California weathers the storm

Wine has been made in California since the late 18th century and its industry has seen it all – from phylloxera and Prohibition to the Judgment of Paris – so the Golden State’s current crisis needs to be seen through the prism of perspective.

US tariffs on Scotch lifted following King’s visit

US president Donald Trump has announced that tariffs on Scotch whisky and other controls will be removed following King Charles’ visit to the United States.

Jack Daniel’s: Brand introduces enhanced on-trade support

Tennessee Whiskey brand Jack Daniel’s has announced a number of initiatives including an event for UK bartenders and a trip to the producer’s Lynchburg, Tennessee home.

Premiere Napa Valley: Auction dips, but plaudits for 2024 vintage

The week-long celebration that is Premier Napa Valley saw $3 million being raised at its concluding auction on Friday (20 February), confirming the ongoing popularity of this charity fund-raiser.

Scotch takes 15% sales hit since Trump tariff implementation

New figures from the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) have detailed the impact of US tariffs on Scotch sales across the pond. According to research, export volume sales to the States since April have fallen 15%, with value taking a 7% knock.

One-in-five Scotch distilleries in financial distress

New research from financial advisory firm BTG can reveal that 69 distillers in Scotland – almost 20% of the total – are facing financial distress.

Oregon tasting: Changes afoot but boutique offer still shines

At Farringdon’s stylish Old Session House, the Oregon Wine tasting showcased the Pacific Northwest’s lively offer. Those from the state demonstrated that export would remain a key focus despite the unavoidable geopolitical background noise.

The Old Vine Conference showcases the beauty of age

From France to Australia, by way of many territories between, the shrinking global vinescape has become enough of a concern that its impact was reported in The Economist this November. With wine drinking in decline, cash-strapped consumers reining in spend and thus an industry feeling the pain of oversupply, vineyards are being ripped out, with other, more profitable crops often being planted. And a troubling fact – at least where future quality wine production is concerned – is that older vines, by dint of the fact that they are less productive and sometimes harder to work, are often first in the firing line.

Berry Bros. & Rudd launches in the US

The UK’s oldest fine wine and spirits merchant Berry Bros. & Rudd has announced that it is expanding into the US market with the opening of a flagship store in Washington D.C.

Flint Wines expands US portfolio with addition of five wineries

Flint Wines, the London-based fine wine merchant, has announced the expansion of its US portfolio, becoming the exclusive UK distributor of five new wineries.

Pernod Ricard sees overall decline in sales over Q1

Pernod Ricard, the wine and spirits giant, has experienced declines across most of its major markets in the first quarter. Overall, Q1 organic net sales were down -7.6%, while reported sales fell -14.3%.

Paso Robles producer DAOU and Bibendum announce distribution partnership

Paso Robles producer DAOU Vineyards has penned a distribution partnership with wine wholesaler Bibendum. The California producer is seeking to grow distribution through independent and luxury retail, as well as in the UK on-trade.

New Zealand Winegrowers releases 2025 report

New Zealand Winegrowers, the national organisation for the country’s wine industry, has released its Annual Report 2025.

Promising California harvest in full swing following mild summer

Winemakers in California have begun their harvest following a long, consistent growing season. Grapes were able to mature gradually in 2025 following a mild summer which was preceded by a cool spring.

Pernod Ricard: Sales fall amid tariff and travel retail woes

French drinks giant Pernod Ricard has announced its results for the 2025 financial year. Amid a suite of macroeconomic challenges, the multinational saw an overall -3% drop in organic global sales.

Tariffs: Joint statement confirms 15% US levy on EU producers

The United States-European Union Joint Statement announced by EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič has confirmed a 15% tariff on European goods exported across the pond.

JKS Restaurants announces US debut with two new venues

On-trade heavyweight JKS Restaurants has announced a stateside expansion with two new launches set to open.

Foley Family appoints Jay Gifford to lead international sales

US drinks group Foley Family Wines & Spirits (FFWS) has announced the onboarding of Jay Gifford to its team in the newly created role of international MD.

Australia: Wine exports to China stabilise with other markets down

A new export report from Wine Australia shows that after an initial surge in sales after Chinese tariffs on Australian wine ended last year, Aussie wine sales to China have begun to stabilise.

NY roundtable: Exporting the northeastern state’s promise