Wine production in Africa has been gaining recognition, with traditional powerhouses like South Africa leading the charge. However, new wine frontiers are emerging across the continent, driven by innovative viticulture, unique terroirs, and growing domestic and international demand. Here’s an overview: South Africa is an established wine region and known for Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek, […]
[part-1] Sip or Skip? The Wine & Spirits Dilemma Amid Cancer Concerns
The recent advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General highlights the direct link between alcohol consumption and increased cancer risk. All forms of alcohol (wine and spirits), are associated with higher risks for several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and throat cancers. Given this information, it’s crucial for all organizations (public and private) to consider […]
[Part 2] Developments in the South African Wine Industry
Key Players Shaping the African Wine Industry The African wine industry is evolving rapidly, driven by innovative practices, strategic partnerships, and market expansion. Key players like Kanonkop Wine Estates, Vinpro, The GEN-Z Vineyard Project, Winetech, and prominent figures such as Rico Basson are at the forefront of this transformation. Historic Foundations and Leading Estates The […]
Part 1. Africa’s Wine Journey
Emerging Wine Market Africa is making significant strides in the global wine market, transitioning from grape growing and production to becoming a notable player in wine consumption and export. This dynamic shift is driven by innovative practices, strategic partnerships, and a growing appreciation for high-quality wines across the continent. As African vineyards flourish and local […]
Abruzzo’s Distinctive Wines: Forged by the Power of Mountains and the Sea
Abruzzo’s wines embody a unique blend of tradition, indigenous grape varieties, and expressive terroir. Located in central Italy, Abruzzo is bordered by the Apennine Mountains to the west and the Adriatic Sea to the east, creating ideal microclimates that enrich its vineyards. The region’s high-altitude slopes and coastal plains generate diverse microclimates, producing a wide […]
Spain Has a Secret: Catilla Y Leon Wines
The wines of Castilla y León, despite their quality and diversity, are less globally known than wines from Italy or France due to several historical, cultural, and market-driven factors. It is important to note that France and Italy have been the historic titans of the wine world for centuries. Regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, Tuscany, and […]
Garda DOC: A Powerhouse in Italy’s Wine Economy
Italy is renowned for its diverse and high-quality wines, with each region contributing unique varieties and styles. A notable region is Garda DOC (Denomination of Controlled Origin), located in northeast Italy, covering parts of Verona, Mantua, and Brescia provinces around Lake Garda. This area offers an ideal climate for viticulture due to the Lake’s influence […]
2023: A Milestone Year for Cava Sales
Global Sparkling Wine Market The global sparkling wine market is projected to generate $45.1 billion in revenue in 2024. This figure is split between out-of-home consumption (e.g., in restaurants and bars) at $24.4 billion and at-home sales (e.g., supermarkets and convenience stores) amounting to $21 billion. However, the market is expected to experience a slight […]
Spanish Wines Struggle Globally: France and Italy Dominate
According to the trade group, Wines from Spain, Spanish exports to the US were down 8% by volume and 3.7% by dollars. To be fair, 2021 sales were the strongest since 2017, driven by post-Covid recovery, which might make this year’s comparison seem worse. Still, volume and dollar figures have been flat since then, with […]
Kamala Harris’s Presidential Run, Building on a Legacy of Civil Rights, Justice, and Economic Opportunity
I recently attended a screening of a documentary that delved into the motivations and career of Angela Davis. Often misrepresented by the media, Davis stood as a figure of unwavering strength, deeply convinced that she was on the right side of history. As I watched, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between Davis and Kamala […]