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Issues affecting the wine industry and the wine you drink

  • Evolution of the Drinks Industry

    Evolution of the Drinks Industry

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    Simon Judge

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    Drinks retailing news has an interview with Mauricio González-Gordon, president, González Byass known for brands like Beronia, Tio Pepe, Quinta do Noval, Wirra Wirra, Jackson Estate and Disznókő Tokaji. Mauricio González-Gordon has a long background in the drinks industry, spanning over three decades. He has witnessed substantial changes in winemaking origins and global consumption patterns. Initially, the focus was on a few Spanish origin denominations, but the scope has expanded globally since the 1980s, driven by technical advancements and broader commercial strategies, including supermarket distribution. This globalisation has shifted wine consumption from traditional producing nations to importing countries like the…

  • Do You Want a ‘Watered’ Down Version of a Wine?

    Do You Want a ‘Watered’ Down Version of a Wine?

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    Simon Judge

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    Richard Siddle writes on the London (Trade) Wine Fair web site on how our wines might be changing soon, without our consent. Richard discusses the complexities and strategies behind wine selection and sales in retail outlets, driven primarily by industry dynamics rather than consumer preference. Factors like international currency strength, harvest quality and government taxes significantly influence which wines are available at certain price points. For example, if the currency in South American countries is weaker than in Australia, it becomes more cost-effective to source wine from South America. Additionally, a shortage of a popular grape variety can lead buyers…

  • The Challenges of Contemporary Wine Scoring

    The Challenges of Contemporary Wine Scoring

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    Simon Judge

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    WineMag has an informative article by Jamie Goode, who wrote the Wine Science book, that looks into wine scores. Jamie notes a significant expansion in the wine criticism landscape, with numerous critics adopting the 100-point scale, except for a few like Jancis Robinson who opted for a 20-point scale. However, Jamie observes a narrowing in the scoring range over time, suggesting that what once required a wine to be decent to score 85, now such a score could be given to significantly lesser quality wines. He remarks on the inflation of scores, where what was once celebrated as a 90…

  • UK Wine Buying Trends

    UK Wine Buying Trends

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    Simon Judge

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    There’s a new issue of Drink Retailing that contains data from a revealing study of 2000 UK adults, conducted by IPSOS in October 2023. A notable 29% of respondents reported a decrease in their alcohol purchases compared to the previous year, signalling a potential long term shift in consumption habits. However, 16% of individuals have found themselves buying more alcohol than they did a year ago, illustrating a different response to contemporary circumstances. Interestingly, a significant majority, 66% of those surveyed, confirmed that they consume alcohol at least on a weekly basis, indicating that, for many, drinking remains a consistent…

  • Neo-Prohibitionists Reshaping Global Alcohol Policy

    Neo-Prohibitionists Reshaping Global Alcohol Policy

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    Simon Judge

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    Wine Business Monthly has an in-depth piece by Felicity Carter on How Neo-Prohibitionists Came to Shape Alcohol Policy. In January 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) made a startling declaration, stating that there is ‘no safe level’ of alcohol consumption, thereby placing light alcohol consumption under the spotlight as a significant public health concern. This move aligned with the influence of temperance groups, which have managed to introduce abstinence-based policies into global health discussions. This phenomenon can be traced back to 2015 when dissatisfaction with the European Union’s lack of progress in developing effective alcohol policies led over 20 public…

  • Cava All-Time Sales Record

    Cava All-Time Sales Record

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    Simon Judge

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    Cava has achieved a new sales record, reaching 252 million bottles, marking a growth of 1.09% from the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by a 4.02% increase in domestic sales, despite a slight 0.25% decrease in international sales. The decrease in foreign markets was attributed to economic challenges, including inflation in Europe and decreased sales in the United States. Javier Pagés, President of the D.O. Cava Regulatory Council, praised the resilience of Cava amidst economic and geopolitical challenges. He highlighted the domestic market’s recovery and Cava’s consolidation in international markets, despite the downturns faced by competitors. Particularly notable…

  • New Post-Brexit Wine Duty Bands Unworkable?

    New Post-Brexit Wine Duty Bands Unworkable?

