Category: Wine Economics

EU Authorizes Three New Grape Varieties: Calardis Blanc, Magdeleine Noir, and Négret de la Canourgue

The French Minister of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty submitted a formal request to the European Union to update the Official Catalogue of Species and Varieties of Plants Cultivated in France. At the culmination of this process, three grape varieties, Calardis Blanc (white), Magdeleine Noir, and Négret de la Canourgue (both red) have now received official authorization.

Calardis Blanc, a hybrid derivative of Calardis Musqué and Seyve Villard 39‑639 developed by the Julius Kühn Institute (Geilweilerhof, Germany), is notable for its resistance to powdery mildew, downy mildew, and black rot. Previously approved since 2020 in Germany’s Rhineland‑Palatinate, it is now cleared for cultivation across France, where it is expected to yield wines with rich aromatic complexity, exotic fruit profiles, and pronounced acidity, traits favourable for sparkling wine production.

Magdeleine Noir, also referred to as ‘Black Magdeleine’, originated in Brittany and has been identified in the Charentes. It is genetically linked to Merlot and is described as a balanced cultivar of considerable complexity.

Négret de la Canourgue, hailing from the Tarn Valley, is characterized by vigorous growth, strong yields, late ripening, and a pale colour, qualities that render it especially suitable for lightweight rosé wine production.

This regulatory decision aligns with broader EU and national strategies to modernize and diversify viticultural production. As of late 2024, France had authorized 357 grape varieties for wine production and labelling, compared with roughly 700 in Italy, 260 in Spain, and 343 in Portugal. Meanwhile, Germany had approximately 465 permissible varieties, and Greece around 206.

The Rise of Hybrid and Resilient Varieties

Amid mounting climate-related pressures on traditional viticulture, hybrid grape varieties are gaining prominence. A study published in Nature Reviews Earth and Environment cautions that up to 70% of current winemaking regions may become unsuitable under continued average temperature increases. Hybrids like Calardis Blanc are championed for their disease resistance, reduced cultivation costs, and adaptability to extreme climate events, alongside their capacity to deliver higher yields with less intensive input demands.

EU wine, spirits to face 15% US tariff starting August 1

European wine and spirits will face a 15% U.S. import tariff until a different deal is agreed in talks expected to continue in the autumn, the European Commission and EU diplomats said on Thursday, dashing producers’ hopes of an immediate reprieve.

A framework trade deal between Brussels and Washington on Sunday agreed a 15% tariff for most EU imports into the United States, although some sectors were expected to be exempted.

The U.S. tariff on European wine and spirits is currently 10%. Brussels is keen to reduce that to zero or, for wine at least, to the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rates that are set on a fixed cost per litre basis, rather than in percentage terms.

“The Commission remains determined to achieve and secure the maximum number of carve-outs, including … wine and spirits,” Commission spokesperson for trade Olof Gill said.

“It is not our expectation that wine and spirits will be included as an exemption in the first group announced by the U.S. tomorrow. And therefore that sector will be captured by the 15% ceiling,” he said.

Winemakers said the tariff, even if temporary, would hurt the sector, especially when combined with the stronger euro.

“The 15% duty on EU wines, even if applied for some months until the negotiations are closed, would cause significant economic losses not only for EU wine producers but also for U.S. businesses involved throughout the supply chain,” said Ignacio Sanchez Recarte, secretary general of European wine producers group CEEV.

“When combined with the currency shift in the dollar/euro exchange rate, the overall financial burden on the sector could reach 30%. Investments will be halted and export volumes will decline while waiting for the final agreement,” he said.

U.S. Distilled Spirits Council President and CEO Chris Swonger also urged a quick deal to bring tariffs down to zero.

“It is extremely disappointing and utterly exasperating that the U.S. and EU have not yet come to an agreement on spirits, which is an easy win for the United States that will help secure our economic vitality during this challenging time for the hospitality industry,” Swonger said.

“It is critical for our great American distilleries, farmers and hospitality workers across the country that President Trump secure a permanent return to zero-for-zero tariffs on spirits with the European Union,” he said in a statement.

The U.S. is to publish an executive order on Friday, implementing the framework trade deal that was agreed on Sunday between U.S. President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Separately, the EU and the U.S. are to publish a joint statement spelling out the details of the framework deal.

A senior diplomat said that talks on wine and spirits tariffs would continue after the joint statement. “(This will take place) probably in the autumn,” the diplomat said.

