Meghan Markle recently introduced American Riviera Orchard, initially appearing to focus on artisanal jams and dog biscuits.
However, speculation suggests these products are merely the starting point and not the brand's primary focus. Insiders believe Meghan's true target is the lucrative adult beverage market. Her passion for wine is well-known, with her former lifestyle blog, The Tig, named after her favorite wine, Tignanello.
Rumors indicate that the first major product from American Riviera Orchard will be a rosé wine. The Daily Mail reports that Meghan plans to release not just wine but also a range of products related to hosting and entertaining, such as 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 over red wine might be sentimental, as The Daily Mail speculates rosé was Meghan's drink of choice on her first date with Prince Harry, adding 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, demonstrating the time and dedication required to produce a distinctive product. Speculation suggests Meghan might not invest years into creating a unique wine but might rebrand an existing product for a quicker entry into the market.
While Meghan Markle's foray into the wine business is intriguing, it comes with challenges. Carla Bruni-Sarkozy had a successful career and a strong public image to leverage for her wine brand. Meghan, however, faces constant skepticism and scrutiny. The comparison raises questions about Meghan's ability to carve out a similar niche. Carla Bruni once compared Meghan to Yoko Ono on Instagram around the release of Prince Harry's memoir "Spare," later issuing an overly enthusiastic apology.
Some argue that Meghan lacks the sophistication and recognition to compete with Bruni-Sarkozy. Moreover, there is speculation that Meghan's venture into the wine business is more about maintaining public presence than genuine entrepreneurial passion. Her initial products, such as jams and dog biscuits, haven't made a significant impact. Critics argue these products are just a way to keep her name in the media. If Meghan pivots to selling wine, it could be a strategic move to align herself with a more sophisticated and lucrative market.
The wine industry, especially with celebrity endorsements, 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.
