OWC The Balvenie has unveiled its oldest whisky to date, an 88-year-old single malt distilled in 1931. The 43.2% ABV whisky forms the centrepiece of The Balvenie 1931 Collection, which also includes limited edition 12- and 15-year-old expressions. Bottled in 2019, just 17 bottles of the 88-year-old whisky exist. It was distilled on 5th March 1931 and filled into European oak Sherry butt #239, sourced from Jerez, Spain, where it remained in The Balvenie’s warehouse for 88 years. Master distiller Kelsey McKechnie stated that the decision to bottle the whisky was driven by flavour and balance, rather than its age alone.
OWC One of England’s most legendary vineyards has been put up for sale following the death of the winemaker who created it. Breaky Bottom vineyard was established in 1974 by Peter Hall, A pioneer who was central in the development of English wine. The vineyard located in the Sussex Downs near Lewes, set in 15 acres of which approximately 6 acres contain vines, is on the market for four million pounds. Peter died on October 2nd last year at the age of 82 after spending more than 50 years cultivating vines and producing wine.
OWC Contemporary reporting identified at least 10 Whisky distilleries/distilling companies filing for bankruptcy during 2025 in the USA. At the end of last year 69 Scottish distillers were classified as being in financial distress, nearly 20% of the sector. There is no global registry that records insolvencies by whisky distilleries, however these are tough times for producers wherever they are based.
OWC Pubs, bars and hotels report a ‘Burnham bounce’ in optimism following their business rates cut. The average pub pays between £7000 - £10,000 in business rates in England. According to a survey by multiple trade bodies, 37% of businesses in the sector now feel that the government will benefit hospitality and brewing, which is collectively worth about £100bn to the economy. Optimism isn't enough though and the feeling is that it will soon evaporate if further tax cuts are not put in place.
OWC The major Gironde fire that began around 21–22 July burned roughly 42,000 hectares (420 km²) before being contained around 1 August. It devastated forests around Le Porge, Lacanau, Saumos and the Cap Ferret/Arcachon area, west and southwest of Bordeaux. At their closest, the fires came to within about 15 km (9 miles) of Bordeaux city. Most of the famous Bordeaux vineyard districts—Saint-Émilion, Pomerol, Graves, Médoc and the central vineyard areas—were largely spared direct fire damage. Smoke was a wider concern. Ash reportedly reached Libourne, more than 100 km from the main fire, raising concerns about possible smoke exposure to vines, although there was no evidence at the time of significant grape damage.
OWC There are many splendid wines coming out of South America, but if you have ever wondered how much wine people drink, from the nations that make up this vast continent here are some facts and figures for you. Argentina leads the way by far, with an impressive 24 litres per person each year. Right behind are Uruguay (23.8 L) and Chile (21.8 L), reflecting their strong wine cultures and thriving domestic industries. Meanwhile, in the tropical north, wine takes a back seat to other drinks. Countries like Venezuela (0.1 L), Guyana (0.1 L), and Suriname (0.3 L) see very little wine consumption, possibly due to cultural preferences and limited local production. Brazil stands out with 2 litres per person, modest compared to its southern neighbours despite being South America’s giant.
OWC Welsh winemakers are bidding to establish the world’s first Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) explicitly dedicated to natural wine. It us currently undergoing formal review by Defra, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. To qualify for the Natural Wine of Wales designation, producers must follow rigid production rules. 100% Welsh Grown: Grapes must be grown and entirely processed within Wales. Clean Farming: Vineyards must practice organic, regenerative, or biodynamic farming on certified estates. Spontaneous Fermentation: Fermentation must occur naturally using native yeasts, strictly outlawing industrial yeasts. Zero Cellar Additives: The use of synthetic chemicals, processing aids, or industrial additives is prohibited. Minimal Sulphur: Added sulphites are restricted heavily and are only permitted in small amounts during bottling.
OWC An investigation published by The Telegraph revealed that more than half of the award-winning wines on supermarket shelves are considered mediocre by the experts judging them. Critics argue that these medals have become ubiquitous commercial sales drivers rather than definitive seals of superior quality.
OWC The Comité Champagne (CIVC) has announced that the region will limit its marketable yield for the 2026 harvest to 8,800kg per hectare, which translates to approximately 250 million bottles. Still a lot of bottles but the lowest production limit in the modern history of the appellation. The reason - Rebalancing Stock Levels: The reduction marks the fourth consecutive annual cut in yields. Market Alignment: The strategy protects the economic viability of the vineyards and maintains value standards rather than overproducing wine the market cannot immediately absorb. A Tough Growing Season: The decision also takes into account a highly complex agricultural year. The vineyards were impacted by early-season frost damage, extreme heatwaves in June, and localized drought.
OWC If you are not aware the late Dolly Parton has her own wine brand - Dolly Wines - a collaboration involving Dolly Parton, Parton Family Cellars and Accolade Wines. In the UK, the range includes Rosé and Prosecco.
