Sustainability in the wine industry: Reality or just a marketing strategy?

The term “sustainability” has become so prevalent in discussions about products and businesses that it risks turning into an empty catchphrase. In the wine industry, this concept is frequently mentioned, but do we truly understand its full scope, or is it just another marketing trend? The problem of definition One of the biggest challenges is […]
Elevating the Spirit: the premiumisation of rum

In recent years, the world of spirits has witnessed a fascinating transformation, with the premiumisation trend making waves across various categories. One such category experiencing a remarkable ascent is rum. The growing popularity of cocktails, both in on-trade establishments and at home, is propelling rum into the spotlight, particularly within the super-premium and ultra-premium segments. […]
Decoding Wine Descriptors: My Cultural Journey in China

Living in China profoundly impacted my understanding of wine and its cultural significance. My passion for wine, initially cultivated through Western experiences, encountered a significant challenge in this new context. I became preoccupied with my inability to discuss wine effectively with locals. The challenge was not just linguistic; it was also about the vastly different […]
Gen Z and the wine in moderation movement: Shaping the future of responsible drinking

In the rich tapestry of wine culture, where the appreciation of wine is as much about understanding its history and production as it is about enjoying its flavors, the industry is witnessing a pivotal shift. This shift is not just towards appreciating wine but also emphasizing the importance of responsible drinking, especially among the younger […]
Adapting to the Chinese Market: Wine Industry’s New Frontier in Social Media and Consumer Trends

Living in China for four years, starting from my arrival in 2014, was an eye-opening experience, especially as a marketer trying to navigate its unique digital world. The tools and consumer behavior in China are vastly different from what we’re accustomed to in the West. A decade ago, one of the most striking observations was […]
Pantone’s 2024 Spring color trends: bold transformation, even for the wine industry

The world of fashion and design is ever-evolving, with colors playing a pivotal role in setting the tone for each season. Pantone, the global authority on color, recently unveiled its top color trends for Spring 2024, and these shades are all about bold transformation. But how do these color trends influence industries beyond fashion, specifically […]
Do all wines need to be complex?

I was at a winery stand during a professional wine fair. A lady approached me to taste rosé wines with a maximum RRP of 4-5€. I showed her an excellent Bobal varietal from Castilla, which offers unbeatable value for money. Her response was that it wasn’t complex enough. I was taken aback. I was almost […]
The evolution and future of wine scoring systems

Introduction The wine scoring systems have not only served as evaluative tools but have also significantly influenced the wine market since their inception in the 20th century. These methods have transformed over time, mirroring the shifting dynamics of the wine industry and consumer behavior. Historical Context Wine scoring, which can be traced back to several […]
The glitter ban across Europe

A Sparkling Debate In a world where environmental concerns are increasingly coming to the forefront, Europe has taken a bold step by implementing a continent-wide ban on glitter. This shimmering, seemingly innocuous substance has been a staple in celebrations, cosmetics, and crafts for decades. However, beneath its dazzling surface lies a less-than-sparkling truth: glitter, primarily […]
A Shift Towards Mindful Drinking

In the realm of lifestyle and wellness, the narrative surrounding alcohol consumption has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade. There was a time when moderate social drinking was not only normalized but also occasionally touted as part of a healthy lifestyle. The image of enjoying a glass of red wine, often associated with […]