Any hardcore Long Islander instantly recognizes the line, “A bottle of white, a bottle of red, perhaps a bottle of rosé instead,” as the opening of Billy Joel’s classic Scenes from an Italian Restaurant.

Now, what’s your preference? Your server might ask you to be more specific. Once you settle on a color, your choice will likely come from one of the “Big Six” wine varieties. For whites, it’s Chardonnay, Riesling, or Sauvignon Blanc; for reds, Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah/Shiraz. Or perhaps you’ll opt for something in between—a pink rosé.

Consumer trends can guide your selection if you lean toward a particular brand. According to 2024 sales figures, Barefoot led the table wine market with $555 million in sales, followed by Josh Cellars at $499 million and Sutter Home at $404 million.

Ever wonder how your wine makes its way from a vineyard in Napa Valley, Bordeaux, or elsewhere to your table? It likely traveled through one of the nation’s top wine distributors, which serve specific state territories. In New York, for example, Empire Merchants, based in Brooklyn, is a leading distributor of spirits, wines, and other beverages to restaurants, bars, hotels, and retail outlets. Ranked 9th on Wine & Vines’ list of top U.S. distributors, Empire Merchants plays a significant role in bringing your bottle to your glass.

For connoisseurs seeking the finest wines from France, Italy, Spain, or Argentina, Frederick Wildman and Sons—a New York-based firm—might have been the distributor ensuring those exceptional vintages reached your table.

Sharing wine with loved ones often leads to rich camaraderie and conversation. But if the wine ever runs out, take heart! Remember the saving grace of Jesus Christ at the wedding in Cana. His first miracle assured that the celebration continued, turning water into wine.

This Sunday, January 19, we’ll reflect on this beloved Gospel story during our 9:30 AM worship service (please see the attached bulletin). Join us at St. John’s as we also celebrate Holy Communion—the moment when wine turns into the Blood of Christ. Let’s gather “in our old familiar place, you and I, face to face.”

Blessings,

Pastor Marc