Category: Wine Investment

Adapting Terroir to a Changing Climate: An Overview of Chablis’ 2025 Vineyard Regulation Reforms

The 2025 regulatory revisions for the Chablis appellation represent a strategically calibrated response to accelerating climatic pressures. The adjustments—ranging from reduced vine density to higher authorized yields are intended to reinforce vineyard resilience without compromising the appellation’s stylistic integrity. These changes, outlined by The Drinks Business and corroborated through EUR-Lex, signal a regional shift toward adaptive viticultural governance.

The most consequential reform concerns vine density, which has been lowered from 8,000 to 5,500 vines per hectare. This reduction widens row spacing and improves accessibility for mechanization, particularly on slopes where labour constraints and erosion pressures intersect. Expanded spacing norms, averaging up to 1.20 metres, and reaching 1.60 metres on steeper gradients, provide growers with enhanced flexibility. In irregular blocks, spacing may now extend to 2 metres, acknowledging the topographic complexity of the Chablis landscape.

Revisions to yield thresholds similarly reflect an attempt to stabilize production under increasingly erratic weather. New maximum yields now reach 75 hl/ha for standard Chablis (previously 70 hl/ha) and 73 hl/ha for Premier Cru (up from 68 hl/ha). These adjustments offer producers a buffer against frost events, hail episodes, and challenging ripening conditions—phenomena that have become emblematic of recent vintages.

Changes to trellising requirements deepen the focus on canopy management. A minimum foliage height equal to 0.6 times the row spacing is now mandated, supported by structured trellising systems. This emphasizes balanced vegetative growth, improved light interception, and better control of disease pressure; central pillars of contemporary cool-climate viticulture.

These reforms operate alongside long-standing regulations that continue to define the Chablis identity. Chardonnay remains the sole authorized variety, while the hierarchical appellation system, Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru, maintains its established parameters. Minimum alcohol levels (9.5% for Chablis, 10.5% for Premier Cru, and 11% for Grand Cru) remain unchanged, preserving the sensory and structural benchmarks of the region. The geological foundation of Chablis, its Kimmeridgian limestone soils, continues to be recognized as the primary determinant of minerality. Traditional protective practices persist, now complemented by an increasing emphasis on sustainable farming.

Together, these updates depict a region actively reconciling heritage with necessity. Chablis is preserving its historical identity while embracing adaptive strategies capable of sustaining quality and viability in an era defined by climatic volatility. The 2025 framework stands as a model of regulatory evolution rooted in both tradition and foresight, an approach many wine regions are now compelled to consider as environmental uncertainty intensifies.

The Best Hotel Wine Cellars in North America according to MICHELIN Guide

Wine has long been intertwined with the art of hospitality, yet a select number of hotels elevate the experience to the highest level by curating world-class cellars that rival esteemed restaurants and private collections. According to MICHELIN Guide, these properties redefine the concept of luxury lodging, offering immersive oenological journeys that appeal to both seasoned connoisseurs and aspiring enthusiasts.

At these destinations, wine is not simply an accompaniment to a fine meal; it is the foundation of the entire stay. Guests may encounter sommeliers who serve as personal guides, expansive cellars that read like encyclopedias of viticulture, and opportunities to pair rest with rare vintages.

From California’s iconic Cabernet Sauvignon estates to the refined lakeside retreats of Québec, these hotels embody the essence of wine tourism in North America. They serve as cultural crossroads, blending terroir, tradition, and innovation into an experience that extends beyond the bottle.

Rosewood Miramar Beach, Montecito, California

This Two-MICHELIN-Key resort looks and feels like a posh summer home. It’s fitting then that Caruso’s isn’t just a MICHELIN-Starred and Green Star restaurant with an ocean view—it’s also home to one of Southern California’s most extravagant wine cellars, stocked with 22,000+ bottles and a serious Burgundy collection. The sommelier team is armed with rare verticals and white gloves, and you’ll find that most guests here dress for dinner, even if they’re just heading downstairs, or opting to enjoy from their suite. Also located at Rosewood Miramar Beach? AMA Sushi with edomae-style sushi, available à la carte or as an omakase.

Rosewood Miramar Beach Wine Cellar, Napa Valley, California

A 15,000-bottle cellar. Lunch overlooking the Rutherford vines. And a wine list that reads like the Napa Valley Book of Genesis. This Three-MICHELIN-Key resort with a MICHELIN-Starred restaurant of the same name doesn’t shout — it purrs, in silky Bordeaux and well-structured Chardonnay. Whether you’re toasting at the bar or reclining in a vineyard-view suite, every sip is a reminder that heaven might just be spelled C-A-B.

