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Yesterday, Barcelona Wine Week 2026 drew to a close following three days packed with tastings, talks and seminars, uniting 26,000 attendees to fly the flag high for Spanish wine. db has rounded up the hottest talking points.
Five takeaways from Barcelona Wine Week 2026
Yesterday, Barcelona Wine Week 2026 drew to a close following three days packed with tastings, talks and seminars, uniting 26,000 attendees to fly the flag high for Spanish wine. db has rounded up the...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 6, 2026 at 12:34 PM
Yesterday, Barcelona Wine Week 2026 drew to a close following three days packed with tastings, talks and seminars, uniting 26,000 attendees to fly the flag high for Spanish wine. db has rounded up the hottest talking points.
Speaking to db at Hallgarten’s largest-ever tasting, Coterie Holdings CEO, Michael Saunders, argued that premium wine is no longer a niche strategy but a commercial necessity in a polarising UK market.
Michael Saunders: 'Cheap wine is sort of a misnomer, almost'
Speaking to db at Hallgarten's largest-ever tasting, Coterie Holdings CEO, Michael Saunders, argued that premium wine is no longer a niche strategy but a commercial necessity in a polarising UK market...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 6, 2026 at 12:33 PM
Speaking to db at Hallgarten’s largest-ever tasting, Coterie Holdings CEO, Michael Saunders, argued that premium wine is no longer a niche strategy but a commercial necessity in a polarising UK market.
Dogfish Head Brewery has slaked the thirst of hop chasers in Delaware for the past 30 years. Jessica Mason speaks to its founder Sam Calagione to find out how beer began to “colour outside the lines”.
Beer Hour: Sam Calagione
Boston Beer’s Dogfish Head Brewery has slaked the thirst of hop chasers in Delaware for the past 30 years. Jessica Mason speaks to its founder Sam Calagione to find out how beer began to “colour outsi...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 5, 2026 at 12:07 PM
Dogfish Head Brewery has slaked the thirst of hop chasers in Delaware for the past 30 years. Jessica Mason speaks to its founder Sam Calagione to find out how beer began to “colour outside the lines”.
Last October, Yealands Wine Group quietly split in two following a “disappointing and concerning” year of operating losses. Sarah Neish discovers why the break has been a boon for the New Zealand producer, and what its rebirth might mean for the sector.
Yealands Wine Group split "a positive", says winemaker
Last October Yealands Wine Group quietly split in two following a "disappointing and concerning" year of operating losses. Sarah Neish discovers why the break has been a boon for the New Zealand produ...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 5, 2026 at 12:05 PM
Last October, Yealands Wine Group quietly split in two following a “disappointing and concerning” year of operating losses. Sarah Neish discovers why the break has been a boon for the New Zealand producer, and what its rebirth might mean for the sector.
Wales will increase its minimum unit price for alcohol from 50p to 65p from October. Ministers say the move is designed to restore the policy’s impact after inflation weakened the existing rate.
Wales raises minimum alcohol price to 65p per unit
Wales will increase its minimum unit price for alcohol from 50p to 65p from October. Ministers say the move is designed to restore the policy’s impact after inflation weakened the existing rate.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 5, 2026 at 12:04 PM
Wales will increase its minimum unit price for alcohol from 50p to 65p from October. Ministers say the move is designed to restore the policy’s impact after inflation weakened the existing rate.
As more Americans cut back on alcohol, Dry January is increasingly becoming a moment of substitution rather than abstinence. Cannabis drinks and edibles are gaining ground as consumers rethink intoxication, ritual and wellbeing, writes Kathleen Willcox.
Dry January drives shift from alcohol to cannabis in the US
As more Americans cut back on alcohol, Dry January is increasingly becoming a moment of substitution rather than abstinence. Cannabis drinks and edibles are gaining ground as consumers rethink intoxic...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 4, 2026 at 12:41 PM
As more Americans cut back on alcohol, Dry January is increasingly becoming a moment of substitution rather than abstinence. Cannabis drinks and edibles are gaining ground as consumers rethink intoxication, ritual and wellbeing, writes Kathleen Willcox.
Fine wine merchant Jeroboams has launched its own trading platform and Private Cellar Plan to offer clients a better chance to enjoy and “interact” with the wine collection, while filling a gap in its business model.
Jeroboams launches its own fine wine exchange platform
Fine wine merchant Jeroboams has launched its own trading platform and Private Cellar Plan to offer clients a better chance to enjoy and “interact” with the wine collection, while filling a gap in its...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 4, 2026 at 12:37 PM
Fine wine merchant Jeroboams has launched its own trading platform and Private Cellar Plan to offer clients a better chance to enjoy and “interact” with the wine collection, while filling a gap in its business model.
VCT Europe has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Provence rosé producer Maison Mirabeau, subject to regulatory approval. The deal brings together two B Corp-certified wine businesses with shared ambitions for premium growth and sustainability.
