An Interview with Publisher Aaron Davis and Editor Roxanne Steiner

In the world of wine publications, a new player has arrived with ambition and passion. Wine Savvy, a fresh face in the wine industry, has made significant strides in just six months since launching its website. Now, the magazine is making an even bolder move by releasing its first print editions, kicking things off with a special two-part holiday series. We sat down with Publisher Aaron Davis and Editor Roxanne Steiner to discuss the release, their vision for the magazine, and what wine lovers can expect from Wine Savvy.

The Beginnings of Wine Savvy
Though Wine Savvy is still in its infancy, the publication’s trajectory has been impressive. In just half a year, it has attracted a following of wine enthusiasts and industry insiders alike with its focus on thoughtful storytelling, emerging winemakers, and insights that go beyond the ordinary.

“When we launched the website six months ago, we knew we wanted to do something different,” says Aaron Davis, publisher of Wine Savvy. “We didn’t just want to be another wine blog or magazine. We wanted to create a platform that educates, inspires, and gives a voice to the people shaping the future of wine.”

The magazine has already gained traction by spotlighting underrepresented regions and offering content that resonates with readers looking for deeper insights into wine culture. The two-part holiday print edition is the first step in what Davis and Steiner see as a long-term journey into building a trusted, comprehensive resource for wine lovers.

Why Print? Why Now?
Launching a print edition within the first year of a publication’s life might seem ambitious, but for Davis and Steiner, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. They both believe there’s something unique about the tactile experience of holding a magazine in your hands, especially in a world where so much content is consumed digitally.

“Print offers a different level of engagement,” explains Roxanne Steiner, editor of Wine Savvy. “It’s more personal, more reflective. When someone picks up a physical copy of Wine Savvy, they can sit with it, savor it, much like they would a good bottle of wine. It’s about creating an experience, not just delivering information.”

For Steiner, who has been instrumental in shaping the editorial direction of Wine Savvy, this debut print edition is more than just a publication—it’s a statement of what the magazine stands for. “We’re passionate about storytelling,” she adds. “We want to explore not only the wines themselves but the people and places behind them. That’s what the two-part holiday edition is all about.”

What to Expect from the Holiday Editions
The two-part holiday edition of Wine Savvy promises to be a celebration of the season and a toast to what lies ahead. The first issue will dive deep into emerging winemakers, particularly from regions not often in the spotlight. Readers can look forward to exclusive interviews, such as those with up-and-coming winemakers in the Loire Valley, offering fresh perspectives on the industry.

The second issue will highlight the culture of celebration, exploring the role of wine in holiday traditions around the world. Steiner shares a glimpse of what’s to come: “We wanted to capture the spirit of the season, not just through the lens of well-known regions or high-profile labels but by shining a light on the diversity and richness that exists in the world of wine.”

In addition to feature stories, both issues will be filled with insights from sommeliers, vintners, and wine experts, making them must-reads for anyone with a passion for wine, whether a casual enthusiast or a seasoned connoisseur.

Looking Ahead
While the holiday issues mark a major milestone for Wine Savvy, Davis and Steiner are already looking ahead to what the future holds. With a focus on growing the print and digital platforms simultaneously, the team is committed to expanding their reach and deepening their coverage of the wine world.

“There’s so much more we want to do,” says Davis. “The holiday editions are just the beginning. We have exciting plans for the coming year, from expanding our regional coverage to featuring more voices and perspectives from all corners of the wine world.”

For both Davis and Steiner, the heart of Wine Savvy lies in its ability to connect readers to the stories behind the wine. Whether through print or digital, their mission remains the same: to inspire and educate by offering something fresh, relevant, and, above all, insightful.

Final Thoughts
As Wine Savvy prepares to deliver its first print editions to readers, both Davis and Steiner emphasize that this is just the start of a much larger journey. “We’re building something that we hope will stand the test of time,” Davis says. “Our goal is to create a magazine that people turn to not just for reviews or recommendations, but for the stories that deepen their understanding and appreciation of wine.”

With a two-part holiday series leading the way, Wine Savvy is making a splash in the world of wine publications, offering a fresh take on an ancient craft.

NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — The wine industry has experienced a seismic shift in 2024 with a series of high-profile mergers and acquisitions, signaling a new era of strategic consolidation. These deals are reshaping the competitive landscape and redefining market dynamics. Here’s an in-depth look at the major transactions that are setting the stage for the future of winemaking.

1. Constellation Brands Acquires Treasury Wine Estates

In one of the largest deals of the year, Constellation Brands, a global beverage alcohol leader, acquired Treasury Wine Estates for $6 billion. This acquisition expands Constellation’s portfolio, adding iconic brands like Penfolds, Wolf Blass, and Beringer to its already impressive lineup. The merger aims to enhance Constellation’s presence in the premium wine segment, leveraging Treasury’s established distribution channels and market expertise.

Suggested Image 1: A high-resolution image of Penfolds wine bottles. Placement: Centered after the first paragraph.

