Harvest comes early for Santa Barbara sparkling wine grapes

On June 30th, grapes for sparkling wine were picked in Santa Barbara County, the earliest anyone can remember.

Beckham 'shamed' for drinking red wine at the World Cup

After football fans took to social media to slam former England player David Beckham for drinking a "posh" drink at a World Cup game, db tapped industry figures for their reactions.

California wine, ag industries face growing pest problem after years of funding decline

California finds itself in the midst of a significant glassy-winged sharpshooter threat — on top of rising pest threats as a whole.

It’s one of Napa’s most historic wineries. Can this stunning makeover bring back its glory days?

For years, most diners at Napa Valley’s always-busy Rutherford Grill, a Hillstone group restaurant, have overlooked the unassuming tasting room tucked away in a shared parking lot, next to an industrial winemaking facility.

Irish Liquor Lawyer writes U.S. Supreme Court Amicus Brief

Today, I filed my fifth amicus brief before the United States Supreme Court, this time in Yost v. Miller.

California pleads with Quebec to lift trade ban

Californian members of Congress have written to Christine Fréchette, the new Premier of Canadian province Quebec, urging her to reopen trade for US wine.

Mourvèdre Was Made for Heat. Rising Temperatures Are Testing It

In a warming climate, even one of the world’s most heat-tolerant grape varieties is reaching its limits.

France’s Vineyards Face Record Heat Crisis

Extreme summer temperatures are scorching French vineyards, forcing early harvest forecasts and threatening yields. Winemakers pray for rain to save the vintage.

5 Things We Learned in June 2026

The cultural pendulum is swinging and wine may benefit.

White Rhône: understanding how the landscape is changing

There was a time when, apart from Condrieu and Hermitage, the Rhône valley was almost exclusively the domain for red wine. That has all changed with white Rhône taking an increasing share of production as changes in the climate, vineyard, terroir and appellations have all had their effects.

Do global awards actually drive Japanese wine sales? 

Japanese wines have long been recognised by the likes of DWWA and IWSC, but for a country whose majority of wineries are mom-and-pop shops, do these accolades actually matter to producers looking to grow exports? Joyce Yip finds out. 

Debate: What Bordeaux needs to do to maximise its potential

Helen Arnold and Richard Siddle talk to key buyers, importers and wine merchants about how they see Bordeaux getting a wider footprint in the premium on-trade and the huge potential the region has for its white, rosé and sparkling wines.

How a wine region carves out an identity, where once there was none

The El Dorado Eight redefines the El Dorado AVA in terms of Sierra Spice

Johnson Brothers Expands Partnership with Bogle Family Wine Collection into Indiana, Nebraska, and South Dakota

Johnson Brothers, a leading family-owned distributor of wine, spirits, and beer, today announced the expansion of its partnership with Bogle Family Wine Collection into Indiana, Nebraska, and South Dakota, further strengthening a relationship built on shared principles and a mutual commitment to bringing exceptional wines to more consumers.

M.S. Walker Brands Expands Italian Wine Import Portfolio with Iconic & Emerging Estates

M.S. Walker Brands continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of contemporary Italian wine with the addition of Cantina Fabio Motta, Marabino, Mulassano Vermouth and alpine producer Laurent Théodule.

Bâtonnage Forum Kicks Off Online Event Series with Alison Thomson and Alecia Moore of Two Wolves Wine

New summer event programming built around conversation, connection, and mentorship in wine.

Uncork Loudoun Launches Wine Education Series

The efforts of Loudoun winemakers to move more of their offerings onto restaurant menus and grocery store displays are ramping up again with the introduction of the Uncork Loudoun Trade.

Debbie Inglis and Jennifer Kelly on strengthening grapevine resiliency

The latest in a series of articles from Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) outlining ways to boost Canada’s grape and wine sector is now published in the online journal Open Access Government.

Researchers will launch Texas wine grapes into space

What happens when you mix a grape and cosmic radiation? Folks at Texas A&M are soon to find out.

It’s one of Napa’s most historic wineries. Can this stunning makeover bring back its glory days?

For years, most diners at Napa Valley’s always-busy Rutherford Grill, a Hillstone group restaurant, have overlooked the unassuming tasting room tucked away in a shared parking lot, next to an industrial winemaking facility.

California pleads with Quebec to lift trade ban

Californian members of Congress have written to Christine Fréchette, the new Premier of Canadian province Quebec, urging her to reopen trade for US wine. They claim that American wineries "have no connection" to the "underlying trade disputes".

Irish Liquor Lawyer writes U.S. Supreme Court Amicus Brief

Today, I filed my fifth amicus brief before the United States Supreme Court, this time in Yost v. Miller.

New fungicide combats powdery and downy mildew in vineyards using less copper

The amoeba lysate-based fungicide Axpera, developed by Lyon firm Amoeba, received permanent marketing authorisation for use against downy mildew and powdery mildew.

Steve Dutton and Melissa Stackhouse Partner on Grapes, Terroir and Winemaking

Meet the duo behind Dutton-Goldfield. Steve Dutton's 40+ years of grape growing meets Melissa Stackhouse's winemaking expertise in this look at terroir-driven California wines.

Reyes Gains Sazerac In CO, Expanding Multistate Partnership

Fresh off of closing its acquisition of 11 state businesses from RNDC, Reyes Beverage Group continues to bolster its wine and spirits portfolio.

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits to cut up to 219 jobs in US

‘We are redirecting our resources where the business is moving and towards areas of growth.’

Wilson Daniels Partners With Johnson Brothers, Reyes In Former RNDC Markets

New York-based importer, marketer, and wholesaler Wilson Daniels has aligned with Johnson Brothers and Reyes Beverage Group across 12 states where its brands have previously been handled by RNDC.

Oregon's wine industry shows signs of contraction

Industry adjusts to lower sales and exports Oregon’s 2025 winegrape production dropped 25% and acreage harvested dipped 12% from the previous year due to declining sales and exports.

The Consumer Has Said What They Want. Is Wine Willing to Listen?

New research listened to social media, online conversations and found fun, not fuss wins out.

Former Diageo veteran joins Terlato Wine Group

US-based luxury wine producer Terlato Wine Group has appointed former Diageo executive Gregorio Gutierrez MacAllister as its new chief operating officer, as the family-owned company looks to accelerate its next phase of growth.

Bouchaine Vineyards adds Eriksen to leadership team

Bouchaine Vineyards has named longtime hospitality executive David Eriksen as its new direct-to-consumer director.

The winemaker for Napa’s loftiest winery is retiring after 25 years

The upcoming 2026 harvest will be winemaker Michael Silacci’s last for Napa’s illustrious Opus One.  

Building a special relationship: An American view of English wine

After visiting some of England's best producers, New York-based wine writer Jim Clarke offers a transatlantic perspective on English wine.

South Africa Tackles Changing Times

Despite various climate-related struggles, South Africa pushes towards a bright future.

H1 sees disciplined buyers, selective demand and broadly stable prices for fine wine

The first half of the year marked "a turning point" for investors of fine wine, a recent Q2 report from WineCap has said. With Bordeaux back vintages dominating, tit proves that the fine wine market is increasingly rewarding "disciplined buying”.

Fred Reno Announces The Release Of His Memoir-Fine Wine Confidential

Fred Reno announced the official release of his new book FINE WINE CONFIDENTIAL today.

Climate change could redraw California wine country maps

Researchers warn climate change could reduce wine production in California’s iconic wine regions, including Napa and Sonoma, while counties such as Mendocino and Monterey may become better suited for vineyards by the end of the century.

Germany's Next Chapter in Wine

Germany’s wine future is taking shape through non-alcoholic wines, PiWi grapes, and natural winemaking rooted in sustainability, tradition, and changing consumer demand.

New fungicide combats powdery and downy mildew in vineyards using less copper

The amoeba lysate-based fungicide Axpera, developed by Lyon firm Amoeba, received permanent marketing authorisation for use against downy mildew and also powdery mildew in France on June 30.

Steve Dutton and Melissa Stackhouse Partner on Grapes, Terroir and Winemaking

Meet the duo behind Dutton-Goldfield. Steve Dutton's 40+ years of grape growing meets Melissa Stackhouse's winemaking expertise in this look at terroir-driven California wines.

Reyes Gains Sazerac In CO, Expanding Multistate Partnership

Fresh off of closing its acquisition of 11 state businesses from RNDC, Reyes Beverage Group continues to bolster its wine and spirits portfolio.

Constellation offloads clutch of NZ wine brands

Constellation Brands has sold a range of wine brands in New Zealand, its latest disposal of assets in the sector.

Here's an alcohol and health study we should be shouting about

If you get relatively fit (and this is not a high bar) it seems you can mitigate any negative effects of alcohol consumption on lifestyle.

Virginia wines top French competition in Paris

It's happened: Virginia wines have beat their French counterparts in an official blind tasting.

J. Lohr Winemaker Kristen Barnhisel Returns as ASEV President for 2026-2027

Kristen Barnhisel, Winemaker, White Wines, at J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, has been confirmed as president of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) for the 2026-2027 term, effective July 1.

