Wine Source UK adds Champagne Gosset to its portfolio

Wine Source UK has added Champagne Gosset to its portfolio.

Fuller’s champions English fizz in own pubs

Fuller’s has replaced its Champagne house pour with English sparkling wine throughout its own pubs following a ‘highly successful’ trial.

Harpers on tour: Champagne buyers trip 2017

Four wine buyers descended on Champagne last month and with their expertise ranging from a Michelin-starred restaurant to independent merchants to drinks distributors, the insight and expectations of Champagne were unique to each buyer. Starting with a trip to Épernay via Montagne de Reims and then south to the Aube, the visits were just as varied as the buyers. Jane Parkinson reports

Champagne Warehouse sets up dedicated on-trade and indies arm

Champagne Warehouse has launched a dedicated arm to push the on-trade, wholesales and indies side of the business.

Through the virtual looking glass with Nicolas Feuillatte

Popping on a pair of virtual reality eye-goggles isn’t what I’m used to doing before a vertical tasting.

Championing Grower Champagnes

The Good Wine Shop’s second annual Grower Champagne Month this June saw a swathe events dedicated to celebrating these artisanal scale wines. Co-founder Derek Morrison explains why they do it, what it’s all about and how he is looking to grow this initiative for next year.

Beyond Non-Vintage

Do consumers understand the full extent of Champagne’s diversity? Jo Gilbert investigates

Nicolas Feuillatte blames global volume dip on poor UK performance

Nicolas Feuillatte has reported a 4% dip in global volume sales driven by the general UK market decline for Champagne.

Champagne Lanson expands with first organic fizz

Champagne Lanson is introducing its first certified organic Champagne at The Wimbledon Championships 2017.

Champagne Jayne victorious against Champagne authority

Wine writer and educator Jayne Powell has won a protracted five-year legal battle to use the moniker “Champagne Jayne” as her official trademark.

New MD at Nicolas Feuillatte

The world’s third biggest Champagne brand has appointed a new managing director to lead the company into the future.

Champagne Castelnau reveals contemporary look

Castelnau has received a contemporary makeover as part of e new strategy to widen its appeal.

UK Champagne sales flow down the drain

UK Champagne sales have been hit by the nation's love of more affordable Prosecco alongside the Brexit-caused drop in the value of the pound.

Sales of fizz breaks Christmas barrier of 45 million bottles for first time

Sales of sparkling set yet another benchmark in the run up to Christmas, with sparkler-hungry Brits quaffing 10% more than usual in the off-trade and 37% in the on-trade. 

Moët UK's Sommelier Of The Year opens for entries

Moët & Chandon's Sommelier of the Year competition has returned for another year, once again looking to bestow the accolade on a shining star of the UK on-trade.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

CAA chairman dismisses EU fears of 'English Champagne' influx post-Brexit

The chairman of the Champagne Agents' Association has hit back at claims that 'English Champagne' could flood into the continent following the UK's departure from the EU.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

Sparkling to be worst affected by triple whammy of price pressures

It's Valentine's Day, which means consumers will be spurring on the nation's love of sparkling wine by heading to fizz shelves today.

Own-brand Prosecco grows 79% year-on-year at Lidl

Sky-high sales of Prosecco helped Dry January to get off to a damp start in 2017. 

Battle of the Bubbles

For decades, the very mention of the word Champagne conjured up almost mystical properties for UK consumers in the market for premium sparkling wine.

Export of French Crémant to British shores increased 53% in volume and 61% by value in 2016

Prosecco's sparkling success finally appears to be opening doors for other fizz categories

Billecart-Salmon invests in terroir

Ahead of its 200^th anniversary next year, Champagne Billecart-Salmon has outlined ambitious plans to double its vineyard ownership in the next 10 to 20 years

The Champagne Academy appoints new Chairman

The academy which aims to find "Champagne's future stars" and is operated by top Champagne houses has appointed a new chairman.

Save the date circulated for possible return of Annual Champagne Tasting

The Annual Champagne Tasting could be returning to London following the divisive decision made last year not to hold the event in 2017.

Lanson inks new partnershipship with The 02

Champagne Lanson, one of the UK's leading Champagne brands, has agreed a five-year sponsorship deal with London's O2 venue.

Majestic Retail has "biggest ever Christmas" during bumper trading period

Sales of sparkling and gin helped to put a skip back into Majestic's step over the Christmas period with total group sales up 15.3% compared to the previous year.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

Champagne leaves Prosecco in the dust as the New Year wine of choice

The unfailing success of Prosecco encountered a roadblock on New Years Eve as UK consumers ditched Italian fizz in favour of Champagne.

Cocktail group reports record festive trading

Early reports show that the hospitality industry received a welcome boost over the Christmas period thanks in part to December 23, 24 and 25 falling over the weekend.

English fizz beats Champagne to become official Boat Race partner

Leading English winery Chapel Down has become an official partner of the annual Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, replacing Champagne Bollinger.

A taste for fizz

Champagne and Britain are inextricably linked. As the region's longest-standing, largest export market, hovering steadily around the 33 million bottle mark every year, it is surprising that the sound of popping corks does not drown out all other noise.

Prosecco bursts Champagne's bubble with faster sales growth across Europe

Sales of Prosecco in the UK continue to rise faster than Champagne despite the Champagne sector's attempts to compete by dropping prices.

Growers Champagne offering an alternative to Prosecco this Christmas, says Virgin Wines

Grower Champagnes having been sparking consumer interest at Virgin Wines, where wine buyers are expecting sales to flourish this Christmas.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

Festive fizz

Champagne may be facing a bumpy time in the UK but, as Christmas approaches, all signs are that sparkling wines without the famous French appellation attached to their label are in rude health and many retailers are pinning their hopes on bumper fizz sales this festive season.

Usain Bolt becomes "CEO" of top Champagne house

Usain Bolt has swapped winning for wines in a new partnership with one of France's largest Champagne producers.

How wine is adapting to suit a new generation

With technology opening up new possibilities, the trade is finding new ways of not only engaging with younger consumers but making them part of their business models too.

First M&S listing for Champagne Lanson

Marks & Spencer is to list Champagne Lanson for the first time with its award-winning Extra Age Brut NV gift box.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

Wines and spirits continue to drive growth for LVMH amid luxury market slowdown

The wine and spirits division represented the second highest growth area for LVMH in its sales so far this year, with organic growth up 7%.

