Napa's first cannabis-infused rosé maker files for bankruptcy

House of Saka was one of the first beveragemakers to turn Napa Valley wines into cannabis products.

Severe flooding hits parts of Western Cape wine region

Vineyards lying alongside the Breede River in South Africa’s Western Cape have been devastated by severe flooding after the river burst its banks.

Wineries urged to prioritize outreach as sales data still show weakness

Latest research shows how wineries are facing softening sales, falling club memberships and rising bottle costs, an expert reveals at a Sonoma County industry conference Wednesday.

Mildew Vs. Hybrid Grapes: Who is Winning?

A Rebuttal to “Mildew Is Winning. And No One Has a Real Solution” on Winethologist

Karen MacNeil to Keynote Vine to Mind 2026

Karen MacNeil joins Christine Wente and Michael Mondavi at the UC Davis/Harvard Vine to Mind Symposium to discuss the future of California wine culture.

Ohio Wine Shipping Ban Struck Down by Federal Court

Major legal victory for wine retailers could reshape interstate alcohol sales regulations across the United States.

Gratsi Blazes A Path In Upscale Boxed Wine

While premium boxed wines retailing at around $20 a 3-liter have become ubiquitous in the U.S. market, some industry players believe there’s room for even higher-priced boxed offerings to carve out a significant niche.

Shipping Materials Evolve with Some Sustainability Innovations

Vendors anticipate the next wave of innovation will focus on using alternative or reduced materials without sacrificing protective performance.

Why RTDs are getting stronger

Higher alcohol ready-to-drink beverages are gaining traction, despite opposing trends for no and low alcohol also running in tandem.

What Wine Trends Really Tell Us About the Market

From White Zinfandel's '80s explosion to today's funky naturals, consumers always signal where they want to go. Are you paying attention to the right trends?

Take Five

Commercially, the wine world’s problems continue.

How vines and their microbiota help each other cope with climate change

Laboratories at the University of Reims-Champagne-Ardenne, the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the University of Athens have launched a new research programme called Adaptors.

Wine GB launches regenerative viticulture guide in wider sustainability push

The creation of its regenerative viticulture guide comes in response to a growing interest among its members regarding the farming practice.

All you need to know about the new Bordeaux Claret classification

Bordeaux’s decision to officially bring back the Claret classification - so often associated with the traditional UK wine merchant and archetypal Bordeaux drinker - but now revamped and repositioned to appeal to younger drinkers looking for lighter style, fresher, red wines, has certainly split opinion.

Georgia’s new vineyard rules draw accusations of ‘Soviet-style thinking’ from small producers

While the government insists the regulations will safeguard Georgian wine’s reputation abroad, critics argue they could wipe out smaller producers.

Class Is in Session: The Hue Society Reimagines Wine Education with the 2026 Wine & Culture Fest “Summer School”

The 8th Annual Festival takes place at Philadelphia’s Historic Bok Building May 13, 2026 (Philadelphia, PA)

Walla Walla Community College announces one-year wine sales, management certificate

The program, designed for both beginners and industry professionals, begins in the fall.

A Fish Fry Among the Vines? This Upcoming Event Brings Community and Cookout Culture to Wine Country

What started out as a one-day party has grown to a three-day celebration of wine, food and good times, held at three local wineries in June.

Laetitia Vineyards & Winery Introduces the Sparkjoy Wine Series, Created to Spark Joy and Happiness in the Community

New wine series benefits Woods Humane Society as winery invites the community to celebrate with food, music, and four-legged friends over the Memorial Day weekend.

Mildew Vs. Hybrid Grapes: Who is Winning?

A Rebuttal to “Mildew Is Winning. And No One Has a Real Solution” on Winethologist

Ohio Wine Shipping Ban Struck Down by Federal Court

Major legal victory for wine retailers could reshape interstate alcohol sales regulations across the United States.

Wine consumption fell again in 2025, OIV says

Global wine consumption declined again in 2025, with nine of the world’s ten largest markets seeing demand fall.

State of the world wine sector in 2025: Tariffs, climate and consumer trends drive sector adaptation

The latest figures show a global wine sector that is reacting to the real-time impacts of trade policies while also adapting to longer term changes in terms of climate and consumption. 

US ban an 'act of consumer resistance' by Canadians

Canadian wine producers are in no rush for US-made alcohol to return to Canada's shelves, describing the "tremendous" impact the ban is having on domestic sales.

The Wonderful Company and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Expand Wine Distribution Agreement 

Agreement expands distribution of JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and Lewis Cellars nationwide.

Vines already flowering in French vineyards - April in flower, July in full harvest power?

In what may prove to be another symbolic marker of climate change, the first vine flowers appeared in French vineyards before the start of May.

Ciatti California Report - May 2026

Vineyards advanced; grape and bulk markets stalled.

Is US Three-Tier System Already Dead?

Whisper it, but the US system of separating the distribution of wine and spirits might be on the way out.

DTC Wineries Share Strategies to Combat Rising Shipping Costs

Shipping costs have gotten out of hand, and perhaps no one knows this better than a wine club manager or marketer.

The U.S. will never have a ‘European wine culture’

If the industry makes that the target, it is sure to miss.

Welcome to the Machine

Wine spent 20 years optimizing administration. AI may force it back toward humanity.

The Commons We Forgot We Shared

Brand equity is the rarest of collective assets—and one of the easiest to spend without noticing.

As El Niño approaches, scientists predict fierce heatwaves, wildfires and floods

Emerging Pacific Ocean heat, combined with ongoing human-caused global warming, is a grim recipe for deadly climate extremes.

Paso Robles Area Groundwater Authority Releases Draft Rate and Fee Study

20-day public review and appeals process begins, landowners are encouraged to review groundwater.

New Md. winery a 'lifelong dream' for California native already immersed in the business

Melissa Schulte, the longtime general manager at Black Ankle Vineyards, and her husband are getting closer to the first release of Esmé Vineyards wines.

Top Piedmont Producer Opens New Restaurant Overlooking Famed Barolo Vineyard

The restaurant-wine bar hybrid offers regional cuisine and an extensive selection of local wines, including many from its host vineyard.

Karen MacNeil to Keynote 2026 UC Davis / Harvard “Vine to Mind” Symposium, Joined by Christine Wente and Michael Mondavi

Co-founder of COME TOGETHER A Community for Wine to anchor a conversation among three of America’s leading voices in wine culture Karen MacNeil May 13.

MINDSET Symposium Delivers Practical DPR Continuing Education Credit and a Celebratory Regenerative Wine Tasting

The first regenerative symposium for the wine industry delivers on leadership, community-building, and wine enjoyment.

State of the world wine sector in 2025: Tariffs, climate and consumer trends drive sector adaptation

The latest figures show a global wine sector that is reacting to the real-time impacts of trade policies while also adapting to longer term changes in terms of climate and consumption. 

Wine's leftovers could help wean chicken farms off antibiotics

Every year, millions of gallons of wine are pressed, leaving behind a mountain of pulpy residue—grape skins, seeds, stems and peels—that wineries struggle to dispose of. Now, researchers say this overlooked byproduct could find a new life on the farm, as a replacement for the antibiotics routinely added to chicken feed.

Spotted Lanternfly Egg Hatch Raises Concern for New York Vineyards

Cornell experts advise vineyard growers on spotted lanternfly hatch timing, nymph identification and control options.

2026 BMO Wine Market Report Finds Global Trade Strained

While refunds are expected from tariffs enacted by the U.S. government, the impact on trade in North America and the rest of the world was immediate and will have repercussions that will be felt for decades.

California Wine Lawsuit Update: The State Moves to Dismiss

The case asks a focused question: when California allows in-state wineries to sell wine directly to California retailers, can it constitutionally deny that same option to wineries from other states?

Can a Pleading Social Media Post Save a Struggling Bar?

By the looks of it, you’d never guess the building’s landlord is trying to evict the beloved Times Square haunt three years before its lease is up.

$115 Billion U.S. Wine Market Enters ‘Reset’ Amid Shifting Consumer Trends

A new BMO report shows the U.S. wine market is undergoing a reset, though 71% of wineries surveyed expect a rebound. Interviews with the report’s authors explain the causes and when stabilization may begin.

Too Many Wineries, Not Enough Consumers

Banks are telling US wineries that some of them need to get out of the pool, a new report reveals.

RNDC's wine partner in Idaho ponies up to go it alone

Memo from Hayden Beverage Co. CEO details exit of 18-year joint-venture.

Duckhorn Unveils New U.S. Distributor Alignment - Shanken News Daily

The Duckhorn Portfolio this morning announced a sweeping overhaul of its U.S. distribution network.

The Wonderful Company and Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Expand Wine Distribution Agreement 

Agreement expands distribution of JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and Lewis Cellars nationwide.

Elaine Chukan Brown on the Significance of Wine

A talk on wine's significance by Elaine Chukan Brown at the 2026 Wine Writers Symposium at Meadowood in Napa Valley.

The evolving languages of Pinot Noir

Meg Maker charts the evolution of writing on Pinot Noir, from the evaluative, to the descriptive and metaphoric.

US ban an 'act of consumer resistance' by Canadians

Canadian wine producers are in no rush for US-made alcohol to return to Canada's shelves, describing the "tremendous" impact the ban is having on domestic sales.

