Natalie Wang

Exploring Key Themes in Wine and Hospitality Research The American Association of Wine Economists has just published the latest issue of the Journal of Wine Economics, and it has a special focus: reporting the results of a workshop held by the Alliance for Research on Wine and Hospitality in late 2022. The editors of the special issue note that “the articles selected . . . illustrate the intricacy of the wine industry.” This includes “exploring the intersections of producers, retailers, managers, and consumers within the wine sector.” The researchers employed “a wide range of quantitative research methods using detailed data from the industry as well as from experiments.” The articles explore a number of different topics, including restaurant wine lists, consumer wine ratings, predicting fine wine prices, and gender bias in wine purchasing by consumers. The special issue articles, therefore, offer a detailed examination of various aspects of the wine industry, shedding light on its multifaceted nature, which will be of great interest to those involved in the on-trade and sommeliers as well as wine producers and distributors. Read the full blog on USA Wine Ratings (USA Ratings)

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Wine and Health - Scientific studies shows the health benefits of wine Despite the current debate about whether wine is good for you or not at moderate levels, there are also recent scientific studies that have provided evidence to support these claims, highlighting the positive effects of wine, particularly red wine, on various aspects of human health Research continues to uncover the various health benefits of wine and it remains true that wine can be a valuable component of a balanced and healthy lifestyle #health #salud #vinho #wine #wines #saúde #winebusiness #wineindustry #wein #vini #vino

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Two wine companies listed among China’s Top 50 Wine Importers have told us they are being owed tens of thousands of yuan in unpaid debts following the abrupt closure of a prominent Shanghai restaurant group, Camel. This news is the latest of a wave of closures hitting many of Shanghai's prominent restuarants including three michelin-starred restaurant Ultraviolet. Wine suppliers are reacting by switching to cash-on-delivery system and tightenng controls on accounts receivable. Read more in our story here. #news #shanghai #restaurants #dining #finedining #closure #wine #winemerhcant #supplier #Michelin #michelinguide #Ultraviolet #CamelHospitalityGroup #wineimporters

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Wellness and wine are not mutually exclusive. In fact, moderate wine consumption has positive effect on wellbeing. The keyword being MODERATE. Too often the shortcut wine = alcohol = drunk = hangover is made. However, wine is a MULTISENSORY experience. If one approaches wine with the mindset of being mindfully present in the moment and tuning into their senses then there is no need for large quantities. Wine, akin life, is about SAVOURING the essence of the moment. My tip: prefer 2 or 3 oz pours which enable you to enjoy 2 pours or even sample 2 different wines and TAKE YOUR TIME. #wineinmoderation #wellness #winebusiness #mindfuldrinking

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Anyone who's selling wine or trying to sell wine to China, should pay attention to upcoming consumption tax reform. Ahead of Third Plenum meeting next week, discussions on consumption tax reform has intensified. Its impacts on wine are closely followed by wine merchants as the tax reform proposal might mean that imported wines will get much more expensive for consumers. We talked to different importers and retailers on the ground to get their reactions on the proposed reform. Some welcomed the change, as the burden will be passed from importers to retailers/consumers when sales are made, while others are apprehensive, fearing it might discourage sales when demand is already soft. Full report and analysis here. #tax #consumption #reform #wine #importedwine #retailer #importer #trade #winemerchant #news #analysis #market #china

