The global wine trade. A U.S. perspective.
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A Decanter blind tasting of 105 southern Rhône cru whites found wines from every appellation represented except Laudun among its 14 Outstanding selections. The report also points to a wider shift: Gigondas began producing cru whites with the 2023 vintage, Vinsobres is set to follow in 2026, and 11 Côtes du Rhône named villages have asked appellation authorities to allow white wine production.
Policy & regulation
Policy & regulation
Policy & regulation
The Scotch Whisky Association has appealed DEFRA’s approval of the English Whisky geographical indication. In a joint statement, Irish, Scotch and Welsh whisky associations raised concerns about the GI’s process and production rules, particularly its allowance for mashing and fermentation away from the distillery. The English Whisky Guild says the GI codifies existing industry practices.
Policy & regulation
An opinion article reports that a federal judge ordered Peninsula Township to pay nearly $50 million to 11 wineries over local rules governing winery events and grape sourcing. The township appealed, and collection was paused by a stay issued in March 2026. The piece argues the ordinances were unjustified, making this a legal dispute and critical commentary that requires review.