Until recently, spirits had benefited from zero tariffs between the U.S. and EU following an agreement in 1997 that also included other countries such as Canada and Japan.

That lasted until 2018, when the EU response to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs included increased duties on U.S. bourbon and other spirits. These were suspended in 2021.

U.S. MFN rates for wine are 19.8 cents per litre for sparkling and 6.3 cents per litre for most other wines, which equates to very low rates in most cases.

Source:  Reuters

AliveTaste’25 – A Celebration of Portugal’s Wine Culture and Gastronomic Excellence

I recently had the honour of attending the 9th Edition of AliveTaste’25 in Portugal, an extraordinary celebration of Portuguese wine, gastronomy, and cultural excellence. My journey across the country offered profound insights into the evolution of its wine culture, from the Atlantic-influenced Vinho Verde to the dramatic terraces of the Douro Valley and culminated in a multisensory experience at AliveTaste’25, hosted at the iconic Palácio do Freixo in Porto.

Exploring the Vinho Verde Wine Region: Tradition Meets Innovation

My exploration began in the Vinho Verde region, a landscape defined by granitic soils, verdant valleys, and cool Atlantic breezes. The appellation spans nine sub-regions, from Monção and Melgaço in the north to Paiva in the southeast, each contributing unique microclimatic influences and terroir expressions.

Long associated with low-alcohol, lightly effervescent white wines, Vinho Verde is undergoing a dynamic renaissance. During my visit, I discovered winemakers pushing boundaries, experimenting with single-varietal expressions that highlight the region’s diverse terroirs and microclimates, including an exciting emergence of red wines.

Producers are crafting distinctive wines from Alvarinho, Loureiro, and Arinto, each showcasing freshness, minerality, and structure. The grape varietals Alvarinho and Loureiro are being further refined through innovative techniques such as oak aging, which adds greater depth, complexity, and character.

Vinho Verde is also gaining recognition as a vibrant wine tourism destination. Many wineries now offer curated experiences that go beyond tastings, inviting visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region through tours, cultural activities, and immersive leisure experiences that seamlessly blend wine, hospitality, and landscape.

“Vinho Verde is certainly one of Europe’s most exciting wine destinations—and it’s only getting better” — Liz Palmer

Aveleda Wines: A Living Legacy of Portuguese Viticulture

One of the highlights of my travels in the Vinho Verde region was a visit to Aveleda, one of Portugal’s oldest and most respected wine estates. Founded in 1870 and still family-owned, Aveleda exemplifies the convergence of innovation, biodiversity, and sustainability. The estate spans over 200 hectares, and its commitment to ecological integrity is evident in its viticultural and architectural choices.

During my visit, I toured the historic gardens and cellars, participated in a technical tasting of their Alvarinho and Loureiro, and enjoyed an amazing outdoor wine tasting in the historic gardens, followed by a wine-paired lunch that reflected the region’s gastronomic richness. Aveleda’s wines are crisp, expressive, and exported to over 80 countries; they are true ambassadors of the Vinho Verde DOC.

The Douro Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage Landscape of Wine

My wine travels continue and have led me to the Douro Valley.

Home to over 33,000 grape growers and spanning nearly 250,000 hectares, the Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions, officially established in 1756. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its dramatic terraced vineyards that cling to steep schist slopes, some with gradients reportedly exceeding 70%. Long celebrated as the birthplace of Port wine, the Douro is now equally acclaimed for its bold, expressive still wines crafted from indigenous grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz. With over 200 wine estates or quintas, this region offers an exceptional wine tourism experience, blending rich viticultural heritage, striking architecture, and awe-inspiring landscapes into a destination that embodies the essence of Portugal’s wine culture.

I spent the night at Quinta de Ventozelo, one of the oldest and most expansive estates in the Douro Valley, which offers a compelling integration of heritage, hospitality, and enotourism. The estate’s architectural restoration thoughtfully preserves its 16th-century origins while adapting the structures into refined accommodations that blend comfort with historical authenticity. Nestled amidst 400 hectares of vineyards, forests, and olive groves, the property provides a unique immersion into the cultural and environmental landscape of the region.

