I don't think the new format is that bad, certainly not bad enough to stop people visiting/posting if they are really looking to buy.
My own forum had a bit of a lull in September/October, as people considered their budgets and the impending festive season, and a seasonal lull in the sharpest of deals. But it came back with a vengeance in November with all the $100 vouchers and other deals floating around. I expect it will be a little quiet again until about the end of January as holidays and hot weather aren't conducive to wine-buying.
With VM I've sent back two recent buys, Geisen Clayvin Pinot Noir 2013 $90-->$45, just not good enough for $45 and the Australian RRP (via Robert Oatley) is $64.95 and the Star Lane Nebbiolo 2015 @ $25, I'd rather buy a Langhe Nebbiolo under cork than drink the Star Lane.
I think the Allegiance Artisan Barossa Shiraz 2016 @ $18 is a pretty good wine, far ahead of the thin and lack lustre McLaren Vale 2015 Artisan Shiraz. Also bought some of the St Leonards Durif 2015, happy to keep that one.