Allegedly, an increasing number of large American wineries are purchasing international bulk wines to blend into their bottles in order to bolster their bottom line. For the purists, this undoubtedly ruffles a few feathers, but does the average consumer really care as long as the wine itself still tastes good?
If we pose the same question for another luxury market like high fashion, the answer is “probably not.” If one were to buy a sweater from J.Crew, and they discover that it’s made from Italian fabric assembled in China, they probably won’t feel cheated. But a $3,000 Armani suit not made in Italy? Well, Giorgio better brace for some backlash. The same goes for high-end wine. After the price tag rises above $70 or so, that Napa Cab ought to be from Napa.
On this episode of the “VinePair Podcast,” Adam, Joanna, and Zach use a listener question as a jumping-off point to discuss whether most wine drinkers really care where a wine is from: Below a certain price point, do regular wine drinkers care about appellations and vintages, or is it mostly about flavor profile and price point? Tune in for more.
Zach is drinking: 2009 Betz Syrah “La Cote Rousse”
Joanna is drinking: Dirty Gertie at Gertrude’s
Adam is drinking: Paloma with Tequila Ocho Blanco
