By using more sophisticated technology and focusing on technique, winemakers can use grape presses to craft more precise wines of different quality levels and styles
New Zealand saw the value of its wine exports fall marginally to NZ$2.10 billion (£0.91 bn) despite a 5% growth in volume over the last 12 months, on the back of “sluggish” sales to established markets.
Foley Family Wines & Spirits is extending its range with a new RTD label, Tequio Tequila Cocktails. The lineup includes Tequio Blanco and Reposado Tequila Sodas both at 5% abv, as well as a Tequio Paloma at 6.9% abv that will join the portfolio later this year. Tequio retails at $20 a four-pack of 355-ml. cans. The brand was founded by Louis-Pascal Walsh and Frederick “Flick” Mooradian in Venice, California.
Tequio’s RTDs are made with El Mexicano Tequila, also part of the Foley portfolio. “Sitting at the intersection of Tequila and RTDs, the two fastest growing segments, Tequio joins our portfolio alongside our Sabe branded cocktail-strengt h, high-abv canned cocktails,” said Foley CMO Jason Daniel. “Both are highly differentiated brands playing in the most resonant and growth-driving segments of the RTD category.”
Woodford Reserve Releases Its First High-proof Rye: Barrel Strength Rye
Barrel Strength Rye honors the legacy of America’s original rye whiskeys, where spice and tobacco take the lead, layered with notes of fruit, floral, and subtle sweetness,
New bribery case shows the three-tier system is not working
Another case has come forth of bribery occurring at a major supermarket chain with a large winery and a large wholesaler alleged to be involved. We can rinse and repeat as these stories repeat themselves time and time again.
While most believe Pinot Grigio originated in Italy, it was actually born, like many of the most popular grapes of the world, in France, where it is known as Pinot Gris.
Proximo Spirits has made The Kraken Dark Caramel and Cornish Sea Salt a permanent part of the brand’s core range, following its debut as a limited edition release last year.
US government shutdown: product delays and lost sales possible
The American spirits industry could face delayed product launches and lost sales after the US government reached a political gridlock, forcing it to shut down.
Chivas Regal has unveiled Crystalgold, its first-ever clear spirit drink, created through a bespoke filtration process that strips colour from oak-aged whisky while retaining flavor
Could Beer Waste Be the Next Big Source of Protein? Scientists Think So
Researchers found that proteins extracted from spent grain, beer’s biggest byproduct, can outperform conventional materials used in food science applications.
After what has seemed like an endless string of smashing successes, the bourbon industry is facing its first real roadblocks in decades, and reports of turmoil and decline have been growing more frequent and agitated over the past year.
Tariffs Have Transformed the Wine World as We Know It
While the U.S. Court of Appeals recently clipped the administration’s wings—declaring his unilateral levies illegal—those fees remain in place as the case moves toward the Supreme Court for further deliberations.
Exports of American spirits plunged by double digits in all key markets during the second quarter (Q2) of 2025, with Canada suffering the largest drop.
Amidst a slow wine market, winemakers say they’re struggling this harvest
A global drop in demand for wine has led to a grape glut, and many U.S. vineyards are letting their grapes rot rather than harvesting them. Growers say it’s one of the worst wine years in decades.
Come Over October: ‘Wine is so much more than alcohol’
The Come Over October campaign is back, and this time it’s calling on wine businesses to fight for their future. Eloise Feilden speaks to its founders.
The number of ageing barrels of Bourbon in Kentucky has hit a record high of 16.1 million, with taxes on the casks soaring by 163% over the last five years.
EH Taylor Bottled in Bond joins Antique Collection
Sazerac-owned Buffalo Trace Distillery is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its Antique Collection with a new addition to the series: EH Taylor Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon.
Maryland-based Sagamore Spirit has promoted Ryan Norwood from vice president of operations to master distiller, after nearly a decade at the distillery.
European beverage market under ‘structural reset’ as 71% of consumers drink less alcohol
Europeans are consuming less alcohol – and many younger consumers are stopping buying alcohol altogether – according to new data released by Circana this week. But winning in this new market is not simply about being alcohol-free…
From algorithms to appellations: the rise of AI in wine
From predictive analytics to fine wine fintech, industry leaders are harnessing technology to make wine more personal, more accessible, and more relevant to a new generation.
Capsules influence wine purchase decisions, shows ‘neuromarketing’ study
In a scientific study exploring the emotional impact of wine capsules on consumers, it was found that nine out of 10 shoppers prefer a wine bottle with a capsule. Furthermore, synergy between the capsule and label is paramount for “brand recall”.
How the ‘95/5’ Rye Mash Bill Went From MGP Signature to Craft Staple
And yet, here in the year 2025, all of the sudden at least a half dozen craft distilleries have begun distilling their own rye with that exact same 95/5 ratio.
Americans reevaluate their relationship with alcohol as consumption hits record low; more Americans confront health risks of moderate drinking
A growing number of Americans are walking away from the bar, the bottle, and a decades-old assumption that a daily drink is harmless. According to the USA Today website, Gallup finds just 54 percent of US adults now say they drink alcohol, the lowest share in nearly 90 years of polling, a change the pollsters say is tied to rising health concerns about even “moderate” drinking.
Unknown perpetrators have stolen almost all the ripe Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc grapes from two vineyards in Gundheim, Rhineland-Palatinate. Police believe the raid, carried out between 6 and 14 September, cost the growers several thousand euros in lost fruit.
Survey uncovers solutions to help US shoppers buy more wine
New consumer research reveals how US shoppers think the wine industry can make buying more approachable, as trade data shows price pressures and competition weighing on sales.
Adored by both bartenders and spirits connoisseurs, rye whiskey has never quite penetrated the home bar of mainstream drinkers (and, to a lesser extent, taterdom) in the same way bourbon has.
Sazerac’s 1792 Bourbonhas released Cognac Cask Finish, the latest permanent addition to brand’s portfolio. The 47.5% abv whiskey is matured in Cognac casks housed on the top floor of the distillery’s rickhouses for at least six months before bottling. 1792 Cognac Cask Finish carries a suggested price of $38 and is now available across the U.S. Last year, the brand was up 25% to 175,000 cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank. 1792’s 2024 performance earned the brand a “Hot Prospect” award from Impact.
What were once seen as the all important traditions that kept wine special and separate to any other drink are now some of the major reasons for holding it back
Despite much hand-wringing by those in the wine trade right now, tech expert and Wine Owners co-founder Nick Martin believes that the grape-based drink has a bright future, when discussing market challenges with db ahead of our conference next month.
We Asked 6 Wine Pros: What’s the Most Overrated Wine Region?
When it comes to wine, certain regions are undeniably more famous than others, and they tend to be the ones that carry the most prestige (think places like Champagne, Burgundy, and Napa Valley).
Lodi Wine History: The Making of California’s Most Dynamic Wine Region
As we celebrate California Wine Month this September, there’s no better time to dive into the rich history of grape growing and wine production in one of the state’s most significant appellations.
Alcohol Is Killing Americans at an Alarming Rate—Here’s Why
America’s relationship with alcohol is getting better and worse at the same time. Fewer people are drinking overall, which is nice. But for those still clinging to the bottle, things are worse than ever.
Belvedere, part of the Moet Hennessy portfolio, has launched Dirty Brew, a 30% abv coffee-infused vodka. The new entry is a blend of Belvedere’s organic rye vodka with roasted organic robusta coffee beans, and is recommended to be served as a shot or poured over top of desserts such as an Affogato. Belvedere Dirty Brew retails at $37 a 700-ml. bottle and is launching exclusively on ReserveBar. Belvedere had U.S. volume of 345,000 cases last year, according to Impact Databank.
It Shouldn’t Be so Hard to Find a Good NA Drink These Days
It’s not surprising, then, that with such a substantial growing movement, a plethora of new options have cropped up for those who love their drinks, but don’t want the side effects. These non-alcoholic spirits, beers, cocktails, wines, and more have exploded the market, with sales surging 26% over the past year to top $800 million in the US.
