Marvin R. Shanken, the influential publisher of Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado, died at 83 from glioblastoma. He transformed a struggling newsletter into a leading authority on American wine, helping elevate Napa and Sonoma to global luxury status.
In 1979, he bought Wine Spectator for $40,000 and grew its circulation from 5,000 to over 100,000. By blending news, lifestyle, and expert reviews, he championed West Coast wines as rivals to Bordeaux and Tuscany. His publications adopted the 100-point rating system, making wine more accessible to consumers.
He also acquired Cigar Aficionado and Whisky Advocate, and built a portfolio of trade magazines. Colleagues praised his vision and impact on the wine industry. Shanken was known for his opulent Manhattan office, complete with a wine cellar and humidor, and for cultivating relationships with powerful figures across finance, politics, and entertainment.
Source: New York Times Top Stories · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing