US wine sales top France for first time ever

[Geee]

UK Telegraph:


However, in terms of per capita consumption, the French still are well ahead at an average 12.2 gallons (46 litres) per year compared to 2.6 gallons (9.8 litres) for the U.S.

Still, many in the industry saw the figures, released this week by the San Francisco-based Wine Institute, as an important step.
"It's exciting," said Stephanie Gallo, vice president of marketing for Modesto-based Gallo Family Vineyards.

"It's great for the industry and it's great for a whole host of reasons."

Why now? Part of the story is that as U.S. per capita consumption has risen, French consumption has fallen. In fact, U.S. wine consumption continued to grow during the recession, though many consumers switched to cheaper wines.

[clearvision]

Good work Pepper, NCTexan, Righteousmomma, Rheo and Ghost

[NCTexan]

However, in terms of per capita consumption, the French still are well ahead at an average 12.2 gallons (46 litres) per year compared to 2.6 gallons (9.8 litres) for the U.S.

This reminds me of a favorite "Frenchism"...

 

We were sitting in a Paris restaurant next to a table with several French and several Japanese businessmen. They were speaking English so of course we were evesdropping.

 

One of the Japanese asked if it was a problem driving back with all the alcohol that they'd consumed.

 

One of the Frenchmen laughed, looked at his buddy, and said... "Ce n'est pas alcool, il est seulement le vin!"

[Ghost]

and I am guessing the percapita figure includes children which really ups the consumption numbers for those who do partake

[Ghost]

Good work Pepper, NCTexan, Righteousmomma, Rheo and Ghost

 

 

Thank you sir. I always try to do my share to make sure our numbers look good against foreign competition

[righteousmomma]

Well, clear, we try to do our part to help the economy.

 

Btw a little known fact.. America saved the French wine and Denison/Sherman Texas saved the cognac industry.

(of course we also kinda caused the wine problem too)

 

Just a fast google search found this article that explains the cause and effect of the little wine pest.

(Not vouching for its accuracy but sounds good though I had read a slightly different take on the blight and the vine grafting years ago)

 

http://wampumkeeper.com/wineblight.html

[Pepper]

 

Thank you! We take a small pride in being acknowledged for our efforts. It is time consuming difficult work, but it has to be done.

 

 

Good work Pepper, NCTexan, Righteousmomma, Rheo and Ghost

[righteousmomma]

"Thank you! We take a small pride in being acknowledged for our efforts. It is time consuming difficult work, but it has to be done."

 

And somebody has to do it.