Champagne harvest "isn't all doom and gloom", says Bollinger

Champagne has had its fair share of challenges so far this year, with a slew of bad weather meaning that crop loss is as severe in some parts - as is the case in he Aube - according to Champagne Taittinger.

New British Champagne house claims to offer Champagne for the digital age

A British-based holding company is claiming to be the first major prospective champagne house to open since Nicholas Feuillatte in 1972.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

National Champagne Week a welcome boost for struggling category

The UK has been popping bubbly this week for National Champagne Week - a much needed boost for the category which has seen a slow down in growth over the past year.

Guy Woodward: Seven things I hate about the wine trade

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

Unprecedented weather has had "major impact" on Champagne economy

Frost, mildew and scalding weather in 2016 has had a "major impact" on Champagne, accounting for as much as 80% crop losses in one area before the harvest even began.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

English sparkling wine had its best summer yet, says Vivino

English sparkling wine hit an all time high in the UK this summer, according to wine app, Vivino.

National Champagne Week aiming to improve Champagne's approachability

National Champagne Week returns for the fourth time next month, aiming to bring the ever popular French fizz to a new audience.

Outrage as the London Annual Champagne Tasting is cancelled

The committee which organises the annual London event has announced that it will not be holding this year's tasting - and doesn't know when or if it will return to the UK.

French wine production expected to drop 8% for 2016 due to poor spring weather

French wine production is expected to decline 8% for the 2016 harvest following the damaging hailstorms and spring frost which hit several different areas across the country according to the French Minister of Agriculture Stéphane Le Foll.

Moët & Chandon release wines from "cooler" 2008 vintage

Moët & Chandon has released its Grand Vintage Blanc and Grand Vintage Rosé from the 2008 vintage.

IWC 2016 Results: 2016 Champion wine winners

Last night at the annual International Wine Challenge awards dinner in London, five wines were crowned Champions and one wine took home the Champion of Champions award, recognised as some of the top gongs in the industry.

Champagne de Castelnau undergoes image revamp

Champagne de Castelnau is heading in a new ultra modern direction for its centenary with the launch of its first prestige cuvée.

Nicolas Feuillatte launches contemporary communication strategy

A major marketing shake up was unveiled at Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte's 40^th anniversary bash in Paris on 7 June

Analysis: Is there a gap between Prosecco and Champagne?

Sparkling wine sales continue to boom, but it's a lopsided affair.  Is there a gap in the void between Prosecco and Champagne?

Nicolas Feuillatte partners with Harpers in exciting new 'Other Side of Life' competition

New intitaitive asks "what do you do when not immersed in the trade?" with trip for two to Nicolas Feuillatte on offer.

Champagne de Castelnau celebrates centenary with new launch

Champagne de Castelnau is celebrating its 100^th anniversary this year with the launch of its first prestige cuvée

Taittinger gastronomy competition reaches the big 50

Champagne Taittinger is celebrating the 50th anniversary of their renowned Taittinger Prix Culinaire International.

Sales are up at Nicolas Feuillatte but export volume down due to a "fiercely competitive" UK market

Top Champagne house Centre Vinicole - Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte (CV-CNF) has released its sales figures for last year which show growth of 2% from 2014 and 2015 - although exports are down.

Kingscote taking a leaf out of Champagne's book for first fizz

A Sussex winery is gearing up to launch its first sparkling wine - drawing heavily from France's most famous sparkling wine region.

Moët & Chandon launches "pink partner" to its Blanc Ice Impérial NV

Moët & Chandon is launching its Moët Ice Impérial Rosé NV, believed to be the first ever Rosé Champagne to be served over ice.

The Champagne Academy celebrates 60 years and unveils its 2016 course programme

Armit Wines wins rights to grower champagne agency

Armit Wines has become the exclusive UK agent for Champagne Geoffroy, hoping to capitalise on boosted sales of growers' champagne.

English sparkling wine goes head to head with Champagne in Paris

The Wine and Spirits Trade Association put English sparkling wine up against Champagne in a blind tasting in Paris.

LVMH Q1 miss expectations, but wine & spirits division shows growth

Luxury conglomerate LVMH first quarter results, which were released on Monday, missed analysts growth expectations, but the company's wine and spirits division Moët Hennessy did show sales growth of 4%.

Thiénot Bordeaux-Champagne taps Dagley for UK commercial role

Thiénot Bordeaux-Champagne has appointed ex-Majestic buyer, Nick Dagley as its new commercial director for the UK and Ireland.

Champagne Gosset announces new non-vintage 20th century cuvée

Champagne Gosset announced the release of a new cuvée at a launch in Paris last night.

Champagne Ruinart unveils 2016 sommelier Challenge

Champagne Ruinart has announced the details of its Ruinart Challenge 2016, aimed at identifying the most talented young sommeliers from around the world.

Champagne's battle for the top spot

It's no secret that sparkling wine sales have been a massive success story in the UK market of late

Q&A: Bernadette Knight, Armand de Brignac

Launched in 2006 by historic house Cattier, the success of Armand de Brignac was largely built on its association with celebrities like Jay Z, who purchased the brand from Cattier in 2014. Yet, de Brignac's chief marketing officer insists that the wine's quality has chiefly contributed to the brand's success

UK retains Champagne export crown as sales return to growth

The UK continued its unbroken reign as the world's largest Champagne export market in 2015, according to figures released today by the Comité Champagne.

Taking a break from the mainstream

It's often said that Champagne sales are a pretty accurate economic barometer, their fluctuations closely matching the financial health of the nation, fast charting out the highs and lows of boom and bust.

Champagne de Castelnau unveils limited release Blanc de Blancs Vintage 2003

Champagne de Castelnau is to release a rare Blanc de Blancs from the challenging 2003 vintage.

Bruno Paillard launches 2008 vintage in UK market

The UK is the first international market to feature the 2008 "Assemblage" Champagne from Reims-based Champagne house Bruno Paillard.

Weak euro offsets ongoing slide in French wine and spirits exports

The ongoing weakness of the euro in the global currency markets has proved a boon for makers of wine and spirits in France, according to figures released by the Fédération des Exportateurs de Vins et Spiritueux de France.

Lanson tops UK Rosé Champagne sales

Lanson's Rosé Champagne was the number one best-selling wine in its category in 2015, according to the latest figures from data analysts Nielsen.

