ADT: Aussie alternatives

An assortment of varietals continued to challenge the Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Riesling ‘quo at Tuesday’s Australia Day Tasting in London, showcasing an ongoing innovative streak when it comes to plantings and blends.

The week that was

In case you missed some of the headlines this week on harpers.co.uk, we have put together a review of the top online news, Q&As, and opinion stories.

The Champagne Bureau UK teams up with the LWF

The Champagne Bureau UK has partnered with the London Wine Fair (LWF) to bring the world of Champagne to the capital.

Hamilton Russell to launch Ashbourne Pinotage/Cinsault in the UK

Iconic South African producer Hamilton Russell Vineyards has unveiled plans to launch a new Ashbourne Pinotage/Cinsault blend into the UK market next year.

Historic Laytons name dropped from Jeroboams merchant arm

Gin boom boosts Diageo’s UK performance

Diageo has reported a 7% increase in net sales in its first half year boosted by a strong performance from its gin portfolio.

Asia’s thirst for Australia drives AU$2.56bn export high, but UK and USA dip

The most recent export figures from Wine Australia, released at the busy Australia Day Tasting (ADT) in London on 23 January, revealed that Australian wine exports to mainland China continue to boom in the wake of the 2015 free trade agreement between the two countries.

Fever-Tree edges out competition to become top retail mixer

Fever Tree has continued its indomitable hold on the UK spirits sector by becoming the top mixer by value in UK retail.

Domaine Jessiaume sets sight on UK as it nears organic certification

Burgundy producer Domaine Jessiaume has revealed it is gearing up to enter the UK market for the first time.

ADT suppliers up their Oz bids as competition ramps up from China and the US

A hardy – dare we suggest, typically Australian – attitude to price hikes and supply challenges was the main exhibit at yesterday’s Australia Day Tasting, where plenty of creative and business flair set out the category’s stall for 2018.

Wine Rack signs three-year deal with The Wine Show

Wine Rack has signed a three-year deal with Channel 5’s The Wine Show.

Alsace Crus & Terroirs gears up for first UK tasting event

The Alsace Crus & Terroirs organisation, created in 2015 by 19 of the region's top producers, has announced its first UK tasting.

Further investment and NPD for Cramele Recas on the back of booming exports

Cramele Recas has revealed plans to expand its winery to produce an additional four million litres, taking its total capacity to 30 million, on the back of soaring exports.

WSET awards its 2017 winners and graduates at annual ceremony

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) awarded its 2017 winners and graduates last night at its annual Awards & Graduation ceremony in London.

LWF partners with JF Hillebrand for Innovation Zone

The London Wine Fair (LWF) has partnered with JF Hillebrand on this year’s Innovation Zone launch.

Gonzalez Byass brings Ashton Hills Pinot Noir to the UK for the first time

Gonzalez Byass has signed a deal as the exclusive distributor of Ashton Hills, marking the UK debut for the Adelaide producer’s Pinot Noir wines.

Hampshire producers prepare for annual tasting

A group of seven leading Hampshire producers are on their to way to London once again in February for their annual tasting.

CVNE acquires Cava producer Roger Goulart

Compañia Vinicola del Norte de España (CVNE) has ventured outside Rioja for the first time with the purchase of Cava D.O. producer Roger Goulart.

McPherson reveals ‘unique’ wines to celebrate 50 anniversary

Australian winery McPherson Wine Co has revealed a raft of activity to celebrate its 50 birthday, including a number of exclusive wines.

UK bound: French Wine Discoveries

It can be a double-edged sword being a French winemaker.