Dominique Conn-Giolito

We chat with Samuel Filler, Executive Director of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation on NYWGF's key achievements, programs, and future goals of the foundation. Sam Filler, as the Executive Director of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation (NYWGF), has spearheaded various initiatives to elevate the state's wines and grapes. From promoting sustainability to expanding global markets, Sam's leadership has been instrumental in advancing New York's wine industry. In this interview, Sam shares growth and success with our editor Malvika Patel of USA Ratings and Beverage Trade Network. "I am most proud of our export program, which is funded through a grant from the USDA Foreign Agriculture Service. They have underwritten an export program for New York Wines for over 30 years." - Sam Filler. Here are some questions we ask: Sam, as Executive Director of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, you've overseen various initiatives to promote the state's wines and grapes. Can you share some of the key achievements and programs you're most proud of during this time? Sustainability is a key focus in the grape and wine industry. How has the New York Wine & Grape Foundation supported sustainability efforts under your leadership, and what do you see as the future of sustainability in the industry? The wine industry has seen significant changes over the past few years with DTC and e-commerce gaining importance. How has the New York Wine & Grape Foundation adapted its strategies and programs to support wineries and growers in navigating these changes? Could you share some insights into the key initiatives the New York Wine and Grape Foundation is currently focusing on, and how these initiatives contribute to the overall goals of the foundation? Millennials are emerging as a significant audience for wine consumption. How is the New York Wine & Grape Foundation adapting i How do you think the trend of moderation among Gen Z drinkers in the US, particularly their embrace of no- and low-alcohol beverages? Read the full story on USA Ratings wine website by clicking on below link.

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In this article, we share with you the top Vodkas that offer excellent quality for the price and have a great package that judges picked at the USA Spirits Ratings. USA Ratings

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With the end of 2024 in sight, you start to see many “Best of 2024” lists posted across industries and publications. For the #spirits industry, one constant is the performance and renown of Virginia Distillery Co. #AmericanSingleMalt offerings. Whether our Hardywood Park Craft Brewery Gingerbread Stout finished #singlemalt that landed on Whisky Advocate‘s Top 20 whiskies of 2024; our VDC Cabernet Cask which was the highest rated whiskey at this year’s #IWSC AND won American Single Malt of the Year from US Spirits Ratings; or our VDC Port Cask ASM featured in Wine Enthusiast‘s “Top 100 Spirits of 2024” article below, there is a reason why Virginia Distillery Company countinues to be the Most Awarded American Single Malt Distillery. With the recent American Single Malt Whisky category ratification by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, there’s no better time than now to discover the future of American whiskey - American Single Malt. And there’s no better place to start than the Birthplace of American Whisky - Virginia. Whether your year has been worth celebrating or full of challenges, may your glass be half full and your future be merry and bright! 🥃 #whiskey #whisky #distillery #yearend #holidays #CourageAndConviction American Single Malt Whiskey Commission Spirits United

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Agave spirits tendencies in 2025 With the year coming to an end there are some thoughts on the next year agave spirits tendencies: Premiumization: The “Less but Better” Movement Premiumization has been a growing trend in recent years, and in 2025, it will continue to dominate the agave spirits sector. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for high-quality products, with a particular focus on craftsmanship, flavor complexity, and brand story. Especially this is true if new US administration introduces additional tax on Mexican goods of 25%. This focus on “less but better” consumption aligns with broader shifts in consumer behavior across beverages. Consumers are drinking less frequently, but when they do, they want their drink to be an experience. Tequila’s reputation has transformed from a party drink to a premium sipping beverage, and this shift has driven higher sales of bottles priced over $30. Tequila and Agave Spirits Continue to Surge Tequila’s meteoric rise is far from over. Agave-based spirits have seen incredible growth over the past decade, with tequila becoming a category favorite in the premium and ultra-premium spaces. This trend is set to continue in 2025, fueled by a changing consumer perception that agave spirits offer diverse flavor profiles and artisanal craftsmanship. New consumers are becoming more adventurous and experimenting with lesser-known agave-based spirits like mezcal, raicilla, and sotol. The artisanal production methods, smokier flavor profiles, and links to sustainability are particularly attractive to younger consumers seeking authentic, unique experiences. #agavespririts2025 #premiumizationoftequila #newagavespiritsprofiles

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The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America's SipSource data tracker forecasts that consumers will continue to shift to spirits brands in the "affordable luxury" segment—mainly in the $18-$25 and $25-$50 price bands—amid challenging conditions for the industry. #AffordableLuxury #SpiritsTrends Overall, SipSource projects a decline for spirits in the U.S. through the rest of this year and at least the first half of 2025, with the group projecting depletions to decline 5.65% by the end of the year and by 5.59% for the first half of 2025. #MarketInsights #IndustryForecastAt the individual category level, SipSource is projecting declines in vodka to broadly remain in line with the overall industry but says American whiskey could be in for a sharper drop, potentially 6.82% by Q2 2025. #VodkaTrends #WhiskeyMarket SipSource attributes the overall decline to a variety of factors, including the rise of lower-priced RTDs, the U.S.'s growing cannabis market, and post-pandemic consumption normalization. #RTDCocktails #CannabisImpact #PostPandemicConsumptionThe projections are based on models leveraging depletions from 19 WSWA member wholesalers, more than 10 macroeconomic indicators, and other data. #WSWAInsights #SipSource #IndustryAnalysis —Shane English #AlcoholIndustry #BeverageIndustry #MarketProjections

