Wine Business - Wine News

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AmericanWinery.com Places Winery Partners in Major Product Portals

The company now lists its entire inventory of wines for sale on the top Internet wine portals, including Wine-searcher.com, WineZap.com, Snooth.com, Yahoo! Shopping and Shopzilla.

Understanding Red Wine's Potential Benefit for Diabetes

New research suggests that resveratrol, a chemical commonly found in red wine, has the ability to lower blood sugar levels, but might have certain untoward side effects.

OR: LIVE Presents WVV's Jim Bernau First Founder's Award

LIVE, Inc. (Low Input Viticulture & Enology) presented Willamette Valley Vineyards (WVV) Founder and President Jim Bernau with the organization's first Founder's Award at its Annual Meeting.

Equal Footing for Michigan Wines

Michigan wineries could be ideally positioned to capitalize on the locavore trend--but they might have to be a little sneaky about it at first.

CA: OSHA investigates vineyard worker's deadly accident

A state investigation into the tragic vineyard worker's death earlier this month is under way. However, no information will be released until the case is closed.

Australia: Wine group urges more research before boosting alcohol tax

The Upper Hunter Winemakers Association believes more research needs to be done before the Federal Government increases taxes on wine to curb binge drinking.

New winery organization to promote Lake County

A brand new organization of wineries that aims to promote Lake County as a wine region paired with the county to host hotel representatives Tuesday and Wednesday.

Private equity works the vineyard with $250 million fund targeting wineries

There's no shortage of wine enthusiasts in the Bay Area's private equity and venture capital firms, but few of their investment dollars pour into the wine business.

Del., Pa. feud over wine labels

The former Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board chairman's growing commercial presence in Delaware liquor stores has Philadelphia lawyers squawking, local wine lovers raving and shop owners rejoicing.

Watered-down EU wine reform ratified

The European Council has finally approved watered-down wine reforms originally proposed two years ago.

A case of the chills; As nighttime temperatures hover around the zero mark, grape growers keep close watch on budding vines

That's the consensus of several Niagara grape growers who've been nervously eyeing the thermometer as night temperatures dip below freezing.

Home wine ruling a shock

Organizers and others stunned that state ABC would say events like Harvest Fair are against the law

Late frost in dry year bad news for grape growers

"The number of calls we've received has been unprecedented," said Chris Maloney of Chris Maloney Crop Insurance Services in Petaluma, "We've opened well over 200 Notices of Damage on behalf of our policy-holders just this week."

Second apple moth in three months: not exactly a plague, but controls in place

The discovery in Sonoma of a second moth on Sunday, April 20,will raise no thought to spraying, said Sonoma Agricultural Commissioner Lisa Correia. But it will trigger a quarantine.

Wine lovers queue to buy new release of Aussie Grange

The latest vintage of Australia's best known wine, Grange, went on sale on Thursday with investors and drinkers queuing up to hand over the hefty A$550 ($516) asking price.

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Why French Millennials Don't Drink Wine

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COPIA to Open Bistro and Wine Bar Featuring Largest Tasting Room on West Coast

New Tasting Room and Bistro, Update to Julia's Kitchen Restaurant Signal Start of Growth and Redirection for COPIA

Assembly OKs Lodi wine bill

The proposal adds Lodi's wine appellation to existing law covering Napa and Sonoma that requires any wine labeled "Lodi" be made from at least 75 percent of grapes grown in the area.

MA: Weather something to whine about

It's no surprise that weather in New England is always unpredictable. But this year, because of some unseasonably warm weather, one winery is facing some real challenges.

Spanish vineyard cuts alcohol content for survival

Global warming may be the latest threat to the wine industry, but a clutch of producers in one of Spain's hardest-hit regions say they've found a way to survive and even profit from it.

IA: Grape growers form official association

"We want to encourage viticulture and promote the grape growing industry in Iowa," said Norm Lewman, of Sac City, a grape grower and long-time winemaker who is helping to establish the Northwest Iowa Grape Growers Association.

NZ: Wine exports up 16 per cent to $766m

New Zealand wine exports revenues have reached a record high of $766 million, up 16 per cent.

NZ Wine Company harvest up 44pc

The New Zealand Wine Company said today its 2008 grape crush had risen 44 per cent, with higher yields and rain during the harvest.

Wine lovers queue to buy new release of Aussie Grange

The latest vintage of Australia's best known wine, Grange, went on sale on Thursday with investors and drinkers queuing up to hand over the hefty A$550 ($516) asking price.

Australia: Wine company fined $60,000 over slasher injury

One of Australia's best-known wine makers has been fined $60,000 over a slasher accident at one of its West Australian vineyards.

