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
International symposium on Grenache
The Grenache Symposium (June 5-6) will be presented by vineyards Chene Bleu and Domaine de Mourchon at La Verriere in Crestet, high in the mountains of the Rhône Valley, a region noted for its exceptional Grenache grapes.
• Read the report
LIWF preview
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 Group, 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
New varietals
Pernod Ricard's leading New Zealand wine brand Montana has launched two new varietals: a sparkling Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris.
Clink Wines and Kiwi-Oeno joint venture
Clink Wines has formed a global joint venture with award-winning winemaker, Matt Thomson, MD Kiwi-Oeno.
The Paddler will be the venture’s first launch, with a strategic focus on exclusive, popular varietals not readily available from New Zealand.
• Read the report
Blossom Hill’s winter rosé
One of the UK's top-seling wine brands, Blossom Hill, has launched a white Zinfandel limited edition Christmas label featuring a frosted branch design. The brand expects that the design, combined with short shelf presence will create significant consumer demand in the run up to Christmas and New Year celebrations. Available from Percy Fox & Co.
New look for 100th birthday
Grupo Codorníu wine brand Viña Pomal, from the Bodegas Bilbaínas 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 Viña Pomal Reserva.
• Read the report
Why launch a wine in a can?
Felicity Murray asks Caroline Ruijg of Vinovation International, pictured here with her business partner Christiaan Huisman, about the inspiration behind the Pelican brand and their belief in the potential for wine in cans
• Read the report
Pinot Noir winners in Hong Kong
Pinot Noir 2010 winery, Wooing Tree scooped the pool at the inaugural Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Competition in early November.
• Read the report
Check out the list of winners for 2010
Dressed for dinner
Champagne G.H. Mumm has an added value gift pack for dinner partygoers wanting to take their hosts an attractively packaged ready-chilled bottle. Exclusive to Waitrose in the UK during the festive season, the zipped jacket features the G.H. Mumm signature embossed in gold and a removable metal key ring featuring an enamelled logo and small metal eagle, taken from the Mumm family coat of arms. RRP £26.99.
Bubbles study in the air
Champagne Taittinger is taking MWs up in a hot air ballon on a bubble research mission. Why?
• Read the report
Fiery ad campaign
Chilean wine producer, Casillero del Diablo, is launching a high profile TV advertising campaign this winter to reach an audience of over 50 million viewers.
• Read the report
Champagne Lanson unveils Extra Age
Champagne house Lanson is to revive the tradition of Lanson Champagnes of the 19th and early 20th centuries with Champagne Lanson Extra Age, a blend of Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs selected from only Grands Crus and Premiers Crus vineyards and aged for a minimum of five years.
On show at TFWA World exhibition
Blue Village, G24
California organic pop
Korbel Champagne Cellars is introducing its first California Brut made entirely with organically grown grapes according to the traditional methode champenoise technique, to become the first major US producer to offer such a wine.
• Read the report
Bordeaux wines in tasting box
Five 50ml bottles of Bordeaux appellations - Saint-Emilion, Graves, Médoc, Bordeaux Blanc and Bordeaux Rouge are being presented by Francois de Fonbelle in Oenova, a new wine tasting box.
Rodolphe Grosset, Fonbelle’s Director, says, "Oenova is a unique experience for those who want to taste and to get to know traditional French wines."
On show at TFWA World exhibition
Blue Village, Stand H13
Pierre André Burgundy wine tastings
Pierre André is the historical brand of Corton André created by the founder in 1923 in Burgundy. Eighty-six years later, the brand has refocused on Burgundy, Chablis, Mâcon and Beaujolais with the aim of becoming a Burgundy specialist.
Tastings on the stand from 11:00 to 13:00 everyday.
On show at TFWA World exhibition
Red Village, K6
Terradria wine brand launch
Les Vins Georges Duboeuf has two new wines, one red and one white, both from the Pays d’Oc region and from local varietals. Terradria is presented in bottles decorated with the house logo. The
Red is in a Bordeaux bottle, the white in a Burgundy bottle.
The label design was entrusted to a young designer from the region, David
Giraudon, who created the first images for the collection with the 2007 vintage.
On show at TFWA World exhibition
Red Village, Stand J10
Wine launch in long life PET
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.
• Read the report
The Bordeaux harvest
Jean-Christophe Mau summarises the 2009 Bordeaux harvest at Chateau Brown and Chateau Preuillac.