Terlato Appoints Diageo Veteran Gutierrez As COO

After last week announcing the retirement of COO Sandra LeDrew, Terlato Wine Group has appointed Diageo veteran Gregorio Gutierrez MacAllister as its new chief operating officer, effective July 13.

How Weight Loss is Hitting Wine

There's no clear data yet on how weight-loss drugs affect wine consumption, but comprehensive answers are around the corner.

Small Formats Driving Big Gains In Wine And Spirits

With consumption patterns in flux and consumer spending influenced by lower disposable incomes, wines and spirits in smaller format packages are growing, with suppliers and retailers reporting gains for 50-, 100-, 200-, and 375-ml. formats.

California and Burgundy Gave Chardonnay a Reputation. Can Oregon Break Through?

No grape has experienced the simultaneous highs and lows of the wine world quite like Chardonnay.

Local Government: Napa County Planning Commission Stalls Bremer Family Winery Expansion

A Napa County Planning Commission hearing on Bremer Family Winery’s proposed expansion ended without approval July 1 as commissioners raised concerns about traffic safety, water supply and wastewater plans.

Trade bodies hit out at Germany's alcohol tax plans

German trade associations have criticised the federal government's plans to implement higher taxes on alcoholic drinks.

Hot Summer Leading To Concerns Over Wine Harvest In France

France's scorching summer is stunting grape growth in wine regions including Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy, threatening a smaller crop.

Dry or Wet? Preparing for El Niño's Potential Effects on Crops

Meteorologists are forecasting a strong El Niño developing this fall and persisting through early 2027, and while every El Niño is a little different, there are some weather patterns typically seen from these events.

Global warming, increasing wildfire risk threaten viability of some California winery regions

Grape yield and quality are very sensitive to the local environment.

H is for Hospitality

Hospitality is bidirectional.

Cambridge wine bar Dear Annie to close, citing increasingly corporate restaurant scene

The acclaimed wine bar will shutter July 31. Owner Lauren Friel says motherhood and a dining landscape increasingly dominated by large hospitality groups all factored into the decision.

Côtes Du Rhône launches campaign dedicated to chilled wines

With summer in full swing, the Côtes du Rhône AOC has launched a campaign targeting younger consumers by encouraging them to refresh their expectations as well as their glass, by chilling their wine.

AI Is Coming for the Marketing Department

Artificial intelligence proved itself as capable as copywriters in creating marketing emails about wine.

Constellation offloads clutch of NZ wine brands

Constellation Brands has sold a range of wine brands in New Zealand, its latest disposal of assets in the sector.

Here's an alcohol and health study we should be shouting about

If you get relatively fit (and this is not a high bar) it seems you can mitigate any negative effects of alcohol consumption on lifestyle.

Champagne Rebounds In The U.S.

While the wine category overall continues to be challenged by moderation trends, lower disposable incomes, and heightened competition from other drinks categories, the Champagne segment has taken a step forward recently.

Wildfires rage across southern Europe, forcing thousands to flee homes

Tour de France spectator ban as country along with Spain, Portugal and Greece faces ‘powder keg’ after heatwave.

Only so many hours in the day: How declines in tasting room visitation are at their heart a post-Covid math problem

The prevailing narrative is that wine country is facing declining visitation. But hotel data suggests that's not true. So why are estate tasting rooms seeing fewer customers?

NAWR Statement on Irresponsible and Biased Alcohol-Related Commentary

When we consider the physiological effects, the data regarding moderate alcohol consumption, and the historical context of tobacco stigmatization, it becomes clear that Dr. Fenske’s claims and prescriptions can’t be considered anything other than propaganda.

Wine Slump Moves into Late June as Weekly Sales Stall - NielsenIQ BevAl Market Report

In the four weeks ending June 27th, Wine held relatively consistent pressure, with dollar sales down -4.5% and volume declining -6.2%.

Maker of Mondavi and The Prisoner wines reports sales growth for remaining wine and spirits brands

But excluding the divested brands, Constellation Brands’ wine and spirits business looked much improved a year after selling off a portfolio of lower-end wine brands.

Wine and the price of time

William Kelley on the central role played by historically low interest rates in shaping contemporary Bordeaux.

Bordeaux Vineyard Prices: 'Everyone impacted'

The Fédération Nationale des SAFER recently published its annual study of the French rural land market, which includes the only statistics relating to the sales of vineyards and wine estates in France.

Provence wines launch €1.65-million climate plan

A funding agreement has been signed between national intervention board FranceAgriMer and the Côtes de Provence producers’ organisation, officially launching the ambitious ‘Provence Green’ programme designed to expedite environmental transition across the wine region.

How climate change is reshaping the identity of Vinhos Verdes

Climate change is having a major impact on winemaking, none more so than in regions such as Vinhos Verdes whose reputation rests on freshness, moderate alcohol and vibrant acidity.

TWE puts Riverland wine estate up for sale

Treasury Wine Estates is seeking a buyer for its Markaranka property in South Australia's Riverland, one of the nation's hardest-hit regions by climate change.

Virginia wines top French competition in Paris

It's happened: Virginia wines have beat their French counterparts in an official blind tasting.

The MICHELIN Guide Reveals Its Very First grape Selection

The MICHELIN Guide has chosen the historic Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy - France – now home to Dijon City Hall – as the setting to unveil the first-ever 2026 MICHELIN Grape Selection.

20th Annual DTC Wine Symposium Opens Early Bird Registration for 2027 Event in Monterey

Premier Industry Conference Announces Stellar Keynote Lineup and Expanded Programming for Landmark 20th Anniversary

Women For WineSense Napa-Sonoma Grand Tasting Brings Together Eleven North Coast Producers, Immersive Art, and Live Music for One Evening at Napa Valley College

Tickets Available Now for the July 9 Event, Presented in Partnership with the 47th Annual Society of Wine Educators Conference

A Napa Valley original returns to the UK

Freemark Abbey’s story – from a female pioneer to the Judgment of Paris – adds a chapter as it reintroduces itself to UK buyers.

Moon Mountain – Sonoma's Volcanic Organic Stronghold

My monthly tasting column for Jancis Robinson subscribers covers the intense and volcanic wines of Sonoma's Moon Mountain District.

Winery Enjoys the Fruits of Experimentation

Making mistakes is a crucial element of success, according to the family behind Sicily's Regaleali estate.

Wildfires rage across southern Europe, forcing thousands to flee homes

Tour de France spectator ban as country along with Spain, Portugal and Greece faces ‘powder keg’ after heatwave.

Only so many hours in the day: How declines in tasting room visitation are at their heart a post-Covid math problem

The prevailing narrative is that wine country is facing declining visitation. But hotel data suggests that's not true. So why are estate tasting rooms seeing fewer customers?

Statement on Irresponsible and Biased Alcohol-Related Commentary

When we consider the physiological effects, the data regarding moderate alcohol consumption, and the historical context of tobacco stigmatization, it becomes clear that Dr. Fenske’s claims and prescriptions can’t be considered anything other than propaganda.

Joe Campbell, Willamette Valley wine pioneer, passes away

Joe Campbell, founder of Elk Cove Vineyards in Willamette Valley, passed away June 28th in Sherwood, Oregon. He was 87 years old.

Why wine sales in fine dining restaurants are at a crossroads

If there is a reckoning to be had, this is probably a good time, before enthusiasm for wine sinks completely into oblivion.

Unified Wine & Grape Symposium Taps Owen and Feuchuk to Shape 2027 Program as Industry Navigates Pivotal Year

With the wine industry confronting some of the most consequential questions in a generation, the team that will shape the conversation at the industry's largest gathering is now in place.

Oregon Wine Board Releases 2025 Oregon Vineyard and Winery Census Report

Annual report details 2025 harvest, production, and sales trends across Oregon’s statewide wine industry.

North Coast wine grape crop trending much lighter as demand remains tepid

Growers in Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino and Lake counties face an early 2026 harvest with lighter yields as they navigate market uncertainty and distribution hurdles.

Record heatwave devastates French vineyards as UK wine booms

Temperatures up to 44°C have burnt grapes, reduced yields and altered flavours, forcing French growers to uproot thousands of hectares.

Pocket Fire smoke could threaten Verde Valley wine harvest

Smoke from the Pocket Fire is drifting across the Verde Valley, raising concerns for at least one of Arizona’s most prominent vineyards as it approaches harvest season.

Will Bordeaux feel the heat over irrigation rules?

Lafleur, which withdrew from both Pomerol AOC and the Bordeaux designation last year partly over irrigation, has already started to irrigate its vines this year.

California’s winery shakedown tests limits of free speech, association

A California county is trying to force businesses to pay dues to a trade association they may not support — just like unions that once forced workers to join and to pay dues.

Napa's latest Bremer winery battle to continue

Napa County planners postponed action on Bremer Family Winery's expansion after commissioners raised concerns about traffic safety, water reliability and increased visitation, sending the proposal back for revisions.

New marketing chairman says “We need to sell Alsace wines in cans”

The newly elected chairman of the Alsace wine marketing board (CIVA), Didier Pettermann, has hit the ground running, presenting members with his roadmap.

