WineBusiness Monthly

California is considering several new laws that could affect workers and businesses in 2025. These include changes to overtime rules for farm workers, easier ways to file workers' comp claims for heat illnesses and a requirement for big companies to tell employees if they're being monitored electronically. There are also new rules to prevent heat-related illnesses at work, including training for certain workers. A law to prevent workplace violence will take effect in 2024, and the minimum wage will increase to $16.50 per hour in January 2025. Employers should stay updated and get ready for these changes. Read the full article by Katherine Martine: https://zurl.co/ukzp

Secondary packaging, like wine boxes and shipping cartons, might seem like a minor detail, but it’s actually a big deal for brand recognition. While the bottle and label get most of the attention, these boxes are like little billboards that can tell a brand’s story and stand out even during shipping. Wineries like Ridge and PlumpJack use eco-friendly, custom packaging to show off their green credentials and luxury feel. Plus, clever packaging can boost sales, especially with gift sets or seasonal designs. It’s a smart investment that makes your brand memorable, even when it’s just being transported. Read the full article by Michael S. Lasky: https://zurl.co/edQY

Bag-in-box wines are getting a big boost from fine wine producers as demand for high-quality boxed options grows. Brands like Really Good Boxed Wine and Juliet are tapping into this trend, offering premium wines at a lower cost and with added convenience. Better packaging and easier access to bag-filling facilities are helping smaller producers join the market. With sustainability, savings, and quality at the forefront, boxed wine is becoming a popular choice for those seeking great wine without the hassle of glass bottles. Read the full article by Pam Strayer: https://zurl.co/G0AF

The Virginia Vineyards Association (VVA) and USDA are teaming up to develop grape varieties that can handle climate change challenges like heat, frost, and disease. Using modern breeding techniques, they’re speeding up the process of creating vines with traits like disease resistance and adaptability to Virginia's climate. The project focuses on growing grapes that produce high-quality wine, are more cost-effective, and reflect the region’s unique terroir. The goal of improving disease resistance and using tools like robotic scanners to monitor vines is to help local growers and set an example for other regions facing similar challenges. Read the full article by Richard Carey: https://zurl.co/a9Hb

Healthy soil is key to building a thriving vineyard, improving both vine health and grape quality while saving on costs. Vineyards can boost productivity and resist climate challenges by using practices like cover cropping and reducing soil disturbance. Regenerative agriculture is gaining traction as a smart, sustainable approach. Ready to make your vineyard more profitable and eco-friendly? Start prioritizing soil health today and reap the benefits in the long run. For more insights, read the full article by Bryan Avila: https://zurl.co/BjgX

Climate change is reshaping grape ripening and red wine aromas, with rising temperatures accelerating maturity and leading to overripe flavors. Traditionally rare in Bordeaux wines, aromas like stewed plums, dried figs, and prunes are now increasingly common, particularly in Merlot, due to heat stress and berry shriveling. These aromas, linked to compounds like γ-nonalactone and furaneol, result from metabolic shifts in grapes exposed to excessive heat, sunlight, or drought. Adaptation is crucial for preserving wine quality, including optimizing ripeness levels, refining vineyard management, and selecting climate-resilient grape varieties. As climate conditions evolve, the focus shifts from achieving ripeness to controlling it to maintain terroir-driven wine characteristics. Read the full article by Alexandre Pons: https://zurl.co/qPsk

The 2025 Eastern Winery Expo + Conference returns to Lancaster! Registration for the event is now open: https://lnkd.in/ekAS_Zc9

The 2024 WineBusiness Monthly Winery Equipment Survey shows wineries are cutting back on equipment spending due to economic pressures like high interest rates and weaker demand. Nearly half (48%) plan to spend less, with tanks and bottling equipment being top priorities for those upgrading. Small wineries are the most cautious, while larger ones continue to invest. Despite tight budgets, 33% of wineries plan to boost production, especially by buying more grapes and bulk wine. Case studies highlight strategic upgrades improving efficiency and quality, like Dresser Winery’s new press and temperature controls, or Philip Togni’s reliance on durable, well-maintained tools. Read the full report by Andrew Adams: https://zurl.co/OLsC

Registration is now open for Central Coast Insights 2025—secure your spot at the must-attend gathering for wine industry professionals! Register early & save: https://lnkd.in/e8VFc32q

Registration is now open for WiVi Central Coast 2025—don’t miss the premier wine industry gathering in Paso Robles! Register early and save: https://lnkd.in/de4Zv8Uz