What We're Reading (11/18/24)

Nov 22, 2024
  1. The 30 Best Wines for Thanksgiving (2024) This article offers a curated list of 30 versatile wines perfect for Thanksgiving, emphasizing selections with bright acidity and moderate alcohol that complement the holiday table. Included is Outward Wines (of course) Presqu’ile Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2022 standing out for its balanced tropical notes, lemon oil, and round texture, making it an ideal pairing for salads and vegetable sides.
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  2. Shoppers Are Ditching Classic Brands They Once Loved Inflation and shifting consumer habits are driving shoppers away from mid-priced staples like Kraft Mac & Cheese, Luvs diapers, and Band-Aids, favoring either premium offerings with better quality and innovative features or lower-cost private-label alternatives. Brands are scrambling to adapt, launching upscale products or revamping value lines to stay competitive in a polarized market.
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  3. International Beaujolais Nouveau Day Beaujolais Nouveau Day, celebrated on the third Thursday of November, marks the annual release of this fresh, fruity Gamay-based wine just weeks after harvest, making it a festive favorite for Thanksgiving and harvest meals. Once criticized for its quality, Beaujolais Nouveau is seeing a resurgence in popularity as producers improve standards and embrace the wine’s youthful, food-friendly appeal.
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  4. Is the Sober-Curious Movement Just a Midlife Crisis? This VinePair Podcast episode sheds light on the sober-curious movement, suggesting it may be an amplified public reflection of midlife or quarter-life self-awareness, fueled by social media. The trend could fade as people adjust to life after their youth, when they could drink and eat without repercussions.
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  5. How Chablis Found U.S. Growth in a Down Market Despite global wine sales facing declines, Chablis has surged in the U.S. market, becoming its top export destination by value in 2023. This growth is attributed to its unique characteristics, affordability compared to other Burgundy wines, and evolving consumer preferences. Shifting trends favor fresher, lighter styles of Chardonnay—qualities inherent to Chablis, which also offers food versatility and an appealing value proposition. Climate change and advancements in vineyard practices have further enhanced quality, making Chablis a standout choice for both casual drinkers and collectors. This momentum suggests its popularity is set to climb even higher.
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