The Drinks Report | Wines

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Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EDT

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QR coded labels link wines to recipes

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 04:58:00 EDT

Portuguese wine producer Falua has joined forces with food and wine matching expert Charles Metcalfe to promote the food matching potential of Tagus Creek wines.

McGuigan starts wine &food matching service

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 04:57:00 EDT

Australian winemaker Neil McGuigan has launched a wine and food matching service with celebrity chef John Torode.

Marisco appoints new winemaker

Sat, 19 Jan 2013 07:32:00 EDT

New Zealand�s Marisco Vineyards has appointed Matt Mitchell as winemaker.

New technical director at Ch�teau Petit-Village

Sun, 30 Dec 2012 17:26:00 EDT

December 2012: Christian Seely has named Marielle Cazaux as the new technical director at Ch�teau Petit-Village (Pomerol) part of the AXA Mill�simes.

MW to launch consultancy

Sun, 30 Dec 2012 17:25:00 EDT

Justin Howard Sneyd, global wine director at Direct Wines, is setting up a wine consultancy, The Hive Wine Consulting, in January 2013.

Justin Knock joins Cobevco

Sun, 30 Dec 2012 17:24:00 EDT

Justin Knock MW, has joined bottling specialist Cobevco as winemaking consultant

Labels link with fashion

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:02:00 EDT

To celebrate its partnership Clothes Show Live, the UK�s largest fashion & beauty event, Echo Falls wine brand is launching three limited edition fashion labels exclusively with Tesco.

Brazilian wine producers are set to take their place on the world stage

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 09:00:00 EDT

Wines of Brasil believes the time is right for the introduction of something new to the world's wine drinking nations. Felicity Murray reports from the country's main wine growing region, Serra Ga�cha

New DO for Chile's wine map

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 11:27:00 EDT

Vi�a Err�zuriz�s longstanding quest to establish the coastal section of the Valle de Aconcagua as a new viticultural zone in Chile became a reality.

160YO Heidsieck is reinvented

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:20:00 EDT

Champagne Charles Heidsieck has been relaunched in new packaging

New look across Echo Falls range

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 04:38:00 EDT

Accolade Wines has given its top selling brand Echo Falls a new look following consumer research.

Exclusive Champagne Jaquart cooler bag for UK on-trade

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 03:45:00 EDT

Champagne Jacquart has unveiled a new point of sale cooler bag for its Brut Mosa�que cuv�e, available through the Champagne house�s exclusive UK agent, Enotria.

Legacy Wines announces new Californian wine brand

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 03:45:00 EDT

Launched at the beginning of the year, Legacy Wines, the impulse, export and on-trade division of Manchester-based Kingsland Wines & Spirits, has introduced a Californian wine brand � named �Juicy Grape Wines� � to its portfolio.

Champagne �slump� � what slump? London fine wine merchant reports sales continue to bubble

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 03:43:00 EDT

Bucking a reported slump in sales in champagne, London-based fine wine merchant Bordeaux Index says it is on course to sell record quantities.

Champagne Gremillet repositions though its packaging

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 03:42:00 EDT

Champagne Maison Gremillet has relaunched its range of Champagnes with all new packaging created by UK design agency Biles Inc.

Accolade Wines changes management structure

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:24:00 EDT

Accolade Wines has changed its European management structure. The role of European commercial general manager has been split into two separate ones covering Mainland Europe and the UK and Ireland.

Bibendum appoints Andrew Shaw

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:23:00 EDT

Andrew Shaw will be joining Bibendum as head of buying in the autumn of 2012.

Luxury presentation

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:11:00 EDT

Professional Packaging Services in the UK has created a limited edition �family� of presentation boxes for Taittinger Champagne.

'Must have' fashion accessory from the House of Krug

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:10:00 EDT

Called Fl�nerie, the Champagne comes in a luxury leatherwork bag. Bearing the Krug stamp, its adjustable shoulder strap gives the option of carrying it slung across the shoulder or held in the hand.

First new style in 50yrs

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:09:00 EDT

Maison Lillet, the French ap�ritif producer in Bordeaux, has launched its first new product in 50 years, Lillet Ros�.

Mateus Ros� bottle refreshed

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:06:00 EDT

Mateus Ros� Original has refreshed its packaging to celebrate 70 years on shelf. The familiar bottle has been redesigned and, for the first time, will only be available in a screw cap closure.

Co-operative's ambitious 'project prestige' sees return on investment

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:05:00 EDT

Felicity Murray reports on the remarkable results of an ambitious and intitially politically difficult project for a wine co-operative

Blanc de Noirs is first Cava listed in Searcys Champagne bars

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:31:00 EDT

Grupo Codorn�u, Spain, has a new addition to its Anna de Codorn�u range: Anna de Codorn�u Blanc de Noir

Legacy debut with The Gathering

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:31:00 EDT

Legacy Wines, the new division within Manchester-based Kingsland Wines and Spirits, launched this Spring its first brand, The Gathering, inspired by the philosophy that wine is best enjoyed when shared with friends.

Reduction � where have all the flavours gone?

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EDT

It�s often hard to put a finger on why a wine loses it�s �zing�..... difficult to identify reductive aromas, the tell-tale sign that what�s in the bottle has dulled. But what is �reduction? How is it caused? And how can you spot it � at different stages?

New wraparound labels and new tiers

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:29:00 EDT

Vidal, the oldest boutique winery in Hawkes Bay, has unveiled a fresh, contemporary new look to its labels, retaining the familiarity of the Vidal flame while highlighting the history of the estate and the premium nature of the brand.

Sweet new summer wine style from Gallo to be launched in the UK

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:28:00 EDT

his summer, Gallo Family Vineyards will introduce Gallo Moscato � a "lusciously sweet" and fruity white wine style with notes of peach, citrus, pineapple and orange blossom.

Commemorative labels get Sainsbury�s stamp of approval

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:27:00 EDT

With the UK geared up to celebrate all things British this summer, Accolade Wines is launching a limited edition label within the Hardy�s Stamp range.

Championing Tempranillo

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:57:00 EDT

Pernod Ricard aims to grow the Spanish wine category by raising awareness of the the Tempranillo grape and the quality wines this varietal produces in the Rioja region.

Boutinot UK adds The Cloud Factory to its portfolio of New Zealand wines

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:56:00 EDT

Bob Lindo, joint founder of Camel Valley Vineyards in Cornwall, has submitted the UK�s first single grower application for Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) recognition.

Brancott brand relaunched

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:55:00 EDT

Pernod Ricard appointed the Singapore studio of international design house Design Bridge to rebrand its Brancott Estate premium New Zealand wine brand in the UK.

UK vineyard applies for PDO status

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 03:55:00 EDT

Bob Lindo, joint founder of Camel Valley Vineyards in Cornwall, has submitted the UK�s first single grower application for Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) recognition.

A roaring success for Suduiraut

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:53:00 EDT

October 2011 sees the launch of �Les Lions de Suduiraut� � a new style of wine from Ch�teau Suduiraut, the 1er Cru property that lies in the heart of the Sauternes region of Bordeaux.

Supermarkets reign supreme in wine challenge

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 03:05:00 EDT

The International Wine Challenge (IWC) 2011 bronze, silver, gold and trophy winners have been announced, along with a number of special awards, including supermarket of the year

Snappy dresser to be found in airport shops this sutumn

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 03:04:00 EDT

Champagne Piper-Heidsieck takes a walk on the wild side with another new limited edition bottle called �Bodyguard�. The pack is being let loose in selected travel retail outlets this autumn.

Concerns over lower alcohol products

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 03:00:00 EDT

Research commissioned by the WSTA suggests the wine industry needs to address concerns about quality and taste of lower alcohol wines if it is to attract more consumers to the category.

Chileans push southern boundaries of wine making

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 02:59:00 EDT

Casa Silva expects to announce the commercial release of the first wine from Ranco sometime next year

Novel concept for new wine brand

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 04:02:00 EDT

A new wine brand, Sauvignon.com, is launching in the UK to challenge the way people think about wine and engage with a new generation of consumers. This break-through concept linking wine to web and carrying a strong environmental message is designed to appeal to those put off by the tradition, heritage and perceived old-fashioned elements of many wine brands.

Majestic gets first wine from new Paul Mas estate

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 04:01:00 EDT

Autumn 2011 sees the launch of four new Domaine Paul Mas wines in Majestic including Cr�s Ricards Alexaume from the newly purchased estate Domaine des Cr�s Ricards.

Kingsland gets new South African listing with The Co-operative

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 04:00:00 EDT

August '11: Kingsland Wines and Spirits has secured a new listing with The Co-operative for its Rising River range of wines from South African partners, Rickety Bridge.

Showtime in travel retail

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 03:59:00 EDT

The colour of the red carpet, the glamour of the footlights, the seduction of the French Cancan combines in this limited edition bottle dressed by couturier Jean Paul Gaultier.

Duorum launches first white vintage

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 03:57:00 EDT

The first Tons de Duorum white wine from Portugal has been introduced into the UK market. The 2010 vintage follows on from the success of the Tons de Duorum 2009 red wine, launched last year.

