DRINKS.COM Podcast
Episode 25
How to Crack the U.S. Wine Market Beating the Three-Tier Maze and Winning Big-Box Retail
Brandon Amoroso sits down with Pedro Garcia—Managing Director USA & Canada for global wine powerhouse Felix Solis Avantis—to unpack the playbook he’s used to push a family‑owned Spanish brand into Costco, Sam’s Club, and dozens of regional chains. Pedro reveals how deep distributor know‑how, retailer‑focused “experience trips,” and relentless price‑to‑quality discipline can help any wine entrepreneur outmaneuver the three‑tier bottleneck, survive margin‑crunching headwinds, and prep for the coming DTC and “fourth‑tier” e‑commerce wave. Tune in for hard‑won lessons on activating chain buyers, choosing the right moments to invest in digital, and building a sustainability story that resonates with modern consumers. Perfect listening for founders, sales leads, and portfolio managers looking to scale smart in 2025’s hyper‑competitive U.S. market.
Episode 24
Modern Global Wine Trends with Kyle Ray from ASV Wines
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso sits down with Kyle Ray, the general manager of ASV Wines, to explore the dynamic evolution of the wine industry. Kyle shares his journey from starting as an intern to managing a multifaceted wine business, delving into topics such as globalization, the surge of organic and low-alcohol wines, and the cautious integration of AI in winemaking. With insights into market shifts post-COVID and personal wine memories that highlight the romance of wine culture, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how tradition and innovation are blending in today’s wine landscape.
Episode 23
Optimizing Wine E-Commerce: Andrew Kamphuis on Digital DTC Innovations
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso is joined by Andrew Kamphuis, President of Commerce7, as they explore the cutting edge of wine
e-commerce and direct-to-consumer innovation. Andrew dives into how his platform
transforms the digital wine buying experience—from seamless checkouts and AI-driven
product recommendations to building deeper customer relationships through unified CRM
systems. Discover the strategic shifts that are redefining how wineries engage with modern
consumers and drive recurring revenue in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
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Episode 22
Engineering Excellence in Wine Imports: Insights into Vertical Integration & Market Dynamics
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso dives into the technical side of the wine import business with Roger Scommegna, founder of Flying Blue Imports. Listen to learn how engineering principles are transforming the way wine is sourced, priced, and distributed. Drawing from years of experience, Roger explains how vertical integration and a data-driven approach have become critical in optimizing supply chain efficiency and navigating market dynamics in a highly regulated industry.
Episode 21
Direct to Consumer Strategies and Tech Innovations in the Wine Industry
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso welcomes Patrick Roney, the former founder and CEO of Vintage Wine Estates and Windsor Vineyards to discuss the evolving wine industry. With nearly four decades of experience—from his beginnings as a sommelier at Chicago’s Pump Room to leading major brands like Seagram's and Chateau Saint Jean—Patrick shares invaluable knowledge and industry insights.
Episode 20
Navigating Italy's Wine Landscape: Innovation, e-Commerce, and Biodiversity
In this episode, Brandon Amoroso sits down with Gaetano Peragine , Founder and Managing Director of Straitalian Winemakers , to explore the intricate world of Italian wine. Gaetano shares his journey from the media industry to revolutionizing the wine business, tackling challenges like supply chain disruptions during COVID-19, and leveraging e-commerce and AI to connect with modern consumers. Discover how Straitalian Winemakers is bridging tradition with innovation to make Italian wines more accessible and approachable for a global audience.
Episode 19
Innovation on Tap: Redefinining Craft Brewing with Joe Chura from Go Brewing
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso sits down with Joe Chura , founder and CEO of Go Brewing , to discuss his unconventional journey from automotive to alcohol. Joe shares insights from transitioning between industries, the importance of customer data in scaling new markets, and the unique challenges of the non-alcoholic beer industry.
