Zane Holscher, co-founder of VINUV, is passionate about Argentina’s Uco Valley and its potential for producing high-quality wines. After retiring from a 21-year military career, Zane, alongside his wife Mindy, turned their love for wine into a full-fledged business by purchasing a vineyard in the Uco Valley. Their journey into winemaking quickly evolved into a larger vision: importing select wines from small, outstanding producers in Argentina to share with the U.S. market.

Retired from the military after 21 years of service in the United States Air Force.

Their brand, VINUV, continues to expand as they embrace their new adventure in the world of wine. The name, a fusion of "Vin" (French for wine) and "Uco Valley," represents their dedication to producing boutique, limited-production wines that offer both quality and character. From everyday wine enthusiasts to connoisseurs, VINUV wines promise an immersive, all-access experience in Argentina's rich wine culture.

When the world hit pause during the pandemic, Zane and Mindy, like many others, found solace in creativity - hosting blind tastings around their dinner table. What began as a passion project soon blossomed into a dream of vineyard ownership. Within just six months, the couple had transformed from wine enthusiasts into proud vineyard owners in one of the world’s most exciting wine regions, Argentina's Uco Valley.

Tasting Sessions at Vinuv

At VINUV, the journey is as important as the destination. Zane and Mindy’s mission is to share their passion and the unique experiences of Argentina’s wine country with every bottle. VINUV is more than just a winery—it's a vibrant community rooted in the love of exceptional wines and adventurous spirits.

Why Argentina?

The Uco Valley is one of Argentina’s premier wine-growing regions, renowned for its high-altitude vineyards and exceptional terroir. The valley produces world-class wines, especially Malbec, which is quickly gaining popularity on the global stage. Zane’s commitment to this region reflects his belief in the potential for Argentine wines to captivate both casual drinkers and serious wine lovers.

Argentina’s Wine Regions

VINUV focuses on offering wines that are approachable and affordable without sacrificing quality. Zane and Mindy’s dedication to boutique, small-batch wines ensures that every bottle tells the unique story of the region and its winemakers.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Wine Import Business

Zane acknowledges that importing wines from lesser-known regions like Argentina comes with its own set of challenges. However, he views these challenges as opportunities. Rising shipping costs, supply chain hurdles, and limited inventory have created difficulties, but they also present an opening for restaurants and retailers to explore more unique wine offerings at competitive price points.

"Consumers today are always on the lookout for something new and different," Zane says. "By importing wines from the Uco Valley, we're able to offer a product that is distinctive, high-quality, and perfect for anyone looking to explore something off the beaten path."

Advice for Winemakers Seeking International Expansion

Zane’s advice for winemakers looking to expand their presence in international markets is simple: focus on authenticity and storytelling. "Consumers connect with the story behind the wine as much as the wine itself," Zane explains. "They want to feel like they’re part of something special when they open a bottle."

As a Regional and Category Ambassador for the Sommeliers Choice Awards, Zane plays a pivotal role in helping wineries gain recognition in the U.S. market. His involvement with the Sommeliers Choice Awards allows him to showcase the best wines from Argentina, helping consumers and professionals discover wines that might otherwise remain unknown.

Super Early Bird Pricing: Winemakers looking to enter the Sommeliers Choice Awards 2025 can take advantage of the Super Early Bird Pricing of $80 per wine, available until October 31, 2024. This is a great opportunity to gain visibility in the U.S. market and get your wines evaluated by top experts in the industry.

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This "Know Your Importer" series introduces passionate wine importers who are bringing unique, small-production wines to the U.S. market. Sommeliers Choice Awards aims to connect you with these boutique importers and the exceptional wines they represent, making it easier for you to discover new, exciting wines for your wine lists.

Header Image: Zane & Mindy Holscher

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