The DRINKS Podcast: The Business of Online Alcohol

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.

Jota Tanaka:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jota-tanaka-a19a37146/

Brandon Amoroso:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonamoroso/
Web - https://brandonamoroso.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bamoroso11/
X - https://twitter.com/AmorosoBrandon

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.

Johan Eide

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johan-eide-8191b9114

Brandon Amoroso:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonamoroso/

Web - https://brandonamoroso.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bamoroso11/

X - https://twitter.com/AmorosoBrandon

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.

Philip James

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipjames/
Sampl - https://drinksampl.com/
Region - https://drinkregion.com/

Brandon Amoroso:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonamoroso/
Web - https://brandonamoroso.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bamoroso11/
X - https://twitter.com/AmorosoBrandon

In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, Brandon Amoroso sits down with Joe Fisch, the CEO of Wine Access, a premier platform for expertly curated wines. Joe shares his journey from working in retail and consumer-focused roles, including Ghirardelli Chocolate Company and TWC, to his passion for e-commerce, retail, and wine, leading him to Wine Access.

Wine Access, a direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform renowned for sourcing the world's finest wines, offers not only exceptional wines but also rich narratives that reveal the stories behind each bottle. Joe emphasizes the essence of delivering a high-quality product, as wine transcends categories by connecting people through shared moments and cherished memories.

Brandon and Joe delve into various facets of the wine industry and customer preferences. They discuss Joe's surprises when transitioning into the wine industry, the importance of building relationships within the wine sector, and the gradual adoption of digital tools in the wine business.

Trust and relationships with vintners play a pivotal role when representing premium wine brands on platforms like Wine Access, as Joe underlines. He also sheds light on the slower pace of digital adoption within the wine industry compared to other sectors, emphasizing the need for modern e-commerce practices.

The discussion also touches on wine trends, including the popularity of grower Champagne, affordable white wines, and high-end Bordeaux. Joe explains Wine Access's approach to serving customers with varying wine expertise and introduces strategies for introducing customers to higher-priced wines.

They wrap up the conversation with insights into customer budgeting for wine, including the potential for customers to explore more expensive bottles and different wine regions and varieties.

Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the world of wine, personalization in e-commerce, navigating regulatory challenges, and unforgettable wine experiences. 

In this episode of the Drinks.com Podcast, host Brandon Amoroso chats with 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.

Through this conversation you will gain valuable insights into evaluating potential investments in the beverage alcohol industry, where financial acumen and strong leadership qualities intersect with the ever-evolving landscape of consumer preferences and market dynamics.

Topic timestamps

🎙️ Introduction and Brian Rosen's Background (00:00:00)

🚀 Founding Bev Strat and Role in Brand Sales (00:02:10)

🌱 Introduction to Growth Beverage Ecosystem (00:03:12)

🚫 No and Low Alcohol Alternatives (00:05:38)

❌ Challenges in Seltzer Market (00:07:56)

🌿 Sustainable Business Models (00:08:24)

👥 Building Direct Customer Relationships (00:10:01)

🔍 Regtech and Compliance (00:14:27)

🌟 Strategies for New Brands (00:15:32)

🌎 Expanding Distribution (00:16:07)

🌑 Challenges in the Gray Area of Alcohol (00:17:08)

💼 Capitalization for New Brands (00:18:04)

💡 What Investors Look for in Beverage Alcohol Businesses (00:25:55)

👔 The Importance of a Good and Active Leadership Team (00:26:45)

📊 Key Metrics Investors Want to Know (00:27:02)

🛠️ The Role of Expertise and Resources in Investment (00:29:25)

🍻 Favorite Alcohol Memory (00:30:22)

🎤 Wrapping up the Interview (00:33:04)

In this episode, Brandon sits down with Quinton Jay, the founder and managing director of Bacchus Consulting Group and a seasoned expert in the beverage alcohol industry. Throughout their conversation, Quinton Jay shares a wealth of insights and experiences, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone interested in the wine industry.

Together, they delve into a wide range of topics, including the evolving consumer trends impacting the wine industry, the profound influence of technology, and the numerous challenges and opportunities that wineries face in today's dynamic landscape. Quinton Jay's extensive knowledge and perspective offer listeners a deeper understanding of the wine business.

Throughout the episode, you'll also discover the importance of storytelling and customer engagement in the wine industry, the complexities of inventory management and distribution, the evolving role of e-commerce with a focus on platforms like Shopify, the significance of marketing and legal compliance for wine businesses, and Quinton's personal favorite wine memories and standout bottles.

Whether you're a seasoned professional in the beverage alcohol industry or simply curious about the world of wine, this episode provides valuable takeaways and a comprehensive view of the industry's challenges and opportunities. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Quinton Jay.

