12/19/2023
I haven't even an idea of how I'm going to phrase this, except to just let it flow. Usually I write with a plan, but my heart is still trying to grasp what my head has had 19 hours to process. Bear with me, the feelings are raw.
Traveling Vineyard is no more.
There is never just one reason something changes & Rick Libby did everything he could to keep it going for as long as he did. This is by no way a failure. This company existed for 13 years under his guidance after he purchased it from bankruptcy. So, to keep a dream going for over a decade, especially at the level he did, is a tremendous success.
But several factors started to impact the business, any one of which probably could have been overcome; but, as a . Of course, the pandemic played a huge part, but so did human greed. Consultants who exploit generous home party companies (and TV was one of the greatest) eventually force the hands of management. The economy surely also influenced shopping trends that complicated matters.
Unfortunately, this means that the tastings I postponed due to illness can not happen & any hosts who did not close parties have lost their chance. For that, I'm sorry.
Rick Libby doesn't give up easily, so this was not a decision made without great contemplation, especially for us, the Wine Guides. He already has plans, they just cannot, for the foreseeable future, include us. For those who love our sweet wines, watch for the launch of the Fissata Wine Company, where you'll find Double Date, as well as both versions of Fissata....and possibly some other sweets as it gets established. I'll be jumping on as an affiliate, so those who want their sweet wines can shop & I'll get a little something. While it won't be anything like TV, I still remain loyal to the owner who was the same to us for as long as he possibly could.
As for this page, it will remain quiet for a bit as I process this loss, but I'm thinking the UnWine with &rea idea will become where I move forward with my cooking with wine ideas with which some of you have already become familiar. And, of course, I'll be supporting local wineries such as Bouchette & looking to visit other PA wineries (who wants to join me?) as well as shop the PA Farm Show wine vendors!
Meanwhile, there is a matter of current inventory. If you like deals & can use some other wines, the warehouse is on sale. Specifically, anything not moving to the new business, is 25% off. I've already placed my order, of course, so now you can pick through what remains. I just learned I will make a small affiliate commission if you do. One last chance to help me out.
Stack your racks at a discount before it's gone: MyTTV.com/UnWinewithAndrea
And if you know where I can get a good Malvasia, don't hold out on me. It's still my favorite varietal...and now I need a new supplier!
