Castelnau launches second Hors Catégorie cuvée as it looks to double sales

Champagne Castelnau last night launched Hors Catégorie cuvée - the second prestige cuvée to be released as part of the premium collection.

WSET reveals new and enhanced qualifications

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) has improved its educational programme with a new spirits qualification in addition to enhancing two of its existing courses.

Digby’s cool climate fizz makes first foray into Scotland

Digby Fine English has made its first foray into Scotland via an exclusive distribution deal with Alexander Wines.

Dedicated Old World red wine subscription business launches

An online subscription wine club has been launched with a sole focus on Old World red wines.

WSTA signs deal to promote trade relations with China

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) is to sign an agreement with Chinese distiller Kweichow Moutai Co to increase trade relations between the two countries.

The Benevolent to hold mental health discussion at LWF

Trade charity The Benevolent has joined forces with the London Wine Fair (LWF) to present a panel discussion on mental health at this year’s event.

Chapel Down wine sales soar

Chapel Down has reported a 20% increase in its wine sales alongside a 7% increase for its associated Curious Drinks beer and cider arm.

Kentish wineries partner with Visit Kent to launch wine tourism initiative

Seven Kentish wineries have partnered with Visit Kent to launch a new wine tourism initiative – The Wine Garden of England.

Members of South Africa’s Old Vine Project now able to put heritage seal on bottles

Members of South Africa’s Old Vine Project (OVP) have been given the clear to put a Certified Heritage Vineyards (CHV) seal on wine bottles made from vineyards that are 35 years old (or older).

Croft, Fonseca and Taylor’s Port declare 2016 vintage

Armit Wines appoints new ‘head of London sales’

Armit Wines has appointed a new ‘head of London sales’ as part of a strategy to grow its customer base in the capital.

The week that was

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.

UK restaurants feeling the heat

Wine is struggling for attention in a UK restaurant sector experiencing a “perfect storm” of adverse trading conditions, according to a new report.

Michael Sager to launch new restaurant and bar concept

A new restaurant and bar called Fare Bar + Canteen, is set to open in London’s Clerkenwell, offering a 250-strong wine list and 30+ wines, beers and cocktail on tap.

Californian producers target London and Edinburgh

The annual Golden State Tasting is to take place in Scotland for the first time to capitalise on the popularity of Californian wines north of the border.

Pernod Ricard reports strong organic sales growth

Pernod Ricard has reported a rise in organic Q3 sales boosted by strong performances in China and the US.

Harrods new Fine Wines and Spirits Rooms aims to educate and ‘break down barriers’

Luxury department store Harrods has reaffirmed its place as one of London’s premiere destinations for fine wines and spirits after unveiling its multi-million pound renovation.

AB InBev acquires Master of Malt owner Atom Group

ZX Ventures, the growth and innovation unit of AB InBev, has acquired the parent company of Master of Malt, Atom Group, for an undisclosed sum.

Amathus Drinks appoints Mike Miller as head of marketing

Amathus Drinks has appointed previous Catalyst marketing director, Mike Miller, as its new head of marketing.

Rémy Cointreau reports annual sales increase boosted by strong Chinese performance

Rémy Cointreau has reported an increase in annual sales, boosted by demand in China for its Cognac, and kept its target for profit growth this year.