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to have a chance to potentially be successful in the US, here is a non exhaustive list what an artisanal spirits brand should have/do: 1- a very good to great quality product, on nose and palate 2- a product with a soul/personality. just "good" wont cut it. 3- a genuine story about how the brand/product came about 4- the understanding that the US is its own beast which likely require adaptations (from the line-up to be sold to the marketing etc...) from what made the products successful in other countries 5- the understanding that nobody has been waiting for this product; it needs to prove itself 6- patience, a lot of it. how much? unsure, but count in years, by increment of 5 7- the right network of partners, from importer to wholesalers to on & off prem key partners, evangelists and fans 8- be humble 9- tirelessly work towards making genuine relationships

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Top 3 winners will have the exclusive chance to deliver 15-minute video pitches to six influential retail buyers in New Jersey. As the wine world eagerly anticipates the 2025 USA Wine Ratings, we’re thrilled to unveil an exceptional new benefit for this year’s top three winners. These elite wines will receive direct pitches to the buying managers of some of New Jersey’s most renowned bottle shops. This is more than just recognition—it’s a solid commercial opportunity that can propel your brand to new heights. This marks the first initiative of its kind, providing a direct commercial benefit. We plan to expand this impactful program to additional states, creating even greater opportunities for brands to grow their market presence By securing a top-three position, your wine will gain access to: - Home Wines and Liquors - Joe Canals - Riverside Wines and Liquors - Bridgeview Liquors - The Wine Guys - Veronna Wine Cellar How It Works: Exclusive Presentation Opportunity for Top 3 Winners To These 6 Retail Buying Managers In New Jersey Here’s an exciting chance to showcase your brand directly to decision-makers from five prominent stores. This is how the process will unfold: 1. Zoom Call with Buying Managers: A virtual Zoom call will be arranged, bringing together the buying managers from these five key stores. 2. Top 3 Winners Selected: Only the top 3 winners will earn the privilege to present during this exclusive session. 3. 15-Minute Presentations: Each of the top 3 winners will be given 15 minutes to present their product or brand. 4. Interactive Q&A: Use this time to not only showcase your brand but also answer questions and discuss how your product aligns with the stores' customer needs and preferences. "This is a solid commercial benefit for the winners—a rare opportunity to present directly to some of the most powerful retailers in New Jersey. If these buying managers decide to stock your product, it could significantly boost your brand’s presence and sales in the New Jersey market." "Our goal here is to highlight the winning products based on their quality, value, and packaging—criteria that resonate with both consumers and retailers. The retailers will appreciate that these are the top 3 winners, chosen for their excellence, making them strong candidates for shelf placement and customer appeal." – Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network and USA Ratings

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Good overview from the ACSA perspective--pointing out some top-of-thought issues like the fervent campaign to prevent small-business distilleries from connecting with consumers, the general headwinds faced by small- and mid-sized distilleries (as with many industries), and the need for legislative changes that provide distilleries in restrictive states the same opportunities as those in more supportive states. A couple quick notes: ➡ Prevention of DTC enactment has dragged on because one set of business owners are ready and willing to adapt to a changing marketplace, and another set of businesses is not. It is not any more complicated than that. The results of foot-dragging are far more complex, but know that *not a single consequence* is of benefit to the industry and its consumers. ➡ Distilleries are not alone in facing economic headwinds, but the industry is young enough that its players--as a whole--have limited to no experience with building strategy for an inhospitable market. There is little experience in opportunity determination and creation beyond "We make good spirits." Survival through the coming two to five years will be based on developing unified and fact-based strategies that drive tactics and execution. (Note: the most detrimental pattern I see is management's presumption that tactics are strategy, alas!) ➡ Hell, yeah, legislative changes need to be made in many states. But after now watching changes happen in three states, I'll be honest: The distilleries that complain make zero progress, but the distilleries that show legislators how to succeed get the job done. If you want legislative changes, step up. Research what has worked elsewhere, write the proposed legislation, show the benefit to the state, and make it easy for lawmakers to execute. Change isn't driven by complaint. It is achieved by action, investment, and collective understanding. Survival doesn't happen through hard work. It is achieved by focused assessment, planning, and targeted execution.

