the drinks report..ideas, news and views from the world of wines and spirits, with a special focus on packaging design and technology




WSET initiates wine' campaign

National Wine Month is an initiative to recruit trade support and drive consumer communications under the creative platform ‘Make Time for Wine’.
It is being co-ordinated by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, which has made a significant financial contribution to kick-start the project.

• Read the report



Sparkling wines benchmarked

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.
• Read the report




Shipwrecked champagnes identified

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, which feature a comet. Experts are amazed at how well preserved the champagne is — that it tastes superb and has retained some of its fizz after some 200 years.
• Read the report




Winning labels

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.  The labels, designed by Chris Thornton from Hook Design, were recognised as having the highest quality of design, best use of colour and most unique approach to wine labelling. The labels have helped the brand stand out in international markets, say distributors, and helped it see a 107% increase in offshore sales over the past two years.




Japanese Koshu wines in UK

Novum Wines has become the first commercial importer of Japanese wines in the UK having taken deliveryof two Koshu wines from exporter Chuo Budoshu
• Read the report


Noval Black in the box

Noval Black, the new style of port from Quinta do Noval created to attract younger people  into the port category, is packaged in a minimalist black and silver bottle, which now comes in a tall elegant ebony gift box to match - just the thing to catch the eye of those with more contemporary tastes this Christmas.
RRP £14.99. UK agent Gonzalez Byass.




Jilly Goolden says to ‘put a cork in it’!

Well known wine critic, Jilly Goolden unveiled the world’s largest natural cork sculpture at Speaker’s Corner in London’s Hyde Park on September 2, to tell the story of cork from bark to bottle.
• Read the report


Redesigned with braille and QR coding

Portuguese wine company Falua Sociedade de Vinhos has unveiled new packaging for Tagus Creek. The redesigned labels now include braille, plus QR
coding technology to enable consumers with the latest mobile phones to access instant information about the wines.
• Read the report 


Turning Leaf links with fashion design

California wine brand Turning Leaf has entered into a strategic partnership with fashion house Basso & Brooke for Spring/Summer 2010.
Last year Gallo re-positioned Turning Leaf as a stand-alone premium brand with improved packaging (read the report).  This year Turning Leaf will kick off a series of collaborations partnering with some of the world’s most exciting design talent as part of its “discover the taste of colour” marketing campaign.
• Read the report


LIWF review

The Drinks Report highlights some of the wine packaging initiatives presented at the London International Wine Fair.
• Read the report





Sparkling rosé from Sir Cliff

Chalié Richards will be releasing in May a limited volume of Vida Nova Espumante Rosé – the first sparkling wine from Cliff Richard’s Adega do Cantor winery in the Algarve, Portugal.
The Espumante, which has been released to celebrate Cliff’s 70th birthday later this year, is a sparkling rosé made using method traditional. The wine is part of the Vida Nova range and is made from 100 per cent Syrah grapes picked in 2008.


The Champagne harvest

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.
• Read the report


Perfectly dressed wines

The Fedrigoni Grou
p, one of Europe’s top five speciality paper manufacturers, will be exhibiting new products to enhance wines at Vinitaly (April 8-12). The group offers a one-stop-shop for all the paper needs of the wine industry. Between all the companies within the group - Fedrigoni Cartiere, Arconvert and Manter – it claims it can cater for "every conceivable requirement" from glue-and-water labels to self-adhesives and from high-profile packaging to co-ordinated communications.
Vinitaly, Centroservizi Arena, Booth 25.


Jacob’s Creek unveils its Taste campaign

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.
The campaign will include an online navigational taste tool, on-pack activity and a consumer promotion - all designed to challenge consumer perceptions of ‘taste’.
• Read the report


Bernard Magrez buys Douro vineyard

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. This Portugese vineyard becomes one of nine vineyards owned by Magrez across the globe. After what he describes as an exceptional harvest in 2009, Magrez is launching a first cuvée called “Esperança’’. Just 6,000 to 8,000 bottles of the vintage will be available.

Oz and Cliff tasting event

Oz Clarke, the UK’s best known wine expert, teams up with Sir Cliff Richard to lead the country’s biggest online wine tasting from Lords Cricket ground
The Big Tasting event at 7.00pm on April 12 will be co-hosted with Waitrose and will be streamed live to both Waitrose Canary Wharf and John Lewis Oxford Street stores and online at thebigtasting.com and twitter.com/VPWine.
• Read the report


Cava continues to grow in UK

Imports of Cava to the UK remain buoyant, according to 2009 figures published last week by the Consejo Regolador de Cava. The UK is the largest export market for Cava with almost 33m 75cl bottles imported in 2009, up 8% on 2008.  Growth has increased greatly over the past decade with Cava consumption now double the figure it was in 2000.
Codorníu, the UK’s biggest selling Cava brand, reports volume growth of 15%.