5 Alternatives to Sassicaia, Tuscany’s Legendary Red Blend
Known as the original “Super Tuscan” and kick-starting the Bordeaux-variety revolution in Italy in the 1970s, Sassicaia continues to be one of the most highly sought-after wines in its category.
Amaretto Adriatico is introducing Zero, a non-alcoholic amaretto retailing at $32. The newcomer, made in Puglia, Italy, expands Adriatico’s U.S. range, which also includes the flagship Amaretto Adriatico Roasted Almonds expression ($38), along with Bianco, a 16% abv white amaretto ($38). Amaretto Adriatico is made with Filippo Cea almonds from Puglia, Adriatic Sea salt, and half the sweetness of traditional brands, according to the company. The brand is currently present in New York (Empire Merchants), Georgia (Savannah), Connecticut (CDI), Oklahoma (Premium Brands), Maryland and Washington (Breakthru), and will launch in Massachusetts (Martignetti) next month.
Charlie Sheen Partners withPopular Brewery to Debut ‘Wild’ Non-Alcoholic Beer
Dr. Maya Rosman reveals: This is the reason why Israeli wine is actually healthier
The Israeli sun can be especially cruel, but it turns out that for grapes it actually adds advantages. And also – is it worth drinking a glass of wine once a day?
Classic well drinks like the Rum and Coke or Vodka Soda might seem like the easiest cocktails to master, but there are still some nuances to consider while building these simple, two-part drinks.
13 of the Best Cocktails to Make With Sweet Vermouth
From New Orleans originals like the Vieux Carré to sherry-spiked cocktails named for ancient Greek hunters, here are 13 of the best cocktails to make using sweet vermouth.
Here’s Why Your Next Great Sparkling Wine Might Come From Oregon
We all know and love the classic bubbly go-tos — Champagne, Prosecco, Cava — but this American wine region is proving that you needn’t look overseas to sparkle.
Diageo halts production at Balcones and George Dickel
Diageo has temporarily ceased whiskey production at its Balcones and George Dickel distilleries with the loss of 17 jobs, as it re-evaluates its ‘productivity goals’, The Spirits Business can reveal.
Campari’s Wild Turkeyhas announced Master’s Keep Beacon, the final whiskey in the Master’s Keep series. This edition is a blend of 10- and 16-year-old Bourbon, selected by master blender Bruce Russell and master distiller Eddie Russell. The younger whiskey was selected by Bruce and is one of the first whiskies he made with his father Eddie and grandfather Jimmy. The older spirit is Eddie’s pick and dates from the original Wild Turkey distillery before its 2011 expansion. The 59% abv Bourbon carries a suggested price of $300 a bottle and is now rolling out in limited quantities across the U.S. Last year, Wild Turkey was at 806,000 cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
How Wine and Spirits Got Stuck in the Middle of a Global Trade War
Over the last seven years, the alcohol industry has faced chaos and cost increases at the hands of a global trade war. Here’s where we currently stand and how we got here.
The US’s 10% tariff on UK goods is costing the Scotch whisky industry almost £20 million (US$27m) a month in lost exports, according to the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).
10 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT MODELO ESPECIAL BEER
If you think you know a beer, think again. Because Modelo Especial has a lot of things going on that even the most informed beer-lovers don’t have a clue about.
Can non-alcoholic drinks trigger cravings for full-strength alcohol?
A discussion between health experts and teetotallers has raised the quandary over whether non-alcoholic drinks that mimic alcoholic variants can create a yearning for returning to drinking. db looks into the debate.
Gen Z want spicy alcohol, matcha and pickles, report reveals
Spicy alcoholic drinks, functional beverages and matcha are having a moment, according to a Tastewise report composed of billions of data points sourced from April 2023 to April 2025.
Trump does not put the American Liquor Industry First
Unfortunately, when it comes to the liquor industry and opening up markets and enhancing competition, the President has abandoned an America first policy.
Galicia: Unprecedented wildfires scorch more than 90k hectares
While most wine producers avoided the worst, Alvaredos-Hobbs, the boutique project partly owned by Californian winemaker Paul Hobbs, has an estimated loss of 70% of production. The different DOs have started assessing the tragedy ahead of harvest.
Rock legends Queen trademark band’s crest for use on wine
Queen are reportedly preparing to enter the wine business, with founding members Sir Brian May and Roger Taylor trademarking the band’s iconic crest for use on bottles of vino.
Closures manufacturers are celebrating as Trump announces that cork stoppers will not be subject to the 15% tariff applied to most EU products exported to the US. Sarah Neish reports.
We felt it was interesting enough to warrant its own deep dive and explore the multifaceted world of the facets of wine colors. So, let’s have a look at why wines are the colors they are.
Cava DO now 100% organic for Cava de Guarda Superior
All Guarda Superior Cavas released from now onwards will be certified as 100% organic. The milestone has been a long-held target for the Cava DO which now has nearly 110,0000 hectares of certified organic vineyards
Supreme Court Is Next Stop for Wine Importer’s Lawsuit Against Trump’s Trade War
A federal appeals court agreed with a ruling that the President overstepped when he imposed universal tariffs, but the decision has been stayed pending appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court
Kendall-Jackson, the 3-million-case California wine brand known for Chardonnay, is introducing its first sparkling offering. The brand’s Vintner’s Reserve Brut Cuvée ($20) is made via the Charmat method from California-sourc ed French Colombard, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir and is bottled at 11% abv. It’s rolling out nationally at retail and online.
Parent company Jackson Family Wines noted that sparkling wines have been the strongest part of the wine market for several years, fueled by younger consumers. “Over the past five years, nearly 10 million new consumers have entered the category, with sparkling now accounting for more than 12% of total U.S. wine volume, up from just 8% in 2017,” the company said. “While the holiday season still accounts for about 20% of annual sparkling consumption, demand is increasingly driven by year-round occasions.”
Inside Ancient Rome’s Bacchanalia: What wine fueled the party?
Drinking wine to the point of ecstasy is something you’ve probably experienced, perhaps in the confinements of your uni halls, perhaps at pub-trips-gone-haywire, perhaps in a field at 3am. We’re not one to judge, and the ancient Roman god Bacchus wouldn’t have either. In fact, he had a whole cult following dedicated to doing just that. So what actually went down at the Bacchanalia rituals, and, importantly, what wine were they drinking?
Crop thinning—the practice of removing some grape clusters from the vine before harvest—is thought to boost the quality of the remaining crop, but how well does it actually work?
Wine sales have now declined for three years – and the causes are structural and transitory – but there are solutions, according to Stephen Rannekleiv, executive director for food and agribusiness research at Rabobank.
WHO has an unattainable requirement for health and wine
That is, science can never prove that alcohol poses no risk to health, only that it is or is not a low risk. However, the WHO does require precisely that:
The 10 Most Important World Whiskies of the 21st Century So Far
If you wander into your local watering hole and ask the barkeep for a pour of whiskey — without adding any specifics — you’re almost guaranteed to get something that was brought to bottle in either Scotland, the U.S., Ireland, or Canada.
Rémy Cointreau is launching the first ready-to-serve products under its Cointreau orange liqueur brand. Cointreau Citrus Spritz is debuting in Orange & Blood Orange and Lemon & Lime variants, both at 10% abv and retailing at $20 a 750-ml. bottle. The new offerings are a blend of Cointreau, French white wine, and natural citrus flavors.
Why Are BuzzBallz Biggies Such a Big Deal Right Now?
It seems like every generation to come of drinking age has their high octane, pre-packaged beverage.
Are Influencers’ Social Media Posts Promoting Alcohol Beverages Subject to TTB’s Advertising Regulations?
How does TTB determine if a post is an advertisement?
In making this determination, we will consider:
Whether or not an industry member directly, indirectly, or through an affiliate published, disseminated, or caused to be published or disseminated, any advertisement; in this case, the SMI’s posts; or,
If the SMI was compensated directly or indirectly by the industry member in return for the endorsement.
The percentage of U.S. adults who say they drink alcohol has dropped to 54%, the lowest rate seen by Gallup in almost 90 years of tracking alcohol consumption in the country.
