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Explore insights that move the beverage industry forward. From market entry strategies and distribution tactics to consumer trends and zero-proof innovation, our articles equip founders, marketers, and operators with the knowledge to scale smarter. Curated by Beverage Business Academy’s experts, each post delivers practical guidance for today’s evolving beverage landscape.
Recent Articles
October 8, 2025
Sustainable & Regenerative Bourbon: Jeff Kretschmar Journey into the Green Spirit Movement
October 8, 2025
The Rise of Ultra-Premium and Rare Bourbons, By Jeff Kretschmar
those who can balance craftsmanship with credibility will own the next chapter.
October 8, 2025
Dives into the Digital Vineyard: AI, Sensors & the Smart Wine Revolution, by Jeff Kretschmar
Wine and silicon may seem odd partners, but in 2025 they’re dancing together. The vineyards of tomorrow will be part biology, part data lab. And for you and me? We’ll drink smarter as much as deeper. If you want help crafting a “tech wine” narrative for your audience, count me in.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar and the Revival of Amphora Wines: Ancient Vessels, Modern Personality
Amphora wines are more than novelty—they’re an invitation to slow down, taste place, and sip with context. For wine lovers eager for stories in a bottle, clay fermentation is one of 2025’s richest threads. I’m ready to help you source one.
October 8, 2025
Zero Proof, Full Flavor: The NOLO Wine Revolution with Jeff Kretschmar
The NOLO wine movement is no longer niche — it’s tactical. As more people lean toward moderation, the wineries, tech innovators, and sommeliers who embrace NOLO now will own a growing share of the market. And if you’re curious, I’m happy to help you pick your first “buzz-free” wine.
October 1, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar Reviews the 2023 Kirkland Signature Pauillac Bordeaux: The Return of a Costco Legend
The 2023 Kirkland Signature Pauillac Bordeaux has made a stunning return after a five-year hiatus. At $21.99, it’s a screaming deal from one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious regions. Classic Pauillac character—cedar, tobacco, pencil lead, and structured fruit—is all here. It drinks young today but promises big rewards for those willing to cellar. Bottom line: this is fine Bordeaux at an unbeatable price, and it’s good to have an old friend back.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar’s Unexpected Pairing: Vlasic Dill Pickle Corn Puffs & Muscadet from COSTCO
Forget oysters and Champagne. Jeff Kretschmar proves the ultimate snack pairing is Vlasic Dill Pickle Corn Puffs with a crisp Muscadet. Salty, tangy, and downright fun.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar on Costco Snacks & Wine: Elevating Happy Hour
Wine pairing isn’t just for entrées—it’s for everyday snacks too. Costco’s shelves are full of gems that can shine when matched with the right bottle. My favorite? Kirkland pecans with tawny port, a nutty-sweet duo that keeps happy hour interesting week after week. Try it, and you’ll see how easy (and affordable) it is to elevate your snacks into a sommelier-approved spread.
October 8, 2025
Why Your Wine Costs More: Jeff Kretschmar Explains the $52 Average Bottle Price
The average U.S. DTC wine price has climbed to $52.68 per bottle, driven largely by Napa Valley’s $108 bottles. Oregon stands alone in cutting prices, while nationwide shipment volume dropped 12%. Consumers are buying fewer times but loading up with bigger baskets, pushing average orders to nearly 10 bottles. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates in both volume and price, while Chardonnay shows decline. The industry now faces a crucial balancing act: premium growth versus accessibility.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar on the 2018 Kirkland Signature Rioja Reserva: The $7.99 Jackpot
The 2018 Kirkland Signature Rioja Reserva continues a long streak of quality—rich, balanced, and approachable—with an 89-point score. At $7.99, it’s an unbeatable value, making it one of the smartest red wine buys on the market today.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar Reviews the 2020 Kirkland Signature Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2020 Kirkland Signature Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon continues the streak: a $20 Napa Cab that drinks like it should cost twice as much. Even with the challenges of the vintage, it delivers classic Oakville fruit and structure. A hair behind the ’18 and ’19, but still a solid 90-pointer and a bottle worth stocking up on.