A highlight of the estate is its panoramic infinity pool, positioned to frame the sweeping curves of the Douro River, an ideal vantage point for contemplating the viticultural terrain. Beyond its natural beauty, guests at the wine estate are encouraged to explore a network of ecological walking trails, participate in guided vineyard tours, and visit the Interpretation Centre, which offers in-depth insights into the estate’s biodiversity and sustainable practices. This holistic approach positions the property not merely as a wine resort, but as a living expression of the Douro’s enduring viticultural legacy.

I participated in a curated wine tasting that featured a selection of estate labels, from crisp whites and expressive reds to elegant Ports, each reflecting the terroir and heritage of Ventozelo. Wines and Ports that stood out: Quinta de Ventozelo Rose, 2023, Quinta de Ventozelo Malvasia Fina, 2023, Quinta de Ventozelo, 2018 Vintage Port, and Quinta de Ventozelo Colheita Port 2014.

As dusk settled over the terraced vineyards, I enjoyed an intimate dinner with other colleagues at Cantina de Ventozelo, the estate’s signature restaurant. The menu showcased locally sourced ingredients, many grown on-site, and paired seamlessly with Ventozelo’s wines. The panoramic view overlooking the Douro Valley added cinematic depth to the evening, transforming the meal into a sensory journey that felt both grounded in tradition and rich in discovery.

Visiting Douro Icons: Adega de Favaios & Quinta de São Luiz

Venturing deeper into the Douro Valley, I visited Adega de Favaios, a historic cooperative revered for its iconic Moscatel Galego Branco. Situated at elevations between 600 and 800 meters, the vineyards benefit from significant diurnal temperature shifts—ideal conditions for cultivating wines with refined floral and tropical aromatics. During my visit, I sampled a beautifully aged vintage Moscatel, a compelling expression of the region’s aging potential and steadfast commitment to quality.

Founded in 1952, Adega Cooperativa de Favaios stands as one of Portugal’s most esteemed wine institutions, uniting over 550 dedicated growers. While Moscatel de Favaios remains its signature, the cooperative also cultivates a diverse range of native grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Rabigato, and Gouveio. The winery seamlessly blends tradition and modernity in its state-of-the-art cellar, where innovative techniques honour long-standing practices, producing wines that are both expressive and enduring hallmarks of Portuguese wine culture.

I enjoyed a guided tour of the winery, gaining insight into the cooperative’s rich history and its meticulous winemaking process. The experience culminated in a tasting of their portfolio, including several still wines and the iconic Moscatel de Favaios; a beautifully aromatic and balanced expression of the Moscatel Galego Branco grape.

En route to Quinta de São Luiz – our drive from Adega de Favaios to Quinta de São Luiz included a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Douro Valley, winding past terraced vineyards, centuries-old quintas, and panoramic views of the Douro River. As we descended from the elevated Favaios plateau, the landscape unfolded dramatically; steep schist slopes lined with vines, charming hillside villages, and the glint of rabelos drifting along the water below.

Quinta de São Luiz, the historic birthplace of the Kopke brand, is one of the Douro Valley’s most iconic wine estates, with roots tracing back to 1638, making it the oldest Port wine house in Portugal. Located on the left bank of the Douro River between Régua and Pinhão, in the village of Tabuaço, the estate is renowned for its production of Tawny Colheita Ports, white wines, and premium Douro DOC wines. We were welcomed with a guided tour through the Romilã vineyard, insights into traditional winemaking at the Casa do Alambique, and curated tastings on the scenic São Luiz Terrace, which was relocated due to the heat to one of the tasting rooms. The estate also hosts engaging activities such as treasure hunts and mystery tours for groups, making it a versatile and immersive destination for wine enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Hotel Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia

I had the pleasure of dining with my group and special guest, Frederico Falcão, President of ViniPortugal, at 1638 Restaurant & Wine Bar by Chef Nacho Manzano, [third Michelin star chef]. The décor is sophisticated yet understated, blending warm wood accents, soft lighting, and expansive views over the Douro River and the city of Porto, creating a refined, timeless setting. Service was impeccable: attentive without being intrusive, with staff deeply knowledgeable about both the cuisine and the exceptional Kopke wine and Port pairings. Chef Nacho Manzano’s tasting menu was a masterclass in culinary precision, each course artfully balancing purity of flavour with innovative techniques like low-temperature cooking and steaming. Highlights included delicate seafood, seasonal vegetables, and heritage meats, all elevated by rare Kopke Ports and Douro DOC wines from Quinta de São Luiz and Quinta da Boavista. It was an extraordinary gastronomic journey, one that perfectly reflected Porto’s rich culinary and winemaking heritage in every bite.

