Masi, Italian wine giant, to reduce prices in Austin

About a month ago, I posted a bit of a rant about Masi wine prices. You see, they had increased their prices by about 25% across the board for vintages that were already on the shelf.

It sure struck me the wrong way. I thought it was insulting to their current customers, and they put the wine shops that sell their wine in a bad spot. If the merchants increased their retail price, folks like me might not buy the wine. If merchants keep the price the same, they do not make any money on the vintage on their shelves.

So for the past six weeks, I have done without Masi’s Campofiorin Rosso del Veronese Ripassa, but if rumors are true, it may be back at my house soon.

I hear that Masi is starting a new sales program for the Campofiorin, and its price in Austin could be soon be back down to around $14 a bottle. I am still a little disappointed that the price increased at all, but with the dollar on the downturn, it is inevitable. It is good to see an international vendor operate like a neighborhood merchant and work with his clients. This kind of effort establishes loyalty and a sense of community.

After all, things may change again, and then it will be my turn to be supportive of those that make the wine I love.