Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

South Africa lands two 100 pointers in Atkin’s latest Special Report

Published: 02 September, 2025

In the 13th edition of his annual South Africa Special Report, Tim Atkin MW has scored two wines 100 points (full marks).

Classic and lesser-known wines drive the Loire’s appeal

Published: 25 June, 2025

The Loire remains one of France’s greatest export success stories: a touchstone for fresh, vibrant and multifaceted wines that pair irresistibly and effortlessly with food. Moreover, in a zeitgeist where ‘cost-of-living crisis’ has become part of the everyday lexicon, the region stands out for offering consistently high quality at reasonable prices. For the independent sector – where delivering value has never been more crucial – that’s a combination not to be overlooked.

SA Wine partners with Stellenbosch University on 'pioneering' Chenin Blanc project

Published: 19 March, 2024

South Africa Wine, The South African Grape and Wine Research Institute (SAGWRI), Stellenbosch University, and the Chenin Blanc Association of South Africa (CBA) are launching a pioneering initiative to advance the prominence and economic viability of Chenin Blanc from the Cape.

Indie supply disruptor Propeller ramps up distribution with SA’s Ross Sleet

Published: 15 April, 2021

Indies distribution incubator Propeller has teamed up exclusively with the Ross Sleet founded South African négociant Rascallion as it grows its model-defying footprint in the UK market.

Tim Atkin MW: Celebrating Chenin

Published: 10 July, 2019

TIM ATKIN MW

Loire Valley estate Coteau des Treilles changes hands

Published: 20 June, 2018

Coteau des Treilles owner Jo Pithon has after 40 years transmitted his estate to ‘wine enthusiast’ Ivan Massonnat.

South Africa over-delivers at entry level, but needs to work harder to push premium message

Published: 04 May, 2017

Last week Harpers gathered a room full of wine trade experts to debate the health of the South African wine industry. Participants from the on-trade, multiples and independent sectors discussed how South Africa can better promote its premium offering and what its trump cards are.