The World of Wine (WOW): Porto’s Cultural Beacon

No trip to Porto is complete without a visit to WOW or the “World of Wine” a pioneering cultural district in Vila Nova de Gaia. I spent an afternoon exploring the museums, including The Wine Experience, Planet Cork, and The Bridge Collection. WOW also features 12 restaurants, a wine school, boutique shopping, and panoramic views over the Douro River, a dynamic nexus of culture, education, and luxury wine tourism.

During my exploration of the local wine landscape, I had the opportunity to stay at a selection of hotels that exemplified a sophisticated integration of luxury accommodations and strategic geographic positioning.

Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel – Porto’s newest 5-star property, it combines modern sophistication with sweeping city views. An ideal base for wine professionals and tourists alike, it’s located within easy access to both urban and wine country adventures.

Pestana Douro Riverside – This elegant property is a restored perfume and soap factory known as the Floral Factory. Dinner at Aroma, its signature restaurant, was a standout experience. The interiors blend exposed beams and iron columns with a soft, modern palette, an aesthetic that tells the story of industrial heritage reimagined.

Tivoli Kopke Porto Hotel – Strategically located near the Vila Nova de Gaia wine cellars, this hotel offers direct access to key wine tourism sites. Its stylish interiors evoke understated luxury, ideal for oenophiles. A dinner at 1638 Restaurant & Wine Bar by Nacho Manzano was a culinary masterpiece, featuring haute cuisine paired with Kopke’s award-winning Ports and still wines.

AliveTaste’25: Portugal’s Pinnacle Event for Wine and Gastronomy

In the heart of Portugal’s storied wine country, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary elegance, this year’s AliveTaste’25 was nothing short of a sensory revelation.

Held at the magnificent Portuguese Baroque Pestana Palácio do Freixo, Douro, the event unfolded as a harmonious symphony of taste, culture, and refined hospitality. It brought together 26 chefs and 20 wine producers, featuring culinary creations from the chefs paired with wines from the participating producers.

The event was attended by an eclectic mix of luminaries: international wine critics, Michelin-starred chefs, top sommeliers, and luxury travel insiders. From Canada to Paris to São Paulo to South Korea, the guest list read like a passport through the world’s wine capitals. Both Portuguese wines and gastronomy took center stage, joined by leading producers from across the country, bringing the global wine world together in one extraordinary setting.

AliveTaste’25 is more than a celebration of fine wine; it is a tribute to the terroir, the people, and the compelling stories that are shaping Portugal’s growing influence in gastronomy and luxury wine tourism. In 2025, the event once again raised the bar, elevating the experience to new heights.

“AliveTaste’25 was nothing short of a sensory revelation” Liz Palmer

For further details, visit: https://alivetaste.com

Global Wine Tourism Soars in 2024 Despite Historic Lows in Production and Consumption

The global wine tourism sector demonstrated exceptional growth and resilience in 2024, according to The Global Wine Tourism Market 2024 report, published by Vinetur on July 16, 2025. Despite a challenging year for wine production and consumption worldwide, wine tourism emerged as a dynamic and vital segment within the broader tourism and beverage industries.

Market valuations for 2024 varied based on methodology. Conservative estimates, focused on core winery activities, valued the market at $11.86 billion, up from $10.53 billion in 2023. Broader analyses, which included spending on accommodation, gastronomy, and cultural activities, estimated the sector’s value as high as $95.88 billion. All credible sources reported strong double-digit growth, with compound annual growth rate (CAGR) forecasts ranging between 4.01% and 13.2% for the coming years.

This strong performance stood in stark contrast to the steep declines in wine production and consumption. Global wine production in 2024 dropped to 225.8 million hectoliters, a 4.8% decrease from 2023 and the lowest output in more than six decades, primarily due to severe weather events affecting vineyards worldwide. Meanwhile, global wine consumption declined by 3.3% to approximately 214.2 million hectoliters, the lowest level since 1961, driven by economic pressures, evolving consumer habits, and growing health consciousness.

Amid these headwinds, wine tourism thrived, bolstered by transformative trends. Central to this growth was the rise of the “experience economy,” as travellers increasingly sought immersive and educational experiences over traditional sightseeing. Wine tourism responded with vineyard tours, blending workshops, harvest participation, and integration with culinary travel. Sustainability also became a major value driver, with many wineries adopting organic and biodynamic practices, water conservation methods, and renewable energy, particularly appealing to Millennial and Gen Z tourists.