Second sparkling wine symposium

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:47:00 EDT

A �who�s who� of the international sparkling wine world will gather at Denbies Wine Estate in the UK on Tuesday 1st and Wednesday 2nd November 2011 for the second International Sparkling Wine Symposium. The two-day event will focus first on innovation in production and conclude with the commercial aspects of sparkling wine.

Converting the gardeners

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:47:00 EDT

Harveys Bristol Cream sherry converted a number of green-fingered consumers to sherry at this year�s Hampton Court Flower Show.

International Wine Challenge Trophies announced

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:46:00 EDT

Trophies have been awarded to 107 wines and 7 Sakes this year, along with 15 �Great Value Wine� awards.

The ultimate jewel box for wine collectors

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:46:00 EDT

Mo�t Hennessy has launched The Ultimate Collection Box designed by Pablo Reinoso, to showcase the flagship bottles from each of the wineries from its estates and wines portfolio.

Carafe of Champagne

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:45:00 EDT

Billecart Salmon has created a Champagne presentation set that includes the Vintage 2004 Extra Brut and a beautiful carafe

Noval Colheita 1997 in the UK

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:44:00 EDT

Quinta do Noval�s 1997 Colheita port, an aged Tawny, is now available in the UK from agent Gonzalez Byass.

Mo�t &Chandon creates new identity for its Grand Vintages

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:44:00 EDT

Mo�t & Chandon Grand Vintage champagne labels have a new look inspired by the champagne house's time-honoured tradition of using chalk plates to identify the different vintages resting in the cellers deep beneath the ground in Epernay.

UK wine production at record high

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:45:00 EDT

English wine production figures for the 2010 harvest are the highest on record � 30,346 hectolitres, equating to just over 4 million bottles. This breaks a previous record of 3.5m bottles.

New varietals and PE capsule from PET experts

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:44:00 EDT

At the London Inyernational Wine Fair, wine merchants and PET experts Roger Harris Wines and Paul Sapin introducied PE capsules on their small PET wine bottle range to make them fully recyclable.

Organic growth for Free Run Wines

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:43:00 EDT

Free Run Wines has a new organic wine from the the heart of the Minervois. The new blend from the family-owned estate Ch�teau La Reze � Cuv�e Edouard � is the result of a collaborative product development project with UK retailer Tesco.

New vintage releases

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:43:00 EDT

May 2011: Champagne Perrier-Jou�t has released its Cuvee Belle Epoque 2004 and Belle Epoque Blanc de Blancs 2002 in the UK.

UK wine given EU funding

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:42:00 EDT

May 2011: The UK Vineyards Association has secured a significant slice of EU funding to study and benchmark the sustainability of the English and Welsh wine industry.

Mumm Chamgagne introduces Michelin �gourmet tour� neck collar

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:42:00 EDT

Champagne G.H. Mumm has introduced a limited edition, circular neck collar to promote its new �Gourmet Explorers� competition, an initiative designed to heighten awareness of the brand�s long-standing relationship with fine food.

Sparkling Wine Review 2011 now open for entries

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:41:00 EDT

May 2011: The Sparkling Wine Review (SWR) is now open for entries from sparkling wine producers who want to take advantage of this unique and comprehensive benchmarking service, taking place in October.

McGuigan's entire 'shortlist' snatched up by Majestic

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:39:00 EDT

May 2011: Leading Australian producer McGuigan Wines has unveiled the latest addition to its multi award-winning portfolio � The Shortlist.

The Bag-in-(Hand)Bag wine

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:36:00 EDT

Made in Sweden, Vernissage has taken market by storm with this bag in a (handbag-shaped) box packaging for a range of French wines. Last year, it won a gold Pentaward as well Pro Carton's Most Innovative packaging award.

English Ros�s: best in world

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:35:00 EDT

May 2011: Denbies Wine Estate scooped a Gold medal in the International Wine Challenge for its Chalk Ridge Ros� 2010 (rrp �11.99) � the only still ros� to achieve a Gold. And in the sparkling ros� sector, Chapel Down was presented a Gold medal for its Ros� Vintage Reserve Brut NV (rrp �24.99) (pictured below). An unprecedented achievement for English wines.

Champagne on ice � convention is overturned

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 05:34:00 EDT

Mo�t & Chandon has introduced a radical and fun new way to enjoy champagne while outdoors in the sun with the launch of Mo�t Ice Imp�rial: the first champagne specifically designed to be served over ice.

Clarets raise money � and Tower Bridge

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:33:00 EDT

Wine merchant Tony Laithwaite will recreate history in May, when The Irene, a 103ft restored wooden sailing freighter takes to the seas for a 14 day voyage from Bordeaux to London carrying a cargo of 9,072 bottles of a limited edition Claret. The wine will be auctioned for charity.

Piccini Memoro is all Italian

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:32:00 EDT

Famous for its top Tuscan wines, Piccini has taken advantage of the new Vino d�Italia classification to launch Memoro - a blend of classic Italian varietals from throughout the country.

Bourgogne Solidarit� Japon

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:32:00 EDT

More than 2300 bottles of fine Burgundy wine have been donated to charity auction for Japan. Burgundians love Japan and appreciate Japanese culture. Deeply moved by the triple catastrophe which hit Japan on 11 March, they have come forward in large numbers to donate their wines for an auction to be held shortly in aid of the Japanese Red Cross.

Dom P�rignon brings a royal touch to weddings

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:31:00 EDT

Dom P�rignon has created the �ultimate wedding gift� � a wedding box containing 12 bottles of Dom P�rignon Vintage 2000 plus an additional bottle with a precious silver label that can be personalised with the bride and groom�s names and their wedding date. This bottle is encased in a white lacquered box.

Diners enjoy wines with a little piece of art

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:30:00 EDT

Peyton and Byrne�s recently launched restaurant at the Royal Academy of Arts, London, now has an exclusive collection of wines featuring special edition labels designed by famous artists.

Hong Kong auction fails to sell third of fine wine lots

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:30:00 EDT

Christie's auction of "Finest & Rarest Wines" went unsold for around one-third of total lots. Is it a sign that the Chinese market is giving a break to the spectacular strong demand recorded over the last 2 years? Or are Chinese buyers becoming more selective? Or is it a first sign that luxury in China is entering a new era?

The minerality of moonstone

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:25:00 EDT

A mystical and mythical wine, at once full-bodied and with good minerality, the Vougeot Premier Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot lifts the lid on its origins.

Carpineto embraces QR coding

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:24:00 EDT

Carpineto�s first shipment of wines with Quick Response codes on the back label has recently landed on UK shores. Carpineto took the decision to add the QR codes to its most distributed wines in summer 2010 and plans to add them to all products in the near future. Carpineto is the first winery in Montepulciano to adopt the technology.

Frescobaldi launches CastelGiocondo 2006 vintage

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:23:00 EDT

Tuscan winery Marchesi de� Frescobaldi presented the first tasting of its CastelGiocondo Brunello di Montalcino 2006 at the �dei Frescobaldi� restaurant in the new wine and spirits department in Harrods of London.

Two firsts for English Wine

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:22:00 EDT

Tesco has selected its first English wine to be included in its Finest wine range and this year marks the first time English sparkling wines will be featured at Vinitaly in Verona, 7-10 April.

Bi-Centenaire Living Legacy Champagne

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:21:00 EDT

Champagne House Perrier-Jou�t is celebrating 200 years with the introduction of Bi-Centenaire Living Legacy � a champagne vintage chosen for its aging capacity and designed to be passed on to future generations.

Pick of the pinks in Gallo range with launch of Merlot Ros�

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:20:00 EDT

A Merlot Ros� has joined the White Grenache and White Zinfandel in the ros� range from Gallo Family Vineyards.

The Union celebrated by Chapel Down

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:20:00 EDT

English wine producer Chapel Down has released 2011 bottles of a special blend of sparkling wine to mark the Royal Wedding celebrations.

Jean Jean brings brand Languedoc to the UK

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:19:00 EDT

Jeanjean Languedoc with its UK distributor D&D Wines International has created a new wine brand, Maison du Languedoc - the first brand to encompass the entire region.

Fine+Rare announce 400% increase in individuals spending up to �1m on wine in 2010

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:18:00 EDT

Fine+Rare, a specialist Fine Wine broker established in 1994 by Mark Bedini and Bob Cuchet has published statistics on the buying habits of its customers, revealing a 400% increase in the number of individual buyers spending between �500,000 and �1million on fine wines in 2010.

New global players use London as launch pad

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:17:00 EDT

Brintex, organiser of the London International Wine Fair, has announced that two new players in the global wine market, Russia and Lebanon, will be exhibiting at the show at ExCel in May this year for the first time.

Burgundy wines bounce back from economic downturn

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 14:16:00 EDT

It was sudden, severe, and its effects were felt worldwide. Yet Burgundy wines can justifiably speak of the financial crisis in the past tense, having bounced back in all their export markets in 2010. In 12 months, shipments of Burgundy wines were up by 16% compared to 2009.