Now more than ever people are paying attention to alcohol levels in their wines, as no/low alternatives are finding a fanbase and people consider what moderation means. Decanter digs into the process in the US for labelling alcohol by volume in wines and what those numbers might really mean.
Texas Hill Country wineries team up for first-ever Wine Camp this fall
No, there’s no bunk beds involved, but campers can expect to gain insight into Texas’ ever-growing wine industry through sessions led by growers, winemakers, and culinary experts.
Why are people drinking less in the US? A beer historian has the answers
A Northeastern historian and alcohol industry expert says the aftershock of the COVID-19 pandemic and social media have played a major role in why fewer people, especially young people, are drinking.
With roots dating back to the 1700s in southern Spain, solera aging is a winemaking technique best known for its role in producing the complex, nutty sherry wines of Andalusía.
Going strong: The rise of higher proof American whiskeys
Cask strength whiskeys are growing in popularity, as distillers across the US experiment with higher alcohol levels to offer more authentic spirits with intense flavours. Carissa Chesanek learns more and recommends six bottles to try.
Seven reasons it’s a miracle anyone gets interested in wine
The reality is, given the obstacles that the industry puts up, a better question to ask is, why does anyone get interested in wine? Here are seven reasons it’s a minor miracle.
California sparkling wine producer Chandon, part of the Moët Hennessy portfolio, is launching a new 100% Chardonnay Reserve Blanc de Blancs offering nationally. Aged for a minimum of 3.5 years and partially fermented in French oak barrels, the newcomer retails at $32 a bottle and is made from regeneratively farmed, estate-grown Chardonnay in the cool-climate Carneros style. According to Impact Databank, Chandon grew 2% to just under a half-million cases in the U.S. market last year.
Malibu to launch RTDs with Dole
Pernod Ricard-owned Malibu has joined forces with juice producer Dole on a range of canned cocktails, which will be released early next year.
In Part I of our series on wine and sulfites, Westgarth Wines wine expert Maurizio Broggi explained why this chemical is essential for fine winemaking. In Part II, he looks at the cellar process, health rules, and natural wines.
Why are people drinking less in the US? Doctor links alcohol to cancer
A Gallup poll reveals only 54% of US adults consume alcohol, the lowest since 1939. Alcohol consumption has halved in recent years, with rising concerns over health risks. Experts suggest a shift similar to the decline of tobacco use may be underway, prompting a review of alcohol guidelines.
As wine’s core consumer ages and new recruits are put off by the category’s perceived lack of accessibility, RTDs have gained momentum, boosted by their convenience, flavour innovation and appeal to younger LDA drinkers. How can the wine industry stem the tide?
After Retiring from Football, East Fallowfield’s Dick Vermeil Busy Making Fine Wines
The winery’s tasting room in Napa has already been recognized as the very best in the area, voted number one in Napa for two years running, a distinction that underscores its consistent quality and popularity among visitors.
Climate change pushing winemakers to blend wines from different years
In the world of wine vintage is king. If you are buying a bottle of red, white or rosé then the specific year of the grape harvest is almost always written on the label.
Cheap Beer Brands You Should Avoid Buying, According To Customer Reviews
Here are some of the least expensive beers, which can be found for a relative pittance in six-packs or giant cardboard suitcases, that just aren’t worth the price, according to beer-knowledgeable customers.
Champagne foil remains ‘optional’ after two-year legal battle
The Comité Champagne has withdrawn its opposition to an EU ruling that foil on bottles should be made optional. The turnaround follows research that suggests the absence of foil would not affect sales or damage Champagne’s image.
The Historic Mezcal Harvesting Technique Disappearing in the Modern Era
A fading technique among Oaxacan mezcaleros that the meteoric growth of mezcal has not only left behind, but erased to the point that Google can barely find it: tumbado.
Are Casamigos and Don Julio really 100% agave? New lawsuits say no
Diageo, one of the world’s largest alcoholic beverage companies, is facing two class-action lawsuits alleging that it deceptively marketed its popular tequila brands Casamigos and Don Julio as “100% agave” while allegedly including non-agave-derived alcohol in the products.
Blending wine is about much more than combining different grape varieties—it can impact alcohol, color, flavor, and more. Here, researchers and winemakers explain the science behind this important winemaking process
One Of The Best Dry White Wines For Cooking Is A Lighter Variety
One of the reasons Brian Streeter says that sauvignon blanc is so ideal to cook with is because it lacks oakiness which can interfere with flavors in a dish
Big Wine Backing Away From the Entry Level Should Worry the Entire Industry
A spicy rumor riled up the wine industry earlier this year: Constellation Brands wanted out. And not just a few labels here and there: the whole kit and caboodle.
The main drivers of growth are an increasing health consciousness among consumers, a growing interest in environmental compatibility, and a rising focus on quality and naturalness in food and beverages.
Tariffs could cost alcohol industry US$2bn in sales, Trump warned
A 15% US tariff on EU goods could slash alcohol sales by nearly US$2 billion and threaten 25,000 American jobs, industry leaders have warned in a letter to President Donald Trump. With the festive season looming, the pressure is mounting for a deal.
Suntory Global Spirits has added a new, cocktail-focused Bourbon to the Jim Beam brand. Jim Beam Sunshine is bottled at 40% abv and is meant to be an approachable blend with the company pitching it as ideal for sipping chilled, over ice, or in Highballs. Sunshine, according to Suntory, is aimed at drinkers looking to make lighter, more sessionable cocktails, and is made from a blend of 65% 4-year-old flagship Jim Beam Bourbon and 35% Bourbon made from a mash of 55% corn, 35% brown rice, and 10% malted barley. The new release is available across the U.S. and carries a suggested price of $20 a 750-ml. Last year, Jim Beam was at 5.5 million cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Will Portugal authorize new Defensor grape?
Planting disease-resistant hybrid grapes is still banned in Portugal, but one region is “breaking the taboo” by pushing for authorisation of the white Defensor variety, db can reveal.
Sustainability is more than just a buzz word – it’s a crucial issue for the global wine industry and, by extension, for the sommelier community. And yet it’s fiendishly difficult to define, let alone work into a wine program
Turns out, there are many different factors that can go into determining whether a brilliant ruby red, a pale golden yellow or mandarin orange shine out at us from the glass.
Wine-based RTD brand Beatbox has launched a new Mystic Grape flavor. The 11.1% abv drink comes in 500-ml. cartons and joins the brand’s wide array of fruit-flavored RTDs. The new flavor is available across the U.S. in over 130,000 retail locations, according to the company. Last year, Beatbox surged nearly 80% to reach 5.4 million cases in the U.S. While typically found in individual 500-ml. cartons, Beatbox is also available in 4-packs and 3-liter boxes, depending on the region and flavor.
Alto Agrelo gains GI status in Mendoza
Alto Agrelo has officially become Argentina’s latest Geographical Indication (GI), following a successful campaign by Grupo Avinea in May 2025.
Is Still Prosecco a Clever Bid or a Branding Blunder?
What is the ultimate motivation behind this perplexing product? And more critically, could this fresh face instead derail the successful sparkling storyline of the Prosecco program?
As American as apple pie, Kentucky bourbon was booming after the last Great Recession ended. But as the economy has waned post-Pandemic – and with multiple trade wars on the horizon – the market may be drying up.
US wine trends 2025: premiumisation dominates as volume drops
What’s happening in wine sales in the US mirrors broader economic patterns, with a few key exceptions. The takeaway is that high-end wines are soaring and mid-to-lower-priced wines are tanking. Only it’s not quite that cut and dry. Kathleen Willcox reports.
Class of 2025: EU approves three new grape varieties
We could soon be hearing much more about Calardis Blanc, Magdeleine Noir and Négret de la Canourgue, as the three varieties have officially been added to the list of authorised grape varieties in the European Union.
Canadian and Australian wine professionals are exercised about the number of wines big retailers currently sell, or may be about to offer, under their own labels.
