Signs of the Times

This little item came into view last night (from Wines & Spirits Daily):

B-F [Brown Forman] says it has sold its Bolla and Fontana Candida Italian wine brands to Italian partner Gruppo Italiano Vini (GIV).  B-F Chief Paul Varga said the decision reflects the company's evolving portfolio strategy and its continued focus on its most profitable brands.  "We're proud of the work that our employees and partners placed behind the Italian wines, and we will certainly miss the brands," he said.

GIV is well-known in Italy for its massive output of cheap and generally ghastly supermarket wines.  I'd say Bolla has found its proper home.  GIV will doubtless adulterate Bolla wines even more for profitability's sake.  Danger, Will Robinson!

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Despite the severe economic downturn, small hand-sell wine shops in New York seem to be thriving.  Depending on location and clientele, the ceiling prices for brisk sales are $20, $25 and even $30 per bottle at retail. We hope this will last.

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On the other hand, there are signs of fraying here in NYC.

* More vacant storefronts every week.

* Fewer people in restaurants -- just 6 months ago they were packed all the time.

* A faintly perceptible uptick in crime and violence around the edges -- like the bus driver who was shot to death because he wouldn't give someone a transfer.  Unlike during the Great Depression, I predict, there will not be a spate of bank robberies.

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As for good news, there's plenty there if you have cash.  Even higher-end retailers are offering large pre-Christmas discounts on a wide range of items.  50% or greater in many cases.  People are buying the stuff up because they realize they're finally getting fair prices on otherwise ridiculously overpriced merchandise.  This, of course, will not last.




A scene from happier times..when Poppy Bush was in the House