New Deloitte White Paper Identifies Canadian Wine Supercluster as $10.1B Economic Growth Engine

A new white paper by Deloitte, commissioned by Wine Growers Canada, finds that Canada’s wine industry supercluster, contributes $10.1 billion to GDP and supports nearly 100,000 jobs annually, underscoring its role as a key driver of rural economic development, investment, and long-term growth.

Brown-Forman Declines Sazerac’s $15 Billion Bid

Brown-Forman has formally rejected Sazerac’s purchase offer, turning down the $15 billion (or $32-per-share) buyout, according to reporting in the Wall Street Journal and Reuters.

New €4-million Barfontarc winery signals “confidence in the future”

Building on the development of a wildlife-focused wine tourism area in 2025, the Barfontarc co-operative winery in Baronville, Aube, is continuing its modernisation drive.

Navigating the choppy media waters w/ Jason Wise, SOMM TV

Nearly two decades after filming Somm, Jason Wise, Chief Creative Officer of Somm TV and Director of the Somm movies, has a deep view of wine in the media.

A Short Course in Publicity with O.G. Julie Ann Kodmur

Small Fortune podcast host Carol Collison talks with Julie Ann Kodmur who worked on an early Sotheby’s wine auction, and then worked for many important distributors and wine companies before starting her own company in 1997.

2026 BMO Wine Market Report Finds Global Trade Strained

The third edition of this annual report finds global trade strained even further than it was at this time last year. While refunds are expected from tariffs enacted by the U.S. government, the impact on trade in North America and the rest of the world was immediate and will have repercussions that will be felt for decades.

Can a Pleading Social Media Post Save a Struggling Bar?

By the looks of it, you’d never guess the building’s landlord is trying to evict the beloved Times Square haunt three years before its lease is up.

California Wine Lawsuit Update: The State Moves to Dismiss

The case asks a focused question: when California allows in-state wineries to sell wine directly to California retailers, can it constitutionally deny that same option to wineries from other states?

Wine-Searcher Gets a New Owner

Wine-Searcher looks to a new future with GLX U.S. Inc., which has become our new owner.

Data Reveals Who’s Behind Napa’s Wine Industry

A new study uses data to paint a picture of the backbone of Napa's agricultural and wine economy.

High-profile Virginia winery to be acquired by start-up

A newly-formed ownership company will purchase Veritas Vineyards & Winery, known for its luxury wine tourism offering, as the producer's British founders retire.

US saw -5% decline in beverage alcohol consumption in 2025

Total consumption of beverage alcohol in the US declined by -5% during 2025, accordingThis is the result of weaking volume sales across every major category in the US market, including alcoholic beer (down -6%); wine (-6%); and spirits (-4%).

NIQ Full View: BevAl Market Report - Week Ending May 2

In the four weeks ending May 2nd, Wine notably lagged versus year-ago results, with dollar sales down -8.3% and case volume declining -8.9%.

Wine-Based RTDs On A Steep Growth Trajectory

While much of the focus in the vibrant RTD segment has been centered around spirits-based cocktails, wine-based offerings are also seeing pronounced growth.

Champagne Sales More Snakes Than Ladders

Champagne has seen some tough times in recent years, but perhaps the sales decline has bottomed out.

Cavit Wines Returns to Original 1970s Price for 50-Year Milestone

Consumers Can Enjoy Cavit Pinot Grigio at Its Original $6.99 Price via National Rebate, concluding on Pinot Grigio Day May 11, 2026 (Port Washington, NY)

New Historical Evidence Crowns La Serena as the True Cradle of Chilean Wine

For centuries, the history of Chilean wine has been told through the lens of Santiago and the Central Valley.

Vermont Wine Grows Into Its Future

Collaboration, strong narratives, and a hospitality mindset are propelling this young region forward.

Chianti DOCG set to include rosé among other changes

The Chianti DOCG is preparing for a series of amendments to its production specifications, covering grape varieties and rosé winemaking.

Letter: Our wine industry’s endless ‘pursuit of more’

During the 2008 financial downturn, Obama’s Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel famously said, “Don’t let a crisis go to waste.”

A Litigation Strategy Is The Only Hope To Combat Alcohol Wholesaler Consolidation

A couple million dollars should do the trick to rebalance the industry.

Mouton Cadet: 'It's not just about the wine, it's how we communicate it'

Mouton Cadet is searching for a new way of translating heritage to a younger generation of US wine drinkers.

Fero’s Mitch Fowler on galvanising young drinks leaders of the future

The drinks industry’s young leaders of tomorrow are not looking to prioritise the product and technical knowledge of the drinks they sell (only 4%), but rather want to be equipped with the business vision (46%) and commerce skills (32%) that will take them to the top of the sector.

I Looked at 1,000 Wine Lists. The Data Says the State of Fine Wine is Boring and Overpriced.

I studied the numbers from 1,063 Michelin-starred wine lists. I thought I'd uncover hidden gems, but that’s not what I found.

Bordeaux 2025: A Vintage of Promise Meets Market Challenges

Cheval Blanc sets the tone for 2025 futures with significant price increase amid a complex wine market landscape.

Wine-Searcher Gets a New Owner

Wine-Searcher looks to a new future with GLX U.S. Inc., which has become our new owner.

Chateaux Parnay and Princé lose the architect of their €45-million vision, Régis Vincenot

Régis Vincenot passed away suddenly at the age of 73.

High-profile Virginia winery to be acquired by start-up

A newly-formed investment company will purchase Veritas Vineyards & Winery, known for its stellar wine tourism offering, as the producer's British founders retire.

Amber Beverage UK onboard two new directors

Spirits distributor Amber Beverage UK has announced the appointment of Selene Cakmak-Rathee as marketing director and Nick Duncan as UK sales director.

Wine Claims Another Court Victory

Another brick fell out of the three-tier system's anti-free trade wall this week, after a court case in Ohio. Read the latest wine news & opinion on wine-searcher

Data Reveals Who’s Behind Napa’s Wine Industry

A new study uses data to paint a picture of the backbone of Napa's agricultural and wine economy.

Spanish Wine Production Falls in 2025/26 as Exports Decline

Spain's wine production dropped 7.1% in the 2025/26 campaign. Exports fell 7.7% and domestic consumption declined 4.3% amid shifting market conditions.

Gen Z to Wine: Please Stop Condescending to Us

A response to Wine Spectator's—and the industry's—hand-wringing over young people and their wine-drinking habits.

Mixed April for drinks sales but LAD categories shine in the sun

Brighter weather has helped to drag On-Premise drinks sales growth back in line with inflation, after storms and anxieties about costs held back footfall over Easter.

Ancient wine grape variety reducing farmers' water consumption by 75pc

In an Australian first, two South Australian wine grape growers are trialling an ancient variety from Cyprus that is reducing water consumption and reconnecting them to their Mediterranean roots.

Taking a BioPowered Approach To Crop Protection Research and Development

Summit Agro’s new product development focus aims to grow the market for biocontrols while simultaneously extending the market life of synthetic chemistries.

Paso Robles wine industry launches campaign aimed at younger consumers

Paso Robles wine industry leaders are launching a coordinated campaign aimed at attracting younger consumers as wineries across the region adapt to changing drinking habits and evolving trends in tourism.

Why Fine Wine Is Luring Investors

As markets around the world roil, some investors are looking to diversify their portfolios with fine wine.

Joanna Dabrowska on how to stop fearing AI and start embracing it

Data and AI strategist Joanna Dabrowska sets out where the true value of AI is in helping take the wine industry to the next technological level.

Tech Innovation Is Not Adaptation

“Human ingenuity and technology cannot violate thermodynamics and physics.”

Why London is English winemaking’s new hotspot

Urban wineries are turning pockets of industrial London into hubs of creative fermentation, their playful, low-intervention releases winning fans far beyond the capital

Top Tasmanian winery hits the market

Moores Hill Estate in Tasmania is for sale as a going concern including the vineyards, winery and cellar door.

When the Market Clears

How Napa’s Wine Boom Reached Its Limits—and What Happens Next

ETNA and its Wines - Modern Revival of an Ancient Vine-land, Part I

Etna is like an immense housecat that quietly purrs and every now and then wakes up, yawns, stretches with lazy slowness and, with a distracted swipe of its paw, covers now one valley now another, obliterating villages, vineyards and gardens.

On Washington’s 2023 vintage

55+ new wines reviewed below and in the database, including the latest from Ago, Covington, Figgins, Force Majeure, Grosgrain, Hoquetus, Lawrelin, Leonetti, Passing Time, R|A Family, Seven Hills, Trothe, Two Vintners, and WeatherEye.

Amber Beverage UK onboard two new directors

Spirits distributor Amber Beverage UK has announced the appointment of Selene Cakmak-Rathee as marketing director and Nick Duncan as UK sales director.

€4 million for the first vines under solar panels in Cognac

The agrivoltaic power plant in Saint-André-de-Lidon, Charente-Maritime, is operated by winegrower brothers David and Alexis Moreau

Wine Claims Another Court Victory

Another brick fell out of the three-tier system's anti-free trade wall this week, after a court case in Ohio.

RTDs In The Wine Space

Wine-based RTDs spark interest among consumers, and big potential growth

Chile's wine sector adapts to falling demand, low-alcohol trend

Chile's wine industry is facing mounting challenges as global consumption declines and consumers increasingly favor lower-alcohol beverages.