Although the IPA’s roots in America trace back to the West Coast, Vermont has arguably become the IPA capital of the country — and possibly the world — since the craft beer boom of the late ‘90s and early aughts.
Heaven Hill’s Tequila Ocho has launched a new Barrel Proof Reposado in limited quantities across the U.S. The 50.5% abv Tequila is distilled from agave grown in Las Raíces and aged for up to six months in what the company calls “overused” American whiskey barrels. For this year, the brand will release 3,095 cases in the U.S., with each bottle carrying a suggested price of $84 a 750-ml. Last year, Tequila Ocho grew 75% to 105,000 cases, according to Impact Databank.
Wine’s Reasons to be Cheerful
The wine industry has been having a tough old time for a couple of years, but the tide may be turning.
Don’t Overlook This Important Tip For Getting Your Hands On The Rarest Bourbons
One of the rules of buying bourbon is that you should consult store staff if you’re looking for a particular bourbon, or just seeking advice in general.
Brown-Forman has announced this year’s iteration of Old Forester1910 Extra Extra Old, part of the brand’s 117 series of limited releases. The whiskey is bottled at 46.5% abv and is given a two-year second maturation in a heavily charred new oak barrel. It’s named for the 1910 Old Forester distillery fire that forced the brand to re-barrel aging whiskey held in flame-damaged casks. Priced at $65 a 750-ml., it’s available at the Old Forester distillery, select Kentucky retailers, and for online ordering in Washington, D.C., Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Dakota. Old Forester rose 3% to just over 500,000 cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.
In France, they are adapting wine to the market – making it non-alcoholic
In new wine, alcohol molecules are removed while preserving the wine’s aromas, using a special process developed to accommodate the growing appeal of a different product.
Bask in the rugged beauty of Texas Hill Country, America’s third largest AVA, where sun‑soaked plateaus and cool limestone canyons craft distinctive Mediterranean‑style wines.
Quantum Limit has filed a lawsuit against Okell Holdings for planting redwood trees, which Quantum’s owner says is like “dropping a bunker buster bomb” into its Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard. Sarah Neish investigates.
Sazerac-owned Buffalo Trace Distillery has launched Sazerac Rye 100 Proof, a new, higher-abv variant of the company’s Kentucky rye. The new release carries a suggested price of $30 a liter and is available in select states across the U.S. Sazerac Rye 100 Proof is made using the same recipe as the company’s flagship 45% abv Sazerac bottling. The newcomer will also join the Sazerac Barrel Select program, allowing on- and off-premise businesses to select their own barrels of the higher-proof rye.
The Easiest Way To Tell If Your Sparkling Wine Has Gone Bad
You can tell if sparkling wine has gone off “the same way you can tell if a still wine has gone off: “You will smell it,”
E&J Gallo to close SLO County winery, lay off workers. Why?
The closure comes roughly a year after Gallo sold its Edna Valley Vineyard and Winery property on the outskirts of San Luis Obispo — but elected to keep producing wines under the Edna Valley labe
Champagne restricts yields to lowest level since Covid
The region of Champagne has just announced the yield limit for this year’s harvest, setting it at the lowest level this century, aside from 2020, when the first Covid-related lockdowns led to a sharp decline in sales.
Part of what makes port wine sweeter (and more alcoholic), is the fortification process, where an additional spirit is added to the original grape liquid. In this case it’s brandy, or specifically, aguardente
‘Easy’ 2025 vintage in Champagne follows ‘difficult’ 2024
The contrast could hardly be greater as Champagne producers benefit from an “easy” vintage this year following one of the most “difficult” ever faced in 2024, according to a leading cellar master in the region.
Gone are the days of vintners automatically turning to French or American oak to age their wines. With terroir becoming ever more hyper-focused, Portuguese producers are increasingly housing their wines in barrels made from local wood. Sarah Neish reports.
Why alcohol-free has a crucial role to play for beer in the US – Consumer Intel
As the beer market in the US continues its structural decline, the dynamic no-alcohol segment provides a much-needed bright spot, with robust growth set to continue in the years ahead.
Is there a difference between non-vintage and multi-vintage Champagne?
Vintage Champagne is an expression of a single harvest, but when it comes to blending wines from different years, some producers use the term non-vintage, others multi-vintage. So, is there a difference?
Oregon has long been a darling among wine lovers, celebrated for its incredible terroirs, world-class food scene, and gorgeous landscapes with rolling vineyard-lined hills and groves of towering old-growth trees
Is social media dampening hospitality’s creativity?
In a world dominated by image-heavy platforms, we’ve become trapped in a cycle of repetitive ideas and copycat campaigns. At this year’s Tales of the Cocktail conference in New Orleans, three drinks industry experts shared why social media and AI are hindering originality within the hospitality sector, and how taking creativity offline can foster genuine ideas.
Delicato Family Wines’ Gnarly Head has released two new wines celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Grateful Dead. The wines—an Old Vine Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon—both retail for $12 and show off the band’s iconography on their labels. The Zin is sourced from 35- to 85-year-old vines and is from the 2023 vintage, while the Cab is from 2024. Both wines will be available across the U.S. Last year, Gnarly Head was at 180,000 cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Named Best Winery Tour in America by USA TODAY
The oldest winery in RI is the oldest in New England.
Understanding ‘Blue Weber’: A Redundant Name With a Complicated Past
Agave spirits production accelerated rapidly in the late 1800s and early 20th century, but the industry faced a major challenge: meeting growing demand.
Cans of soda are displayed in a case at Kwik Stops Liquor in San Diego, California February 13, 2014. Sodas and most other sugar-sweetened drinks sold in California would be required to carry warning labels for obesity, diabetes and tooth decay under a bill introduced in Sacramento on Thursday and backed by several public health advocacy groups. REUTERS/Sam Hodgson (UNITED STATES – Tags: POLITICS FOOD HEALTH)
Taylor’s Port is deeply committed to sustainability, striving to minimise its environmental impact through innovative practices across all areas of operation.
This Prosecco Region Is Embracing Terroir Over Technique — Here’s Why It Matters
Producers of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco are on a quest to focus on terroir. Here’s how the appellation stands apart from the sea of Prosecco DOC.
Suntory Global Spirits’ vodka RTD brand -196has launched a new combo variety pack, featuring four flavors. Each drink is at 5.5% abv and made with vodka, sparkling water, and frozen and crushed fruit. The 8-pack offers two cans each in Strawberry & Watermelon, Lemon & Lime, Strawberry & Pineapple, and Lemon & Raspberry flavors. The new variety pack carries a suggested price of $20 and is now rolling out across the U.S. While relatively new to the U.S. market, -196 is the largest spirits brand globally by volume at more than 30 million cases in 2024, according to Impact Databank. In the U.S., -196 was at 160,000 cases last year, up from 20,000 a year earlier.
What the Cork Can Tell You About the Age of Your Champagne
How can you determine if the wine was recently bottled or has been sitting in a dusty corner for decades?
Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits has introduced Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon: Gold Roast Bourbon, a 6-Year Tennessee Bourbon finished with whole roasted Arabica coffee beans. Made with coffee beans from Tennessee-based Muletown Coffee Roasters, the new entry is bottled at 46% abv and retails at $50. It’s launching nationally next month. The whiskey is aged in new American oak barrels and passed through the Lincoln County process, then infused with cold-steeped, custom-roasted Arabica coffee beans sourced from the Agalta region of Honduras.
Why the weight of your wine bottle is important
How to Drink Better: Biggest contributor to a wine’s carbon footprint is the glass bottle containing it
If You’re Going To Shake That Bottle Of Champagne, You Must Follow This Rule
The reason you don’t want to shake a bottle of Champagne and open it right away is because pressure will force the cork to pop out and you’ll lose a lot of wine in the spray.
French wine and cheese makers say U.S. tariffs would hit hard
A 30% duty would be “disastrous” for France’s food industry, said Jean-François Loiseau, president of food lobby group ANIA, while Francois Xavier Huard, CEO of dairy association FNIL, said: “It’s a real shock for milk and cheese producers – this is an important market for us”.