Sustainable Wine Roundtable Builds on Bottle Weight Progress With Broader Industry Goals

SWR Maps Out Next Five Years of Industry Sustainability Initiatives

Independent study of high-end Napa wine buyers reaches 70 interviews, maps six distinct buyer psychologies

First in a series of findings from the Napa Valley Wine Study, with new releases to follow as research continues toward its goal of 250 interviews.

The importance of fine wine data: 'each bad decision has a cost'

The future of the fine wine trade will be shaped not just by relationships and expertise, but by the ability to turn information into insight, says Tom Burchfield, Liv-ex's head of decision intelligence.

When Napa met Bordeaux

The first transatlantic joint venture Opus One involved icons of 20th century wine.

Finger Lakes couple nurturing brand of wines that 'don’t really check a box but are all about joy'

Vagabond Wines is the creation of winemaker Alex Bond and her husband Jimmer Bond.

A Napa Valley Power Couple Is Back Making Amazing Cabernet Sauvignons

Favia discontinued its Valley cuvée in 2013 to focus on single-vineyard wines, but it just made a stunning return.

Joe Campbell, Willamette Valley wine pioneer, passes away

Joe Campbell, founder of Elk Cove Vineyards in Willamette Valley, passed away June 28th in Sherwood, Oregon. He was 87 years old.

Unified Wine & Grape Symposium Taps Owen and Feuchuk to Shape 2027 Program as Industry Navigates Pivotal Year

With the wine industry confronting some of the most consequential questions in a generation, the team that will shape the conversation at the industry's largest gathering is now in place.

US refuses to renew Mexico, Canada trade deal

A statement yesterday (1 July) from US trade representative Jamieson Greer confirmed the country "did not agree to renew the USMCA in its current form".

Constellation's wine and spirits sales down nearly 50%

Constellation Brands’ first quarter results, although soft, provided some cheer and beat analysts’ forecasts. Beer is up, wine and spirits are considerably down and Tequila is well and truly stealing the show.

Why wine sales in fine dining restaurants are at a crossroads

If there is a reckoning to be had, this is probably a good time, before enthusiasm for wine sinks completely into oblivion.

Latest figures show decline for French organic drinks

Though the organic sector overall is growing in France, statistics for 2025 show that alcoholic beverages are the only categories shrinking.

Kroger Announces Agreement to Acquire Giant Eagle

The transaction has been unanimously approved by Kroger's Board of Directors.

Columbia Distributing Completes Acquisition Of Pac NW RNDC Markets

Columbia Distributing has completed its previously announced deal with Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) for certain wine and spirits distribution rights in Oregon and Washington. Financials weren’t disclosed.

The Sysco-ification of Wine

How wine culture's lazy "drink what you like" ethos has failed, and why it's time to break out the pitchforks.

Relighting a passion: wine and America on a milestone anniversary

As the US celebrates its 250th anniversary this weekend, where does wine fit into the national mood? Karen MacNeil assesses the outlook.

Great American Insurance Group and PAK Programs Introduce Difference in Conditions Property Insurance Solution for California Wineries

The coverage was developed to support agents navigating challenges in the California property insurance market.

Napa County Planning Commission Pauses Bremer Family Winery Expansion Review Amid Road Safety, Wastewater Questions and Concerns

Commissioners request more study on key concerns.

10 new California laws taking effect July 1, 2026

The new laws cover everything from streaming service advertisements to school bathrooms.

Champagne on course for earliest harvest start date ever

Following an early start to the growing season, then frost, now heatwave conditions, Champagne is set for its earliest harvest start date.

Weather and Climate Summary and Forecast

This report includes a summary of the weather and climate for the western US over the past month, provides a review of current conditions, and a forecast for the coming weeks, the month, and the season.

Economics of Winegrape Adaptation: Technology Adoption, Cultivar Selection, or Migration

The objective of this research was to develop a framework for evaluating the economic impacts of different strategies to manage risks associated with extreme heat in winegrape production.

Piano for Pinot, Sound Waves Might Help Vineyards Cost Cut

Regina Martinelli of the Martinelli Winery hopes music played from dawn to dusk will be the only thing the vines need to grow this year.

Why the World’s Most Iconic Wine Regions Are Revamping Their Classifications

It typically takes 10 to 15 years of research, experimentation, and aggressive bureaucratic maneuvering to make any major changes to the way wine is grown or classified across Europe. 

A Napa Valley Phoenix?

Cain Vineyard and Winery slowly finds renewed life under new owners and its longtime winemaker after a devastating 2020 fire.

Constellation's wine and spirits sales down nearly 50%

Constellation Brands’ first quarter results, although soft, provided some cheer and beat analysts’ forecasts. Beer is up, wine and spirits are considerably down and Tequila is well and truly stealing the show.

Why wine sales in fine dining restaurants are at a crossroads

If there is a reckoning to be had, this is probably a good time, before enthusiasm for wine sinks completely into oblivion.

Columbia Distributing Completes Oregon And Washington Transaction With RNDC, Expanding Total Beverage Portfolio

Columbia Distributing today announced it has completed its transaction with Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) for certain wine and spirits distribution rights in Oregon and Washington.

Patrick Cappiello is supporting Lodi farmers, making affordable California wines that buck the trends.

Patrick Cappiello of Monte Rio Cellars speaks about keeping his wines affordable in a difficult wine economy, and supporting American farmers along the way.

Wine Consultant Nick Karavidas Says Marketing Will Shape California Wine's Future

Wine consultant Nick Karavidas says California wineries must rethink marketing, embrace younger consumers, and plan for long-term success.

How States Treat Wine Fulfillment Warehouses: What Wineries Need to Know

No national standard governs how wineries can use fulfillment warehouses for DTC shipping. Here's what your winery needs to know to stay compliant.

Trinchero Aligns With Reyes In Six Markets

Trinchero Family Wine & Spirits has appointed Reyes Beverage Group as its distributor in six markets: Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Saint Wine and Cru Wines join forces

Australian fine wine distributors Saint Wine and Cru Wines have formed a new partnership to expand their national footprint, boost customer service and provide stronger representation for their producers.

WSWA’s Latest SipSource® Forecast Signals Continued Industry Headwinds, Modest Improvement Ahead

Data-driven outlook highlights stabilization in key categories in continued negative territory through 2027.

Latest figures show decline for French organic drinks

Though the organic sector overall is growing in France, statistics for 2025 show that alcoholic beverages are the only categories shrinking.

Constellation Brands Says Gas Prices, Uncertainty Weighing on Sales

The beverage company’s first-quarter net sales fell to $2.43 billion from $2.52 billion a year prior.

Grassroots campaign to support local wines is back in business later this week

Lenn Thompson, of The Cork Report, has picked this Friday to relaunch #openlocalwine as a way to help cultivate more interest in local producers.

‘We make a wine for that’: Australia to relaunch national campaign

Australia's wine industry is preparing to roll out a renewed national marketing campaign this August as part of efforts to encourage greater domestic consumption of Australian wine.

Napa wine branding and design firm celebrates 30 years

From early winery websites to award-winning packaging, see how Napa Valley women-owned DesignThis! has shaped Wine Country brands over three decades.

New York’s Newest Wine Destination Just Opened in Nolita

Two bottles of Champagne made for a royal wedding. A 1,700-selection wine list. A custom wood-fired grill. Oriana just opened in Nolita, and it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Award-winning sommelier launches wine bar on the Sonoma Coast

Winemaker and sommelier Patrick Cappiello of Monte Rio Cellars has just launched Siren’s Cellar, a new wine bar adjacent to Café Aquatica in Jenner.

Bollinger launches PNAYC21

Bollinger has launched the seventh version of its 100% Pinot Noir series, PNAYC21, the second such wine to come mostly from its home cru of Aÿ, after PNAYC18 - but there the similarities end, writes Giles Fallowfield. 

Charles Smith Launches REAL WINE COLLECTIVE

Iconic winemaker Charles Smith teams up with Evergreen Family Wines to create REAL WINE COLLECTIVE, a new powerhouse uniting House of Smith brands with world-class Washington vineyard infrastructure.

Old vineyards get an official seal

Breaking news! The Old Vine Registry is breaking records, barriers and new ground. And now, The Old Vine Registry seal.

Nizza DOCG consortium officially recognised by Italian government

The Consorzio del Nizza DOCG was officially recognised last week (22 June) by the Italian government’s ministry of agriculture, food sovereignty and forestry.

Patrick Cappiello is supporting Lodi farmers, making affordable California wines that buck the trends.

Patrick Cappiello of Monte Rio Cellars speaks about keeping his wines affordable in a difficult wine economy, and supporting American farmers along the way.

How States Treat Wine Fulfillment Warehouses: What Wineries Need to Know

No national standard governs how wineries can use fulfillment warehouses for DTC shipping. Here's what your winery needs to know to stay compliant.

Wine Consultant Nick Karavidas Says Marketing Will Shape California Wine's Future

Wine consultant Nick Karavidas says California wineries must rethink marketing, embrace younger consumers, and plan for long-term success.

Wine at the World Cup: How Brands Are Fighting for Visibility

FIFA may not have an official wine, but producers are finding increasingly creative ways to reach millions of fans and the tournament's wealthiest guests.

Napa Valley: A False Signal

The Visitors Are Here

Supreme Court ruling blocks thousands of lawsuits against the maker of Roundup weedkiller

The Supreme Court has sided with the maker of Roundup weedkiller, blocking thousands of lawsuits alleging it failed to warn users the product could cause cancer.

