Episode 53: Paul Chevalier on How To Create A Global Wine Brand by

In this episode of the Wine Whiskey Weed Podcast, Sid Patel is joined by Lulie Halstead, the founder of Wine Intelligence, to discuss the future of the wine industry and how wineries should prepare for 2025. They dive into key trends, including evolving consumer preferences, sustainability, alternative beverages, and innovative marketing strategies. Lulie shares her expert insights on how wineries can adapt to shifting market dynamics and position themselves for success in the coming years. If you're a winery owner, marketer, or industry professional, tune into this episode packed with actionable advice to help you navigate the future of wine.

In this episode of the Wine Whiskey Weed Podcast, Sid Patel sits down with Martin Reid, co-founder of The Gin Cooperative, to explore the future of Scottish gin. From understanding what sets Scottish gin apart to discussing trends, innovative techniques, and sustainability in gin production, this episode dives deep into the strategies that are shaping the global market for craft gin. Whether you’re a brand owner, distributor, or spirits enthusiast, in this podcast you’ll gain actionable insights on how to thrive in the evolving gin industry. Tune in to learn what the future holds for Scottish gin and the exciting opportunities ahead!

In this episode of the Wine Whiskey Weed Show, host Sid Patel returns with a deep dive into the world of beverage business growth, featuring special guest Ian Perez, Brand Execution Manager, and MaryAnn Pisani, Chief Revenue Officer, from MHW Ltd. Sid and Ian discuss the entire commercialization process, breaking it down into key stages like product development, production, and sales distribution, offering invaluable insights for entrepreneurs looking to bring beverage brands to market. Ian and MaryAnn shares essential checklists for each stage and explains how MHW, a leader in the U.S. drinks industry, now provides services for brand development—from market analysis to practical steps for a successful launch. Sid also adds his own experiences with building beverage brands, making this episode a practical guide for anyone in the industry.

In this episode of the Wine Whiskey Weed Show, Sid Patel speaks with Matthew Citriglia, Director of Education at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, to discuss how hospitality and education form the backbone of successful sales strategies. Learn how to train a strong sales team, the consultative approach to selling, and insights into regional trends that can boost sales. This episode is a must-listen for brand owners, distributors, and sales professionals in the beverage industry.

In this video, we chat with Jessica Kogan, Chief Growth & Experience Officer at Vintage Wine Estates, one of the true digital marketing icons of the drinks industry who built the Cameron Hughes Wine, a digital native business that she co-founded.

Philip James is the founder and CEO of Firstleaf, one of the largest wineries in the US, producing wines from around the world and selling them directly to hundreds of thousands of consumers. Philip is a serial entrepreneur who has built a career combining cutting-edge technology, consumer insights, and the talents of world-class winemakers to create and deliver finely crafted wines at affordable prices, with online sales of over $500 million to date.

In this insightful video, join Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, as he engages in a captivating conversation with Master of Wine, Peter Marks. With a wealth of experience in the wine industry as a professional and educator, Peter, the Vice President and Partner at Napa Valley Wine Academy delves into the vital role of education in the wine business. Discover valuable insights as Peter sheds light on the essential skills worth pursuing for those embarking on a journey in the wine industry, as well as the skills that seasoned professionals can add to enhance their expertise. Learn how wine education plays a crucial role in driving sales and the prerequisites for a successful education path. If you are passionate about wine and eager to gain knowledge from a true industry expert, this video is a must-watch! Don't miss out on the opportunity to expand your understanding of the wine business and take your passion to new heights.

Discover the fascinating world of beverage de-alcoholization with Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, in this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of BevZero's state-of-the-art facility. Join Sid as he engages in an insightful conversation with Matthew Hughes, Director of US Operations at BevZero, unraveling the scientific process behind de-alcoholization. In this captivating podcast, Matthew guides you through the facility, offering a close-up look at the meticulous process of storing and distilling wines to eliminate alcohol content. Gain a comprehensive understanding of how BevZero's innovative techniques ensure the preservation of flavor while reducing alcohol levels. Witness firsthand as the wines are carefully stored back in the tanks, ready to delight discerning palates. Unlock the secrets of de-alcoholization in the beverage industry and gain valuable insights from industry experts. Don't miss out on this informative and visually stunning exploration of BevZero's facility, where science and craftsmanship converge to redefine the art of producing exceptional alcohol-free beverages.