SingleThread Inn, Sonoma, California

SingleThread is a unicorn; it’s a Three-MICHELIN-Key hotel with a Three-MICHELIN-Star and Green Star restaurant tucked inside. Here in this culinary sanctuary, dinner unfolds like a symphony, and the wine pairings are its most delicate movement. Located in California’s Wine Country, the inn’s cellar is both impressive and intimate; designed not just to dazzle, but to deepen your understanding of the bottle in front of you. Expect somm-led education, rare local vintages and a breakfast that might just come with a splash of Pét-Nat.

The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado

Come for the snow, stay for the Pinot Noir. The One-MICHELIN-Key Little Nell may be best known for ski-in, ski-out luxury and its Element 47 restaurant, but oenophiles know it for its award–winning wine cellar: over 20,000 bottles deep, with verticals that rival some European royalty. Prefer your wine with altitude? Book a sommelier-led ski tour, complete with slope-side sabrage. Yes, really.

The Inn at Little Washington, Washington, D.C.

This spot is in a sleepy little town outside of Washington, D.C., but just happens to be home to the region’s only Three-MICHELIN-Star and Green Star restaurant. The dining room is like a Versailles fever dream, and the wine cellar could double as a museum. At Patrick O’Connell’s countryside fantasy, the wine program is an experience unto itself, with deep French and American verticals, pairing flights that border on spiritual and tours that feel like a pilgrimage. You’ll sleep well—but not before a Château d’Yquem nightcap.

Post Hotel & Spa, Lake Louise, Canada

You’ll come for the glacial views and stay for the cellar, which spans more than 22,000 bottles. Discover rare vintages, winemaker dinners and private tastings—all housed in this MICHELIN-Key alpine lodge. It’s the kind of place where après-ski means Amarone, and the wine cellar is deeper than the snowpack.

Manoir Hovey, Québec

Québec’s most refined country escape comes with a serious side of vin. The Two-MICHELIN-Key Manoir Hovey houses a 15,000-bottle cellar and leans proudly into local pairings, offering Québécois wines you won’t find at your downtown wine bar. Book a table at Le Hatley for fine dining or Le Tap Room for a more casual setting. It’s as much about terroir as it is about taste—and yes, there’s foie gras involved.

As wine tourism continues to flourish globally, the MICHELIN Guide’s recognition of these hotels underscores a growing trend: travellers no longer seek only a destination, but a holistic experience that marries luxury, culture, and vinous discovery.

Source:  MICHELIN Guide

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

Rioja Wine Tourism Surges to €197 Million in 2024

Spain’s most important wine region, DOCa Rioja, witnessed unprecedented growth in wine tourism, setting new records in both visitor numbers and economic impact. According to the annual Wine Tourism Monitor presented by the Regulatory Council of the Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin, prepared in collaboration with Dinamiza Asesores, presented May 27 2025, the sector generated nearly €200 million, marking a pivotal moment in Rioja’s evolution as a global wine tourism destination.

The Results

In 2024, a total of 912,438 people visited one of the 214 wineries open to wine tourism in the region. This figure represents a 3.54% increase compared to 2023, with positive growth recorded in all three subzones of the designation. Rioja Oriental saw the largest rise in visitors at 10.61%, followed by Rioja Alta with a 4.36% increase. Rioja Alavesa remained stable with a slight growth of 0.82%. The seasonal pattern of tourism persisted, with September and October as the busiest months. August also saw significant visitor numbers, while March experienced a notable surge of 35.78% over the previous year, driven by Easter celebrations. Despite some growth during off-peak months, the data highlights an ongoing need to reduce seasonality.

The report shows that 63.73% of visitors were from Spain, though international demand grew by more than three points to reach 36.27%. Among foreign markets, the United States accounted for 29% of international visitors, followed by the United Kingdom at 17.75% and France at 14.67%. Mexico registered the highest percentage growth among global markets in 2024.

Visitor behaviour data indicates that 80% made reservations for their visits, and 82.37% booked directly without intermediaries. The most common visitor profile was someone interested or enthusiastic about wine (79.27%), followed by passionate wine lovers (69.51%) and food tourists (40.24%).

From the supply side, Rioja wineries offered a broad and diverse range of experiences. Winery tours with tastings and wine sales remain nearly universal services among wineries. Wine and local product tastings, corporate events, and premium experiences are also widely available. Half of the wineries offer dining services upon request, while 14.58% have restaurants open to the public.

