Martine Saunier Remembering Martine Saunier (1934-2025): Her Life Through Her Own Words Chris Lehoux, March 1, 2025 On February 9, 2025, the wine world mourned the passing of Martine Saunier, an iconic figure and the first American female wine importer in modern times. Known simply as "Martine," she made a profound impact over her 50-year career, importing some of the greatest wines from regions like Burgundy and… Continue Reading
Wine Remembering Peter Sichel: Acclaimed Vintner, Spy, and Celebrated Wine Spectator Award Recipient, Passes Away at 102 Chris Lehoux, March 1, 2025 Peter M.F. Sichel, a notable figure in the wine industry and a former spy, passed away on February 24 at the age of 104. His unique life story intertwined his experiences in espionage and winemaking, starting from his escape from Nazi Germany to becoming the driving force behind the popular… Continue Reading
Wine The Heart-Healthy Benefits of Red Wine: Why Moderation Matters Chris Lehoux, February 28, 2025 A recent study has suggested that moderate consumption of red wine may offer heart health benefits. Conducted by researchers in Spain, the study involved over 1,200 participants with an average age of 68, including 685 individuals who had previously experienced a cardiovascular event. The researchers determined wine consumption levels through… Continue Reading
Wine Reflecting on Legacy: Black-Owned Wine and Jazz Bar Closes After 4 Years, Celebrating Diversity Chris Lehoux, February 28, 2025 In downtown Grand Rapids, the GRNoir Wine & Jazz Bar is preparing to close its doors after four impactful years, with its final day of operation set for February 28. Owners Shatawn and Nadia Brigham have reflected on their legacy, which emphasized a vibrant community atmosphere where people from diverse… Continue Reading
Wine Excitement Soars at Napa’s Annual Barrel Auction as Bidders Embrace the Latest Vintage Chris Lehoux, February 28, 2025 When the final gavel struck at the 29th Premiere Napa Valley Auction, the atmosphere was filled with celebratory optimism about the future of Napa Valley wines. This year’s auction, which took place on February 22 in the Barrel Room of the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena,… Continue Reading
Wine Unveiling Elegance: The Multi-Million Dollar Winery by Wine Icons Producing Exquisite Spanish Red Wine Chris Lehoux, February 27, 2025 Driving through the serene Rioja wine region of north-central Spain is an experience characterized by picturesque bodegas and ancient bush vines, all set against the striking backdrop of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains. It was during this journey that visitors encountered the majestic Macán Winery, a recent creation by two… Continue Reading
Wine Discover Arizona’s Finest: The Best Wine Shops in Phoenix for Local Selections Chris Lehoux, February 26, 2025 March marks Arizona Wine Month, a celebration of the rapidly growing wine industry in the state that has gained significant recognition both nationally and internationally. Since 2012, the state’s wine output has tripled, prompting former Governor Doug Ducey to officially dedicate March as Arizona Wine Month in 2022. Continuing the… Continue Reading
Happenings This Week in Wine: Highlights and Insights for February 23, 2025 Chris Lehoux, February 25, 2025 Hello and welcome to my weekly roundup of intriguing wine stories from around the web. For those who prefer a brief overview without the Flipboard format, here’s what stood out this week. Forestry Threat to Chilean Wine: Concerns arise over the impact of pine and its implications for vineyards in… Continue Reading
Wine Sip and Celebrate: Exciting Wine Festivals and Events in Napa and Sonoma This Spring 2025 Chris Lehoux, February 24, 2025 Spring brings an exciting array of winery and beer festivals to the Bay Area. Here is a selection of notable events to enjoy. Upcoming Events: Wine Blending Classes Date: March 8, 4:30 – 6:30 PM Location: Arroyo Cellars, Livermore Details: Engage in wine tasting with the winemaker and create your… Continue Reading
Wine Navigating Wine Business Challenges: Insights on ‘Two Buck Chuck’ Owner’s Recent Strategic Moves Chris Lehoux, February 24, 2025 Bronco Wine Co., known for producing the popular Two Buck Chuck wine sold at Trader Joe’s, has announced significant operational changes, citing a "significant downturn" in the market. The company will be closing its production facility in Central California, originally established for the Two Buck Chuck brand, and laying off… Continue Reading