Premium looks

Branding and design company Holmes & Marchant has created a new design for Spanish wine company Freixenet’s Brut Nature Vintage Reserva.
The cava is designed for more special occasions and sits in the Freixenet range between the classic Cordon Negro, in its famous black opaque bottle, and Elyssia, Freixenet’s newest super-premium cava.
• Read the report


Wines from Rioja sponsor the Club Elite

Club Elite is a VIP invitation-only area at the LIWF, reserved for the top international wine buyers and leading industry decision makers. Split across two dedicated rooms, Club Elite's members can use private meeting facilities, enjoy a complimentary lunch and refreshments or simply find a quiet room to catch up with work. Wines from Rioja will invite LIWF Club Elite members (1,500 worldwide) to enjoy a range of red, white and rosé wines from Spain’s most famous wine growing region.




Bordeaux umbrella wine range launch

Producta, Bordeaux’s largest wine producer and its UK agent, Thierry’s, launched a major new umbrella range, Baron de Bordeaux at the France Under One Roof tasting in London on Wednesday March 10 at Lord’s.
• Read the report


Support for Chile

Laithwaites Wine is donating 5% of sales on all Chilean wines during March to the Chilean Embassy earthquake appeal. The aim is to raise funds to help the
country rebuild its shattered infrastructure, as well as supporting long-standing
colleagues and friends in Chile’s wine industry.


Blossom Hill invests in Pinot Grigio

Blossom Hill has developed a new Californian Pinot Grigio to capitalise on the increasing consumer demand in the UK for this grape variety. The wine, which will complement Blossom Hill’s varietal portfolio, will have an RSP of £5.99 and is available for all sectors across the off and on-trade channels.
• Read the report



Wine label design trends
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.
• Read the report


The Bandit is released in UK

Constellation Europe is introducing a new range of wines into the UK from Australia's Houghton Winery, part of its Premium Estates portfolio.  Called “The Bandit” the range is named after the infamous Australian rogue Moondyne Joe. Each of the three labels tells the story of his last night of freedom and his eventual capture in the Houghton cellars.
• Read the report



Creative Block launched in UK

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.
• Read the report



Chilean wines outperform market in UK

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. Chile, for example, lived up to its reputation for outstanding value for money, thus maintaining its growth across all UK trade sectors for the seventh year running.
• Read the report



At the seventh Wines of Chile Awards
Viña San Pedro 1865 Single Vineyard Syrah Cachapoal 2007 was judged Best in Show. Pictured is Marco Puyo, chief winemaker in the winery's vineyards.
• View the full results




The root of noble wines unearthed

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.
• Read the report



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Wine | Archived News 2010
Cowhorn Winery launches The RINSE Project

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. Of the 300m cases of wine sold each year in the US, 70% of the bottles end up in landfill. The project enables the winery to cut its carbon footprint and per bottle cost.

New wine scheme for English and Welsh wines

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 later this year.

UK wine labelling will be modified to the new EU wine labelling regime, which introduces the terms ‘Protected Designation of Origin’ (PDO) and ‘Protected Geographical Indication’ (PGI), and will become operational for wines produced from this year’s harvest.
• Read the report

Champagnes get dressed to sparkle at Christmas
Moët & Chandon Champagne has a new chill box. The pristinely designed gold concave cooler is sold with a bottle of Moet Brut Imperial at an RRP from £28.99.

Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte will be introducing at the TFWA travel retail exhibition in Cannes a new version of its cute-looking range of cozy cooler jackets for its Brut Rosé NV and its new Palmes d’Or new Vintage – Palmes d’Or Brut 1999 – will add style to any festive table.

Veuve Clicquot’s Yellow Label Champagne has been gift packed in a voyager-style shopping bag that embodies the style of the brand. The isotherm cooler bag made from strong yellow nylon with sturdy faux leather handles can be folded away and kept for re-use. RRP from£33.50.


