Wine News Archives

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 Lifts Liquid Ban: Wine Bottles Now Permitted in Hand Luggage at Select European Airports

Recent advancements in aviation security technology have prompted the European Union (EU) to revise its long-standing 100 millilitre liquid restriction for carry-on luggage. This policy evolution, currently applicable in select European airports, has significant implications for passenger convenience, airport operational efficiency, and regional agri-food economies, particularly the wine and olive oil sectors.

The European Union has officially sanctioned the use of next-generation computed tomography (CT) security scanners capable of detecting liquid explosives without the need to separate or decant liquids during security screening. The European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) approved these devices in July 2025, marking a pivotal shift in airport security protocols.

Under the revised regulations, passengers travelling through airports equipped with these next-generation scanners by Smiths Detection, like Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate, Rome Fiumicino, Bologna, and Turin can now carry liquids, including wine, olive oil, perfumes, and creams, in containers of up to two litres in their hand luggage. This development effectively dismantles the 100-millilitre threshold that has been in place for nearly two decades.

While the measure is currently limited to airports utilizing scanners from approved manufacturers (e.g., Smiths Detection), broader EU-wide implementation is expected as more airports upgrade their systems. However, discrepancies may arise during multi-leg itineraries involving airports with outdated screening equipment.

The policy shift is anticipated to yield tangible benefits for the wine tourism and agri-food sectors. travellers, especially those without checked baggage, can now transport artisanal products directly from producers, avoiding the higher costs and limited selection of duty-free shops. The measure thus supports regional economies while enhancing the travel experience.

Robert Mondavi Winery Unveils 2026 Reopening Experiences – Reservations Now Open for Napa Valley’s Most Anticipated Return

Robert Mondavi Winery, one of Napa Valley’s most iconic estates, has announced that early reservations are officially open for its highly anticipated reopening in spring 2026. After a comprehensive, multi-year renovation, the historic Oakville property is set to debut an inspired array of immersive programs designed to delight both seasoned collectors and passionate wine explorers.

Among the new experiences are expertly guided cellar tours and intimate tastings showcasing Robert Mondavi Winery’s award-winning portfolio of luxury wines, each experience thoughtfully curated to deepen your understanding of Napa Valley’s terroir and the pioneering legacy of Robert and Margrit Mondavi, who helped shape the area’s food, wine, and cultural legacy.

Reservations can be secured through Tock at www.exploretock.com/robertmondavi

Signature Experiences

Napa Discovery Tour & Tasting

$55 per person – Duration: 60 Minutes

Embark on a guided walk through the state-of-the-art production and aging cellars. Conclude your visit with a seated tasting of select wines, led by an expert wine educator, as you explore Napa Valley’s unique terroir and the Mondavis’ indelible impact on California wine culture.

Estate Experience

$85 per person – Duration: 75 Minutes

Engage in a seated tasting that dives deeper into vineyard expression, precision farming, and the winery’s commitment to sustainability. Led by a knowledgeable educator, this experience illuminates the nuanced character of Robert Mondavi’s distinguished vineyard sites.

To Kalon Reserve Tasting

$125 per person – Duration: 75 Minutes

Discover the crown jewel of Robert Mondavi Winery, the legendary To Kalon Vineyard. This exclusive tasting pairs limited-production wines with refined culinary accompaniments, offering unparalleled insight into To Kalon’s heritage and the visionary winemaking it inspires.

This is a rare chance to secure your place at the forefront of Robert Mondavi Winery’s next chapter.

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa: Is A Chic Urban Retreat in the Heart of Lisbon

Tucked away in Lisbon’s charismatic Bairro Alto district, The Lumiares Hotel & Spa is not just a hotel; it’s a design-forward, soulfully Portuguese experience that seamlessly blends elegance, authenticity, and a deep sense of place. This five-star boutique gem, part of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and featured in the Condé Nast Johansens Luxury Hotels 2025 guide, has earned accolades for its intuitive hospitality and earned the 2024 award for Best Bar in Europe, for good reason.

Set in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace, The Lumiares reimagines luxury for the modern traveller. The design tells a distinctly Portuguese story: think bold patterned tiles, original artworks by Lisbon-based creatives, handcrafted furniture, and warm textures that nod to the city’s vibrant culture.

Each of the 47 apartment-style suites, from Studios to the two-bedroom Penthouse, offers both style and space. Fully equipped kitchens with SMEG appliances, elegant living and dining areas, and plush king-sized beds ensure guests feel truly at home. Oversized windows frame iconic cityscapes of terracotta rooftops, winding cobblestone alleys, and distant river views.

A true highlight of my stay was the Lumi Rooftop Bar & Restaurant. Set high above Lisbon, it offers sweeping 180° views of the Tagus River and the timeless charm of the Alfama historic skyline.

What made it so special? The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between polished sophistication and laid-back charm. Chef João Silva’s seasonal menus showcase fresh, local ingredients with creativity and flair, while the craft cocktails celebrate Portugal’s rich culinary heritage with inventive twists.

It’s no surprise that Lumi was awarded Best Bar in Europe 2024 by Condé Nast Johansens, a well-earned recognition for a truly memorable experience.

The Lumiares Spa is a hidden oasis in the city. The treatment menu includes everything from deep-tissue and Ayurvedic massages to organic facials and detoxifying rituals. Facilities include a sauna, steam room, and a 24-hour gym.

The Lumiares Concierge team excels at curating bespoke experiences tailored to each guest. Think:

Private tuk-tuk tours through Lisbon’s oldest quarters
Artisan-led azulejo tile painting workshops
Food and wine tastings showcasing local petiscos and boutique wines
Sunset sailing on the Tagus River
Fado music nights in nearby Alfama

For oenophiles, the hotel can arrange private vineyard day trips to Setúbal or Colares, two of Portugal’s most fascinating and under-discovered wine regions.

The hotel’s enviable central location makes it an ideal base for walking and exploring:

Chiado and Principe Real shopping districts – 5-minute walk
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – just steps away, perfect for golden hour
Elevador da Glória – right outside, connects guests to downtown Baixa
Carmo Convent and Santa Justa Lift – under 10 minutes on foot
Time Out Market and the Ribeira waterfront – 15-minute stroll

“The Lumiares is effortlessly Lisbon: layered, expressive, welcoming, and deeply rooted in place. It invites you not just to visit the city, but to live it.” Liz Palmer

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