UK: JD Wetherspoon attempts world wine tasting record

JD Wetherspoon pubs are holding a synchronised wine tasting in an attempt to create a new Guinness World Record.

Outspoken Mac McDonald of Vision Cellars bridges gap between African Americans and the wine industry

Spend 10 minutes visiting with Mac McDonald, and within the same breath he'll likely pontificate on his favorite wine grapes and a recent visit to Harlem. To the 65-year-old winemaker, the color of his Pinot Noir is just as significant as the color of his skin.

Chronicle Wine Selections: Single-Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

The Russian River Valley, one of California's notable Pinot Noir regions, produces wine with plenty of cherry and red berry fruit. Cooling wind and fog flow through the Petaluma Wind Gap, causing evening temperatures to drop; the growing season is slightly longer, allowing more time for grapes to ripen and flavor.

Folio pours on the charm in Carneros

On the flat map of the world printed on Folio's promotional material, green shading indicates the countries and continents Folio Fine Wine Partners embraces in its Napa-based business. It reminds one of a colonial power of old, with outposts spread around the globe.

2006 Kerpen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Mosel Artist Label Spatlese* Riesling ($33)

The concept: German winery Heribert Kerpen has been sponsoring an on-site wine and cultural festival for 20 years. Each year, a new artist designs an original wine label for the Kerpen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Artist Label Spatlese* Riesling.

Wine company fined $60,000 over slasher injury

Safety watchdog WorkSafe WA said an experienced vineyard worker had her foot dragged into the moving parts of a slasher while cutting long grass at the company's Karridale vineyard in November 2005.

Spanish vineyard cuts alcohol content for survival

Global warming may be the latest threat to the wine industry, but a clutch of producers in one of Spain's hardest-hit regions say they've found a way to survive and even profit from it.

Need to deal with water needs crucial

Two parched years - punctuated by the driest spring in at least 150 years - could force districts across California to ration water this summer as policymakers and scientists grow increasingly concerned that the state is on the verge of a long-term drought.

All salmon fishing banned on West Coast

Salmon fishing was banned along the West Coast for the first time in 160 years Thursday, a decision that is expected to have a devastating economic impact on fishermen, dozens of businesses, tourism and boating.

Grape growers call in reinforcements; threat of frost brings in choppers

Residents living in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Virgil who were roused from their slumber in the wee small hours to the sound of choppers whirring overhead might appreciate the early-morning wake-up call next time they look for a vintage vino.

The wine tasting scene continues to grow in downtown

It's now difficult to believe that when Vintners Collective and Napa Wine Merchants opened five years ago, the only dedicated wine tasting salon in downtown Napa was Bayview Cellars in Napa Traditions.

Who Buys Wine Direct? Winery marketing people learn about their customers at Napa symposium

How many winery marketing directors would have guessed that some of their other big customers are in Reno, Nev., Birmingham, Ala., Charlottesville, Va., and Bend, Ore.? Or that these customers 10 favorite magazines do not include Gourmet and Vanity Fair, but do include Wired and GamePro?

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Florida Remains Open to Direct Shipping for 2008 as Production Cap Bill Languishes

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Pennsylvania wine enthusiasts stomp on shipment proposal

The object of their concern is a bill introduced by Rep. Paul Costa, D-Wilkins, that would require all wine orders to be routed through a state store or distribution center. Customers would either pick it up themselves or, for an extra fee, have it delivered to their home. All applicable taxes would apply.

Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. Selects Paxonix to Automate and Streamline Global Packaging Process for New Product Introductions

Fourth largest premium spirits company in the world relies on PaxPro to increase speed to market, improve efficiencies, and reduce costs

2 Mondavis strive to give a landmark winery a bigger place on the map

Sales have been rising for labels produced by the family's Charles Krug operation, Napa Valley's oldest. A renovation is aimed at drawing more visitors.

Wine Trail seeks to lure tourists to Alabama's wineries

The Mountain Lakes Tourist Association came up with the Alabama Wine Trail to lure visitors to the state's eight wineries, including two in the area.

Soaring dollar punishing Australia's wine sales

While exports reached a record $3.02 billion last year, experts say a combination of drought, the high dollar and foreign competition means the industry now faces significant challenges.

All Aboard the Spring Lake Winery "Wine Train"

Starting the last Sunday of this month (May 25th), and running through October 26th, passengers can climb aboard for a 1/2-day excursion in vintage 1947 Budd coaches through the beautiful Niagara County countryside, complete with a Continental breakfast onboard the train, to the Spring Lake Winery for a wine tasting at the Tuscan-style stone winery, with lunch on the grill and music by an 18-piece jazz band as they relax by the picturesque 8-acre lake.

