Marvin Shanken, Publisher of Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado, Has Died
He bought a struggling industry newsletter called Wine Spectator in 1979 and turned it into one of America’s leading tastemakers. He was 83.
Marvin Shanken's passing marks the end of an era in the world of fine wine and cigars. As the publisher of Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado, he played a significant role in shaping the tastes and preferences of American connoisseurs. Under his leadership, Wine Spectator evolved from a struggling industry newsletter to a highly influential publication, widely regarded as a benchmark for wine ratings and reviews.
Shanken's impact on the wine industry cannot be overstated. His publication's ratings and reviews have been known to make or break a wine's reputation, and his endorsement has been highly sought after by winemakers and distributors. By building a loyal readership and establishing Wine Spectator as a trusted authority, Shanken helped to democratize the world of fine wine, making it more accessible to a wider audience. His legacy will likely continue to be felt in the industry for years to come.
As the wine and cigar industries mourn the loss of a pioneering figure, attention will turn to the future of Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado. Will the publications continue to evolve and adapt to changing tastes and trends, or will they remain true to the vision and values established by Shanken? Additionally, observers will be watching to see how Shanken's passing affects the broader wine and cigar industries, and whether his influence will be felt through future generations of wine enthusiasts and aficionados.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.