Ste Michelle Wine Estates is launching Estival, dedicated to aromatic white wines from the Columbia Valley region of Washington State. The first release is a Sauvignon Blanc sourced from the Horse Heaven Hills sub-AVA. The brand’s name is rooted in the Latin notion of “hibernating in summer,” according to the company. The first vintage of Estival is rolling out now in limited quantities and will be targeted to top restaurants across the country.
Understanding Tannins in Wine: A Complete Guide
Wine lovers often encounter the term “tannins” when discussing their favorite bottles, but what exactly are these mysterious compounds that play such a crucial role in wine structure and flavor?
Ever watch a sommelier sniff and sip a wine and rattle a bunch of stuff that they smell and taste in the wine? Then you sit there scratching your head in wonderment, thinking “How do they do that?”
Weight Loss Drugs: the Black Swan that’s Threatening the Wine Industry
A few years ago, nobody had heard of Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro. Now they are part of a growing number of people’s daily life. And a possible threat to wine.
Alcohol-free beer can cause gout, claims Korean rheumatologist
Non-alcoholic beer is often viewed as a healthier option, but one eminent doctor in Seoul warns that it can still trigger the inflammatory disease gout.
Economic Impact Of U.S. Wine Industry Reaches $323 Billion, Supporting Family Wineries
A conversation with Jim Tresize, President of Wine America, highlights the importance of small family wine businesses across America, and their positive impact on the U.S. economy.
The dip was driven by declines in the US and China, but IWSR highlights emerging growth opportunities, from Tequila and no-alcohol beer in the US to premiumisation trends in China, Canada and Spain.
EU General Court blocks ‘Nero Champagne’ trademark
In a pivotal ruling with wide-reaching implications for the protection of geographical indications, the EU General Court has sided with Comité Champagne and INAO in rejecting the ‘Nero Champagne’ EU trade mark application.
A variety of local and imported wines are displayed on a shelf at a retail shop.
This article, curated by “The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW),” compiles recent news from the liquor industry. Key topics include an explanation of Port wine, Champagne yield restrictions to their lowest since the COVID-19 pandemic, and BuzzBallz’s new inflatable pool. It also covers what corked wine is, a study on TFA in Canadian juices and wine, and the announcement of the second annual “Come Over October” campaign by “COME TOGETHER — A Community for Wine.” The article also links to previous daily liquor industry news compilations from “The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW).
Which style of alcohol-free beer is better for your health?
A new study by German scientists has compared the impact of three styles of non-alcoholic beer — pilsner, mixed beer and wheat beer — on the health of a group of young men.
Although many sparkling wines look similar when poured into a glass, the reality is that this delightfully bubbly beverage comes in a variety of flavors and levels of sweetness.
In a few pockets of the Napa Valley—and up in Lodi, along with arid parts of Spain—you can see them: old and gnarled vines, planted 60, 70, 80 years ago and standing strong and sturdy, like elder statesmen.
Stanley Tucci under fire for sparking negative wine tourism
A new TV series by Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci explores the food and drink of Italy, but does the fame it brings to Italian cities have a darker side
WX Brands has launched Here by Chance, a new Paso Robles-appellate d wine brand. The brand’s Cabernet Sauvignon is made by Kip Lorenzetti, who served as lead winemaker at Paso’s Chronic Cellars. The new release is from the 2022 vintage and carries a suggested price of $25 a bottle. The new wine is rolling out across the U.S. through the summer. WX Brands’ Bread & Butter label is among the most best-selling wines in the U.S. priced above $15, growing 8% to 1.7 million cases last year, according to Impact Databank.
Yes, You Can Keep Sake in the Fridge — for Quite a While
Many assume sake should be finished quickly once opened. But under the right conditions, it lasts far longer than expected.
Here’s The Exact Wine List From The Bear’s Restaurant Menu (And Why It’s Actually Perfect)
While some thought attention to the wine served in the restaurant was generally missing from the last two seasons, the show revisits wine in its fourth season.
The 40 Biggest Beer Companies in the World in 2025
Breweries all over the world are facing geopolitical headwinds, rising ingredient costs, and ever-changing shifts in consumer preferences, but that hasn’t stopped them from persevering and pumping out massive volumes of beer to serve to their customers across the globe.
Every Bottle in the Four Roses Single Barrel Collection, Explained
In the world of Kentucky bourbon, Four Roses often stands out for two reasons: its long, multifaceted history, and its use of 10 different bourbon recipes, derived from two mash bills and five individual yeast strains.
Wine’s downturn is cyclical believes Gallo CCO, Britt West, but – in an exclusive interview with db this week – he stressed that the trade needs to make changes right now to turn the tide.
Together they have created Panther Cuvée, a blend of Leelanau Peninsula Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris grapes with Panther’s Wonderland blend dark roast.
Most commonly, it’s uttered before attempting something dangerous or reckless, but it can also serve as a setup for one-upping someone or performing a heroic act with relative ease.
The cork oak tree (Quercus Sitbe) features prominently in the native landscape around the Mediterranean Sea not only in Portugal, but also Spain, Italy, North Africa, Greece and islands in the Mediterranean.
How One Man’s Passion for French Wine Sparked a Challenge to Trump’s “Emergency” Tariffs
For nearly four decades, Victor Owen Schwartz has scoured the globe for the most authentic wine, spirits, and sake that he could find to bring back to the United States.
Sulfites in wine often spark questions and concerns, leaving many people wondering what they really are and what role they play in the winemaking process.
How’s California’s wine industry doing these days? (Not great)
Alcohol consumption is seeing its lowest levels since 1962, and as early as next year, Ireland will be the first country to prominently print warnings on labels linking drinking to cancer and other illnesses.
Gen Z not shunning alcohol as much as thought, says survey
A rising proportion of Gen Z adults in several countries are drinking alcohol, a new survey has suggested, contradicting a popular image of this younger age group.
Smaller wineries lead economic turnaround in the US
Vintner vs. Cannabis Grower: Feuding Neighbors
Why You Should Never Keep Tequila In The Freezer
Devil’s Advocate: Nintendo’s Underappreciated Gift to the Wine Industry
The Japanese gaming giant, Nintendo, has just launched its new Switch 2 console. Fans across the world are eagerly lining up to buy it. Robert Joseph wonders whether the wine industry should be paying more attention.
Tequila Casa Azul has shifted production to a new distillery, La Roca, NOM 1646. The move, according to the company, is a step toward achieving the brand’s sustainability goals. La Roca distillery is operated by the Montes family, who also operate the Las Américas distillery, Casa Azul’s previous home. Production of Casa Azul has already begun at La Roca, with the first Tequilas produced there set to hit the market this summer. Casa Azul’s celebrity backers include the NFL’s Rob Gronkowski and Travis Kelce, actress Eiza González, and golfers Michelle Wie West and Brooks Koepka, among others.
Bourbon Fans, Meet Your New Favorite Pour: Eagle Rare 12
A winegrowing project between Frescobaldi and the Penal Institute on Gorgona, an island in the Tuscan Archipelago, has been helping to rehabilitate inmates for more than a decade. db can exclusively reveal that the agreement has now been extended until 2050.
One Risk Of White Wine You’ve Never Heard Of, Research Reveals
Many people believe wine is the “healthier” choice thanks to its antioxidant content, but a new study suggests that when it comes to cancer risk, neither red nor white wine gets a pass. And surprisingly, white wine may actually increase the risk of skin cancer, especially in women.
Tablas Creek Vineyard Becomes First U.S. Winery to Bottle All 14 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Grapes as Single-Varietal Wines
Tablas Creek Vineyard has announced the completion of a decades-long project: bottling all 14 traditional Châteauneuf-du-Pape grape varieties from the Château de Beaucastel collection as single-varietal wines.
Is organic wine really better for you? Here’s what the experts say
Organic wine may sound like the healthier choice, but does it live up to the hype? Industry experts weigh in on additives, sulphites, and whether it’s worth making the switch.
