After a career spanning more than 30 years at M. Shanken Communications, Thomas Matthews is stepping down as executive editor of Wine Spectator. Jeffery Lindenmuth, executive editor of sibling publication Whisky Advocate, will assume the role. The transition will take place at the end of 2020, announced Marvin R. Shanken, editor and publisher of both magazines.
Matthews joined Wine Spectator in 1988, working in the London and then the New York offices. In 1999, he was promoted to executive editor, overseeing print and digital operations as well as events and special projects. Matthews has also been the magazine’s lead taster for the wines of Spain, and a principal travel and restaurant writer. During his tenure, Wine Spectator became the most widely read wine publication in the world, with more than 3 million readers.
“Tom has been an integral part of the company. His contributions to the success of Wine Spectator cannot be overstated,” said Shanken. “Fortunately, he has agreed to continue in an advisory role, heading up our annual New York Wine Experience as well as other special projects.
“I have full confidence in Jeffery Lindenmuth as he steps into Tom’s role,” added Shanken. “As executive editor of Whisky Advocate, Jeffery has done an outstanding job propelling the publication into the most highly respected whisky magazine in the world. Under his leadership, the magazine has enjoyed significant growth. Having worked closely with him, I believe he can take Wine Spectator to even greater heights.”
Lindenmuth, 49, joined M. Shanken Communications in 2000 as a contributing editor on wine and spirits at Food Arts magazine, a beloved lifestyle trade publication for chefs and other food professionals. In 2016, he was named executive editor of Whisky Advocate. During his tenure, he has overseen major changes in content and design as the publication grew dramatically. One cornerstone was instituting blind-tasting methodology for whisky reviews, to conform with the philosophy of Wine Spectator and of M. Shanken’s Cigar Aficionado magazine.
“Jeffery has a creative and enlightened understanding of consumer publications,” Shanken said. “I am excited to work with Jeff as we bring new ideas and directions to Wine Spectator.”