Concha y Toro takes majority stake in Maison Mirabeau
VCT Europe has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Provence rosé producer Maison Mirabeau, subject to regulatory approval. The deal brings together two B Corp-certified wine businesses with shared a...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 4, 2026 at 12:36 PM
VCT Europe has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Provence rosé producer Maison Mirabeau, subject to regulatory approval. The deal brings together two B Corp-certified wine businesses with shared ambitions for premium growth and sustainability.
The UK wine trade body opens its 2026 programme with its largest ever exhibition presence as overseas interest gathers pace. A strong recent harvest adds confidence as producers look to build new routes to market.
WineGB returns to Wine Paris with expanded stand and export ambition
The UK wine trade body opens its 2026 programme with its largest ever exhibition presence as overseas interest gathers pace. A strong recent harvest adds confidence as producers look to build new rout...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 3, 2026 at 11:44 AM
The UK wine trade body opens its 2026 programme with its largest ever exhibition presence as overseas interest gathers pace. A strong recent harvest adds confidence as producers look to build new routes to market.
According to Cellar Tracker’s CEO, the aptly named Eric LeVine, wine consumption is still in a healthy place, with dry January showing no inroads in the wine community. He talks to Arabella Mileham about the apps’ insights and what it says about today’s collecting, buying and drinking habits.
Cellar Tracker: the 'doom and gloom narrative' of wine's falling consumption is 'a little overplayed'
According to Cellar Tracker's CEO, the aptly named Eric LeVine, wine consumption is still in a healthy place, with dry January showing no inroads in the wine community. He talks to Arabella Mileham ab...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 3, 2026 at 11:42 AM
According to Cellar Tracker’s CEO, the aptly named Eric LeVine, wine consumption is still in a healthy place, with dry January showing no inroads in the wine community. He talks to Arabella Mileham about the apps’ insights and what it says about today’s collecting, buying and drinking habits.
A beer tap labelled “Rachel Thieves” has appeared on the bar of a Hertfordshire pub in protest of Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves introducing crippling tax hikes.
Pub mocks Chancellor with ‘Rachel Thieves’ beer tap
A beer tap labelled "Rachel Thieves" has appeared on the bar of a Hertfordshire pub in protest of Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves introducing crippling tax hikes.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 3, 2026 at 11:36 AM
A beer tap labelled “Rachel Thieves” has appeared on the bar of a Hertfordshire pub in protest of Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves introducing crippling tax hikes.
As senior growers step back, Chile’s old-vine vineyards are coming onto the market, creating new opportunities for international investors and winemakers.
Ancestral Chilean vineyards seek investors amid generational shift
As senior growers step back, Chile’s old-vine vineyards are coming onto the market, creating new opportunities for international investors.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 2, 2026 at 12:39 PM
As senior growers step back, Chile’s old-vine vineyards are coming onto the market, creating new opportunities for international investors and winemakers.
A Guinness kebab, marinated in the black stuff, is launching this week just in time for the start of the Six Nations.
You can now buy a Guinness kebab
A Guinness kebab, marinated in the black stuff, is launching this week just in time for the start of the Six Nations.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 2, 2026 at 12:37 PM
A Guinness kebab, marinated in the black stuff, is launching this week just in time for the start of the Six Nations.
China has agreed to halve its import tariffs on Scotch whisky, offering export gains for UK distillers. At home, however, a new rise in excise duty has reignited industry anger over taxation and lost growth.
China cuts tariffs on Scotch whisky
China has agreed to halve its import tariffs on Scotch whisky, offering export gains for UK distillers. At home, however, a new rise in excise duty has reignited industry anger over taxation and lost ...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 2, 2026 at 12:36 PM
China has agreed to halve its import tariffs on Scotch whisky, offering export gains for UK distillers. At home, however, a new rise in excise duty has reignited industry anger over taxation and lost growth.
Pop star Kylie Minogue is set to attend next week’s Wine Paris trade fair, where she will present her portfolio of wines, as well as give out a special award at the exhibition’s The V’Dor Ceremony on Sunday night.
Kylie Minogue to attend Wine Paris
Pop star Kylie Minogue is set to attend next week's Wine Paris trade fair, where she will present her portfolio of wines.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 2, 2026 at 12:35 PM
Pop star Kylie Minogue is set to attend next week’s Wine Paris trade fair, where she will present her portfolio of wines, as well as give out a special award at the exhibition’s The V’Dor Ceremony on Sunday night.
Alcohol duty will now rise by 3.66%, pushing the UK to the top of Europe’s wine tax league and adding fresh pressure on pubs, producers and consumers alike.
UK to pay highest wine tax in Europe
Alcohol duty will now rise by 3.66%, pushing the UK to the top of Europe’s wine tax league and adding fresh pressure.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
February 2, 2026 at 12:34 PM
Alcohol duty will now rise by 3.66%, pushing the UK to the top of Europe’s wine tax league and adding fresh pressure on pubs, producers and consumers alike.
Derek Prentice MBE is known widely across the industry as one of London’s most experienced brewers. Decorated with lifetime achievement awards, he is, as many will attest, a bit of a legend. In a new series, Jessica Mason reports.