Nyetimber produces first rosé

Nyetimber, the Sussex-based English vineyard, is pre-releasing its first Rosé as a limited edition of 1,500 bottles, each individually numbered by hand on a one-off label created especially for the soft launch. The wine will be initially available exclusively in Harvey Nichols department stores and Harvey Nichols on-line at a RRP of £45 until sold out. It will also be stocked in selected restaurants & bars.

The full release of the Nyetimber 2007 Rosé will follow next spring with a wider distribution, joining the existing portfolio of Classic Cuvée and Blanc de Blancs vintage wines.  At that stage it will feature a new permanent label, which will form part of a new identity currently being developed for the brand and all its wines.

Chile's Pinot Noir characteristics analysed

The fifth annual Pinot Noir evening organized by the Casablanca Valley Association was held in Santiago last month (September).
The tasting of Pinot Noir, a variety that has found its ideal conditions in Casablanca where 710 hectares - half of Chile’s total plantations are concentrated, was accompanied by an analysis from the Catholic University’s Aroma Center.
The analysis identified the characteristics of the variety specific to Casablanca, such as aromas of strawberries, prune, and oak, and compared it to Pinots from Leyda, which are sweeter, and from Bío Bío, which are more floral. The study allows other comparative advantages in positioning Pinot Noir from Casablanca in the different markets as it shows their affinity with consumer preferences.
The Casablanca Vitivinicultural Association also chose this event as the moment to introduce its new corporate image, which includes the silhouette of the Andes Mountains, the Coastal Mountains, and the Central Valley along with the slogan ‘Premium Cool Valley’ as a reflection of the region’s characteristic climate and its influence on the high quality and broad range of varieties produced here.


New varietal from Redwood Creek

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

Aimed at the impulse and multiple grocer sectors, the new varietal is made using fruit from the Lodi, Delta and San Joaquin Valley regions. It has a smooth, medium-bodied finish with notes of cherries and raspberry and a hint of spice giving it texture, fullness and length.

The brand was launched into the UK market in 2009 and specifically targets the male wine drinker. By promoting a more adventurous lifestyle, Redwood Creek aims to reach this affluent audience, which is often overlooked by mainstream brands.

The brand is also continuing its partnership with the UK's Woodland Trust by donating 25p from every promotional bottle sold to the conservation charity.


New varietal now in Sainsbury's and Asda. RRP £7.49

New white in Yali’s National Reserve range

Chilean producer Viña 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.

“Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are well established Chilean varietals but the country has much more to offer and we are diversifying our white wine offering to reflect this,” says sales director Américo Hernández.  “We are producing excellent wines with concentrated fruit flavours and vibrant mineral notes from this grape.”

In just 12 years, Viña Ventisquero has cultivated prime vineyard sites throughout Chile’s most recognised grape growing regions: the coastal Maipo, Leyda, Rapel, Casablanca and Apalta Valleys, together with Peralillo and coastal Lolol in Colchagua.
Alain Grignon launches Les Crouzes Rosé

Languedoc-based LGI-Alain Grignon Wines has released a rosé 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.

 Grapes for Les Crouzes Vielles Vignes Cinsault Rosé 2009 are sourced from vineyards on the chalk and clay soils between Béziers and Carcassonne.  ‘Les Crouzes’ is the local term for the little caves and creeks dotted throughout the area.

 “Cinsault, like Carignan, is seen as an old and ‘traditional’ varietal in the Languedoc, and tends only to be used in blends these days,” comments UK Manager Peter Crameri.  “We have long-standing relationships with growers producing stunning examples of both grapes and Les Crouzes was created to showcase them as stand-alone, single varietal wines.”

Cienna Rosso sparkling wine launched by Brown Brothers

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

Cienna is a grape variety bred by the CSIRO Plant Industry by crossing Sumoll, a grape variety from Spain, with Cabernet Sauvignon. This unique variety thrives in the warm, dry conditions in Australia and combines the best attributes of both parent varieties which helps produce its vibrant, magenta red colour. On the nose, the Cienna Rosso emanates fresh raspberries and strawberries, along with a distinct leafy note which hints at the Cabernet parentage. It has a creamy palate with plenty of natural acidity and juicy flavours.

