WHO [Europe] highlights Nordic alcohol monopolies as a comprehensive model for reducing alcohol consumption and harm

The Nordic alcohol monopolies, stores that have the exclusive right to sell most alcoholic beverages in Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and the Faroe Islands, have contributed to relatively low alcohol consumption and reduced alcohol-related harm in the Nordic countries. This is a part of the WHO European Region historically known for harmful drinking patterns and high levels of associated harm.

Alcohol consumption levels in the European Union (EU) have remained largely unchanged for over a decade, making it the subregion with the highest consumption levels globally. The EU is currently not on track to meet the global and regional reduction targets for alcohol consumption.

To address this, the public health community is looking at good practices across EU countries, where alcohol consumption has been decreasing or has been kept at low levels.

The new WHO/Europe report “Nordic alcohol monopolies: understanding their role in a comprehensive alcohol policy and public health significance” highlights a comprehensive model used in the Nordic countries that other EU countries could learn from.

A model for reducing harm

Unlike for-profit alcohol sales models, the Nordic approach (excluding mainland Denmark and Greenland) restricts alcohol availability and minimizes commercial influence by preventing grocery stores and private retailers from selling stronger alcoholic beverages.

State-owned monopolies – ÁTVR in Iceland (with Vínbúðin as the retail store for alcohol), Systembolaget in Sweden, Alko in Finland, Rúsdrekkasøla Landsins in the Faroe Islands, and Vinmonopolet in Norway – operate with a clear mission: to protect public health over profit.

With limits on outlet numbers and sale hours and days, strict enforcement of age controls, and no marketing or discount pricing, these monopolies emphasize managing alcohol as a product with inherent risks, rather than treating it as an ordinary consumer product.

“This public health-first approach in the management of alcohol retail sales in Nordic countries is a great demonstration of alcohol policies that work,” says Dr Carina Ferreira-Borges, Regional Adviser for Alcohol, Illicit Drugs and Prison Health at WHO/Europe.

“Countries with state-owned monopolies have lower per capita alcohol consumption compared to the EU average, and generally have lower rates of alcohol-attributable harms, which span from liver disease, cancers and cardiovascular conditions to injuries and drownings.”

Challenging pressures and threats

Despite the monopolies’ strong public support and proven health benefits, recent legislative initiatives in several Nordic countries signal a potential shift toward privatization of retail alcohol sales, which could undo decades of public health gains.

In Finland, for example, recent policy changes have allowed the sale of a large proportion of alcoholic beverages outside monopoly stores, and there is ongoing consultation on permitting home delivery of alcohol. Similarly, in Sweden, a new court case challenges the monopoly’s exclusive rights to online sales, while proposed laws would permit farm sales of alcoholic beverages.

“There is consistent evidence that the structure of the retail alcohol distribution system – in other words, how, when and where alcohol is sold – significantly affects alcohol sales,” adds Dr Ferreira-Borges. “Government monopolies on off-premises retail sales have been shown to reduce alcohol consumption while privatizing alcohol sales tends to increase consumption.”

Two significant real-world privatization events illustrate how allowing alcohol sales in grocery stores in the 1960s has historically resulted in increased consumption and associated problems in Finland and Sweden. These findings suggest that the Nordic monopolies’ strict regulation of alcohol availability and elimination of promotion and marketing at sales outlets, including online stores, are key features that contribute to reduced alcohol consumption at the population level in their respective countries.

“WHO/Europe emphasizes that expanding alcohol availability could reverse the positive public health indicators that Nordic countries have achieved over decades of controlled alcohol sales,” Dr Ferreira-Borges concludes.

A global best-practice model at risk

Nordic alcohol monopolies serve as models worldwide, showcasing the benefits of recognizing alcohol as a harmful product with considerable social, economic and health impacts that requires specific approaches to management.

They align closely with WHO’s 3 recommended best buys (affordable, feasible and cost-effective intervention strategies) for alcohol control: increasing taxes/raising prices, restricting availability and restricting advertising. These have consistently shown to be the most effective means of reducing alcohol-related harm on a broad scale.

Source: World Health Organization

Old Vine Registry Surpasses 4,000 Entries: Vineyards Planted in 1990 Now Eligible

The Old Vine Registry, recognized as the foremost global database dedicated to documenting old vine vineyards, has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 4,000 entries. This accomplishment underscores the registry’s ongoing commitment to cataloging historic vineyards, with entries now encompassing 39 countries. In addition, vineyards established in 1990 are now eligible for inclusion. The registry aims to expand its database to 10,000 vineyards by 2027, reflecting its dedication to preserving viticultural heritage.