Episosde 18
Raising the Bar: EthicDrinks' Quest for Eco-friendly Wine Excellence with Mickael Alborghetti
In this episode of the Drinks.com podcast, host Brandon Amoroso chats with Mickael Alborghetti , founder and CEO of EthicDrinks . They delve into the evolving landscape of the wine industry, discussing the shift towards sustainable practices, organic production, and innovative packaging. Mickael shares his journey from vineyards in Burgundy to pioneering a wine brand that marries tradition with modern consumer needs, including transparency in wine labeling and the rise of non-alcoholic wines.
Episode 17
From Vines to Virtual: The New Age of Digital Wine Experiences with Justin Nolan
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, Brandon Amoroso and Justin Noland , VP of Digital Experience at Treasury Americas, discuss the transformative journey of the wine industry as it merges age-old traditions with cutting-edge digital experiences. The discussion spans innovative strategies reshaping how wine is marketed, sold, and enjoyed globally. They explore the pivotal role of digital tools in enhancing wine production, from vineyard management with AI to engaging consumers through augmented reality labels and more. Join us to uncover how tradition and technology blend to breathe new life into the wine industry, making each sip a testament to innovation.
Episode 16
German Wine Reimagined with Sommelier Zack Musick
In this episode of the DRINKS.com Podcast, Brandon Amoroso speaks with Zack Musick, Director of Education for the German Wine Collection. Zack delves into his journey from a budding sommelier in Laguna Beach to a pivotal figure in promoting German wines in the U.S. He shares his unique insights into the diversity and complexity of German wines beyond the typical sweet Riesling, advocating for a broader appreciation of Germany's wine offerings including dry wines, Pinot Blanc, and the emerging German Chardonnay.
Episode 15
Navigating the Future of D2C Wines Sales
In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso engages with Jeff Meisel, VP and General Manager of DTC Wine and Spirits at Constellation Brands. Jeff shares his journey from the restaurant industry into the vanguard of direct-to-consumer strategies in wine and spirits, offering a glimpse into the innovative approaches reshaping how brands connect with consumers.
Investment Insights in the Alcohol Industry
Join host Brandon Amoroso as he delves into the fascinating world of the alcohol industry with Michael Cella, a seasoned expert in consumer investment banking. In this episode, Cella shares valuable insights into the macroeconomic landscape of wineries and alcohol, challenging prevailing narratives with a contrarian perspective. From the impact of COVID on online alcohol sales to the rise of experiential retail, Michael and Brandon explore the trends shaping the industry's future. With a focus on resilience and innovation, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Join the conversation today to stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of the alcohol industry.
Whiskey Blending Mastery
In this episode of the Drinks.com podcast, host Brandon Amoroso speaks with Jota Tanaka, the master blender of Fuji Whisky. They delve into Tanaka's remarkable journey from brewing and winemaking in California and Kentucky to his role at Fuji Gotemba Distillery. Jota shares his insights into whiskey blending, market trends, and the impact of global demand on Japanese whiskey. He also discusses the delicate balance between tradition and innovation while introducing the special 50th-anniversary single malt blend. Listen in to uncover the artistry, legacy, and global vision that define Fuji Whisky's approach to crafting spirits.
Wine Industry Innovations
Step into the world of wine innovation with host Brandon Amoroso and special guest Johan Eide, the mastermind behind Region and Sampl. Together, they unravel the complexities of wine production, the power of direct-to-consumer sales, and the future of tasting room experiences. Join them as they uncork the secrets to authentic wine engagement and toast to a future where tradition meets innovation.
Crafting Your Wine Experience With Philip James
Join Brandon Amoroso as he explores the dynamic world of online alcohol sales with Philip James, the visionary founder of Firstleaf, on The DRINKS.com Podcast. Delve into Philip's journey from the UK to pioneering the digital wine industry in the US, and uncover the innovative approach of Firstleaf in personalized wine recommendations. From discussing wine production intricacies to navigating the challenges of brand loyalty and the impact of the pandemic on the industry, Brandon and Philip offer invaluable insights. Discover the transformative role of technology, including Firstleaf's mobile app and the use of generative AI, in reshaping industries and adapting to evolving market dynamics. Gain a profound understanding of the intricate interplay between technology, consumer behavior, and industry evolution in this captivating episode.