Cienna Rosso is available from September in Australia and Makro stores thoughout the UK (£8.99).
April 2011 STORY UPDATE: Now available in Waitrose stores nationwide, Cienna Rosso is priced at £9.99, although customers can enjoy a 25% discount from June 22nd to July 19th (£7.49).
• Read the report


Little Harry wins big

Larry Cherubino Wines, a tiny producer in Western Australia imported into the UK by Novum Wines (part of Hallgarten Druitt), has been awarded one of Australian winemaking’s greatest accolades. The winery has been named as James Halliday’s Winery of the Year in the just released 2011 Australian Wine Companion.
• Read the report


Diablo sponsors wine trade tennis tournament

Casillero del Diablo, Chile’s leading wine producer, has teamed up with Buddies of The Benevolent to host the wine trade’s first tennis challenge to be held at The Harbour Club in Chelsea, London on October 27 in aid of the charity. For details and to register, contact Eleanor Perry at The Benevolet.


Celebrity wine-lovers set to out-smart each other in aid of global poverty

Lincoln's Inn, London will play host to an exclusive evening of wonderful wine, fabulous food and top-class celebrity entertainment on Thursday 18 November, in support of international development charity, ActionAid.
• Read the report and find out how to get involved


Nine New Masters of Wine Announced

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.
• Read the report


Consorzio Tuscania joins O2inWines

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.

• Read the report


English sparkling wines judged as the best in the world

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

The winning wine, Camel Valey 2008 Pinot Noir Rosé Brut (£24.95), reached the final trophy tasting by winning a Gold medal in this year’s IWC. It then had to face a further tasting by an elite panel of judges, and overcame competition from Gold medal winners from the same category and from different countries, such as 1999 Charles Heidsieck Rosé Champagne (listed at £45.99), to scoop the crown.

The same wine was also awarded the England Trophy for Camel Valley, who win this for the second successive year.

Winemaker Sam Lindo: "Winning the England Trophy for a second successive year was almost too much to hope for but I never in my wildest dreams expected to win the International Trophy too!’

Meanwhile, at another wine challenge, the Decanter World Wine Awards, another English wine – Ridgeview’s Grosvenor Blanc de Blancs 2006 – has triumphed over prestigious Champagnes to win the trophy for the best sparkling wine in the world.


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

Imagine an investment that has increased in value by 1+% monthly since the mid-1950s and on which tax free returns might be enjoyed with careful planning. Imagine also that there may be inheritance tax benefits and, if the investment proves financially disappointing, it can always be consumed with pleasure and a capital loss possibly claimed! All of these promotional points appear on the websites of wine brokers – but how far can the promises be sustained and what problems may arise in practice?

• Read the report by Richard Holme and Ola Majcherczyk from accountancy firm Creaseys


Ridgeview wins packaging award

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.

• Read the report

Piat d’Or launches Sauvignon Blanc

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). The French wine brand hopes the new varietal will help recruit new consumers from it’s target demographic of 40 to 50 year old females.

The Vins de France range also comprises Chardonnay, Grenache Rosé and Merlot, all of which are sealed under screwcap and have a RRP of £4.99. They are available to both on- and off-trade sectors.

The development of the Sauvignon Blanc is the second phase of the brand’s major re-launch, which was implemented last year to celebrate 30 years of the “original wine brand”. 

New packaging was designed to heighten on-shelf presence and give a clearer branding on the bottle. This has already contributed to uplift in sales of 9%.


Rosé sales continue to grow

Rosé wines continue to grow in popularity with figures for Britain's bars, clubs and restaurants showing  rosé wine sales have risen by over 20% in value in the last year.
• Read the report



These could be confirmed as the oldest drinkable Champagnes in the world. Until now, two remaining bottles of Perrier-Jouet 1825 vintage were believed the oldest.

Possibly the world's oldest Champagne found

According to a BBC news report, divers have found 30 bottles of champagne thought to pre-date the French Revolution on the Baltic seabed. When they opened one, they found the wine - believed to have been made by Clicquot (now Veuve Clicquot) between 1782 and 1788 - was still in good condition.
The bottle - whose shape indicates it was produced in the 18th Century - has now been sent to for analysis.
• Read the report


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

The Languedoc-Roussillon is an exciting wine making region unlike any other in the Old World and one which is rapidly becoming known as the French “Wild West”. Here creative winemakers have the liberty to change the rules and use the region's diversity of terroir to bring a new ideas to market.

Felicity Murray reports on some of the innovative products and packaging formats emerging from this dynamic region.


• Read the report

Imaginative labelling is abundant in this creative region

Montana is renamed Brancott Estate

In recognition of Montana’s heritage, the brand is “going back to its roots” to become known as Brancott Estate globally from October to coincide with the 2010 vintage rollover.

