Subject category:
Case Method and Specialist Management Disciplines
Published by:
Harvard Business Publishing
Version: 19 July 2005
Length: 2 pages
Data source: Field research
Abstract
Freemark Abbey must decide whether to harvest in view of the possibility of rain. Rain could damage the crop but delaying the harvest would be risky. On the other hand, rain could be beneficial and greatly increase the value of the resulting wine. This decision is further complicated by the fact that ripe Riesling grapes can be vinified in two ways, resulting in two different styles of wine. Their relative prices would depend on the uncertain preference of consumers two years later, when the wine is bottled and sold.
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 1980.Geographical setting
Region:
Americas
Country:
United States
Locations:
California;Napa Valley
Featured company
Freemark Abbey Winery
Industry:
Alcoholic beverages
Featured protagonist
- William Jaeger (male), Owner
About
Abstract
Freemark Abbey must decide whether to harvest in view of the possibility of rain. Rain could damage the crop but delaying the harvest would be risky. On the other hand, rain could be beneficial and greatly increase the value of the resulting wine. This decision is further complicated by the fact that ripe Riesling grapes can be vinified in two ways, resulting in two different styles of wine. Their relative prices would depend on the uncertain preference of consumers two years later, when the wine is bottled and sold.
Settings
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 1980.Geographical setting
Region:
Americas
Country:
United States
Locations:
California;Napa Valley
Featured company
Freemark Abbey Winery
Industry:
Alcoholic beverages
Featured protagonist
- William Jaeger (male), Owner