Solos Unlocks Premium NoLo in the U.S. As First Wines Made with Breakthrough Aroma Technology Enter Market

Fully live in California, Solos--now scaling to six international markets--is closing the NoLo quality gap, accelerating the category among strong global demand

Prestige Wine Imports Appoints Trellis Wine & Spirits as Exclusive On-Premise National Accounts Partner

Prestige Wine Imports is proud to announce the partnership of Trellis Wine & Spirits, an exclusive on-premise partner for National Accounts,...

TOPS at SPAR and Bruce Jack Wines celebrate sixth global honour, strengthening retail partnership

Bruce Jack Wines has earned its place among the World's Most Admired Wine Brands of 2026 for the sixth time.

Canada is kicking its US booze habit as trade tensions persist

Canada’s shunning of beer, wine and spirits from the US is a textbook example of how market access for politically exposed goods can quickly unravel.

How the islands are driving rosé’s rise in Southeast Asia

While major Southeast Asian cities continue to favour red wine, consumers are gravitating towards lighter styles – Champagne, light whites and increasingly, rosés – in Bali and Thailand’s islands

Coles Liquor and Endeavour release data on Mother’s Day drinks trends

Double-digit surges in forecast for Champagne and pub bookings this Mother’s Day across Liquorland and ALH Hotels

Stop Losing Wine Club Members: How to Predict and Prevent Cancellations

By Alex Caffarini Most wineries don’t lose wine club members overnight – they lose them slowly, months before cancellation formally happens. As wine sales

Connecting With Customers

Pennsylvania wine and spirits officials tap strategies for rapidly evolving consumer trends

Data Reveals Who’s Behind Napa’s Wine Industry

A new study uses data to paint a picture of the backbone of Napa's agricultural and wine economy.

Los jefes in Washington's fruit industry

Lupe Muñoz, a longtime orchard manager, built his career and extended family with a third-grade education, affable personality, strong work ethic and huge break — amnesty from Ronald Reagan in 1986. He’s one of a sizable cohort of tree fruit managers from Latin America now aging out of the industry at a much different time for immigration.

Altano, Rewilding Edition, Douro

Altano’s Rewilding Edition Douro red described as a wine that ‘gives back’

Why the odds keep rising for the strongest El Niño in a century; Tracking headwaters management for wildfire resilience in CA

Chances are rising that an El Niño expected to form soon could become one of the most powerful such events on record, according to new data released this week.

Under the Hood: The Challenges of Napa's Massive Marketing Machine

By Tim Carl

Brunello, Biodynamics, Press Trips, a Fellowship, and The Theory of “Post-natural” Wine

This week’s favorite stories about food, wine, and culture

The Death of the Three-Tier System of Wine Sales

Did a Federal Court Just Say the Quiet Part Out Loud?

RTDs In The Wine Space

Wine-based RTDs spark interest among consumers, and big potential growth

Chile's wine sector adapts to falling demand, low-alcohol trend

Chile's wine industry is facing mounting challenges as global consumption declines and consumers increasingly favor lower-alcohol beverages.

Solos Unlocks Premium NoLo in the U.S. As First Wines Made with Breakthrough Aroma Technology Enter Market

Press Release - Fully live in California, Solos--now scaling to six international markets--is closing the NoLo quality gap, accelerating the category among strong global demand

Napa Valley rival looms over Wine Country as shocking figures leave sommeliers on life support

Napa Valley wineries have been getting some stiff competition from the county to the north as of late, with Sonoma County tasting rooms seeing far more visitors keeping sommeliers on the job.

Wine facility with 4.5M gallons went up in flames in Eastern WA

A wine production center and tasting room near Mattawa in Grant County in Eastern Washington caught fire on May 5. The facility had 4.5 million gallons of wine inside.

Jim Barry Wines appoints first female senior winemaker in 67-year history

Jim Barry Wines has announced the appointment of Topsi Wallace as its senior winemaker, making her the first female to hold the position in its 67 years of operation.

Sixth Circuit holds Ohio retailer shipping restrictions unconstitutional

The Sixth Circuit reversed and remanded a district court decision upholding Ohio’s discriminatory wine retailer shipping law and its law limiting Ohio residents from transporting wine into the state. As the Court stated “We thus hold the Direct Ship Restriction unconstitutional.”

Bremer winery growth request in Napa Valley proves controversial

Bremer Family Winery growth requests were continued by the Planning Commission until July 1.

Supreme Court Slated to Decide Whether to Take Two Alcohol Retail Shipping Cases Next Week

The briefing is all completed and now it is in the hands of the Supreme Court whether they will review the 9th Circuit decision upholding the Arizona retail shipping law or the 7th Circuit decision upholding the Indiana shipping law.

How Dellavita wants to be a new source for "authentic" wines

It’s a far cry from the deafening streets of Formula 1 to the tranquility of vines and vineyards but for Dale Upton it was a change in career he is delighted to have made as he and his wife, Ella Upton-Clarke, who has switched from high finance into wine, look to set up their own wine importing business.

Calistoga’s Clos Pegase returns, newly revamped and art-focused

New owners invest millions into acquiring and restoring the Napa Valley winery, introducing artist residences, redesigned spaces and a renewed focus on immersive visitor experiences.

After 33 years, a Eugene family buys back their wine estate

This spring, Silvan Ridge Winery was sold back to the estate’s founding family and restored to its original name, Hinman Vineyards.

Paso Robles vineyard demand

Paso Robles vineyard demand is broader than AVA-labeled wine alone suggests. Lower yield assumptions, uncounted production, and broader wine programs indicate that significantly more acreage supports Paso Robles fruit than previously estimated.

Wine Institute Secures Critical USDA Funding to Drive Export Growth for U.S. Wines

Wine Institute today announced it has secured funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS) under the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP)

RTDs Buoy Wine And Spirits Sales At Retail

For the four weeks ending April 25, total beverage alcohol dollars slipped 3.3% year-over-year to $8.2 billion in NielsenIQ channels. Wine dollar sales were down 5.6% and volume fell 6.7%, while spirits dollars dipped 5.8% on volume down 5.1%

The Nantes wine region reaches out to Corbières: “Those who have lived through disasters help lift each other’s spirits”.

“They suffered from frost, whilst we faced wildfires”, recalls winegrower Hervé Le Ferrer of Domaine le Grand Crès in Fabrezan, Aude.

Neleman becomes IWCA Silver Member

International Wineries for Climate Action (IWCA) is delighted to announce leading Spanish producer Neleman as a new Silver member of IWCA.

Why TFWA's Sarah Branquino is a 'future-facing' decision-maker

In an exclusive interview, TFWA president Sarah Branquino reveals how her career journey and pinpoints what GTR needs to continue to achieve to secure its future. Jessica Mason reports.

How One Wine Body Finally Called Out the Junk Science

The German Wine Institute has had enough. The wine trade has faced many shocks in the post-pandemic era, but none bigger than discovering that wine is considered a threat to public health.

On Anstie’s law of safe drinking

Inspired by the 19th-century English physician Francis E Anstie, Dr Erik Skovenborg explores attitudes to risk and drinking alcohol.

First 100-degree days of the year are coming to parts of California

A hot spell of weather will engulf much of California this weekend into early next week, marking this year’s first true bout of heat in many places. Some cities may hit 100 or even 105 degrees earlier in the year than ever before.

Resilience in Virginia's Vineyards

Virginia vineyards battle spring frost with resilience and innovation, protecting early growth showcasing the dedication behind every bottle.

Napa Valley rival looms over Wine Country as shocking figures leave sommeliers on life support

Napa Valley wineries have been getting some stiff competition from the county to the north as of late, with Sonoma County tasting rooms seeing far more visitors keeping sommeliers on the job.

Wine facility with 4.5M gallons went up in flames in Eastern WA

A wine production center and tasting room near Mattawa in Grant County in Eastern Washington caught fire on May 5. The facility had 4.5 million gallons of wine inside.

Jim Barry Wines appoints first female senior winemaker in 67-year history

Jim Barry Wines has announced the appointment of Topsi Wallace as its senior winemaker, making her the first female to hold the position in its 67 years of operation.

Wine Institute Promotes Tyler Rudd to Vice President of State Relations

Wine Institute announced the promotion of Tyler Rudd to vice president of State Relations, a role he assumed in April 2026. Rudd, who has served as central states counsel for Wine Institute since June 2016, steps into his new position following the appointment of Steve Gross as Wine Institute’s interim resident and CEO. 

CA Winemakers Embrace Alternative Grape Varieties

At a Healdsburg panel hosted by Mascarin Family Wines, three Sonoma winemakers made the case for Chenin Blanc, Timorasso, Gamay, and other non-traditional grapes shaping California's future.

Flavored Wines Are Leading Key Industry Trends in 2026

The growth of flavored wine offers lessons in accessibility, flavor, and meeting evolving consumer demand

NYC Launches PR Campaign Pushing Alcohol-Cancer Link

What would you do if you wanted to motivate someone or some group into giving up wine drinking? The proper answer to that question is simple: Scare the shit out of them.

Tracy Genesen Delivers Keynote: “‘No and Low’ Alcohol Products: A US Regulatory Perspective" for Wine & Law Program, University of Reims, France

This Wednesday, May 6, Tracy Genesen will deliver the keynote for the 16th edition of The Wine & Law Program - A Jean Monnet Chair, at the University of Reims, France.

