Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/138003
direct shipping. Most states now allow that in some form or another. Is this still a major priority for WineAmerica? [MC] Direct shipping is still very much a major priority for WineAmerica. We can take our share of the credit for the progress in this arena, but our work is not done. We are working hand in hand with several industry partners to make direct-toconsumer sales legal and effective, and to undo the myriad state regulations that hinder market access and consumer choice. It is a constant battle. [ V&WM ] Are the days numbered for the three-tier system? [ MC ] The three-tier system is not dying by any means. For broadmarket products it is a necessity. In some markets, direct distribution is legal and provides another option. Direct-to-consumer sales actually benefit distributors by relieving them of the responsibility of devel- oping a market for smaller brands that don't have the volume sales to justify being in the distribution chain. And of course, direct shipping benefits consumers who want to buy those smaller brands. In my view the three-tier system and direct-to-consumer sales go hand in hand. [ V&WM ] Who are the main wine consumers in America today? What is the target market for WineAmerica's members? [ MC ] The main consumers in America today come from two major demographic groups – Baby Boomers, who are mostly empty nesters relieved of the expenses of raising and educating their children, so they are relaxing more and enjoying wine more often. The other group is their children, the Millennials, who are embracing wine in a major way, God bless 'em. Those are both prime target markets for our members. Due to many of the factors we have discussed – the growth of wineries in every state, expanded market access and growing consumption – I believe we are truly on our way to establishing a wine culture in America. The United States is now the world's largest wineconsuming nation. The future is bright for American wine. Dave McIntyre has been The Washington Post's weekly wine columnist since October 2008, and has written a wine blog – Dave McIntyre's WineLine – since 1999. He is also the co-creator of Drink Local Wine, an organization that sponsors Regional Wine Week and annual conferences to introduce bloggers to the growth of local wine industries around the country. Comments? Please e-mail us at feedback@vwmmedia.com. YOUR ONLY SOURCE FOR CERAMIC BOTTLES!!! For more than 30 years Phoenix Packaging has designed and introduced new concepts to the wine industry. We work to produce distinctive, unique, and recognizable packaging. BE Creative, BE Bold, BE Different!!!! BUILD YOUR BRAND using what YOU think will be the PERFECT PACKAGE. DON'T be limited by someone's catalogue or stock. WWW.PHOENIXPACKAGING.COM Telephone: 514-487-6660 / 800-661-6481 100 V I N EYARD & WINERY MANAGEMENT | July - Aug 2013 w w w. v w m m e d i a . c o m