Counterfeit Champagne seizure a warning to industry, brand expert says

Italian police have seized some 9,000 bottles of counterfeit Moët & Chandon Champagne near Padova in northern Italy.

Ruinart highlights support of contemporary art with London exhibition

Champagne house Ruinart will be showcasing six recent artist collaborations at its inaugural Lighthouse exhibition next month.

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Insight: Frédéric Panaïotis, chef de caves at Champagne Ruinart, explores the technical side of Ruinart's famous style

Frédéric Panaïotis, chef de caves at Champagne Ruinart, explores the history of how Champagne Ruinart's famous house style came to be and the decades it took to develop it.

Analysis: Champagne battles for the top spot

In an ultra-competitive market within the buoyant category of sparkling wine, the world's most established and classic fizz tenaciously holds on to its market share. Anne Krebiehl MW reports

Matthew Clark adds Champagne Doyard to Wines of Distinction

On-trade distributor Matthew Clark has added Champagne Doyard to its premium Wines of Distinction portfolio

Roberson culls Grand Marques from online list

Roberson Wine is to delist the major Champagnes brands from its website.

Nicolas Feuillatte wines Asda listing for Brut Rosé

Champagne house Nicolas Feuillatte has cemented its strong position in the UK off-trade with a listing for its Brut Rosé in Asda.

Rapeneau family deal brings first Champagne to Off Piste range

The Rapeneau family has appointed Cheltenham-based Off Piste Wines to distribute its Charles de Cazanove range of Champagnes in the UK off trade.

Analysis: Greatest Champagne vintage for 70 years?

Geoffery Dean gets the inside scoop on this year's harvest from some of the iconic Champagne houses

Lanson releases limited edition Noble Cuvée Blanc de Blancs 2000

House of Lanson is to make its award-winning Noble Cuvée Blanc de Blancs 2000 available in the UK.

Geoffrey Dean weighs in on Veuve Clicquot's latest release the La Grande Dame 2006

While the 2006 vintage of Veuve Clicquot's La Grande Dame does not sing quite like its much lauded 2002 counterpart, which had better structure and more depth, the latest release is another very impressive offering from the celebrated Champagne house

Veuve Clicquot's Demarville reveals 2006 vintage La Grande Dame

Yesterday saw the launch of the 2006 vintage of Veuve Clicquot's prestige cuvée, La Grande Dame 2006.

LMVH drinks division rebounds with major third-quarter growth

Strong quarterly growth in the wine and spirits division has helped push luxury goods group LVMH to revenues of €25.3 billion for the first nine months of the year, according to figures released today.

Gosset releases 2006 vintage through Louis Latour Agencies

Champagne Gosset has launched its latest vintage, Grand Millésime 2006.

Björk teams up with video artist for limited edition Dom Pérignon vintage pack design

Pop singer Björk and video artist Chris Cunningham have collaborated on a pack design for Dom Pérignon Champagne.

Prestige Champagne cuvée from Taittinger gets UK release

Taittinger is releasing its 2006 vintage Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut this month.

Sparkling wine continues to fizz with on-trade sales up by more than half in a year

Sparkling wine is the star performer in the drinks trade with the value of on-trade sales up by more than half in the year to July 7, according to Nielsen figures in the third quarter market report from the Wine & Spirit Trade Association.

Gonzalez Byass wraps up three prestige Deutz Champagnes in gift pack

Gonzalez Byass UK has launched a Champagne Deutz gift pack featuring three fizzes from the 2008 vintage.

Luxury cuvée matured in steel, wood and glass released by Möet

Moët & Chandon is to release a prestige cuvée called MCIII in October.

Counterfeit alcohol worth £30k seized at Notting Hill Carnival

The Metropolitan Police says officers seized counterfeit and "overproof" alcohol with a street value of around £30,000 at this year's Notting Hill Carnival in west London.

Spar adds to wine range and changes to EDLP model for exclusive Champagne

Spar is to move its Marquis Belrive Champagne to an everyday low pricing model.

Hedonism to offer collection of rare Dom Pérignon vintages

Luxury London retailer Hedonism Wines is to open a cellar devoted to rare vintages of Dom Pérignon Champagne.

Champagne provides some fizz for Pernod Ricard as annual sales nudge ahead by 2%

Champagne and Irish whiskey were among the main drivers of global growth for Pernod Ricard in 2014/15, though the spirits giant turned in only a modest overall sales increase of 2%. The company described the performance as "solid".

Model Karembeu joins up with Lanson's Tsarine to launch Champagne

Fashion model Adriana Karembeu has put her name to a new Champagne in the Lanson International portfolio.

Jascots launches on-trade exclusive Champagne

On-trade supplier Jascots Wine Merchants has launched its own Champagne brand.

Prosecco up 72% in off-trade to overtake Champagne sales by value

British consumers spent more on Champagne than prosecco in the last year.

On-trade venues line up programme of events to celebrate National Champagne Week

Nineteen on-trade venues have signed up for National Champagne Week which runs from October 1-7.

Gosset and Frapin leave McKinley Vintners for Louis Latour Agencies

Louis Latour Agencies has poached both Champagne Gosset and Cognac Frapin from McKinley Vintners. The two prestigious brands - both owned by family group Renaud Cointreau - joined the Latour portfolio on 1 August 2015.

Jacquart looks to Gonzalez to drive UK profile and sales

Champagne Jacquart has appointed Diane Gonzalez as its new UK business development manager.

Insights: The increasing commonality of prestige Champagne

James Lawrence examines the increasing commonality of the de luxe and vintage Champagne segment.

Champagne Lanson has a 'perfect start' to summer campaign

Champagne Lanson's 'The Perfect Start' programme of sponsorship throughout the British summer is already bearing fruit.

Champagne & Fromage bistro and shop concept expands with third London site

Bistro and retail deli concept Champagne & Fromage has opened its third site in London.

Multi-vintage Lallier Champagne makes UK debut through Boutinot

Champagne Lallier has released the first cuvée in its Série R collection of multi-vintage NV Champagnes through Boutinot in the UK.

Q&A: Julie Campos takes the helm of Nicolas Feuillatte

It's been six months since Julie Campos took the helm at Nicolas Feuillatte. Erin Smith caught up with her to find out how she plans to shake up the status quo for the iconic Champagne brand

Jay-Z's Ace of Spades Champagne range releases two new labels

Two new expressions of the cult Champagne brand owned by rap star Jay-Z have been released in the UK.

