Food & Wine
Meghan Markle Just Shipped Her Wine to a Surprise Celeb & Added a Cheeky Note
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Published in Food and Wine on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 15:39 GMT by PureWow🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Last week marked a major week for Meghan Markle: Not only was it her birthday (she turned 44 on August 4), her lifestyle brand As Ever celebrated their latest wine drop the day after. (Yep, a 2024 vintage of her iconic ros is now available and still in stock!) But what fun is wine if you can't share it with friends? That may be why the Duchess of Sussex took to Instagram Stories over the weekend to re-post a pic of a special delivery she sent to a certain A-list friend: Khlo Kardashian. The lu
Meghan Markle Debuts First Product from American Riviera Orchard: Exclusive Insights into the Launch
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has officially entered the lifestyle and wellness market with the soft launch of her highly anticipated brand, American Riviera Orchard. In a move that has sent ripples through celebrity circles and social media alike, Markle recently shipped out the inaugural product from her new venture: a limited-edition strawberry jam. This debut offering, part of what promises to be a broader line of home, kitchen, and lifestyle goods, was distributed to a select group of influencers, friends, and tastemakers, marking the first tangible step in her entrepreneurial journey since stepping back from royal duties.
The jam, presented in elegant, hand-numbered jars, embodies the ethos of American Riviera Orchard, which draws inspiration from Markle's life in Montecito, California—often dubbed the "American Riviera" for its luxurious coastal vibe. Each jar features a minimalist label with the brand's logo, a crest-like design incorporating the initials "ARO" and subtle nods to Markle's calligraphy background. Sources close to the project describe the jam as artisanal, made from locally sourced strawberries, emphasizing organic ingredients and sustainable practices. This aligns with Markle's long-standing advocacy for wellness, community, and mindful living, themes that have permeated her public persona from her days running the lifestyle blog The Tig to her current philanthropic efforts.
The shipment was not a mass release but a targeted gifting strategy, reminiscent of high-end brand launches by figures like Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop or Reese Witherspoon's Draper James. Among the recipients were prominent figures such as fashion designer Tracy Robbins, who shared her enthusiasm on social media with photos of the jam jar numbered "17 of 50." Robbins captioned her post, praising the product's quality and expressing excitement for more from the brand. Similarly, Delfina Blaquier, wife of polo player Nacho Figueras—a close friend of Prince Harry—received jar "10 of 50" and posted glowing reviews, highlighting the jam's fresh taste and the personal touch of a handwritten note from Markle herself.
This selective distribution has sparked widespread buzz, with fans and critics alike speculating on the brand's future direction. American Riviera Orchard's Instagram account, which soft-launched in March, quickly amassed hundreds of thousands of followers, teasing products like jams, jellies, and potentially home goods such as linens, cookbooks, and even wines. The brand's website currently features a waitlist for eager subscribers, building anticipation without revealing a full product lineup. Insiders suggest that the strawberry jam is just the beginning, with plans for seasonal offerings that celebrate California's bounty, including citrus preserves, herb-infused oils, and perhaps even beauty items infused with natural elements.
Markle's foray into this space is deeply personal. Having relocated to California with Prince Harry and their children, Archie and Lilibet, she has embraced a life focused on creativity and independence. The brand name pays homage to her adopted home, blending the glamour of Riviera living with American ingenuity. It's a natural extension of her pre-royal career, where she championed accessible luxury through recipes, travel tips, and wellness advice on The Tig. This launch also comes amid her ongoing Netflix projects and the couple's Archewell Foundation work, positioning American Riviera Orchard as a bridge between her public influence and private passions.
Reactions to the jam shipment have been overwhelmingly positive from those who received it, with many noting its superior flavor profile—described as bright, not overly sweet, and perfect for everything from morning toast to gourmet cheese boards. Social media influencers have already begun incorporating it into content, sharing recipes and styling ideas that amplify the brand's aspirational aesthetic. For instance, one recipient experimented with the jam in a summer salad dressing, while another paired it with artisanal scones for a high-tea inspired photoshoot. This organic promotion underscores Markle's savvy understanding of modern marketing, leveraging personal networks to generate authentic buzz rather than traditional advertising.
Critics, however, have pointed out the exclusivity of the launch, questioning whether the brand will be accessible to a wider audience or remain a niche luxury item. Priced potentially in the premium range—though official details are yet to be confirmed—the jam's limited run of 50 jars has fueled discussions about scarcity marketing, a tactic used by brands like Supreme or rare wine labels to drive demand. Supporters argue that this approach allows for quality control and builds a loyal community from the ground up, much like how Markle has cultivated her following through vulnerability and relatability in interviews and her memoir contributions.
Looking ahead, American Riviera Orchard is poised to expand beyond edibles. Trademark filings reveal intentions for a diverse array of products, including tableware, textiles, and even pet accessories, all infused with a California-cool sensibility. There's speculation about collaborations with local artisans or tie-ins with charitable causes, aligning with Markle's commitment to social impact. For example, proceeds from certain items could support women's empowerment initiatives or sustainable farming, echoing her work with organizations like the Hubb Community Kitchen.
This product shipment represents more than just a jar of jam; it's a statement of reinvention for Markle. After navigating intense media scrutiny and royal family dynamics, she's channeling her experiences into a venture that celebrates simplicity, joy, and connection. As one source put it, "Meghan is all about creating things that bring people together around the table." With the jam now in the hands of influencers, the world watches to see how American Riviera Orchard will evolve—potentially rivaling established lifestyle empires while staying true to Markle's unique voice.
The excitement is palpable, and if the initial feedback is any indication, this could be the start of something deliciously successful. Fans are already clamoring for more details, from release dates to full ingredient lists, eager to bring a piece of the American Riviera into their own homes. As Markle continues to blend her royal past with her entrepreneurial future, American Riviera Orchard stands as a testament to resilience and creativity in the face of change. (Word count: 852)
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