightful. Although it doesn’t boast a depth of flavor to rank higher on our list, it emphasizes the familiar bourbon flavors very effectively. This 107 proof bourbon offers a bold character while maintaining the well-loved smoothness of Pappy. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking your first bottle of Old Rip Van Winkle. It is generally the most affordable and obtainable bottle, yet remains a delightful pour.
Moving on, we turn our attention from bourbon to rye whiskey. While most bourbons incorporate rye in the mash bill, Old Rip Van Winkle employs wheat instead. This results in the brand’s sole rye whiskey and the only bottle to contain any rye. However, it doesn’t taste like the majority of rye whiskeys in the market. Rye is reputed for lending a spicy kick to the whiskey, but here, it offers a comforting warmth instead. The deep amber coloration, coupled with the immediate hit of clove, cinnamon, and pepper fragrances warming your soul, are balanced by delightful notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla.
These flavors can all be identified on the palate. This whiskey type prompts a wave of robust flavor that enlivens the senses and washes away anything presently occupying your mind. The rye grain is pronounced, providing immense depth without being overbearing. Additional flavors like stone fruits, a subtle hint of smoke, and a nutty touch can be detected on the palate. Despite the high proof and flavor intensity, it remains smooth with a velvety mouthfeel. It falls short of the top two mainly due to its particular taste, which may not appeal universally. However, if you’re a fan of the rye influence in whiskey, you’re bound to adore it.
Deciding on the top two was exceptionally challenging. I eventually concluded that the top-placed expression offered marginally more depth. Yet, this bottle is undoubtedly a strong contender for the world’s best bourbon aged 15 years or less. This bottle enjoys wide reverence among whiskey connoisseurs worldwide. The aroma unveils a variety of enticing notes, predominantly berries and cherries, lending it a fruity essence. Alongside a tastefully sweet profile, you’re also treated to a pleasant cedar fragrance. Sipping this famed bourbon unearths diverse tasting notes within a luxuriant, buttery mouthfeel.
You first get a wave of caramel and vanilla sweetness, which gently ebbs away to unveil its layers of complexity. Flavors of dark chocolate, leather, and roasted nuts dance along your tongue before you get a spicy warmth of cinnamon. Despite its age, the oak influence is relatively subtle and allows this expression to be remarkably smooth. The finish is long, with the earthy wood and spice notes continuing to the end. It’s an excellent bourbon with impressive consistency from one batch to the next. If you can get your hands on a bottle, this whiskey will be cherished on those special occasions.
The immense depth and complexity of this 20-year-old means that it just about secures the top spot. I said above about how the 23-year had a heavy oak influence. This bottle does too, but in a much more subtle way, making it a sure-fire winner for any bourbon lover. Old Rip Van Winkle bottles can sometimes be overhyped but this is a masterpiece of whiskey craftsmanship. It has that stunningly rich color many of these bottles share and that color starts a sensory journey. The next step is the nose, which is intoxicatingly inviting. The vanilla and caramel give it a graceful aroma before you can pick out a rich tapestry of dried fruits, cherries, cinnamon, and oak.
The smell promises an indulgent tasting experience, and that’s exactly what you get. The mouthfeel is rich and refined, allowing you to unveil the layers of flavor gently. Along with the notes on the nose, we get some brown sugar, dark chocolate, and toasted wood. The 20 years of aging give it a depth that doesn’t end there, and you can also enjoy leather, tobacco, and baking spices. The oak provides a rock-solid foundation to the flavor instead of dominating it. This expression is a testament to the artistry of the Old Rip Van Winkle distillery. Whenever you get the chance to taste it, this is a bourbon to be savored and cherished.
With most whiskey ranking lists, I usually consider price and availability. I didn’t do that here, as all Old Rip Van Winkle bottles can be hard to find and difficult to buy at their suggested retail price. Due to this, I only considered the tasting notes of nose, palate, and finish to rank these bottles.