This move will be supported by a major global sponsorship of the Rugby World Cup 2011, new TV and digital advertising, in-store activity and consumer promotions.


• Read the report

New sparkling, new look

UK winery Denbies has a new premium sparkling cuvée, 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 cuvée, perfect for laying down.

“This wine fits very well into our existing sparkling wine range, a fine partner to the gold award winning Greenfields Cuvée 2003”,  says Christopher White, Denbies general manager, ’this is the first time we have produced a 100% Pinot blanc de noir and 2006 was an exceptional year.”

The launch of the Cubitt Reserve coincides with the release of Denbies new range of sparkling wines which have been rebranded.  The range of four wines includes Greenfields ‘06, Whitedowns ‘06 and Sparkling Rosé ‘07.  The new branding by Creative Practice in New Zealand, has a clean, contemporary edge and is based around the Denbies crest.

Kingsland boxes NZ Sauvignon Blanc

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).

Mark Elener, sales and commercial manager,believes the UK consumer is becoming more open to alternative wine packaging. He says: “Consumers need to see more choice and improved quality of bag-in-box products on the shelf.  Runestone 1.5ltr Sauvignon Blanc delivers a recognisable, quality wine from New Zealand at a competitive price.

The cube format BiB an eye-catching design and easy to carry and store.

New analyzer for measuring oxygen exposure

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

Australian Semillon Blanc is the new New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

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

Now that Constellation Brands and Australian Vintage have agreed to not agree on a merger it’s time to “stop sitting on our hands, get off our butts and make some decisions” according to the former production manager now acting CEO for Australian Vintage, Neil McGuigan.

“We have evolved our big jammy wines into something more elegant so that we’re giving the consumer a wine with all the character they expect from the variety but much more refreshing and at a lower alcohol level. But," he says, "Australia needs to be much more innovative in its wine styles if it is to find a “fight-back” in white wine to compete with the popularity of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc wines in the UK.

• Read the report


The ultimate lightweight single serve

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

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.


• Read the report

M&S commits to PET

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

• Read the report


Wine in PET found to deteriorate after six months

Wine packaged in single and multi-layer PET bottles and BiB starts to oxidise within six months according to a new study by the Institute of Vine and Wine Sciences (ISVV) in Bordeaux. The one-year storage tests on red and white Bordeaux wines in non-glass formats found that the flavour and chemical composition of white wine changed within six months, however red wine was more stable.
The levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide were tested at regular intervals, as well as the taste and colour intensity of the wines. The ISVV plans to continue testing into a second year.
ISVV lecturer Rémy Ghidossi said, "A lot of contradictory information has been circulating in recent months regarding different packaging solutions suitable for wines.
"It is now necessary to establish the truth, based on scientific information and quantitative data, to determine the legitimacy of each package, as its main function is to preserve the flavour and characteristics of its content."
The study was sponsored by the glass industry.

Organic wine producer favours Tetra Pak's eco-credentials

California Natural Products, a manufacturer and custom packer for some of California’s leading wine producers, has introduced a Chardonnay in Tetra Pak cartons. The wine is produced from organically-grown grapes from Mendocino and is the second offering from the company’s own wine brand, CalNaturale, which launched in late summer 2009 with an award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon varietal.

Heather Pyle, winemaker for CalNaturale says:
“Our CalNautrale wines are the first and only California wines made from certified organically-grown grapes to be available in Tetra Pak packaging, which is a huge accomplishment in this industry. We are proud to be a pioneer and to also break the taste barrier associated with other organic and boxed wines.”

Both CalNaturale Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines are available 500ml and 1 litre cartons, at US$6.99 and US$12.99.

Corpora launch new brands into US premium market

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.

A joint venture was signed at the end of 2009 to launch a brand from each of the two emerging high quality wine regions in South America. The strategy marks the first Chilean wine brand released in the US at a premium price point. Jorge Goles, CEO, VC Family Estates says: This launch is a very special moment for our company in Chile and Argentina, because through this we are able to show the American consumer that Bio Bio is a new Chile, and that Patagonia Argentina can offer high quality wines like the best ones from the old world.”

Tariquet launches Marselan Rosé

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

Domaine du Tariquet is the first producer in Gascony to introduce this little known and rarely grown grape variety. It was developed in 1961 from the union of Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache Noir, and Domaine du Tariquet orignally introduced it to the region in 1999 for experimental purposes. It is approved for use in the region following the 2009 harvest.