With the changing of the year, vineyards planted in 1990 are now 35 years old and are eligible for inclusion in the registry. Producers are encouraged to submit their vineyards at https://www.oldvineregistry.org/.

The OIV’s recently passed Resolution OIV-VITI 703-2024 “OIV definition and recommendations about old grapevines and old vineyards in the vitivinicultural sector” made the explicit recommendation to all wine regions around the world to “promote and encourage the cataloguing of old vineyards and old grapevines.”

The Old Vine Registry was conceived expressly for that purpose, with the idea that to study, preserve, or support old vines around the world, you first need to know where they all are. The registry launched in June of 2023 with 2183 entries and has grown steadily over the last year and a half.

“The recent OIV Resolution really validated what we’re doing,” says wine writer Alder Yarrow, who serves as the day-to-day manager of the registry. “I hope it will encourage both individual producers and whole regions to publish information about their old vines.”

Unlocking the Digital Future: Liz Palmer’s Insights at the 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism

Liz Palmer Presents at the 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism: Strategies for Crafting and Preserving a Strong Digital Brand for the Wine Tourism Industry

The 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism, held in Yerevan, Armenia, from September 11 to 13, 2024, hosted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in partnership with the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, stands as a landmark event in the wine tourism industry. The conference theme, “Heritage in Every Bottle: Crafting Authentic Wine Tourism Experiences,” highlights the essential balance between modernizing wine tourism and preserving cultural heritage.

The conference provided an unparalleled platform for experts in the burgeoning field of wine tourism to collaborate on finding tangible solutions to make tourism a driver for a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for communities. Attendees included renowned producers, tourism professionals, government officials, and representatives from international organizations.

I was thrilled to be asked to be a keynote speaker on Digital Branding in Wine Tourism. My presentation, titled “Strategies for Crafting and Preserving a Strong Digital Brand for the Wine Tourism Industry,” covered several key topics:

  1. What is Digital Branding?
  2. Evolution of Digital Branding
  3. Key Trends (2020-2024)
  4. How Digital Branding Drives Success in Wine Tourism
  5. Current Trends in Digital Branding for Wine Tourism
  6. 10 Key Elements for Structuring an Effective Digital Brand Strategy

I’m also delighted to share my presentation from the 8th UN Tourism Global Conference on Wine Tourism in Armenia, 2024

Here it is on Slideshare + available to download: https://tinyurl.com/4peyfrye

Wines of South Africa Announces “CapeWine 2025” – The Largest Wine Trade Show in the Southern Hemisphere

Wines of South Africa (WoSA) has recently announced the return of CapeWine, scheduled for 10-12 September 2025, to be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). For the first time, DHL Express and Hillebrand Gori have joined forces as the event’s headline sponsors, showcasing their commitment to supporting the growth of South African wine globally.

As the triennial flagship event for South African wine, CapeWine 2025 will showcase the richness and diversity of South Africa’s wine industry to an international audience of trade professionals, media, and enthusiasts.

The theme of CapeWine 2025 will be “Our Warmest Welcome,” encapsulating the spirit of South Africa’s wine industry in terms of the wine and the people who produce it. This event invites trade professionals worldwide to connect with the diverse individuals shaping the wine industry.

First hosted in 2000 with 100 exhibitors, the expo has grown to over 10 editions and has now become renowned for its extensive showcase of over 400 South African wine producers. The event will also offer a host of immersive experiences that go beyond the trade floor. Attendees will explore the different wine regions, discover rare varieties, meet talented winemakers, and engage with groups of like-minded enthusiasts.

“This tenth edition of our flagship trade event promises to be one of the best yet. Twenty-five years after the first CapeWine was launched in 2000, it has grown exponentially, and the show, as we know it today, has evolved to truly reflect what the South African wine industry is all about: the phenomenal wines we produce, our wonderfully warm people, the dramatic and spectacular landscapes, and the overall richness of our culture. I look forward to welcoming trade from around the world to join us for what will be an unforgettable experience,” states Siobhan Thompson, Wines of South Africa, CEO

The 2025 edition promises to elevate the South African wine industry’s global profile, attracting trade and media representatives from over 60 countries. The event runs daily from 10:00 to 17:00, providing ample opportunities to network, taste exceptional wines, and explore the local culture and landscapes of the Cape Winelands.