• Read the report
Wine in can launch for Russian market
Marine Express, a wine distributor in Russia, has chosen 250ml slim cans for the launch of its Elsa wine-in-can brand.
Elsa, a semi-sweet Liebfrauenmilch produced in the Rheinhessen region by Burgherrn Weinhandels, was previously packaged in 750ml glass bottles.
• Read the report
Big brand Chilean wine for UK market
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. The range consists of three tiers of wines at different price points.
• Read the report
Micro-terroir differences explained
A three year research study undertaken by Colchagua terroir specialists Viña 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
• Read the report
Improved wine quality and new packaging
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.
• Read the report
Natural cork a winner in US
According to a recent survey in the US, a consumer preference for natural cork closures has contributed to the outstanding success of a New Zealand wine, a conclusion that has been underlined by two new studies.
• Read the report
UK launch in Tetra Pak
Italian cooperative Caviro has introduced its top-selling wine brand Tavernello onto the UK market in Tetra Pak cartons.
Due on shelf in Tesco from mid-August, the range features two classic Italian wine styles - Trebbiano Pinot Bianco and Sangiovese
• Read the report
Casillero del Diablo in 50cl
Chilean wine producer Casillero del Diablo has introduced 50cl screwcap bottles to its portfolio. Targeted at the multiple and convenience channels as well as the on-trade, the new format is now available in the UK with an RRP of £4.99, and includes the 2008 Sauvignon Blanc and 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon.
A corker of a loyalty scheme
Spainish wine brand Berberana is launching its first consumer loyalty scheme – One Cork One Point. Every bottle has a specially adapted foil containing a unique code that can be converted into points. Consumers could also find a cork that wins a luxury holiday in Spain.
Low alcohol wine forum
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.
• More information
New countries make the news
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.
• Read the report
Numbers down
Vinexpo 2009 attracted 46,621 trade visitors from 135 countries (66% from France) during the five-day exhibition in June. The number of visitors declined by 7.5% compared with 2007, which, in view of the present economic climate, was considered a positive outcome.
Bordeaux bonded warehousing
The launch in Bordeaux of a new system for the storage of fine wines comes in response to the demands of Asian-based traders as well as French export companies.
• Read the report
Consumer reactions to wine in cans
• Watch what women between the ages of 18 and 34 are saying about drinking wine from a can.
• Read more about the research
Provenance collaboration
eProvenance, a Franco-American company applying advanced technology to monitor the temperature of fine wines in the supply chain, has formed wine provenance collaboratives in Bordeaux; Napa and Sonoma; plus another soon to follow in Burgundy.
• Read the report
Chilean wines
for 'Newbies'
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.
• Read more
Artistic image for new rosé
Claessens|Cartils has created the brand presentation for AIX, a new rosé wine from Provence launched this month on the French and Dutch markets.
The brand name AIX comes from a Roman town founded in 123 BC. In the Middle Ages, this town fulfilled a political role as capital of the Provence. Nowadays, Aix-en-Provence is a fashionable, artistic city that is well-known among bon vivants.
US PET debut
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.
• Read the report
UK drinkers prefer wine
A survey published by WSTA and Wine Intelligence shows that wine is the preferred alcoholic drink in the UK with white wine emerging as the number one drink of choice.
•
Read more
Wine Women
Isabelle Legeron and Marie-Antoinette de Szczypiorski are winners of the Wine Women 2009 awards
•Read the report
Wine reports
Winemakers in France's Languedoc region, which has suffered a reputation of being the 'poor relation' to its Bordeaux and Cote du Rhone cousins, have called their latest product 'Vin de Merde'.
Watch the BBC video
How do you know your expensive vintage wine is really vintage until you pop the cork?
Watch the BBC video
French wine withers on the vine. BBC News reporter Paul Henley speaks to vineyard owners in Languedoc, France.