After a series of trials, controlled yields show great aromatic potential, good structure and a great complexity. Vinified as rosé, the Marselan offers notes of ripe red fruits associated with a lightly spicy character.



A limited production 12.5%abv rosé in a screw cap bottle for optimum freshness



Jean-Charles Boisset

Euphoria-inducing Pinot Noir

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".

The benefits of resveratrol, a phytoalexin naturally found in the skins of Pinot Noir grapes and particularly those grown in Burgundy, have long been known. "This new Bourgogne Pinot Noir captures all the essence of these magical ingredients in a mind-altering tipple," he says.
• Read the report


Quinta do Noval launches easy style port for the modern younger consumer

This month sees the UK launch of the latest – and most ground-breaking - port from Quinta do Noval, which Gonzalez Byass, Noval’s UK agent unveiled at the Big Fortified Tasting on April 19.

Already proving a hit in the US, Noval Black, with its contemporary presentation, is a new style of Port designed to explore different drinking occasions and encourage new and younger consumers  – while still delivering the Quinta do Noval character to those already loyal to the brand.

• Read the report

English wine enjoys on-going recognition

England’s leading producers and regional vineyards are attracting attention from major trade buyers as interest grows in the country’s award-winning still and sparkling wines. It is an industry that has seen sales growth despite the economic climate and is continuing to expand. 
• Read the report

First commercial English Sauvignon Blanc planting

Three hectares of Sauvignon Blanc have been planted by Denbies, England’s largest wine estate. Clone 108 on Gravesac rootstocks were chosen for early ripening and limestone tolerance. The Sauvignon Blanc planting is part of Denbies strategy to move to more premium dry white wine styles.
• Read the report


Growing demand for alcohol free wine

The latest figures from Infoscan have revealed significant growth in alcohol free and low alcohol wines, with Eisberg leading the category, according to a report by UK distributor Chalié Richards. Volume sales for the branded category as a whole over the last two years have increased by 17%, with sales of Eisberg showing an increase of 30%, which the Chalié Richards says was helped by a significant packaging revamp.

• Read the report


Cinzano redesigns its vermouth range

Cinzano, owned by Gruppo Campari and a market leader in the vermouth sector, has redesigned its range to "revitalise the brand image and create a more contemporary and approachable positioning".

the new Cinzano designs introduce simpler, yet sophisticated label graphics and a contemporary bottle shape focusing on rounded and curved lines.

The labels have been designed to be clean and fresh, while clearly communicating each of the three variants of Cinzano Bianco, Cinzano Extra Dry, and Cinzano Rosso.

The brand’s heritage is indicated though the 1757 reference and a subtle embossed watermark denotes the brand’s medals for excellence.

The new packaging will arrive in UK stores from mid April to June.

Quality benchmark for Romanian Wines

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. This initiative marks the start of the country’s Taste a New Romania campaign. The judges’ selection will be unveiled at the LIWF in London.
 
• Read the report

Snoqualmie gets ‘Naked’

Stratford’s Wine Agencies has launched Snoqualmie ‘Naked’ organic wines into the UK. Snoqualmie, based in Columbia Valley, was one of the first wineries in the state of Washington to make wine from certified organically grown grapes and now has more certified organic vineyards than any other producer in the state.

Snoqualmie ‘Naked’ consists of 2008 Riesling and Chardonnay and 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and will retail £10.99 - £11.99. The wines are approachable, food friendly and offer classic varietal flavour profiles, as well as being produced sustainably.


Bottle Green shows Italian style with two new wines

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

The focus will be on the new premium offering, Revero and the innovative low alcohol brand Vetro – believed to be the first wine-based product, (and possibly the first alcoholic drink) to openly communicate the Units of Alcohol content by integrating the message into the pack design.
Although wine quality is paramount, Revero also boasts unique, striking and perhaps somewhat eccentric packaging which is a quirky and fun interpretation of definitive Italy; designed to set the brand apart from others in the market. The range will launch with a Frascati Superiore, Soave Classico, Chianti Riserva, Valpolicella Ripasso and Lambrusco.

Wine community leaders to explore global connections in Bordeaux

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 Forging Links symposium, taking place June 24 to 27 at the Cité Mondiale du Vin, will explore the connections between all those involved in wine, from producer through to consumer, and how these can be developed to ensure a successful future for the art, science and business of wine.