Timestamps

• 🎙️ (00:00:00) - Introduction: Quinton Jay's Background and Journey
• 💡 (00:03:15) - Exciting Trends in the Beverage Alcohol Space
• 📦 (00:05:43) - Direct-to-Consumer Experiences
• 🔍 (00:07:36) - Leveraging Technology for Wine Industry Growth
• 📈 (00:13:50) - Success Factors in Wine Business
• 📦 (00:15:29) - Inventory Challenges
• 📌 (00:21:28) - Customer Retention Strategies
• 🛒 (00:26:40) - Evolution of E-commerce and Shopify in the Alcohol Industry
• 🛍️ (00:27:09) - Challenges of the Alcohol Industry and Why Shopify Is Chosen
• 📜 (00:28:52) - Complexity of Alcohol Regulations, Taxation, and Shipping
• 🌐 (00:29:50) - Bringing Together the Best Minds in the Industry Through Platforms Like Shopify
• 🌐 (00:30:13) - Making It Easy for Winemakers and Sellers to Get Online
• 📉 (00:32:14) - Challenges for Small and Medium-Sized Companies
• 🍷 (00:33:01) - Favorite Wine 
• 👋 (00:36:22) - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Website

Kristin Olszewski is the visionary founder and CEO of Nomadica Wines. Kristin's journey from being a sommelier to becoming an entrepreneur in the wine industry is not only inspiring but also a testament to her unwavering passion for wine and her mission to redefine how we perceive and enjoy it.

Throughout the episode, Kristin shares her experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the world of wine. From the inception of Nomadica Wines to navigating the tumultuous waters of the COVID-19 pandemic, she offers invaluable insights into what it takes to build a successful wine company.

One of the key takeaways from this episode is Kristin's commitment to making wine more accessible and approachable, especially for younger generations. She recognizes the importance of authenticity in branding and marketing, a concept that resonates deeply with today's savvy consumers. As she aptly puts it, consumers now possess a "B.S. detector" that can instantly detect inauthenticity.

The discussion also touches on sustainability, a core principle of Nomadica Wines, and the exceptional quality of canned wine. Kristin's passion for sustainability and her dedication to offering a top-notch product are evident in every aspect of her business.

Overall, this episode of The DRINKS.COM Podcast is packed of wisdom for wine enthusiasts, aspiring entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the intersection of wine, marketing, and authenticity. Kristin Olszewski's passion, authenticity, and dedication shine through, making this episode both informative and truly enjoyable. Tune in to discover the fascinating world of wine through Kristin's eyes and uncover the secrets to building an authentic and successful brand in today's competitive market.

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.

We unravel how challenging the 'old guard' can create opportunities in the digital world. Michael unpacks the power of  Shopify's network effect and how it aids alcohol merchants in customer acquisition. 

Michael shares insights on the power of collaboration, the importance of execution, and the benefits of sharing your playbook. He also gives us a glimpse into his experience of working with large agencies and the impact it had on customer experience as he scaled his business.

So, pull up a chair, pour yourself a drink, and prepare for the blueprint on disrupting business of online alcohol.

We sit down with acclaimed Michelin-starred chef and industry legend, Geoffrey Zakarian. Geoffrey invites us into his fascinating world, sharing business insights, entertaining anecdotes, and a wealth of knowledge from his years at the Food Network and managing his own restaurant empire. You'll also get to hear about his love for wine and cocktails, and how they add that touch of magic to any dining experience.

We'll transport you to the charming and simplistic dining scenes of Italy and France, as Geoffrey shares his own experiences and perspectives, drawing parallels and teaching us the subtle art of hospitality. 

We also talk about his unique approach to guiding the customer through the daunting task of wine selection and maintaining consistency in his restaurant's presentation and service.

Grab a seat at the table and have a listen!

E-commerce and alcohol is intersecting and Blake Moore, Director of E-Com at RNDC and our guest for this episode, is here to demystify the complexities around that. Blake brings his unique understanding of the traditional three-tier system and the role of marketplaces like Instacart to the table, emphasizing on the absolute necessity of having a hefty budget for investing in the right channels. He also shares RNDC's e-commerce strategies during the trying times of the pandemic and their plans for the future.

We dive deep into the rise of B2B e-commerce and the importance of merging it with traditional e-commerce tactics for an effective omni-channel strategy. Blake emphasizes on the need to restructure team incentives to go in line with the overall sales goals. As a cherry on top, we wrap up by sharing our favorite alcohol memories and our choice of wines for a perfect evening. 

Grab a glass and tune in!