I’ve had the pleasure of tasting most of these expressions over my many years of enjoying bourbon, including tasting different yearly batches. I have also enhanced my knowledge and experience with a wide range of views from bourbon experts and enthusiasts, along with the opinions of friends who have tasted Old Rip Van Winkle. This was to produce a list that, while filled with my opinion and tasting notes, also offers a more rounded view of how good these bottles are.
Read the original article on Tasting Table
Jason Kelce Discusses the Controversy Over Travis Kelce’s Beer Chug: Why It Should Upset You
While Travis Kelce attempted to explain away his controversial beer chug, brother Jason Kelce started a new conversation about why people should actually be upset.
During the Wednesday, April 17, episode of his “New Heights” podcast, Travis, 34, addressed the backlash after a live taping ended with him chugging a beer at an impromptu graduation ceremony at their alma mater.
“Lastly, we ended the night in a truly epic fashion. Since neither of us got a chance to walk during our graduation ceremonies,” Travis explained about how he and Jason, 36, previously graduated from the University of Cincinnati. “We both already got our degrees, so all of you that are thinking this was a graduation ceremony because we just finished our degrees and it was a very serious thing, it was kind of a fun way to close out the night.”
The Kansas City Chiefs tight end clarified why he ended up chugging a beer during the informal event, adding, “Hopefully you can understand that me chugging the beer was because I had a beer in my hand and I had to receive the diploma. I had to get the beer out of my hand some way and I might as well just finish it. It happened to be full, I don’t know how that happened.”
Football Players Who Have Brothers That Also Play in the NFL: The Kelces, The Mannings and More
Jason, however, pointed out that Travis didn’t successfully finish his drink. “There was still beer pouring out of it,” the former Philadelphia Eagles center noted, to which Travis replied that there was just “foam” left in the cup.
The siblings subsequently got into a disagreement over whether Travis completed his beer chug.
“If there’s anything anyone should be upset with is that you didn’t finish that chug,” Jason added. “[It was] not a successful chug.”
Travis disagreed with Jason, saying, “I did finish it. You were scared to brace me. You were terrified. You don’t want the misery that is coming.”
Jason continued to argue that Travis didn’t actually finish his drink. “I think if you would have finished your beer then people would be way less upset with you,” he joked. “People chug out of beer cans all the time. If there’s that much foam coming out of the can then universally we can accept that that is not a complete chug.”
A Swiftie’s Guide to Travis Kelce: Everything to Know About Taylor Swift’s Rumored New Man
Travis ended the back-and-forth by claiming that he could “chug faster” than his brother. He also reiterated that fans shouldn’t get upset about the event because it “wasn’t that serious.”
Earlier this month, Jason defended Travis’ behavior after it made headlines, writing via X, “I know it looks like a graduation from the video, but this was actually at the end of a ‘New Heights Live’ podcast that we put on to raise money for the University’s NIL. The university did this to poke fun at my brother and I for never really picking up our diplomas.”
Jason is no stranger to shotgunning beer as well. While attending Travis’ Kansas City Chiefs playoff game in January, Jason notably took his shirt off and climbed out the suite in excitement.
Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce’s Most Supportive Quotes About Each Other
“I mean, honestly one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had from start to finish. Buffalo, Bills Mafia … it was an electric atmosphere,” he recalled during a January episode of their podcast. “This was an opportunity to honestly just go someplace and forget about all that and just go have fun and root on [my] brother.”
Jason explained at the time that it was always the plan for him to celebrate the Chiefs’ victory in style.
“I wanted to go outside early and I wanted to take my shirt off then and be out there. I feel like — I don’t know if I’m wrong in my head — I feel like taking your shirt off is a Buffalo Bills thing, right?” he added. “I’m like, ‘Dude, I want the full experience.’ I wanted to take everything off and be out there with the fans. … I feel like at this tailgate I was possessed by Bills Mafia.”
