In this episode of French Insider, Swiss-American winemaker Jean Hoefliger joins host Karl Buhler to discuss the latest trends, challenges and global shifts shaping the U.S. wine market. They explore everything from champagne's continued popularity and Napa's reputation to French investment influences and the evolving business models behind American wineries.

Discussion Topics

• Status of the U.S. wine market today

• How the industry is still feeling the aftershocks of COVID-19, from production to sales channels

• U.S. wine's standing in the global market

• Napa Valley's unique place in the U.S. and international wine markets

• Winery valuation and current trends in bottle sales

• Why champagne continues to trend and remain so desirable among American consumers

• What's drawing French investors and wine houses to the U.S. market, and the impact they are having on production, branding and vineyard practices

• Recent collaborations between French investors and American winemakers, and what both sides are learning from each other

• The biggest challenges and opportunities that wineries, importers and investors face in the coming years

• Will new drinking habits persist, or could the industry reinvent itself again

About Karl Buhler

As an associate with the Corporate and Securities Practice Group and French Desk in Sheppard Mullin's New York Office, Karl Buhler focuses on domestic and cross-border transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and complex commercial agreements in industries such as technology, communications, life sciences, energy, defense and aerospace. In particular, he advises foreign companies with the installation and development of their operations in the United States.

About Jean Hoefliger

Born in Switzerland, Jean Hoefliger worked in vineyards and wineries throughout the world before landing in Napa Valley in 2001. After working for 15 years as a winemaker, he switched to consulting, and today has consulted with over 25 brands spanning the globe—from California, Oregon and Washington to Italy, Switzerland, and Australia.

Contact Information

Jean Hoefliger

Karl Buhler

Additional Resources

JH Wine Consulting

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