Australia - Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

Bird In Hand Wine appoints Sam Harrop MW

Published: 11 August, 2023

Top Aussie estate Bird In Hand has added a string to its feathery bow via the appointment of Sam Harrop MW, in the role of consultant winemaker.

Kate Goodman named Australian Winemaker of the Year

Published: 03 August, 2023

Kate Goodman, head winemaker for Penley Estate Winery, in Coonawarra, South Australia, has been named Australian Winemaker of the Year 2024 by the Halliday Wine Companion.

Oz Vintage 2023 estimated to be “smallest in a generation”

Published: 11 July, 2023

According to the results of Wine Australia’s National Vintage Survey, the 2023 Australian winegrape crush was the lowest reported since 2000, a 24% decrease on the 2022 crush of 1.73m tonnes and 26% below the 10-year average of 1.78m tonnes.

Adelaide to host next IMW symposium

Published: 03 July, 2023

After four days of tastings and talks among the finest palates in the industry, The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) concluded the 10th international symposium by announcing Adelaide as the next host region for the event, with the symposium heading to South Australia in 2026.

Top Selection signs distribution deal with Penfolds

Published: 19 June, 2023

Australian wine brand, Penfolds, is aiming to assert its position in the UK’s fine dining scene by partnering with UK importer Top Selection to increase distribution of the brand in high-end restaurants and luxury hotels.

Giaconda Chardonnay joins La Place de Bordeaux

Published: 02 June, 2023

Giaconda Estate Vineyard Chardonnay will soon be launched through La Place de Bordeaux and distributed by the respected Bordeaux négociant Jean Pierre Moueix (JP Moueix).

‘Minimal’ approach majors at Deep Down Under

Published: 24 May, 2023

A panoply of minimal intervention styles, from the 100% natural to a range of ‘hands-off’ products, put the spotlight on the very sharpest examples of Australia’s cutting-edge winemaking at Monday’s (22 May) Deep Down Under tasting.

Antipodean challenger

Published: 10 March, 2023

With Pinot-philes increasingly expanding their horizons, Guy Woodward assesses Australia’s offer at its Pinot Noir Celebration.

Sustainability key motivator for Australian wine consumers

Published: 01 March, 2023

Sustainable Winegrowing Australia released its Impact Report for the 2021–22 financial year this week, revealing a record growth in membership by Australian grape growers and winemakers.

De Bortoli makes strides on impressive sustainability journey

Published: 23 February, 2023

The family-run Australian winery De Bortoli has been recognised as the first Platinum Partner by the Sustainability Advantage Programme.

Penfolds launches first-ever multi-vintage Yattarna in Paris

Published: 17 February, 2023

Penfolds officially unveiled its first-ever multi-vintage Chardonnay in Paris this week during a reception hosted by chief winemaker, Peter Gago. The wine is a blend of five Yattarna vintages and aptly named the Penfolds V.

Australia’s trendsetters

Published: 08 February, 2023

James Lawrence looks at the likely shapers of Australia’s wine industry into 2023.

Grenache in the spotlight at UK’s biggest showcase of Australian wine

Published: 25 January, 2023

The Australia Trade Tasting returned to London on 24 January 2023, showcasing more than 700 wines from 200 wine producers to hundreds of trade and media in the UK.

Yalumba reveals new organic collection

Published: 24 January, 2023

Barossa Valley producers Yalumba have announced a new range of organic certified wines.

Hayward Bros. and The Usual Suspects broaden UK offering

Published: 23 January, 2023

Hayward Bros, the family-owned, London-based importer has strengthened its relationship with Australian producer The Usual Suspects Collective, headed up by Jonathon Hesketh.

All change for OZ wine brands including Hill-Smith Family announcement

Published: 09 September, 2022

The Hill-Smith Family has announced a new inclusive name for its wine business – Hill-Smith Family Estates.

New South Wales Wine announces first-ever UK trade tasting

Published: 05 September, 2022

New South Wales Wine will showcase 17 producers (five with UK distribution and the rest looking for importers) later this month for its first-ever UK trade and press standing.

Australia: UK market overview

Published: 25 August, 2022

The theme of today is adaptation. The collapse of Australia’s trading relationship with China has left many casualties in its wake, forcing brands to look to new markets and consumers. According to Wine Australia, “exports to mainland China declined by 97% in value and 93% in volume to 6.4 million litres in 2021, a loss of nearly $1bn (£574m) in value when compared with 2020”. Ironically, China was once touted as Australia’s salvation, when demand in Western Europe and the US started to slump in the mid-2000s. Everyone anticipated that Asia’s biggest country would plug the gap.

Talking heads: Oz is back in style

Published: 23 August, 2022

Producers and importers share with James Bayley their thoughts on the hot trends with Oz wines shaping Australia’s present and future offer in the UK market.