Treasury Wine Estates opens new low- and no-alcohol wine facility
Sarah Parkes, general manager of sales and marketing for TWE’s global premium division, said the technology at the site “has helped us solve the flavor puzzle”.
Can you pick a wine based on the animal on the label?
These days, it’s hard to find a bottle of wine that hasn’t been given five stars by someone or placed in some sort of awards category. But could the winemaker’s choice of animal picture tell us anything about the wine’s quality, value, or both?
The ‘Olympics of Beer’ Just Crowned Its Champions — and These Trends Are Clear
The World Beer Cup featured 8,375 entries from breweries across 37 countries, highlighting key trends in style, strength, and the growing role of cider.
Smaller wineries lead economic turnaround in the US
According to the 2025 Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) direct to consumer shipping report, small wineries are helping the US wine industry to bounce back. Roger Morris reports
Light Beer Continues To Reign In The US. Why Is It So Darn Popular?
There is no single reason that light beers have such a dominant hold on the American palate — at least not one that can be easily quantitatively pinned down.
Fizzled out: French winemaker risks prison over champagne fraud
Prosecutors in eastern France on Wednesday requested a winemaker accused of producing and selling fake champagne in an elaborate scam be sentenced to four years in prison, with three years of the term suspended.
Europe’s wine regions facing most severe climate impact, study finds
Europe’s wine regions have experienced the most significant climate shifts among global viticultural areas, according to a new study published in PLOS Climate.
Retired baseball legend David Ortiz has entered the spirits business with Ozama, a new rum brand distilled in the Dominican Republic. The brand is launching with three expressions—Blan co, Añejo, and Gran Añejo—all bottled at 40% abv and made from Dominican sugarcane. 2% of Ozama’s profits will be dedicated to cleaning up the rum’s namesake river and the surrounding communities. To launch the brand, Ortiz partnered with Drink2Success, led by industry veteran and former Avaline CEO Abbott Wolfe. Ozama’s three expressions retail between $30 and $45 a 700-ml. and are rolling out now in the Northeastern U.S. and Florida.
A Complete Guide to Zweigelt, Your New Favorite Summer Red Wine
This affordable Austrian grape makes fresh and fruit-forward red wines.
Diageo has expanded Smirnoff vodka with a new offering, Electric Guava. The 25% abv drink is made with guava and ginger flavorings. It carries a suggested price of $13 a 750-ml. and between $1 and $1.25 for a 50-ml. Smirnoff Electric Guava is available across the U.S. Last year, Smirnoff was down 6% to just under 8 million cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Is Kosmic Kitty Wines the Next Liquid Death?
Meet Kosmic Kitty Wines, the cosmic-cool new label from Castle Rock Winery that’s rewriting the rules of wine: playful, premium, and unapologetically bold.
How England is emerging as a source of fine white wine
Had you asked me a decade ago whether England was capable of making fine, age-worthy, barrel-influenced white wine, my response would probably have been to shake my head – but now, I’ll answer with a nod
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then it makes sense more New World wineries are creating bottles with designer label treatments. Rebecca Lo looks into the role of the label in telling a wine’s story.
Scientist claims you should only drink one glass of wine a YEAR
The human body can only safely consume one ‘large’ glass of wine every 12 months because it is too ‘toxic’, according to Professor David Nutt, a leading drug researcher at Imperial College London.
Heaven Hill has released Old Fitzgerald 7-Year-Old Bottled-in-Bond, a new permanent addition to the brand’s largely seasonal lineup of limited releases. The new whiskey is made from a mash of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley and, as a bonded whiskey, is bottled at 50% abv. The release carries a suggested price of $60 a 700-ml. and will be available across the U.S. To celebrate the launch, Heaven Hill will host a series of activations and partnerships.
This Wine Opener Removes the Fear From Popping a Bottle of Bubbly
Don’t be nervous about popping the cork ever again.
When considering the reasons for the declining demand for Champagne over the past two years, some blame price increases. So has this high-end fizz become too expensive?
Why You May See Kirkland Signature Products On Local Liquor Store Shelves
This unusual circumstance stems from alcohol monopolies. If you’ve seen a rogue Kirkland scotch on the shelves, chances are you live in a control state.
Wente Family Vineyards is debuting a permanent addition to the winery’s core portfolio, the 2024 Pacific Mist Pinot Grigio. Retailing at $18 a bottle, Pacific Mist is sourced from sustainable vineyards on California’s Central Coast, and follows other recent additions to the Wente range like Mount Diablo Highlands Red Blend and the Baily Hill Pinot Noir (both $20). Wente notes that super-premium California Pinot Grigio is up 21.7% in the last 52 weeks at retail, according to scan data from Circana.
Hail destroys large portion of vineyards in Jumilla
On the 10th of May, a massive hailstorm ripped through the Jumilla wine region, a ‘super autonomous’ denomination of origin in Spain spanning both Castilla-La Mancha and Murcia.
Now, a decade later, White has re-entered the wine book firmament with a much more down-to-earth offering. Her latest, Wine Confident, finds White’s voice relaxed, purposeful, focused.
As a legal case challenges what “100% agave” really means, producers and regulators face growing calls for greater transparency. Industry veteran Brent Hocking weighs in on the standards, semantics and future of premium tequila.
Craving A Great Wine On A Budget? Here’s What To Look For On The Label
You’re looking for a delicious wine. You walk into the store and head straight for the sections for countries that you know will have a terrific selection.
But if you want to make the most of it, knowing what to serve with red wine can make all the difference. The right food pairing doesn’t just taste better – it lifts the wine too.
Want to glug a glass of perfectly pink rosé in Provence or stockpile bottles of shiraz in the Rhône Valley? These are the country’s best spots for a sip or two
Gallo Winery practices threaten Fresno drinking water, regulators say
Central Valley water regulators want the world’s largest winery to stop using its wastewater on local crops — a decades-old waste management practice — because it’s threatening Fresno’s drinking water supply.
Why Mexican Beer Is Traditionally Served With A Slice Of Lime
Order yourself a great-tasting Mexican lager (say, a crisp Dos Equis, Victoria, or Bohemia) and odds are it’ll arrive with a wedge of lime perched on the rim.
Though the most dramatic changes wine undergoes occur during fermentation and élevage (the period between fermentation and bottling), wine remains dynamic until the moment of its consumption.
The “Napa Valley” Of Missouri Was The USA’s First Wine Region—So Why Haven’t You Heard Of It?
When we think of amazing US wine regions, we think of Napa Valley in California, the Columbia Valley in Oregon, or even the Napa Valley of the Rockies in Colorado. However, none of these is the original wine region of the US. In fact, that honor goes to a relatively unknown American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Missouri.
The Best Beers to Bring to a BBQ, According to 14 Pitmasters
The time has come to build your seasonal roster of excellent beers for picnics, barbecues, and other summertime gatherings, and to find out exactly which brews match up best with ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and other BBQ favorites,
The parent company of Jose Cuervo believes there is a “misconception” about the use of additives in the Tequila industry, claiming they are “not harmful”.
A trademark expert weighs in on recent Yellow Tail counterfeit operation
One of the targeted wine brands – and the one receiving the most media attention – is Yellow Tail. Casella Family Brands has since confirmed that the counterfeit issue was localised to independent stores and did not extend to any of the major UK supermarkets.
From The Chair: Are We Trying Too Hard To Explain Wine?
Since wine is an experiential product, wine writers have latitude to use personal insights and observations to create pieces that are impressionistic, opinionated and characterful.
Why popularity of big wine styles is the trade’s ‘elephant in the room’
The wine trade, led by wine writers, have been talking up lighter, fresher, low alcohol styles of wine in recent years – but is that what the public actually wants?
Wine vending machines land in Provence, stirring debate among French producers
Vineyards in southern France are trialling roadside wine vending machines – but the move is proving controversial in a country where personal service and tradition are key to wine culture.
Massachusetts has top ranked craft brewing, but the state’s favorite beer is more basic
States like Colorado and Oregon may be well known for their love of beer, but Massachusetts is home to the second best craft brewing company in the US, according to The Brewers Association.
