Analysis & Insights - Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

Insights: White wine renaissance

Published: 28 September, 2016

Sales of premium whites are on the up, but restaurants still see red when it comes to higher-end sales.

Insights: The Age of Craft Beer

Published: 26 September, 2016

'Craft beer' is enjoying a golden age, with new breweries springing up across the UK - and there's still plenty of territory left to explore.

The Drinks Wholesaler: A little of what they like

Published: 21 September, 2016

Welcome to our autumn issue of Drinks Wholesaler, which is packed with the usual medley of analysis, insights, viewpoints and features, plus original research into the wine market, commissioned and shared by Crown Cellars, appearing for the first time here.

Insights: Vodka's back and going premium

Published: 20 September, 2016

Vodka may have hung on to its crown in recent years, but the gin renaissance certainly tempted a few of its followers. But make no mistake: vodka is back and its returning to form with a more premium offer

Analysis: Soave has evolved

Published: 16 September, 2016

If searching for lighter white wines that are easily accessible and affordable, possessing a rich history with a signature grape variety and complex soils with the capacity to age (if given a chance), a keen shop owner or sommelier would be advised to look into the 'New Soave'.

Silver linings: a post-Brexit boom?

Published: 15 September, 2016

Life after the referendum may not be as bad for the hospitality business as some feared

Insights: Could Prosecco pricing be under pressure again this year?

Published: 12 September, 2016

Taking a look back at the Prosecco pricing bubble in 2015, ahead of this year's harvest, Harpers.co.uk investigates if it could happen again.

Analysis: Exploring the Loire

Published: 08 September, 2016

Happily for the adventurous among us the Loire Valley is brimming with epicurean opportunity. If you need an acid-fresh white or two on the list, there are plenty less familiar names than the ubiquitous Sancerre to turn to. In the hunt for alternatives, let's start with some of the more obvious choices.

Insights: Suppliers provide in-depth data reports to attract and support customers

Published: 07 September, 2016

Anecdotal evidence about on-trade trends is being replaced by much more in-depth research from suppliers, delivering an invaluable sales asset for both wholesalers and accounts.

Insights: Sake's new image

Published: 05 September, 2016

Not long ago sake was the preserve of Japanese restaurants, often low quality, cheap and served hot. But standards and times have changed with the rise in popularity of superior premium sakes.

Harpers Global Design Awards 2016: What the judges said

Published: 02 September, 2016

Design often precedes smell and taste when it comes to encouraging a customer to pluck a bottle from the shelf - it also adds lustre to the longevity of engagement with a brand. The Harpers team samples our Design Awards 2016 Trophy winners.

Analysis: Liberty Wines' On-Trade 2016 report highlights opportunties in the on-trade

Published: 02 September, 2016

Ahead of its tasting later this month, Liberty Wines' Premium On-Trade 2016 report shows where the opportunities lie in an ever-changing landscape.

Insights: The importance of a well-honed drinks list

Published: 31 August, 2016

With new openings driving fierce competition, hitting the ground running with a well-honed drinks list is key. But how is it done?

Part 2: The boom-and-bust cycle of tequila

Published: 31 August, 2016

With mezcal and tequila taking off in the UK, harpers.co.uk looks at what is driving the trend in a three part series.

Part 1: Popularity for tequilas and mezcals in the on-trade rises

Published: 26 August, 2016

With mezcal and tequila taking off in the UK, harpers.co.uk looks at what is driving the trend in a three part series.

Greek wines make headway in the UK

Published: 24 August, 2016

Hellenic winemaking techniques have helped make Greek wine slowly make headway in the UK and helps brighten the country's prospects for the future

The Smith Report: Life beyond the back of the bar

Published: 24 August, 2016

With rising demand for on-trade consultants, bar staff now have ample opportunities out of house. At last month's Bols Business Class in Bristol leaders discussed what it takes to get started.

Analysis: Croatian, Slovenian and Turkish wines are offering really points of difference

Published: 19 August, 2016

Croatia, Slovenia and Turkey are increasingly recognised as fertile territory for wines offering real points of difference.

Insights: The rise of rum

Published: 17 August, 2016

Spiced rums and quality sipping products are driving the thirst for a taste of the Caribbean.

Keys to building your indie business Part 4: Making the most of events

Published: 15 August, 2016

At the first Think Indie, Drink Indie event, successful merchants shared best practices and avenues to consider when looking to expand. Here is the first of a four part series covering different areas independent merchants should consider in expanding their businesses. Topics covered included why wholesaling is good for indies, how the hybrid model can be great for retail, what to consider when expanding online and the how to maximise the value of events.