Wine Industry Advisor reports the death of Marvin R. Shanken, founder of M. Shanken Communications and publisher of Wine Spectator, at the age of 83. Shanken became one of the most influential figures in American wine publishing after acquiring Wine Spectator in 1979 and developing it into a major consumer wine publication. His influence extended to wine ratings, restaurant awards, trade research and international tasting events. He also established the Wine Spectator Scholarship Foundation in 1983, supporting education and professional development within the wine and hospitality industries.