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Inside the U.S. Wine Consumer: What’s Driving Demand in 2026?
January 27 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am PST
The Wine Market Council (WMC) is proud to announce a collaborative industry seminar with Wine Enthusiast titled, “Inside the U.S. Wine Consumer: What’s Driving Demand in 2026?” Taking place the day after the 26th annual Wine Enthusiast Wine Stars Award gala, this engaging two-hour session will explore the latest consumer insights, sales data, and innovative strategies shaping the future of wine in the U.S.—the world’s largest wine-consuming and purchasing nation.
The global wine industry continues to navigate a period of turbulence marked by fluctuating sales and increased competition. This seminar aims to equip attendees with actionable knowledge and strategies to strengthen engagement, boost sales, and adapt to emerging consumer trends.
Expert Panelists and Topics of Discussion
The seminar features a lineup of leading voices from across the wine sector who will share exclusive data, market intelligence, and hands-on strategies:
- Liz Thach, MW (Wine Market Council, President): Overview of the U.S. Wine Consumer, featuring findings from the new Benchmark Study and other recent research. Strategic insights and tactics for connecting with evolving consumer segments.
- Zachary Poelma (SGWS, Senior Vice President – Commercial Intelligence) Analysis of U.S. Wine Market sales trends and distributor perspectives on how producers can sell more effectively within the three-tier system.
- Dan Kleinman (Deutsch Family, Chief Brand Officer): What it takes to succeed in today’s market as an importer and producer, with a focus on innovation and adaptive business practices.
- Alexandra O’Gorman (Foley Family Wines, Vice President of Community Relations): Success strategies for selling wine in on-premise and direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels.
- Ben Aneff (Tribeca Wine Merchants, Owner): Retail perspectives on shifting demand and purchasing behaviors, and suggestions for wineries to sell wine more effectively in retail settings.
Agenda
- 8:30 – 9:15 a.m. – Registration & Continental Breakfast
- 9:15 – 9:45 a.m. – Inside the U.S. Wine Consumer – Dr. Liz Thach, MW
- 9:45 – 11:00 a.m. – Panel with Q&A: What’s Driving Demand in 2026? – Zachary Poelma, Dan Kleinman, Alexandra O’Gorman and Ben Aneff
Who Should Attend
This seminar is designed for WMC members, wineries, importers, distributors, media and wine business professionals attending the Wine Stars Awards gala or based in the New York area.
Registration Opens: Dec 1, 2025; Please check the WMC website for registration link.
