Newly combined technology providers, Encompass Technologies + Orchestra Software announced that they have acquired Denver-based alcohol delivery startup Handoff. This acquisition furthers the company’s mission to digitally connect all tiers of the beverage industry, from first ingredients to last sip.

The popular Wine Lovers' Advent Calendar is returning nationwide for its third year, after selling out within weeks both years prior. Available from Direct Wines Inc., South Norwalk, Conn., the Wine Lovers’ Advent Calendar contains 24 187-ml bottles of wine.

For wineries and independent craft spirit and beer producers, taprooms, tasting rooms and tours have long encouraged trial and experimentation, helping these entrepreneurs become beacons of community and camaraderie. Yet, to drive sales during the past six months, beverage brands have been forced to pivot and use other avenues such as eCommerce and direct-to-consumer (DTC) shipping with overall positive results.

Napa, Calif.-based Wine Ambassadors launched its Fine Wine Club, a multi-level marketing program whereby women and men who love their vino can get paid to share fine wines from the Napa and Sonoma regions of California. The venture is the brainchild of a group of Napa Valley entrepreneurs that includes winemakers, a vineyard owner, a cheesemaker and marketers. 

Proprietor August Sebastiani debuted a reserve line of Gehricke Wines through its first direct-to-consumer (DTC) program, featuring three small production, single vineyard wines from top sites in Sonoma County.

Lonerider Spirits, Holly Springs, N.C., launched a monthly subscription box named the “Bundled Bourbon Box” that focuses exclusively on cocktails made with bourbon.