Suntory Global Spirits has extended cocktail brand On the Rocks into canned cocktails with three new sparkling options. The trio—Sparkling Lime Margarita, Mango & Mint Mojito, and Cucumber & Lemongrass Mule—are at 10% abv and come in 355-ml. cans. Like all of On the Rocks’ cocktails, the new canned varieties are made with Suntory spirits brands, with the Margarita using Tres Generaciones Tequila, the Mojito using Cruzan rum, and the Mule using Effen vodka. The new On the Rocks cans are now available in 4-packs across the U.S. On the Rocks grew 7% to just under 800,000 cases in the U.S. last year, according to Impact Databank.
Is Your Local Wine Actually Local? It’s Not So Simple
Consumers don’t necessarily parse the provenance of grapes—or site of production—when they enter a winery, and it can be misleading when grapes are not locally sourced.
Spirit of Gallo has launched Lucky One Lemonade, the latest spirits-based RTD from the company. The 4.5% abv cocktail comes in four flavors—Original , Peach, Blueberry, and Raspberry—all at 100 calories per 355-ml can and available in individual flavor 4-packs ($11) and variety 8-packs ($20). The new brand is a collaboration with business personality Dave Portnoy and his dog, Miss Peaches, and the brand has pledged to raise $1 million for rescue dogs in the U.S. The brand is working with LifeLine Animal Project and Best Friends Animal Society as part of the “Our Pack Gives Back” program, running through September 1st. Lucky One Lemonade is now available across the U.S.
Alaska introduces cancer warnings to bars and liquor stores
Alaska will become the first US state to introduce signage with health warnings linking excessive alcohol consumption to colon and breast cancer.
Champagne could reduce risk of cardiac arrest, study suggests
The moderate consumption of white wine and Champagne could lower the risk of a sudden cardiac arrest, according to a new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology.
A new RTI study finds toxic “forever chemicals” in many beers, linking PFAS contamination to municipal water used in the brewing process and raising concerns about everyday exposure.
If you’re a devoted wine enthusiast who gets super-hyped at the chance to explore different wines from around the globe, then at some point, you’ve likely crossed paths with fortified ones.
Global wine consumption falls to six-decade low as inflation bites
World wine consumption fell 3.3% last year to the lowest in more than six decades, with inflation weighing on purchasing power, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine reported.
Factions in the Tequila industry are at loggerheads over the use of additives in the liquid as Mexican regulations prevent brands from labelling their products with the term, causing outcry among the smaller players.
The campaign is the latest endeavor by the founders of the “Come Over October” campaign created in 2024 by three wine industry professionals: wine writer Karen MacNeil, author of the Wine Bible,
Champagne is now embracing a new identity: that of a world-class, welcoming wine destination. As cellar doors open and luxury experiences unfold, both historic Maisons and passionate growers are redefining the region for modern wine lovers.
America’s struggling wine industry is getting crushed by global tariffs and Canada’s retaliation to them
Even if the tariffs were to be reversed tomorrow, one wine business leader said, it would take “at least a year, if not longer, for my industry to recover.”
Millennials Aren’t Killing the Wine Industry. They’re Changing It.
They are also powerful. With 83 million millennials in the U.S., and annual retail expenditures of $1.9 trillion, when they speak with their wallets, the wine industry should listen.
Inside the High-Tech Arms Race to Make the Coldest Martini
Making a cold martini and keeping it that way was once as easy as throwing half of it in a sidecar, a simple-yet-effective carafe that sits nestled in ice until it’s time to refill.
But tariffs don’t just affect wine sellers. Winemakers could face higher costs on bottles, since glass is mostly imported from China, as well as labels, corks, wooden stakes for vines and more.
RTD and spirits brand White Claw has launched ClawTails, a new line of cocktail-inspired malt-based seltzers. ClawTails are at 7% abv and come in four flavors: Strawberry Cosmo, Mango Margarita, Blackberry Mojito, and Tropical Mai Tai. The company notes that the new releases are made with no artificial sweeteners and are made with fruit juice. ClawTails are available in a variety 12-pack of 12-ounce cans as well as individual 19.2-ounce cans for the Strawberry Cosmo and Mango Margarita flavors
Are consumers ready to embrace AI-powered drinks picks?
44% of US consumers would trust artificial intelligence (AI) to choose a bottle of wine or spirits for their own personal enjoyment, according to a new study from alcohol e-commerce platform Drinks.
The Finnish Long Drink has released the Zero Sugar Variety Pack, the latest lower calorie option from the spirits-based RTD brand. The new 12-pack features three flavors—Citrus, Peach, and Pineapple—all at 5% abv and 99 calories per can. The Peach and Pineapple flavors are currently exclusively available in the 12-pack, which is now in retailers across the U.S. In addition, the brand is accompanying the launch with a new marketing tagline “Not a Seltzer” to help differentiate it from other RTDs. Last year, the Finnish Long Drink was at 2.7 million cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Why German beer is disappearing
Germany, historically revered for its brewing prowess, is seeing its beer reputation wane. db finds out why.
See how much your CT town made from ‘nip’ bottle sales in the last 6 months
Over the last six months, between Oct. 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025, 48.9 million nips were sold in Connecticut, totaling 13,000 gallons, enough to fill a standard, backyard, in-ground swimming pool.
Agave Boom Margaritas, a new line of wine-based RTD cocktails, have launched in the U.S. The brand is launching with eight flavors—Cucumber -Jalapeño, Lime, Mango-Chamoy, Passion Fruit, Piña-Coco, Watermelon, White Peach, and Strawberry—all at 13.9% abv and made from Agave wine. Agave Boom Margaritas are produced at Casa Maestri distillery and imported by Platinum Brands LLC. Each flavor is available in a 200-ml. plastic bottle that’s shaped like an agave piña.
Why Gen Z is drinking less alcohol
A report by Rabobank has shunned the narrative that Generation Z is consuming less alcohol because of health concerns linked to social media, calling it “greatly overblown”.
Freisa: Piedmont’s forgotten grape making a comeback
Long overshadowed by Nebbiolo, Freisa is reclaiming its place among Piedmont’s prized native grapes. With a bold personality and growing support from pioneering winemakers, this once-overlooked variety is drawing new attention both at home and abroad.
Which wine regions are finding success in India, and why?
As international brands set their sights on new horizons, Sonal Holland MW decodes the consumer trends and taste preferences of India’s fast-evolving wine market.
Ozempic Curbs Drinking—So What Does That Mean for the Alcohol Industry?
An estimated 15 million Americans are currently taking semaglutide weight loss drugs, which are proven to impact alcohol consumption. Could this be the latest threat to the beverage industry?
Jefferson’s Bourbon, part of the Pernod Ricard portfolio, has announced a new cask strength, limited edition whiskey. The 8-year-old Bourbon is bottled at 65% abv and carries a suggested price of $70 a 750-ml. Jefferson’s Reserve Cask Strength is rolling out now in limited quantities across the U.S. Last year, Jefferson’s was at 139,000 cases in the U.S., according to Impact Databank.
Top 10 style trends in Champagne
Following an extensive blind tasting for the Champagne Masters last month, I’ve have picked out my top 10 trends in Champagne style right now.
Lagers may not be as simple as you think, though, and the easy drinking brew is a popular beer variety that can be crafted in an American and Mexican style.
The industry body representing Japanese whisky has announced plans to register the spirit for geographical indication (GI) and reinforce labelling standards for the category to combat consumer “confusion”.
Italian Wine Podcast Special Report: “Is Prosecco Still America’s Darling? New Insights from Somm.ai”
Prosecco continues to tickle the American taste buds, holding strong as the preferred sparkling wine in restaurants across the U.S., according to a new market analysis from the Italian Wine Podcast in collaboration with Somm.ai, a leader in wine industry data and analytics.
Moisture is, famously, the essence of wetness, and, to further borrow a phrase, wetness is the essence of beer. So how the heck can some beer varieties be categorized as “dry”?