Beer Hour: Derek Prentice MBE
Derek Prentice MBE is known widely across the industry as one of London’s most experienced brewers. Decorated with lifetime achievement awards, he is, as many will attest, a bit of a legend. In a new ...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 30, 2026 at 12:56 PM
Derek Prentice MBE is known widely across the industry as one of London’s most experienced brewers. Decorated with lifetime achievement awards, he is, as many will attest, a bit of a legend. In a new series, Jessica Mason reports.
California’s drought-free declaration marks a psychological turning point after decades of water stress. But industry leaders tell db that long-term discipline, not short-term relief, must continue to shape vineyard and winery decisions.
‘Anytime we are not in a drought is positive’: California Wine Institute
California’s drought-free declaration marks a psychological turning point after decades of water stress. But industry leaders tell db that long-term discipline, not short-term relief, must continue to...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 30, 2026 at 12:54 PM
California’s drought-free declaration marks a psychological turning point after decades of water stress. But industry leaders tell db that long-term discipline, not short-term relief, must continue to shape vineyard and winery decisions.
Anthony George Pigé Leschallas led Mentzendorff through a defining period and helped establish Bollinger as one of Britain’s most distinguished Champagne brands. His life and legacy are remembered here by Alan Montague-Dennis, director of prestige sales at Mentzendorff.
Anthony Leschallas, Mentzendorff MD, dies aged 92
Anthony George Pigé Leschallas led Mentzendorff through a defining period and helped establish Bollinger as one of Britain’s most distinguished Champagne brands. His life and legacy are remembered her...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 29, 2026 at 12:38 PM
Anthony George Pigé Leschallas led Mentzendorff through a defining period and helped establish Bollinger as one of Britain’s most distinguished Champagne brands. His life and legacy are remembered here by Alan Montague-Dennis, director of prestige sales at Mentzendorff.
Good storage allows wine to age slowly, gracefully and without complaint. In the second of a two-part series, experts outline the smartest solutions for modern homes and serious collections alike.
The best places to store wine at home
Good storage allows wine to age slowly, gracefully and without complaint. In the second of a two-part series, experts outline the smartest solutions for modern homes and serious collections alike.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 29, 2026 at 12:34 PM
Good storage allows wine to age slowly, gracefully and without complaint. In the second of a two-part series, experts outline the smartest solutions for modern homes and serious collections alike.
The Wine Society has delivered the biggest Christmas in its 151-year history, posting record festive sales and its highest ever member participation. Champagne and fine wine led growth as shoppers spent more and bought in greater volumes during the nine-week trading period.
The Wine Society posts best-ever Christmas with £35m in festive sales
The Wine Society has delivered the biggest Christmas in its 151-year history, posting record festive sales and its highest ever member participation. Champagne and fine wine led growth as shoppers spe...
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 29, 2026 at 12:32 PM
The Wine Society has delivered the biggest Christmas in its 151-year history, posting record festive sales and its highest ever member participation. Champagne and fine wine led growth as shoppers spent more and bought in greater volumes during the nine-week trading period.
In a landmark moment, India and the EU have signed a trade deal that will see the 150% tariffs on European produce, including wine, spirits and beer, slashed in half, and then further reduced.
What does the EU-India trade deal mean for wine?
In a landmark moment, India and the EU have signed a trade deal that will see the 150% tariffs on European produce, including wine, spirits and beer, slashed in half, and then further reduced.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 27, 2026 at 5:29 PM
In a landmark moment, India and the EU have signed a trade deal that will see the 150% tariffs on European produce, including wine, spirits and beer, slashed in half, and then further reduced.
As January draws to a close, db speaks with Julian Braithwaite, chief executive of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD), to ask whether scientific research really supports the idea that a month without beer, wine or spirits is good for our health.
Does the science support ‘Dry January’?
Julian Braithwaite of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking considers the health implications of a month without alcohol.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 27, 2026 at 12:40 PM
As January draws to a close, db speaks with Julian Braithwaite, chief executive of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD), to ask whether scientific research really supports the idea that a month without beer, wine or spirits is good for our health.
UK pubs are to benefit from a government support package worth £100m that is due to be unveiled by the Chancellor today, it has been reported.
Government to announce £100m support package for pubs following business rates revolt
UK pubs are to benefit from a government support package worth £100m that is due to be unveiled by the Chancellor today, it has been reported.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 27, 2026 at 12:38 PM
UK pubs are to benefit from a government support package worth £100m that is due to be unveiled by the Chancellor today, it has been reported.
New IWSR data shows no and low alcohol and alcohol adjacent drinks are booming, driven by very different consumer motivations and occasions.
No and low alcohol and functional drinks surge – but not for the same reasons
New IWSR data shows no and low alcohol and alcohol adjacent drinks are booming, driven by very different consumer motivations and occasions.
www.thedrinksbusiness.com
January 23, 2026 at 12:31 PM
New IWSR data shows no and low alcohol and alcohol adjacent drinks are booming, driven by very different consumer motivations and occasions.