Mondavi to be honored at awards luncheon

The Napa Chamber Foundation and Mechanics Bank have announced they will give a special "Living Legend" award to Robert Mondavi at the Napa Valley Community Awards "Celebrating Community" luncheon on May 20.

Petite Sirah (Not Syrah!) Gets Fan Club as Growers Get Serious

You know a wine has an image problem when it needs its own advocacy group. Which is why there is the California-based PS I Love You Inc.

California wine? Down the drain

Too much technology and a desire to play to the critics have produced overblown, overpriced vintages.

Why French Millennials Don't Drink Wine

While wine consumption is increasing in the U.S. -- spurred on in part by the wine adoption habits of American Millennials (young adults aged 21 to 31) -- the opposite is happening in France. Since 1980 French wine consumption has decreased by more than 50% from 120 liters per capita to today's rate of 55 liters per capita.

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Silicon Valley Bank Releases Annual Wine Industry Report

"The fine wine industry in particular is dealing with a lot of obstacles -- a potential recession, an emerging grape shortage, sluggish restaurant sales, distributor consolidation, foreign competition and higher manufacturing costs to name a few," said Rob McMillan, founder of Silicon Valley Bank's Wine Division and author of the report. "What will separate successful wineries from the rest, more than any other factor, will be their ability to market and sell their wine effectively."

CA: ABC puts kibosh on home wine contests

Last week a long-forgotten law on the books at the Department of Alcohol Beverage Control was brought to the public's attention. According to the law, wine can be made from home for personal consumption, but that doesn't include entering contests or even sharing a bottle at a neighbor's house.

2 Mondavis strive to give a landmark winery a bigger place on the map

Sales have been rising for labels produced by the family's Charles Krug operation, Napa Valley's oldest. A renovation is aimed at drawing more visitors.

OR: Local wine industry experiences growth

Interest in Southern Oregon wine is growing. Five years ago, nearly 30 wineries existed, today there are over 55.

Cornell planning student winery

Cornell University announced plans last month for a 2,400-square-foot teaching winery to be built alongside the school's Pomology Cold Storage Building, on the south side of campus by the orchards.

CA: Local vineyards hit by unusual frost

Local wine-grape growers could lose up to 10 percent or more of their crop from an unusual spring frost that struck in late April.

California vintners assessing damage from late cold snap fear smaller harvests

April was a cruel month for California winemakers, bringing a series of unusually late frosts to vineyards baring the tender, green shoots of spring.

Australia: Wine industry warned on climate change

Grape growers are being warned to take climate change more seriously.

A New Wine Legacy For EOS

Winemaker Nathan Carlson has been appointed Director of Wine Making at the Paso Robles EOS winery.

Japan: Osaka govt stuck with 5 mil. yen wine collection

A collection of 157 bottles of vintage wine owned by the Osaka municipal government remains in the cellar of a wine museum in Suminoe Ward in the city, even though the facility and the museum have closed due to low visitor numbers.

NZ: Cafe admits serving detergent instead of wine

Two women had to be hospitalised after a cafe poured them a glass of dishwashing liquid instead of mulled wine, the Queenstown District Court was told yesterday.

Australian Vintage sells winery

Australian Vintage Ltd has agreed to sell its 90,000 tonne Loxton Winery and Austflavour business to India's largest wine producer, Champagne Indage Ltd, for $60 million.

Susan Sokol Blosser Honored for Lifetime Achievement

The latest honor for the Oregon wine pioneer and environmental leader came this past Saturday as Women for WineSense awarded Sokol Blosser its Lifetime Achievement Award at its "Celebrating Women in Wine" event in Napa Valley.

Aetna Springs Resort to be Restored

The success of Bill Harlan's Napa Valley Reserve, a members-only vineyard and winery, has spawned an imitator in another part of Napa County. The developers of Calistoga Ranch have bought historic 650-acre Aetna Springs Resort in Pope Valley, and are developing a private club and winery on the property.

A Wine Rite-of-Passage in the Ozark Highlands

The Ozark Highlands is an appellation without pretension, where the wine speaks for the land and for itself. Come along for an introductory trip on this lesser-known Missouri wine trail.

Merger creates $4.6 billion ag lender

Sacramento Valley Farm Credit has merged with an agricultural lending cooperative almost five times its size, creating a company that spans 15 California counties and has assets of more than $4.6 billion.

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Bordeaux: prices from Quinault, Beychevelle, Rieussec

Among the first was Chateau Quinault L'Enclos, Saint Emilion grand cru, owned by Alain Raynaud (who got one of the best Parker scores of 91-93, bettering Lafite and Latour at 90-93). Despite the high score, he has come down around 15% from last year, selling to the Place at €20.

