The Wine Economist

Affordabiity and Eric Asimov’s Search for Great Wine Values

Eric Asimov’s recent New York Times column revisits his long‑standing $15‑$20 wine‑value sweet spot, noting that inflation, tariffs and premiumization have pushed that range up to $20‑$30 by 2026. The piece highlights how rising fuel costs, higher interest rates and supply‑chain pressures are squeezing consumer budgets and forcing wine producers to rethink pricing. Asimov argues that true value now lies in discovering lesser‑known regions and producers rather than chasing the cheapest label. The article frames wine affordability as a microcosm of broader economic value concerns.