Hallgarten & Terlato Wines on their successful on-trade sales strategy

No matter how good your wines are they will not succeed in such a competitive marketplace as the UK unless you have a top class distributor fully on board to sell them and place them in the right channels of the trade. But just how does a major importer bed in a new producer to its business to ensure it delivers the sales the winery is looking for?

Bordeaux 2025 releases: Batailley, Pontet-Canet and Moueix set early pace 

Leading Left Bank estates Châteaux Pontet-Canet and Batailley have effectively kick-started the Bordeaux 2025 en primeur releases campaign, alongside top Right Bank wines from JP Moueix and St-Emilion estate Laroque.

The opportunity in Japan for Australian wine

Australia has a relatively low share of the Japanese wine market compared to other markets in Asia – five percent of volume and three percent of value.

Let’s Keep Wine Democratic

The wine market’s extremes are getting more extreme.

Saudi Arabia’s only alcohol store runs short of booze amid Iran war

Saudi Arabia’s only official liquor shop has reported alcohol shortages, as the conflict in West Asia causes supply chain issues and stalls shipments. 

Ag Alert

San Joaquin Valley farmers are removing orchards and fallowing land as California's Sustainable Groundwater Management Act curtails water pumping.

APCOR pushes cork’s sustainable credentials

The Portuguese Cork Association (APCOR) has revealed its UK communications campaign for 2026.

Record ocean heat off California coast echoes ‘The Blob,’ killing seabirds and reshaping weather outlook; CA farms adapt to water crisis with AI, drip irrigation and permanent crops

Over the past several months, an intense marine heat wave has developed in the Pacific from Washington to Baja Mexico, with a particularly extreme hot spot between the Bay Area and San Diego. Ocean temperatures have spiked to as much as 7 degrees hotter than average, with many places breaking records for this time of year.

CAWG Seeks Nominations for 2027 Awards of Excellence

CAWG is accepting nominations for its 2027 Awards of Excellence honoring California winegrape industry leaders.

Finalists for Fortified Wines of the Year Australia 2026

Australia’s fortified wines once took the world by storm, at a time when global tastes leaned firmly toward sweet, richly styled wines.

Loire wines lose one of their most prominent advocates - François-Régis de Fougeroux

The announcement of François-Régis de Fougeroux’s death has sent shockwaves through the Loire wine community. The 52-year-old died in an accident

William “Bill” George Dyer, 1948–2026: Winemaker, Grower, Naturalist and Friend

By Tim Carl

Wine Institute Promotes Tyler Rudd to Vice President of State Relations

Wine Institute announced the promotion of Tyler Rudd to vice president of State Relations, a role he assumed in April 2026. Rudd, who has served as central states counsel for Wine Institute since June 2016, steps into his new position following the appointment of Steve Gross as Wine Institute’s interim resident and CEO. 

Flavored Wines Are Leading Key Industry Trends in 2026

The growth of flavored wine offers lessons in accessibility, flavor, and meeting evolving consumer demand.

Diageo's New CEO Gets Breather As Rivals' Merger Fizzles

Diageo gains breathing room as CEO Dave Lewis faces reduced competition after failed merger talks between Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman.

2025 En Primeur visitor attendance rises 10% - as the Grands Crus finalise pricing,”caution will generally be the norm”

This year’s En Primeur wine presentations captured the interest of marketers but the 2025 vintage now needs to convert that promise into purchase.

Let’s toast the new batch of fashionable wine regions

Millennials and Gen Z don’t want the same drop as their parents — tastes are changing, as is the climate, and it’s forcing winemakers to adapt

Making wine in memory of officers killed by Dezi Freeman

The Porepunkah community and Victoria Police pick grapes together to make wine in honour of Neal Thompson and Vadim De Waart-Hottart, who were killed by Dezi Freeman.

Restaurant wine sales fall as value and new trends drive US growth

On-trade wine sales have dropped sharply in recent years, but pockets of growth are emerging across value-driven, white and sparkling categories. Changing consumer habits are reshaping how diners engage with wine, with flexibility, affordability and experimentation leading the way. Kathleen Willcox reports.

Beverage trends analysis show shift in Australian drink choices

A 28-year analysis of Australian non-alcoholic beverage sales has found a marked shift in consumer preferences

Top Distributors Aim To Outperform In A Rapidly Shifting Market

What a year it’s been in the middle tier. At this time last year there was already significant change underway, with multiple large suppliers transitioning from the Republic National Distributing Co. (RNDC) portfolio to Reyes Beverage Group in the California … Continue reading →

California Winemakers Look Beyond Traditional Grape Varieties at Mascarin Family Wines Panel and Tasting

Healdsburg event brings together three of Sonoma's leading voices on the future of California wine May 4, 2026

Roll Over Beethoven Syndrome? Classical Music & Wine’s Identity Crisis

Jeff Siegel recently interviewed me for a Drinks Insider article called “What Happens if Wine Becomes Just Another Luxury? The Road to Irrelevance.” The article was inspired by a conversation we had about a decade ago (Jeff has a very good memory!) about parallels between classical music and fine wine.

1970 Vintage Port: The star of the decade

If the 1960s had raised the bar in terms of quality Port production, the 1970 vintage turned out to be truly outstanding, says Axel Probst.

Commonwealth Wine School Launches Champagne Specialist Certification Weekend in Boston and San Francisco

Commonwealth Wine School announces its upcoming Champagne Specialist Certification Intensive, an immersive weekend dedicated entirely to the...

Inside Taittinger: Vitalie Taittinger on Tradition, meaningful visits, and the Future of Champagne (PODCAST)

Uncorking What's Next · Episode

Durbanville Hills launches Unfiltered Thursdaze, a new after-hours wine experience where the wine is still becoming

Durbanville Hills is inviting guests into the creative heart of winemaking with the launch of the weekly Unfiltered Thursdaze series.

Derek Li on Hong Kong hospitality & training to be a Master Sommelier

Hong Kong has firmly established itself as one of the driving forces for wine, hospitality and gastronomy in South East Asia. The demands from locals and tourists are high, but so are the levels of service with a generation of talented sommeliers leading the way.

Jamie Goode: Have we made too much of drinkability?

I love smashable red wines. Lighter red wines, pale in colour, low in alcohol with good acidity and no make-up – the sorts of wines that just about drink

Taste of Change

A palate learns. It also teaches.

Smooth Wine and the Death of Attention

In wine, “smooth” is a dangerous compliment. It sounds harmless. Who could object to smooth?

2025 En Primeur visitor attendance rises 10% - as the Grands Crus finalise pricing, “caution will generally be the norm”

This year’s En Primeur wine presentations captured the interest of marketers but the 2025 vintage now needs to convert that promise into purchase.

Sevenhill Cellars appoints new Chief Winemaker

After 175 years of winemaking, The Australian Province of the Society of Jesus and Sevenhill Cellars has Ben Marx as its Chief Winemaker.

Making wine in memory of officers killed by Dezi Freeman

The Porepunkah community and Victoria Police pick grapes together to make wine in honour of Neal Thompson and Vadim De Waart-Hottart, who were killed by Dezi Freeman.

How one French distillery is decarbonising the recycling process for wine by-products and dealcoholisation

Since the start of the war in Ukraine, the cost of gas used to fuel the two boilers at the Arzens co-operative distillery in South-West France has trebled.

Four Winds Vineyard makes Australia’s first ‘circular wine’ using black soldier fly larvae

The initiative sees food waste from the Hyatt Regency consumed by the larvae and recycled onsite into a rich frass, or fertiliser, which nourishes the grapevines that are used to produce Four Winds Vineyard’s new ‘The Circular Vintage’ series.

The Wine Market Has Changed. Here’s How to Navigate What Comes Next.

The wine market is no longer simply in a slowdown – it is in structural correction. Distribution routes are tightening, consumer behavior is shifting, and

Let’s toast the new batch of fashionable wine regions

Millennials and Gen Z don’t want the same drop as their parents — tastes are changing, as is the climate, and it’s forcing winemakers to adapt

This week in wine: Bordeaux En Primeur kicks off, US buying rises

With much of the trade’s focus on Bordeaux En Primeur, the region’s share of secondary market trade value climbed back above Burgundy’s.

Australia Wine Exports Fall 14% As Global Demand Weakens

Australia’s wine exports suffered a 14% drop in the past 12 months ended in March 2026, with softer demand in its key markets including China, the UK and US weighing on overall performance.

Micah and Nate: Selling and Making Biodynamic Wine

I am excited to share new podcast episodes that share the stories of how two people arrived in the winery trade by very different paths. I find that most passionate wine professionals had a rainbow of visions for their future before wine became that future.

‘Maverick energy’ drives Young Gun of Wine finalists

There is a maverick energy running through the finalists in the 20th annual Young Gun of Wine Awards, says the founder, Rory Kent.

Old Vines Have New Meaning

Wines made from old vines have a more powerful phenolic structure, greater aromatic complexity, and more intensity with respect to expressing the characteristics of the vineyards they were sourced from.

Calneggia Family Wines to revive Watershed wine label

The Calneggia family has described the move to bring back the Watershed wine brand as a “measured revival”.

When a Wine Tasting Group Is Not About the Wine

The hottest trend in wine might be the quietest: tasting groups designed for connection more than connoisseurship.

Grand Dames

The Her-story of Oregon Wine

50 Years After The Judgment of Paris: How California Changed Wine

Fifty years ago, the Judgment of Paris opened the world’s eyes to California wine. Today, the wine world is a different place.