In this insightful discussion, Sid and Todd delve into the intricate workings of the wine brokerage business. Discover how suppliers can identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities within the market while staying ahead of industry trends. Todd, drawing from his extensive experience as a bulk wine broker, shares valuable insights into the operations of CIATTI, the leading bulk wine broking company. Gain exclusive knowledge about the types of customers that CIATTI deals with, providing you with a unique perspective on the industry's largest players. If you're considering to enter the world of bulk wine and eager to explore the realm of wine brokerage, this video is a must-watch. Todd, in this engaging conversation uncovers the secrets and strategies behind successful wine brokerage. Enhance your understanding of the market, gain valuable insights, and take your wine business to new heights.

Join Ankita Okate, Chief Growth Officer at Beverage Trade Network, as she sits down with Jacob Lovell-Hewitt, Bar Manager at Publiq, for an insightful conversation. In this engaging podcast, Jake shares his expertise and gives us a glimpse into the dynamic world of bar management. He sheds light on his role as a Bar Manager and discusses the intricacies of running a successful bar station. From managing the team to coordinating with various suppliers, Jake reveals the behind-the-scenes operations that contribute to a memorable bar experience.

Join Ankita Okate, Chief Growth Officer at Beverage Trade Network, as she takes you inside the prestigious 67 Pall Mall. Ankita engages in a fascinating conversation with Federico Moccia, the Head Sommelier at 67 Pall Mall, where they delve into the interesting world of a sommelier in a distinguished wine club. In this discussion, Federico unveils the intricacies of his role as a head sommelier within the unique setting of a wine club. Contrasting with the traditional restaurant or hotel environment, Federico explains the distinctive nature of catering to club members who become regulars, fostering deep relationships with them. As these members are wine connoisseurs themselves, Federico shares his insights on satisfying their curiosity by providing in-depth knowledge about new wine regions and countries to explore. At the forefront of his responsibilities, Federico ensures that his team at 67 Pall Mall meets the impeccable standards set by the establishment. Consistency in service, relationships, and quality are of paramount importance in creating an exceptional experience for the discerning members. Federico also offers a glimpse into his craft of curating the extensive wine list at 67 Pall Mall, and how to ensure the profitability of the wine list. From seeking out value-for-money wines with excellent aging potential to selecting seasonal offerings that harmonize with the chef's culinary creations.

Join Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, in an insightful conversation with Nate Azark, Founder & Creative Director at 12 Line Studio, as they delve into the fascinating world of branding and packaging for beverage brands. In this captivating discussion, Nate shares his expertise on the intricate process of creating a design system that harmoniously aligns with the personality of a brand, captivating consumers and leaving a lasting impression. Nate explains about the crucial elements involved in developing a brand identity, such as color palettes, typography, and graphic elements, and how they can profoundly influence consumer perception. Nate sheds light on the importance of understanding a brand's personality, values, and positioning to create a cohesive design system that effectively communicates the desired message. Whether you're an aspiring beverage brand owner, a marketing enthusiast, or simply curious about the intricacies of branding and packaging, this conversation offers invaluable insights and practical advice for building a strong visual presence in the competitive market. Don't miss this engaging conversation, where Sid Patel and Nate Azark delve into the fascinating process of branding and packaging, unveiling the secrets behind captivating consumers with visually striking designs that bring beverage brands to life.

Join Sid Patel on an exclusive tour of The Stafford Hotel's wine cellar, one of London's most iconic hotels with a long history. Located at the heart of St. James's Street and surrounded by historic landmarks, this video gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how the cellar is managed at The Stafford. In this Podcast, Sid chats with Eugenio Egorov, Head Sommelier and Wine Buyer at The Stafford London, about how he manages the hotel's impressive wine cellar and what makes the inventory management different from regular wine storage. Eugenio shares his expertise and insights into customer experience and how The Stafford manages its wine and food offerings. He talks about the revenue breakups and how the hotel balances its inventory between old-world and new-world wines. In addition, Sid and Eugenio discuss how The Stafford sources its wines and how the team ensures that the wine selection meets the needs and preferences of its diverse clientele. This informative and engaging video provides an inside look at the world of wine at The Stafford Hotel. Join Sid and Eugenio as they take you through the iconic hotel's wine cellar and share their expert insights into the art of wine selection, management, and service. Tune in and discover what makes The Stafford one of London's most unique experiences for wine lovers!

In this Podcast, join Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, and Ramiro Fernandez, Head Sommelier and Wine Buyer at Galvin La Chapelle, as they dive into the business of wine sales in restaurants and explore how Galvin La Chapelle has designed its wine program. Whether you're a restaurant owner, sommelier, manager, or simply interested in the industry, you'll learn valuable insights and strategies that can help you boost your wine sales and increase your profits.

