A new classification for single estate, premium cava has been launched in a bid to raise the quality perception of the Spanish sparkler. The new classification, Cava del Paraje, comes with a strict set of requirements from the region’s regulatory board, the CRDO del Cava. The wines must be made from grapes grown in vineyards that are at least 10 years old and the grapes…

The association responsible for promoting Cava is introducing a new classification to emphasise the range and diversity of the Spanish fizz and encourage shoppers to trade-up. Only suppliers producing wines from single vineyard estates within their property will be eligible to add Cava del Paraje Calificado to labels. The region’s Consejo Regulador said the new tier would be introduced this autumn with…

A supplier has urged the beer industry to devise a proper classification system to prevent the trade using the tag “world beers” to describe drinks brewed in the UK. Ian Moss, marketing controller at Budvar, believes “world beer” is “conning” consumers because so many are brewed in Britain. He said: “Why have the wine and spirits businesses managed to sort themselves out so well but…

South Africa’s leading producers have launched the Cape Vintner Classification in an attempt to establish a system of accreditation for distinctive, site-specific wines. The new classification system aims to ensure quality Cape wines are recognised alongside the best in the world. The organisers hope it will “provide assurance to customers of the integrity of its members”. Founding member Johann Rupert, a wine entrepreneur and luxury…