Bringing Wine Home

In effort to avoid shipping regulation problems, many wineries encourage visitors to pack bottles with luggage.

Newton Vineyard Names Chris Millard Winemaker

In this role, Chris oversees the production of the winery's highly acclaimed wines, including the Unfiltered Chardonnay and its Bordeaux-style red wines from the estate on Spring Mountain in St. Helena.

Australia: Climate pact for wine industry

An agreement is being signed by wine industry groups and the South Australian Government aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions in wine production.

Washington Wines Festival Announces "Wine Weekend" to Benefit Camp Korey, Hole in the Wall Camps and Washington Wine Education Foundation

This exclusive event featuring two days of fun, relaxation and entertainment will be held July 11 & 12, 2008 at the future site of Camp Korey at Carnation Farm and will raise funds to ensure children with serious illnesses have a place to play and "just be kids."

UK: Bread, wine and honey feel the worldwide burn

Lovers of Australian wine will be dismayed that many producers could go out of business this year as a punishing drought in the south of the country has taken a devastating toll on vineyards.

D.C. Bill Would Allow Leftover Wine To Be Taken Home

A D.C. Council member introduced a bill Tuesday that would let restaurant-goers in the District put a cork in a bottle of wine and take it home.

Wine Purveyors To Donate Towards Women's Health Causes

Vino 100 has partnered with Hope Wine during the month of May to raise awareness of women's health issues by offering a California Chardonnay that benefits Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Sheila R. Veloz Breast Imaging Center.

PLCB thirsts for more sales

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board plans to become a "world-class retailer" of wine and spirits.

UK: Wine tasting world record attempt

A British bar manager is calling on customers to take part in a world record wine tasting event.

New Touring Guide for Ontario Wine Regions Available

Touring the province's wine regions has never been so easy and fun thanks to the new 2008 Official Guide to the Wineries of Ontario which offers extensive information and tips on the best scenery, gourmet cuisine and world class wines - all right in your backyard.

Malibu's backyard vintners

Emilio Estevez isn't the winemaker in Malibu. Acreage is scarce, the climate's tricky, water is an issue -- and it seems everyone has to have a vineyard.

On Wine: Trefethen's 40 years of estate expression

Forty years later, Trefethen Family Vineyards has the distinction of never having used a grape from outside the estate, although "there certainly were times when we should have," jokes John Trefethen, Eugene and Katie's son.

Silicon Valley Bank Releases Annual Wine Industry Report

Silicon Valley Bank, a leading provider of commercial banking services to the wine industry, released its annual "State of the Wine Industry Report" today.

PA: Selling wine from kiosks misses point

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board deserves credit for creative thinking as it tries to stave off Pennsylvania consumers' rejection of state-run liquor stores.

Neal Newsom's grapes are coveted by the top Texas wineries

Unlike most growers in Texas, the Newsoms have no winery. They just grow grapes - the state's most sought-after grapes.

Sonoma hit with apple moth quarantine

A 15-square mile area, including hundreds of Sonoma Valley homes and 2,500 surrounding acres of wine grapes, has come under state quarantine in an effort to eradicate the light brown apple moth from Sonoma County.

Influential US critic gives Bordeaux 2007 thumbs down

"There is unquestionably little need to buy these wines as futures, unless dramatic price reductions occur. I don't expect that to happen," said Parker in his annual vintage review, titled "2007 Bordeaux: Who Will Buy Them and at What Price?"

There's no icon like Robert Mondavi

But who is there to continue his American wine vision?

New license required to ship wine directly into Illinois

Beginning June 1, 2008, all wineries shipping directly to Illinois residents must have a State of Illinois Winery Shipper's License prior to delivery. With the passage of House Bill 429 and resultant signing of Public Act 095-0634 by Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich, wineries with an approved license will be allowed to ship up to 12 cases of wine each year per adult Illinois resident.

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Family Winemakers and Western Fairs Association Co-Sponsor Legislation to Fix Home Winemaking Law

oving swiftly to address a problem with California's alcoholic beverage statutes, Family Winemakers of California and the Western Fairs Association are teaming up to co-sponsor SB 607 (Wiggins) to allow home winemakers to continue participating in judging competitions.

Wine shopping spree

Leslie Rudd has followed his 2007 investment in Windsor Vineyards by adding three new wine properties in the last four months to a growing stable of wine brands.

Castel buys Oenoalliance

Castel, France's largest wine company, has bought Bordeaux wine merchant Oenoalliance. Oenoalliance employs 87 people, handles 40m bottles of wine annually, and has a turnover of €45m.

