As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question of whether Paul Masson wine is being discontinued. It is important to note that my answer is based on the information available up until 2021, and it is always recommended to stay updated with the latest news regarding wine production.
In 2021, it was indeed announced that the Federal Trade Commission had approved the sale, allowing production of the brandies to return to California after 28 years of being made in New York. This means that Paul Masson wines will once again be produced in California, which is where their roots lie. This news marked a significant change for the brand, as it had been produced in New York for almost three decades.
However, it is worth mentioning that at the time of writing this answer, no one presently makes any Paul Masson wines. The rights to the brand remain with the Wine Group LLC, which discontinued production in 2018. This means that although the production could potentially return to California, it has not yet happened.
The discontinuation of Paul Masson wine production in 2018 might have been influenced by various factors such as market demand, changes in consumer preferences, or business decisions made by the Wine Group LLC. These factors can often impact the production and availability of specific wine brands.
It is important to remember that the wine industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. Brands and producers may make decisions to discontinue or revive certain products based on various factors. Therefore, it is always recommended to stay informed about the latest developments in the wine industry to have the most up-to-date information.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have witnessed the ebb and flow of wine brands and production. Some brands may temporarily or permanently discontinue certain wines due to factors such as changes in market trends, production costs, or the desire to focus on other products. However, this does not necessarily mean that a brand is completely disappearing from the market. In some cases, production may be resumed or restructured to meet changing consumer demands.
As of 2021, Paul Masson wine production has not been discontinued permanently. While the rights to the brand remain with the Wine Group LLC, there are plans to bring production back to California after a 28-year hiatus in New York. However, it is important to stay updated with the latest news and developments in the wine industry to have the most accurate information regarding the production and availability of Paul Masson wines.