October 8, 2025
Kirkland Signature Russian River Pinot Noir 2022 Review – Jeff Kretschmar
The Kirkland Russian River Pinot Noir 2022 is an affordable entry into Sonoma Pinot, priced at just $12. With red fruit flavors of cherry and strawberry, hints of cola, and a touch of vanilla, it’s pleasant but finishes quickly. Compared to the excellent 2021 vintage, the 2022 feels a step down. I scored it 85 points—worth trying, but buy a single bottle before you stock up.
September 19, 2025
The Quality of This Year’s Harvest Looks Great – But according to Jeff Kretschmar, It Could Also Be the Smallest in 40 Years
California’s 2025 harvest is shaping up to be a paradox: exceptional grape quality paired with the smallest crop in decades. While cool, dry weather has supported strong fruit development, economic pressures—from oversupply and bulk wine saturation to rising labor costs amplified by immigration enforcement—have led many growers to drop fruit or walk away from acreage altogether. For consumers, this means fewer bottles but potentially higher quality wine on the shelves. For growers, it’s a costly reckoning that highlights how labor availability, farming costs, and shifting demand are reshaping the state’s wine industry—and influencing the broader trend of higher food and beverage prices.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar review on Kirkland Signature Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2022
At $12.99, this remains one of Costco’s best-value Pinots. It won’t knock your socks off with depth or complexity, but it delivers a solid, balanced, and reliable Pinot Noir experience that’s tough to beat at this price point.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar notes on 2011 Kirkland Signature Medoc Bordeaux – A Budget Bottle with Modest Charm
Kirkland Bordeaux proves that not every budget wine is a hidden gem. While it opened slightly with air—showing touches of blackberry, black licorice, and a dry, spicy finish—it never rose above one-dimensional. For $8.99, it’s a harmless experiment for Bordeaux fans, but if you’re looking for real value under $10, Spain and Portugal deliver far more character. Final Score: 85 points.
October 8, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar take on 2011 Kirkland Signature Series Napa Cabernet Sauvignon – Mountain Cuvée from Costco
he 2011 Kirkland Signature Napa Mountain Cuvée proves that you don’t always need to spend $40+ to experience what Napa’s mountain fruit can deliver. It’s a bold, structured Cabernet with dark fruit and peppery spice, perfect for anyone looking to expand their palate without draining their wallet.
September 21, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar: The Lighter Bottle Play—Cut Carbon, Cut Cost, Keep the Quality
Retailers and suppliers are moving to ~300g lightweight bottles, with major programs rolling out in 2025. Paper bottles are five times lighter than glass and now live at national retailers. Quality still rules—but heavy glass is no longer a status signal.
September 20, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar: Tequila’s Next Chapter—From Scarcity Hype to Smart Value
Tequila/mezcal still grow, but slower; inventories ballooned and pricing is recalibrating. Shift attention to well-made reposado/añejo at fair prices, NOM transparency, and terroir-driven mezcal.
September 19, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar: Moderation Nation—How No/Low Alcohol Became a $5B U.S. Frontier
U.S. drinkers hit a record low participation rate in 2025 while no-alcohol surges toward ~$5B by 2028. The picture is nuanced by age and occasion, but the opportunity is real—especially in beer and RTD
September 18, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar: The RTD Shake-Up—Why Spirits-Based Cans Are Owning the Cooler
Cocktails/RTDs are the top growth engine in spirits; spirits-based share is rising quickly. Quality cues, clear spirit callouts, and fewer, better SKUs win shelf space.
September 17, 2025
eff Kretschmar on Selective Premiumization: Why Drinkers Trade Up—But Only When It’s Worth It
Premiumization hasn’t died; it’s matured. High-end still drives value, but consumers are choosier. Focus on hero SKUs with provenance, proof points, and great experiences to maintain trade-up in a cautious market.
September 15, 2025
Inside the Glass with Jeff Kretschmar: Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Prestige 2023
Domaine de la Janasse’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Prestige 2023 is proof that white Rhône wines can be both complex and cellar-worthy. With its blend of Clairette, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc, aged gracefully in neutral oak, this wine brings citrus brightness, subtle spice, and a long, elegant finish. It’s drinking well today, but the real magic will show after a few years of patience. For $100, it’s not just a bottle — it’s an experience worth revisiting.