Illinois Opens to Direct Shipping

Self-distribution to retail also an option for small producers

Grape growers still assessing effects of chill

Unusually late frosts may have damaged plants, but some report the problems are not widespread

Australia: China looms as wine growth market

The United States and the UK aren't importing as much Australian wine as they used to , but China's demand is growing.

Australian wine exports run dry

Australia saw wine exports fall in both volume and value for the year to April, as the country continued to lose ground in the key US and UK markets.

The Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation says the climbing Australian dollar has hurt the country's wine exports during the past year.

Figures from the corporation show the volume of wine exported fell by 8.5 per cent for the 12 months until the end of April.

NZ: Recognition for a pioneering winemaker

Marlborough's first winemaker, David Herd, has been formally recognised more than a century after his death with the erection of a statue outside Blenheim Airport.

Australia: Deal will stop wine getting a smoky taste

Tasmania's wine industry and Forestry Tasmania have struck a deal to stop smoke damage to wine.

Deep fruit freeze devastates Okanagan orchards; grapes escape

Although grapes were largely unaffected by the cold snap, Okanagan vineyard owners and managers say it was a lucky escape.

Canada: Help show us off, wineries plead with county council

Essex County wineries are proud of their product and want residents and visitors to know about it.

Australia: Winery water success story

Barossa winery waste water is being used to water vineyards at Nuriootpa.

PA Liquor Control Board Launches Customer-Focused Transformation With New Partnership For Wine Selection

Future Improvements Include Store Redesigns, New Commitment to Customer Service and Better Shopping Experiences In-Store, Online

Frost damage losses mount across California

Although an official tally of crop losses due to freezing temperatures in mid-April is still being compiled, the economic impact is expected to be in the multi-million-dollar range.

Though corks evolve, ritual remains

The ritual of the cork was a hallowed tradition of restaurant wine service. The waiter arrived with the bottle, removed the foil capsule, worked the worm of the corkscrew into the cork, and slowly withdrew the cork, producing that satisfying "thwock."

PA: Wine Advisory Council Picked For State

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board announced Wednesday that it's forming a wine advisory council for the state.

Gallo targets wine drinkers in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe will be a key frontier for wine firms over the next few years, the head of E&J Gallo in Europe says.

Sonomans cope with moth quarantine

Grape growers, nursery managers, a vegetable farmer and at least 15,000 residents are learning the rules that come with fighting an invasive pest from Australia. The quarantine's full impact may not be known for months or years.

Moth-spraying foes plan events in S.F., Marin

Opponents of aerial spraying to eradicate the light brown apple moth, which officials fear could ravage the state's agriculture business, have scheduled two public events for this week to air their concerns.

Sonoma council puts up 'no-spray' sign

Resolution asks state to focus on least-toxic control methods for moth

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Negotiators in Congress finish $286 billion farm bill

he bill totals roughly $1.3 billion for a variety of grants, research and marketing assistance targeting specialty crops and organic agriculture. The specialty crop spending would be several times more than was provided in the last farm bill, written in 2002.

The Fourth Annual Wine Industry Technology Symposium Announces Session Topics

Wine Industry Technology Symposium (WITS)™, the premier event showcasing strategic use of information technology and services for the wine industry, today announces session topics for its fourth annual conference on July 14-15, 2008 at the Marriot Napa Valley.

Quarantined Sonoma Growers Anxious

Will grapes from a 15-square-mile area be in jeopardy from apple moth precautions?

Little Black Dress Wines Updates Award Winning Portfolio

Little Black Dress Wines is expanding its award-winning line with the addition of a 2006 Pinot Noir sourced from France, and will introduce Chardonnay in a traditional Burgundy package with the 2007 vintage release.

Southern Wine & Spirits of America, Inc. Announces Launch of Southern Wine & Spirits University

The new curriculum and comprehensive sales, operational and management training programs now in development will formally and professionally enhance core educational and developmental priorities across the Company's entire corporate structure.

Australia: Forestry drinks to new pact with wine industry

Forestry Tasmania has struck an agreement with the state's wine industry on regeneration burns.

Vintage Michael Broadbent: Britain's elder statesman of wine as edgy as ever

My chat with Broadbent falls at cocktail hour in the office of his son Bartholomew, who runs a San Francisco wine import business.

Up and Down the Wine Roads with George Starke

Baby, it was cold out there: That would be when the night temperatures dove down into the 20s last week; the grapevines shivered and the result was a devastating freeze locally.

The role of GMOs in Napa Valley wine production raises concerns

In three Napa Valley Register articles published last week, the genetically modified yeasts and genetically engineered grapevines that are being developed at universities around the country-or insinuating themselves into the winemaking industry in California and elsewhere.