Burgundian Pinots from outside Burgundy

While the wine world shakes its head in disbelief at the prices of red burgundy, it’s worth considering in detail some of the best Pinot Noirs produced outside Burgundy.

2026 Smoke Summit: Equipping Growers and Wineries with the Latest Research and Tools on Wildfire Smoke Free Virtual Webinar for the Wine Industry and All Interested Stakeholders | June 8, 2026

The summit will bring together leading researchers and industry experts to share the latest progress on wildfire smoke exposure and how that research is being applied in real-world vineyard and winery decisions, including practical guidance on interpreting lab results, understanding key smoke markers, and using that information to inform timely decisions.

Napa County supervisors wrestle with Arrow&Branch winery appeal settlement

Napa County supervisors played a cautious role in an appeals settlement between Water Audit California and Arrow&Branch Winery.

How one French distillery is decarbonising the recycling process for wine by-products and dealcoholisation

Since the start of the war in Ukraine, the cost of gas used to fuel the two boilers at the Arzens co-operative distillery in South-West France has trebled. “This could have proved fatal for our small distillery, with annual revenue of 3.5 million euros, had demand not remained strong”, says managing director Ophélie Choizit.

Four Winds Vineyard makes Australia’s first ‘circular wine’ using black soldier fly larvae

Four Winds Vineyard has released Australia’s first ‘circular wine’ in collaboration with hotelier Hyatt Regency Sydney and food waste innovator Goterra using millions of fly larvae. The initiative sees food waste from the Hyatt Regency consumed by the larvae and recycled onsite into a rich frass, or fertiliser, which nourishes the grapevines that are used to produce Four Winds Vineyard’s new ‘The Circular Vintage’ series.

Ste. Michelle Wine Estates makes changes at CEO, CCO

David Richardson has been named SMWE’s new chief executive officer. Dan Heller has been named chief commercial officer.

The Wine Group Acquires 'Phony Negroni' Maker St. Agrestis

The Wine Group (TWG) has acquired St. Agrestis, the company behind the rapidly growing non-alcoholic ready-to-drink (RTD) Phony Negroni, chief marketing officer Helen Kurtz tells VinePair.

California’s Wine Whisperer Turns the Page

Matt Taylor makes superb California pinot noirs, chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons and chenin blancs. He’s now navigating a life of winemaking beyond the vineyard that defined his style.

You’re about to see a lot more alcohol on TikTok—and there’s a reason

Liquor companies just unlocked TikTok after years of restrictions. Now they’re racing to win over your algorithm—and your wallet.

Significant Changes Proposed to Napa County Water Availability Analysis

Napa County has released for review its 2026 proposed updated Water Availability Analysis (“WAA”) Public Draft that introduces an updated framework to manage groundwater resources and water use across Napa County.

Napa County supervisors hear more requests for wine regulation relief

Napa County supervisors heard more pleas from the wine and agricultural industries for less red tape.

Wine code of conduct details emerge as industry continues to shrink

Industry representatives welcome a new mandatory code of conduct that dictates how wineries treat wine grape growers, but it may be too late for some producers.

Wines of Argentina Renews Board of Directors to Lead Next Phase of Global Growth

Under the leadership of Lucas Löwi as president and Sofía Pescarmona as vice-president, Wines of Argentina, is entering a new phase focused on strengthening Argentina's position as a leading premium wine-producing country in international markets.

Colruyt Group Launches First Belgian Wine From Own Vineyard

Colruyt Group has introduced its first Belgian-made wine, Pas de Soucis, produced at its vineyard Domaine-Lez-Envies in Frasnes-lez-Anvaing.

Sulfur who? These wineries are using natural alternatives

Learn more about the ingredients that winemakers are using as sulfur alternatives.

Podcast 796 Vino Lingo - “T-Bud Grafting” Jean-Francois Pellet, Partner & Winemaker, Pepper Bridge Winery, Walla Walla, Washington

Cuervo Sales Fall Amid U.S. Distributor Shakeup - Shanken News Daily

Grupo Cuervo saw net sales decline 13.5% to $422 million at constant currency in its fiscal first quarter ended in March, as volume decreased 13.4% to 4.3 million 9-liter cases, weighed down by the company’s distributor transition in the U.S.

The Wine Market Has Changed. Here’s How to Navigate What Comes Next.

The wine market is no longer simply in a slowdown – it is in structural correction. Distribution routes are tightening, consumer behavior is shifting, and the assumptions many wineries relied on even two years ago no longer hold.

Casella partners with Hancocks for New Zealand distribution

Under this new agreement, Hancock will distribute both Yellow Tail and Peter Lehmann Wines, including the “national rollout of the new Peter Lehmann brand look and feel, strengthening visibility for the brand at a pivotal moment”.

Brown-Forman makes more changes to US distribution

Brown-Forman has made additional changes to its distribution network, appointing four new partners for 11 control states in the US.

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Announces Expanded Distribution Agreement With J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits –the world’s preeminent distributor of beverage alcohol – today announced an expanded distribution agreement with J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines (J. Lohr), a family-owned and operated producer of exceptional wines from sustainably farmed estate vineyards in Paso Robles, Monterey County, and Napa Valley, California.

The Drinking Hour podcast: Mclaren Vale's new-wave wines

In episode 263 of the The Drinking Hour, David Kermode speaks to winemakers Steve Pannell and Renae Hirsch about what makes Mclaren Vale special

Blouge, Beer, Failure, Frost, and Drinking Local Wine

This week’s favorite stories about food, wine, and culture

The Wine Group Acquires 'Phony Negroni' Maker St. Agrestis

The Wine Group (TWG) has acquired St. Agrestis, the company behind the rapidly growing non-alcoholic ready-to-drink (RTD) Phony Negroni, chief marketing officer Helen Kurtz tells VinePair. TWG has not disclosed the transaction’s sum.

You’re about to see a lot more alcohol on TikTok—and there’s a reason

Liquor companies just unlocked TikTok after years of restrictions. Now they’re racing to win over your algorithm—and your wallet.

California’s Wine Whisperer Turns the Page

Matt Taylor makes superb California pinot noirs, chardonnays, cabernet sauvignons and chenin blancs. He’s now navigating a life of winemaking beyond the vineyard that defined his style.

European agri-food urge coordinated action to avoid “inflation crisis”

European organisations are calling for concerted measures to avoid a “food inflation crisis” stemming from the stalemate in the Middle East.

Waiting for a Rebound in the Wine Grape Sector

Survey says vineyard managers are dealing with too much inventory and too few wine drinkers.

Pernod Ricard And Jack Daniel's Owner Brown-Forman End Merger Talks

Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman have ended merger talks are they failed to reach mutually acceptable terms.

Brown-Forman Taps New Distributors Across Control State Footprint

Brown-Forman has unveiled a slate of new distribution agreements across 11 control states, parting ways with RNDC, which earlier this week announced a letter of intent to sell its control state business to Martignetti Cos.

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Announces Expanded Distribution Agreement With J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits today announced an expanded distribution agreement with J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines (J. Lohr), a family-owned and operated producer of exceptional wines from sustainably farmed estate vineyards in Paso Robles, Monterey County, and Napa Valley, California.

What next now Brown-Forman/Pernod deal talks are off the table?

Instead of speculating about why the talks ended, it might be more fruitful to think about what could happen next for Pernod and Brown-Forman.  

Manhattan to Acquire ‘Collection’ of RNDC’s Wine & Spirits Brand Rights in NY

More dominos continue to fall as RNDC's territory sell off continues. Leaders with Manhattan Beer & Beverage Distributors announced an agreement to acquire “distribution rights for a collection of wine and spirits brands” from RNDC’s New York joint venture with Opici Family Distributing.

After more than 50 years of free wine pours, a classic S.F. restaurant may close

Pacific Café, a 51-year-old San Francisco restaurant known for classic seafood dishes and complimentary wine pours, may soon serve its last crab cakes and Parmesan-encrusted halibut filets.

Revenue is waiting to be uncorked in data, expert says at local wine industry conference

Insights from Wednesday’s Wine Industry Conference: Low- and no-alcohol categories seem to be cooling locally, and skepticism is growing around “natural” wines.

Climate change is coming for Cabernet. Here’s how one Napa winery is getting ready

In 30 years, will it be too hot to produce Cabernet at an elite level? 

A New Global Report Reframes How The Wine Industry Thinks About Water

Saving Every Drop in Wine brings together global expertise and real-world practices to shift the conversation from water use to water systems.

Scientists warn it's probably too late to save the 'luxury crops' that are used to make coffee, chocolate, and wine

Scientists warn solar cooling can’t guarantee stable harvests needed to save the luxury crops that produce coffee, chocolate, and wine.

San Diego County to host first focus group on rural winery expansion

Wine not change for the better? That's a question that will likely be tackled soon as San Diego County officials seek to modernize the region's winery ordinance.

Prosecco name dispute reaches UK High Court

A legal dispute concerning the use of the term Prosecco is progressing through the UK High Court, placing the spotlight on how rigorously protected wine names are enforced in Britain.

Clif Family Winery & Farm Earns California Green Medal Award and Releases First-Ever Sustainability Report

Clif Family Winery & Farm today announced two major milestones in its ongoing commitment to responsible business: receiving the 2026 California Green Medal Sustainable Winegrowing Environment Award and publishing its first-ever Sustainability Report, a transparent look at its practices, progress, and areas for continued growth.