September 17, 2025
The Bourbon That Birthed Pappy: W.L. Weller’s Wheated Revolution”
W.L. Weller didn’t fire up stills—he fired up imaginations. By introducing wheat into bourbon’s mash bill in 1849, he created a smoother, sweeter alternative to rye-based whiskey. That innovation shaped bourbon history, leading to Stitzel–Weller and iconic labels like Old Fitzgerald, Weller, and Pappy Van Winkle. Today’s Special Reserve isn’t just a bottle—it’s the legacy of bourbon’s great disruptor.
September 17, 2025
Fantesca Estate: The Spring Mountain Jewel Where Napa’s Legends Leave Their Mark
Fantesca Estate isn’t just another Napa winery—it’s a story in every glass. With organic vineyards on Spring Mountain, a heritage guided by Jim Barbour and Heidi Barrett, and a production of just 4,500 cases, the estate delivers both scarcity and soul. From the graphite-driven Cabernet to the ever-mysterious “All Great Things” blend, Fantesca reflects Napa’s history while hinting at its future. A true boutique jewel, designed for those who want more than just a bottle—they want the story behind it.
September 17, 2025
Cameron Hughes Wines: The Renegade Who Outsmarted Napa
Cameron Hughes isn’t just a winemaker—he’s a disruptor. His négociant model transformed surplus high-end wines into affordable treasures, wrapped in secrecy and intrigue. From the cult-like Lot releases to the high-stakes fight over “The Négociant” label, Hughes thrives on reinvention. The result? Fine wine that’s accessible, mysterious, and always part of a bigger story.
September 17, 2025
The Forgotten Woman Who Invented Sour Mash (Before Old Crow Made It Famous)
Bourbon’s story isn’t just about famous distillers—it’s about everyday pioneers. In 1818, Catherine Carpenter documented sour mash, using backset to keep whiskey stable and flavorful. Dr. James Crow later refined it, and Old Crow Bourbon became a 19th-century icon. Carpenter may not have had a brand, but her note changed the trajectory of American whiskey.
September 17, 2025
Charred Oak & Elijah Craig: How the 1790s Defined Bourbon
he charred oak barrel wasn’t just a storage vessel — it was the crucible where bourbon was born. Whether Elijah Craig deserves the credit or not, the practice gave whiskey its identity and America its native spirit. Two centuries later, Elijah Craig Small Batch still tips its hat to that fiery innovation.
September 17, 2025
From Frontier Stills to Black Labels: The Evan Williams Story and Bourbon’s 1780s Beginnings
Bourbon’s story starts not with slick labels but with Kentucky farmers trying to make corn portable—and drinkable. Evan Williams, the Welsh immigrant who set up one of the first commercial stills in Louisville, became a symbol of that frontier ingenuity. Heaven Hill’s Evan Williams Bourbon, introduced in 1957, keeps that spirit alive: a nod to Kentucky’s earliest whiskey makers, where history, myth, and marketing all meet in the glass.
September 5, 2025
Jeff's View on Gen Z’s Nuanced Influence on Wine
Gen Z isn’t turning away from wine—they’re transforming it. By drinking less but spending more, they’re pushing winemakers toward authenticity, sustainability, and premium quality. This “less but better” approach is setting the tone for the future of wine, where every glass tells a richer, healthier, and more intentional story.
September 5, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar on XXL Moscato: How 16–21% ABV Turned a Light Sipper Into a Heavyweight
XXL Moscato isn’t just a bigger version of the sweet sparkler—it’s a whole new chapter. From its bold rise in demand to its fortified-style tasting notes, it challenges expectations and sparks debate. Whether you pour it as a fireside digestif or a party statement, one thing’s certain: Moscato has never been this muscular.
September 5, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar on Zebra Striping: The Mindful Drinking Trend Redefining Cocktails in 2025
Zebra striping is no fad—it’s the new playbook for drinking smarter. By alternating cocktails with zero-proof pours, you keep flavor high, cut the hangover risk, and stay in control of your night. As Jeff Kretschmar, I see it as the balance between craft and clarity—a lifestyle shift that’s rewriting how we drink in 2025.