Vermeil doing just vine nowadays

Never had so many of the mysterious and little understood Charbonos been collected under a single roof. And now Vermeil, who had taken the Rams and Eagles to the Super Bowl, was down to his last shot, the 2005 vintage, Frediani Vineyard, from his Calistoga winery, On the Edge.

Wine tourism booms in Prosser as more wineries cluster in town

It was less than four years ago that Wade Wolfe built the first winery in a neighborhood of new streets and empty lots that only marmots called home.

Assembly approves Evans' bill to aid in donating wine for fundraising events

AB 1964 increases from one to three the number of temporary alcohol licenses a nonprofit can obtain each year from the Department of Alcoholic Beverages Control to conduct wine dinner and wine auction fundraisers.

Off the shelf

Off the Shelf" debuts today. Each week we'll feature a bottle that retails for $15 or less in Bay Area stores. Got a favorite for your dinner table? Let us know at wine@sfchronicle.com.

FIRST LOOK: Acme Fine Wines

Given what they do, it's almost surprising that David Stevens and Karen Williams would trade out their signless back office in a St. Helena building for a proper retail shop. In-the-know wine lovers call the two partners in Acme Fine Wines to help them find the next big thing in cult Napa Valley bottles.

Vintage Michael Broadbent: Britain's elder statesman of wine as edgy as ever

Rule No. 1 of interview etiquette: When offered a glass of Madeira, accept.

Drink in the history at a celebrated Napa winery

Anyone serious about wine has to make the pilgrimage to Stag's Leap Wine Cellars at some point. Founder Warren Winiarski is credited with being one of the first to understand Napa Valley's potential as a world-class winemaking region. His 1973 Stag's Leap Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon won the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, forever changing the reputation of California wine

THE CHRONICLE SELECTIONS: Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

Fifty-four wines were tasted in this category, which is about the same number as last week's single-vineyard wines. Similar numbers were recommended for both - 16 this week and 19 last week - though there were higher overall rankings for the single-vineyard bottlings, as might be expected.

Toast of the Valley: Introducing the Ella Fitzgerald Brut Rose

Domaine Carneros will release the 2004 Ella Fitzgerald Brut Rosé at a special event at the winery May 16 "Ella" will be served along with other Domaine Carneros wines while the "Black Olive Jazz" quartet performs a repertoire of Ella Fitzgerald songs.

Aussie problems

Australia is facing major problems. A drought is now in its seventh year, and many areas of the country were hit by severe frost problems last winter, devastating the crop.

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Portuguese cork manufacturer launches a recycling program

At the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, in the wine classes alone, Crystal Collins, the wine studies program coordinator, estimates they collect up to 900 corks a day from the bottles they open

New Vine expands Napa headquarters

- New Vine Logistics, a major player in helping fulfill winery shipments directly to consumers, has signed the largest Napa Valley office lease so far this year as the company expands its services for helping wineries navigate the maze of interstate and now international direct shipments.

Scholz: Behind the scenes of Idaho's wine industry

The well-known publication Wine Press Northwest designated Indian Creek as Idaho's 2008 Winery Of The Year.

Wine aficionados get scammed in 'The Billionaire's Vinegar'

Perhaps the best analysis of "The Billionaire's Vinegar" comes from one of Will Smith's partners in optioning the film rights. As he said: "For me, the movie is the unraveling of a mystery that comes down to a guy who punked the wine world."

Spanish vintners work on less potent wines

Global warming may be the latest threat to the wine industry, but some producers in one of Spain's hardest-hit regions say they've found a way to survive and even profit from it.

Cabernet Sauvignon's Ancient Roots

Author traces variety to first-century Greece

Vineyard fire caused by downed power line

The quarter-acre fire began at 5 a.m. at the Upvalley vineyard, located at 3331 Highway 29 in St. Helena, according to Paul Duncan, CalFire fire chief

China will be leading wine producer by 2058

This is the according to a new document out from Berry Bros & Rudd entitled 'The Future of Wine Report'.

SoCal grape grower settles suit for $500,000

The lawsuit, filed in 2002 by five workers, claimed that Bagdasarian violated state law by not requiring workers to take an unpaid half-hour lunch break and allowing them to take a single 20-minute break instead of two 10-minute breaks.

B. C.'s grape pioneers

Bill Ahrens wipes a thin layer of dusty sweat from his brow and looks back on his day's work, 100 poles driven into a gently sloped field that overlooks the Grand Forks river valley deep in the dry southern heart of British Columbia.

Bush, Congress set for clash over $300B farm bill

President Bush is promising to veto the measure, which is expected to be on the House floor later this week and go to the Senate quickly thereafter.