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    Simon Judge

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    Jack Simpson from The Guardian newspaper reports on the concerns of UK wine industry about post-Brexit tax changes set to increase the complexity of alcohol duty, leading to higher wine prices for consumers. The new system, effective from February 2025, will introduce 30 tax bands for wine, replacing the previous single band. This change, which aligns duty with the alcohol by volume (ABV) of drinks, has been criticised by industry leaders as “ludicrous, expensive, and probably unworkable.” The overhaul was officially announced last August during Rishi Sunak’s tenure as Chancellor, aiming to tax drinks based on ABV rather than type.…

  • How the Vivino Community Affects Consumer Wine Choice

    How the Vivino Community Affects Consumer Wine Choice

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    Simon Judge

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    A new study Factors influencing wine ratings in an online wine community: The case of Trentino–Alto Adige (PDF) by Giulia Gastaldello, Isabel Schäufele-Elbers, and Günter Schamel explores the dynamics behind consumer ratings of wine on Vivino, a leading online wine community. It examines how various factors, including wine attributes like geographical indications, brand, and a community effect based on the popularity among users, influence these ratings across different price points. The research employs regression models and a hedonic quantile regression on price to analyse data from Vivino concerning wines from the Trentino–Alto Adige region in Italy. The study reveals a…

  • Australia’s Battle Against Overproduction

    Australia’s Battle Against Overproduction

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    Simon Judge

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    The Independent Newspaper is reporting that Australia’s wine industry is facing severe challenges due to a significant oversupply of wine, driven by declining global demand, especially for lower-priced red wines which are a major product of the country. Australia, the world’s fifth largest wine exporter, found itself with over two billion litres of wine in storage by mid-2023, leading to some of the stock spoiling. The crisis has hit hard in areas like Griffith, known for its wine grape cultivation, where millions of vines, some planted by Italian migrants in the 1950s, are being uprooted to combat the overproduction that…

  • Aldi Unveils UK’s First Supermarket Own-Brand Paper Wine Bottles

    Aldi Unveils UK’s First Supermarket Own-Brand Paper Wine Bottles

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    Simon Judge

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    Aldi has announced the launch of the UK’s first supermarket own-brand paper wine bottles, marking a significant step in sustainable packaging. The products, Cambalala South African Shiraz and Cambalala South African Sauvignon Blanc, priced at £7.99 for a 75cl bottle, will be available from 18th March, coinciding with Global Recycling Day. These innovative bottles are made using Frugalpac’s technology, consisting of 94% recycled paperboard with a food-grade pouch for the wine, offering a fully recyclable solution that is five times lighter than traditional glass bottles. This initiative is part of Aldi’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, equivalent to driving…

  • Heightened Alcohol Sensitivity After COVID-19 Recovery

    Heightened Alcohol Sensitivity After COVID-19 Recovery

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    Simon Judge

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    There’s new research that looks into alcohol sensitivity experienced by individuals after recovering from COVID-19, known as Post-acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). It presents case series of patients who, after contracting COVID-19, began experiencing adverse reactions to alcohol that they hadn’t faced before, such as severe hangover symptoms from small amounts of alcohol. This suggests a possible link between COVID-19 recovery and heightened alcohol sensitivity.

  • Italian Wine Exports – Downturn in Both Volume and Value

    Italian Wine Exports – Downturn in Both Volume and Value

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    Simon Judge

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    European Supermarket Magazine is reporting that in 2023, Italian wine exports experienced a downturn in both volume and value across its five principal export markets, decreasing by 4.4% and 7.3% respectively, amounting to €4.45 billion. This decline was particularly marked in the United States, Canada, Japan and the UK, with only Germany witnessing a 7% increase in exports, buoyed by a significant rise in bulk wine orders. The overall decrease is attributed to an oversupply at local distributors in the US, alongside similar declines in other key markets. The sector faced challenges such as rising production costs and falling average…

  • Sparkling Wine Purchase Factors

    Sparkling Wine Purchase Factors

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    Simon Judge

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    There’s new study-based research (PDF download) into recent sparkling wine consumers in Ontario, Canada, offering insights into the cues that drive their purchase decisions. Sparkling wine’s global market is experiencing significant growth. This uptrend is notable given the distinct nature of sparkling wine, often purchased for celebrations rather than regular consumption. Research has highlighted the importance of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors in influencing sparkling wine purchases. Consumers prioritise taste, smell, and the price-quality ratio, while also considering the wine’s origin and brand reputation. Interestingly, the significance of these cues can shift based on whether the purchase is for personal…

