Insights

The days of scores are numbered

Scores have driven sales in the US market for two decades or more but, says Jeff Siegel, there are signs their dominance is coming to an end.

Is it better to go with a big or small US wine distributor?

The big US distributors are merging. But, says Jim Clarke, this has opened opportunities with small distributors that smaller brands should consider.

The overlooked wine demographic

Women over 40 are one of the most lucrative of all consumer demographics and yet they are being ignored by most wine marketers. Charlotte Hey wants to know why

Is the wine customer always right?

The purpose of the small pour is for the customer to ensure the wine isn't corked. But what's the right response if the customer hates the wine? Robert Joseph offers some thoughts.

In defence of winemaking technology

Fans of natural wines claim that conventional winemakers are creating manipulated and artificial products. Robert Joseph hits back.

When will a wine label backfire?

Tank Garage Winery caused a small storm on social media this week, when they released a wine with a pornographic label. Is there a place for such labels?

What is the point of replica wines?

Like perfume makers that create copies of famous scents, a new group of people are copying well known wines. Robert Joseph considers the phenomenon.

Time to declare sweetness levels in wine

How much information do consumers need to know about their wines? Robert Joseph argues that sugar levels, at the very least, should be declared.

Bring back buttery wines

Should winemakers have to make styles they don't personally like, if there is consumer demand for them? Robert Joseph weighs in.

Russia looks at ban on Georgian wines

Tensions are once again flaring between Tbilisi and Moscow, with wine caught in the middle. Eugene Gerden reports.

When is wine judgement more than just opinion?

When faced with an unfamiliar or new style of wine, what is the fairest way for a wine professional to respond? Robert Joseph gets into an argument.

How the Supreme Court decision could upend the US wine market

The US wine market has been fragmented and difficult to navigate thanks to its three-tier sales system. A recent Supreme Court ruling may make life easier for US wine retailers - but could make life harder for wineries that rely on DtC sales. Liza B. Zimmerman reports.

Tier 1 trends in China

There are signs that engaged Chinese consumers are looking beyond red wines from traditional regions. Jim Boyce reports.

The battle over fungicides

The EU is tightening rules governing copper usage. Sophie Kevany looks at whether there are any real alternatives.

It's time to give Moscato some respect

It may be sweet and simple, but it's opening doors for new drinkers. Robert Joseph says the wine trade should show Moscato some love.