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Viña Casa Silva gives a positive post earthquake harvest report

Just seven days after the big earthquake hit Chile, Viña 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.
• Read the report


Champagne loses out to sparkling

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. The report also finds almost a fifth of drinkers feel that own-label Champagne is as good as branded Champagne.

Champagne has declined in value sales by a massive 28% in the past two years of economic downturn (2007-2009) despite growing by 17% in the previous two years. Sparkling wine, however, has continued to see growth. In 2005-2007 value sales increased by an impressive 27%.
Champagne's value share of the overall market has fallen from 69% in 2007 to 55% in 2009, while sparkling wine has jumped from 31% to 45%.
In volume sales, Champagne was worth 38% of the total market in 2007 and is now worth 30% of the total market in 2009. Sparkling wine was worth 62% in 2007 and is now worth 70%.


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Dom Pérignon releases two vintage rosés

Champagne producer Dom Pérignon has launched a rosé vintage 2000, its first rosé this decade, together with the first mature vintage rosé Champagne in its Œnothèque Collection – Dom Pérignon Œnothèque Rosé 1990.

Vintages in the Dom Pérignon Œnothèque range first spend a minimum of seven years (for blanc) and 10 years (for rosé) in the cellar on the lees. When the wine reaches its first plenitude, it is disgorged and released. A limited number of bottles, however, are set aside to being a second period of aging in the cellar.
Now 20 years old and at the peak of its second plenitude, Œnothèque Rosé 1990 is available in limited quantities on allocation only to top UK restaurants and prestige retailers from April, priced from £520.

Dom Pérignon Rosé 2000 will be from April, priced from £280.


Great expectations and boundless opportunities

Chile is a wine-producing country with seemingly endless potential. New plantings in previously unexplored territories are bringing new styles to market. Following her recent visit, Felicity Murray reports on the progress in the northern valleys

• Read the report

Earthquake: The extent of the damage to Chile’s wine regions and winery infrastructure is remarkably limited, according to Vinos de Chile, despite reports of significant damage in the southern wine areas closest to the epicentre, notably Bío Bío, Cauquenes, and other parts of Maule, and Curicó.  Even wineries as far north as Colchagua have been affected, with structural damage, road collapses, and power and communication problems. To support the Wines of Chile Earthquake Appeal visit: www.levantandochile.org

• Read earthquake reports from the wineries and Vinos de Chile


English Wines in the highlight

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. The tasting, at the Chelsea Football club, will include new vintages and new wines plus the launch of English Wine Week – May 29 to June 6.

Joining the EWP, the commercial producers’ association, this year and new to the market is sparkling wine estate Gusbourne. Based just outside Appledore in Kent, 10km from the south coast, Gusbourne Estate comprises only the traditional varieties planted on 20 ha, spread across 3 distinct plots. Owned by Andrew Weeber, whose passion for wine extends all the way back to his South African roots, Gusbourne is run on a day-to-day basis by Plumpton-trained Jon Pollard.

Gusbourne’s first vintage releases, to be presented at the EWP event on 23rd April, will be from 2006, with a little over 5,000 bottles each of Brut (Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay) and Blanc (100% Chardonnay). Production has increased for subsequent vintages, and a groundbreaking new winery is planned for the near future.
Self-adhesive labels offer a broad canvas for designers in the wine industry

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

Today’s ‘new generation’ younger wine drinkers may be more open to creative and imaginative design, but they are equally discerning about the quality. Packaging communicates all there is to know about the product inside, so wineries need to consider their choice of bottle, label and closure with as much care and passion as they do the wine itself.

• Read the report


Co-op adds M Sparkling NV

Australian Vintage has launched a sparkling wine in association with UK multiple grocer, the Co-operative. Priced at £11.99 (on promotion at £5.99 until March 24), M Sparkling NV is sourced from vineyards in South Eastern Australia. The 12%abv wine is made predominantly from the Moscato grape with 25% Sauvignon Blanc and 25% Semillon. It is tank fermented like its Italian counterparts and bottled soon after the secondary fermentation is complete producing a fruity sparkling with a crisp finish.

Veuve Clicquot releases first vintages in Cave Privée range

Veuve Clicquot has unveiled a "new vintage champagne philosophy" with the re-release of a range of rare, mature vintage champagnes in its new Cave Privée Collection. The inaugural Cave Privée offering includes the 20 year old Brut Millesime 1990, the 1980 Vintage and three rare vintage rosés from 1989, 1978 and 1975. Veuve Clicquot says the concept allows connoisseurs to buy exceptional vintages, in different bottle formats, when they are ready to drink, safe in the knowledge they have been cellared in perfect conditions since their creation.