Klein Constantia moves back to cork

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:08:00 EDT

One of South Africa�s best known vineyards is returning to natural cork to seal it�s premier wine Perdeblokke Sauvignon Blanc, which is exported globally.

Brancott gets into jewellery

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:04:00 EDT

In an unusual move for a wine brand, Brancott Estate has commissioned Sarah Herriot, an award-winning New Zealand-born jewellery designer, to create a range of bespoke accessories inspired by the Marlborough vineyards.

Bota Box launches line in 500ml Tetra Pak cartons

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 14:03:00 EDT

Bota Box � a subsidiary of DFV Wines that produces premium Californian wines in "eco-friendly" 3litre boxes that are made from unbleached, post-consumer fiber printed with soy-based inks� has introduced 500ml Tetra Pak cartons for its most popular varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay. Each priced at $4.99.

LGI Extends three retail ranges

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EDT

Languedoc-based LGI-Alain Grignon Wines has extended three of its key UK retail ranges - Cuv�e de Richard, Montgravet and Les Crouzes - with the new wines joining current offerings in Majestic, Waitrose and Co-op during March-May 2011.

Matthew Clark launches 200 new wines

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:54:00 EDT

Matthew Clark, the on-trade drinks supplier has introduced 200 new wines to its 2011/2012 wine list � some brand new to the UK and exclusive. Ian Smith, Matthew Clark�s commercial director discusses some of the new wines and suppliers

L'id�e folle from Domaine du Tariquet

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:54:00 EDT

French for 'crazy idea', l'id�e folle is a new fortified wine produced by the Grassa family at Domaine du Tariquet in Gascony, South West France.

Gallo introduces Summer Red wine for serving chilled

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:53:00 EDT

Gallo Family Vineyards Summer Red has been specifically created to be enjoyed well chilled. Although chilling certain red wines is not a new idea for many seasoned wine drinkers, Gallo claims Summer Red is the first of its kind and it is aimed at a mass market that is relatively new to wine

Red wine drinkers could provide the key to saving pubs, bars and restaurants

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:52:00 EDT

Red wine drinkers spend �17.68 each time they go out, more than any other type of drinker, according to new research published by the Wilson Drinks Report (WDR).

Scared shoppers choose wine by colour before special offers or price

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:51:00 EDT

But only 3% choose the brand first, and grape variety is more important than country of origin

Sparkling Blanc de Noir

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:51:00 EDT

Cava producer, Codorn�u, has introduced a �Blanc de Noirs� from Pinot Noir as the 2008 vintage of Reina Maria Cristina Reserva Vintage (RRP �14.99).

Two Italian producers join Stratford�s

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:50:00 EDT

Cantine Calatrasi (Sicily and Puglia) and Sensi (Tuscany) have joined the Stratford�s portfolio.

Barruoi joins Bibendum

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:49:00 EDT

Rhone Valley Chateau de Saint Cosme is to distribute its wines in the UK exclusively through Bibendum.

African artist joins bottle collection

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:49:00 EDT

Senegalese Amadou Sow is the latest artist to be commissioned by Taittinger to create a limited edition bottle, this time for the 2002 Vintage. The new bottle will be available from late March priced �175 from wine merchants and prestige retailers.

Vertical tasting of non-vintage champagne

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:48:00 EDT

Six different releases of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label were revealed by Chef de Caves Dominique Demarville to wine writers in London on 8 March. The tasting, which spanned more than 50 years of Yellow Label winemaking demonstrated the brand's quality and consistency of the style.

New global players use LIWF as launch pad

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:47:00 EDT

Blue Nun is revitalised

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:47:00 EDT

The Blue Nun wine range, owned by Langguth Wines, has been relaunched with a fresher fruitier flavour and up-dated packaging design.

Turkish wine-makers stage London event

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 11:33:00 EDT

Turkish wines are returning to London following their success at last year's London International Wine Fair.

A first fine white from Francois Lurton

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 11:24:00 EDT

Fran�ois Lurton, impressed with the Burgundy-style local white wines in the Valley d�Algy decided to take the fruit from the old forgotten white vines at his Mas Janeil estate and produce a fine white wine with the capacity to age � the �Traou de l�Ouille�, white C�te de Roussillon. The 2009 is its first vintage.

Chateau Civrac introduces Element 2009

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 11:23:00 EDT

Element is a single varietal Merlot made from the 2009 Chateau Civrac harvest in C�tes de Bourg, Bordeaux. It is a light and very fruity wine with a light oak finish. Element is only 12% with an RRP of �7.99.

Skalli targets UK with new Corsican wine brand

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 11:23:00 EDT

Southern French winemaker, Skalli, is targeting the UK off-trade with a new Corsican wine brand.

New Sauvignon Blanc for UK Co-op

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 11:22:00 EDT

Kingsland Wines and Spirits is launching a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc exclusively for The Co-operative under The Watcher brand

Johnson joins Precept

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:27:00 EDT

Miles Johnson has joined Seattle-based Precept Wine Brands as marketing director. In this newly created position, Johnson will oversee Precept Wine Brands� premium portfolio led by Waterbrook, Apex Cellars, Willow Crest, Alder Ridge and Browne Family Vineyards.

BBC series highlights front-of-house skills

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:25:00 EDT

On 12 January 2011, a new eight-part series is due to begin on BBC2 called Michel Roux's Service. The programme follows the progress over six months of eight raw recruits setting out to train in front-of-house.

Botanical mix for oak aging

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:51:00 EDT

Cognac Ferrand has introduced Citadelle Gin Reserve Vintage 2010. This is the third year that the Cognac house has produced a Citadelle Gin Reserve but this is first with a combination of botanicals specially selected for oak aging � using violet and iris for flower aromatics and grains of paradise for spice.

Crystal-encrusted bottles for Sydney TR

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:49:00 EDT

Airport retailer Nuance and Bacardi Global Travel Retail are offering travellers at Sydney Airport the opportunity to buy one of only four Bombay Sapphire bottles hand-decorated with 10,000 Swarovski crystals.

Whisky SIVQ initiative

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:48:00 EDT

Skills Development Scotland has teamed up with the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) to provide funding aimed at encouraging an additional 200 whisky workers to gain a Spirit Industry Vocational Qualification (SIVQ).

New Armagnac gift pack and new distributor

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:48:00 EDT

Independent distributor Malcolm Cowen (Drinks) is now distributing a substantial range of diverse Armagnacs from Ryst-Dupeyro, including the recently launched Private Collection in modern Kendo bottles and a new three-bottle gift pack (pictured) containing Napoleon, Hors d'Age and XO qualities for those wanting to discover the diversity between the different aged blends.

Rare Cognac launches in travel retail

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:47:00 EDT

Bacardi Global Travel Retail Division is launching Baron Otard�s rarest Cognac � Fortis et Fidelis � into select travel retail outlets worldwide (RRP US$4,500).

The Dalmore presents its 'most heavenly' limited edition

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:47:00 EDT

Dalmore Eos 59 year old single malt is named after the Titan goddess of the dawn who every morning, legend has it, opened the gates of heaven (read as the distillery�s warehouse doors).

Seasonal slow bottling

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:45:00 EDT

Glengoyne Distillery has released on December 28 its �slowest ever� bottling (taking over four years to complete).

Sustainably produced wines boast elegance and refinement

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:45:00 EDT

International wine experts see a trend towards sustainable, ecologically aware wine cultivation as well as a stronger focus on an elegant and refined style. In business terms international supply in 2011 is expected to be better adapted to demand after a reduced 2010 vintage, reports J�rgen Matth��

Michael Mondavi wines launched in UK by Bibendum

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:44:00 EDT

Michael Mondavi, one of the best known names in Californian wine, has launched his new range of Napa Cabernets in the UK market in partnership with Bibendum Wine.

Romanian wine refreshed

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:43:00 EDT

La Umbra (meaning �in the shade�) is a new era of fresh, fruit driven wines being launched by Halewood Romania, following significant investment in planting international grape varieties and using international winemaking techniques.

Tesco and Yellow Tail go for Zorc

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 05:21:00 EDT

A new style of re-sealable cap for sparkling wine is being debuted this month in the UK at Tesco stores. It is also en-route to the US in time for the holiday celebrations having been adopted by Australian wine brand, Yelllow Tail Bubbles.

Redesigns to lift brand image and project quality

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 05:19:00 EDT

Amsterdam and London based international branding and packaging design consultancy, Cartils, has completed label redesigns for two prestigious wine brands � one in Tuscany, one in Bordeaux.

Sparkling wines benchmarked

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 12:14:00 EDT

Eight internationally renowned wine experts gathered at Denbies Wine Estate on November 9 for the inaugural Sparkling Wine Review to benchmark sparkling wines from 13 different regions across the world

Still drinkable 200-year-old shipwreck Champagnes are identified and being re-corked

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 10:58:00 EDT

Archaeologists have determined that some of the champagne recovered from a shipwreck at the bottom of the Baltic Sea come from the Maison Juglar, which had ceased production by the end of the 1820s. Several bottles have also been identified as Veuve Clicquot from the branding of the corks

New wine scheme for English and Welsh wines

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 08:58:00 EDT

The UK Vineyards Association (UKVA) has unveiled the new wine schemes for English and Welsh still wines, in line with the wine regime changes implemented by the EU. A new wine scheme for sparkling wines will be introduced.