Exploring Istanbul’s Top 5 Wine Bars
Ladies is bar with red wine
Turkey is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world—so it only makes sense that its largest city would be home to some pretty decent wine bars and wine-focused restaurants with great local wine.
You’ll also want to keep in mind that the importation fees and markups on international wine and booze in Turkey, in general, are quite high—which is another reason why we suggest focusing on wine bars that serve local wine over, say, French or Italian options.
Looking for the best spots to sample Turkish wine? Here are five of the best wine bars in Istanbul—the following addresses range from cozy local spots on the Asian side to bigger bars just adjacent to the more popular tourist attractions on the European side of the city so you can sample great wine wherever you find yourself.
Wayana Wine Bar in Kadıköy is widely considered to be the best wine bar in the city—and once you arrive it’ll be easy to see why. The compact indoor-outdoor venue has a solid small plate menu and it’s the only wine bar in the city that offers every single wine on its wine list by the glass; it’s a great way to get to know your favorite grapes if you’re still getting to know Turkish wine!
Solera Winery on Yeni Çarşı in Beyoğlu is exactly what most folks conjure up when envisioning a classic wine bar. The dimly lit and cozy atmosphere is coupled with a chalk board menu and highly knowledgable sommeliers available to guide you throughout the evening. The quaint space is also one of the more affordable spots in Istanbul for ordering wine by the glass or the bottle.
Tucked into Şişhane, Comedus is a wine bar and shop where you’ll find a great selection of local and international wine and beer for sale by the bottle. The charming space also has a handful of tables where you’re welcomed to enjoy a glass of wine and sample some of the shop’s best cheeses and charcuteries.
Viktor Levi Şarap Evi in Kadıköy is a charming spot for casual eats on the Asian side of the city. The wine bar and restaurant has a sprawling outdoor garden and patio that makes this a top spot for cozy date nights. Keep in mind that this spot serves its own Viktor Levi wine—so if there’s a specific label you’re looking for, you might have better luck at one of the other options on the list.
If you’re short on time in the city and are hoping to find a wine bar that isn’t too far from the main tourist hot spots, you’ll want to check out Vigneron Wine House. The cozy cave-like bar is just around the corner from the Galata Tower and offers a great selection of local wine by the bottle and glass. There’s also a great sharing menu if you’re in the mood for nibbles with your vino.
Exploring the Growing Popularity of Wine among the 30-Something Demographic: A New Study Unveils
30-Something Millennials Enjoying Wine
The death of wine among U.S. Millennials is grossly exaggerated, according to a new study by Wine Market Council, a non-profit research firm. Though other recent reports have bemoaned the fact that Millennials (ages 27 to 42 in 2023) are not adopting wine at the rate of other generations, now that the majority are in their 30’s, that trend is reversing.
In fact, not only are 30-something Millennials consuming more wine, but high-end Millennial consumers spend more per bottle on average than Baby Boomers. At a recent conference, Wine Market Council (WMC) Director of Research, Christian Miller, commented on these findings.
“Despite all of the concerns in the press, this study shows that the Millennial generation has not underperformed in terms of their population as wine drinkers across time,” said Christian Miller.
The study, known as the U.S. Wine Consumer Benchmark Segmentation Survey, has been run by WMC every one to two years since 1997, making it the longest continual survey of the American wine consumer, having completed 18 studies to this point.
In the 2023 study, a sample of 4,470 legal drinking age Americans were surveyed, which included 1,584 wine consumers. I, as the President of Wine Market Council, assisted in analyzing the results. However, the survey was conducted by research provider, Caravan OmniBus.
This year’s WMC study incorporated a longitudinal analysis by Miller that compared the average wine consumption rates of Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z consumers as they came of legal drinking age at 21 years old.
The below graph illustrates how Millennials lead in the 2023 average consumption rates at 36%. It also captures the ‘Covid Hangover’ effect, somewhat due to some Americans beginning to drink less alcohol generally as a result of increased consumption during the worst of the pandemic, among other reasons.
