The Comité Champagne has described the 2026 harvest as one of “unprecedented earliness” but said that exceptional climatic conditions are likely to lead…
The Comité Champagne has described the 2026 harvest as one of “unprecedented earliness” but said that exceptional climatic conditions are likely to lead…
Flint Wines has added eleven new South African wineries to its portfolio, to tap into the region’s growing significance within the fine wine market and broadening Flint’s portfolio of terroir-driven wines from the new world. The move will be supported by a new strategic partnership with the Midlands-based Dreyfus Ashby, headed by Richard Kelley MW, who is regarded as one of…
Georgia has introduced more rigorous standards for vineyard quality through a new planting reform. From 1 May, anyone seeking to establish or restructure a commercial vineyard must first gain written consent from the National Wine Agency of Georgia (NWA). The move forms part of the Rules for Establishing a Commercial Vineyard, which are set to be formally adopted by the Minister of Environmental Protection and…
Virgin Wines has reported a 2% revenue increase to £34.7m in its interim results to 2 January 2026. Within this, the retailer experienced particularly strong results in the seven weeks to 26 December, with revenue up 5%. Net cash reached £10.6m, gross cash was £17.9m and the balance sheet remained debt-free. The group also continued to invest in its…
Total beverage alcohol (TBA) consumption volume declined by 1% during H1 2025 compared to the same period the year before, according to the IWSR. However, surveying the top twenty key markets, the IWSR said that TBA value largely remained steady. Despite the overall trend, some markets experienced TBA volume growth. India, for example, grew by 7% in H1…
The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has welcomed four new members to its executive board, bringing over 130 years’ experience in the drinks trade. This week the quartet attended their first WSTA board meeting held at the Penderyn Distillery in Swansea. Joining the WSTA top table were Brian Davis, director at London City Bond, Gillian Murray, commercial procurement director…
Hallgarten & Novum Wines has been appointed exclusive UK distributor by Champagne Abelé 1757 in an agreement which will see the former supply cuvées from the region’s fifth-oldest house into the premium retail and hospitality sectors. Abelé 1757 has been producing small batch, premium Champagne in the region for 250 years and was served onboard the…
The superstar-owned drinks sector is bursting with big names eager to make a splash. But as this trend matures, it’s clear not all celebrity brands are built alike. Tom Khan-Lavin, chief executive, YesMore drinks marketing agency weighs in… WHAT’S HOT PERSONALITY-DRIVEN BRANDS: Brands that thrive are those that reflect their celebrity owner’s personality and flair. Ryan Reynolds’ Aviation gin is the ultimate…
