Meghan Markle recently launched American Riviera Orchard, which at first glance appears to focus on artisanal jams and dog biscuits.
However, there is speculation that these products are merely the beginning and not the primary focus of her new brand. Rumors suggest that Meghan's foray into the world of preserves and pet treats might be a clever diversion, with insiders indicating that her true aim lies in the lucrative market of adult beverages.
Meghan's passion for wine is well-documented. Her former lifestyle blog, The Tig, was named after her favorite wine, Tignanello. It comes as no surprise that the first significant product from American Riviera Orchard (ARO) is rumored to be a rosé wine. The Daily Mail reports that Meghan plans to release not just wine, but a range of products related to hosting and entertaining. These might include serveware, bar essentials, and other upscale items. This move aligns with the current trend of celebrities launching their own wine labels and other alcoholic beverages.
The choice of rosé, as opposed to red wine, might have sentimental roots. The Daily Mail speculates that rosé was Meghan's drink of choice on her first date with Prince Harry. This personal connection could be a strategic marketing approach to add a romantic narrative to her brand. Interestingly, some royal fans have noted similarities between Meghan's potential wine venture and that of Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, a former supermodel and singer-songwriter who married former French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Bruni-Sarkozy launched her own rosé wine in March 2020, highlighting the time and dedication required to produce a distinctive product.
It is speculated that Meghan might not have the patience or willingness to invest years into creating a unique wine. Instead, she may opt for a quicker route by rebranding an existing product. While the idea of Meghan entering the wine business is intriguing, it comes with its challenges. Carla Bruni-Sarkozy had a successful career and a strong public image to leverage for her wine brand. Meghan, on the other hand, faces skepticism and scrutiny at every turn. The comparison between Meghan and Bruni-Sarkozy raises questions about Meghan's ability to carve out a similar niche for herself.
Carla Bruni posted on Instagram comparing Meghan Markle to Yoko Ono around the time Prince Harry's memoir "Spare" was released. She later issued an overly enthusiastic apology. Meghan Markle lacks the sophistication and recognition to be aware of Carla Bruni, let alone compete with her. Moreover, the speculation that Meghan's venture into the wine business might be more about maintaining a public presence than about genuine entrepreneurial passion persists. Her initial products, such as jams and dog biscuits, haven't made a significant impact. Some critics argue that these products are just a way to keep her name in the media.
If Meghan does indeed pivot to selling wine, it could be a strategic move to align herself with a more sophisticated and lucrative market. The wine industry, especially with the celebrity endorsement trend, offers substantial financial rewards and an elevated brand image. However, the success of such a venture would depend on the quality of the product and Meghan's ability to connect with consumers. It remains to be seen whether Meghan's potential wine brand will be a carefully crafted product or a hastily rebranded one. Regardless, her entry into the wine market would undoubtedly generate significant media attention and public interest.