Regenerative viticulture: the future for champagne

In early April, Drinks International visited champagne house Perrier-Jouët to learn about the work it’s been doing with regenerative viticulture.

The Islander Estate Vineyards achieves sustainability certification across its operations

The Islander Estate Vineyards has received certification from Sustainable Winegrowing Australia (SWA), an achievement the winery said strengthens its commitment to environmentally conscious viticulture and winemaking.

European agri-food urge coordinated action to avoid “inflation crisis”

European organisations are calling for concerted measures to avoid a “food inflation crisis” stemming from the stalemate in the Middle East.

Pernod Ricard And Jack Daniel's Owner Brown-Forman End Merger Talks

Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman have ended merger talks are they failed to reach mutually acceptable terms.

Waiting for a Rebound in the Wine Grape Sector

Survey says vineyard managers are dealing with too much inventory and too few wine drinkers.

US distributor RNDC lines up more disposals

RNDC is planning to offload more of its operations to fellow US business Columbia Distributing and is lining up other deals for assets in other states.

What ‘Chicken-Gate 2026’ Tells Us About Modern Restaurant Economics and the Affordability Crisis in NYC

For those who have managed to keep news of poultry-gate at bay, the debacle began with an Instagram post from New York City Councilman Chi Ossé, reading: “$40 half-chicken at a wine bar?

Vinarchy launches red wine-and-cola RTD

Year old wine company Vinarchy is expanding Jam Shed into ready-to-drink with the launch of Jammy Red Wine x Cola.

India-New Zealand trade pact cuts fruit tariffs, boosts exports, visas

India and New Zealand signed ‌a free trade agreement (FTA) on Monday, lowering tariffs on key fruit imports such as kiwifruit and apples, expanding opportunities for Indian exports and easing visa access as the nations deepen economic ties.

Canada Dumped U.S. Alcohol Amid Tariff Turmoil. Here’s What Canadians Are Drinking Now Instead.

In the year-plus since most Canadian provinces and territories stopped selling imported drinks from the U.S., the huge cost to stateside brands is now clear, with overall exports of spirits down 3.8 percent and the struggling wine industry facing a sudden $357 million gap in foreign sales.

Mionetto Tops A Million Cases In The U.S. Market

Leveraging Prosecco’s popularity in the U.S., the Mionetto brand climbed past 1 million cases last year, according to Impact Databank, helping to propel Germany-based parent company Henkell Freixenet to global sales of €1.25 billion ($1.46b).

How Much is Too Much Sauvignon Blanc?

Amid broader declines in wine sales and consumption, Sauvignon Blanc remains an industry darling, but its rapid rise in popularity and reactive plantings may spell future trouble for California producers.

The Most Wanted White Burgundies of 2026

When it comes to the most wanted white Burgundy, value offerings are gaining track.

Uruguay declares wine a living culture in landmark policy move

Uruguay has formally recognised wine as a ‘living culture’ through a cross-government initiative designed to integrate cultural policy, industry strategy and international diplomacy.

Return to the Near East

Stuart Walton reviews Vins d’Orient: 4000 Ans d’Ivresse, edited by François Clément, a history of wine that goes beyond the Eurocentric.

2026 Grapevine Spring Freeze Injury: What to Expect, Next Steps, and a Survey

A review of the April 2026 freeze event with considerations for future steps in vineyards.

New Virginia winery off to a solid start as it continues to develop its brand and property

Noer Vineyards won gold medals in the Shenandoah Cup competition and the Virginia Governor's Cup.

Clare Valley provides update on 2026 ‘season of resilience’ vintage

The Clare Valley Wine & Grape Association (CVWGA) is pleased to share a “confident outlook” on the 2026 vintage.

M. Learning Academy Announces Multi-City Tour to Bridge the "Execution Gap" in the Wholesale Channel

As distributor consolidation and market volatility continue to disrupt the wine and spirits industry, M. Learning Academy is hitting the road to help brands reclaim control.

The Hidden Cost Eating Into Winery Profits

From tasting rooms to wine clubs, credit card fees are quietly draining winery margins. Here's how to understand the fee structure—and fight back.

Roundup gets its day in court

The central legal issue is a lawsuit where a Missouri man was awarded $1.25 million dollars in a suit where he claimed that Roundup made him sick.

Committee Advances American Wine Labeling Legislation

AB 1585 would require wines labeled “American” to be made from 100% American-grown wine grapes.

US distributor RNDC lines up more disposals

RNDC is planning to offload more of its operations to fellow US business Columbia Distributing and is lining up other deals for assets in other states.

What ‘Chicken-Gate 2026’ Tells Us About Modern Restaurant Economics and the Affordability Crisis in NYC

For those who have managed to keep news of poultry-gate at bay, the debacle began with an Instagram post from New York City Councilman Chi Ossé, reading: “$40 half-chicken at a wine bar?

Vinarchy launches red wine-and-cola RTD

Year old wine company Vinarchy is expanding Jam Shed into ready-to-drink with the launch of Jammy Red Wine x Cola.

The oldest winery in the Finger Lakes is closing after 166 years and is for sale

Pleasant Valley Wine Company in Hammondsport first opened in 1860. The winery had 600 acres of vineyards and produced 500,000 cases of wine annually, according to Wine Business Monthly.

When the Three-Tier System Stops Working

Mississippi’s alcohol distribution system is breaking down in real time.

In Wine Country, Sales Are Down and Fraud Is Rampant

The industry’s murky supply chain has long attracted scammers and con artists. In the words of one expert, “Wine and fraud go hand in hand.”

RNDC to Sell Off Oregon and Washington Markets to Columbia Distributing, With More Moves to Come

After Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) withdrew from California in 2025 and sold off twelve of its markets to Reyes Beverage Group (RBG) earlier this year, the shakeout is set to continue.

Martignetti Companies to Acquire RNDC's National Control State Business

Martignetti Companies and Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC) today announced that they have reached an initial agreement for Martignetti to acquire RNDC's Control State operations. 

Eradication and abdication

As the wine world copes with a severe crisis of demand and overproduction, David Schildknecht asks: What will become of the vineyards?

How a Volatile Trade Landscape Is Transforming Wine Pricing

Tariffs, policy shifts, and rising costs are forcing U.S. importers, distributors, and buyers to rethink their wine pricing strategies.

US on-trade sales tick upwards as consumers return to bars

New data suggests steady gains in the US on-trade sector despite softer spend per visit. Consumer appetite for social occasions remains intact, with sporting events and drinks trends shaping behaviour.

A Year of Stabilizing Decline: What Wine & Spirits Trends Mean for Consumers in 2026

Over the past year, spending on wine and spirits has declined slightly—but steadily. Total revenue across categories has fallen about -5% to -6% compared to the same time last year.

China Moves to Regulate Alcohol-free Wine 

As alcohol-free wine rapidly gains ground in China, regulators are stepping in to bring order to a fast-expanding but loosely defined category in the Asia-Pacific’s largest market for alcohol-free wine.

MAHA group rallies outside Supreme Court as arguments are heard for glyphosate case

A crowd of “Make America Healthy Again” supporters rallied outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday as arguments were heard regarding a glyphosate case.

Portugal’s Vinho Verde, a region transforming itself

And Portugal’s Vinho Verde had (and to some extent still has) a collective brand as a region in the minds of most consumers: it’s a place that makes light, fruity, inexpensive, slightly fizzy white wines.

Maculan & Tenuta Biserno: Italian Wine Beyond the Stereotypes

Breganze and Bibbona. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. These are not necessarily the first things that come to mind when you think about wines from Italy.

New grapevine virus GINV detected for first time in Australia

A grapevine virus known in China and Japan that affects plant growth and productivity has been detected in Australia for the first time in Victorian, Queensland and South Australian table grapes.

Barossa Valley is the most affordable wine region in the world, according to new report

According to Knight Frank’s 2026 Wealth Report, the Barossa Valley is the most affordable wine region by hectare globally, despite its reputation as one of Australia’s premium wine regions.

The oldest winery in the Finger Lakes is closing after 166 years and is for sale

Pleasant Valley Wine Company in Hammondsport first opened in 1860. The winery had 600 acres of vineyards and produced 500,000 cases of wine annually, according to Wine Business Monthly.

When the Three-Tier System Stops Working

Mississippi’s alcohol distribution system is breaking down in real time.

In Wine Country, Sales Are Down and Fraud Is Rampant

The industry’s murky supply chain has long attracted scammers and con artists. In the words of one expert, “Wine and fraud go hand in hand.”

Concierge Auctions Announces Launch of New Global Wine Division with Premier Napa Valley Vineyard Estate

Leading auction house expands speciality portfolio for wine and vineyard estates, adding to its luxury condominium, developer, and private sales divisions

How much does one hectare cost to buy around the world?

Vineyard sales are far from being in decline and for the investor "scarcity beats scale",  reveals the new Wealth Report by real estate consultancy Knight Frank. But which regions are "trading up" in value terms?

We Champion Eating Locally, Why Don't We Do The Same For Wine?

If local restaurants and hotels are supposed to represent the best of their home turf, why aren’t they?

Marselan Finds a Happy Home in China

Marselan might have originated in China, but it has reached new heights on the other side of the world.

Iran war drives change in wine industry practices

The fallout from the Iran conflict is adding new pressure to the global wine trade, from rising costs to disrupted logistics. Producers are now accelerating efforts to build more resilient and environmentally sustainable business models.

