Wine Business Journal

The mission of the Wine Business Journal (WBJ) is to advance wine business theory, teaching, and practice through the generation, cumulation, and dissemination of knowledge with strong practical and theoretical implications. About WBJ >>

Current Issues 2023/24

Porter, S. M. (2024). Decoding the Italian Wine Market: A Quantitative Macro-Economic Examination of Price and Expert Rating Influences.

Abstract:

This quantitative analysis explores the key determinants affecting the price per bottle and expert ratings within the Italian wine market. It posits that collective reputation, as signified by Geographic Indicators (GIs), Protected Designation of Origin (PDOs), and certification, primarily drive these factors. The study presents a comprehensive contextual backdrop and literature review to address this hypothesis. This conceptual overview is followed by a novel research design, incorporating significant elements influencing wine pricing and expert evaluations. The investigation employs dual multivariate regression models, thereby corroborating and enriching existing literature on the impact of collective reputation in the wine industry. Key findings reveal that PDO ratings and specific certifications such as classico, riserva, millesimato, or organic production significantly influence Italian wines' price and expert ratings. The analysis further quantifies these impacts, suggesting that specific certifications can predict notable increases in wine prices and expert evaluations, underlining the importance of geographic origin and diverse certifications in shaping the market dynamics of the Italian wine industry.

Marbach, C., Botezatu, A., & Hall, C. (2024). Exploring the impact of phonetic pronunciation guides on wine choice and perceived sophistication.

Abstract:

This study delves into an often-overlooked aspect of wine consumer decision-making – the desire to appear knowledgeable in social settings. Focusing on Texas wines, which are often less well known and more intimidating to say aloud, an exploratory survey examined the impact of phonetic guides on respondents’ choice of wine off a menu. Analysis through nominal logistic regression revealed the presence of phonetic guides as the most significant predictor, suggesting consumers feel pressure to appear knowledgeable or sophisticated. Respondents who were provided menus with phonetic spellings were more inclined to choose wines with intimidating names. The inclusion of phonetic spellings not only reduced the perceived risk in ordering the wine but also served an educational role. By recognizing the influence of social factors, such as a consumer’s perceived sophistication, this study recommends establishments enhance menus with phonetic guides to empower consumers in making confident, informed choices.

Martínez-Falcó, J., Marco-Lajara, B., Zaragoza-Sáez, P., & Ruiz-Fernández, L. (2023). Impact of Green Intellectual Capital on Sustainable Development Goals: Insights from Spain’s Wine Industry.

Abstract:

This study seeks to explore the multifaceted impacts of the Green Intellectual Capital (GIC) within viticulture enterprises on the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This endeavor holds significant academic value, as, to the best of our understanding, no prior investigations have delved into this specific correlation. The impetus for this inquiry is rooted in two foundational beliefs: firstly, that an enhanced GIC equips firms with the tools to more effectively navigate environmental hurdles; and secondly, that GIC serves as a transformative agent within entities, fostering enriched knowledge acquisition. To methodically address the stipulated aim, a qualitative methodology was employed, underpinned by a singular case study. The findings underscore the instrumental role of the three facets of GIC—Green Human Capital, Green Structural Capital, and Green Relational Capital—in facilitating the attainment of SDGs 3,
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, and 17.

Volume 5, Special Issue 1

The 'Ron Rubin Leading Through Innovation' Special Issue

A winery showing a path leading to the building with grape vines to the left.

The ‘Ron Rubin Leading through Innovation’ special issue was created by the Wine Business Journal to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Wine Business Institute at SSU. This special issue is focused on innovation in the wine industry, including the various forms it takes, and how it manifests itself across the different sectors in which the wine industry operates, including: hospitality, sales, tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture. Read Full Story >>