Podcast Episode 2: Consumer Trends with Rebecca Hopkins & Glass with a Grower, Matt Stornetta

​In this episode, wine industry expert Rebecca Hopkins, rebeccahopkinswine.com,  delves into the latest trends in wine sales and consumer drinking habits, shedding light on the intricacies of the three-tier system and its inherent challenges. She underscores the significance of community, maintaining business focus, forging strong customer connections, and staying informed with trustworthy news to help growers navigate the evolving market.
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In "Glass with a Grower," Matt Stornetta shares his journey in farming and the development of his company, Stornetta Made Farming. He shares a bottle of Trinitas Sauvignon Blanc as he provides insights on vineyard management practices and his experiences with the structure of vineyard leases and the associated risks.

Episode Highlights

"Wine is maybe not necessarily the number one choice anymore. There's a demand for lower alcohol, fresher styles, and we're seeing growth in white wines like Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc." – Rebecca Hopkins

"We have this fulcrum of younger consumers interested in health, transparency, and authenticity, and they demand to know where their food, clothes, and wine come from." – Rebecca Hopkins

"Leaning on community is crucial – knowing you're not alone and having a network you can rely on can make the challenges of this industry a bit easier." – Rebecca Hopkins

"The market now really values vineyard stories. If you're a grower, bring buyers to your vineyard, show them why it’s special, and connect them to the story of your grapes." – Caleb Mosley

​"Starting a farming business in 2020 was daunting, but crop insurance and efficient practices have been key. Taking on deferred vineyards required viticultural and financial creativity, but it’s been rewarding." – Matt Stornetta

Additional Resources

BMO Wine Market Report
Wine Business Monthly Daily News
Wine Industry Network
Podcast – The FourTop with Martin Reyes MW and Katherine Cole  
Wine Market Council
WBM: How Neo-Prohibitionists Came to Shape Alcohol Policy