Watch the BBC video
Wines |
| 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 |
 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? |
 |
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”. |
 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
 |
 |
| 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 |
 |
| 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. |
|
|
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. |
 |
| 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. |
Growing demand for alcohol free wine |
| 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. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| 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. |
 |
 |
Bottle Green shows Italian style with two new wines |
 |
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. |
 |
Viña Casa Silva gives a positive post earthquake harvest 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%. • Read the report |
 |
 |
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. |
 |
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 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. |
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. |
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. |
 |
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. |
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 |
 |
 |
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). 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 |
 |
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. |
Thierry's expands NZ offer 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, in conjunction with CarbonZero rated Marlborough-based Wairau River Wines as well as another label, Mistletoe Bay, from the Marlborough region. • Read the report |
 |
 |
Two cuvées presented in PET glasses Grand Cru Classé Côtes de Provence Château 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. Both red and white wines of the Classique Chateau Roubine are currently available at the Sketch Pierre Gagnaire pop-up café at the Royal Academy of Arts, London, in ‘One Glass Wine’ containers. UK agent Eminent Wines is also looking to place them in other outlets serving, for example, high end lunch boxes, airport and train lounges etc. • Read the report |
Sauvignon Blanc – a first for Septima |
 |
| Olivier Dauga becomes first Bordeaux consultant to create a green winemaking charter 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. • Read the report WJ Deutsch announces joint venture with Corpora 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. • Read the report Full house expected at German fair 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. GWC offers further research grants for 2010 |
PET bottle push for organic wine A major push to bottle Sud de France organic wines in PET (polyethylene terephtalate) has been launched, thanks to strategic financing from the Languedoc-Roussillon regional government. |
 |
 |
Wine for 2 bottles encourage responsible drinking |
 The range includes glasses for Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Chardonnay, Champagne and an all-purpose red wine glass as well as a tumbler. US$239.99 to US$324.99 for a set of six. Available through Amazon.com or Wine.com. |
Breathable wine glasses launched German glass wear manufacturer Eisch Glaskultur has teamed up with Ronn Wiegand to launch the Ronn Wiegand Signature series of breathable wine glasses. |
TV ad campaign for Jacobs Creek |
 |
| Wines that don’t Costco the earth South African producer Stark-Condé has a new range of wines in the UK – Bellow’s Rock – exclusively, and rather unusually, through Costco UK. Consisting of three wines sold as a mixed red six-pack case for £23, this unusual route to market offers unrivalled value for the end consumer. • Read the report |
 |
Geothermic energy first for Rioja producer Bodegas Regalía de Ollauri has become the first winery in the world to exploit geothermic energy for production of its wine. Heat for the winemaking process is generated by sending water in a closed-circuit of 15cm diameter pipes to a depth of 100m underground where the temperature is a constant 14oC to 18oC all year round. |
 |
|---|
 |
Champagne from a shoe |
 |
New Zealand label changes ownership |
|---|
Life goes better with Bordeaux A new campaign aims to make Bordeaux wines “come alive” for American wine lovers. The “Life Goes Better with Bordeaux” campaign brings together easy to understand wine information with real time where-to-buy details, food pairing suggestions, helpful tips, events around the country, and live online chats with wine experts with the goal of putting Bordeaux wines in the glasses of consumers. Vinfolio expands as HK wine market hots up Vinfolio has expanded into the Asian market with the launch of its Hong Kong ecommerce website, www.vinfolio.hk. Since the elimination of duties on wine imports in February of last year, the fine wine market in Hong Kong has seen tremendous growth leading many to declare that Hong Kong soon will become the hub for wine trade in Asia. • Read the report |
|---|
New UK market strategy for Spier