Rosé up 43% and Champagne 'strong' as summer sun brings cheer to Waitrose drinks sales

Recent warm weather in parts of the UK has seen sales of some wines and spirits soar at Waitrose.

Taittinger extends links with performing arts through RADA sponsorship

Champagne Taittinger has signed up to be the official Champagne partner of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art for its major fundraising events over the next year.

Glenfiddich and Piper-Heidsieck supplier wins rugby World Cup deal

William Grant has been named as the official spirits and Champagne provider to this autumn's Rugby World Cup.

Lanson Champagne year end results down slightly, but looks to expand globally

Lanson Champagne's year end financial results saw revenue and profit slide for the year, but with renewed investment in the brand, building inventory stocks and expanding internationally, Paul Beavis told harpers.co.uk at Vinexpo, he is optimistic about the future of the brand.

Bruno Paillard Champagne seeks clarity with pack revamp

Champagne house Bruno Paillard has redesigned the packaging for its range including putting its Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs into clear glass for the first time.

Champagne Lanson to release its annual limited edition 'Wimbledon' bottle

Champagne Lanson is set to release what has become a bit of a tradition - it's annual limited edition Wimbledon bottle.

Consumer perception of Prosecco is improving, according to new Wine Intelligence report

According to a new Wine Intelligence report released today, 95% of consumers that drink Prosecco see it as 'very good or good value for money.'

Dom Pérignon to start exclusive tasting tours next month

Champagne house Dom Pérignon is opening its vineyards and cellar to allow tours for the first time next month - for €600 a pop.

Champagne Jacquart doubles marketing in UK to boost on-trade visibility

Champagne Jacquart had doubled its marketing spend in the UK as after launching a new marketing campaign targeting consumers in London.

Moët launches annual sommelier of the year competition

Moët has launched its annual Moët Sommelier of the Year competition.

Has the bubble burst on sparkling wine?

Online sales of sparkling wines have fallen for the first time, prompting concern that the bubble on sparkling wine may be in danger of bursting.

New Zealand wine exports up, as premium grows in the UK

New Zealand's wine industry has seen exports grow 8.2% in the last year, hitting a record NZ$1.37 billion.

Champagne Jayne supporters launch fundraising effort to pay legal fees

Supporters of Jayne Powell, better known as Champagne Jayne, have started a fundraising effort to help pay her legal fees in her on-going legal dispute with the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC).

Moet launches pop-up Champagne academy in London

Moët & Chandon is launching a pop-up Champagne school on London's Southbank in order to show consumers how the premium French fizz differs from other sparkling wines.

Virgin Wines sees festive sales boost of £10m

Online wine retailer Virgin Wines saw like-for-like sales jump 20% over the festive period, accounting for an extra £10 million - driven by a stellar performance from fizz.

Drinks producers and retailers 'get personal' for Valentine's Day

Wine and spirits retailers and producers are looking to cash in on love this Valentine's Day with a host of personalised and quirky products alongside the more straightforward deals.  

Champagne celebrates return to growth as sales hit €4.5 billion

Champagne shipments grew 1% by volume in 2014, with sales expected to exceed 307 million bottles and hit €4.5 billion.

On-trade supplier Matthew Clark toasts bumper December as sales top £100m

On-trade drinks supplier Matthew Clark says December was its most successful month ever as sales broke the £100 million mark, as customers plumped for top-end wines and Champagnes.

Sparkling wine Luc Belaire gets glow-in-the-dark label

Sovereign Brands is launching a limited edition sparkling rosé wine under its Luc Belaire label which will have a glow-in-the-dark label activated via a power button.

Comité Champagne under attack for its "vindictive" legal dispute against Champagne Jayne

Guy Woodward, Harpers columnist and former Decanter editor, has attacked  the Comité Champagne today for its on-going legal battle against freelance broadcaster and educator, Jayne Powell, over the use of her "Champagne Jayne" monicker.

Prosecco sales rocket while still wine lags

Off-trade alcohol sales have risen 2.4% to £14 billion, with volumes up 0.8% - and Italian sparkler Prosecco has seen the most stunning increase of all, with values up 55% throughout 2014.

Sparkling wine is success story of 2014, as still wine sales fall, says WSTA report

Wine sales fell 3% in the off-trade in 2014, and 2% in the on-trade - but sparkling wines are still in the ascendancy, says the latest market report from the Wine & Spirits Trade Association.

Prosecco dominates festive fizz sales at major retailers

Sales of Prosecco are fizzing across the major retailers in the run-up to Christmas, with Tesco predicting one in three bottles of sparkling wine sold this year will be the Italian favourite.

Christmas Report: Champagne still a staple at any Christmas table

When it comes to celebrating in the Champagne category it pays to have a story, to be different and to stand out from the competition.

Pol Roger Portfolio to distribute Kilchoman whiskies

Islay distillery Kilchoman has signed a deal with the family-run Pol Roger Champagne to distribute its range of single malt whiskies.

Krug releases three Grande Cuvées in special limited edition ID case

Fans of Krug Champagne can splash out this Christmas on a limited edition special gift box set that includes three bottles of Krug Grande Cuvée each with a different story behind the blend.

It's all about the bubbles: from one rapper to another

Bubbles have long been beloved by the rich and famous. And that love in turn helps to spread the love more widely and boom! you've got a stellar success, says the Claret Pimpernel.

Naked Wines' angels recruit top Champagne maker JP Moulin

Naked Wines' angels have raised £500,000 to allow Jean Phillippe Moulin, former Ruinart, Mumm and Baron de Rothschild winemaker, to launch his own Champagne line.

Virgin Wines wants to be Interflora of wine gifting

Online wine retailer Virgin Wines is looking to "own" the wine gifts market with its new gifting service which includes options from £20 to £150.

Champagne Canard-Duchêne sees volumes grow 2.54%

Champagne Canard-Duchêne has seen its sales volumes grow 2.54% for the six months to July 2014, shipping almost 1.7 million bottles in that time.

Sparkling wine sales up 15% in last year, says Kantar

Sparkling wine is the fastest-growing alcohol in Great Britain, with sales up by 15% to £541 million in the past year in the off-trade, according to figures from Kantar Worldpanel.