Industry Veteran Sandra LeDrew Retiring From Terlato As COO

Terlato Wine Group COO and president of winery operations Sandra LeDrew is retiring after nearly a decade at Terlato and 35 years in the wine and spirits industry.

The Wine Society CEO joins WSTA board

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has welcomed Steve Finlan, who is the CEO of member-owned and non-profit retailer The Wine Society, to its executive board.

Fair to Whom? On the Price of Pokémon Cards, Bordeaux En Primeur, and Other Things Worth Exactly What Someone Will Pay

The wine world loves moral language but the market doesn't care.

NIQ BevAl Market Report- Week Ending June 20

Wine declines hold steady as weekly sales show a stronger rebound

Ruled Out: How the Supreme Court and the USDA Quietly Rewrote Your Right to Know

The decision you heard about, and the one you didn’t.

Wine exporters face increased costs from July

From July 1 all New Zealand grape wine export applications will incur a cost.

The Importance of Public Relations Cannot Be Underscored

Public relations is a slow burn. I know this because I have been practicing it since before I knew what to call it.

Kaytlin Martino-Zavala Launches Margaux Marketing to Help Wineries Win the Battle for Consumer Attention

New agency specializing exclusively in wine industry marketing brings a decade of experience in luxury hospitality, wine, tourism, and Direct-to-Consumer growth.

Distinctive brand names pay off for wine producers, study finds

In a sea of thousands of Bordeaux wines, UChicago Law analysis offers rare evidence for what trademarks are really worth.

How California can ensure wine labeled 'American' uses exclusively American grapes

If wine is labeled as "American," that doesn't necessarily mean the grapes were grown in the U.S. A California bill seeks to change that.

Alexandra Cousteau on Wine, the Ocean, and Why Our Food Choices Matter

Gérard Bertrand’s La Grande Bleue pairs beautifully with seafood—and with a compelling argument that sustainable wine and conscious eating can help restore abundance to our oceans.

Smithsonian Journeys unveils food- and wine-focused trips

Smithsonian Journeys unveiled a slate of new food- and wine-focused walking itineraries for next year.

Americans are spending billions on wine trips, and 2026’s most surprising vineyards are nowhere near Napa

The picture most people carry of a wine trip is fixed: rolling rows in Napa or Sonoma, a cellar in Bordeaux, a Tuscan hillside at golden hour.

Wine at the World Cup: How Brands Are Fighting for Visibility

FIFA may not have an official wine, but producers are finding increasingly creative ways to reach millions of fans and the tournament's wealthiest guests.

Napa Valley: A False Signal

The visitors are here.

Top buyers on why now is the time for Virginia Wine in the UK

One of the standout and most popular features at this year’s London Wine Fair was the chance to meet, taste and discover a wide selection of wines and producers from the US state of Virginia.

Paris bans public alcohol consumption amid heatwave

Consumption of alcohol in public spaces has been banned in Paris as France continues to grapple with an intense heatwave.

Supreme Court ruling blocks thousands of lawsuits against the maker of Roundup weedkiller

The Supreme Court has sided with the maker of Roundup weedkiller, blocking thousands of lawsuits alleging it failed to warn users the product could cause cancer.

Five Tips to Improve Sales Performance and Client Retention, Courtesy of the Luxury Sector

What can a luxury maison teach the wine sector about keeping its customers? According to Charles de La Portbarré, the way the luxury sector uses data offers many lessons for wine — and none of them require a big budget.

The Prisoner launches 'most ambitious project' to date

The Prisoner Company, maker of the top-selling red blend in the US, has released a limited-edition wine at three times the price of its flagship expression, the elevated RRP reflecting a level of  "fearless creativity".

Importers say French wine category benefiting from drive to premiumisation

Speaking to Harpers , leading importers said that French wines have continued to perform strongly in the UK.

The uneven toll of California’s groundwater law

SGMA is California’s first ever attempt to regulate groundwater use to protect the state’s aquifers.

In Vineyard Demos, Bio Based Tech Wows at Central Coast's First Mindset Regenerative Conference

Bug spraying drones that provide uniform coverage, UV light robots that fend off mildew (and eliminate the need for sulfur) and a digital app for regenerative farming support wowed. 

Multi-million-dollar fund for SA farming help not used for a decade

A South Australian government fund of more than $28 million for loans and grants for farmers has not been used for the past 10 years, despite the industry struggling through drought and poor market conditions.

The £700 white burgundy was good. Better yet were the least expensive bottles

A blind tasting of top Chardonnays confirmed one of wine’s most cheering truths: price is no guarantee of pleasure.

Have We Forgotten Wine’s Place at the Table?

Wine has long been considered an essential part of eating well, but its place no longer seems to be with a meal.

Viva Wine Group receives takeover bid from shareholder consortium

Viva Wine Group has received a cash takeover offer from Riesling Ventures, a vehicle backed by the wine group’s three largest shareholders.

DAOU property in SLO purchased by local names. What’s in store for the facility?

As a global wine giant downsizes its holdings in San Luis Obispo County, two local winemakers combined forces and are taking advantage of its newly available property in Edna Valley.

English Wine Sales Boom

Emma Penman, English Wine Buyer at Waitrose, said that locality has become a major driving force for Waitrose shoppers.

TFWA notes the ‘surge in interest’ across wine and spirit categories

The Tax Free World Association (TFWA) has emphasised how the drinks sector plays an “important part” in its shows.

Visiting Hillick & Hobbs with winemaker Lynne Fahy – one of the most spectacular vineyards in the Finger Lakes region of New York State

Paul Hobbs is very well known in the wine world, and as well as consulting widely he opened his first winery in 1981 after studying at UC Davis.

Montefalco's Other Grape Takes the Spotlight

Chameleonic in it's ability to be both fresh and fruity and aged and oaked, Trebbiano Spoletino is making a splash.

Paris bans public alcohol consumption amid heatwave

Consumption of alcohol in public spaces has been banned in Paris as France continues to grapple with an intense heatwave.

Supreme Court ruling blocks thousands of lawsuits against the maker of Roundup weedkiller

The Supreme Court has sided with the maker of Roundup weedkiller, blocking thousands of lawsuits alleging it failed to warn users the product could cause cancer.

PNW Wine Competition brings region's wines to Walla Walla for 11th year

More than 150 wineries from across the region, including 54 from the Walla Walla Valley, entered in this year's competition.

Fledging co-packer Mercenary Premier buys TWE California facility

The fledgling drinks co-packer has acquired the Baileyana Winery facility located in San Luis Obispo County for an unknown sum.

Is the Wine Market's "Recovery" Actually a Death Rattle?

Prices are rising and buyers are returning. So why does the industry look more fragile than ever?

Scott Laboratories Becomes Exclusive Distributor of Sentia™ Wine Analyzer for North America

Scott Laboratories is proud to announce a new exclusive distribution partnership with Sentia Testing Pty, bringing the Sentia™ Wine Analyzer and complete line of Sentia™ test strips and buffers to winemakers throughout North America. The partnership is effective immediately and Sentia products are available now through Scott Laboratories.

Europe approves plant breeding advances through new genomic techniques

On June 17, the European Parliament gave final approval to Regulation 2023/0226, despite demonstrations by hundreds of farmers representing several European producer organisations.

Hemp Bill Pits Health Against Wealth

Finding the balance between business and health and safety is at the center of a new hemp bill.

Santa Barbara County wine grapes surge in value, helping agriculture production reach record $2.24 billion

Santa Barbara County's wine grape production value rose 24% in 2025 despite fewer harvested acres, according to the latest crop report.

TD Cowen: 'Sober View Suggests Structural Alcohol Risks Are Overblown'

We believe alcohol’s downturn over the past few years primarily reflects a cyclical reset driven by post-COVID normalization and macro pressure on consumers.

Is Your Visual Library Costing You Buyers?

Most wineries have a folder full of mismatched imagery and no way to measure it. This Visual Scorecard gives marketing leads 5 questions to stress-test their brand assets.

Five Tips to Improve Sales Performance and Client Retention, Courtesy of the Luxury Sector

What can a luxury maison teach the wine sector about keeping its customers? According to Charles de La Portbarré, the way the luxury sector uses data offers many lessons for wine — and none of them require a big budget.

Amid uncertainty, restaurants are expected to slow their summer hiring

The National Restaurant Association expects restaurants and bars to hire fewer workers this summer amid a stagnant market.

These Chicago restaurants have some of the best wine programs in the world

Eighty-two Chicago-area restaurants were winners in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards.

The Wonderful Co. Bets On Bigger Presence For Luxury Labels Justin Vineyards And Lewis Cellars

Known for brands like Fiji Water, Pom Wonderful, and Wonderful Pistachios, The Wonderful Co. has California wine interests including Paso Robles-based Justin Vineyards & Winery and Napa Valley’s Lewis Cellars.

Vinoshipper Launches a Native Subscription Product for Beverage Producers

Vinoshipper launched a native subscription product, giving wineries, cideries, meaderies, distilleries, and other craft beverage producers a simple way to run prepaid membership programs inside the same platform they already use to sell, ship, and stay compliant across more than forty states.