Cowhorn Winery launches The RINSE Project

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 08:55:00 EDT

Boutique biodynamic wine estate, Cowhorn in southern Oregon, is partnering Wine Bottle Renew to pioneer The RINSE Project in the Applegate Valley region, a bioregional program that closes the loop on wine bottle waste.

Chile's largest exporter moves into lightweight glass

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 08:55:00 EDT

Chilean wine producer Concha y Toro is reducing its carbon emissions with lighter bottles for its Casillero del Diablo wines.

Winning labels

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 08:54:00 EDT

Marisco Vineyards in New Zealand has been awarded Best Label in Show at the International Aromatic Wine Competition for its The Kings Favour Sauvignon Blanc and The Kings Thorn Pinot Gris.

Alain Grignon launches Les Crouzes Ros�

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 08:07:00 EDT

Languedoc-based LGI-Alain Grignon Wines has released a ros� addition to its Les Crouzes brand. The new wine joins the original Vielles Vignes Carignan red, launched last year, and both are exclusive to the Co-op at RRP �4.99.

New white in Yali�s National Reserve range

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 08:07:00 EDT

Chilean producer Vi�a Ventisquero has expanded its eco-friendly Yali range with the addition of a Viognier. The Yali National Reserve Viognier 2010 has already achieved a listing in Majestic at RRP �7.99 from October.

New varietal from Redwood Creek

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 08:07:00 EDT

Californian wine brand, Redwood Creek has added a new line to its UK portfolio with the launch of a Pinot Noir.

Nyetimber produces first ros�

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 08:06:00 EDT

Nyetimber, the Sussex-based English vineyard, is pre-releasing its first Ros� as a limited edition of 1,500 bottles, each individually numbered by hand on a one-off label created especially for the soft launch.

Cienna Rosso sparkling wine launched by Brown Brothers

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 12:25:00 EDT

Brown Brothers, the Australian family winery, has launched the first sparkling wine to be made from the red grape Cienna.

Ridgeview wins packaging award

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:24:00 EDT

Ridgeview Estate was presented with the Montagu Trophy for the �Best Presented Wine� at The English & Welsh Wine of the Year Competition 2010. The award, sponsored by label producer Avery Denison, acknowledges a key part of any wine producing business � that of packaging and presentation.

Investing in wine ... Can there be a better tax shelter?

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:23:00 EDT

Report by Richard Holme and Ola Majcherczyk from accountancy firm Creaseys

English sparkling ros� judged as the best in the world

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:23:00 EDT

Camel Valley Vineyard in Cornwall, England has left Champagne on the sidelines by scooping a top prize: the World Sparkling Ros� Trophy in the International Wine Challenge (IWC).

Consorzio Tuscania joins O2inWines

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:22:00 EDT

O2inWines, the international association of oxygen management in wines, has welcomed its 18th member, Consorzio Tuscania, a group of 13 major wine companies from Tuscany, Italy.

Nine New Masters of Wine Announced

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:22:00 EDT

The Institute of Masters of Wine has admitted nine new Masters of Wine to its membership following the results of its 2010 examination. The news brings the total number of Masters of Wine in the world to 289, who are resident in 23 different countries

Possibly the world's oldest Champagne found

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:20:00 EDT

According to a BBC news report, divers have found 30 bottles of champagne thought to pre-date the French Revolution on the Baltic seabed.

Ros� sales continue to grow

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:19:00 EDT

Ros� wines continue to grow in popularity with figures for Britain's bars, clubs and restaurants showing ros� wine sales have risen by over 20% in value in the last year.

Piat d�Or launches Sauvignon Blanc

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:19:00 EDT

Piat d�Or, aims to capitalise on the current popularity of Sauvignon Blanc with the launch of Piat d�Or Sauvignon Blanc 2009 this month (July).

Flooding in Provence: the aftermath

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:27:00 EDT

Tom Schreckinger, Chateau d�Esclans, reports on the ensuing havoc the rain storm wreaked on the Var.

Winemakers in France's 'Wild West' champion diversity and creativity

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:08:00 EDT

Felicity Murray reports on some of the innovative products and packaging formats emerging from the dynamic Languedoc-Roussillon region in the South of France

Tagus Creek is redesigned with braille and QR coding

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:07:00 EDT

Portuguese wine company Falua Sociedade de Vinhos has unveiled a new label design for Tagus Creek which includes braille and QR technology

Turning Leaf links with fashion design

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:06:00 EDT

California wine brand Turning Leaf has entered into a strategic partnership with fashion house Basso & Brooke for Spring/Summer 2010.

New sparkling, new look

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:05:00 EDT

UK winery Denbies has a new premium sparkling cuv�e, Cubitt Reserve 2006, a 100% Pinot blanc de noir, made in the traditional secondary fermentation method with 8g per litre dosage. The wine has already been acknowledged by leading masters of wine as an exceptional cuv�e, perfect for laying down.

Kingsland boxes NZ Sauvignon Blanc

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:05:00 EDT

Kingsland Wines and Spirits is launching a bag-in-box 1.5ltr Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc under the Runestone brand, which will be sold through The Co-operative from June (RRP �10).

New analyzer for measuring oxygen exposure

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:04:00 EDT

Alternative wine closure producer Nomacorc has introduced NomaSense O2 Prime, a new product engineered to measure oxygen exposure specifically during bottling.

Australian Semillon Blanc is the new New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:03:00 EDT

Neil McGuigan, the multiple award-winning winemaker and new interim CEO for Australian Vintage, talks to Felicity Murray about his plan to revolutionise the Australian wine category

The ultimate lightweight single serve

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:03:00 EDT

Italian producer Oneglass Wine presented at the LIWF its stylishly packaged range of four IGT wines in 100ml paper packets that weigh just 110g (10g when empty). The foil-lined pocket-sized pack stands firm on a gusset base but is sealed flat at the neck making it easy to tear open and pour into a glass. The graphics are modern, clear and simple to appeal to the young, image-conscious consumer. RRP �1.80. Shelf life 12 months.

Consumers spending more on wine to drink at home

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 06:02:00 EDT

The latest research commissioned by the Wine & Spirit Trade Association shows consumers are willing to spend more on a bottle of wine to drink at home. In fact the last year has seen a 30% increase in the number of regular wine drinkers paying more than �7 per bottle of wine for domestic consumption. The average price of a bottle of wine in the off-trade is �4.32.

Euphoria-inducing Pinot Noir

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:12:00 EDT

Boisset has added a �euphoria-inducing� AOC Bourgogne Pinot Noir to its Jean-Claude Boisset range. Jean-Charles Boisset describes the vinification process as a �closely-guarded secret stemming from several years of research".

Sparkling ros� from Sir Cliff

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:12:00 EDT

Chali� Richards will be releasing in May a limited volume of Vida Nova Espumante Ros� � the first sparkling wine from Cliff Richard�s Adega do Cantor winery in the Algarve, Portugal.

Tariquet launches Marselan Ros�

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:11:00 EDT

The Grassa family at Domaine du Tariquet in Gascony, South West France will be launching a 2009 ros� wine made from the Marselan grape, at the London International Wine Fair (stand G71) this year.

Corpora launch new brands into US premium market

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:11:00 EDT

VC Family Estates, a branch of the Corpora Group, in partnership with US marketing company Deutsch & Son, has launched a Chilean Llai LLai Bio Bio Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and an Argentinian Ruta 22 Patagonia Malbec.

Wines of India debut at the LIWF 2010

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:10:00 EDT

In another first for the London International Wine Fair, a group of leading wineries from India will showcase Brand India. The India Pavillion (D40) at LIWF 2010 is the initiative of the newly formed Indian Grape Processing Board. This is the first participation on a collective platform in Europe by wineries from India, the new �New World�.

LIWF preview with a focus on packaging

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:08:00 EDT

The Drinks Report highlights some of the wine packaging initiatives to be found on the stands at the London International Wine Fair this year.

Organic wine producer favours Tetra Pak's eco-credentialsCalifornia Natural Products, a manufacturer and custom packer for some of California�s leading wine producers, has introduced a Chardonnay in Tetra Pak cartons.

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:08:00 EDT

California Natural Products, a manufacturer and custom packer for some of California�s leading wine producers, has introduced a Chardonnay in Tetra Pak cartons.

M&S commits to PET

Mon, 10 May 2010 12:06:00 EDT

Marks and Spencer is moving all its 25cl still wines out of glass and into multi-layer long-life PET bottles from Paul Sapin.

Bernard Magrez buys Douro vineyard

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:24:00 EDT

After 15 years of research, winemaker Bernard Magrez has purchased a new vineyard in the northern part of the Douro Valley between the Tua and Douro rivers.

Jacob�s Creek unveils its Taste campaign

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:24:00 EDT

The next stage in Pernod Ricard UK's True Character campaign for its Jacob�s Creek wine brand will see the launch of a �taste� programme.

