The wine and spirits industry is standing on the precipice of a major design evolution. For years, “premium” was defined by weight, excess, and tradition. For 2026, a new definition of luxury is emerging; one that values intelligence over mass, and tactile storytelling over simple visual appeal. For brand owners and procurement leaders, staying ahead of these glass packaging trends in 2026 is no longer just about aesthetics; it is a matter of strategic survival. From the rise of “quiet luxury” and right-weighted glass to the complex pressures of global supply chains, the packaging decisions made today will define brand resilience tomorrow. In this forecast, we explore how sustainable luxury, ergonomic innovation, and smart supply chain strategies are reshaping the premium landscape, and how Global Package provides the specialized glass solutions needed to help you navigate this future. The State of Glass Packaging for Wine & Spirits At Global Package, we&r

Declining groundwater levels and increasing pressure under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act are changing how California wine growers think about water. What was once largely an operational concern is now directly tied to long-term viability, regulatory compliance, and sustainability planning. These issues were front and center during a session at the 2025 WIN Expo, where vineyard operators, hydrologists, and county leaders discussed how groundwater management is evolving and what growers can do to stay ahead. Moderated by Val King, Director of Channel Partnerships at Verdi, the session underscored a clear reality. There is no single solution, but there is a shift toward local control, better data, and practical changes in vineyard management. SGMA Was Built to Be Local, Not One-Size-Fits-All Your browser does not support HTML5 video. SGMA is often misunderstood as a rigid, top-down mandate. In reality, it was designed around California’s variability in geology, climate

This year’s Sustainable Ag Expo packs serious value for your professional development. Whether you’re earning DPR or CCA hours (or both!), we’ve got you covered with a mix of in-person and on-demand sessions designed to fit your schedule. Total CE Hours Available: 13 Online Courses - open through November 28, 202511.5 DPR (incl. 3 L) 13.5 CCA 16 In-Person Seminars - November 11-12 in San Luis Obispo7.5 DPR (incl. 1 L) 17 CCA Proactive Steps for Complying with CA Pesticide Laws and Regulations Tuesday, Nov. 12 | 3:30–4:30 PM Speaker: Mel Graham, County of San Luis Obispo Department of Agriculture Get practical guidance for staying compliant with California’s pesticide use requirements. Learn about common violations, how to avoid them, and what’s coming in 2025 and 2026. Calibration of Vineyard Sprayers Online | Oct. 13-Nov. 28 Speaker: Dr. Andrew Landers, Professor Emeritus, Cornell University Fine-tune your spray precision!

This November, growers and agricultural professionals will gather in San Luis Obispo for the 2025 Sustainable Ag Expo, an event designed to foster innovation, provide high-impact education, and create meaningful connections across the wine and agricultural industries. When/Where: Kick-Off Event - Monday, November 10, 5:00-7:00 pm  |  at Center of Effort Winery Trade Show & Seminars - Tuesday, November 11 & Wednesday, November 12, 7:00 am-5:00 pm  |  at Madonna Expo Center What to Expect The 2025 program offers a robust lineup of content focused on critical topics like climate resilience, automation, and workforce development, with 17 in-person seminars offering 20+ hours of CE credit. Two-day ticket holders also receive access to 13 online courses with an additional 10+ CE hours available from October 13–November 28. Even More Opportunities to Connect and Learn Kick-Off Event: The event begins with a special Monday Night Kick-Off hosted at Cen

A case study on using irrigation automation to conserve water, cut energy use, and elevate vineyard performance.  CHANDON has consistently demonstrated innovation in environmental practices, resource efficiency, and community engagement, setting a new benchmark for sustainable viticulture. The California Green Medal Awards were established in 2014 to recognize vineyards and wineries that lead the industry in the areas of environment, economic development and social equity.  As we all work towards a more sustainable future of agriculture, this recognition highlights the effort of vintners and winegrape growers striving to protect the environment and enrich the community. CHANDON’s 2025 California Green Medal Environment Award CHANDON’s Carneros vineyards are irrigated using a combination of surface water and reclaimed water sourced from the City of Sonoma, while the Yountville site relies primarily on recycled water from the winery’s own wastewater tr

Big Ideas. Bold Solutions. We’re excited to welcome Dr. Chris Chen as the headliner for the Sustainable Ag Expo! Known for turning research into action, Dr. Chen will share practical, climate-smart solutions to help growers adapt, innovate, and lead in a changing environment. This is a must-attend for anyone ready to future-proof their vineyard. About Dr. Chen: Dr. Chris Chen is a trailblazer in climate-adaptive viticulture, serving California’s North Coast through the UC Cooperative Extension. With a Ph.D. in Horticulture and Agronomy from UC Davis, he empowers vineyards to thrive amid climate change with cutting-edge, science-driven strategies that champion both resilience and sustainability. Don't miss Dr. Chen's sessions: Mon., Nov. 10  |  5:00-6:00 pm  |  Farming for the Future: Climate-Resilient Vineyard Practices* Tues., Nov 11  |  8:00-9:00 am  |  Soil Carbon in Practice: Monitor, Test, & Improve Tues., Nov 11&nb

Neil FosterSANTA ROSA, CA: January 15, 2025 – M. A. SILVA, a global leader in the cork industry, announced today that Neil Foster will retire from M. A. Silva USA. Since its establishment in 2000, M. A. Silva USA has become a leading provider of premium corks, glass, and packaging for the North American wine industry. Foster, alongside his long-time partner, the Silva family of Portugal, has built a company renowned for its quality, customer service, and sustainability. With Neil Foster’s planned retirement, the Silva family will assume full management of M. A. Silva USA, ensuring continuity in the company’s commitment to its customers and employees. “The Silva family has been an integral part of this journey from the beginning,” said Foster. “Their leadership and our shared values will continue to uphold the standards and relationships that have made M.A. Silva USA a trusted name in the industry.” “The transition reinforces M. A. Silva&r