WineBusiness Monthly

The US wine industry is facing change, but winemakers have a unique opportunity to make a big impact. By learning basic finance, tracking costs, improving operations and sharing authentic brand stories, they can become key contributors. CFOs and managers should educate, empower, and include production teams, fostering collaboration. Ultimately, winemakers can claim a meaningful “seat at the financial table” and help their wineries navigate challenging times. Read the full article by Alison Crowe: https://zurl.co/X7Xdc

Samra Morris is our WINEMAKER OF THE MONTH 🍇 Morris, winemaker at Alma Rosa Winery, crafts vibrant, terroir-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rhone varietals. Originally from Bosnia, Samra discovered her passion for fermentation during a brewing internship, later refining her skills in Napa Valley before joining Alma Rosa in 2019. She embraces innovation, sustainability, and precision viticulture to elevate the winery’s legacy. As the first Bosnian winemaker in the U.S., Samra overcomes challenges with determination, creating layered, balanced wines that reflect the unique cool-climate influence of Sta. Rita Hills. Ready the full article: https://zurl.co/VQLsG

Wine sales in restaurants and bars face challenges as consumers choose more affordable drinks, but wine on tap offers a promising solution. It reduces waste, allows smaller pours, and appeals to younger customers with its affordability and sustainability. Producers report steady growth, and customers are increasingly curious and enthusiastic. Concepts like Sixty Vines show kegged wine can attract guests and boost profits, making it an exciting opportunity to revitalize on-premise wine sales. Read the full article by Sarah Brown: https://zurl.co/8dxHZ

At The Donum Estate, regenerative organic farming meets cutting-edge ag tech. Senior Director of Winegrowing Tony Chapman is using Agrology’s real-time sensors to study how till vs. no-till practices impact soil respiration, microbial activity, and ultimately grape quality. By continuously tracking the vineyard’s “biological engine”, from carbon flux to canopy stress, Donum is uncovering how living soils create healthier vines, more resilient vineyards, and wines that truly reflect their terroir. Read more in the November issue of WineBusiness Monthly: https://zurl.co/HmuPx

Each year, WineBusiness Monthly celebrates the innovators, visionaries, and changemakers shaping the future of wine. The 2025 leaders inspire hope and resilience, proving that even in challenging times, passion and creativity continue to move the industry forward. Congratulations to all those recognized for their impact across every facet of the business—from vineyard to glass. Read the full story by Erin Kirschenmann: https://zurl.co/E9SEs

The wine industry is taking a more deliberate approach to hiring, focusing on quality and long-term fit. While recruitment timelines have extended from 90 to 120 days and some positions are paused, companies are thoughtfully evaluating talent and opportunities. Professionals are exploring new roles within and adjacent to wine, and applications remain strong. AI is helping streamline administrative tasks, allowing teams to focus on strategic priorities. Many wineries view the current slowdown as a valuable chance to restructure, strengthen their organizations, and position themselves for sustainable growth in the years ahead. Read the full article by Katherine Martine: https://zurl.co/sqmPx

The 2025 wine industry salary survey highlights strong growth in production and direct-to-consumer (DTC) roles. Production pay rose 5% and DTC salaries increased 6%, with special events coordinators (+10%) and Winemaker 2 roles (+7%) seeing notable gains. Overall salaries climbed 4.1%, an improvement over last year. DTC bonuses are growing as wineries invest in tasting rooms and wine clubs, rewarding key contributions. While wine remains a passion-driven industry, competitive pay, performance incentives, and automation are helping wineries attract and retain top talent, creating exciting opportunities across the sector. Read the full article by Andrew Adams: https://zurl.co/mklcU

Premium box wines continue to grow, helping steady the off-premise wine market despite shifting consumer habits. Higher-priced categories show resilience, and overall demand remains strong at more than $1.2 billion in July alone. Key regions like California and Oregon still lead significant sales, highlighting ongoing consumer interest in quality wines. Read the full report: https://zurl.co/tga21

Registration is officially open for WiVi Central Coast 2026 🍷 📅 March 12 | Paso Robles Event Center A full day of practical ideas for winemakers, growers, and wine industry professionals. We’re covering everything from new tech in the vineyard to what’s actually working in DTC and retail right now. And don’t miss Bottle Bash Central Coast on March 11 after Central Coast Insights! Connect, catch up, and kick things off with a glass in hand. Secure your spot: https://zurl.co/omIZg