The games are far apart and the ticket prices astronomical, so while the United States gets to play co-host with Canada and Mexico to this summer’s FIFA World Cup, most of us will be watching the matches from home. Four years ago, 1.5 billion people watched the final between Argentina and France. This time should be poised to bring in even more viewers.  This year’s tournament will involve 48 teams from around the globe, the largest ever number to compete, growing from what used to be 32. That means lots of games to take in, with 12 groupings of 4 countries each kicking things off on June 11 for what is known as the Group Stage.  The United States is in Group D and will play each team in its group to qualify for the Knockout Stage. It plays Paraguay June 12 in Los Angeles; Australia June 19 in Seattle; and Turkey June 26 in Los Angeles.  Eventually, that 48 number goes down to 32 – the Knockouts start June 28. The pace quickens from there, with that Round of 32 dwindling

Spending a weekend sipping superb wines while savoring the perfect food pairing sounds like heaven. Add in breathtaking scenery and the relaxing ambiance of Sonoma County’s Wine Country, and now you have paradise perfected! This magical wine and food weekend becomes reality on November 1st and 2nd as the Wine Road hosts the 27th annual Wine & Food Affair. A Sneak Peek at the Food Pairings With 50 wineries to select from, there are too many food pairings to list, so here are just a few highlights. If you love Italian-based comfort food, check out: Mushroom and Winter Squash Risotto at Pedroncelli Winery Lobster Ravioli with Vodka Sauce at Pech Merle Winery Tatiana’s Famous Lasagna at Colagrossi Wines If you’d rather pair Mexican, French or Cajun with delicious wines, here are some options: Roger’s Colorado Pork Green Chili at J. Cage Cellars Creamy Mushroom Chicken Facon Grand Mère at GC Lurton Vineyards Alison’s Jambalaya at Mat

WineAmerica, the National Association of American Wineries, recently installed new members on its Board of Directors and discussed the outlook in Washington heading into 2023. The annual Fall Retreat, this year held at Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville, Washington on November 14-15, also included updates on the organization's membership, government affairs activities, and 2022 National Economic Impact Study. "This was an excellent and productive gathering reflective of WineAmerica's continuing evolution," said WineAmerica President Jim Trezise, who served on the organization's Board and Executive Committee for 25 years before becoming President in 2017. "The new Board members bring fresh perspectives and energy to blend with the dedication and experience of longtime Directors." The newly installed Directors, elected by the membership in October, are Michelle Kaufman of the Stoller Wine Group (OR), Edward Matovcik of Constellation Brands (NY, CA, WA),

International Experts Discuss a Reimagined Wine Industry at Wine2Wine Business Forum: At the virtual exhibition, professionals from around the globe focused their attention on inclusivity, and how transparency, empathy, and equity can transform the business of wine... The post Afternoon Brief, December 15th appeared first on Wine Industry Advisor. Url:https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2020/12/15/afternoon-brief-1759?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=afternoon-brief-1759 Published Date:Tue, 15 Dec 2020 22:48:15 +0000