Vi�a Casa Silva gives a positive post earthquake harvest report

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:23:00 EDT

Just seven days after the big earthquake hit Chile, Vi�a Casa Silva reported it was 100% operational again. Harvesting began less than 48 hours after the quake and bottling started 72 hours after that. Mario Pablo Silva, the company�s MD says: �We are doing our best to keep working which is the key for a quick recovery for everyone in Chile.

Wine community leaders to explore global connections in Bordeaux

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:22:00 EDT

Leading figures from the global wine community will gather in Bordeaux, France, in June for the seventh and largest international symposium staged by the Institute of Masters of Wine.

The Champagne harvest 2009

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:22:00 EDT

Was it a good vintage year? Benoit Gouez and Dominique Demarville, the chefs de caves at Moet & Chandon and Veuve Clicuot, give their thoughts on the 2009 Champagne harvest.

Bottle Green shows Italian style with two new wines

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:21:00 EDT

Bottle Green will be pushing its Italian portfolio this year and will start by showcasing a range of new wines at Vinitaly in April.

Snoqualmie gets �Naked�

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:20:00 EDT

Stratford�s Wine Agencies has launched Snoqualmie �Naked� organic wines into the UK.

Quality benchmark for Romanian Wines

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:10:00 EDT

Romanian Winegrowers members are to take part in a benchmarking initiative to identify a Hero Selection of wines across a range of price points and categories.

Support for Chile

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:05:00 EDT

Laithwaites Wine is donating 5% of sales on all Chilean wines during March to the Chilean Embassy earthquake appeal.

Wines from Rioja sponsor the Club Elite

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:04:00 EDT

Club Elite is a VIP invitation-only area at the LIWF, reserved for the top international wine buyers and leading industry decision makers.

English Wines in the highlight

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:03:00 EDT

The English Wine Producers (EWP) showcase event for the UK wine industry, aptly held on St George�s Day (April 23), sees its members� wines highlighted alongside smaller, boutique wineries from the country�s six regions.

Dom P�rignon releases two vintage ros�s

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:03:00 EDT

Champagne producer Dom P�rignon has launched a ros� vintage 2000, its first ros� this decade, together with the first mature vintage ros� Champagne in its �noth�que Collection � Dom P�rignon �noth�que Ros� 1990.

Premium look for global Freixenet launch

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:02:00 EDT

Branding and design company Holmes & Marchant has created a new design for Spanish wine company Freixenet�s Brut Nature Vintage Reserva.

Champagne loses out to sparkling

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 08:01:00 EDT

Consumers are switching from Champagne to sparkling wine, with three in 10 Champagne or sparkling wine drinkers admitting that they drink sparkling wine rather than Champagne in order to save money, according to new Mintel research.

Blossom Hill invests in Pinot Grigio

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:26:00 EDT

Blossom Hill has developed a new Californian Pinot Grigio to capitalise on the increasing consumer demand in the UK for this grape variety.

Co-op adds M Sparkling NV

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:25:00 EDT

Australian Vintage has launched a sparkling wine in association with UK multiple grocer, the Co-operative.

Bordeaux umbrella wine range launch

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:24:00 EDT

Producta, Bordeaux�s largest wine producer and its UK agent, Thierry�s, will be launching a major new umbrella range, Baron de Bordeaux at the France Under One Roof tasting in London on Wednesday March 10 at Lord�s.

Veuve Clicquot releases first vintages in Cave Priv�e range

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 06:27:00 EDT

Veuve Clicquot has unveiled a "new vintage champagne philosophy" with the re-release of a range of rare, mature vintage champagnes in the Cave Priv�e Collection � exactly 200 years after Madame Clicquot created the first champagne from grapes of only one harvest

Self-adhesive labels offer a broad canvas for designers in the wine industry

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 06:26:00 EDT

As increasing numbers of people around the world are discovering a taste for wine and exploring the immense choice of styles now available, never before has label design had such an important role to play. Felicity Murray investigates the visual and functional advantages of purpose-made self-adhesive labels

Creative Block launched in UK

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 06:23:00 EDT

South African producer Spier has begun UK distribution (on- and off-trade) of its new Creative Block range through PLB Wines. The range was inspired by the arts and is named after the Creative Block project � a Spier initiative whereby blank canvasses are transformed by established and emerging South African artists.

Wine label design trends

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 06:15:00 EDT

Brigitte Evrard co-founder of Pentawards, the international packaging design competition, observed from the 2009 entries a number of important labelling trends � particularly in the wine category where five remarkably distinct trends appeared.

The Wine Gang select Top 100 sparkling wines

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 06:26:00 EDT

The 13th London International Wine Fair, which takes place from May 18 � 20, will once again feature the Top 100 wines selected by The Wine Gang - this year featuring 30 sparkling wines and 70 regional ambassadors, selected for their expression of variety and terroir.

Waitrose takes award-winning Casillero del Diablo Malbec

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 06:24:00 EDT

Chilean wine producer Concha y Toro has released Casillero del Diablo 2008 Malbec

The Bandit is released in UK

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 06:24:00 EDT

Constellation Europe is introducing a new range of wines into the UK from Australia's Houghton Winery, part of its Premium Estates portfolio.

Great expectations and boundless opportunities

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:54:00 EDT

Chile is a wine-producing country with seemingly endless potential with new labels from new plantings in previously unexplored territories. Following her recent visit, Felicity Murray brings a the first in a series of reports from the north to the south of the country.

Montana gets packaging revamp

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 09:25:00 EDT

Montana is kick-starting its marketing activities for 2010 with the rollout of new packaging across its Classic and Reserve ranges.

New labelling for De Bortoli Deen Vat Series

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 09:23:00 EDT

Australian winery, De Bortoli, has new labels for its Deen Vat Series range, which will be on shelf from late February 2010.

Research to find best Carmen�re for Chilean wine

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 09:22:00 EDT

Colchagua-based Vi�a Casa Silva, is undertaking a major research project to identify for the best clone of Carmen�re for producing top quality wines in Chile.

Chilean wines outperform market in UK

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:02:00 EDT

Nielsen figures for Q4 09 indicate that wine sales in the UK have been fairly resilient during what has been a challenging economic year. �But some wine regions have faired better than others

English sparkle in Italy

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 10:37:00 EDT

English vineyard Nyetimber ended 2009 on a high note as it enjoyed its best ever harvest and another major first prize on the international stage.

Two cuv�es presented in PET glasses

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:49:00 EDT

Grand Cru Class� C�tes de Provence Ch�teau Roubine has gone on sale in the UK on-trade in foil-sealed 175ml PET single serve ready-to-drink glasses manufactured by 1/4 Vin.

Theirry's expands NZ offer

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 06:48:00 EDT

UK wine importer Thierry�s has expanded its New Zealand portfolio and taken on the new ultra-premium Tiki range from McKean Estates in Marlborough�s Wairau Alpine Valley. The company is also launching its own Four Ships label

Lighter Australian wine launch from Constellation

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 06:46:00 EDT

Constellation Europe will be showing for the first time two new wines from Banrock Station at this year�s Wine Australia Annual Trade Tasting in London in February.

The world's first 100% carbon neutral wine range

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EDT

Taylors Wines in the Clare Valley (also known as Wakefield Wines in the UK) claims its Eighty Acres range of wines is the first in the world to become 100% carbon neutral based on a life cycle assessment model compliant to ISO14044.

Clink Wines in NZ joint venture with Kiwi-Oeno

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 09:35:00 EDT

Clink Wines has formed a global joint venture with award-winning winemaker, Matt Thomson, MD Kiwi-Oeno. With the aim of injecting �innovation and excitement into a tiring single varietal category,� The Paddler will be the venture�s first launch, with a strategic focus on exclusive, popular varietals not readily available from New Zealand.

Green winemaking charter created by Dauga

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:26:00 EDT

Single-minded Bordeaux wine consultant Olivier Dauga has taken a leading role in ensuring Bordeaux reaches its commitment towards reduction in carbon emissions. As an influential consultant in the region, working with over 30 properties, Dauga is using his role to convince wine producers to adopt a more environmental-friendly approach to their winemaking.

WJ Deutsch announces joint venture with Corpora

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 14:21:00 EDT

WJ Deutsch & Sons, a leading US importer and marketer of wines and spirits, is partnering Corpora Group, the pioneers of the Bio Bio region of Chile and the Patagonia region of Argentina, in a joint venture to launch a brand from each of these emerging wine regions in South America.

New tricks as pair start out in wine trade

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:27:00 EDT

Chix Chandaria, a former Bollywood dancer, and Dan Roebuck, a former mining engineer, have formed Hix & Buck to �to import exclusive, quality wines from undiscovered vineyards in France.�

The root of noble wines unearthed

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 06:04:00 EDT

Scientists in Cambridge have discovered that a lowly grape variety grown by peasants � but despised by noblemen � during the Middle Ages was the mother of many of today�s greatest grape varieties, including the Chardonnay used in Champagne.

Wines that don�t Costco the earth

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EDT

South African producer Stark-Cond� has a new range of wines in the UK � Bellow�s Rock � exclusively, and rather unusually, through Costco UK.

