News - Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

Call for entries: Harpers Design Awards 2024

Published: 10 June, 2024

Submissions are now open for the 2024 Harpers Design Awards, the UK’s premier competition celebrating excellence in drinks design and packaging.

SME drinks manufacturers toast 63% revenue surge in Q1

Published: 10 June, 2024

Small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) drinks manufacturers are celebrating a substantial 63% rise in revenue during the first quarter of the year, according to the latest figures released by the Manufacturers’ Health Index.

UK wine and spirit industry boosts economy with £76bn contribution

Published: 10 June, 2024

A recent report by the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has highlighted the substantial economic impact of the UK's wine and spirit industry, which contributed over £76bn to the economy in 2022. This marks a significant increase from the £49bn reported five years ago.

Gorgona prison project celebrates 12th vintage milestone

Published: 10 June, 2024

The Gorgona project, a unique collaboration between Marchesi Frescobaldi and the Gorgona island prison, has marked a significant milestone with the release of its 12th vintage. Launched in 2012, the initiative offers inmates nearing the end of their sentences a chance to learn viticulture skills, earn a wage and prepare for reintegration into society.

Quarter of UK drinkers embrace 'zebra striping' with alcohol-free options

Published: 07 June, 2024

A new industry report by research consultancy KAM and alcohol-free beer brand Lucky Saint reveals that a quarter of UK drinkers are alternating between alcoholic and alcohol-free drinks during their visits to pubs and bars. The report, titled ‘2024 Low and No: Drinking Differently,’ launched this week, highlighting the UK’s shift towards moderation.

Two London restaurants named in 50 Best list

Published: 07 June, 2024

London eateries Kol and Ikoyi have been included in this year’s 50 Best Restaurants list – the global fine dining equivalent of the Oscars in the eyes of many. It is the second consecutive year that both restaurants have been featured on the list, making up two UK venues in total, and one fewer than last year.

Lanson follows Le Black Création with launch of complimentary new rosé

Published: 06 June, 2024

Champagne Lanson has introduced Le Rosé Création 67 to the UK, following in the footsteps of the multi-vintage Le Black Création, unveiled in 2023.

‘Moderate recovery’ predicted for global alcohol market in 2025

Published: 06 June, 2024

Following a decline in global beverage alcohol sales in 2023 and tough trading conditions so far in 2024, IWSR has predicted a gradual recovery from 2025.

Bordeaux’s 2023 En Primeur campaign: A mixed bag with glimmers of hope

Published: 06 June, 2024

As Bordeaux's 2023 en primeur campaign concludes, the wine community takes stock of its vital signs, and while the vintage falls short of 2022's heights, there are noteworthy successes according to Part II of Wine Lister’s 2024 Bordeaux Study.

Hallgarten & Novum Wines updates Eco Standard on World Environment Day

Published: 06 June, 2024

Specialist wine importer Hallgarten & Novum Wines has unveiled the latest edition of its Eco Standard on World Environment Day (5 June). First introduced on the same day in 2023, the Eco Standard aims to enhance sustainability practices across its supplier base, covering vineyard operations, winery processes and overall business management.

Norwich Wine Week returns for second year

Published: 05 June, 2024

Norwich Wine Week is set to return this month, offering attendees a chance to sample a diverse array of wines from vineyards across Norfolk and beyond.

The battle to preserve The Oxford Artisan Distillery

Published: 05 June, 2024

The Oxford Artisan Distillery (Toad) has become a cherished local institution since its inception. Known for its handcrafted spirits, the distillery prides itself on using sustainably farmed, heritage grains and traditional distilling methods. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over its future, leading to a campaign to keep Toad in its current location.

Tom Brown’s Michelin-starred restaurant Cornerstone to close amidst wave of high-profile closures

Published: 05 June, 2024

Tom Brown, the chef behind the Michelin-starred restaurant Cornerstone, has announced that his establishment will be closing its doors. The news marks the end of an era for the Hackney-based restaurant, which had garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative seafood dishes and contemporary approach to British cuisine.

Migration policies must address hospitality sector

Published: 04 June, 2024

Ahead of the 4 July general election, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged to reduce the number of migrants each year under a new Conservative government.

Sussex wine estates launch wine trail ahead of English Wine Week

Published: 04 June, 2024

Twelve prominent wine estates in Sussex have joined forces to establish a new wine trail, set to launch ahead of English Wine Week from 15-23 June.

Enotria adds new Roussillon partnership

Published: 04 June, 2024

Jean-Marc Lafage, the Roussillon-based wine producer, has announced a partnership with leading UK wine importer Enotria & Coe to distribute his Château Saint Roch brand.

The economics of the great British booze market – do we pay to play?

Published: 03 June, 2024

The UK spirits market, to many global producers, is one they want to be part of. It’s not the biggest by any means, nor is it the most fruitful – but there is an air of prestige about it. And yet many independent producers trying to break into the UK market, will struggle or worse, fail miserably. It’s a tough nut to crack but by understanding the nuances of the market, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the challenge – and hopefully reap a bit of great British success.

UK’s most comprehensive Rosé tasting event: Fine Rosé Day

Published: 03 June, 2024

Wine enthusiasts and professionals are in for a treat as Elizabeth Gabay MW and Ben Bernheim present arguably the UK’s most comprehensive rosé tasting event, Fine Rosé Day, on 19 June. The event, set to take place at the 2 Michelin star Trivet restaurant, promises an intriguing exploration of rosé wines.

Majestic partners with Gophr on-demand delivery for 'Summer of Sport'

Published: 03 June, 2024

Majestic has formed a partnership with on-demand courier specialist Gophr to enhance delivery services during the busy summer sports season. The collaboration will provide Majestic’s retail and on-trade customers with same-day deliveries across the UK.

Franco Adami elected president of Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG

Published: 03 June, 2024

The Board of Directors of the Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG has elected Franco Adami as its new president. Adami will lead the Italian Consorzio for a three-year term from 2024 to 2026, following his election on 29 May.