Dusty discovery sheds light on NY's first Black winery owner

"He's kind of been forgotten. He was a pioneer."

Sip Through 250 Years of American Wine History With These 25 Bottles

From Mission grapes to Napa icons, sip through 250 years of U.S. wine history with these 25 bottles that changed American wine forever.

Fledging co-packer Mercenary Premier buys TWE California facility

The fledgling drinks co-packer has acquired the Baileyana Winery facility located in San Luis Obispo County for an unknown sum.

Scott Laboratories Becomes Exclusive Distributor of Sentia™ Wine Analyzer for North America

Scott Laboratories is proud to announce a new exclusive distribution partnership with Sentia Testing Pty, bringing the Sentia™ Wine Analyzer and complete line of Sentia™ test strips and buffers to winemakers throughout North America. The partnership is effective immediately and Sentia products are available now through Scott Laboratories.

Is the Wine Market's "Recovery" Actually a Death Rattle?

Prices are rising and buyers are returning. So why does the industry look more fragile than ever?

FTC, Southern Glazer's near settlement in price discrimination case

Southern Glazer's and the Federal Trade Commission have moved closer to reaching a settlement on a legal spat around price discrimination.

Oregon Wine Board and Erath Family Foundation Announce Research Collaboration, Awarding Nearly $400,000 for Viticulture and Enology Research

Shared commitment expands investment in scientific research supporting Oregon vineyards and wineries.

Unions are rare in California wine. But the industry crisis has pushed these workers to organize

Outside Rodney Strong Vineyards in Healdsburg on Saturday, more than 150 production workers and labor advocates marched, chanted and danced with blue-and-white signs to the sound of a Sinaloan brass band.

New director for 50-year-old Wine Road

In what could be termed a generational change, a new executive director of Wine Road of Northern Sonoma County—better known by the short form, Wine Road—was named to take over the 50-year old organization this month.

Decanter Appoints Dana Nigro as North America Regional Editor

Decanter, the world's leading wine media brand, has appointed Dana Nigro as North America Regional Editor.

Drop the Riesling Reflex: Wine's $1.9 Trillion Blind Spot

"The data here reveal an immense room for market growth," said AWAA president Susan Lin, MW, who opened the session.

Sparkling Report

Like the wider wine industry, the sparkling wine category is navigating a period of profound change.

China transformed: growth opportunities in a reshaped market

China’s beverage alcohol market is in the midst of a structural reset as the decline of business-occasion drinking clears the way for a new consumer model: younger, more casual and more personal. For brands that understand this shift, meaningful growth opportunities still exist.

Broadway’s Most Famous Restaurant Is About to Change Forever

After nearly a century under private ownership, Sardi’s closes for renovations before beginning a new chapter.

Inside Lilo’s MICHELIN Award–Winning Wine Program with Wine Director Savannah Riedler

2026 MICHELIN Guide California Sommelier Award winner Savannah Riedler discusses building Lilo’s California-driven wine list, highlighting small producers across the state, and how today’s beverage programs extend beyond the wine list.

GWSS Interception in North Bay Highlights State Prevention Program

In Addition to Costco Incident, Officials Halted Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter-Infested Flower Shipment Bound for North Bay Counties

Study supports mating disruption for vineyard pest control

According to the Oregon Wine Board, Oregon’s wine and wine grape industries generated an estimated $8.49 billion in economic impact in 2024, while wine grapes had a crop value of $329.1 million, making vineyard pest management an important factor in protecting one of the state’s high-value agricultural sectors.

Extreme heat is melting national records across Europe, with more coming Thursday

Punishing temperatures are scorching Europe as it swelters under a fierce heat dome, bringing dangerous conditions to swaths of the fastest-warming continent.

'Oh man, it wouldn’t end': Mendocino County quake the largest in California in three years

A preliminary magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck Mendocino County on Wednesday rattling homes, knocking out power to thousands of customers and causing some injuries and minor damage in the region.

The Unlikely Rise of Alice and Olivier De Moor

The Courgis vignerons have spent decades challenging convention in one of Burgundy’s most traditional regions.

OENODIA Validates a High-precision Partial Dealcoholization Pilot at the Centre du Rosé: A Major Breakthrough for Precision Winemaking

This new decision-support tool can now be used with each of the brand’s partial dealcoholization units, tailored to meet specific client needs and expectations.

FTC, Southern Glazer's near settlement in price discrimination case

Southern Glazer's and the Federal Trade Commission have moved closer to reaching a settlement on a legal spat around price discrimination.

Unions are rare in California wine. But the industry crisis has pushed these workers to organize

Rodney Strong workers said they are pursuing union representation over concerns about compensation, the rising cost of living and recent layoffs amid the wine industry crisis and declining rates of U.S. alcohol consumption.

Oregon Wine Board and Erath Family Foundation Announce Research Collaboration, Awarding Nearly $400,000 for Viticulture and Enology Research

The organizations awarded nearly $400,000 to eight scientific research projects beginning July 1, 2026.

A Modest Improvement on the Wine Sales Front

The pace of decline in wine sales has moderated slightly after disappointing results in 2025.

Digital Insights & Opportunities for Wineries

We surveyed 5,580 winery websites to create insights on tools, e-commerce, storytelling, and more, plus actionable recommendations wineries can do today to set themselves ahead of the pack.

Garbage In, Garbage Out. How Can the Supreme Court Dissect the Truth?

Ohio's public health argument has one problem: the evidence doesn't exist.

Legislation to restrict 'American' label on blended wines pulled for the year

Legislation to restrict the use of the “American” label on blended wines from California that include imported bulk wine has been withdrawn for the year after a hearing in a state Senate committee.

Wine Institute Statement on AB 1585 and the Path Forward for California Wine

Wine Institute opposed the bill on the grounds that it would have produced unintended consequences for consumers and the broader industry without addressing the underlying demand crisis facing California wine.  

US distributor RNDC warns Illinois facilities face closure

RNDC has warned that its Illinois facilities could close after the company failed to secure financing to keep the operation running.

How wholesaler consolidation is redefining alcohol’s three-tier system in US

‘Consolidation is bad for small brands in the short term – most founders in our position know that, but won’t say it out loud.’

Ste. Michelle closes Northstar tasting room, production facility

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is closing its Northstar tasting room and production facility. The tasting room will close June 30.

Pernod sells Argentinian winery Bodega Etchart

Pernod Ricard has offloaded its Bodega Etchart winery in Argentina to local food-and-drinks group Molinos Río de la Plata.

Wine's Public Relations Issue Could Halve Consumption in the Next Decade

Younger consumers are currently caught in a cultural tug-of-war, and it’s directly affecting their spending on alcoholic beverages.

Red Hook Winery expands into cider and spirits

Red Hook Winery, the 18-year-old Brooklyn-based producer sourcing grapes solely from Long Island and upstate New York, is moving into a new phase of their New York State of mind production: Cider and spirits.

Is Pierce's Disease the New Phylloxera? (Podcast)

Failure to act SLOWLY could have significant economic consequences.

Colorado River experts say agriculture must make permanent cuts to water use

Water managers say drying up farmland is not the solution.

Interview: Looking to the future with the cellar master of one of Champagne’s oldest maisons

Champagne Lanson cellar Master Hervé Dantan discusses Champagne’s changing climate and the solutions already being put in place.

AWSEF Names 2026 Wine Research Scholarship Winners

Eight grad students tackling vine diseases, extreme weather, and quality challenges just received AWSEF scholarships. Meet the 2026 class advancing North American wine research.

Meet the Best Wine Restaurants in the World for 2026

Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards are here. More than 4,000 winners. Two new Grand Awards. A first-ever winner from Egypt. Find out who made the list!

A Modest Improvement on the Wine Sales Front

The pace of decline in wine sales has moderated slightly after disappointing results in 2025.

2026 Digital Winery Report: A Comprehensive Analysis of How Wineries Present Online

We surveyed 5,580 winery websites to create insights on tools, e-commerce, storytelling, and more, plus actionable recommendations wineries can do today to set themselves ahead of the pack.

Garbage In, Garbage Out. How Can the Supreme Court Dissect the Truth?

Ohio's public health argument has one problem: the evidence doesn't exist.

Marin Brennan Isn't Reinventing Long Island Wine—She's Refining It

From indigenous yeast fermentations to experimental small-batch bottlings, Marin Brennan is proving that innovation doesn't have to come at the expense of tradition.

Four Profit Warnings, a $625m Mandate, and Now a Departing GB MD. What Diageo’s Restructuring Actually Looks Like Two Months Before It Has to Explain Itself

For most of 2026, the Diageo restructuring has existed in the conditional tense. Last week the conditional tense ended.

Afterword: What Should I Do with My Winery?

A practical checklist for owners in Napa’s crowded luxury lane.

Market Update - Southern Hemisphere, June 2026

Good early interest levels in the 2026 vintage.

The Wine Industry’s Growing Divide Has Nothing To Do With The Market

Top wineries grew revenue 22% in 2025 while the bottom quarter fell 13%. New data reveals what separates the winners — and it isn't resources, region or reputation.