TV ad campaign for Jacobs Creek

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:29:00 EDT

Pernod Ricard UK has a new, high impact advertising campaign for Jacob�s Creek, the UK�s number one wine brand. �True Character� forms part of a marketing campaign which will be rolled out throughout 2010 both above-the-line and below-the-line.

Breathable wine glasses launched

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:28:00 EDT

German glass wear manufacturer Eisch Glaskultur has teamed up with Ronn Wiegand to launch the Ronn Wiegand Signature series of breathable wine glasses.

Wine for 2 bottles encourage responsible drinking

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:27:00 EDT

Roger Harris Wines and Paul Sapin have introduced a selection of wines in 50cl glass bottles under the banner of Wine for 2.

Blossom Hill�s winter ros�

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:25:00 EDT

One of the UK's top-seling wine brands, Blossom Hill, has launched a white Zinfandel limited edition Christmas label

PET bottle push for organic wine

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:24:00 EDT

A major push to bottle Sud de France organic wines in PET has been launched, thanks to strategic financing from the Languedoc-Roussillon regional government.

Full house expected at German fair

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:21:00 EDT

ProWein, the annual international wine and spirits trade fair (March 21-23, Dusseldorf, Germany) is very close to being sold out, the organiser says, with all of the world's relevant wine growing regions and more than 40 nations represented. For a flavour of what to expect, read the regional trend reports . . .

Geothermic energy first for Rioja producer

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 04:57:00 EDT

Bodegas Regal�a de Ollauri has become the first winery in the world to exploit geothermic energy for production of its wine

New Zealand label changes ownership

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:26:00 EDT

The Aotea range of wines easily identified by the bold symbol of the silver fern of New Zealand is now in the hands of Hermann and Agnes Seifried of Seifried Estate wines in Nelson, New Zealand.

New UK market strategy for Spier

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:24:00 EDT

Stellenbosch-based producer Spier has launched an aggressive push into the on-trade, with the introduction of a restructured and extended premium on-trade portfolio.

Vina Pomal celebrates its centenary with a new look and new name

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:45:00 EDT

Grupo Codorn�u wine brand Vi�a Pomal, from the Bodegas Bilba�nas winery in Rioja, celebrates its centenary this month (November 09). To mark this occasion the winery has created a new look and a new name for its Vi�a Pomal Reserva.

Winners of the international 'Best Of' wine tourism awards

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 07:51:00 EDT

Check out the full list of winners for 2011

Dressed for dinner

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 10:15:00 EDT

Champagne G.H. Mumm has an added value gift pack for dinner partygoers wanting to take their hosts an attractively packaged ready-chilled bottle.

Champagne from a shoe

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 10:13:00 EDT

R�my Cointreau Global Travel Retail revealed at TFWA World Exhibition a unique presentation of Champagne Piper-Heidsieck Brut, which evokes an erotic ritual made famous in the late 19th century when Paris was the capital of glamour and pleasure.

Freixenet introduces premium Cava in bottles designed by Holmes &Marchant.

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:44:00 EDT

Called Elyssia, the Cavas have been created as a super-premium addition to Spanish wine maker Freixenet�s famous opaque black bottle Cordon Negro Cava collection.

Big brand Chilean wine for UK market

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:43:00 EDT

Constellation Europe is launching Gran Tierra, which it says fills the gap in the UK market for a mainstream Chilean wine with a name that�s easy to recall, packaging that stands out and is recognisable again and again, and a competitive price point to drive repeat purchases.

All DOC Prosecco labels change to DOCG from April

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:41:00 EDT

Following the creation of DOCG status in Italy, the Consorzio Tutela Prosecco di Conegliano Valdobbiadene has decided to change all the labels for the sparkling wine for producers of current DOC to the top quality status of DOCG from April 1, 2010. This change will be formerly presented by the consorzio at Vinitaly 2010.

Trefethen selected for USA Today Wine Club launch

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:37:00 EDT

Trefethen Double T Chardonnay has been selected as the featured wine for the inaugural launch of the USA Today Wine Club.

Reisling taste profile spreads

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:37:00 EDT

The New York-based International Riesling Foundation (IRF)has announced that its Riesling taste profile has been taken up by more growers in Australia, New Zealand and the US.

Label colour and shape preferences researched

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:36:00 EDT

Wine consumers rely mainly on the label on the bottle to infer the quality of its content. But there is little empirical research on how colours can be interacted with shapes in the design of wine labels.

Personalised labels offered by Irish online wine merchant

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:35:00 EDT

An Irish on-line wine merchant has created a user interface which will allow website visitors worldwide to select a label or theme and create a personal message which can then be printed on a label and sold with or without wine depending on requirements.

Jeanjean and Laroche merger set to create new market leader in quality wine market

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:33:00 EDT

The JeanJean and Laroche Groups signed an agreement on September 22 to implement their full merger in the coming months.

Bubble study in the air

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:32:00 EDT

Champagne Taittinger is taking MWs up in a hot air ballon on a bubble research mission. Why?

Peter Symington retires

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:26:00 EDT

Peter Symington, widely recognised as the greatest taster of his generation and a living legend in the Port world, where he is known by many as �the nose� has retired.

Hardys launch Bin 53 range

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:25:00 EDT

Constellation Europe has launched a special release range - Hardys Bin 53 - to celebrate the year 1853 when Thomas Hardy established his first winery on the banks of the River Torrens, Adelaide, Australia.

Wine launch in long life PET

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:24:00 EDT

A new range of South African wines packaged in lightweight long-life PET is being launched by Roger Harris Wines and PaulSapin at the South African Mega Tasting in London on October 13.

Micro-terroir differences explained

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:02:00 EDT

A three year research study undertaken by Colchagua terroir specialists Vi�a Casa Silva with the University of Talca has pinpointed the reasons why vines growing under �seemingly similar� conditions in one vineyard have a different quality potential

Half bottles found to be a popular option

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EDT

Jacob�s Creek is making 50cl versions of its tri-varietal wine range Three Vines available from mid-September. The range has been developed in response to the results of a Jacob�s Creek-commissioned consumer study and �Wine Intelligence� research.

Two new Makana wines launched into UK market

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:26:00 EDT

South African producer, Cape First Wines, has made two new additions to its Makana brand

Wines to meet demand for lower alcohol levels

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:26:00 EDT

With a prevailing consumer shift towards healthier living and more responsible drinking, Languedoc-Roussillon-based Domaines Auriol has created a new generation of wines with fewer calories and lower alcohol levels compared to traditional wines.

Dressed up for Christmas

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 06:29:00 EDT

Tokaj producer Diszn�k� is offering its Asz� 5 puttonyos 2001 in a cream and blue gift box

Freixenet introduces premium Cava in bottles designed by Holmes &Marchant

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 05:01:00 EDT

Called Elyssia, the Cavas have been created as a super-premium addition to Spanish wine maker Freixenet�s famous opaque black bottle Cordon Negro Cava collection.

Romain Henry wins UK sommelier award

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 05:00:00 EDT

The Sud de France UK Sommelier of the Year competition has been won by 26 year-old Frenchman Romain Henry of Gordon Ramsay�s Maze restaurant �

Wine in can launch for Russian market

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:49:00 EDT

Marine Express, a wine distributor in Russia, has chosen 250ml slim cans for the launch of its Elsa wine-in-can brand.�

Blossom Hill in �2m UK ad spend

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:34:00 EDT

Blossom Hill has a new �2million advertising campaign in the UK, which it says �breaks the mould of conventional wine advertising�. Incorporating television, radio and in-store POS, it will reach an estimated 75% of Blossom Hill�s target audience of women between the ages of 25 and 44

New on the menu from Berberana

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:33:00 EDT

Spainish wine brand Berberana has introduced a mid-priced �popular premium� range called Carta de Plata and classified as Vino de la Tierra de Castilla.

Australian wine company bucks the trend

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:45:00 EDT

Australian Vintage has announced positive year end results with post-tax profits of Aus$4.3m and sales up 9 per cent � bucking the industry trend that saw Australian wine sales steady and export sales value down 10 per cent.

Diageo results show resilience but reflect trend

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:44:00 EDT

Global sales figures remain stubbornly flat across the drinks sector with premium spirits brands suffering the most � a trend reflected in Diageo�s year-end results causing the giant to revise its forecasts for the current financial year. Although operating profits had crept up 4% to �2.6bn, Diageo admits that underlying sales were on the whole flat and pre-tax profits were slightly down, thanks in part to restructuring costs.

Pernod Ricard reports Absolut success

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:43:00 EDT

Pernod Ricard reports that within a difficult economic climate the group has performed well over the 2008/09 financial year with 9% organic sales growth to �7,203m, and a net profit in excess of �1bn, up 13% � bolstered by the successful integration of Absolut (US sales up 51% compared with 1% in Europe) and significant debt reductions.

Patrick Piana is appointed CEO of R�my Martin

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:42:00 EDT

Patrick Piana has joined R�my Cointreau as CEO of R�my Martin.w

Private equity buys into Vinfolio

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:41:00 EDT

Fine wine marketplace Vinfolio has raised US$4.5 million in a funding round led by Panorama Capital. Prior to this, the company had been funded by private investors.