  • The Rise of Beaujolais and the Decline of Merlot

    The Rise of Beaujolais and the Decline of Merlot

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    Simon Judge

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    Decanter Magazine is reporting there’s been a notable shift in wine preferences in the UK, particularly in the red wine market. Merlot, once a popular choice, has seen a significant decrease in sales within bars and restaurants, spurred by a demand for lighter red wines. On the flip side, Beaujolais is experiencing a surge in popularity, with sales of Gamay grapes increasing by 35% since 2019 in upscale venues. This shift is attributed to a preference for lighter red wines and the search for value. Other varieties such as Nebbiolo, Corvina and Barbera are also gaining popularity, alongside a growth…

  • UK Bulk Wine Bottlers Embrace Cork for Sustainability

    UK Bulk Wine Bottlers Embrace Cork for Sustainability

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    Simon Judge

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    The Drinks Business is reporting that two leading UK bulk wine bottlers are making a move back to traditional cork stoppers. This change comes amidst growing demand among wine brands for more sustainable packaging solutions. This trend is largely driven by cork’s sustainable credentials, which are becoming more valued by both consumers and wine brands. The decision by Encirc Beverages and Broadland Drinks to install new corking lines at their UK facilities is a result of rising demand for cork-sealed wines. Encirc is responding to a top wine brand’s request to switch from screwcaps to cork for its bulk-shipped wines…

  • Calls for UK Budget Alcohol Relief to Boost Business and Curb Inflation

    Calls for UK Budget Alcohol Relief to Boost Business and Curb Inflation

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    Simon Judge

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    The Independent Newspaper is reporting that the alcohol industry is calling for cut to punishing duty rates. The Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) has voiced concerns over the detrimental effects of last year’s significant increases in alcohol duty, highlighting the negative repercussions on UK businesses and the broader economy. These increases, described as the largest in nearly half a century, added 20% to the excise duty on the majority of wines and over 10% on full-strength spirits available in the UK market. The industry witnessed a decline in sales volumes for wine and spirits, with spirits sales dropping by…

  • Global Warming and the Wine Industry

    Global Warming and the Wine Industry

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    Simon Judge

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    In a new study, Adapting and Thriving: Global Warming and the Wine Industry, researchers from Israel Universities look into the issue of global warming’s impact on the wine industry and propose a suite of innovative agricultural practices to combat these challenges. As the planet warms, the wine industry faces shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns that can affect grape ripeness, quality, and ultimately and the taste of wine. The research says that through innovation in farming practices and technological advancements, the industry has a viable pathway to not only survive but also to thrive in this new environmental shift. More…

  • Navigating the Rise of Alcohol in Wine

    Navigating the Rise of Alcohol in Wine

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    Simon Judge

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    A new article Balancing act: Managing High Alcohol in Wine by Andy Neather discusses the growing concern in the wine industry regarding rising alcohol levels in wine, attributed to climate change and evolving consumer preferences for riper, more powerful wines. It specifically notes the trend of increasing alcohol content in wines from traditional regions like Burgundy, Bordeaux and the northern parts of Spain, with recent vintages showing significantly higher percentages than were common in the past. The article explains the scientific basis for this increase, higher average temperatures lead to higher sugar levels in grapes, resulting in higher potential alcohol…

  • Educators vs Seducers

    Educators vs Seducers

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    Simon Judge

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    There’s a thought provoking article at Meininger’s International that argues against the notion that increasing wine knowledge is the key to addressing the industry’s challenges. Instead, it emphasises the importance of sparking interest through fascination and seduction, rather than focusing solely on education. The piece illustrates this point with anecdotes about people in the wine industry who have achieved success without comprehensive knowledge of all wine regions or varieties. It suggests that passion and the ability to intrigue others about wine are more impactful than formal education in enhancing appreciation and expanding the wine community.

  • How Label Colour Shapes Wine Buying Decisions

    How Label Colour Shapes Wine Buying Decisions

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    Simon Judge

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    New research looks into the psychological impact of wine label colour on consumers, examining how black and white versus colour labels affect the perceived value and appeal of red and white wines. It highlights that black and white labels significantly elevate the perceived quality and exclusivity of red wines, thereby increasing consumer interest and willingness to purchase. This effect is attributed to the labels’ ability to convey sophistication and trigger deeper cognitive engagement with the product. Conversely, the study observes that this effect is less pronounced for white wines, suggesting that the influence of label colour is contingent upon the…

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Did You Know?