Moët & Chandon joins Europe's celebrations at the Ryder Cup

Europe's victory in this weekend's Ryder Cup brought smiles not only to golf fans across the continent, but to the marketing team at Moët & Chandon whose sponsorship of the event resulted in priceless images of the winning team celebrating with its Champagne appearing in the international press around the world.

Francoise Peretti of the UK's Champagne Bureau on the region's 2014 harvest

Peretti tells Harpers.co.uk this year's Champagne harvest is "textbook" so far, with high quality grapes that could lead to a vintage year.

Consumer confidence rises despite drop in wine and spirits sales says WSTA

There are further signs that the economy is recovering and consumer confidence is returning despite a fall in wine and spirits sales, according to the latest market report issued by the Wine & Spirit Trade Association.

Top Champagne brands buck decline as sales grow 9%

The top eight Champagne brands are bucking falling sales in the off-trade, as collective sales have grown by 9% in the last year.

Circle 360 plans to expand its shopping centre Champagne bar concept to up to 20 UK sites

Champagne and cocktail bar concept Circle 360 is planning to have 15 to 20 UK sites by the end of 2015, with its first international outlets also in the pipeline.

Jeremy Rockett leaves González Byass GB after 10 years

González Byass GB marketing director Jeremy Rockett has left the business after 10 years of service.

Price comparison site Bring A Bottle pinpoints cheapest times to buy major drinks brands

Customers should be buying and stockpiling lager in June and July, and Champagne at Christmas, according to new data from Bring A Bottle which pinpoints exactly when the biggest promotions start across a range of top-selling brands.

Major wine companies should not pin their futures on China, warns Krug chief

The wine world needs to let go of its obsession with China, and stop believing that the market can solve all its problems, according to Margareth Henriquez., chief executive of Krug, the top branded Champagne house.

Big discounts expected on Champagne this Christmas

Champagne agents expect big discounts at UK supermarkets this Christmas, thanks to weak demand for the sparkling wine in its home country.

Total World Cup drinks sales reach £1.1billion despite fading interest in final weeks

Final drinks sales for the World Cup reveal that overall beers, wines and spirits were up by £15.1 million for the five weeks of the tournament to top £1.1 billion.

No sign of slowdown in sparkling wine growth

Sparkling wine sales are showing no signs of slowing down - volumes rocketed 20% in the second quarter of 2014.

Tour de France celebrates with Champagne de Castelnau

As parts of the UK brace themselves for the start of the gruelling Tour de France cycle race that starts in Yorkshire on July 5, Champagne de Castelnau has introduced this very appropriate limited edition Champagne.

Britain continues to drink through the World Cup despite England's exit

England may have crashed out of the World Cup but the nation is continuing to drink through it, according to the latest figures released by the Wilson Drinks Report.

Douglas Blyde compares the culinary and wine delights of the Fat Duck and Fera at Claridge's

Occurring within days, I was lucky enough to experience arguably two of England's finest chefs calibrate dishes to complement complex ferment from noble estates. These were served in the presence of two of the trade's most celebrated raconteurs.

Kathrine Larsen wins UK Sommelier of the Year 2014

Kathrine Larsen MS has become the Academy of Food & Wine Service's Moët UK Sommelier of the Year 2014 following an intense final at London's Mandarin Oriental Hotel last week.

The week that was: top news, Q&As and opinion on Harpers.co.uk

In case you missed some of the headlines this week (and a bit of last week due to the long weekend) on harpers.co.uk, we have done a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

UK most difficult market for top end sparkling wine outside Champagne

The UK is the most difficult market for top end sparkling wine outside of Champagne, according to the head of Franciacorta's trade body in Italy.

Champagne industry must face up to negative impact of global warming

One of the biggest challenges facing the Champagne industry is how to manage the negative effects of global warming, according to Krug's senior viticulturist, Romain Le Guillou.

Nicolas Feuillatte joins in the Gumball Rally's celebrations in London

London's Regent Street is set to be closed on Sunday, June 8 to make way for 120 Super Cars competing in the Gumball 3000 rally which sees motoring enthusiasts cross 3,000 miles across the United States and Europe between June 5-11. Nicolas Feuillatte is not only the official Champagne for the race, but has two branded cars competing in the rally.

Co-op's major wine revamp yields strong results

The Co-operative has seen sparkling wine, smaller serve bottles and Argentinian wine sales soar since it revamped its range in recent months.

Own-label Champagne sales lose their fizz says Lanson research

Retailer and own-label Champagne brands have plummeted 16% by value according to the latest category report from Champagne house Lanson.

Champagne Veuve Clicquot to debut at London Wine Fair

Champagne Veuve Clicquot is taking its own stand - a vintage yellow Airstream trailer - for the first time at London Wine Fair in June.

Formula One drivers can now celebrate with limited edition Champagne GH Mumm

As Formula One drivers spend so much time throwing around quality Champagne, official sponsors, Champagne GH Mumm, has produced a special limited edition bottle unique for Formula One.

France tops medal chart at the International Wine Challenge 2014

France has topped the medal chart at the International Wine Challenge for the 31^st year running, taking 1987 medals, including 113 golds.

Nick Mantella steps down as UK managing director of Codorniu

Nick Mantella has stepped down as managing director of sparkling wine company Codorniu UK after 12 years at the firm.

Grower champagnes are riding a wave, says Anne Krebiehl

Growers' Champagnes are riding a wave: while Bordelais tasting rooms remained sluggish and empty during this year's en primeur campaign, Champagne had no trouble attracting visitors, says Anne Krebiehl.

LVMH wine and spirits fall short of Q1 expectations

LVMH's wine and spirits business group posted a decline of 8% in the first quarter compared to the previous year.

Champagne exports to UK plummet by 5.1%

The UK remains Champagne's biggest export market, despite imports falling to €447.2 million last year, a decline of 5.1% by volume and 3.8% by value.

Ruinart: 2013 was good year in Champagne

Ruinart's cellar master says despite bad news elsewhere in France, 2013 was a good year in Champagne, and the house will make a 2013 vintage.

González Byass sees rapid growth in on-trade

González Byass is growing rapidly in the UK on-trade since taking on distribution for Champagne Deutz five months ago.

Moet Hennessey launches sparkling Argentinian wine in UK

Moet Hennessey is hoping to persuade UK consumers to trade up from standard and premium sparkling wine, and down from entry level champagne with the forthcoming launch of its premium sparkling wine brand, Chandon.