Bulk wine sales pick up in Pacific Northwest

After successive years in the doldrums, bulk wine sales are starting to pick up in the Pacific Northwest.

Harvest Update - Southern Hemisphere, April 2026

Production trends lighter amid variable conditions.

France to uproot 28,000 hectares of vines

Nearly 6,000 winegrowers have applied for state aid as France reshapes its vineyard footprint in response to falling demand and climate strain.

Five winemakers shaping the 'new California'

The Wine Institute in California tells Sarah Neish which winemaking powerhouses are seeding the Golden State's future and why. 

P!nk Built A Real Winery—And Hid It From Everyone For Years

P!nk bought a vineyard sight unseen, made wine in a garage for years, and told almost no one. Meet Alecia Moore, owner and winemaker behind Two Wolves Wine.

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and Edrington Announce Expanded Distribution in New York

Southern Glazer’s today announced an expansion of their distribution agreement to include the state of New York, with an effective date of June 1, 2026.

Wine Shipping and the Road To the Supreme Court

Follow the bouncing court case.

WSET Announces New Brand Refresh, Signalling Next Chapter in Global Drinks Education

WSET, the global leader in drinks education, today announces a comprehensive brand evolution.

LAFFORT® 2026 Rendezvous: A Morning Of Innovation, Education, And Tasting For Winemakers

LAFFORT® is pleased to announce the return of the 2026 LAFFORT® Rendezvous, an engaging educational event bringing together winemakers, and technical experts for a morning of cutting-edge research, practical winemaking insights, and comparative tastings. 

Chin-Wu Chen is bringing organically farmed California wines to Taiwan

Chin-Wu Chen speaks about his history as a seismologist, pivoting to wine, and staying connected with Taiwan through sharing California wines.

Léoville Barton Brings Up its Double Century

Wine-Searcher sits down to a chat with Damien Barton Sartorius, a director of Barton Family Wines. r

Concierge Auctions Announces Launch of New Global Wine Division with Premier Napa Valley Vineyard Estate

Leading auction house expands speciality portfolio for wine and vineyard estates, adding to its luxury condominium, developer, and private sales divisions

How much does one hectare cost to buy around the world?

Vineyard sales are far from being in decline and for the investor "scarcity beats scale",  reveals the new Wealth Report by real estate consultancy Knight Frank. But which regions are "trading up" in value terms?

We Champion Eating Locally, Why Don't We Do The Same For Wine?

If local restaurants and hotels are supposed to represent the best of their home turf, why aren’t they?

Napa County to spend $4.8 million on plan to shape the future of Wine Country

The county is working on a blueprint meant to guide policy on housing, land use and agriculture over the next two decades.

California Grape Acreage Report, 2025 Summary

The wine-type grape acreage is estimated at 540,000 acres.

The Economics of Desire: Inside Wine Auctions (Podcast)

Why – and how- did wine become collectible?

Distribution is Not a Sales Strategy

And You're Already Paying for the Salesperson You Didn't Hire

Winery Shipments Climb to $462 Million in March

Total winery direct-to-consumer (DtC) shipment value in March ticked up more than 5% to $462 million compared to the previous year, marking the first month in more than a year to show gains.

Napa Wineries Strangled by Red Tape

Napa County has bitten the winemaking hand that feeds it, but who will pay the price?

What is the Standard of Review for Alcohol Laws?

Compared to other constitutional questions, the Supreme Court has taken relatively few cases about how states regulate beverage alcohol.

Circuit Courts Split on Federal Home Distilling Ban

Two federal circuit courts have recently considered challenges to the 1868 law banning home distilling.

Beyond the Vineyard: The Hidden Footprint of Wine

An Earth Day reflection

Sustainability is the real legacy of Yount Mill Vineyards

Kendall Hoxsey-Onysko and Alec Klobuchar of Yount Mill Vineyards articulate the family-run wine business' legacy of sustainability.

Paşaeli, 6N Old Vines Karasakız 2024 Aegean

An ultra-rare variety, a legendary ancient landscape and a very determined producer come together in this delicious Turkish red.

Nothing wasted: Taiwan's circular wine revolution

Taiwan’s young wine industry is turning waste into opportunity, as a new wave of winemakers transform leftover lees and pomace into everything from chocolate to fermented tofu.

Constellation Brands Appoints Industry Veteran Jack Edwards as Chief S

Edwards brings more than two decades of industry and general management experience Rochester, N.Y.

Breakthru Beverage Group Names Barry Thompson East Region President

The 25-year Industry Veteran to Drive Growth and Strengthen Partnerships

One of the Bay Area's most ambitious wine and food festivals returns to Sonoma County. Here's what's new

The fifth annual Healdsburg Wine and Food Experiences returns to Sonoma County May 14-17, with nearly 20 events lined up for the four-day festival.

Wine Spectator’s 2026 Grand Tour Kicks Off in Denver With Over 1,000 Wine Lovers

The tri-city wine tasting extravaganza brought a record number of guests together on its opening weekend in Denver. Next, it comes to San Diego and Tampa!

Napa County to spend $4.8 million on plan to shape the future of Wine Country

The county is working on a blueprint meant to guide policy on housing, land use and agriculture over the next two decades.

California Grape Acreage Report, 2025 Summary

The wine-type grape acreage is estimated at 540,000 acres.

Committee Advances American Wine Truth in Labeling Legislation

AB 1585 passes first committee on an 18--0 bipartisan vote.

Champagne experiences its second-worst frost year on record

With 38% of buds affected by frost as of 8 April, 2026 now ranks just behind 2003 in terms of frost damage to vineyards in Champagne.

Treasury Wine Estates moves to "regional operating model"

Treasury Wine Estates has set out how it will reorganise its business structure to operate more effectively and improve efficiency.

'Widespread devastation': Frost damages grape buds across multiple Eastern states

Overnight temperatures dropped into the mid-20s from New York down to Virginia. What it means for a lot of wineries is far less fruit to harvest this fall.

Will the US wine industry ever recover from the current glut?

Listen now: Ciatti's Glenn Proctor speaks to Liquid Assets

Barossa Valley hits the dregs in vineyard price ranking

Land values in the famed South Australian wine region have fallen below those in South Africa and New Zealand. The tide will turn, but not just yet, analysts say.

The hidden cost of buying wine en primeur, and why it now makes little sense

Buying wine en primeur has two potential benefits.

Bob and Me

The World's Most Famous Wine Critic has always been just "Bob" to me.

Could glass be dethroned as wine's top packaging? Researchers unbox consumer perceptions of wine packaging

With nearly 400 years under its cork, glass is still the top choice for consumers when it comes to packaging preferences for wine, but sustainability concerns may open the way to other container types, a study by food science and economics researchers has found.

Jumping into Regenerative Wine

Santa Barbara County vintners join the global One Block Challenge effort to fix farming.

North Macedonia Makes Its Case at Vinexpo Americas

From the sun-drenched Vardar Valley to Miami's Vinexpo Americas, North Macedonia's top producers are putting one of Europe's most underexplored wine regions on the map.

Rhône Valley Vineyards Launches Dynamic 2026 Integrated Communications Program in the US

The historic wine region announces new strategic campaign to strengthen engagement with US consumers.

The World’s Top 10 Wine Destinations for 2026

As the Northern Hemisphere nears its summer months, wineries around the world are gearing up for the deluge of tourists who will soon step through their doors.

New Cornerstone Sonoma owners to celebrate rejuvenated ‘gateway to Wine Country’ with grand reopening

“We took it over as a way to give it back to the community,” said the new owner.

Judgment of Paris at 50: Still Relevant? Esther Mobley’s take plus her 10 Years at the San Francisco Chronicle Covering a Changing Wine Industry

We’ll chat about how that legendary showdown reshaped the wine scene, what’s changed over the last five decades in California and where things are headed next.

The Economics of Desire: Inside Wine Auctions

Why - and how- did wine become collectible?

Champagne experiences its second-worst frost year on record

With 38% of buds affected by frost as of 8 April, 2026 now ranks just behind 2003 in terms of frost damage to vineyards in Champagne.

'Widespread devastation': Frost damages grape buds across multiple Eastern states

Overnight temperatures dropped into the mid-20s from New York down to Virginia. What it means for a lot of wineries is far less fruit to harvest this fall.

Treasury Wine Estates moves to "regional operating model"

Treasury Wine Estates has set out how it will reorganise its business structure to operate more effectively and improve efficiency.

Barrel Leasing Company H&A Seeks Protection from French Commercial Court: What U.S. and California Wineries Should Know

Recent news headlines out of France regarding wine barrel management and leasing mainstay H&A Group have sparked concerns within the global wine industry, with potential significant impacts to the domestic and local wine industry’s barrel financing programs.

CA Hearing Set for American Wine Labeling Bill

AB 1585 would require wines labeled 'American' to use 100% U.S.-grown grapes. California's first public hearing is April 22 in Sacramento.

Changing Landscape: Beverage alcohol distributors dramatically alter their business models

As the beverage alcohol industry approaches the 100th anniversary of Repeal, the wholesale tier is experiencing dramatic disruptions, resulting in new routes to market for wine, spirits, and beer.

Saxco Update - April 2026

Energy price volatility adds to packaging costs.

Azur Associates Wine Market + M&A Review 2026 Outlook

The wine industry is no longer demand constrained by supply. It is supply constrained by relevance.

