The wine industry has managed to have a stellar year despite some strategic changes. Many restaurants decided to rethink their Reserve lists, grocers and wine stores increased their specially priced wines, AKA the under $10 bins, and consumers became more adventuresome in their selections than maybe they were a year ago. With all the adjustments, the wine industry survived with a relatively strong year. Maybe not the sparklings, but the rest of the industry.

Here are other facts to sip:

Health articles that speak volumes about the heart-healthy benefits of red wine positively impact consumption. There’s a possible spike in grape juice consumption, too, as it possesses the same ingredient, resveratrol. How about the impact of resveratrol on fighting off viruses. Right now with the fear of the devastating effects of the flu, the Italian study could not be better timed. I’m starting to feel really healthy.

With all the employment anxiety affecting so many of us, how about the study that suggests red wine helps with digestion. Now we’re talking pairing: a good dinner and a glass of red wine. This has true promise.

Sure some wineries have not survived aspects of the downturn, and the Julia Child/Robert Mondavi food center, (The American Center for Wine, Food, & the Arts, COPIA in Napa) is up for sale, but as far as an industry, many US regions are reporting strong sales. Wines from South America, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand  are strong contenders for a re-tailored wine budget. It looks as if France is back in favor as the world’s number one wine producer, taking the crown from last year’s winner, Italy.

Wine tastes and budgets are all over the map. Maybe you’re drinking more Malbec than Merlot now than you were 2 years ago, or more Beaujolais than Bordeaux, but you’re enjoying the swirl. Some patterns could be in flux as big bonuses are back again on Wall Street. Maybe some of those redefined New York restaurants are rethinking their tailored-down lists. Time will tell. I hope those days of wine and roses are left to the novelists.

So many wonderful wines.

Raise your glass high and enjoy the bouquet while your heart, digestive system, and virus-fighting agents smile at your beverage selection.