The "Elegant" Few

If you were to look at American drinking habits your would discover that Wine has never been America's favorite beverage. In fact, according to "Windows on the World" complete wine course, forty percent of all Americans don't drink alcohol at all, and another thirty percent don't drink wine. This leaves only what I call "The Elegant 30%" who drink one glass of wine each week, which, is the definition for a "wine drinker" in the U.S."

Wine is a sophisticated sip. And it really only accounts for 2.4 gallons per person per year, far below soft drinks at 54 gallons per person per year and beer at 31 gallons pp/py. Even though wine drinking jumped by over a third in the U.S. from 1991 to 1998, it still ranks far below other beverages. Among the Elegant 30% who enjoy wine, the preference in decidedly American wine. Less than 20% of their consumption is imported. Of course, California wines are about 90% of that number with Washington State, New York and Oregon taking the other top four slots.

But HERE's something new....Kentucky wine is now being considered as a chart climber! Kentucky, whose rich clay and limestone are a perfect location for wineries is growing wineries faster than almost any other state. The rich soil, ideal climate and perfect land mass, gives Kentucky a HUGE step ahead of other States. In fact, Kentucky has more plantable acreage for viticultural pursuits than California ever dreamed of. (Yes....it's true, eat your heart out Napa!)

Great little facts to cough up next to your beer drinking friends at the next social gathering! Oh yes, and visit your local Kentucky winery soon! Don't forget to visit me at our NEW RETAIL LOCATION: in the Madison Wedding Mall at 630 Madison Avenue, Covington, KY 41011. And call me to schedule a tasting! 859-912-1224 or toll free at 877-317-2050!