Meghan Markle’s rapidly expanding lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, has seen impressive success in recent months. But her latest product launch is drawing heavy criticism not for the wine itself, but for the date she chose to release it.
On Tuesday, June 20, the Duchess of Sussex officially launched her 2023 Napa Valley Rosé, which sold out on her website within an hour, just as her previous restock and limited summer items had done days earlier. However, royal experts have slammed the launch date as “insensitive,” noting that it coincided with what would have been Princess Diana’s 64th birthday.
Related: Prince Harry Reportedly Pressured Meghan Not to Launch Wine on His Mom’s Birthday
Diana, the late mother of Prince Harry, died tragically in a car crash in 1997 after the vehicle’s driver was found to be intoxicated. The association between alcohol and the anniversary of such a devastating event has struck a painful chord for some, particularly within the royal circle.
Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield called the timing a “cruel” misstep that has “struck a nerve” with many, including Prince Harry himself. Speaking with The Sun, Schofield said, “I think Diana’s death remains one of the most heart-breaking and symbolic moments in modern royal history. Linking that memory, whether intentionally or accidentally, to a commercial product—especially one tied to alcohol—feels like a profound misjudgement.”
She added, “There are 363 other days to launch a wine or an alcohol brand. Choosing this one, even if unintentional, speaks volumes.” While Meghan has not publicly addressed the backlash, critics argue the move could not have come at a worse time emotionally for Prince Harry. July 1 is widely understood to be a solemn day for him—a moment of remembrance for the mother he often speaks about with reverence and affection.
Schofield emphasized the emotional toll this date holds for Harry: “It’s a tough day. He would be thinking about the mother he lost, the mother that he loved, the mother that he talks to us about constantly.” In contrast, she noted, Meghan may have been “excited” about the launch and its instant success, creating what she described as a “shockingly tone-deaf” juxtaposition.
Related: Meghan Markle’s Reportedly Planning Wine Tastings in Napa and Family Getaways in Northern California
Though the launch has generated buzz and strong sales, the backlash highlights the challenges the Sussexes continue to face as they build their independent brand while remaining tethered to a powerful royal legacy. Whether the date was an unfortunate oversight or an intentional move, it has added new tension to an already complex public narrative surrounding the couple.