Recession 'could help Champagne'

The recent fall in Champagne sales caused by the global financial crisis could help Champagne producers to balance their stocks, according to the head of the Union of Champagne Houses.

Hallgarten Druitt announce new commercial director

Hallgarten Druitt has announced its new commercial director, Andrew Bewes.

Berry Bros & Rudd release a Michael Jackson whisky

Berry Bros and Rudd have released a new limited edition whisky which has been created in honour of one of the industry's most respected professionals - Michael Jackson.

France Under One Roof Claire Hu wine

More than 50 importers and producers will be exhibiting at the France Under One Roof tasting next Tuesday (March 24) at Lord's Cricket Ground between 10am and 5.30pm.

France Under One Roof

More than 50 importers and producers will be exhibiting at the France Under One Roof tasting next Tuesday (March 24) at Lord's Cricket Ground between 10am and 5.30pm.

Campari looks to Skyy for growth

Skyy vodka and the Aperol aperitif were among the brand highlights for Gruppo Campari, which posted organic sales growth of 2.7% in 2008, and saw net profit rise 1.1% to Euros 126.5 million.

Blog 4: Mario Pablo Silva, managing director Vina Casa Silva

Blog number four from Mario Pablo Silva, managing director of Viña Casa Silva March 16 2009, Colchagua Valley, Chile

Diageo Introduces New Pimm's Half Bottle

Diageo Great Britain is to introduce a new 35cl bottle of Pimm's and will put greater emphasis on the Pimm's "keggy" as part of its "Bring Home the Spirit of Summer," campaign.

Rollout for Pimm's keg

Diageo GB is rolling out its pre-mixed keg version of Pimm's and lemonade tested in the on-trade last summer.

En primeur over a barrel

British importers are threatening to turn their backs on Bordeaux blue chip claret this year following the "biggest impasse on pricing" in living memory.

Thierry's to showcase producers

The UK's largest importer of French wines is preparing to showcase its key producers at this year's France Under One Roof tasting in London.

Wines in the press, March 14-15

What our national wine critics had to say for the weekend of March 14-15

Drinks chiefs meet Mandelson and Chancellor

The chairmen of the UK's major drinks industry trade associations have discussed the deepening crisis within the trade with the Chancellor of the Exchequer and Business Secretary Lord Mandelson.

Premium wines for Arniston

South African wine brand Arniston Bay has released a premium version on the UK market.

Wine Relief raises £150,000

Wine Relief was boosted by £150,000 this year with a charity dinner, auction, wine sales and sponsored diet.

Trade leaders meet Darling and Mandelson

The chairmen of the five leading drinks trade bodies held meetings with Chancellor Alistair Darling and Business Secretary Lord Mandelson on Monday, urging them to abandon the planned duty increase in April.

Adamson to switch to Craggy Range's European sales role

Warren Adamson, who heads up New Zealand Winegrowers in the UK and Europe, is to become European sales director for  New Zealand's Craggy Range Vineyards, replacing Michael Henley.

New Director for Wine Australia

The Australian Wine & Brandy Corporation (Wine Australia) have announced the appointment of Lisa McGovern to the new role of Regional Director of UK, Ireland and Europe, to be based at Australia House in London and effective from the April 6.

Scotch tours worth £25m

Tourists spent 12.2% more visiting Scotch whisky distilleries in 2008 than they did the year before.

Tourists spent 12.2% more visiting Scotch whisky distilleries in 2008 than they did the year before.

Distillery tours boosted the Scottish economy by £25 million, according to Scotland Whisky, the whisky tourism organisation.

Minimum drinks prices - in England and Wales

Plans for minimum drinks prices in England and Wales could mean spirits priced at least £14 a bottle and some wines upwards of £5.40.