Douglas Blyde hears history, gains insight and tastes wines at Fells first summit

Combine one part history lesson with another part insight into the runnings of five family businesses, with a final part of tutored wine tastings, and the first Fells wine forum would result.

Held at Embankment's five-star Corinthia, a hotel realised by the Libyan Investment Authority (vehicle for Colonel Gaddafi's state funds) proceedings began with a speech by Fells MD, Steve Moody. His message was: this time it's personal.

"Today we take a step in a slightly different direction," he said. "Over the last 10 years our portfolio changed dramatically. Now we're one of the most premium wine importers. Rather than a larger, generic tasting, this is more personal. We're in the business of selling stories - and I think we've some of the best in the trade."

The function room of about 40 attendees included "hand-picked" sommeliers João Pires (Dinner by Heston Blumenthal), Vanessa Cinti (Cut, 45 Park Lane), Jan Konetzki (Restaurant Gordon Ramsay) and Charles Pashby-Taylor (Dabbous). The latter (previously of Gaucho) very obviously connected with the event's message. Pashby-Taylor told host Gerard Basset OBE (who donated his fee to a Southampton-based charity for disabled children): "As a sommelier I can talk the hind legs off a donkey on closures and barrels, but nine out of ten guests will sit with blank expressions looking petrified. It doesn't matter if a wine costs £10 or £10,000 a bottle - what guests want to know is, has love and attention gone into it?"

Esoteric only?

Basset paraphrased Jancis Robinson in his address, who recently described how Robert Parker Junior was "annoyed" by sommeliers who "only list esoteric wines" and "forget beautiful wines from a classic region." "In London we're lucky to have very different restaurants. For example at the River Café, I know sommelier, Emily O'Hare will want to surprise me and give me a wine I probably never heard of. But if I were to go twice a month, I'd also want something classic."

Moody showcased five family-owned agencies, including Torres (who owns 10% of Fells) and Symington Family Estates (who own the remaining 90%). Paul Symington said: "I am chairman, but they don't even pay me. I don't even get lunch but some awful sandwich from down the road!" He justified his position: "I didn't buy in to make a profit centre; the only things I ask Fells is not to lose money."

Wearing a bright orange v-neck, Thomas Henriot of Champagne Henriot (1808), whose family also bought Bouchard Père et Fils and Domaine William Fèvre in 1995 and 1998 respectively was first to speak. "Any tradition is an innovation which has succeeded," he said.

Alongside his PowerPoint presentation which featured the amusingly-misspelled heading, 'Are we Dinausaures?' Henriot revealed his modus operandi: "The world is wild: I don't rely on the bank, and I don't imagine fashion will protect my legacy." He clarified the latter. "Putting Syrah in Montrachet wouldn't be re-inventing the wheel; it would be nonsense."

Next, Miguel Torres Maczassek, fifth generation of Torres (1870) showed slides of Torres' Spanish "Chablis" from 1940. "It was hard to sell Spanish wines until after world war two, when people became familiar with the Torres brand."

Unfazed by Pinochet

Torres Maczassek showed an elemental, juicy, fair-trade Chilean sparkling rosé made from the 'Pais' grape, the country's most planted and resistant grape, here found in earthquake-hit sites. I learned that as well as being pioneers (from 1966) in introducing international varieties and stainless steel tanks to Spain, Torres were significant in being among the first foreigners to invest in vineyards in Chile from 1979. "Others were scared by dictator Pinochet," said Torres Maczassek. The locals thought our stainless tanks looked like UFOs."

He also revealed the secret to success, which doesn't depend on automatic dynastical lineage. "We believe not everyone in the family should work in the company - only the people who can add value."

Barone Francesco Ricasoli was the most vigorous producer to speak. Representing the 32^nd generation of his family, Ricasoli tends sites in Chianti Classico, a region defined by ancestor, Barone di Ferro (the Iron Baron) in the 19^th century and "roughly the size of St. Emilion.'

Ricasoli described the period from 1993 when he and his father, Bettino bought back the estate's name and re-launched the estate. "While everyone was hiding the name Chianti Classico I did the opposite, starting to work on Sangiovese and finding out why it was such a tough variety - almost as much as Pinot Noir. There are 70 different clones listed by the ministry of agriculture catalogue.

While Ricasoli takes a serious, reasoned approach to agriculture, he appeared interested foremost in "historical sustainability" (the estate was founded in 1141) than environmental "sustainability". Indeed, those terms appeared in that order in his presentation. He even denounced the nebulous definition of "natural" wines as "bullshit".

Wines shown, including 2010 Castello di Brolio, which Ricasoli defined as the "Lafite of Italy" were my favourites of the day.

Les Misérables

Penultimate speaker, Philippe Guigal of E. Guigal (1946) was sprightly despite a 3am start. "What is the Rhône valley today?" he asked. "It is France's second largest region after ...I forget the name... Bordeaux," he answered playfully. Guigal showed a rare picture of his grandfather, Etienne in the cellar of then boss, Monsieur Vidal-Fleury, which led to an ultimately uplifting narrative. "Etienne's father passed away when he was just two weeks old. At eight, he was told he was told 'you're the most dynamic of the three kids and must take care of yourself.'" Etienne subsequently toiled in vineyards from 14 to 18. "A Les Misérables start for the Guigal family!" he said. "At 19 the hard worker learned about vinification and a few years later became general manager. When he returned from the war he founded his own winery and vinified 67 vintages."

Following a special request from Moody to "please tell our guests some personal and private about the family that nobody knows" Guigal showed a picture of his mother, Bernadette and father, Marcel dressed for carnival (dad as Doge), then let slip that he and his wife, Eve are semi-pro ballroom dancers.

Guigal summed up his professional advantages. "We are in a world which goes so fast. The average stock of wine in the Rhône is 2.3 months, while we have the valley's largest stock - for 36 months in our three hectares of cellars."

Guigal also revealed while white wines only account for only 3.4% of the Rhône's output, they account for "precisely 25%" of their output. He showed Condrieu La Doriane 2012. "It's too easy with climate change to make ripe, rich, fat, explosive styles - we're moving to straight minerality."

Keeping it in The Family

Finally, Paul Symington confusingly defined himself by his accent. "I'm the only person who sounds British, but I only came to UK for the first time when I was 12 in 1965." He described his situation as privileged. "We don't have châteaux, but the most extraordinary valleys and the largest area of mountain vineyard one earth.

