Fine wine prices up for first time in six months

There's been a "definite lightening of the mood" as the Liv-ex Fine Wine 100 index has posted an increase of 3.97 points, or 1.39%, in January, after six months of decline.

Nicolas sells UK franchise to Spirited Wines

Nicolas has sold its UK stores to Spirited Wines - to be operated under franchise.

Enomatic machines up for grabs at SITT 2012

The Specialist Importers Trade Tasting SITT, is to offer two visitors a chance of winning an enomatic machine on a 12 week trail basis.

Merchants debate value of Italian wine investment

Are investors looking to Italian wines as the next big thing? Merchants are reporting growth, but whether the wines are being bought as investments remains to be seen.

Sterling slips against euro

Sterling started the day poorly against the euro due to negative UK Nationwide house price data which was released on top of an increased positive outlook in the Euro zone.

Majestic chairman says high street's in 'death spiral'

The high street is in a "death spiral", says Majestic's new chairman Phil Wrigley, who recommends using empty shops for residential accommodation.

Merchants and sommeliers to have their say at Harpers Champagne Summit

Harpers Wine and Spirit is limbering up for its 2012 Champagne Summit, taking place on February 28 at London's Chiswell Street Dining Rooms.

Berkmann's revamps Australian wine portfolio

Berkmann Wine Cellars has revamped its Australian agency portfolio, having replaced 85% of the current lines.

Changing weather impacts vintages, say top winemakers

Winemakers around the world are noticing huge vintage variation thanks to changing weather patterns.

WSTA offers Olympic tips for the drinks trade

The WSTA has produced a practical guide on how to get your business ready for London 2012, including tips on how to make sure staff and deliveries can make it on time.

Luxury Champagne brands need to rethink online marketing

Luxury Champagne brands will have to rethink how they interact with customers online as "clunky brand websites will become archaic".

Sterling rallies against euro

Sterling had a good day yesterday rallying throughout the afternoon against the euro to finish the day above the 1.20 level.

EWG Spirits & Wine launches G'Vine Gin Connoisseur 2012

EWG Spirits & Wine, owner of the G'Vine Gin, has launched he global quest for the world's best gin bartender, G'Vine Gin Connoisseur 2012.

Vintner Systems receives the Royal Warrant

Minimum pricing would save 60 lives in first year

A 45p per unit minimum charge for alcohol would save around 60 lives in the first year and reduce hospital admissions by 1,660, according to a University of Sheffield report.

CVRVV launches Vinho Verde 2012 campaign

The Vinho Verde wine commission (CVRVV) has launched a UK campaign for 2012, to educate a new generation of trade and consumers about Vinho Verde.

CVRVV launches Vinho Verde 2012 campaign

The Vinho Verde wine commission (CVRVV) is launching a UK campaign for 2012, to educate a new generation of trade and consumers about Vinho Verde.

Wines in the press, January 26-29

The Guardian
At this cash-strapped time of year isn't a bad time to work through through those bottles you may have stored at home, says Fiona Beckett.

Glenmorangie adds Artein to its Private Edition range

Artein is the third release from Glenmorangie's Private Edition range made from a combination of 15 and 21 year old single malts, extra matured in Super Tuscan wine casks.

Sterling steadies due to EU summit meeting

Sterling had a steady day with most of the news generated in Europe over the EU summit meeting in Brussels.