Percent of Wine Consumption by American Generation Across Time
In addition, this analysis highlights an interesting phenomenon in that both Millennials and Gen Z embraced wine at higher levels when they first turned age 21, only to have that decline. However, with Millennials, wine consumption has since increased.
This supports other wine lifecycle research showing that young adults enjoy experimenting with different beverages when they first reach legal drinking age, but generally do not adopt wine as a more regular part of their lifestyle until they reach their 30’s, when they are more settled, and often have higher-paying jobs, mortgages, and a family.
Indeed, the 2023 WMC study showed that 71% of American wine drinkers own a home, 60% are married, 53% live in the suburbs, and 36% have children under the age of 18 living at home.
It’s interesting to note that now, high-income millennials are emerging as competition for high-income baby boomers (those aged 60+) in terms of wine consumption significance. Commenting on this revelation, we have insight from Danny Brager, a seasoned wine business analyst and prior senior vice president of Nielsen’s Beverage Alcohol Practice Area, who also serves on the WMC Advisory Board.
“Core wine consumers, those who consume wine at least once a week or more, consist of one-third upper-income millennials. This group now represents a larger sector of the essential Core wine consumer segment than high-income baby boomers,” Brager revealed. “Add to that, the millennial generation’s size has now surpassed that of the baby boomers.”
High-Income Millennials Now Outpacing Boomers as Fundamental Wine Consumers
Looking deeper, when we categorize consumers into premium wine consumers who regularly part with $20 or more on a bottle of wine, millennials in their 30s will shell out an average of $65.80 per bottle. In comparison, baby boomers aged 60+ are only willing to part with an average of $36.67 on special wine for special occasions.
Given the fact that wine sales volume has decreased in the U.S. in the last few years, I reached out to several winery professionals to see if they were experiencing the same increases in Millennial wine consumption and purchasing behavior. They confirmed that it was true, especially with higher-priced wine, wine that falls in the ‘better for you category,’ and wine that is more inclusive.
“The 30-something group, surprisingly young and responsible for 83% of purchases over $15, illustrates a vibrant, opportunity-filled market landscape far from the pessimistic portrayal of younger wine enthusiasts,” reported Karen Daenen, Director, Research & Consumer Insights, Jackson Family Wines.
At Scheid Family Wines, Heidi Scheid, Executive Vice President, said, “Millennials and Gen Z share a different relationship with wine then their parents did. They appear to embrace moderation, which is actually a good thing! The greater focus on health and wellness from the younger generations inspired our development of our zero sugar, low alcohol wine option, Sunny with a Chance of Flowers.”
Tapping into the growing diversity of the U.S. population, Ceja Vineyards, a Mexican-American family owned winery in Napa Valley, is finding success with food and wine pairings.
“At Ceja Vineyards, we’ve noticed an uptick in the number of millennials who are members of our Casa Ceja Wine Club and who turn out for our quarterly wine release gatherings. Our Mexican roots are central to our approach, and we take pride in matching authentic Mexican food with our well-balanced wines. How about Mole Poblano with a Cabernet Sauvignon? It’s an invigorating change for millennials in pursuit of novel wine experiences!” said Dalia Ceja, who is in charge of marketing.
In contradiction to earlier observations that millennials were not adopting wine to the same extent as other age groups, it seems that now, as they move into their 30s, millennials are increasingly integrating wine into their lifestyles. The question that arises now is whether or not Gen Z will follow in their footsteps. Considering only about a third of them are of legal drinking age (21 – 26), it might be some time before we know how they respond to wine marketing strategies.
Ceja Vineyards has found success in attracting millennial consumers by offering wine pairings with Mexican food.