September 1, 2025
Jeff Kretschmar on Pickle Cocktails: Spritz, Dirty Martini & Frozen Painkiller Are This Fall’s Boldest Trend
Pickle brine is the surprise star of fall cocktails—adding tang, salt, and depth to classics and tropical blends alike. From light spritzes to bold martinis and frozen tiki riffs, these drinks prove brine is more than a garnish—it’s a flavor upgrade. Jeff Kretschmar reviews, pairs, and taste-tests the trend straight from D&W Fresh Market.
August 23, 2025
Convenience Just Crushed the Cocktail Shaker
RTD cocktails are no longer a novelty—they’re a movement. Fueled by young consumers and premiumization, these grab-and-go drinks are reshaping the alcohol landscape with double-digit growth, gourmet ingredients, and strategic shelf takeover.
October 8, 2025
The Next Big Drink Trend? No Proof Required
The no- and low-alcohol beverage category is moving from fringe trend to major disruptor — driven by Millennial and Gen Z consumers focused on wellness, productivity, and “conscious indulgence.” Growth estimates hover around 4% CAGR through 2028, putting billions of dollars in play across retail, restaurants, and CPG brands positioning themselves to ride this sober-curious wave. Mocktail bars are popping up in nightlife capitals, celebrity-backed NA spirits are hitting the shelves, and the functional beverage boom (featuring ingredients like kava, L-theanine, and ashwagandha) is merging “health” with “happy hour.” What used to be a compromise is now becoming the premium choice — meaning the future of drinking might be a lot less boozy… but a whole lot more interesting.
August 21, 2025
The Future is Dry: Why the “Sober-Curious” Shift Is More Than Just a Trend
Alcohol consumption has dropped to its lowest point in nearly 90 years, with younger generations opting for sobriety-friendly lifestyles that prioritize health and mindfulness over hangovers. This “sober-curious” movement is transforming nightlife, ushering in non-alcoholic bars, complex zero-proof offerings, and a new consumer mindset. Rather than rejecting the social ritual of drinking, today’s drinkers are redefining it—choosing flavor, clarity, and wellness without the booze.
August 21, 2025
Another Kentucky whiskey brand reports a big drop in bourbon sales, August 7, 2025
Another major Kentucky distiller has reported a big drop in bourbon sales. This time, it’s Bulleit, owned by global spirits giant Diageo. Diageo reported full-year sales Aug.
August 21, 2025
Bourbon’s Boom Turns to Bust?
Bourbon’s downturn is real—but so is its resilience. This is a spirit that survived Prohibition, countless economic cycles, and changing tastes. The next chapter will likely be defined not by chasing the last boom, but by innovating for the next one. If history is any guide, bourbon may well find itself back in the spotlight—just perhaps in a more refined glass.
August 18, 2025
The Most Overrated Red Wines — and Why You Might Be Paying for the Label, Not the Liquid (2025 Sommelier Deep Dive)
Overrated doesn’t mean undrinkable. It means your money might go further elsewhere. The best wine isn’t the one with the highest price or the flashiest label — it’s the one that excites your palate, fits your moment, and tells a story worth savoring.If you want to explore wines that deliver real value, skip the hype and talk to a trusted sommelier or wine merchant. We can lead you to bottles that overdeliver — the kind you’ll remember long after the glass is empty.
August 21, 2025
Manpreet Dhaliwal Makes History: Canada’s First South Asian Female Head Winemaker Wins Double Gold & Platinum
With her second consecutive Double Gold for the Phulkari Rosé and a Platinum for her Cabernet Franc, Manpreet Dhaliwal cements her place as one of Canada’s most inspiring winemakers. At Kismet Estate Winery, every bottle blends heritage, heart, and world-class craftsmanship—raising the bar for Canadian wine.
August 21, 2025
From Mad Men to Market Slump: Is Bourbon’s Golden Age Over?
Bourbon’s Boom to Bust? The Classic American Spirit Faces Its Toughest Test Since ProhibitionAs American as apple pie and baseball, Kentucky bourbon has long held a proud place on the national stage. Its roots trace back to the 18th century, but it wasn’t until 1964 that Congress sealed its legacy, declaring bourbon a “distinctive product of the United States. ” A spirit born from corn, matured in charred oak, and steeped in history, bourbon has been more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of American craftsmanship.