Symington talked of the Cockburn's project. "We rescued it from the hands of a multinational in 2006 and brought it back to its roots. Livery companies now buy it for first time in half a century."

Another positive piece of news involved Dow's 2011, which Symington described as the first port this century to get 100 points from Wine Spectator. "I must have got the right Swiss bank account for the man at Wine Spectator," he joked.

Apparently the last port company with coopers, Symington showed a single year Tawny. "Old Tawny is a complete mystery to the British. This Colheita was as much made by the team of coopers as the winemaker. Almost Cognac in colour, it's Port which adapts to the modern way of living." He told the sommeliers that there is no need to decant this style. "Don't need to disappear into the kitchen." Apparently six barrels or "pipes" of the 1982 were offered to mark for Prince William and Princess Kate "because that's when they were born."

Symington brought the summit to a close. "I had the misfortune of turning 60 in December, which was like falling into a big abyss. I believe in two distinct areas in wine: swathes as a commodity, being well-made but industrial, not speaking of anything other than being red or white. But the chances of having a survivable family business in that area are virtually invisible. Instead, broadly family businesses I think will have an incredible future because something protects us."

After the event Moody told me the event had not been rehearsed. "I don't mind admitting I was a little anxious about doing something so different for Fells. I do believe though that the day was a great success and it seemed to be enjoyed by our producers and the trade alike..."

Moët UK Sommelier of the Year contest now open

ProWein ups Champagne focus

ProWein is ramping up its Champagne focus in 2014, with double the focus on the sparkling wine compared to last year.

Q&A with ?Moët & Chandon's chief winemaker Benoît Gouez

Moët & Chandon launches the 2006 vintage of Moët Grand Vintage and Giles Fallowfield talks to chief winemaker Benoît Gouez about the wine, the vintage and his philosophy on vintage Champagne at Moët.

Nyetimber to release bottling, riddling and disgorgement dates

Olivier Krug talks to Giles Falllowfield about ID codes and keeping "Krugists" happy

I know his travel schedules are hectic but four continents in the space of one week seems excessive, even for him. In London, partly to see the pop-up Krug Kreperie in Covent Garden central market run in conjunction with Pierre Koffman, Olivier Krug is on a similarly lightening trip here after recent spells in Australia, Singapore, Canada and the USA. "I prefer quick visits where I can see lots of people in a short time as this means fewer days away from Champagne," says Krug.

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Champagne exports fell 1.5% in 2013

Panos Kakaviatos explores the world of Dom Pérignon

Champagne may be great to drink anytime, but it is good to know that one need not spend too much on a fine bottle. During a Paris salon earlier this month, I tasted through some lovely bottles of moderately priced non-vintage Champagnes, including Drappier, Piper Heidsieck and Larmandier-Bernier. These and others provide well balanced aromas and flavours of citrus, brioche and a full bodied character, complemented with fine bubbles and freshness.

Champagne Taittinger appoints ex-Moet Hennessy executive to lead UK business

British drinks producers back London Collections:Men

Upmarket Searcys parent firm sees profits grow

Champagne Occasions: Engaging the consumers

The second Harpers Champagne Occasions roadshow asked how on-trade buyers and operators can engage consumers and trade them up by linking Champagne with food.

Jonathan Simms to be brand ambassador for Pernod Ricard UK Champagnes

Pernod Ricard UK has appointed Jonathan Simms as its new ambassador for its Champagnes brands.

New Zealand and France hit International Wine Challenge's top spot

Majority of Champagne is not being sold "well" says Taittinger chief

Up to 70% of Champagne around the world is not being sold "well" and the major houses need to step up their act to protect the category, according to the head of Champagne Taittinger, Pierre Emmanuel Taittinger.

Q&A: Pierre Emmanuel Taittinger on why Champagne houses must work harder to protect the category

Pierre Emmanuel Taittinger, head of Champagne Taittinger, says the major Champagne houses still have a lot of work to be done to make sure Champagne continues to be sold correctly and does not suffer from heavy price discounting that can damage its long term image.

Consumer reasearch session: Champagne

The 21 attendees were asked to taste seven different Champagnes and then to fill in a questionnaire, which explored their attitudes and knowledge on fizz in more detail.

Krug launches magnum format for rosé

The House of Krug is to release Krug Rosé in magnums for the first time.

Selfridges to have a Moët mini vending machine

An adult vending machine has been installed at Selfridge's on Oxford Street in London for mini 20cl versions of Moët Champagne. mini vending machine with 20cL bottles selling for rrp £17.99 each.

How do our Champagne Occasions partners educate the consumer?

Interview with: David Harker, owner, Newcastle wine school

I think the most surprising finding coming out of the workshop was how many respondents weren't fazed by the price of some of the Champagne - even up to £70 a bottle, which was a lot more than most of them said they would originally be prepared to pay...

Specialist Champagne restaurant set to open in City of London

A new restaurant which claims to have one of the largest selections of Champagne and sparkling wine by the glass in London is set to open in the City at the end of November.

Giles Fallowfield travels back 100 years with Lanson's vintage Champagne

Lanson head winemaker Jean-Paul Gandon with his heir apparent Hervé Danton were in London last week for a dinner at Vintners Halls to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of vintage Champagne at the house. Lanson's first vintage Champagne was produced in 1904 and in a nice bit of symmetry it was the first opportunity to taste the newly released 2004 Lanson vintage, another good example of the large, forward and attractive '04 vintage showing biscuity complexity and a long finish.

Bristol restaurant creates Moët Champagne bar

Bristol restaurant Casamia has teamed up with Moët & Chandon to create a Grand Vintage Champagne bar. The bar is made from solid French oak and it is to serve the 2004, 1999 rosé, 1990 Brut, 1952 and 1972 in Magnum - all of which will be available by the glass.

Champagne Piper-Heidsieck releases festive gift packs

Piper-Heidsieck has released a gift box range featuring three of its Champagnes, aimed at the Christmas market.

Celebrate the fourth annual Champagne Day on October 25

Pop the Champagne and get ready to celebrate the fourth annual International Champagne Day this Friday, October 25.

Late Champagne harvest should still bring good balanced vintage

Finest Fizz offers personalised Champagne for Christmas

Finest Fizz, an new import company that focuses on small independent producers of Champagne, will be offering consumers the opportunity to put their own label on the bottle, which could make for a great gift this Christmas.