Introducing Appellation America's Best-of-Appellation Evaluation Program

In the days, months, and years going forward we will be doing what our readers continually ask us to do. We're going to look at every appellation in North America, building an on-going, ever-developing picture of the mosaic of regional character and diversity that we hope will enrich our wine culture.

Justices to hear Pa. beer battle

Michael Cortez never dreamed he'd be heading to the highest court in the state over a six-pack of beer. But the vice president and general counsel for Sheetz Inc. will do just that Wednesday when his central Pennsylvania convenience-store chain appears before the Supreme Court to resolve a dispute over where beer can be sold in the state.

PA Liquor Control Board Launches Customer-Focused Transformation with New Partnership for Wine Selection

Future Improvements Include Store Redesigns, New Commitment to Customer Service and Better Shopping Experiences In-Store, Online

The do-it-yourself sommelier

...not all wine kits are created equal, said Paul Sass, owner of The Home Vintner, so it's possible to produce premium handcrafted wine from a kit that's more than capable of holding its own against top-dollar commercially produced labels.

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US threatens to block all Brunello imports

The United States has threatened to block all imports of Brunello di Montalcino from 9 June.

Terroir-izing California wine

So Alice Feiring, in her Op-Ed article, "California wine? Down the drain," on the Golden State's innovative and widely admired wine industry, thinks that "[d]ull, fruit-driven, alcoholic wines have become the incontrovertible wine identity of California."

Wine center expands to keep pace with Oregon vineyards

An afternoon drive through Yamhill County's wine country was all it took to convince Jeff Meader that he needed to dramatically expand what, even then, was the state's largest wine storage and shipping company.

Frost could boost Monterey County wine grape sales

April freezes in Northern California may have damaged up to 15 percent of California's wine grapes - but in milder Monterey County, that's good news for vintners.

Excerpt from 'The Billionaire's Vinegar'

Even after all these years, he still found it bracingly creative to conjure excitement out of a heap of dirty old bottles. No matter how many of them the fifty-eight-year-old Broadbent might see, he retained his boyish sense of marvel at the longevity of wine.

UK: Sainsbury's to launch wine style guide and new packaging

Sainsbury's will be launching a new consumer style guide for its wines at the same time it introduces new packaging for its own label wines in August.

UK: MP: Make pubs use 125ml wine glasses

The new Earl Day Motion (EDM) calls on the Government to "bring forward legislative proposals to require all wine selling on-trade establishments to provide the option of a 125ml measure".

IN: Bloomington winery plans to set up shop in Chesterton

By early June, area wine lovers will have another outlet to satisfy their needs. Bloomington-based Butler Winery and Vineyards is opening a tasting room and sales shop at 401 Broadway.

NC: Easley's 'sin taxes' called unlikely

Easley revealed his $21.5 billion budget plan Monday. He proposes paying for teacher raises by increasing taxes on cigarettes and funding mental-health reform with a higher alcohol tax.

Domaine Serene Makes Changes to Winemaking Staff

Today, Ken Evenstad, founder and owner of Domaine Serene Vineyards & Winery, announced that winemaker Tony Rynders has left to pursue other interests.

Judge halts moth spraying in Monterey County

State agriculture officials plan to appeal a superior court judge's ruling that halts aerial spraying to eradicate the light brown apple moth in Monterey County until an environmental impact report can be completed.

Alcohol Sales Linked to Neighborhood Violence

Canadian Researchers Find As Alcohol Sales Rise, So Do Assaults

Umpqua Bank Expands California Commercial Banking Team

Mark Brody, Senior Vice President and Manager, to Lead Commercial Banking in Napa Valley and San Francisco

East Bay water users may have to slash usage

Even after 15 or more years of relatively good rainfall, California's booming population leaves little room for error. Last week, the state Department of Water Resources warned that the Sierra Nevada snowpack - a key source of California's water supply - was only two-thirds of normal, and experts warned the state could be teetering on the edge of a long-term drought.

Rhône Rendezvous: Hospice still successful despite sagging economy

When it comes to the annual Hospice du Rhône (HdR) celebration on California's Central Coast, not even a slumping American economy can curb the enthusiasm of the wine industry specialists who attend it annually. The three-day celebration, which attracts more winemakers than it does consumers, sold out again this year with 1,100 Rhône aficionados from around the world crowding the exhibit halls at the California Mid-State Fair for the 26th HdR celebration.

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Farm Bill May Help Grapegrowers

For the first time this year, the proposed U.S. Farm Bill being debated in Congress features substantial benefits for specialty farmers, including winegrape growers, instead of just paying big commodity farmers.

US may block imports of Italian wine

The United States has threatened to block imports of Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy's most famous wines, unless it receives assurances over the type of grapes used.