August 21, 2025
The Rise of the Spaghett: Muskegon’s Blue-Collar Summer Cocktail of Choice
The Spaghett is having a moment in Muskegon, embraced by locals as the no-fuss, high-flavor cocktail of summer. Made by adding Aperol and lemon juice to a bottle of Miller High Life, it’s a refreshing, low-cost alternative to trendy spritzes. This blog explores the drink’s roots, why it resonates with West Michigan’s blue-collar crowd, and how it’s quietly becoming the lakeshore’s go-to warm-weather sipper. No shaker required—just pop the cap and pour.
August 21, 2025
Craft Beers Gone Wild - Great Lakes Brewing Beers
9 years ago, when Rod Jay and I first started our craft beer video, we were doing it from two separate locations. I was living in Chicago, Illinois, and Rod Jay was from Cincinnati, Ohio. We met online in different social groups and quickly became friends and started a nice little venture together.
August 6, 2025
https://distributorwineguide.wordpress.com/2025/08/04/downeast-extra-hard-blue-slushie-cider-review-8-abv/
August 21, 2025
Breaking In: Crafting a Winning Beverage Market Entry Strategy
Breaking In: Winning Beverage Market Entry with Proven Brand, Distribution, and Retail Strategies [2025 Guide]Breaking into the beverage market takes more than a great product. Many founders find themselves stuck—local wins aren't translating into broader retail placement, and distributor doors stay closed without the right connections. The truth is, market entry isn't just about industry knowledge or a well-designed label.
August 21, 2025
Behind the Bottle: The Making of Blush & Bloom Rosé
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
August 21, 2025
Why Bars & Restaurants Can’t Ignore the Non-Alcoholic Movement Anymore
Bars and restaurants that embrace premium non-alcoholic options aren’t just following a trend—they’re boosting sales, enhancing guest experiences, and staying ahead of the competition.
August 21, 2025
Visit us and discover the beauty of Wine House
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
August 21, 2025
Five Tips for Storing and Serving Purchased Wines
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
August 21, 2025
How to Choose the Perfect Wine for Any Celebration
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
August 21, 2025
The History and Heritage of Sonoma Valley Wines
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
August 21, 2025
Perfect Pairings: Tasty Wine and Holiday Feasts
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
August 21, 2025
A Beginner’s Guide to Tasting Wine Like a Pro
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley, our family-owned vineyard produces exceptional wines with a deep respect for tradition.
Beyond Proof
A Taste-First Platform for
Non-Alcohol Brands
Be Seen
Beyond Proof is where zero-proof and low-ABV brands break through the noise. Tailored for today’s mindful drinker, our platform elevates non-alcohol innovation through rich content, thought leadership, and immersive experiences that captivate.
Be Sold
We help you earn shelf space — and consumer trust — by spotlighting taste, quality, and craftsmanship. From food pairings to flavor reviews, we position non-alc beverages with the same credibility and sensory appeal as traditional spirits.
Be Sipped
We help you earn shelf space — and consumer trust — by spotlighting taste, quality, and craftsmanship. From food pairings to flavor reviews, we position non-alc beverages with the same credibility and sensory appeal as traditional spirits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your insights better than generic research firms?
Our intelligence comes from real-world retail relationships and execution—not just data modeling.
Are your webinars and podcasts accessible on-demand?
Yes, we maintain an archive of all our media content for registered users.
How often are your playbooks and guides updated?
We release updates quarterly to reflect shifts in consumer trends and retail dynamics.
Do you offer competitive brand analysis?
Yes, we benchmark your brand against market leaders to identify white space and opportunities.
How do you gather industry insights?
We monitor buyer behavior, emerging trends, and consumer research across all beverage categories.
Do you assist with retail compliance and logistics?
Yes, we guide you through shelf-ready packaging, case configuration, and distributor prep.
What’s the difference between on-premise and retail strategy?
On-premise focuses on bar/restaurant experiences; retail emphasizes packaging and shelf impact.
Is DTC viable for beverage brands in 2025?
Yes, especially for niche or premium brands—though logistics and retention are key.
How do I get meetings with retail buyers?
Through our network and pitch refinement process, we help you secure and win key buyer meetings.
What are the top retail channels for new beverage brands?
Grocery, natural/specialty, and DTC are top starting points—channel mix depends on your product and strategy.
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