Jesse Lyon on the Oregon Wine Industry, KXL's Northwest Vine Time

This is an interesting time for the Northwest wine industry. Economic recession and a sophisticated and demanding consumer market have created unique challenges and great opportunities for winemakers throughout the region. In addition, a new executive director for the Oregon Winegrowers Association will bring new ideas and direction to the industry. Jesse D. Lyon joins Northwest Vine Time host Brian Bushlach for a timely discussion on these and other issues of importance to this enormous and influential regional industry. Northwest Vine Time airs on KXL 750 AM in Portland, or on www.kxl.com online.

Segment 1 (MP3): Jess talks about his background and how he got involved with representing wineries/vineyards and other food and beverage industry businesses. 

Segment 2 (MP3): Jess talks about the changes and growth in the Oregon wine industry, its unique challenges and opportunities, as well as the Oregon Winegrowers Association and its new executive director. 

Segment 3 (MP3): Jess and the host discuss the economic challenges facing the industry in the wake of the current recession, and how Oregon winemakers continue to persevere despite market pressures. 

Segment 4 (MP3): Jess imparts some legal advice on some basic things winemakers can do to improve their business model and opportunity for financial success.

Mateveza makes sure its "baby" isn't thrown out with Alcohol Energy Drinks

DWT client Mateveza (an organic, naturally caffeinated beer) responded quickly to the State of Michigan's efforts to ban "alcohol energy drinks" from the market.

The rash of regulatory responses to caffeinated products is driven largely by headline-grabbing problems at a few certain campus parties (which appear to have included not only beverages in this category, but many other irresponsibly consumed substances -- including illicit drugs as well as distilled spirits sold through the state liquor control system). Neo-temperance supporters have latched on to this policy opportunity in an effort to more broadly push their agendas at the state level, even though the federal FDA continues to study the issue and has not made any safety determinations about the mix of caffeine and alcohol.

All suppliers of caffeinated beverages would be well-served to watch where this leads...