Discover the Rye Whiskey Specifically Designed for Wine Enthusiasts
Courtesy of WhistlePig
Not long ago, I had the privileged opportunity to attend a special event hosted by WhistlePig in Houston, Texas. The event was an illuminating tasting that featured WhistlePig’s 12 Year Old World Rye, and was conducted by Master Blender Meghan Ireland and Brand Manager, Derek Hamilton. Even though I’m based in Los Angeles, they were kind enough to arrange for my air travel, allowing me to witness one of the most enlightening tastings sessions I’ve had in recent years—a breakdown of their 12 Year Old World Rye. In essence, it was a chance to gain insights into the blending process—although it revealed so much more than that. The evening saw industry individuals gathering and bonding over a New York Sour. The ‘New York Sour’, gets its name from the red wine topping it off. The chance to intimately engage with the three elements that culminate into the magical end product was truly enriching and emphasized the timeless harmonious relationship between wine and whiskey.
Courtesy of WhistlePig
The trio that forms WhistlePig’s 12 Year Old World Rye, ages in American Oak for almost 12 years. However, the final 2-4 months of this aging process occurs in wine barrels seasoned by Sauternes, Madeira, and Port. If you’re unfamiliar with these terms, let me enlighten you. Sauternes is a divinely sweet wine hailing from the Bordeaux region of France. During its production, the Semillon grape develops botrytis—a fungus that helps the sugars to concentrate uniquely by insulating the grape from outer influences. Madeira, belonging to Portugal, is an island located far from the West African coast known for its sweet wines. These unique wines are made through fortification and exposure to heat and sun, creating an irresistible elixir. Lastly, Port is made in Portugal’s Douro Valley, then matures in the humid cellars of Vila Nova di Gaia located across the Douro River from Porto. This is a fortified wine that has resisted trials and time and has been exported globally for centuries. All these wines spend ample time aging in oak barrels, and this was my chance to experience the effects of each on the oak first-hand through the tasting session.
Courtesy of WhistlePig
The final blend of WhistlePig’s 12 Year Old World Rye comes from 63% Madeira aged, 30% Sauternes aged, and 7% Port aged. The Madeira component brought the structure and body, lending some rancio and umami notes. The Sauternes component was definitely softened with a floral and fruit-forward edge. The Port aged component showed the most broad-shouldered, with a pronounced spice and meatiness to it. The old adage rings true, This 12 Year Old World Rye is truly bigger than the sum of its parts. A wine lovers dream, looking for a foray into the whiskey world.
Courtesy of WhistlePig
MK: How did the idea of wine barrel finishing first come up for the 12 Year Old World Rye?
MI: The concept of wine finishing, long utilised in the scotch industry, intrigued our founding Master Distiller, Dave. He recognised the potential in expressing the adaptability of Rye Whiskey through different wine finishes.
MK: Can you elaborate on the contributions of each component to the ultimate blend? Referring to finishes of Sauternes, Madeira, and Port.
MI: The combination of these varietals is captivating. The Sauternes contribute a distinct honey and floral aroma. The Madeira introduces a robust body and pleasurable mouthfeel to the whiskey, further adorning it with hints of roasted almonds and fruity undertones. The Port, on the other hand, deftly asserts itself on the finish, whilst still allowing for the traditional rye spice notes. It introduces delightful dark fruits flavours – think plums and raisins..
MK: Was the blend of the 12 Year Old World Rye crafted keeping a wine enthusiast’s palate in consideration?
MI: While I don’t think we were specifically thinking of wine drinkers we were definitely thinking of those with a bit of a sweet tooth. Rye whiskey is known for being bold and spicy, and one of the goals of 12yr was to create a rye whiskey for people who may be looking for something slightly softer and sweeter. So while not explicitly crafted with the wine drinker’s pallet in mind, we have found that it is the whisky in our portfolio that self claimed wine drinkers really gravitate towards. I think this is in part because 12 Year Old World Rye has that higher perceived sweetness and is more fruit forward than many other ryes.
MK: When you’re drinking wine, what are some regions and grapes you like to get into?
MI: I have just started to really get into the world of wine a little more. I recently took a trip out to Napa and really got an appreciation for both the Napa Cab and Zinfandels.
Click here to visit WhistlePig’s website and learn more
Provided by WhistlePig