Analysis & Insights - Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

La Dolce Vita

Published: 12 June, 2019

A broadening interest in Italy means the country’s indigenous grape varieties are now packing a punch at the top, writes Jo Gilbert

Asian evolution

Published: 10 June, 2019

Andrew Catchpole reports from WBWE in Yantai on the booming bulk market and fast-evolving Chinese taste for wine

UK drinks have undergone a bona fide revolution in the past 10 years. It’s no coincidence that, since 2007, UK food and drink exports have increased by nearly two-thirds, with exports now worth £22.5 billion (Defra).

Sizing up the options on the high street

Published: 03 June, 2019

Are all high-street wine shops doomed to go the way of Oddbins and Majestic? Chris Wilson takes the pulse of the independent wine trade

Booze barrier hovers

Published: 30 May, 2019

Checkout-free convenience stores could benefit some indie merchants, writes Andrew Catchpole

Bordeaux pushes sustainability agenda

Published: 28 May, 2019

At first glance, it seems inconceivable that a tradition-bound region such as Bordeaux could willingly embrace change. The strict hierarchy of Bordeaux’s classed growths, cemented in 1855, is as intransigent as it was in the 19th century. Bordeaux’s winemakers remain defined by the vines and the soil they inherit.

Plumpton: A new wine epicentre

Published: 16 May, 2019

As the founder of Plumpton College’s wine division prepares to depart for pastures new, Jo Gilbert finds out what the future holds for this rapidly evolving institution.

California: Western promise

Published: 13 May, 2019

A recent California Wines tasting convinced many that the Golden State is back on track. Andrew Catchpole reports on its refreshed identity

Bordeaux 2018 EP report & Gavin Quinney's Top 100

Published: 09 May, 2019

Gavin Quinney delivers his annual insights and scores (see below) on the Bordeaux 2018 vintage for a year he describes as “extraordinary”.

Local heroes abroad: GB wine exports rise

Published: 08 May, 2019

English and Welsh wines are on a real roll, and not just at home. Exports are expected to rise significantly over the next few years, reports Lisa Riley

What’s hot at this year’s LWF

Published: 07 May, 2019

With exhibitor numbers up significantly, LWF 2019 promises to be a better showcase than ever. Lisa Riley breaks down what visitors have to look forward to

Stuffed on staff?

Published: 03 May, 2019

Brexit is boosting British job uptake in hospitality, but a severe worker shortage continues to undermine the trade, as Andrew Catchpole reports.

Ten years of Tio Pepe En Rama

Published: 02 May, 2019

A decade ago, González Byass UK managed to shake up a moribund sherry category with Tio Pepe En Rama. Jo Gilbert dissects its success

Botanical battle

Published: 01 May, 2019

With sales still fast climbing, Andrew Catchpole asks if value can be locked in to future proof the category against peak gin

Has the king of fizz gone flat?

Published: 30 April, 2019

The Champenois are working to adapt and recover Champagne’s position in the UK. But there is division among its ranks about how best to engage with younger consumers. James Lawrence reports

America's frontier wine states

Published: 29 April, 2019

Americans may believe size is important, but there is far more to the nation’s wine than just what comes out of California, as Norman Miller discovers

A brave new world disease resistant vines

Published: 24 April, 2019

As disease-resistant vine quality improves, Darren Smith assesses how environmental pressures may radically alter the viticultural landscape

The end of sex, drugs…and alcohol?

Published: 23 April, 2019

The brains behind synthetic alternative Alcosynth say they’re five years from hitting the market and revolutionising the alcohol industry. Is this really the future, asks Jo Gilbert?

Together we can change the world

Published: 17 April, 2019

The 2019 Climate Change Leadership Conference called for the wine industry to set a global example. Lisa Riley reports

Risky business in Rioja

Published: 15 April, 2019

Rioja’s new single-vineyard classification signals the region’s desire to go after greater premium market share. The big question is, will it succeed?