Registration and Tickets: www.capewine2025.com

Benvenuto Brunello 2024: Celebrating Tuscany’s Iconic Wine PART I – Filippo Magnani

The storied hills of Montalcino welcomed wine enthusiasts and professionals for the 33rd edition of Benvenuto Brunello, the foundational event among Italian wine previews dedicated to Tuscany’s most iconic red wine. From November 14-18, the medieval Chiostro Sant’Agostino in Montalcino hosted this prestigious gathering, featuring 127 wineries and over 500 labels, marking a return to tradition while embracing innovation in its presentation format.

A Return to Tradition with Modern Flair

This year’s event notably returns to its roots, combining professional technical tastings with walk-around opportunities where producers personally present their wines. The anticipated debut of Brunello di Montalcino 2020 and Riserva 2019 took center stage, alongside the Rosso di Montalcino 2023, Moscadello, and Sant’Antimo. The revival of producer-attended tastings marks a significant evolution in the event’s format, creating more intimate opportunities for dialogue between winemakers and enthusiasts.

The Chiostro Sant’Agostino, with its historic architecture and serene atmosphere, provided an ideal setting for exploring these prestigious wines. The walk-around tastings offered visitors the chance to engage directly with producers, learning firsthand about their winemaking philosophies, terroir interpretations, and vintage characteristics.

A Strategic Autumn Preview

The event opened with two days of technical tastings exclusively for national and international press. These sessions featured professional sommelier service, allowing critics and journalists to evaluate the new releases under optimal conditions. The controlled environment and expert service ensured that each wine could be assessed thoroughly and objectively.

The program expanded significantly at the Teatro degli Astrusi with the thought-provoking discussion, “What future for the wine consortia.” This high-level industry forum brought together an unprecedented gathering of Italian wine’s most influential voices, including:

  • Albiera Antinori (Doc Bolgheri and Doc Bolgheri Sassicaia)
  • Francesco Cambria (Etna Doc)
  • Sergio Germano (Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe and Dogliani)
  • Giovanni Manetti (Chianti Classico)
  • Christian Marchesini (Valpolicella)

Tasting Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2020

In general, Brunellos of this year turned out to be soft, fruity with good structure and alcohol content, making them very approachable to drink. This is partly a reflection of the vintage, which started quite dry with no frost in spring. The summer was also dry and quite hot with a great diurnal temperature range (temperature difference between night and day). The season ended with some rain at the beginning of September, which gave a little relief to the grapes.

The Rise of Brunello: A Legacy of Excellence

After more than five decades since achieving DOCG status, Brunello di Montalcino continues to captivate wine enthusiasts worldwide. The wine’s modern success story, beginning in the late 19th century, is inextricably linked to visionaries like Ferruccio Biondi-Santi, who pioneered the extended oak aging that would become a hallmark of Brunello’s distinctive character.

Today’s Brunello maintains these exacting standards while embracing modern precision in both vineyard and cellar. The DOCG requirements remain among Italy’s most stringent, requiring a minimum of four years aging, including two years in oak and four months in bottle, with Riserva wines demanding an additional year of maturation.

Terroir and Tradition Meet Innovation

The success of Brunello di Montalcino stems from the perfect marriage of the Sangiovese grape with Montalcino’s diverse terroir. The region’s varying elevations (250-600 meters above sea level) and complex soil compositions create a tapestry of microclimates that contribute to the wine’s renowned complexity.

The northern sector’s limestone and shale soils produce wines of particular finesse and aromatic complexity, while the central zone’s clay and marl contribute to wines of substantial structure and depth. The southern area, influenced by volcanic soils, yields wines of remarkable power and intensity. This diversity allows producers to craft wines that reflect their specific location while maintaining the high standards that define Brunello di Montalcino.

Today, over half of Montalcino’s producers are certified organic, demonstrating the region’s commitment to sustainable viticulture while preserving traditional winemaking excellence. This environmental consciousness extends beyond the vineyard, with many producers implementing sustainable practices throughout their operations.