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Key Figures and Companies in the U.S. Bulk Wine Market: The bulk wine industry plays a crucial role in the American wine market. Bulk wine, shipped in large containers and bottled at its destination, is a cost-effective and sustainable solution that caters to a wide range of consumer needs. From private-label wines at major retailers to high-quality table wines, bulk wine serves diverse market demands. Let’s talk about the important companies and key figures driving the bulk wine industry in the USA, providing insights into their contributions and the overall significance of bulk wine in the market. International Bulk Wine & Spirits Show

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The Mezcal sector has been growing at an annual growth rate of 10% compared to tequila’s 7% increase. According to The Spirits Business, “In 2022 Tequila accounted for 96% of total agave spirits volume. Mezcal was responsible for a mere 3%, but it’s making headway – growing by 23% in volume between 2021 and 2022.” Sasma is pleased to offer several different types of agave-based spirits including 100% Smoked Agave Spirit, a mezcal alternative. Learn more about our agave-based offerings on our website, or inquire at [email protected]. To read more head over to ➡️ https://bit.ly/4c2Yeag #Mezcal #AgaveSpirits #SpiritsIndustry

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Below is one of the many bits of knowledge Todd Leopold (OG US craft distiller - Leopold Brothers -, one of the most knowledgeable people I got to meet) dropped on American whisky and the history of barrel entry proof this week: Until 1962, the standard entry proof for American whiskey was 50%. Entry proof significantly impacts the whiskey's final character & quality. The historical context provided by studies like the Crampton and Tolman survey illustrates the meticulous approach to understanding whiskey production. This study, surveying 31 distilleries, analyzed variables like mash bill, warehouse conditions, and aging samples over eight years. It established that the standard entry proof was around 100 proof, with minor variations. Subsequent studies during Prohibition confirmed these findings, underscoring consistency in production practices despite economic pressures. It showed that the proof of whiskey in Kentucky warehouses typically increased from 100 to about 107 proof over eight years. This rise in proof requires minimal dilution with water to achieve bottling strength of 50% (think BIB), preserving the complex flavors and aromas developed during aging while not impacting the color too negatively. In contrast, starting with a higher entry proof, such as 62.5%, results in a more concentrated spirit that can climb into the high 60s or even 70s abv. Diluting this high-proof whiskey to bottling strength necessitates significant water which could be problematic from a color standpoint (not dark "enough"). A lower entry proof also affects the extraction of wood compounds from the barrel. Whiskey aged at higher proofs tends to pull out more aggressive tannins and wood flavors, which can overpower subtler notes and lead to a harsher taste. Conversely, whiskey aged at the traditional 50% entry proof extracts fewer of these intense compounds, resulting in potentially a rounder, more balanced spirit. In the early 1960s, lobbying efforts increased the maximum legal entry proof from 55% to 62.5%: before this change, few distillers used the 55% maximum, adhering to lower proofs instead. These regulatory shifts were largely economic. Higher entry proofs allowed distilleries to produce more whiskey with fewer barrels, reducing storage and production costs. This change was driven by financial imperatives during a time when many distilleries struggled to stay operational, not by quality considerations. Esterification, the chemical reaction forming esters that contribute to fruity and floral notes in whiskey, is another critical factor in aging. Lower alcohol content during aging facilitates greater oxygen absorption, enhancing esterification reactions. Experimental data, though not extensive, suggests that whiskey aged at lower entry proofs (like 50%) tends to develop higher ester levels compared to those aged at higher proofs. This balance between organic acids and esters is crucial during the initial four years of aging, signifying maturity.

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In this article, we share with you the top Sauvignon blanc Wines that offer excellent quality for the price and have a great package that judges picked at the USA Wine Ratings. USA Ratings

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There are many theories that seek to explain the slowdown in the wine market. Mine is based on well-founded research, but I don't think many wine professionals or enthusiasts will find it very palatable. https://lnkd.in/eq58GNaN

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Ready to tap into one of the most unique and rewarding investment opportunities available? Welcome to Bourbon Barrel Investing 🥃 As demand for aged bourbon continues to grow, investing in barrels presents a rare chance to combine passion with profit. At LQD Assets, we offer a comprehensive program that allows investors to purchase and age barrels of premium bourbon, providing significant returns as the whiskey matures. The longer it ages, the higher its value, and our expertise in sourcing, aging, and bottling ensures you’re maximizing your investment potential. Similarly to traditional stocks or real estate, bourbon barrels appreciate with time, and with LQD Assets, you’re investing in a product that’s always in demand. Our program partners with leading distilleries to provide you with full transparency and guidance throughout the process. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, bourbon barrel investing offers a stable, tangible asset with strong market growth potential. Visit lqdassets.co/investors to learn more about how you can make a smart investment. #BourbonInvesting #WhiskeyInvestment #LQDBourbon #SmartInvestments #Investing

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The impact of tariffs goes beyond mere numbers, affecting small businesses, restaurants, and consumers directly. President Ben Aneff from the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance recently discussed in the Dallas Observer how proposed tariffs on imports could have a significant impact on the hospitality sector: 👉 Restaurants heavily rely on profit margins, and tariffs could jeopardize their sustainability. 👉 These tariffs disrupt the three-tier system, affecting U.S.-based importers, distributors, and retailers, many of which are small enterprises. With inflation already squeezing profits, the additional burden of tariffs could escalate costs, posing challenges for both consumers and businesses. To delve deeper into this issue, check out the full article. #WineTrade #Tariffs #SmallBusiness #DallasObserver #USWTA #HospitalityIndustry Colangelo & Partners Gino Colangelo Collin T. Smith Maria R. Harmon Skurnik

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