Alcohol abuse commission launched in Scotland

The Scottish Labour party, which opposed the SNP's failed bill to enforce minimum alcohol pricing in Scotland, has set up a commission to tackle alcohol abuse.

Scotch exports beat the recession

Exports of Scotch whisky grew by 1.5% in the first nine months of 2009 despite the recession.

Darling confirms rise in VAT

Chancellor Alistair Darling has confirmed that value added tax will return to 17.5% in January, but claims there will be no further direct rise on alcoholic drinks duty tax.

New Zealand sweet wines permitted in UK

The generic trade body, New Zealand Wine Growers has welcomed a ruling that will allow the import of sweet wines into the UK.

Christmas campaigns unveiled for Tia Maria and Glenfiddich

Panel of MWs to judge Argentina Wine Awards

Pernod Ricard announces new UK appointments

Pernod Ricard has announced the appointment of three spirit and wine/Champagne Channel directors to its UK arm.

Wines in the Press- December 4-6

Observer

First promotion for rescued Wine Racks

All of the Wine Rack stores saved from administration by Venus Wine & Spirit are to hold in-store tastings this Saturday (December 12) on a range of promotional wines.

Diageo faces boycott over rum plans

Diageo is facing a boycott of its spirits brands in protest at its future production plans - in Puerto Rico.

Provenance assured for fine wine buyers

A new online wine service for shoppers who are are worried about the provenance and risks associated with badly stored fine wine is being launched with a guarantee of 100% tracebility.

Boutinot recalls wine

The wine importer Boutinot has recalled from sale the NOVAS Winemaker's Selection - Chardonnay Marsanne Viognier 2006.

Wine Rack managers gather at Vinopolis

Wine Rack managers are gathering at Vinopolis today (Thursday) for their first formal meeting with their new owners.

Raiders target Sussex vineyard

Burglars have stolen £32,000 of wine from a Sussex vineyard.

Simon Thorpe quits Constellation

Simon Thorpe MW is quitting Constellation Europe to become managing director of Australian fine wine importer Negociants UK.

Further Champagne discounts at Morrisons

Morrisons is making further cuts to the prices of leading Champagne brands.

Stolen wine warning

The trade is being warned to be on the lookout for stolen wine after the theft of 57 cases en route to Berry Bros & Rudd.

More FQR stores close - but Wine Rack lives on

A further 391 First Quench stores are to close - but there is good news about the future of the Wine Rack brand.

Searcys to open six Champagne bars in 2010

Searcys is looking to roll out its Champagne bar concept across the country with six new sites planned for next year.

IWC opens early for entries

The International Wine Challenge is calling for entries for next year's competition.