Scotland changes alcohol licensing rules

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:39:00 EDT

Scottish consumers face big changes in how they can buy alcohol from shops as new licensing rules come into force

Trends report: UK alcohol consumption

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:35:00 EDT

UK consumers may be drinking less overall, but with more units of alcohol per drink it seems Brits are consuming more alcohol than ever before according to new research from Mintel: Brits don't know their own strength.

Neil McGuigan named White Winemaker of the Year

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:34:00 EDT

The international wine trade paid tribute to leading Australian winemaker Neil McGuigan was named White Winemaker of the Year at the prestigious International Wine Challenge in London.

Women winemakers undaunted by French wine�s woes

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:32:00 EDT

French wine producers may not have much to rejoice about (French wine sales in the UK have dropped 6.5 per cent in the last year, but deep down in the south of France, Languedoc-Roussillon�s Sud de France brand is pushing hard to make inroads at this tricky time

Brown Brothers hand UK logistics to Cert Octavian

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:31:00 EDT

Family owned South East Australian wine producer Brown Brothers has agreed a five year contract with logistics provider Cert Octavian.

Improved wine quality and new packaging

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:31:00 EDT

E & J Gallo Winery has launched the 2008 vintages of its flagship Gallo Family Vineyards range with new label designs on lightweight glass bottles with screwcap closures.

WMS gives Tesco.com customers a better service

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:30:00 EDT

UK retailer Tesco�s Wine by the Case has bought a warehouse management solution from US supply chain consultants Manhattan Associates for its UK fulfilment centre at Brackmills, Northampton.

Wente Family appoints Fells in UK

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:27:00 EDT

California winegrower Wente Family Estates has appointed John E Fells & Sons as its exclusive UK importer and distributor.

German fairs to run back-to-back for first time

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:26:00 EDT

Two leading German wine industry trade shows have been arranged to be held back-to-back next year for the first time to allow industry professionals, international exhibitors and attendees to conveniently and easily attend both.

Lights, camera, Bordeaux!

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:17:00 EDT

A marketing initiative to support Bordeaux sales in the UK has been launched. A partnership between Bordeaux Wine Council and www.lovefilm.com begins in September offering exclusive free membership to the online film library, and Bordeaux wine gifts, for those collecting the special on-pack promotion. UK retailers Waitrose, Sainsbury�s, Morrisons, Co-op, Asda and Somerfield stores nationwide are involved.

New look for Taittinger

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:59:00 EDT

Champagne Taittinger is introducing new packaging for its six cuv�es to create a family look across all its wines and improve visibility in both the on- and off-trade environments.

Low alcohol wine forum

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:58:00 EDT

The WSTA is to host a low alcohol wine forum which will hear the latest market research from TFC Wines & Spirits and PLB, pointing to growing consumer demand for a wider range of lower alcohol wines.

A corker of a loyalty scheme

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:57:00 EDT

Spainish wine brand Berberana is launching its first consumer loyalty scheme � One Cork One Point

Casillero del Diablo in 50cl

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:56:00 EDT

Chilean wine producer Casillero del Diablo has introduced 50cl screwcap bottles to its portfolio

Strong performance from Chile

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:55:00 EDT

Whilst many wine producing countries are feeling anxious about their performance in the competitive UK market, Chile is certainly not one of them, says Wines of Chile�s UK director Michael Cox

Moroccan wine comes to UK supermarket

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:54:00 EDT

The Moroccan wine Domaine de Mayole Cabernet Sauvignon Syrah 2007 is set to be featured in UK high-end grocer Waitrose�s �World of Wine� promotion

Tavernello is launched in UKItalian cooperative Caviro has introduced its top-selling wine brand Tavernello onto the UK market in Tetra Pak cartons. in Tetra Pak

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:47:00 EDT

Italian cooperative Caviro has introduced its top-selling wine brand Tavernello onto the UK market in Tetra Pak cartons.

Waitrose list Rimon pomegranate wine

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:43:00 EDT

Ken Mackay MW, wine buyer at UK up-market grocery chainstore Waitrose, is the youngest master of wine in the world and the first to open his mind to pomegranate wine.

Wine Australia's strategy questioned

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 06:38:00 EDT

Australian Vintage is considering withdrawing their financial support for the generic Wine Australia campaign due to the continued focus on regionality rather than style. Paul Schaafsma, Australian Vintage general manager UK and Europe explains. . .

Arrogant Frog Tutti Frutti bursts into the UK

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:41:00 EDT

Jean-Claude Mas, winemaker at Les Domaines Paul Mas, has extended his portfolio of wines under the Arrogant Frog label with the launch of two new wines.

Organic wines in eco-pouches

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:40:00 EDT

A range of organic wines called Bivouac have been launched in a new eco-friendly pouch.

Low cost natural cork developed for mass market

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:39:00 EDT

A new competitively priced natural cork wine stopper has been launched by Corticeira Amorim, the world�s largest producer of cork closures, targeted at the high-volume sectors of the wine industry.

Shack up with Cloudy Bay this summer

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:41:00 EDT

This summer will see the launch of the first Cloudy Bay Shack, a pop-up seafood airstream trailer that will travel from Cornwall to London, offering customers the opportunity to enjoy a promotional glass of Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc matched to a selection of seafood.

Stowells launches summer on-trade initiative

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:24:00 EDT

Constellation Europe�s flagship on-trade brand, Stowells, is launching an initiative intended to boost confidence and selling techniques in the on-trade wine category.

Argentinean ros� to boost sales in the UK

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:23:00 EDT

Bodega Septima, Grupo Codorn�u�s Argentinean winery in Agrelo, Mendoza, is launching a ros� specifically for the UK market.

McGuigan Bin Series launched

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:22:00 EDT

Australian producer Neil McGuigan has introduced a Bin Series positioned at a �9.99 RRP in the UK. The portfolio includes a 2007 Chardonnay sourced from selected premium vineyard sites in New South Wales, a 2008 Merlot blended from a number of regions throughout South Australia, and two blends � Chardonnay Viognier and Shiraz Viognier � both of which are due to launch in Tesco UK stores mid-August.

Rioja has highest resveratrol content

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:21:00 EDT

With the completion of an �800.000 research and development project, Wines developed by nine wineries from La Rioja (Bodegas Bilba�nas, Bodegas Dinast�a Vivanco, Bodegas Vi�a Hermosa, Bodegas Juan Alcorta, Marqu�s de Murrieta, Bodegas Onta��n, Bodegas Patrocinio, Regal�a de Ollauri and Bodegas Riojanas) working with Avanzare and Dolmar, have achieved a milestone in global viticulture and oenology in producing the highest-ever levels of resveratrol produced naturally in a wine.

Consumer reactions to wine in cans

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 07:49:00 EDT

Watch what women between the ages of 18 and 34 are saying about drinking wine from a can

The Drinks Report | Jack Rabbit is hopping along with new varieta

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 07:48:00 EDT

Constellation Europe is introducing a new Chilean Sauvignon Blanc varietal to its on-trade brand Jack Rabbit, which has seen strong sales since its launch four years ago.

The Drinks Report | Survey points to changing wine tastes

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 07:47:00 EDT

The latest survey of the UK's regular wine drinkers shows they are drinking less red and proportionately more white and ros� wines.

The Drinks Report | Evolution or revolution? Time to question the closure rules?

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:53:00 EDT

Should the rules be broken? Or are they there for good reason? The �revolutionary� new Champagne closure, the Maestro from Alcan Packaging Capsules is at the heart of some heated debate

The Drinks Report | Introducing Virginia wines to the UK market

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 04:26:00 EDT

Chris Parker, CEO, New Horizon Wines, comments on bringing Virginian wines to the UK market and his concerns about the rush to drive prices down

The Drinks Report | Peter Douglas winemaker joins Stone Coast

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EDT

Stone Coast Wines, producer of premium wines from Wrattonbully in the Limestone Coast area of South Australia, has promoted Peter Douglas to chief winemaker.

The Drinks Report | Bordeaux bonded warehousing

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 05:37:00 EDT

The launch in Bordeaux of a new system for the storage of fine wines comes in response to demands from Asian-based traders as well as French export companies

The Drinks Report | New countries make news at Vinexpo

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 05:36:00 EDT

Among the major European exhibitors from France, Italy, Spain and wine producers and marketers from leading countries such as Chile, Argentina and the US, there were newcomers to Vinexpo this year from Brazil, Poland, Egypt, Belorussia, Sweden and Madagascar

The Drinks Report | DNA markers to foil counterfeiters

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 05:19:00 EDT

To guarantee the authenticity of premium wines and protect brand integrity, DNA-marked wine labels are being trialled by a New York state vineyard

The Drinks Report | Wine scores: a double-edged sword?

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 05:17:00 EDT

Despite the stories we all hear from retail shops, very few consumers actually walk into a store and say they only want to buy 95 point wines. Most consumers just want a nice bottle of wine at a nice price...and it would be even better if they could tell a little story about the wines as well. So why do these scores seem to carry such weight in the American marketplace?

