Great article. Experts will always influence people with their knowledge and skill (information asymmetry) in a positive or negative way : this should be taught properly in Sommelier classes.

Back to the conclusion that I fully agree and endorse, I believe that Direct To Consumer is the way to go for wineries anywhere in the world. While regulations (and protectionism!) are obviously an issue this will allow small wineries (76% of the wineries worldwide!) to find and nurture new customers. Internet will be the medium that connect winemaker and wine lovers without intermediary.