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. The change in market strategy will see the brand withdrawn from the multiple grocer channel in early 2010, but still available in the specialist independent and the wholesale sectors. Spier sales director Eve Jell says: “Historically our UK focus has been on the off-trade. Our strategy moving forward is to concentrate on building the brand in the on-trade, driving value in the Spier brand and continuing to deliver quality South African wines to the UK market.” The on-trade portfolio will be composed of five tiers – the premium positioned Private Collection, the Creative Block range, the Vintage Selection and Signature labels and the easy drinking Colours range. |
 |
|---|
Peter Lehmann continues glass weight reduction Peter Lehmann Wines has recently taken steps to reduce the weight of glass on its proprietary bottle by nearly 15% and by working closely with key supplier O-I in Adelaide, is now able to embark on the next weight reduction for its Weighbridge and Wildcard ranges: less weight with no loss of strength, says the company. When the savings of Weighbridge, Wildcard, Clancy’s and Art Series ranges are all combined, the total glass requirement will be reduced by over 800 tonnes per annum, saving around 200 tonnes of transport related CO2 emissions in the company’s global distribution. All new Peter Lehmann Wines cartons are made from 95% recycled materials and all are completely recyclable. “We believe it is our responsibility to ensure available resources are used efficiently, the effects of the winery operations on the environment are minimised, and materials are recycled wherever possible,” says the company. |
FreshCase: a stylish take on the wine box |
 |
|
Jeanjean and Laroche merger set to create new market leader in quality wine market
The JeanJean and Laroche Groups signed an agreement on September 22 to implement their full merger in the coming months. |
Regional report: Rioja
The province of northern Spain which has given its name to one of the most emblematic wines of Spain is a surprisingly little visited region of Spain. The Drinks Report journalist James Graham visited Rioja to meet producers and ancillary wine industry professionals to look at the state of the market. |
 |
 |
Stratford’s offers UK market a "winter warmer" Stratford’s Wine Agencies has launched of Rosedale Barossa Valley Shiraz 2008 100% Shiraz aimed at the UK off and on-trade, RRP £6.99. |
Intriguing new gifting presentations |
 The new Maarten Baas designed metal coffret to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Dom Ruinart • Download brochure |
 Krug mirrored 'treaure box' presentation for the Grande Cuvée – on sale in Selfridges, London, for £140 |
Wines to meet demand for lower alcohol levels 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. The wines in the So’Light range have no residual sugar (less than 2 grams per litre) and thus are low in calories (60–63 calories per 120 ml glass) and reduced alcohol (9%, compared to an average 12–13% found in traditional wines), and thus offer a neat solution to the problem of reconciling health and pleasure. • Read the report |
 |
 |
Personalised labels offered by Irish online wine merchant 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. |
WineOnline.ie is aiming the service, due to be active in time for the key Christmas peak, at both the private and corporate customer, says Gerry Fitzsimons, WineOnline.ie’s sales director. Fitzsimmons says: “The wedding, Christmas and gift markets are clearly well suited for this type of simple personalisation. Corporate entities can also elect to have us create a bespoke label using a company logo or artwork which is ideal for sales conferences, promotions or simple single gift presentations such as retirements and achievements.” The Dublin-based website has licensed a number of professional images across a wide range of themes and hopes to have the project live within a month, says Fitzsimmons. |
Label colour and shape preferences researched All DOC Prosecco labels change to DOCG from April |
 |
Hardys new Bin 53 range 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. The brand’s heritage is reinforced through the recently-unveiled new-look packaging that runs across the entire Hardys portfolio and which places strong emphasis on the ‘Established 1853’ message. The Bin 53 range is targeted at 35-54 year olds with busy family lives who enjoy drinking wine at home regularly to relax. It is available in Shiraz and Chardonnay varietals, with a RRP of £7.99, Hardys will be on television from September to December this year, as part of Constellation’s TV sponsorship of Channel 4’s hit show Come Dine With Me. |
 |
Freixenet introduces premium Cava in bottles designed by Holmes & Marchant |
| New on the menu from Berberana 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. The company says the range has been developed to suit the wine needs of today’s consumer by offering approachable fruit-driven wines that deliver quality at an affordable prices and – in a new move for the industry - clear food matching recommendations on the front label. Produced from two classic Spanish varietals, Airen and Tempranillo, and presented in a bespoke bottle design with embossed ‘B’ logo, both the red and white wines will retail at £5.99. An on-pack collar promotion will support the launch, giving consumers the opportunity to win a luxury week in Spain. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Half bottles found a popular option 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. • Read the report |
