Tasting Flight 4/28/06
Career Changes
Winemakers and wine writers all seem to live exotic lives. The perks certainly are enjoyable, but Paul Gregutt at the Seattle Times set the record straight on working in the wine industry. At the end of the day, you may rethink that nagging desire to quick Goldman Sachs and head to California to start your own cult winery. Then again, given the demands of the miserable investment banker, you may not even have time to read the article. (Seattle Times)
In Memory
Wine guru and writer Alexis Bespaloff passed away this week at age 71. He was an admired leader in the wine world. His presence will be missed, but his legacy will be remembered.
Another Study Proves It
America is besting France, and we are taking about wine consumption. The current studies predict that America will overtake the world as the top consumers of wine within three years. And, given the consumption trends of Americans, the French are facing a tough road unless they re-envision their branding and marketing schemes. French exports have fallen 11% from 2002 to 2005. What will the Militant Winemakers protests look like a few years from now? (Decanter)