Washington State is like a mini-California and a maxi-New York. It is by far the second largest grape and wine producing state, though its 836 wineries are only about a fifth of California’s 4,795—but nearly twice New York’s 470. And the growth has been explosive: When I came to the industry 41 years ago, New … Read more
Chag Sameach! L’chayim! Last night’s onset of Hanukkah reminds us that it’s the season for all types of celebrations across countries and cultures, and wine is part of that. If music is the universal language, wine is the global toast. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to clink glasses, and while “Cheers” always sounds good, many … Read more
The Commonwealth of Virginia is full of history—American and wine—where in 1619 the House of Burgesses created “Acte 12” requiring colonists to plant vineyards. What a civilized law! Virginia is also home to our nation’s oldest grape, Norton, which is still grown and transformed into big blockbuster reds. Then there was Thomas Jefferson, whose love … Read more
This is going to be an unusual December, and a nice one for Michael Kaiser, our Executive Vice President and Director of Government Affairs. In most years, Congress delays the budget process until the very end of the month, meaning that lobbyists like Michael have to stay in touch and do what they can amidst … Read more
A year ago I had the pleasure of speaking at VitiNord, a great conference focused on cold climate grapes held in Burlington, Vermont. “Cold is Cool, and Small is Big” was my theme, touting the great wines that can come from cold-hardy Minnesota varieties as well as the combined economic impact of the many states … Read more