[BND] Kane's Beverage News Daily

Good Morning and Happy Friday, July 17, 2026.

Bankruptcy Will Solve Uncle Nearest's Problems

Uncle Nearest Inc. is headed for bankruptcy court. To be sure, Phillip Young, the court-appointed receiver who is running the company, hasn't filed the papers to start the process – yet.

But he has said the company still can't pay its bills, and the company owes more than $208 million with more than $121 of the amount owed to Farm Credit Mid-America, which has sued, saying Uncle Nearest and its founders defaulted on $108 million in loans and accrued interest. About $87 million is owed to other

Why 11-11 Winery's Sales Are Up

Ellie Anest, the co-founder and CEO of Eleven Eleven Winery, is having a good year. In an "expert editorial" in Wine Industry Advisor she ticks off the numbers: * More than half of everyone who walks through doors joins the wine club. * First time visitors are up 61% year-over-year. * Average order value is up 31%. * Club member purchases are up 117%. Those are plainly the metrics of a successful winery. She believes they are not the metrics of an industry in freefall, (We agree, but no on

Maison Pommery Like-for-Like Revenue Up 0.6% in 1st Half

Maison Pommery & Associés reported that, on a like-for-like basis, revenue increased 0.6%, with the Champagne business recording higher sales volumes to customers, demonstrating the continued strength of the Group’s commercial momentum and the appeal of its strategic brands. The disposal of Heidsieck & Co Monopole resulted in consolidated revenue falling to €95.7 million, from €109.3 million in the first half of 2025. This decrease represented an impact of €9.6 million, and to the reduction in

Silver Oak Cellars Debuts Sauvignon Blanc

Silver Oak Cellars, which made its reputation over the last five decades as a top producer of Cabernet Sauvignon, has debuted its first new varietal, Silver Oak Sauvignon Blanc. This marks a significant evolution for the historic Cabernet house, expanding its portfolio while honoring the same commitment to quality, site expression, and craftsmanship that has defined the brand since 1972. Long synonymous with American Cabernet Sauvignon, Silver Oak now brings its winemaking expertise to a new v

Empson USA Adds Its First 5 French Wines

Empson USA said it inroduced its first collection of family-owned French estates, further strengthening its position as a leading importer of the world’s finest wines. The new partnerships, including Château Kirwan (Margaux), Château Malescasse (Haut-Médoc), Château Franc Mayne (Saint-Émilion), Maison de la Chapelle (Burgundy), and Champagne Gérin & Fils, share the values that have long defined Empson USA’s portfolio: authenticity, exceptional terroir, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Gloria Ferrer Marks 40 Years

Gloria Ferrer, Founded by José Ferrer as a tribute to his wife Gloria, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Gloria Ferrer, the first sparkling wine estate in the Los Carneros AVA, helped establish California as a world-class region for traditional-method sparkling wine that reflects not only the style but region while continuing to shape the category’s future through innovation, sustainability, and an unwavering commitment to quality. “Gloria’s vision for this estate continues to inspire ever

Colorado Assn. for Viticulture & Enology Launches Nationwide Search for Next Executive Director

Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE) has officially launched a nationwide search for its next Executive Director, seeking an experienced and visionary leader to guide Colorado’s wine industry into its next chapter. Executive Director Cassidee Shull announced that she will conclude her nearly 15 years of service with the organization on October 31, 2026. Shull will continue serving through the transition to ensure continuity of leadership and support the successful onboarding of

WSWA Lists State Legislative Gains

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America in a mid-year review tallied its legislative work in the states. Alcohol Shipping – Fewer shipping bills were introduced and none have been enacted thus far. With most statees permitting wine DTC, Missourii, New Hampshire and New Jersey introduced bills to increase wine shipping limits per customer; only New Jersey's remain pending. No standalone common carrier reporting bills were introduced this year. WSWA strongly supports such bills.

Thanks for reading. I'll be back tomorrow. – Joel