Welcome to Episode 2202 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this special year-end episode of Masterclass US Wine Market, hosts Barbara Fitzgerald and Juliana Colangelo reflect on an exciting year of the series.

From unforgettable guest interviews to the most insightful episodes, they recap the stories, trends, and moments that defined 2024. Tune in for their favorite highlights, expert takeaways, and a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2025!

 

More about the hosts: Barbara Fitzgerald

 

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries. As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.


Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilabottiglia

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com

 

 More about the hosts: Juliana Colangelo


Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022 Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador.


Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/julezcolang?lang=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/


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Until next time, Cin Cin!