France bans alcohol at festivals as heatwave grips wine regions

French authorities have banned alcohol consumption at state-organised events and in public spaces across parts of the country as temperatures climb towards 42°C during a record heatwave.

Summer Solstice Report: After a wildly anomalous March, the weather has reverted to normal, but some oddities remain

After a March so much warmer than normal that all sorts of unprecedented possibilities were on the table, we've seen more normal conditions return since the beginning of April. But our early start is still likely to have consequences for the 2026 harvest.

Reservoir Expands Venture Platform with Acquisition of Contain, Accelerating Value for Rugged Physical AI AgTech Startups

Names Contain CEO, Nicola Kerslake, as a General Partner of Reservoir VC

Owner of Pa. winery for sale: 'We need to refocus our energy on our young family'

The producer, located north of Harrisburg, is on the market for the second time in less than a year.

OIV Invites Applications for its 2026 Research Grants Program

Application deadline is July 2026

Montenegro at the center of grapevine genomic research: Kratošija as the key to European viticulture

As part of the pilot study, 512 samples were analyzed, identifying as many as 51 grapevine varieties previously unknown to science.

With the Industry Under Pressure, Should Bartenders and Sommeliers Finally Join Forces?

Fighting like cats and dogs is one of the oldest sayings in the book.

This snarkiness among industry insiders has got to stop

Just because things aren’t going right, it doesn’t mean we have to point fingers

Wine Criticism Should Explain How Wine Works

Most wine writing tells us three things: whether the critic liked the wine, what the wine smells and tastes like, and how good it is presumed to be.

Virginia: The Commonwealth of Wine

Assessing Virginia’s place in wine amid market headwinds.

Mexican Wine Breaks All the Rules

Norm-challenging winemakers and a liberating lack of rules make for one hell of a wine scene south of the border.

Marin Brennan Isn't Reinventing Long Island Wine—She's Refining It

From indigenous yeast fermentations to experimental small-batch bottlings, Marin Brennan is proving that innovation doesn't have to come at the expense of tradition.

IWC Launches Regional Competitions Across Four Continents

IWC is abandoning its long-standing model of judging all wines in London, launching four regional competitions across the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe and the UK in the biggest overhaul of the competition since its founding in 1984.

Four Profit Warnings, a $625m Mandate, and Now a Departing GB MD. What Diageo’s Restructuring Actually Looks Like Two Months Before It Has to Explain Itself.

For most of 2026, the Diageo restructuring has existed in the conditional tense. Last week the conditional tense ended.

California wineries request US$32 million to fight vineyard pest

Senators have requested the immediate release of emergency funds from the US Department of Agriculture to "contain and eradicate" the glassy-winged sharpshooter before it decimates vineyards across California.

This Napa Valley winery wants you back so bad, it got rid of its tasting fee

St. Helena's historic V. Sattui Winery recently eliminated fees 3 days a week.

Auction of Charles Shaw’s former Napa Valley vineyard estate finally moves forward

After years of stalled sales, bidding is live for the historic Benessere Vineyards estate near St. Helena, the former home of Charles Shaw’s wine brand that became known as “Two Buck Chuck.”

Local wine investing startup Vint winding down operations

The company, which was founded by two UVA grads and allows investors to buy shares of collections of wine and other spirits, announced last week that it would be shutting down and selling all of its remaining assets, according to an email obtained by BizSense. 

Afterword: What Should I Do with My Winery?

A practical checklist for owners in Napa’s crowded luxury lane.

French Wine Crisis "Only the Start"

A French winemaker believes the industry's troubles are only beginning, with tougher times to come.

Poor Fruit Set, Fewer Sellers Kindles Competition for 2026 Harvest

Vineyard removals, mothballing and unharvested grapes: the U.S. grape market has endured historic challenges in the last few years.

Italy launches new 'crisis fund' for winemakers in Trentino

The Italian Agriculture Ministry has approved a new crisis fund which will compensate winegrowers in Trentinowho suffer a "significant" drop in income due to price volatility or unfavourable economic conditions, it said.

Emergency officials are gearing up for a long fire season, and so should you

Now is the time to sign up for emergency alerts, prepare go-bags and refresh evacuation plans. Here are some pointers and resources.

Heat waves increase wildfire risk – a new study explains how much, and it’s not a small number

When heat waves hit the Western United States, the risk of wildfires quickly rises. The prolonged heat dries out vegetation, but that’s only part of the cause – heat waves also play other roles in spreading wildfires.

Wine investment: Fine wine market stabilising

Collectors and drinkers have dived in for opportunities in 2026 so far, from mature rarities to keenly priced cases, but the wine market is by no means firing on all cylinders.

What Happened In Fine Wine This Week: Burgundy and Bordeaux go head-to-head supported by strong demand for First Growths

UK buyers almost doubled their purchasing, efforts focused largely on high value Burgundy.

Sancerre Faces Flinty Future

Climate change may force Sancerre into change if the region wants to thrive.

Georgia: The Birthplace of Wine Looks to the Future

It’s known as the Cradle of Wine, yet many Americans think of a U.S. state when they hear its name.

Three-Cornered Alfalfa Hopper: Monitoring, Models, and Management

Three-cornered alfalfa hopper (TCAH) is the only confirmed insect vector of grapevine red blotch virus in Vitis vinifera, yet many growers first realize they have the pest only after spotting petiole girdling in the vineyard.

Alison Rodriguez - Silverado Vineyards

Recorded high above the valley floor in Silverado’s Stags Leap estate, this episode with winemaker Alison Rodriguez dives into both Napa viticulture and her global winemaking journey.

California wineries request US$32 million to fight vineyard pest

Senators have requested the immediate release of emergency funds from the US Department of Agriculture to "contain and eradicate" the glassy-winged sharpshooter before it decimates vineyards across California.

Is this the beginning of the end of Napa Valley winery tasting fees?

St. Helena's historic V. Sattui Winery recently eliminated fees 3 days a week.

Auction of Charles Shaw’s former Napa Valley vineyard estate finally moves forward

After years of stalled sales, bidding is live for the historic Benessere Vineyards estate near St. Helena, the former home of Charles Shaw’s wine brand that became known as “Two Buck Chuck.”

Sonoma County Winegrowers and Sonoma County Vintners explore merger

Sonoma County Winegrowers and Sonoma County Vintners are exploring a merger as the wine industry continues to confront declining alcohol consumption, tasting room traffic, wine sales, tourism and a sluggish grape market.

Support for SB 895 and UC Davis Research

I’m writing to ask for your support for SB 895, a critical piece of legislation under consideration by the California Legislature.

“Vine growers are doomed” if negociants cut purchases by 20%, like Rémy Martin

With sales still struggling and inventories continuing to weigh on Cognac houses, Rémy Martin (Rémy Cointreau group) has announced a further reduction in purchases from the 750 growers supplying it through Alliance Fine Champagne.

The Opposition Just Made Our Case for American Wine

Now help us finish it.

Winesellers Ltd Targets Pockets Of Strength In The Import Segment

While imported wine in the U.S. has faced volume pressure along with other segments of the drinks market, key players are focusing on the category’s most vibrant areas to maximize gains.

Azur Associates: Wine Market & M&A Review

This focused webinar examines the forces reshaping the wine industry—from the ongoing demand reset and shifting consumer expectations to structural changes impacting route-to-market and transaction activity.

Mixed weather brings soft start to June for drinks sales 

Sunny weather, a Bank Holiday weekend and big football matches all helped to lift the On-Premise to modest growth in drinks sales

Burgundy Winery Transition: Domaine Clos de la Chapelle Passes the Torch

A promising Burgundy domaine changes hands, hoping for continued excellence under new leadership from Domaine Guilbert-Gillet.

Owner of DAOU Vineyards is downsizing. What does it mean for the SLO County winery?

The owner of famed San Luis Obispo County winery DAOU Vineyards announced widespread downsizing this month, but good news for fans, DAOU isn’t going anywhere.

Wine importers in Edwards try to get their tariff money back

It might feel like things have gone quiet on the tariff front since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled many of the Trump administration’s tariffs illegal in February.  But Colorado’s small businesses are still trying to make sense of the administration’s trade policies and, in some instances, get their money back.

Napa County can collect $3.9 million in Hoopes winery fines, appeals court says

The Hoopes Vineyard winery once again faces having to soon pay $3.9 million in fines and legal fees to Napa County after losing a court battle, though it is appealing the case.

Dry lightning enters Northern California forecast, prompting fire weather warnings

Counterclockwise-swirling winds off the California coast are expected to extend high into the atmosphere in the coming days, spurring a regionwide cooldown while simultaneously raising fire danger in the mountains as dry lightning enters the forecast.

Frost and hail threaten 2026 US and French wine harvests

Severe frost and hail have already caused extensive vineyard damage across parts of the United States and France, raising concerns over another difficult harvest year. Growers are reporting losses of up to 90% in some regions, with months of weather risks still ahead.

Revino Receives $4.8M Grant To Build First California Bottle Reuse Facility, Begins Deploying Washed Bottles for Reuse

CalRecycle has awarded Revino a $4,867,070 grant to establish a first-of-its-kind certified Bottle Washer Processing facility in Lompoc, California, that will build the infrastructure for a reusable glass-bottle ecosystem.