Why Food Tastes Better When You’ve Had A Little Booze
Anyone who drinks alcohol will swear that pasta doesn’t taste the same when it’s not accompanied with wine or that beer makes a burger that much more satisfying.
How Will Tariffs on Every Imported Bottle of Wine Impact U.S. Consumers?
President Trump’s global trade strategy means higher wine prices—10 percent for New Zealand, 20 percent for Italy, France and Spain, 30 percent for South Africa—at a time when the industry is already hurting
How A Classic British Cocktail Became A New Orleans Icon
As we move into the spring season, many Southern areas are already experiencing warm weather conditions that will only get hotter as we head into summer.
These six regions in Texas, Washington, and California—including one AVA that has already been approved—have exciting potential for the U.S. wine industry
Great Wine Capitals Launches New E-Book Showcasing Global Excellence in Wine Tourism
This engaging resource highlights award-winning wine tourism practices, inspiring case studies, and insights from the 12 prestigious wine regions that make up the Network
A new wine brand linked to the Archie Comics franchise, Archie Wine Collection, is debuting in the U.S. Initially including a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc ($23) and a red blend from southwestern France’s Roussillon ($25), the portfolio will also eventually include a domestic red blend, a Cabernet, and a Prosecco as well. Industry veteran David Biggar, who’s leading the launch, is aiming for the Archie brand to be in 40 states within a year, and says production can be ramped up quickly to meet demand. While the Archie wines are targeted at Gen Z and millennial consumers, Biggar adds that they’re expected to appeal widely across the demographic spectrum.
Is Orange Wine the Same as Skin Contact Wine?
The wine terms are used interchangeably but are they the same?
U.S. Wines Priced Out: China’s New Tariffs Could End $50M Trade
The move threatens to effectively wipe out the nearly US$50 million U.S. wine trade with China, as the tax burden on American wines rockets to a staggering 218.91%.
Colorado to stop issuing new licenses for grocery stores to sell hard alcohol after governor reluctantly signs bill
The bill is truly a victory for independent retail liquor stores and the craft beverage industry and the economy it supports from the farm to the table
It’s a question vexing booze boardrooms: is the younger generation turning away from alcohol? If so, is it a permanent trend or will “normal” patterns eventually re-establish themselves?
J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon Achieves Certified California Sustainable Designation
. Lohr Vineyards & Wines surpasses sustainability milestone with 36 J. Lohr wines, totaling more than 20 million bottles that feature the Certified California Sustainable seal
A new meta-analysis of human intervention studies has reinforced the argument that moderate alcohol consumption plays a beneficial role in cardiovascular health.
Alsace is a land of precision and poetry—where German structure meets French soul, and where the wines, like the people, are shaped by both discipline and exuberance.
Brown-Forman has launched Jack & Coca-Cola Vanilla, the newest offshoot of the brand’s line of RTDs. It’s exclusively available in a new Flavors Pack, a 6-pack in which it’s paired with two cans each of the original and Jack & Coca-Cola Cherry. All three are at 7% abv and the suggested retail price of the Flavors Pack is $18 a 6-pack. Last year, Jack Daniel’s RTDs (excluding the malt-based Country Cocktails) were down 13% to 902,000 cases according to Impact Databank.
Zing Zang creates Dill Pickle Bloody Mary mixer
Dill Pickle is the first flavour Chicago-based brand Zing Zang has launched for its Bloody Mary mixer range.
Regional power: Extended geographical mentions on labels
Subzones and single vineyard names on wine labels may mark out an elite, and often more expensive, class of wines but with important winemaking regions using more general identifiers, how do extended geographical mentions impact how a wine is perceived? Jacopo Mazzeo explores.
Contrary to WHO, recent medical research shows that wine is safe for cancer
I thought that it might be interesting to gather together references to publications that refute these claims, or at least suggest that they are exaggerated; and that is what I have done here and in the next post.
Why Vatican City is the world’s top wine importer per capita
Tucked behind the colonnades of St Peter’s Basilica lies the world’s most surprising wine powerhouse. With sacred rites, papal palates and duty-free Prosecco all in the mix, James Bayley investigates how Vatican City became the globe’s top wine importer per capita – and why Italy’s grip on its cellar remains unshaken.
Ozempic may reduce alcohol craving and consumption, new study finds
A new clinical trial suggests that semaglutide — the active ingredient in the widely used drugs Ozempic and Wegovy — may help reduce alcohol consumption and cravings in people with alcohol use disorder.
Why the wine rarely vanishes – the truth about cooking with alcohol
It is a claim often whispered across chopping boards and tasting menus alike – don’t worry, the alcohol all cooks off. But as with so many culinary myths, this one dissolves under scrutiny.
Traditional wine rituals are falling by the wayside as Gen Z embraces convenience over ceremony. With corkscrews and decanters gathering dust, is this the end of wine’s romance – or the start of a new era?
All of these elixirs are renowned for their digestive qualities, supposedly soothing the stomach after a feast. But are these benefits real? Or just romantic?
83% OF CRAFT BEER FANS WANT BEER SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO THEIR DOORS
Nearly eight out of 10 (81%) of regular craft beer drinkers have tried a beer while traveling that they wish they could purchase but it’s not available near their home.
Jim Beam is extending its flavor lineup with a Pineapple variant. A blend of pineapple flavor with Kentucky Straight Bourbon, the new entry is Beam’s first flavor launch in four years and is recommended to be served with lemon-lime soda or in a Pica y Piña with lime juice, simple syrup, jalapeños, and a tajin rim. Jim Beam Pineapple (32.5% abv) is now available nationwide at select retailers for a suggested retail price of $20 per 750-ml. bottle. Jim Beam had U.S. volume of 5.5 million cases last year, including flavors but excluding RTDs.
Dark Vs White Rum: What’s The Difference?
Although both white and dark rum are made from sugarcane, they can possess vastly different flavor profiles and nuances.
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 320 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Unveiling Perfection: Napa’s New Icon with Jayson Hu From a world-class collector to a visionary creator, Jayson Hu is redefining the pinnacle of Napa Valley luxury. In this episode, Kim and Mark sit down with […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 319 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Wine Digital Marketing With Molly Bossardt In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Molly Bossardt of Bread & Butter Digital Marketing to pull back the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 318 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle Cheers, wine lovers! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), your hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly multi-talented […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 317 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz In this landmark episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with a true titan of the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 316 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with a true powerhouse of the industry: Meridith May. As the […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 315 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sustainability with Sandra Taylor In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark dive deep into the world of sustainable viticulture with special guest Sandra Taylor. As the author of […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 314 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Beth and Patrick Downing, the visionary owners of Franklin, Massachusetts’ own […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 313 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik Ever feel like you need a PhD and a Rosetta Stone just to pick a decent bottle of Cabernet? You aren’t alone. This week on The Wonderful World […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 312 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Parenting, Wine, and Playful Rhymes 🍷 Grab a glass and settle in! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with the witty and insightful Danielle Frank, author […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 311 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors In this episode, Kim and Mark dive into the art of aeration with Michael Fors, a Massachusetts-based wine inventor and the creator of The Liquid Jazz Experience. […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 310 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Uncorking a New Way to Learn with Mistral Wine Cards In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with Seth Cysewski, the visionary founder and inventor of Mistral […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 309 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding Non-Alcoholic Wine with Rachel Martin Get ready for groundbreaking wine education on The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as Kim and Mark host Rachel Martin, the visionary Founder and CEO of Oceano Wines ( […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 308 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Talking Whiskey With Colonel Craig Duncan Grab a glass 🥃 and join us for a very special episode as Kim and Mark take their first deep dive into the world of whiskey! We're thrilled to […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 307 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Wine Social Media Star Kelly Axelrad Dive into a fascinating episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) as hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the powerhouse wine entrepreneur and social media superstar, Kelly […]
The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 306 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! A Spirited Sip with a Wine Maverick Raymond Blake Join hosts Kim and Mark on as they uncork a fantastic conversation with acclaimed Irish wine author, Raymond Blake. In this spirited episode, Raymond takes us […]
