Heard about Mondavi?

[dananne]

Agree about the lack of a wine culture in America, but also agree with the impact of the lack of access for small quality producers. It's hard to break into the stranglehold of the KJs, the cheap Aussies, etc. when you can't get your wines out there because of the distribution process. Lets face it: something like 90% of all wines purchased in America are bought within 24 hours of being consumed, and most are purchased in grocery stores, state ABC-type stores, or general supply liquer stores. I mostly see the mass-marketed crap at those places, which is why I don't do much shopping there. I'll spend the extra time trying to find things, but for most Americans, they lack the time or patience to exercise that choice. They buy what's in front of them on the shelves. Put more options on those shelves, and it'd help the education process. Just my humble .02.