Analysis & Insights - Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

Debunking the myth

Published: 24 June, 2019

Vodka has long had an image problem, says Nate Brown, but a new exploration of its natural flavours is helping consumers better understand the spirit

Jeroboams: growing an empire

Published: 20 June, 2019

With Jeroboams’ takeover of Prohibition Wines now complete, Jo Gilbert caught up with the London merchant to find out how it continues to successfully adapt its DNA

The second of Harpers Industry Briefings at London Wine Fair brought together leading independent merchants with our editor Andrew Catchpole to discuss Blurring Boundaries – How Indie Merchants are Opting for a Multifaceted Approach

Lebanon: Return to roots

Published: 13 June, 2019

Perched on the eastern end of the Mediterranean, yet with vineyards at altitudes of 1,000m and above, Lebanon offers a promising mix of conditions for the production of great wines. Of course, the first wave of Lebanese wines to make their mark internationally were largely blends based on Bordeaux varieties, with some notable successes, gaining a niche but loyal following. However, in tune with the country’s location and viticultural history, a second wave of indigenous and Mediterranean varieties are now emerging as winemakers realise the potential for varieties that carry more of an indigenous signature.

Harpers’ Industry Briefing: Upping the stakes

Published: 13 June, 2019

At Harpers’ Industry Briefing at London Wine Fair, Andrew Catchpole invited leading trade figures to assess how best to build value and margin back into the wine category. Here are the highlights from a sometimes impassioned and insightful dicussion.

La Dolce Vita

Published: 12 June, 2019

A broadening interest in Italy means the country’s indigenous grape varieties are now packing a punch at the top, writes Jo Gilbert

Asian evolution

Published: 10 June, 2019

Andrew Catchpole reports from WBWE in Yantai on the booming bulk market and fast-evolving Chinese taste for wine

Spirited away

Published: 05 June, 2019

UK drinks have undergone a bona fide revolution in the past 10 years. It’s no coincidence that, since 2007, UK food and drink exports have increased by nearly two-thirds, with exports now worth £22.5 billion (Defra).

Sizing up the options on the high street

Published: 03 June, 2019

Are all high-street wine shops doomed to go the way of Oddbins and Majestic? Chris Wilson takes the pulse of the independent wine trade

Booze barrier hovers

Published: 30 May, 2019

Checkout-free convenience stores could benefit some indie merchants, writes Andrew Catchpole

Bordeaux pushes sustainability agenda

Published: 28 May, 2019

At first glance, it seems inconceivable that a tradition-bound region such as Bordeaux could willingly embrace change. The strict hierarchy of Bordeaux’s classed growths, cemented in 1855, is as intransigent as it was in the 19th century. Bordeaux’s winemakers remain defined by the vines and the soil they inherit.

Plumpton: A new wine epicentre

Published: 16 May, 2019

As the founder of Plumpton College’s wine division prepares to depart for pastures new, Jo Gilbert finds out what the future holds for this rapidly evolving institution.

California: Western promise

Published: 13 May, 2019

A recent California Wines tasting convinced many that the Golden State is back on track. Andrew Catchpole reports on its refreshed identity

Bordeaux 2018 EP report & Gavin Quinney's Top 100

Published: 09 May, 2019

Gavin Quinney delivers his annual insights and scores (see below) on the Bordeaux 2018 vintage for a year he describes as “extraordinary”.

Local heroes abroad: GB wine exports rise

Published: 08 May, 2019

English and Welsh wines are on a real roll, and not just at home. Exports are expected to rise significantly over the next few years, reports Lisa Riley

What’s hot at this year’s LWF

Published: 07 May, 2019

With exhibitor numbers up significantly, LWF 2019 promises to be a better showcase than ever. Lisa Riley breaks down what visitors have to look forward to

Stuffed on staff?

Published: 03 May, 2019

Brexit is boosting British job uptake in hospitality, but a severe worker shortage continues to undermine the trade, as Andrew Catchpole reports.

Ten years of Tio Pepe En Rama

Published: 02 May, 2019

A decade ago, González Byass UK managed to shake up a moribund sherry category with Tio Pepe En Rama. Jo Gilbert dissects its success

Botanical battle

Published: 01 May, 2019

With sales still fast climbing, Andrew Catchpole asks if value can be locked in to future proof the category against peak gin

Has the king of fizz gone flat?

Published: 30 April, 2019

The Champenois are working to adapt and recover Champagne’s position in the UK. But there is division among its ranks about how best to engage with younger consumers. James Lawrence reports