The ethical drinker: Join the resistance and give hybrid grapes a chance

Do you know your Souvignier Gris from your Cabernet Cortis? Sustainability editor Natalie Earl explores the rise and symbolism of disease-resistant hybrid grapes via an innovative micro-négociant project in southern France's Languedoc.

Sonoma County Winegrowers and Sonoma County Vintners explore merger

Sonoma County Winegrowers and Sonoma County Vintners are exploring a merger as the wine industry continues to confront declining alcohol consumption, tasting room traffic, wine sales, tourism and a sluggish grape market.

“Vine growers are doomed” if negociants cut purchases by 20%, like Rémy Martin

With sales still struggling and inventories continuing to weigh on Cognac houses, Rémy Martin (Rémy Cointreau group) has announced a further reduction in purchases from the 750 growers supplying it through Alliance Fine Champagne.

Support for SB 895 and UC Davis Research

I’m writing to ask for your support for SB 895, a critical piece of legislation under consideration by the California Legislature. If placed on the November ballot and approved by voters, it would directly benefit research efforts at UC Davis, strengthening our impact across the region and state.

Eileen Crane: Sparkling Wine Pioneer's Lasting Legacy

Told by one professor that women could not be winemakers, she built Gloria Ferrer and Domaine Carneros and established California sparkling wine.

Bronco buys US wine group Resurrection Brands

US business Bronco Wine Co. has acquired the wine sales and marketing business Resurrection Brands.

An Economist View of Bordeaux 2025

This article by renowned economist Philippe Masset examines the reasons for buying - or not - En Primeur 2025

The Invisible Power of Associations

When times get tough—and even when they’re not—trade associations are often the last bills to be paid—or not paid— even though they’re as vital to wineries’ success as many expenses ahead of them.

California Winegrape Growers Press Federal Agenda Across Capitol Hill, Agencies, and the White House

The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) led a delegation of growers to Washington, D.C., June 1-3 to advance a federal policy agenda aimed at restoring competitiveness, strengthening risk management tools, and supporting the long-term viability of California vineyards. 

Red blotch grapevine disease confounds Napa grapegrowers

Red blotch often lies dormant for years with few visible symptoms, meaning that growers who are working to battle the disease still end up "chasing their tails."

Building up sustainable wineries: from wine kegs to solar power

Treasury Wine Estates is advancing sustainability through initiatives such as reducing glass bottle weight, introducing wine kegs, and investing in solar energy.

Stop Sitting on Bulk Wine & Excess Inventory

Missing this buying cycle could mean waiting another year.

Farmers still upbeat, but costs remain a worry

Rabobank's quarterly survey found strong faith in the agricultural economy, even as global uncertainty weighs on sentiment.

Bleak scenes as footage shows huge Aussie industry in crisis

Devastating footage has exposed how one of our most famous industries is in a state of peril amid collapsing global demand.

Alcohol cancer labels: public health measure or scare tactic?

In the second of our series on the implications of the WHO’s ‘no safe level’ agenda, Tom Bruce-Gardyne explores the battle to impose cancer warnings on drinks, and ponders the motives, whether it is really to inform consumers or simply to scare them into drinking less.

Groundwater Sustainability Updates and NVG's Ongoing Advocacy

​Water has always been at the heart of sustainable farming in the Napa Valley.

Non-Alc Wine's Growth Spawns A Host Of New Competitors

Non-alcohol wines have been growing strongly from a small base, rising an estimated 12.5% to 1.8 million cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.

GLP-1 pill approval to spur change in UK grocery

The arrival of GLP‑1 weight‑loss drugs in pill form in the UK looks set to increase uptake, which should focus minds across food manufacturers.

Rediscovering Wine's Magic Triangle

Grapes and terroirs don't respect borders, as proved by a super-region of Europe that doesn't even have a name.

Why this classic California winery is making a new kind of wine for first time in over 50 years

For 54 years, Silver Oak Cellars, one of California’s most recognized wineries, made just one type of wine: Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Eileen Crane: Sparkling Wine Pioneer's Lasting Legacy

Told by one professor that women could not be winemakers, she built Gloria Ferrer and Domaine Carneros and established California sparkling wine.

Bronco buys US wine group Resurrection Brands

US business Bronco Wine Co. has acquired the wine sales and marketing business Resurrection Brands.

Wine Is Swinging for the Fences With Sports Advertising — Is It Working?

These days, when you watch sports, you’re inundated with ads. Every other commercial is for a betting app; stats and even plays are sponsored; and each break in action is filled by an announcer ad-read.

How Social Media Propelled the ‘Cult’ Wine World Into Absurdity

The “cult wine” of yore still prevails. Priced in quadruple digits (or higher), released in scarce quantities, and scooped up by collectors who identify as Sotheby’s regulars, these bottles are often elusive and unattainable to all but a select few.

CAWG Foundation Awards Scholarships to Children of Vineyard Employees

CAWG Foundation awarded $39,000 in scholarships to children of California vineyard employees pursuing higher education.

Global wine tourism to hit US$138.4bn by 2033

Wine tourism is projected to hit US$138.4 billion (£103.15 billion) by 2033, becoming a major driver of global tourism as travellers increasingly shun standard sightseeing for immersive, authentic experiences such as wine tastings, harvest experiences and bike tours.

Sicilia DOC to capitalise on 'The White Lotus effect'

Sicilia DOC has launched its latest UK marketing campaign with the intention of capitalising on the “surge of interest” that television drama The White Lotus has brought to the island.

Gérard Bertrand Launches “French Flair,” Targeting Millennials, Gen X

Languedoc winemaker Gérard Bertrand’s namesake label has volume of over 500,000 cases in the U.S., with rosé accounting for the lion’s share of the total.

Wine Tariffs Threat the Real Deal

The US president has a habit of imposing tariffs on a whim, but this time he has the law on his side.

Trump Threatens Not to Renew USMCA Trade Deal

With the renewal deadline nearing, President Trump casts uncertainty on the Trump USMCA trade agreement between the three nations.

ASI Vote on the return of Russian sommeliers raises questions

In late May, the ASI General Assembly was held in Taipei, Taiwan. Among the organizational issues discussed by the presidents of the national associations belonging to ASI, a motion to reinstate Russian sommeliers was unexpectedly put to a vote.

Wine industry adjusts to declining production, softer demand

Washington’s 2025 wine harvest was, by official accounts, one of the most favorable in recent memory.

An Economist View of Bordeaux 2025

This article by renowned economist Philippe Masset examines the reasons for buying - or not - En Primeur 2025.

How the drinks industry risks being left behind in an AI world

The drinks industry, for all its charm and tradition, is at risk of being left behind in a business world that is increasingly being dominated by AI and what impact it is having on how companies operate, the decisions they make and the products they sell.

AI Use in Agriculture Is Broad, As Is Skepticism

Uncover the benefits and challenges of implementing AI in agriculture as farmers adapt to new technological advancements.

'Subdued' en primeur campaign despite the 'uniqueness' of the vintage

High stakes ahead of this year's En Primeur campaign have made it a nerve-wracking month for the trade, and though some merchants are reporting “a sizeable amount of wine” sold, the reaction overall has been “somewhat subdued and cautious”, In view of the quality of the vintage, this is both frustrating and worrying. Arabella Mileham reports. 

Gen Z Is Reshaping Fine Wine, Not Rejecting It

Younger generations are drinking less—but spending smarter. Discover why the 'drink less, drink better' trend could be fine wine's biggest opportunity yet.

Are Washington wines ‘volcanic’? Yes, no, and maybe.

Many assume Washington wines are volcanic, given the state’s towering strata volcanoes. The reality, however, is considerably more nuanced.

Tasting ten years on: South Africa's 2016 'New Wave' wines

Victoria Mason MW reflects on South Africa's 2016 New Wave wines and presents some of her top bottles from the tasting.

How Social Media Propelled the ‘Cult’ Wine World Into Absurdity

The “cult wine” of yore still prevails.

Global wine tourism to hit US$138.4bn by 2033

Wine tourism is projected to hit US$138.4 billion (£103.15 billion) by 2033, becoming a major driver of global tourism as travellers increasingly shun standard sightseeing for immersive, authentic experiences such as wine tastings, harvest experiences and bike tours.

CAWG Foundation Awards Scholarships to Children of Vineyard Employees

CAWG Foundation awarded $39,000 in scholarships to children of California vineyard employees pursuing higher education.

Trump says France must scrap tech 'sales tax' or face 100% wine tariffs

President Donald Trump has said he will hit France’s wine industry with a 100% tariff on exports to the U.S. if it does not scrap its digital services tax on U.S. technology companies.

US distributor RNDC to sell Arkansas operations

Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) has lined up another divestment in the US, striking a deal to offload its Arkansas operations.

This Famed Sonoma Vineyard Is Finally Making Wine of Its Own

Long been the source of grapes for other wineries, Monte Rosso is producing its own estate wines and collectors are snapping them up.

Napa Valley’s Vineyard 29 sells Aida Vineyard parcels in St. Helena

Vineyard 29 sold its 17.82-acre Aida Vineyard in St. Helena to two longtime friends and wine industry partners as part of a succession plan.