Experiencing Montalcino: A Complete Tuscan Journey

Visitors to Benvenuto Brunello will find themselves in one of Tuscany’s most captivating wine destinations, where centuries of winemaking tradition blend seamlessly with modern hospitality. The medieval hilltop town of Montalcino, perched at 564 meters above sea level, offers a perfect base for exploring both the wines and the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The Historic Heart of Montalcino

The town’s crowning glory, the 14th-century Rocca fortress, stands as a testament to Montalcino’s historical significance. This perfectly preserved stronghold now houses the Enoteca la Fortezza, one of the region’s premier wine destinations. Here, visitors can taste an extensive selection of Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino wines, with expert sommeliers offering guidance through the various producers and vintages. The fortress’s ramparts provide breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, the Val d’Orcia, and Monte Amiata, making it an essential stop for photographers and wine lovers alike.

Gastronomic Treasures

Montalcino’s culinary scene perfectly complements its wines, with restaurants ranging from traditional trattorias to Michelin-starred establishments. Local specialties include:

  • Hand-rolled pici pasta, often served with robust wild boar ragù or the traditional pepper and cheese sauce called “cacio e pepe”
  • Locally-produced pecorino cheese, aged in various ways including under walnut leaves or in barriques
  • Traditional Tuscan soup called ribollita, perfect with Rosso di Montalcino
  • Seasonal truffle dishes, particularly abundant in autumn
  • Locally-sourced cinghiale (wild boar) prepared in various ways

The town’s historic center features numerous enotecas and wine bars where visitors can sample wines by the glass, often accompanied by local salumi and cheese. Many establishments offer formal wine tasting flights, allowing guests to compare different producers and vintages in a single sitting.

Year-Round Wine Tourism

While Benvenuto Brunello marks a highlight in Montalcino’s calendar, the region offers exceptional wine experiences throughout the year.

Winery Visits

Many of Montalcino’s 127 wineries welcome visitors year-round, though advance reservations are essential. Experiences range from basic tastings to elaborate tours including:

  • Vertical tastings of multiple vintages
  • Vineyard walks with detailed explanations of different terroirs
  • Barrel tastings in historic cellars
  • Food and wine pairing experiences
  • Helicopter tours of the denomination
  • Harvest experiences during September and October

Seasonal Events

  • Brunello Crossing (February): A series of competitive and recreational hiking trails through the vineyards, offering routes of varying difficulty from 10 to 44 kilometers
  • Jazz & Wine Festival (July): Combining world-class jazz performances with wine tastings in historic settings
  • L’Eroica (October): The famous vintage bicycle race traversing the scenic white roads of Tuscany, with a special route through the Brunello vineyards
  • Honey Week (September): Celebrating local honey production with tastings and pairings with Moscadello di Montalcino

Natural and Cultural Attractions

The surrounding UNESCO World Heritage landscape of Val d’Orcia offers activities for every interest:

  • Hiking and biking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain bike routes
  • The famous cypress-lined roads featured in countless photographs and films
  • Historic abbeys including Sant’Antimo, where Gregorian chants still echo through the stone halls
  • Natural hot springs in nearby Bagno Vignoni and San Filippo
  • The artistic treasures of nearby Pienza and San Quirico d’Orcia

Practical Information for Visitors

Accommodation

Montalcino offers diverse lodging options:

  • Luxury wine resorts integrated with working wineries
  • Historic palace hotels in the town center
  • Intimate bed & breakfasts in converted farmhouses
  • Agriturismos offering authentic farm stays
  • Self-catering apartments in restored village houses

Transportation

  • The nearest train stations are Buonconvento (10 km) and Monte Amiata-Castiglione d’Orcia (13 km)
  • Regular bus service connects Montalcino with Siena (40 km)
  • Car rental is recommended for exploring the region’s wineries
  • Several companies offer private driver services specialized in wine tours
  • Electric bike rentals are available in town for environmentally conscious exploration

Best Times to Visit

  • Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures and wildflowers in bloom
  • Early Summer (June): Perfect weather for outdoor activities
  • Autumn (September-November): Harvest season and cultural events
  • Winter (December-February): Quiet season with crisp days and cozy wine tastings

This year’s Benvenuto Brunello is supported by the SRG10 “Promotion of quality products” intervention of the Complement for Rural Development of Tuscany 2023-2027, co-financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), demonstrating the continued investment in promoting this exceptional wine region’s heritage and future.

The 33rd edition of Benvenuto Brunello was a comprehensive celebration of one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, offering participants an immersive experience in the tradition, innovation, and excellence that define Brunello di Montalcino. Through technical tastings, producer interactions, and educational masterclasses, the event continues to evolve while honoring the timeless appeal of this iconic Tuscan wine.

PART ll – Wine Reviews by Liz Palmer