 |
Two new Makana wines launched into UK market
South African producer, Cape First Wines, has made two new additions to its Makana brand – Makana Brut Blanc de Blanc NV (RRP £7.99) made from 100% Chardonnay and Makana Rose 2009 (RRP £5.99) from a blend of Pinotage, Shiraz and Merlot – aimed at the independent trade. |
 |
| Dressed up for Christmas Tokaj producer Disznókö is offering its Aszú 5 puttonyos 2001 in a cream and blue gift box, designed to match last year’s new bottle livery (RRP £22). Disznókö - a Tokaj first growth – is owned by AXA Millésimes and has benefited over the last 20 years from one of the most significant investments made in wine production in Hungary. |
 |
 |
In a dreamlike world |
Wine consumption barely rises in the US Wente Family appoints Fells in UK WMS gives Tesco.com customers a better service |
 |
Waitrose list Rimon pomegranate wine 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. The supermarket expects the Rimon desert wine, made from the popular health-giving fruit, to be a big hit this autumn. "It matches well with fruit puddings, such as crumble, and will be a delicious accompaniment to a cheese board," he says. • Read the report |
New look for Taittinger Champagne Taittinger is introducing new packaging for its six cuvées to create a family look across all its wines and improve visibility in both the on- and off-trade environments. Current packaging divides the range into two distinct families with different shaped labels, different seals and different graphics; the new design will give consistency and harmony across the range. • Read the report |
 |
 |
Rioja has
highest resveratrol content With the completion of an €800.000 research and development project, wines produced by nine wineries from La Rioja (Bodegas Bilbaínas, Bodegas Dinastía Vivanco, Bodegas Viña Hermosa, Bodegas Juan Alcorta, Marqués de Murrieta, Bodegas Ontañón, Bodegas Patrocinio, Regalía 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. • Read the report |
Moroccan wine comes to UK supermarket 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 from September 2, priced at £5.49, down from £9.49 rrp, until September 27. Castel, France’s largest wine company, has been producing wine in Morocco since 1994 in the Boulaouane and Meknès regions that have a sunny, mild temperate climate and high altitudes. It was the French colonists that originally developed Morocc's wine business, which today is producing over 34 million bottles a year (30m of which is consumed in Morocco). After a vigorous restructuring programme, including the re-planting of thousands of vines of exclusively noble varieties, and the creation of state-of-the-art wineries, Castel is eporting quality wines from Morocco. Strong performance from Chile Arrogant Frog Tutti Frutti bursts into the UK |
Organic wines in eco-pouches A range of organic wines called Bivouac have been launched in a new eco-friendly pouch. The wines and the pouches from Groupe JeanJean were presented at Vinexpo and target environmentally-conscious consumers and wine drinkers, looking for good wines, easy to understand and practical for picnics and outdoor events. The range comprises three bi-varietals: Merlot Cabernet, Chardonnay Sauvignon and a Cinsault Grenache. The packaging arm of the group, Le Cep, produces the Wine Pouch, which it claims preserves the wine’s flavour for up to six weeks after opening. • Download information pdf • Trade enquiries |
 |
Jeanjean committed to 'sustainable development' Southern French wine producer and négociant, Jeanjean en Languedoc has strengthened its commitment to sustainable development by obtaining AFAQ 1000 NR assessment. It is the first company in the Languedoc-Roussillon and the first wine négociant in France to do this. |
 |
| Low cost natural cork developed for mass market A natural cork wine stopper that is so competitively priced that it can undercut alternatives by as much as 50%, has been launched by Corticeira Amorim, the world’s largest producer of cork closures. Acquamark is a premium whole machine-punched cork with a water-resistant coating to keep all the cork particles in place while providing maximum elasticity for the bottle-neck seal. It is aimed at the high-volume sectors of the wine trade, currently accounting for almost 80% of the market. • Read the report |
 |
McGuigan Bin Series launched 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. |
| McGuigan has also added a Rosé to its Estate portfolio and revamped the labeling onto bring the packaging into alignment with the core McGuigan brands’ Classic Grey Label, Black Label and Bin Series. The Rosé has from South-Eastern Australia is comprised of predominantly Shiraz and has an alcohol content of 12.5 per cent. The McGuigan Estate range also features Chardonnay and Shiraz – both sourced from selected vineyards in South Australia. All three wines have an RRP of £7.99 and are exclusive to Sainsbury’s. |
 |
| Argentinean rosé to boost sales in the UK Bodega Septima, Grupo Codorníu’s Argentinean winery in Agrelo, Mendoza, is launching a rosé specifically for the UK market. Designed to take advantage of the buoyant UK rosé category, this 100% Malbec varietal offers excellent value for money at an RSP of £5.99. Septima Rosé 2008 will be targeted at both on- and off-trade sectors. Currently, rosé wine accounts for only 2.3% of total Argentinean exports to the UK. |