Wine firm Andrew Peller sold to property and insurance group

The family ownership of Canadian wine producer Andrew Peller is coming to an end through a sale to property and insurance group Fairfax Financial.

EU lawmakers approve US trade deal to avert tariff conflict

Tuesday's vote follows a framework deal in July 2025.

Shipping Firms, Awaiting Details, Are Cautious of U.S.-Iran Deal

Shipowners welcomed the agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but said they would need more security guarantees before resuming transits.

How InnoVint Is Using AI to Transform Winery Ops

InnoVint is weaving AI into its winery operating system—automating everything from lab analysis imports to complex work orders. Here's what that means for producers.

Verallia deploys Gojob’s AI solution to transform its recruitment processes worldwide

Verallia, Europe’s leading and the world’s third-largest producer of glass packaging, has chosen Gojob, a French pioneer in AI-powered recruitment, to improve the efficiency of its hiring processes while strengthening its employer brand internationally.

The Struggle Facing English Wine

The United Kingdom makes some excellent wines, so why is it so hard to get cut-through with consumers? r

Growing appetite for US fine wine shows greater buyer confidence in its credentials

US wines have consolidated their place on the international fine wine market, a report from Liv-ex has said, showing a “clear tilt towards higher-value bottles”.

Digital influence rises, but consumers still trust people over AI, study finds

Digital channels are becoming important in drinks discovery, but consumers continue to place greater trust in human recommendation.

Forbes Wine Names Henna Bakshi Senior Editor

The new wine vertical also announces Eliza Dumais as Senior Writer as it builds toward a summer 2026 content launch.

Here Are the 2026 James Beard Awards Media Award Winners

The Media Awards recognize cookbooks, other nonfiction books, radio, podcasts, documentaries, and more

Robert Mondavi Winery: A Stunning Architectural Revival

Inside the breathtaking renovation that transforms a Napa Valley landmark into a 21st-century wine destination.

Christie’s to open posh wine store in Rockefeller Center — and it got help from NY lawmakers to make it happen

The legislation enabled Christie’s to sidestep the same obscure rule enforced by the New York State Liquor Authority that cost Eataly’s wine shop in Chelsea a $500,000 fine in 2014.

Trump says France must scrap tech 'sales tax' or face 100% wine tariffs

President Donald Trump issued the threat ahead of this week's G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France.

US distributor RNDC to sell Arkansas operations

Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) has lined up another divestment in the US, striking a deal to offload its Arkansas operations.

Market Happenings: Slight Progress, but Risks Remain

The pace of decline in three-tier wine sales slowed in the first quarter, but it’s too early to call it a turnaround.

Ciatti California Report - June 2026

Potential early harvest: How is the market responding?

This Wine Was the Toast of the World. Now Even the Locals Don’t Drink It.

In restaurants and wine bars in Bordeaux, plenty of other wines are open, but few bottles of the local product. Why?

$4 million judgment against Napa winery moves forward after temporary stay dissolved

Winery owner Lindsay Hoopes has exhausted her appeals to stay the 2024 judgment, but a case arguing the fines and fees are unconstitutional is pending.

Napa Investors Bucking the Trend

Amid historic headwinds and declining sales, why are some wineries investing in Napa?

Texas Retail Giant Spec's Expands To Nevada With Lee's Acquisition

Texas retail juggernaut Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods—with 220 stores in the Lone Star State and more than $2 billion in annual revenue—is making its first out-of-state foray, agreeing to acquire Nevada chain Lee’s Discount Liquor.

Macron maintains France will not bend to Trump over digital tax

President Emmanuel Macron said France would not bow to pressure from President Donald Trump and scrap its digital ​tax on U.S. tech giants, hours before the two meet at a summit on Monday.

Trump claims ships carrying oil are moving out of strait of Hormuz after US and Iran agree deal

Initial deal expected to be signed on Friday but Israel has ruled out withdrawing from Lebanon.

This Famed Sonoma Vineyard Is Finally Making Wine of Its Own

Long been the source of grapes for other wineries, Monte Rosso is producing its own estate wines and collectors are snapping them up.

Sigrid’s Vintage: We Reunited a Napa Winemaker With a Cherished Bottle 

We have been working for more than two years to find the ending to this story.

More French Laundry workers allege unpaid labor behind the scenes

Thomas Keller Restaurant Group denied the claims and said it plans to “vigorously defend” itself.

Challenge to wine retailer shipping ruling targets SCOTUS conservative wing

The State of Ohio filed a cert petition to the U.S. Supreme Court (“SCOTUS”) requesting that they grant cert on this case and decide what is now a circuit split.

Tequila, RTDs, Lighter Wines Expected To Drive Summer Retail Trends

Key retail operators see the summer’s early trends taking shape, with consumers favoring RTDs in various formats and strengths, crisp white wines and rosés, and premium Tequila labels.

How GLP-1 Reshapes Users’ Relationship to Casual Dining

GLP-1 users are an increasingly central consumer for casual dining restaurants, and their distinct preferences are poised to reshape the category.

Bag wines, low alc wines, no alc wines. It’s all happening!

In recent years Pacific Northwest winemakers have been experimenting with wine in bags, lower alcohol wines, and no alcohol wines.

Alsace wine industry focuses on carbon footprint and climate change mitigation

Established in July 2024, the Alsace Vinipôle has made carbon strategy and climate change mitigation its first major priorities.

Sustainability in Drinks announces keynote speaker for 2026 edition

Andy Cato, co-founder of regenerative farming company Wildfarmed, will give the keynote address at this year's Sustainability in Drinks.

Ciatti California Report - Potential early harvest: How is the market responding?

Many growers are starting to consider calling a halt to farming their uncontracted vineyards, if they have not done so already, which could curb desirable grape availability for those buyers planning a late-season purchase.

$4 million judgment against Napa winery moves forward after temporary stay dissolved

Winery owner Lindsay Hoopes has exhausted her appeals to stay the 2024 judgment, but a case arguing the fines and fees are unconstitutional is pending.

This Wine Was the Toast of the World. Now Even the Locals Don’t Drink It.

In restaurants and wine bars in Bordeaux, plenty of other wines are open, but few bottles of the local product. Why?

Study Shows How Santa Barbara Wineries Are Staying Competitive in a Changing California Wine Market - edhat

Santa Barbara wineries sit between Napa's luxury model and Sonoma's broader production base, according to a new wine report.

Austria cracks the Gen Z code

How does the wine world draw in younger consumers? Maybe Austria’s dynamic winemaking scene has some of the answers, writes Gabriel Stone.

Fees and Visitors Fall in Wine Country

California's wineries are dropping their prices, but that's not bringing back the visitors, a new report finds.

As California’s Wine Industry Struggles, Some Lodi Grape Growers Pivot to New Crops

In a Central Valley town known as “the Winegrape capital of the world,” some farmers are experimenting with new growth in the face of change.

Champagne growers and houses rethink old partnerships

Climate change and shifting consumer preferences are prompting some Champagne producers to deepen ties with their grape growers.

Virgin Wines Shares Hit 16-Month Low on Earnings Forecast Miss

Virgin Wines UK shares hit a 16-month low after the online wine retailer said it expects to miss full-year market forecasts due to a worsening consumer environment and higher costs related to the Middle East war.

New Fed chief may soon be forced to defy Trump and raise interest rates

Kevin Warsh will hold his first policy meeting next week with inflation at a three-year high and a president who expects lower borrowing costs.

House Wine bankruptcy reflects rising costs facing Austin businesses, lingering pandemic impacts

The South First Street wine bar filed Chapter 11 to keep operating while reorganizing its debt.

UK Retailer Co-Op Names Liam D'Arcy As Wine Ambassador

UK retailer Co-op has appointed content creator Liam D’Arcy, known as The Wine Wally, as its first official wine ambassador.

Gretchen Roddick of Hope Family Wines Elected Wine Institute 2026-2027 Board Chair

The Advocacy Group for the California Wine Industry

Wine giant signs new agreement to continue using mine water heat - business hailed a “real pioneer”

Lanchester Wines has signed a new access agreement with The Mining Remediation Authority, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of the technology. 

Château de Chambord installs protective netting over vines against hail and heat

Anti-hail netting remains a rare sight in the Loire Valley, making its appearance in the heart of the iconic heritage estate of Chambord all the more.

Why Is NA Wine So Far Behind NA Beer?

At approximately 11 p.m. on Dec. 13, 2025, I thought I’d lost it all. I found myself at the Williamsburg location of Barcade—a combination bar and vintage arcade—for my J-school’s end-of-semester party. …

Future of Alcohol-Removed Innovation with Sparkling Wine

In this webinar, Rack & Riddle and SOLOS will explore the consumer trends driving category growth, the science behind alcohol removal, and why sparkling wine naturally performs better in alcohol-removed applications.

Researchers Inch Closer to Rapid Smoke-Impact Detection Tool, Seek Grape Sensory Thresholds

Rumbaugh's team is also advancing research to establish sensory thresholds from smoke-marker compounds in grapes.

Ancient DNA from Tuscan wells reveals origins of modern wine

Scientists analyzing 2,000-year-old grape seeds from ancient wells in Tuscany have mapped the most extensive genetic history of ancient grapevines recovered from a single site.