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VINEXPO HONG KONG 2024: A FEW TAKEAWAYS #2 TRE BICCHIERI AND HOW TO EXIST IN A SATURATED MARKET On Wednesday, May 29th, Vinexpo Hong Kong featured another grand tasting, focusing on some old-world wines—the Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri award-winning wines from the Vini d'Italia 2024 guidebook. This event provided an excellent opportunity to discover lesser-known wineries and grape varieties, expanding one's wine horizons. The quality of the wines was great. How did this tasting differ from the Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux event the day before? Unlike Bordeaux, where the focus was on established wineries, most exhibitors at Tre Bicchieri were actively seeking importers. This highlights a common challenge faced by many winemakers participating in these wine fairs. And the current post-COVID slow down in the Mainland China and Hong Kong markets, has further accentuated this issue. Furthermore, in Hong Kong alone, there were over 4,000 active companies operating in the wine sector in 2019 (source: Italian Trade Agency 2020), with 740 wholesale importers in 2022 (source: HK Census and Statistics Department). This saturation of the market has made it increasingly difficult for newcomers to secure shelf space or placement on wine lists. Even established players face challenges in maintaining their position. The mainland China market presents an even more complex landscape, requiring winemakers to identify reliable partners capable of establishing a sustainable business. The conference held on Thursday, May 30th, titled "Selling Your Wine in a Crowded Market" and presented by Richard Hemming MW, Head of Wine at 67 Pall Mall Singapore (a Private Member Club), addressed this topic. Richard Hemming shared his experiences and offered valuable tips for winemakers on how to navigate a crowded market, including: -         Patience and the ability to effectively communicate who you are (name, price, history of your winery). -         Understand your brand image and what sets you apart from others, -         Innovate but keep in mind innovation has to bring something valuable for your customers -         Stay authentic -         With nearly 20,000 competitors vying for each spot, it's crucial to have a compelling story to tell. -         Build connections with buyers before attempting to sell your products; show your passion. One good news is you can still meet importers from emerging wine markets like Vietnam in exhibitions like Vinexpo.  Hence, wine producers still have blue ocean areas to explore. However, my advice is not to wait the maturation of these new markets to connect with local importers to avoid the above mentioned situation. #VinexpoAsia #WineHongKong #WineMarketing #TreBicchieri Gambero Rosso

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🚨 The Italian wine sector needs a wake-up call! 🚨 Recent ISTAT data processed by the Wine Observatory of Unione Italiana Vini paints a grim picture: consumers under 24 represent only 6.5% of total wine drinkers, while those over 65 make up 30%. This alarming trend highlights a significant disengagement from regular wine consumption among young Italians, who prefer more sporadic and diverse drinking habits. 🔍 Why is this happening? A major factor is our industry's struggle with innovation, especially in communication. At a recent event, young hospitality students were far more engaged with a mixology session than a traditional wine tasting. The difference? Simplicity and inclusivity in communication. While the wine tasting was informative, it followed the classic, detailed approach, which seemed to alienate the younger audience. In contrast, the cocktail tasting was brief, engaging, and kept the students glued to their seats. 🍷 Our sector is clinging to rigid traditions, often fearing to simplify or modernize. We must break these patterns to appeal to a broader, younger audience. Innovation shouldn't be scary – it’s essential for our future. The wine industry must embrace change, not just in product but in how we communicate and present ourselves. Simplifying wine communication doesn't mean losing depth; it means making wine accessible and exciting for everyone. Anyone who has entered a cocktail bar knows the thrill of feeling like a mixology expert in minutes. This appeal is especially strong for the younger generation, who shy away from anything that seems intimidating. If our sector continues to resist change, we risk becoming obsolete, trapped by an image of elitism and out-of-touch tradition. Let's embrace innovation and make wine exciting for everyone! 🍇 #WineInnovation #ItalianWine #YouthEngagement #WineIndustry #FutureOfWine #WineCommunication #Innovation #TraditionMeetsModernity

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Insights from Adriana Valentini: Key Criteria and Trends for Winning at the London Wine Competition London Competitions. For wine producers aiming to make an impression in the UK or global markets, the London Wine Competition (LWC) is an essential platform. Winning here is about more than just collecting a medal; it’s about opening doors to new opportunities in one of the most competitive wine markets. To understand what it takes to stand out at the LWC, we spoke with Adriana Valentini, a distinguished wine judge and sommelier.

