Sommelier says Duchess’s wine stands on its own merit
Meghan Markle's lifestyle brand, As Ever, is showing it can deliver more than just publicity. The Duchess’s 2024 Napa Valley Rosé, launched on June 20, was described by the brand as offering “soft notes of stone fruit, gentle minerality, and a lasting finish.”
The first batch sold out on AsEver.com in under an hour, with a second release on August 5 disappearing just as quickly. While the exact number of bottles remains unknown, the rapid sales underline the so-called “Meghan effect.”
Since stepping away from royal duties in 2020, Meghan has remained a highly visible figure, drawing both admiration and criticism. Her latest venture enters a crowded market of celebrity-owned rosés, alongside offerings from Brad Pitt, Jon Bon Jovi, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Snoop Dogg.
Award-winning sommelier Jordan Salcito, known for her work at Eleven Madison Park and Momofuku, put As Ever Rosé through a rigorous, unbiased taste test. Her verdict? This is a well-made wine that stands on its own, not just like a celebrity product.
Salcito recommends serving it chilled with grilled salmon, pork belly, barbecue, roasted vegetables, or even spicy Thai dishes. With its polished execution, engaging flavor, and strong structure, she believes the wine will hold up beautifully for the next year or two.