Regarding pricing, the average cost for a basic visit with tasting was €22.29, up 7.61% from 2023. Premium visits averaged €40.40, while visits including meals reached €70.21, reflecting a trend toward higher-value offerings.

Wine tourism experiences continue to expand: 61.46% of wineries offer special tastings, and 45.83% provide gastronomic activities such as pairing menus or cooking workshops. Seasonal experiences like grape harvests or grape stomping are available at more than a third of wineries. However, there was a decline in sports-related activities and games such as escape rooms.

Wine tourism events gained prominence in 2024, with more than 60 events hosted at wineries attracting over 30,000 attendees. These included themed tastings, concerts, special pairings, and festivals like Villabuena Wine Fest and Noches de San Lorenzo. Half of the surveyed wineries participated in wine-related events; 40.48% took part in music events; and 21.43% joined gastronomic activities.

Organizationally, 63.83% of wineries have a dedicated wine tourism department staffed by professionals with an average of over nine years of experience. English is spoken at 85.11% of wineries; French at 26.60%; Basque at 13.83%. Surveyed wineries reported a total of 344 direct jobs linked to wine tourism. An additional 65 external collaborators provide services such as guiding or sommelier work.

Profitability was rated positively by 78.48% of wineries; most consider wine tourism already profitable or expect improved results soon. Wineries sold an average of 9.5% of their wine through wine tourism channels; for some, this share exceeded 75%. Nearly all surveyed wineries (97.47%) plan improvements to their tourism projects. Other planned actions include enhancing guided tours, updating promotional materials, staff training, and creating new spaces like shops or tasting areas.

Investment in wine tourism surpassed €3.5 million in 2024—a rise of over 70% from the previous year and more than triple that invested in 2022.

Economically, wine tourism generated €65.74 million for Rioja’s wineries in 2024, a rise of just over six percent from the previous year, with €45.43 million coming from visits and shop sales; €20.3 million from other activities such as events or restaurant services; business events alone contributed more than €2.5 million.

The average spend per visitor in winery shops reached €40.05; basic winery visits averaged €22.29.

Across the entire destination [including spending on accommodation, dining, transport, shopping and other services], the economic impact of wine tourism reached €197.2 million in 2024: an increase of more than €11 million over last year.

The report also profiles visitors: according to a national survey, nearly three-quarters had visited Rioja within the past three years; main travel motivations were interest in wine culture followed by gastronomy and enjoyment of landscape or heritage sites; most traveled as couples or with friends using private cars for both arrival and local travel; average stay was just under three nights with hotels and rural guesthouses preferred; Haro, Logroño and Laguardia were top destinations within Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavesa subzones.

Average daily spending per visitor was estimated at €155, with winery visits as the most popular activity, followed by tastings, paired meals and vineyard walks.

The 2024 Wine Tourism Monitor affirms DOCa Rioja’s stature as a benchmark for sustainable, high-value wine tourism. With continued investment, professional development, and a strong push toward premium and international markets, Rioja is well-positioned to lead the next chapter of enotourism in Europe.

Historic British Wine Merchant Berry Bros. & Rudd to Launch First U.S. Flagship in Washington, D.C.

As part of a strategic international expansion, the venerable British wine institution Berry Bros. & Rudd has announced the opening of its first bricks-and-mortar retail outlet in the United States, to be located in Washington, D.C. This significant development reflects a broader transatlantic demand for luxury British heritage brands, particularly within the fine wine and spirit’s sector.

Established in 1698, Berry Bros. & Rudd holds the distinction of being Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchant and is internationally renowned for its longstanding affiliation with the British Royal Family. It has served as the official wine supplier to the Royal Household since the reign of King George III in 1760, a heritage that continues to enhance the brand’s reputation for excellence and tradition.

While Berry Bros. & Rudd currently maintains international offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, and its historic headquarters in St. James’s, London, the U.S. retail launch represents the firm’s first physical retail presence in North America. This move aligns with a noticeable uptick in American consumer interest in authentic British luxury products, paralleling similar expansions by iconic British brands such as Fortnum & Mason.

“This marks a key milestone in our international growth, and we look forward to serving a wider community of customers across the US” said a company spokesperson.

The Washington, D.C. location will provide curated selections of fine wines and rare spirits, underpinned by centuries of expertise and Royal endorsement, positioning the store as a premier destination for discerning American oenophiles.