Digital transformation further accelerated growth. Online booking platforms, virtual tours, and targeted social media campaigns made wine regions more accessible than ever. Wineries increasingly use technology to deliver personalized experiences and build deeper engagement with visitors.

From a regional perspective, Europe maintained its global leadership with over 51% market share in 2023, led by France, Italy, and Spain. North America, driven by California’s Napa and Sonoma valleys, emerged as a high-value growth engine. Asia-Pacific posted the highest projected growth rates, supported by rising middle-class populations in China, India, and Australia. South American destinations such as Argentina and Chile gained international appeal thanks to favourable exchange rates and distinctive terroirs, while South Africa’s wine tourism sector made a strong post-pandemic recovery.

In Europe:

  • France welcomed approximately 10 million wine tourists in 2024. Bordeaux alone attracted nearly six million visitors despite a small harvest caused by mildew and rain. Champagne drew about 3.5 million visitors, even as global shipments dropped more than 9% due to economic uncertainty.
  • Italy’s wine tourism sector grew by 16%, reaching a value of €2.9 billion. Tuscany remained a top destination with over 15 million tourist arrivals.
  • Spain’s Rioja region set new records with more than 912,000 winery visits.

In North America:

  • The region contributed roughly 25% of global market revenue in 2023.
  • Napa Valley generated $2.5 billion in visitor spending, with an average daily spend of $446 per overnight guest.
  • Sonoma County welcomed over 10 million visitors in 2024, generating $1.5 billion in spending.

In South America:

  • Mendoza, Argentina, increased the number of wineries open to tourism by nearly 60% since 2018, receiving almost 1.6 million visitors in 2024. Domestic travellers accounted for 62% of this total.
  • Chile reached a record 219 wineries open to tourism and welcomed nearly one million visitors.

In Asia-Pacific:

  • The region is expected to grow nearly 15% annually through 2030.
  • Australia benefited from renewed exports to China following the removal of tariffs in March 2024. New South Wales led the country in attracting international wine tourists.

In South Africa:

  • The sector surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with direct GDP contributions of approximately $162 million in 2022.
  • Domestic tourists accounted for 58% of room nights in the Cape Winelands in 2024.

Market segmentation analysis revealed that on-site winery experiences, such as tastings and tours, accounted for more than 57% of offerings in 2023. Festivals and events are projected to grow at a CAGR of nearly 14% through 2030. Domestic tourism provided a stable foundation, contributing 64% of total revenue, while international tourism drove higher growth rates.

Direct bookings remained the preferred choice for 40% of travellers, though online travel marketplaces are rapidly gaining traction due to ongoing digitalization trends.

Looking ahead, the strategic outlook for wine tourism remains optimistic, despite challenges such as climate change, economic volatility, evolving consumer preferences, including demand for low- and no-alcohol options, and inconsistent data collection across regions.

Industry experts recommend that wineries invest in hospitality infrastructure, digital tools, and sustainability practices to appeal to modern travellers seeking authentic, values-driven experiences. Tourism boards are advised to promote integrated regional experiences and support transportation infrastructure, while investors are encouraged to explore diversified assets that combine winemaking with hospitality services.

The global wine tourism sector is shifting from product-centric models to experience-driven value creation, a trend poised to drive continued growth well into the next decade, even as traditional wine production faces mounting pressures.

Rethinking the Tasting Room Experience: Does Waiving Fees Drive More Visitors?

I’ve come across some compelling insights from the SVB 2025 DtC Wine Report that shed light on evolving strategies in the tasting room experience.

According to the report, wineries were asked under what circumstances they would waive tasting fees. Predictably, scenarios such as making a purchase or joining a wine club were frequently cited, widely viewed as justified within broader sales tactics.

Interestingly, the report also explored whether lowering or waiving tasting fees could increase visitation. While this strategy is still in the early stages of evaluation, 35% of respondents noted an increase in visitation after lowering fees. However, 29% saw no improvement, and 32% said it was too soon to determine the outcome.

This data signals a shift in how wineries are rethinking visitor engagement and revenue models, especially as competition intensifies in the DtC space.

Source: SVB 2025 DtC Wine Report