As the United States grappled with the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a surge in demand for alcohol. However, the market soon found itself facing a shortage of supply. This led to many domestic alcohol brands increasing their production significantly in an attempt to meet the growing demand.
However, as the market continues to adjust, producers are struggling with an oversupply of stock that they cannot sell due to fierce competition. This is especially true in the wine industry, where winemakers often view their craft as more of an art than a business. Despite this struggle, winemaking remains an art form that must also be commercially viable to sustain a business.
Recently, on an episode of the “VinePair Podcast,” Adam, Joanna, and Zach discussed a San Francisco Chronicle article highlighting the challenges faced by California winemakers. The trio argued that these difficulties were not caused by a permanent shift in Americans’ attitudes towards wine but rather were a result of the pandemic’s impact. They suggested that small winemakers should be more transparent about their business plans to better prepare for tough times ahead.
In addition to discussing wine production challenges, Joanna was reading an article about the hidden hazards of hospitality when a bar is too big. Meanwhile, Zach was exploring how low-sulfite wines from Burgundy could reshape tradition. Finally, Adam was delving into why drink makers seek royal warrants and discussing potential nervousness surrounding this practice at present.
Listen to the full discussion on the VinePair Podcast available on various platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
The high demand for alcohol in the months leading up to Covid-19 was fueled by various factors such as social gatherings and holidays such as St Patrick’s Day and Cinco de Mayo. Unfortunately, not enough supply could meet this demand causing prices to skyrocket.
When Covid-19 hit, many domestic alcohol brands responded by increasing their production significantly in an attempt to meet growing demand.
However, as time passed and consumer behavior shifted due to lockdowns and economic uncertainty, many producers found themselves with more stock than they could sell due to fierce competition.
This struggle is not unique to the wine industry but can also be seen in other industries such as fashion and restaurants.
On recent podcast episode Adam discussed how some small winemakers are struggling financially due to oversupply of stock and fierce competition.
Joanna read an article discussing how large bars can pose hidden hazards such as overcrowding and poor ventilation which can increase risk of spreading Covid-19.