Okay, but can we talk about Meghan Markle for a moment? This Tuesday, she’s launching a rosé wine that everyone seems to be buzzing about, thanks to her Netflix-backed brand, As Ever. But hold on—there’s more to the story! While excitement builds for her new wine, her apricot spread is stirring up quite the drama, especially in the British tabloids. Can we say *drama alert*? 🚨💁♀️
The Journey of As Ever
Meghan’s journey into the lifestyle branding world kicked off with a simple idea: the homemade jams she made in her kitchen. She’s all about that DIY vibe, but here’s the plot twist—her spreads are actually being produced in Illinois, a whopping 2000 miles away from her California home! 😲 Sources reveal that the spreads and teas are sourced from Republic of Tea, known for its elegant blends, using berries from an undisclosed supplier. And yes, her rosé is a collaboration with Fairwinds Estate in Napa Valley. Who else is curious about how all this sourcing really works? 🍇🍷
In an interview with Fortune earlier this year, Meghan mentioned that everything is made in the U.S., but the sourcing details are still a bit murky. The tabloids are on the case! Apparently, she’s actively searching for new suppliers. It’s like a reality show, but for jam!
Behind the Scenes of the Brand
Did you know Meghan first teased her brand back in April 2024? She sent out jars of her homemade strawberry jam to 50 friends, and let’s just say, the Instagram posts that followed were everything! Stars like Mindy Kaling and Chrissy Teigen were all over it, generating buzz that Meghan could only dream of. Initially, she wanted to name her brand “American Rivera Orchard,” but then realized that might limit her potential. Smart move, right? 🌟
Fast forward to April 2025, and she finally launched As Ever with a fresh name and a raspberry spread. She’s got big dreams for this brand, wanting to expand the flavors. “Think of them like sneaker drops,” she told Jamie Kern Lima. I mean, who doesn’t love a good jam drop? The apricot spread is the latest flavor, but some folks are raising their eyebrows over it.
The Jam vs. Spread Debate
Recently, an American jam maker called out Meghan for marketing her product as a fruit spread, suggesting it’s basically a cover-up for failed jam. Ouch! 😬 Donna Collins from Jelly Queens expressed her disappointment, explaining that a true jam needs that perfect fruit-to-sugar ratio. Who knew there were so many rules? The FDA requires jam to contain at least 55% sugar and 45% fruit. Meghan even mentioned on her show that she made her product with less sugar on purpose, stating, “I just don’t think you can taste the fruit that way.” Sounds like she’s trying to keep it healthy, but at what cost?
As Ever describes their apricot spread as having “a touch of sweetness, letting the apricot’s bright flavor shine.” However, reviews are mixed, with some saying the texture is a bit too runny. Meghan even joked about it, saying her new busy schedule means the only thing she wants to spread thin is her jam. 😂
With all this buzz surrounding Meghan’s new ventures, it’s clear she’s not just stepping into the limelight—she’s sparking some real conversations. Are you excited to try her rosé, or do you think the jam controversy is the bigger deal? Let’s chat! What are your thoughts on her business moves? 🍷💬