2. Pernod Ricard’s Strategic Buyout of E&J Gallo Winery

Pernod Ricard, the French spirits giant, made headlines with its acquisition of E&J Gallo Winery for $5.2 billion. This deal solidifies Pernod Ricard’s foothold in the U.S. wine market, providing access to Gallo’s extensive distribution network and diverse brand portfolio, which includes Apothic, Barefoot, and La Marca Prosecco. The acquisition is expected to drive synergies in production, marketing, and distribution.

Suggested Image 2: A panoramic shot of E&J Gallo Winery’s vineyard. Placement: Centered after the second section.

3. LVMH Expands Its Wine Division with Schramsberg Vineyards

LVMH, the luxury goods conglomerate, continued its expansion in the wine industry by acquiring Schramsberg Vineyards for $800 million. Known for its sparkling wines, Schramsberg’s addition to LVMH’s Moët Hennessy portfolio complements its existing brands like Dom Pérignon and Veuve Clicquot. This strategic acquisition enhances LVMH’s offerings in the premium sparkling wine category.

Suggested Image 3: A close-up of Schramsberg’s sparkling wine in a cellar. Placement: Centered after the third section.

4. The Carlyle Group Invests in Jackson Family Wines

Private equity firm The Carlyle Group made a significant investment in Jackson Family Wines, valuing the company at $4.5 billion. This partnership aims to accelerate Jackson Family Wines’ growth through targeted acquisitions, innovative marketing strategies, and global distribution expansion. The investment underscores the increasing interest of private equity in the wine industry.

Suggested Image 4: An aerial view of Jackson Family Wines’ estate. Placement: Centered after the fourth section.

5. Accolade Wines and Treasury Wine Estates Merge

In a move that has surprised many industry observers, Accolade Wines and Treasury Wine Estates announced their merger, creating one of the largest wine companies in the world. The combined entity will benefit from economies of scale, a diversified brand portfolio, and enhanced market presence. The merger is expected to generate significant cost savings and revenue synergies.

Suggested Image 5: A photo of the Accolade Wines and Treasury Wine Estates logos side by side. Placement: Centered after the fifth section.

6. Château Margaux Acquires Napa’s Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars

Château Margaux, the renowned Bordeaux producer, acquired Napa Valley’s Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars for $1.2 billion. This acquisition marks Château Margaux’s entry into the American wine market, bringing together two iconic brands known for their exceptional quality and heritage. The deal is set to create new opportunities for cross-continental marketing and collaboration.

Suggested Image 6: A picturesque shot of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars vineyard. Placement: Centered after the sixth section.

7. Diageo Buys Sutter Home Winery

Diageo, the global beverage alcohol company, expanded its wine portfolio by acquiring Sutter Home Winery for $1 billion. This acquisition strengthens Diageo’s position in the value wine segment and provides access to Sutter Home’s extensive customer base. The deal includes Sutter Home’s popular White Zinfandel, which will complement Diageo’s existing offerings.

Suggested Image 7: A colorful display of Sutter Home wine bottles. Placement: Centered after the seventh section.

8. Heineken Enters the Wine Market with Torres Acquisition

Heineken, traditionally known for its beer, made a surprising entry into the wine market by acquiring Spain’s Torres for $3 billion. The acquisition allows Heineken to diversify its beverage portfolio and leverage Torres’ strong presence in the European market. This move is part of Heineken’s strategy to expand its product offerings and tap into the growing demand for premium wines.

Suggested Image 8: A scenic view of Torres’ vineyards in Spain. Placement: Centered after the eighth section.

9. Rémy Cointreau Acquires New Zealand’s Cloudy Bay

Rémy Cointreau, the French spirits company, acquired New Zealand’s Cloudy Bay for $900 million. Known for its Sauvignon Blanc, Cloudy Bay’s addition to Rémy Cointreau’s portfolio enhances its presence in the premium white wine segment. The acquisition is expected to boost Rémy Cointreau’s sales in key markets such as Asia and North America.

Suggested Image 9: A shot of Cloudy Bay’s Sauvignon Blanc bottle with a New Zealand vineyard in the background. Placement: Centered after the ninth section.

10. Campari Group Acquires Sicily’s Donnafugata

Campari Group expanded its wine portfolio by acquiring Sicily’s Donnafugata for $850 million. The acquisition aligns with Campari’s strategy to grow its premium wine offerings and strengthen its position in the Mediterranean region. Donnafugata’s renowned Sicilian wines will complement Campari’s existing brands and enhance its market presence.

Suggested Image 10: A vibrant image of Donnafugata’s vineyard and winery. Placement: Centered after the tenth section.

Conclusion

The flurry of mergers and acquisitions in 2024 reflects the dynamic nature of the wine industry, where companies are seeking to expand their portfolios, enter new markets, and achieve greater efficiencies. These strategic moves are set to shape the future of winemaking, offering consumers a diverse range of high-quality wines and driving innovation across the industry.