Wine Access And The Art of Personalized E-Commerce
Explore the world of wine with Joe Fisch, CEO of Wine Access, in this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast. Joe takes us on his career journey, from Ghirardelli Chocolate Company to the world of wine, highlighting the importance of quality and storytelling in the industry. Discover the emotional connection people have with wine, the challenges of digital adoption, and the evolving preferences of younger generations. From non-alcoholic trends to unforgettable wine experiences, this conversation uncorks a rich blend of insights into the wine business. Join Brandon Amoroso and Joe Fisch as they toast to the past, present, and future of wine.
From Liquor Licenses to Liquid Assets
Join Brandon Amoroso as he interviews Brian Rosen, Chairman of Growth Beverage, whose rich background as a scion of Chicago's first post-Prohibition liquor license holders sets the stage for an enlightening discussion. Discover the keys to success in this competitive landscape, from sustainable business models to the role of e-commerce. Plus, learn Brian's investment criteria, emphasizing financial acumen and receptive leadership.
Mastering the Wine Industry with Quinton Jay
Join host Brandon Amoroso in an enlightening conversation with Quinton Jay, the founder and managing director of Bacchus Consulting Group, a seasoned expert in the beverage alcohol industry. Quinton shares valuable insights into the evolving consumer trends, the impact of technology, and the challenges and opportunities in the wine industry. Explore the significance of storytelling, customer engagement, inventory management, and e-commerce, all while gaining a deeper understanding of the wine business. Whether you're a wine industry professional or simply curious about this dynamic world, this episode provides essential takeaways and a comprehensive view of the industry's landscape.
Redefining Wine, One Can at a Time with Kristin Olszewski
Join host Brandon Amoroso in an engaging conversation with Kristin Olszewski, the founder and CEO of Nomadica Wine, on this episode of The DRINKS.COM Podcast. Kristin shares her journey from sommelier to entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in branding and marketing for today's savvy consumers. Discover the world of canned wine, sustainability, and the sensory experience of wine as Kristin redefines how we enjoy this beloved beverage.
Challenging the Old Guard in Alchohol
Michael Bowen is co-founder and COO of Speakeasy, the platform that's revolutionizing the world of online alcohol and e-commerce. He shares his journey, from working with digital first companies to e-commerce startups, and how his passion birthed Speakeasy. Learn about how his move to Shopify entirely transformed their business, allowing them to manage a staggering 300+ brands more effectively and enable these brands to tell their own story.
Delving into the Art of Hospitality
Renowned Michelin-starred chef and industry icon, Geoffrey Zakarian, imparts business acumen, captivating tales, and a wealth of wisdom gleaned from his Food Network years and restaurant empire management. Discover his distinctive approach to wine selection and the secret behind his restaurant's impeccable consistency.
Demystifying E-Commerce In The Alcohol Industry
Blake Moore, Director of E-Commerce at RNDC, demystifies the intricate world of e-commerce in the alcohol industry. From discussing the traditional three-tier system and the rise of marketplaces like Instacart to sharing pandemic-era strategies and the importance of an omni-channel approach, Blake’s insights are invaluable.
Exploring the Journey of Wine
Joe Megibow of Bright Cellars breaks the wine business down. A lifelong wine enthusiast, Joe aims to make wine accessible to the younger generation through data-driven personalization. He discusses the industry's challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of an in-house approach over outsourcing for true success.
Revolutionizing Spirits
Join us as we journey through Guillaume Cuvelier’s impressive trajectory in the beverage alcohol industry. From revolutionizing vodka branding with Svedka to forming impactful partnerships with celebrities, Cuvelier shares a wealth of experience and insights that continue to shape the future of alcohol marketing and branding.
Embracing Technology in the Wine Business
The DRINKS.com Podcast launches with an in-depth chat with our esteemed guest, Jessica Kogan , the Chief Growth and Experience Officer of Vintage Wine Estates. Jessica is at the forefront of blending tech with tradition, leveraging AI and other technologies to better connect with customers. Jessica shares fascinating insights on how the sands of the marketplace are going through a fundamental shift.