As a beverage brand, expanding your reach into a global market can be a daunting task. That's where an export agency comes in; they can help you navigate the complexities of international trade and connect you with new markets to sell your products. In this Podcast, Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, is in a conversation with Thomas Guerrier, Business Development Specialist - Wine, Beer and Spirits for Business France. He helps you understand the ways in which an export agency can help beverage brands sell globally, whether you're a small start-up or a well-established brand. ***About Thomas Guerrier*** Business Development Specialist - Wine, Beer and Spirits - Business France

If you're curious about how restaurant chains source their beverages, this Podcast is for you. In this informative episode, Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, takes you inside River Roast, one of the restaurants by Levy Restaurants. He is in conversation with Rachael Lowe, Director of Beverage Operations for Levy Restaurants. Rachael explains the procurement process for beverages in restaurants, from choosing the right products to negotiating prices and contracts. She also explains how the beverages are selected and provides insights into managing inventory and building successful supplier relationships. Whether you're a restaurant owner, manager, or wine director, you won't want to miss this informative video about the beverage procurement in restaurant chains. So grab a glass of your favorite libation and join us for this fascinating look behind the scenes of the restaurant industry. ***About Rachael Lowe*** Director of Beverage Operations at Levy Restaurants Rachael Lowe passed the advanced sommelier degree from the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2009 with a top score that earned her a Rudd Scholarship. She was the 2010 Jean Banchet Top Sommelier, 2011 Star Chef Rising Star Sommelier and 2016 Food & Wine Sommelier of the Year. In addition to such merit, she won the top prize at the Ruinart Chardonnay competition hosted by Ruinart and the Guild of Sommeliers in 2010 Lowe served as Sommelier at the Michelin-rated Bouchon, a French bistro in Yountville, CA, under the direction of The Thomas Keller Restaurant Group. Prior to her time there, she spent more than four years as Sommelier for several fine-dining venues throughout New York City, including Café Gray, the Mandarin Oriental and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay inside The London NYC hotel. Upon moving to Chicago Lowe served as Director of Wine and Spirits at the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, where she oversaw all wine and beverage management, which included Sixteen, the hotel’s signature fine-dining restaurant, Rebar, the Terrace at Trump, and all catering and in-room dining. She then took over as Wine Director at both Naha, a Michelin-starred Mediterranean restaurant, as well as the companies French based sister restaurant, Brindille. Six years ago Lowe took the position as Director of Beverage for Spiaggia, where she oversees the restaurant, Café and private dining events.

In this Podcast, Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, takes you on a behind-the-scenes journey into the business of managing Mainstreet Wines & Spirits. He is in a conversation with the store's wine director, Nancy Sabatini, where they chat on a range of topics, from inventory management to marketing strategies. Nancy discusses all aspects of the business and provides insights into what it takes to succeed in this industry. Whether you're a current wine & spirits store owner looking to increase profits or someone interested in opening a store, this video is a must-watch. ***About Nancy Sabatini*** She is passionate about all things connected with wine. Nancy has been called a "wine geek," and rightfully so! Agreeing with Matt Kramer from Wine Spectator... "Though we may not necessarily think of it this way, a really good wine retailer is actually as much a 'sommelier' as anyone who glides to your table with a wine list in hand. Now, by saying a really good retailer I'm not talking about just anyone who happens to sell wine. You want, well, a geek. Somebody who's just a little nuts about wine, who regularly offers wines that you've never heard of or tried." This is the model she has instilled in every one of her wine positions.

Wholesalers and distributors in the Wine and Spirits industry are a critical part of the supply chain. They are responsible for connecting suppliers with a wider audience of customers. As a wholesaler and distributor, one is operating with a massive amount of SKUs, which comes with its own set of challenges in running a business at such a scale. In this exciting Podcast of Inside The Drinks Business, Sid Patel takes you on a tour of Maverick Wine Company, where he chats with the Director of Sales & Portfolio Manager, Ian Louisignau. Ian lays out their role in the wine and spirits world, how they operate, what kind of suppliers they are looking for, and how suppliers can partner with them.

It is widely known that data currently drives almost every element of business. And when it comes to driving sales, it's a priceless asset. According to research, businesses that use data in their sales strategy are 5 to 6% more profitable than their rivals. In this Podcast, Sid Patel, CEO of Beverage Trade Network, is in conversation with Scott Scanlon, Executive Vice President at IRi. Here Scott highlights the trends in the alcohol beverage industry and talks about how data can help brands that are operating in the beverage industry.