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There has been a significant advancement in artificial intelligence (AI) related to wine tasting. Researchers at the University of Copenhagen’s Pioneer Centre for AI, along with collaborators from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and Caltech, have successfully trained an algorithm to predict individual wine preferences based on human taste perceptions. The study explains how this was achieved through wine-tasting events where participants ranked wines based on their taste similarities. The data from these events was combined with extensive wine label and user review information provided by the wine app Vivino. This includes 897,000 images of wine labels and 824,000…

Researchers in Greece have explored the use of Augmented Reality (AR) technologies in the marketing of wine, specifically focusing on the creation of innovative consumer-oriented experiences through augmented ‘live’ wine labels. AR apps allow users to interact with wine labels in a novel way. The research (PDF) aims to assess the impact of AR smartphone applications embedded in wine labels on consumer experience, satisfaction, re-usage intentions, attitude and purchase intentions towards the wine product. There’s a growing importance of AR and VR technologies in various fields, including marketing and advertising. In the food and drink industry, AR can be used…

A recent study “Machine Learning for Predicting Wine Quality and its Key Determinants Based on Physicochemical Properties” (PDF download) by Domonkos Frigyes Török, explores the role of various properties in determining wine quality. Sulphates, pivotal in the wine’s preservation and flavour profile, actually play a dual role as both preservatives and taste enhancers. They contribute significantly to the wine’s complexity and longevity when balanced correctly, but excessive amounts can lead to undesirable tastes. Alcohol content is another crucial factor, influencing the wine’s taste, texture and aroma. It adds body, richness, and a velvety texture, enhancing the wine’s overall mouthfeel. However,…

Harpers is reporting that the renowned wine retailer Oddbins has taken a significant turn by closing the physical aspect of its business, signalling the end of an era for a brand that was once a staple on UK high streets. Oddbins, known for its diverse and quality wine offerings, faced challenges in regaining its pre-pandemic trading levels, struggling with reduced footfall and changing customer buying habits. The company, established in 1963, reached its peak with 278 stores across the UK, famed for its unique and intriguing wine selections. However, the last decade has seen a series of financial difficulties, leading…

In recent years, the narrative surrounding independent wine retailers in the UK has been dominated by a sense of impending doom, fuelled by the aggressive competition from supermarkets with their convenience of next-day delivery. However, the latest figures from The Wine Merchant paint a surprisingly different picture, one of resilience and steadiness in a turbulent market. As of the end of October, The Wine Merchant’s records show a stable landscape with 1,018 shops, operated by 774 individual entities. This is in striking contrast to the common belief that these independents are in decline due to the growing dominance of supermarket…

Campo Viejo has recently unveiled a study that looks into the relationship between interior spaces and the enjoyment of the wine served within them. The study’s findings suggest that the design and ambiance of a space can significantly influence our sensory experiences, particularly when it comes to experiencing wine. The experiment, though small in scale, was designed to gauge the impact of environmental context on the perception and pleasure derived from wine. A group of forty-two participants was chosen for this unique tasting experience. Each participant tasted the same wine, but what changed was the setting. The wine was served…

There’s recent research (PDF) looking into the impact of peer preferences and expert reviews on consumer behaviour, specifically for products like wine that consumers can sample. Through two experimental studies, the research identified that when consumers taste wines, their own rating significantly influences their willingness to pay (WTP). A one-star increase in their rating can lead to an approximate $3 increase in WTP. Even after tasting, peer and expert ratings continue to play a role, with a one-star rise resulting in a $1.96 and $1.15 increase in WTP respectively. Interestingly, the study observed little difference in the weighting consumers give…

There’s an interesting new whitepaper titled “Wine Decisions: The Wine Buying Experience in Independent Specialist Wine Retailers” based on a research study conducted by KAM in collaboration with Hallgarten & Novum Wines, focusing on consumer behavior within the UK’s independent specialist wine retail sector. This study, involving 1,185 participants, explores the driving factors influencing consumer preferences and purchase decisions amidst economic challenges like rising inflation. The research reveals that despite financial tightening, value for money remains a crucial aspect for consumers while purchasing wine, but not strictly in terms of price. Consumers are attracted to specialist wine retailers due to…