Few countries take beer more seriously than Belgium. As a nation, it is responsible for producing some of the most exciting and nuanced brews to reach the UK’s shores. To Belgians, access to beer is almost seen as a basic human right and it is inconceivable to think of the country’s leaders sanctioning a ban that limits what is available. Talk to consumers there and…

Anita Jackson has pledged to put consumer and trade education at the centre of her strategy after being instilled as UK director at Wines of Chile. Jackson had been acting UK director after the generic body’s inspirational former leader, the late Michael Cox, became ill and she has now been given the top job full-time. She said Chile is performing well in the UK off-trade…

Veuve Clicquot Champagne is making its first stand-alone appearance at next week’s London Wine Fair at Olympia with an Airstream trailer. The vehicle, which was built in 1946, will set up in the centre of the fair on June 2 and show wines including the house’s signature Yellow Label, Rosé and Vintage 2004. Guy Anderson Wines will also be sparkling at the LWF with the launch…

Costcutter owner Bibby Line Group could be ready to jettison its loss-making Rhythm & Booze off- licence chain to focus on its core convenience business. The company bought R&B in a pre-pack administration just two years ago but the formation of last year’s Buyco joint venture with Mace retailer and wholesaler Palmer & Harvey has left the off-licence group down the pecking order. Trade rumours…