The Drinks Report | Paul Sapin puts new wine range in long-life PET

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 06:06:00 EDT

La Perle, a range of three French wines by Paul Sapin, will make its first appearance at major UK events this summer in long-life, multi-layer (MLP) PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles. MLP PET barrier properties and technical information

The Drinks Report | US PET debut

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:46:00 EDT

J Garcia-Carrion (JGC), producer of Cristalino Cava, has introduced its Don Simon Class to the US market packaged in light-weight recyclable premium non-glass PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles with screw caps.

The Drinks Report | Lanson UK announces three market initiatives

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 04:45:00 EDT

Champagne Lanson has added a zero dosage Champagne to the newly re-packaged Besserat de Bellefon portfolio, taken on the UK distribution of Champagne Tsarine in its distinctive spirally-ridged bottle and announced its continued partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association

The Drinks Report | Sud de France Maison creates strong UK business links in first year

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:35:00 EDT

Managers at la Maison du Languedoc-Roussillon in London�s Cavendish Square are pleased that in its first year the mission has developed sound working relationships with many high-end retailers

The Drinks Report | Champagne Lanson in three UK market initiatives

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:32:00 EDT

The Drinks Report | Southern Rh�ne start-up secures multiple medals

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:22:00 EDT

Ch�ne Bleu�s first commercially available vintage wines launched last month have won no fewer than three IWC medals: a Gold and two Silvers.

The Drinks Report | Gallo turns over a new leaf

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 07:19:00 EDT

Californian brand Turning Leaf, previously under the Gallo Family Vineyards umbrella, has been re-launched as a stand-alone brand with revised packaging and improved wine quality.

The Drinks Report | NY mapping system to source potential vine growing sites

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:27:00 EDT

A technologically sophisticated, space-based, colour-coded mapping of New York State is now available on line to help winegrowers determine suitable areas with regard to terroir and climate for planting vines.

The Drinks Report | Fair Wind Wine sails to UK and Ireland

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:25:00 EDT

An attempt to green the wine supply chain by shipping wine using traditional sailing ships is establishing a presence in the UK next month.

The Drinks Report | Blossom Hill serves up a ros� summer

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:24:00 EDT

Leading UK Diageo-owned wine brand Blossom Hill has confirmed a third year of sponsorship as the official wine of the 2009 Wimbledon Championships. The campaign will comprise a �750,000 marketing initiative to support listings across the on- and off-trade sectors with tailored activities for specific channels to drive growth of its ros� varietals throughout the summer months.

The Drinks Report | Almost US$2m made available for wine research

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:44:00 EDT

Three major US vinicultural research funding organisations have joined to contribute almost US$2 million for viticulture and oenology research projects in 2009. Over US$1m was granted by the American Vineyard Foundation, based in Napa, with the balance of US$900,000 coming from the Viticulture Consortium West and the California Competitive Grant Program for Research in Viticulture and Enology.

The Drinks Report Wines | Planet Wine opens in former Miami bus station

Tue, 26 May 2009 14:39:00 EDT

An historic former bus station in Miami is being convereted into a winery. Planet Wine is the latest in a number of urban wineries that are springing up in key US cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York.

The Drinks Report Wines | Leading Spanish wine�s US PET debut

Tue, 26 May 2009 07:29:00 EDT

Wines | Chilean wines for 'Newbies'

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:04:00 EDT

Having succeeded with its Echo Falls Californian wine range, Constellation Europe is now targeting the mainstream Chilean category with the launch of two Chilean varietals, Echo Falls Sauvignon Blanc and Echo Falls Shiraz aimed at Newbies

Wines | Drink pink in a good cause

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:05:00 EDT

The St. Julian Winery in Michigan has launched Simply Pink Wine to raise awareness and funds for the US National Breast Cancer Foundation. The winery will produce 1,200 cases and will make a donation from every bottle sold. Simply Pink is a semi-dry blush wine from a blend of Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wines | Wine and health project underway in Spain

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:05:00 EDT

Nine wineries from La Rioja have been participating in a project with the aim of increasing the benefit of wine on health.

Wines | Berberana given brand identity

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:06:00 EDT

The UK�s second largest Spanish wine brand, Berberana, owned by United Wineries, has been redesigned by Wren & Rowe to create a stronger, clearer message to the consumer in terms of brand heritage and quality.

Wines | Shipment software helps green charity

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:06:00 EDT

eWinery Solutions has launched a donation software for wineries that allows consumers to add a few dollars to their purchases to help a specific charitable cause supported by the winery. The release of the donation software tool is timed to coincide with the launch of the Clif Family Winery website that features a "Green My Shipment" option in the shopping cart. By voluntarily adding only US$0.25 per bottle to their order, they can help to offset the CO2 emissions generated by the packaging and shipment of their wine.

The Drinks Report Wines | Fine wine cellar marketplace rolled out

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:07:00 EDT

Vinfolio, a fine wine and collector services company and CellarTracker, the largest wine cellar inventory management tool, announced plans to integrate CellarTracker with Vinfolio's recently announced Vinfolio Marketplace, a fine wine online marketplace for buying and selling the aggregated contents of privately owned cellars.

The Drinks Report Wines | Supermarket plants own English vineyard

Sun, 24 May 2009 05:07:00 EDT

Waitrose has become the first retailer to plant its own vineyard with a special ceremony to celebrate English Wine Week at its Leckford Farm Estate in Hampshire.

The Drinks Report Wines | OTR

Tue, 19 May 2009 13:00:00 EDT

Oxygen management during bottling and closure selection is critical to wine quality Initial results of a German study from the Geisenheim Research Center clearly demonstrate that oxygen control during bottling has a significant effect on wine development. Researchers found that if bottling processes weren�t managed appropriately, it caused irrevocable damage to the wine and its post-bottling development Consistent with recent findings from a French study that revealed that oxygen transfer rates (OTRs) through a wine bottle�s closure can be a primary influence of wine development over time, this study shows that the combination of controlled bottling and a closure with the appropriate OTR enables winemakers to effectively manage the wine aging process and minimize the occurrence of fault and inconsistency.

The Drinks Report Wines | Echo Falls Chilean launch

Tue, 19 May 2009 13:49:00 EDT

Two Chilean varietals launched by Echo Falls Having succeeded with its Echo Falls Californian wine range, Constellation Europe is now targeting the mainstream Chilean category with the launch of two Chilean varietals, Echo Falls Sauvignon Blanc and Echo Falls Shiraz At just five years old, Echo Falls is a top 20 UK wine brand showing an impressive 23% value growth* year-on-year, making Echo Falls the second best performing brand across the Constellation portfolio. Following the well-received launch of Echo Falls Spritz last year, this latest brand extension looks set to continue the upward trend.

The Drinks Report Wines | Burgundy embraces biodiversity

Tue, 19 May 2009 13:48:00 EDT

Old world wines embrace new farming ideals For the first time an �old world� wine region has launched a plan to embrace the new farming techniques collectively known as �biodiversity� Announced today (May19) The French Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB) and the technical wine-growing association of Burgundy (ATVB) has joined forces to bring together around 50 Burgundy wine estates to embrace biodiversity on a large scale for the first time. Faced with an uncertain future, threatened with climate change and environmental turmoil, the coming together of these partners is essential to maintain the viability of Burgundy�s unique terroir for future generations. What is Biodiversity?

Wines | Closures: cork and the environment

Mon, 18 May 2009 15:06:00 EDT

In a recent independent report on closure materials, natural cork was shown to produce the best environmentally-sound results in a staggering six out of seven assessments Taking greenhouse gases alone, natural cork displayed a massive twenty-four fold advantage over aluminium, and a nine-fold one over plastic. These were the conclusions of the first-ever comparative analysis of the life cycle of all three closure materials, conducted and verified by international auditing firm PriceWaterhouseCoopers. The report � commissioned by cork market leader Amorim � was reviewed by a peer panel of experts and conducted according to strict ISO methodology.

The Drinks Report | Wines | LEAF

Mon, 04 May 2009 05:02:00 EDT

The LEAF Marque can now be found on Bordeaux wines Bordeaux n�gociant Yvon Mau has introduced the first LEAF Marque wines into the UK. Felicity Murray reports In the UK, the LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) Marque is an identity given to farmed produce to reassure consumers that the food and drink they are buying has been produced in an environmentally and socially responsible way.

The Drinks Report | Wines | Hardys new look

Mon, 04 May 2009 05:01:00 EDT

New global packaging for Hardys Constellation Europe has new-look packaging for its flagship wine brand Hardys. The redesign will run across the entire Hardys sub-brand portfolio, and will be rolling out through all channels in all markets over the course of the summer, starting this month (May).

The Drinks Report | Wines | Rioja

Mon, 04 May 2009 05:05:00 EDT

Wine and health project underway in Spain

Nine wineries from La Rioja have been participating in a project with the aim of increasing the beneficial effects of wine on health.

The effects of anti-oxidants, protection against some cancers and lower cholesterol and improved of blood sugar levels are just some of the health benefits recognised as the result of drinking in moderation wines developed for this project. The full results of the study will be available later this year.