Nearly a third (32%) of UK consumers say they have already used AI for alcoholic drinks advice. More

Among socially active wine buyers, 37% have bought a wine recommended online. More

In 2026, 72% of consumers now think wine knowledge is essential to appreciation, up 20 percentage points on 2025. More

Rías Baixas wines reached more than 107 countries in 2025 and exports represented 31 per cent of the denomination’s total sales. More

Light Strike Can Cause Wine Degradation in Just One Day. More

People actively adjust their wine choices depending on who might see them. More

In the UK, 73% of Alcohol is Bought From Retail Rather Than Hospitality. More

UK wine production reached 124,377 hectolitres that year, meaning the UK accounted for roughly 0.05 per cent of world output. More

For Crémant, grapes must be harvested by hand and the wines must undergo at least nine months’ ageing before release. More

In 2024, the UK was the second-largest export market for Champagne globally, after the United States. More

Local UK bottling of wine represents about 40% of imported wine. More

Around 1% of people, typically severe asthmatics, have a sulphite sensitivity. More

A large 80% of Australian wine arrives in the UK in bulk. More

Only about 0.02% of Australia’s landmass is dedicated to vineyards. More

In 2024, New Zealand produced only 1% of the World’s wine. More

In 2024, the US imported 37% of World production of Pinot Grigio and the UK was is in second place at 27%. More

In 2024, the UK was South Africa’s largest export market, with 40% of total exports. More

In 2024, the United Kingdom imported 22.3 million bottles of Champagne, a decline of 12.7% compared to the previous year. More

Larger Champagne producers source grapes from as many as 80 different vineyards throughout Champagne. More

Champagne houses and growers collectively produce around 300 million bottles annually. More

In 2025, the Champagne region was home to about 2,124 Champagne houses and approximately 19,000 growers. More

Provence is one of the leaders in the conversion to organic viticulture, with 61% of vineyards certified. More

8% of the South Africa’s grape production is Fairtrade-certified. More

Up to 80% of wine aroma compounds come from grape skins. More

Glycerol is the third-largest component of most dry wines after water and alcohol which is why they so often feel ‘smooth’ or ‘silky’ in the mouth. More

Humans are more than 400 times more sensitive to bitter than sweet. More

Humans can detect the earthy molecule geosmin at about 100 parts per trillion and camels are so sensitive to it they can locate damp ground from roughly 50 miles away. More

During the phylloxera crisis of the nineteenth century, 90% of Europe’s vineyards were destroyed. More

In 2025, for La Vieille Ferme, also known as “The Chicken Wine”, sales surged by 49.4% to £110.8 million. More

In 2025, in the UK, Yellow Tail held the top position with sales, marking a 9.8% increase over the previous year. More

In 2024, the UK was the second-largest wine importer in volume and value. More

In 2024, the UK was the fifth-largest wine-consuming country globally. More

In 2025, global wine consumption continued its downward trend, estimated at 214.2 million hectolitres, the lowest since 1961. More

In 2025, online alcohol sales had a 20% increase in value over five years. More

In 2025, the number of UK vineyards rose to 1,104 and wineries to 238, with land under vine expanding to 4,841 hectares, a 510% increase since 2005. More

Moët Hennessy alone commands nearly 46.66% of the Champagne market, with the top three producers together holding about 61%, and the top five controlling over 72%. More

In 2024, the Champagne market was worth roughly €3.92 billion. More

In the marketing year 2023/24, white wine accounted for roughly 55% of Spain’s output, whereas red and rosé together made up about 45%. More

In the UK, 92% of wine is consumed within 48hrs of purchase. More

The majority of wines, 95%, use commercial rather than wild yeast. More

Between 0.5 and 10 litres of water, per litre of wine, are needed for cleaning during winemaking. More

Machine harvesting can achieve up to 100 tons of fruit per day vs 1 ton for a human. More

In Germany, 2025 was the smallest wine vintage since 2010. More

The majority of vineyards, 90% in 2019, are farmed with heavy chemical interventions. Only 6% are organic. More

90% of low and coastal areas in south Europe and California will no longer be able to produce good wine by the end of the century. More

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