• Read the report


Waitrose takes award-winning Casillero del Diablo Malbec

Chilean wine producer Concha y Toro has released a Casillero del Diablo 2008 Malbec, 13.5% abv, which is now on sale in the UK at multiple-grocer Waitrose with an RRP of £7.49.

Comprised of 100% Malbec sourced from estate owned vineyards in the Rapel Valley, with 60% aged in new and used American oak for eight months. Chief winemaker Marcelo Papa commented: “Our Rapel Valley vineyard sites in Cachapoal and Colchagua have an ideal micro-climate for Malbec - low rainfall, warm dry summers, distinct diurnal climatic range and ideal soil structure. We are extremely pleased with the 2008 release – the wine received a Gold medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2009.”

Journey's End opens new winery and acquires neighbouring vineyards and equestrian centre

Journey’s End in Stellenbosch, South Africa, has just opened a 150-ton crush winery following its acquisition of a significant proportion of neighbouring Mount Rozier estate, including 12 ha of a prime, south-facing vineyard and a fully operational Equestrian centre. André Parker of neighbouring Highberry vineyards has acquired the remainder of the Mount Rozier estate.  

• Read the report


The Wine Gang select their top 30 sparkling wines

The 30th 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 under £30 and 70 (still) Regional Ambassadors, selected for their expression of variety and terroir.

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Research to find best Carmenère for Chilean wine

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

The Genoma Research Project will study 42 different phenotypes of Carmenère that have just been planted in a special experimental vineyard at Viña Casa Silva’s Los Lingues estate in the foothill of the Andes.  Experts from the University of Talca, the University Federico Santa Maria, the INIA and the Max Planck Institute of Germany are working under the direction of Mario Geisse, technical director and winemaker at Viña Casa Silva, to conduct the research.

• Read the report


New labelling for De Bortoli Deen Vat Series

Australian winery, De Bortoli, has new labels for its Deen Vat Series range, which will be on shelf from late February 2010. 
The new 'torn-look' front label has clearer, colour-coded varietal naming and features a larger and more modern image of family patriarche Deen De Bortoli.
A band has also been added underneath the main label to highlight the winery  name and this feature will be added to all branded wines under Estate level this year.


Montana gets packaging revamp

Montana is kick-starting its marketing activities for 2010 with the rollout of new packaging across its Classic and Reserve ranges.
The new label builds on existing brand recognition, the company says, that will drive stronger standout on-shelf. The packaging has been extensively tested with consumers in the UK, Australia and New Zealand and is expected to be on-shelf next month (February 2010).

Bottles upcycled

Cowhorn, a small Applegate Valley winery in Oregon, US, has just sent its first shipment of 1,000 used wine bottles to The Green Glass Company where they will be upcycled into heirloom goblets, pitchers, tumblers, vases, and votives.
• Read the report

The world's first 100% carbon neutral wine range

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. 
• Read the report


Thierry’s announces the winner of the WSET Scholarship Award and an addition to its portfolio

Thierry’s, the UK wine importer, and the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) has announced the winner of the Thierry Cabanne Scholarship Award 2010 at the WSET Awards and Graduation Ceremony which took place at the London Guildhall last night (Monday 18 January).
• Read the report

Thierry’s has also announced that it has added top Burgundy house, Antonin Rodet, to its French portfolio. Founded in 1875 by Antoine Rodet and based in Mercurey, in the Côte Chalonnaise area, Antonin Rodet exports over 50% of its production to over 50 countries worldwide. The producer owns Château de Mercey and Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Monopole Clos de Thorey and has exclusive distribution of Château de Rully, Côte de Beaune.


Lighter Australian wine launch from Constellation

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. Launching initially in the ontrade, Banrock Station Moscato 2009 and Banrock Station Pink Moscato 2009 are medium sweet, lower alcohol wines (at only 5.5% ABV) with a light spritz, to be enjoyed as a lighter, longer drink.


English sparkle in Italy

British vineyard Nyetimber ended 2009 on a high note as it enjoyed its best ever harvest and another major first prize on the international stage.
CEO Eric Heerema announced that Nyetimber’s Classic Cuvee 2003 has been crowned Champion of Worldwide Sparkling Wines in the second annual Bollicine Del Mondo competition in Italy.

• Read the report



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