NZ: Dairy and wine surge in the South

Dairy and wine are still pushing New Zealand's agriculture sector forward, with new figures released today confirming the South Island dairy boom and a surge in grape planting.

Who leads the points derby in Napa?

The Wine Spectator website archives the magazine's tasting notes and points awarded for thousands of wines. According to the magazine's database, as of this week Diamond Creek leads all Napa properties with 42 cabernets and Bordeaux blends scoring 90 points or more.

CA: Some wine grape growers turning to dry farming methods

Dry farming is something a few vintners are returning to, driven by factors ranging from concerns over dwindling water supplies, the belief it produces more intensely flavored fruit, or, as is the case at Kunde, to forge a link with old traditions.

Quality of N.C. wines continues to improve

The North Carolina Wine Celebration that was downtown Saturday provided a snapshot of an industry on the move, in the variety of wines and in the rising quality.

Musical taste 'enhances the flavour of wine'

Listening to music can affect the way wine tastes, say researchers who recommend Jimi Hendrix with a glass of cabernet sauvignon.

Spaniards find way to profit from selling low-alcohol wine

Global warming may be the latest threat to the wine industry, but a clutch of producers in one of Spain's hardest-hit regions say they've found a way to survive and even profit from it.

Rochioli Website Reveals Secrets of the Land

Now, oenophiles around the world can gain fresh insight into how the Rochiolis' patch of the Russian River Valley produces such amazing wines by visiting the new Rochioli Vineyards & Winery website.

VA: Wineries back in business with help of new law

For the first time in nearly two years, Lew Parker delivered wine May 1 from his Willowcroft Farm Vineyard to the Leesburg Vintner about five miles away.

Wine Institute Presents Leadership Award to Congressman Sam Farr

Wine Institute presented its Annual Leadership Award to Congressman Sam Farr, D-Carmel, during its 26th Washington Week, where Institute vintners met with top Congressional leaders and Administration officials in the nation's capital.

NC Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association Rejects Consumer Tax Increase

The North Carolina Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (NCBWWA) calls Governor Mike Easley's tax increase on beer and wine an unacceptable burden on North Carolina taxpayers.

Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Ltd.: Two New Dan Aykroyd Discovery Series Wines To Launch First in Ontario at LCBO

New wines include Dan Aykroyd Discovery Series 2006 Sauvignon Blanc and Dan Aykroyd Discovery Series 2006 Cabernet Shiraz

Constellation backs Banrock with £4m ad investment

Constellation has thrown its financial clout behind its eco-friendly Australian wine brand Banrock Station with a £4 million investment in a new advertising campaign.

Chalk Hill winery owner downsizes, drops plan to relocate practice to SR

wo years ago, Furth's firm won a $172 million class-action judgment against Wal-Mart on behalf of California workers who claimed they were denied lunch breaks. Wal-Mart has appealed that ruling, and recently hired an additional law firm to assist in the effort, Furth said.

AgraQuest names new CEO

Davis-based AgraQuest Inc. has named Marcus Meadows-Smith the company's chief executive, effective immediately. Meadows-Smith formerly was executive vice president at Chemtura Corp., a publicly traded chemical company in Connecticut.

Wine grape prices increase

Wineries are offering to buy grapes in the central San Joaquin Valley at prices well above last year's for most varieties.

California Utility Imposes First Water Rationing in 16 Years

Northern California's East Bay Municipal Utility District passed its first water-rationing resolution in 16 years, asking residents and businesses to conserve as drought saps reservoir levels.

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Less alcohol for better wine flavour

The Australian Wine Research Institute says reducing the alcohol levels in wine could enhance flavour.

Health group calls for more tax on beer and cask wine

Beer and cask wine could be next in line for a price hike as politicians fight over a proposed tax rise on alcopops, if a health lobby group gets its way.

Md.'s first urban winery could get own zoning designation

The state's first urban winery could soon get its own zoning designation, allowing for similar uses throughout the City of Frederick.

Flora Springs works hard to stay family

Flora Springs is a dying breed among veteran wineries in Napa Valley: It's family owned and operated.

Booming Washington wine industry is taking root in Whatcom County

New wineries are popping up over much of Washington state, and the trend is spreading to Whatcom County.

Fears flare of another outbreak of Pierce's disease in Temecula Wine Country

About 10 years ago, a bacterial disease killed a third of Temecula Wine Country vineyards and caused $20 million in damage.

Oregon's Umbrella for Sustainability

It's no surprise that an Oregon wine industry group is the first in the nation actively seeking to create an umbrella platform and certification logo for vineyards and wineries identified as sustainable, organic and biodynamic.