Q&A: Roberto Della Pietra, head sommelier, Tirage Champagne et Plats

Roberto Della Pietra talks to Anne Krebiehl about the exclusively sparkling offer at Tirage Champagne et Plats, opening in London in November

Bruno Paillard releases 2004 vintage and praises family-owned Champagne houses

Sotheby's to auction rare Moët & Chandon's vintages going back to 1914

Sotheby's London is to hold an exclusive auction featuring never-before-seen vintages of Moët & Chandon with lots that go back to 1914.

Affluent parts of UK put fizz back into Champagne sales

Champagne corks are beginning to pop again in more affluent pockets of the UK, while sparkling wine continues to be "a runaway success" across the board, according to recent trade figures.

Shortlist announced for 2013 Champagne Ambassador's Awards

The shortlisted candidates for the 2013 Champagne Ambassador's Awards organised by Comité Champagne (CIVC) have been announced.

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Pommery Champagne pop-up at Edinburgh Fringe

Following its success as part of last year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival the Champagne Pommery pop-up café bar has once again made an appearance.

Lanson sells record number of bottles at Wimbledon

Andy Murray's famous victory at Wimbledon last weekend was washed down with a record number of bottles of Champagne Lanson, the official Champagne of the tournament.

Pernod Ricard releases Formula One jeroboams of Mumm Champagne

Pernod Ricard is gearing up for the British Grand Prix by releasing limited edition jeroboams of Mumm Champagne in the UK, to highlight the brand's long-running sponsorship of Formula One.

Carol Emmas, freelance wine writer

Hubert de Billy, Sales manager, France, Champagne Pol Roger

My Choice: Greg Sherwood MW, Handford Wines

Seeing as I do 95% of the cooking at home, and I have recently developed a craving for risottos of all types, I've found that a lightly chilled bottle of Lopez de Heredia Vina Tondonia Gravonia Crianza Rioja Blanco 2003 goes down like a homesick mole.

Catching up with the new wine team at Harrods

Anne Krebiehl catches up with the new wine team at Harrods and hears how the double act are looking to turn customers' heads in the wine aisles

Champagne sales rallied in top-end restaurants, Lanson report reveals

Champagne sales in the on-trade surged by a robust 7.2% last year, bucking the widely reported decline in retail sales.

Lanson Champagne unveils plans for Wimbledon anniversary

To celebrate 25 years as the official suppliers of Champagne to Wimbledon, Lanson has unveiled a new look for its range.

Patriarche Wine Agencies changes hands

Patriarche Wine Agencies has been bought by Champagne de Castelnau from Burgundy house Patriarche Père et Fils.

Exclusive research: indies look to Old World for growth

European wines made from indigenous varieties are providing independent wine merchants with much more scope for growth compared with the New World's offering.

Champagne roadshow for 2013

Harpers is hosting a series of regional debates around the UK in bid to educate the on-trade and specialist retail sectors about the diversity of the Champagne category beyond non-vintage.

Henners launches multi-vintage sparkling wine

East Sussex-based English sparkling wine producer Henners has announced a new multi-vintage concept that is to form a major part of its portfolio from 2016.

Call for entries to Moët UK Sommelier of the Year

The Academy of Food & Wine Service is calling for entries to the Moët UK Sommelier of the Year 2013.

English wine experts question need for regionality

Harpers hears from leading experts on English sparkling about whether establishing a cru-based identification system would help estates promote their wines better on an international stage.

Asda reports sparkling sales following £10 Champagne deal

Asda has reported a 23% rise in Champagne and sparkling wine sales over the Christmas period.

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Asda has reported a 23% rise in Champagne and sparkling wine sales over the Christmas period.

The retailer said it sold close to a quarter of a million bottles of Champagne in the week before New Year's Eve, with sales of Pierre Darcys Champagne Brut, which was on offer at £10, up 25% compared to 2011.

Sparkling wine sales rose by 28% and champagne by 17%, Asda said, causing a 1.7% increase in its market share.

"In times of austerity, shoppers look for ways to treat themselves on a budget, and this is never more true than at Christmas.

"With such a wide variety of quality sparkling wines and Champagne available, from branded Champagne at market-leading prices to trusted, award-winning own-label options, and sales that outperformed the market as a result, we're confident that we got our Christmas 2012 offering right.

"We're now looking forward to what should prove to be an exciting year ahead for the category," said Lynsey Grace, Asda's Champagne and sparkling wine buyer.

Memorial service for Champagne Taittinger UK brand ambassador Justin Llewelyn

Hatch Mansfield have announced details of a memorial service to be held for Taittinger's UK Ambassador Justin Llewelyn.

'Crus' for English sparkling wines

Leading English sparkling wine producers have called for estates to shout about their individual growing areas in a bid to communicate their regional differences better.

Win a French wine hamper worth £250

Christmas might be over, but readers can re-live the festive fun with Harpers' latest competition.

Take 5 With Pol Roger's Hubert de Billy

Harpers hears from Hubert de Billy, sales manager for France at Champagne Pol Roger, who will be exhibiting at SITT Spring 2013.

Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte boasts strong performance in 2012

Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte has strengthened its position among the leading Champagne brands  by posting its second most successful performance ever for 2012.

New Blanc de Blancs launched by Nyetimber

West Sussex-based English wine producer Nyetimber has released its 2007 Blanc de Blancs.

Call for entries to Moët UK Sommelier of the Year

The Academy of Food & Wine Service is calling for entries to the Moët UK Sommelier of the Year 2013.

The Co-operative announces festive Champagne sales up 21%

The Co-operative has announced Champagne are sales up 21% in the last week compared to the same week last year, with big price reductions driving the trend.

Offering Champagne at Cava prices could 'seriously damage' category

Noel Reid, wine and spirits buyer at Frederic Robinson has said positioning Champagne at prices not far above that of Prosecco or Cava could "very seriously damage the reputation of the entire segment".

Leventhorpe launches Yorkshire's first sparkling rosé

The Leventhorpe vineyard near Leeds has launched Yorkshire's first sparkling rosé wine in time for Christmas and end-of-year celebrations.

Champagne market unlikely to pick up until 2014

The Champagne market is unlikely to pick up in 2013 - and not before 2014/15 - according to Dr Steve Charters MW, professor of Champagne management at Reims Management School.

Looking back on 2012 for the wine trade: part 2

Ready for the next instalment of what's gone on in the wine trade in 2012?