 |
Survey points to changing wine tastes |
Paul Sapin puts new wine range in long-life PET 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. |
| A Merlot, Chardonnay and Syrah Rosé in 18.7cl and 75cl sizes have been sourced by Matthew Clark to serve at Royal Ascot and a number of concerts. Clare Montgomery, sales director at UK wine merchant Roger Harris Wines says: “PET is perfect for outdoor events, combining practicality with style. The bottle is lightweight, unbreakable and easy to serve. It is also recyclable and cuts carbon footprint in transportation and distribution.” The improved barrier properties of the new multi-layer PET has been proven to keep wine fresh for up to two years, resolving some of the quality issues previously associated with PET. |
 |
 |
Southern Rhône start-up secures multiple medals Chêne Bleu, a family-owned, boutique wine estate in Provence, tucked away at 1600ft in the foothills of Mt.Ventoux near Gigondas, has cause to celebrate. A decade in the making, all four wines from Chêne Bleu’s first commercially available vintage were launched last month and promptly submitted to the discriminating palates of the International Wine Challenge. They came away with no fewer than three medals: a coveted Gold for the Roussanne blend Aliot 2006, and two Silvers for their two Grenache- and Syrah-based blends, Abélard & Héloïse (both 2006). • Read the report |
| Gallo turns a new leaf 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 move follows research and consultation on how to draw in new consumers. The new packaging is designed to communicate a more premium positioning and create greater on-shelf stand out. The labels feature clear varietal differentiation and "bring to life" the leaf as the brand icon. |
 |
 |
Lanson UK announces three market initiatives 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. • Read the report |
 |
 |
Sud de France Maison creates strong UK business links in first year The first anniversary of a mission to raise the profile of the wine and food of the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southwest France in the UK is being marked this month. 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 as well as the trade press. The Maison, one of five around the world, is part of an initiative to raise the profile of the region under the banner Sud de France. • Read the report |
NASA’s dollars come to the aid of newbie NY winegrowers |
 |
| Berberana given brand identity 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. |
 |
Banrock Station gets new label design to reinforce its eco credentials Constellation Europe has given its Banrock Station wine a new look that is intended to reinforce the brand’s eco credentials. The label features a tree flowering from a wine bottle and the brand’s tagline ‘Good Earth - Fine Wine’ and the bottle uses a lighter-weight glass. |
|
| The new Mas Belles Eaux reds have arrived The first of the revitalised wines from the Languedoc estates purchased by AXA Millésimes five years ago have been released into the US and UK markets. The 2005 vintage Mas Belles Eaux red wines are the result of considerable work in the 90ha vineyard of the two adjoining estates, Belles Eaux and Sainte-Hélène in the southern Pézenas region, led by technical director Cédric Loiseau under AXA Millésimes’ managing director Christian Seely whose vision it was to invest in the region. The 2008 vintage will be the first produced in the new winery AXA Millésimes has built in the Mas Beaux 17th Century buildings, which also house a 600sqm traditional barrel cellar. |
Seely: Languedoc |
The range... includes single varietal wines under the new Mas Belles Eaux label, including Vieux Carignan (Vins de Pays de Caux), and two AOC Languedoc blends – Mas Belles Eaux Les Coteaux (70% Syrah/ 20%Grenache/10%), and Sainte-Hélène (80% Syrah/10% Grenache/10%Carignan) at the top-of-the-range. Christian Seely says they are getting closer to realising his aim – “to develop great terroir wines that express the Languedoc region’s individuality and wildness”. “In the current financial climate, Languedoc wines can offer great character for less money,” he says. But, he says, other than among connoisseurs or in the Americas where “they have more open minds” the region’s potential is yet to be fully appreciated. |
 |
LEAF Marque is on Bordeaux wines Bordeaux négociant Yvon Mau has introduced the first LEAF Marque wines into the UK. 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. There are also many benefits for the Chateaux following these strict farming methods as Felicity Murray finds out . . . • Read the report |
Safe environment |
Hong Kong... is set to be a wine hub for the East. As China’s thirst for fine wine continues to escalate, Hong Kong is well positioned to be the trading centre for the region. In just two years this financial capital has gone from one of the highest wine tax Jurisdictions to the lowest – from 80% to zero. The results have been dramatic and immediate. • Read on |
Bunker
Storage |
|
 Contact us Subscribeto our FREE fortnightly emailed newsletter |
| RSS feeds Click on the links below to receive topic-specific news alerts |
|
 Packaging |
|
| Wines |
|
| Spirits |
|
| Business |
|
| Mix & Match • Liqueurs • Cocktails • Food & drink |
©Copyright2009
The Drinks Report