Whole Foods Market Debuts Line Of Robert Hall Wines, The First Domestic Regenerative Organic Certified Wines On Its Shelves

Robert Hall Winery makes a statement by launching ROC Certified wines at the nation's largest natural grocer on Earth Day.

Matter of Taste

Retail store tastings are essential for elevating industry culture and business.

Vineyard pests targeted through new PhD research

Two significant pests to Australian vineyards are being targeted in a new project led by Australian National University (ANU) PhD candidate Yilin Bae, who has been awarded Wine Australia’s Dr Tony Jordan OAM Award 2026.

Historic Concannon Vineyard Awarded Replanting Loan from Tri-Valley Conservancy

Second low-interest loan to support vineyard replanting in Livermore Valley's historic winegrowing region.

Lafite 1870 magnums smash estimates in 'immortal' Bordeaux auction

Fierce bidding in the Sotheby's New York sale featured an intense tussle for Lafite 1870 once stowed in a Scottish castle, as wealthy collectors turned out in force for Bordeaux's rarest wines and drove total sales above $2m.

Emerging auction trends: broadening diversity, younger vintages and organics on the rise

While demand for mature wines remains strong, wine lovers are increasingly open to “acquiring recent vintages at auction”, according to the annual iDealwine Barometer, which revealed some of the top trends of 2025.

The Wine Club Retention Crisis

40% of wine club members quit within a year. With acquisition costs soaring, wineries can't afford the churn. Here's why the old model is breaking down—and what's working now.

Alexander Valley Winegrowers Connect with Next Generation Through “Next Gen Wine 101” at Silver Oak Cellars

On Saturday, April 18, the Alexander Valley Winegrowers (AVW) hosted “Next Gen Wine 101” as part of the Taste Alexander Valley free tasting campaign for April.

Livermore Valley Wine Month Expands with Signature Events, Special Tastings and Downtown Dining Deals All May

Featured events and special promotions invite Bay Area wine lovers to explore California’s historic Livermore Valley wine country.

Black Winemakers And Distillers Gather In Seattle To Celebrate Legacy, Build Community

Black winemakers and distillers gather in Seattle to celebrate legacy, build community, and increase representation in the wine and spirits industry.

After 16 Years, CANVAS Founder Colby Smith Celebrates the Close of a Wine Country Institution

Napa and Sonoma's hospitality community marks the retirement of a beloved advocate.

Barrel Leasing Company H&A Seeks Protection from French Commercial Court: What U.S. and California Wineries Should Know

Recent news headlines out of France regarding wine barrel management and leasing mainstay H&A Group have sparked concerns within the global wine industry, with potential significant impacts to the domestic and local wine industry’s barrel financing programs.

Changing Landscape: Beverage alcohol distributors dramatically alter their business models

As the beverage alcohol industry approaches the 100th anniversary of Repeal, the wholesale tier is experiencing dramatic disruptions, resulting in new routes to market for wine, spirits, and beer.

 CA Legislature to Hold First Public Hearing on American Wine Truth in Labeling Bill

CAWG and Family Winemakers of California Urge Industry and Public to Watch or Attend April 20, 2026 (Sacramento, CA)

Businesses begin claiming refunds for Trump tariffs struck down by US Supreme Court

A refund system for businesses that paid tariffs which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled President Donald Trump imposed without the constitutional authority to do so launched Monday.

Sazerac Prepares $15 Billion Cash Offer for Maker of Jack Daniel’s

The Kentucky spirits company’s bid for Brown-Forman comes as the industry is being buffeted by a decline in alcohol consumption.

Climate and Wine: Holding On

If a region is built on quality, and that quality is based on climate, what happens when it all goes to chaos?

Pernod Ricard gains family backing in Brown-Forman pursuit

Pernod Ricard is reported to have secured support from the Brown family in its bid to combine with Brown-Forman. The proposed merger of equals is seen as more attractive than a rival takeover offer from US spirits group Sazerac.

As It Courts Brown-Forman, Sazerac Keeps Organic Growth Churning

Owned by the Goldring family, Sazerac Company has steadily built its portfolio over the years through a mix of organic growth and strategic acquisitions and now ranks as the largest U.S. spirits supplier in volume at some 47 million cases.

UK Man Gets 10 Years in Prison for $97 Million Wine Loan Scam

A British man was sentenced in Brooklyn, New York, to 10 years in prison for swindling investors out of $97 million tied to a collection of extremely rare and valuable wines that didn’t exist.

Santa Barbara County wine BID faces constitutional challenge from Lompoc winery

A legal challenge to Santa Barbara County’s wine industry marketing mandate remains unresolved, with a representative for the Goldwater Institute saying Monday there are no new updates in the dispute.

Inside SoNoMa: SingleThread’s New Kyoto Restaurant

SingleThread’s Kyle and Katina Connaughton open SoNoMa in Kyoto, a 12-seat restaurant blending California and Japanese cuisine with local ingredients, wine and sake.

Gallo's Britt West on Fixing Wine's Relevance Problem and Recruiting the Next Generation

Challenging some marketing misconceptions about the challenges facing the wine industry.

What Happens If Wine Becomes Just Another Luxury?

The road to irrelevance

I WRITE ONLY FOR YOU

My Allegiance is Not to Wineries. Not to vintners. Not to Winemakers

Andrew Lloyd Webber to sell rest of wine collection at auction

Christie's is selling the final tranche of wines from Andrew Lloyd Webber's wine collection to raise money to help disadvantaged secondary school pupils gain access to classical music. 

Bordeaux 2025 En Primeur: Quality meets a market at the crossroads

The Bordeaux 2025 vintage is defined by historically low yields following a hot and dry summer.

Unsung Sonoma County winemaker scores historic victory at North Coast Wine Challenge

Sonoma County winemaker “humbled and honored” after historic win at North Coast Wine Challenge.

Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association Honors ASWA Competition Winners

ASWA honors Chateau MerrillAnne and top winners from its 2025 East Coast wine competition awards presentation.

Businesses can claim refunds starting Monday for Trump tariffs declared unconstitutional

A refund system for businesses that paid tariffs which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled President Donald Trump imposed without the constitutional authority to do so is scheduled to launch Monday.

Sazerac Prepares $15 Billion Cash Offer for Maker of Jack Daniel’s

The Kentucky spirits company’s bid for Brown-Forman comes as the industry is being buffeted by a decline in alcohol consumption.

Climate and Wine: Holding On

If a region is built on quality, and that quality is based on climate, what happens when it all goes to chaos?

Inside the most anticipated California winery opening of the year, or maybe ever

On April 20, following a three-year closure, Robert Mondavi Winery will debut a major transformation.

Dutton-Goldfield Enters New Era Under Full Ownership

Ownership transition reflects deep roots in Sonoma County farming and a vision for a more connected wine experience.

A Family Feud at an Oregon Winery Turns to Vinegar Over A.I. Slop

She wanted to pry her late mother’s vineyard from two of her brothers. Instead, her lawyers were fined nearly $110,000 for citing bogus case law generated by artificial intelligence.

Bordeaux Prices Likely to Rise

As Bordeaux En Primeur 2025 starts up, negociants, merchants and châteaux do their traditional dance over price.

Profits shrivel as yellow tail winemaker posts $5.5 million loss

The maker of one of Australia's best-known wine brands, yellow tail, says rising costs and global factors such as tariffs are behind the sharp drop in profits.

Dorset sparkling wine vineyard for sale for over £1m

A Dorset vineyard planted with classic sparkling wine grapes has been put up for sale with scope for expansion and tourism. The freehold estate includes mature vines, agricultural buildings and planning permission for a winery.

N.J. vineyard that makes 14 types of wine is heading to auction

A Cape May County winery will be auctioned online next month, offering buyers a turnkey operation on more than 22 acres.

Bordeaux "Got Lazy" after Parker

Bordeaux was changed by wine critic Robert Parker, but it wasn't always for the best, according to a major Bordeaux player.

Honesty should be the best policy for wine critics

Wine critics should feel compelled, obliged even, to publish the bad as well as the good.

AI will help wine sales in hospitality but won’t replace humans

Artificial intelligence can help sell wine on the restaurant floor, but it won't replace the human touch, says hospitality professional.

Montys on a Dublin Monday

A stunning wine list in a Nepalese restaurant in the Irish capital.

Tropical terroir: inside Bali's budding wine scene

Amelie Maurice-Jones investigates how local producers, rising on-trade demand and shifting consumer attitudes are reshaping Bali’s once-nascent wine sector.

New book on Japanese wine offers 'comprehensive guide'

After delving into the world sake last month, our regular reviewer is pleasantly surprised by a self-published book on the wines of Japan.

Is This Ohio Wine Region the Midwest's Napa Valley?

Near the shores of Lake Erie in northeast Ohio, the Grand River Valley wine region has been aging for decades. Now it’s fully mature and ready to drink.

Malbec's Living Memory: Dr. Laura Catena On Why Old Vines Matter

Argentina’s old, ungrafted Malbec vines are a viticultural treasure the rest of the world has largely lost. Dr. Laura Catena has dedicate 25 years, and one affordable bottle, making sure they survive.

Patagonia & Rodale Institute to transition an entire California county to regenerative agriculture

Patagonia shareholder Holdfast Collective will assist Rodale Institute's Regenerate Ventura project for farmers hoping to transition.