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The authoritative wine critic Ian D'agata includes CADGAL wines among the "most exciting wines of the Vinitaly Fair 2024": "On a different but just as meritorious note are the two entry-level wines made by Ca’ D’Gal, a winery that is expanding under the guidance of newly arrived Alessandro Varagnolo. The top bottling vintage cru wines are noteworthy (as is the source of their grapes, the grand cru area of Canelli) but it’s the winery’s two less expensive bottlings that I want to tell you about, for they are those that will leave you looking to fill up your glass again (and again). The Ca’ D’ Gal Asti Spumante is one of the two best, at no worse three best, such wines made in Italy today, a category that is often the realm of cheap, and cheaply-made, industrial sparklers of little depth and class that outside of their low price hold little interest for anyone. Drinking window: 2024-2025. Similarly, the Ca’ D’ Gal Moscato d’Asti Lumine is everything a good Moscato d’Asti is and should be: sweet but not cloying, fresh and easygoing but also complex and with some depth. Given it’s an entry-level wine, it’s price tag makes it an even bigger steal than Moscato d’Asti wines already are, most of the time. Drinking window: 2024-2038." Studio Cru | Ufficio stampa, PR internazionali & digital marketing per il wine&food Elena Deganello Tullia Mantella Beatrice Bianchi Giulia Tirapelle Anita B. #piedmont #winemarketing #winetasting #studiocru https://lnkd.in/dEe-t3E2

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In today’s Substack chapter from Culinary Approach to Wine In Restaurants the subject is how sensory perception (or misperception) has always led to the surfeit of wine myths, past, present or seemingly perpetual. #restaurantwine #sommelier #sommelierlife #HospitalityManagement #WineMyths #paristasting

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Today's Lodi Wine post covers everything you need to know about Assyrtiko (https://lnkd.in/gBAznvX5), the ancient Greek grape that has all the viticultural and sensory attributes necessary to become a major Lodi wine of the future. #assyrtiko #perlegosfamilywine #lodiwine #lodiwinecountry #randycaparosophotography

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Chinese wine market - While the last decade has – until recently – been one of growing success for her business, since 2017, domestic and imported wine sales in China have been falling steadily. As wine exporters to China have discovered, prices have become increasingly sensitive and the market far more difficult to manage profitably #china #wine #wines #chinesewines #winebusiness #asia #wineindustry

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The fine wine market has offered unique opportunities for investors in 2024. This year, Italy has stood out as the most resilient region. Despite a 4.1% dip in prices since the end of 2023, Italy’s market continues to show stable performance and relative value. Meanwhile, Burgundy has seen the largest decline of 14.7%, making it a region to watch before prices start rising again. Champagne, down 10.6% on average, is showing signs of recovery, with labels like Taittinger Brut Millesime and Ruinart Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs seeing notable growth. With prices on the lower side, now is an ideal time to diversify investment portfolios and position for long-term growth. Read the full breakdown by WineCap on the best wine investment regions for 2024: https://lnkd.in/dGSFM5cy

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Ten years ago, apart from old Vins Jaunes, not even three figure sums (in £, $ or €) were achieved for Jura wines - today, you can see four figure sums for some wines that have been widely speculated on. It's certainly not Jura's wine producers that are gaining from this... This article has been adapted from my new book, Jura Wine Ten Years On (now available https://lnkd.in/dyWaTf_7) https://lnkd.in/dyvKPdtY

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Join us for an exclusive webinar dedicated to exploring the dynamic landscape of wine import and growth opportunities for Italian wines in the UK market. Whether you are a winemaker, distributor, or wine enthusiast, this event will provide valuable insights and strategies for navigating and succeeding in the UK's thriving wine industry. Date: 30th of July Time: 10am - 11am On Zoom Webinar Highlights: - Market Overview: Understand the current trends and future projections for Italian wines in the UK market. - Consumer Preferences:*Gain insights into UK consumer preferences and how Italian wines can meet and exceed these expectations. - Marketing Strategies: Discover effective marketing and branding strategies to increase the visibility and sales of Italian wines in the UK. - Q&A Session: Engage with our panel of experts to get answers to your specific questions and challenges. Why Attend? Learn from industry leaders with extensive experience in wine import and market growth. Connect with professionals and peers in the wine industry. Walk away with practical strategies to boost your business and brand presence in the UK. Who Should Attend? - Italian Winemakers and Producers - Wine Importers and Distributors - Wine Retailers and Wholesalers - Marketing and Sales Professionals in the Wine Industry - Wine Enthusiasts and Sommeliers How to Register: Secure your spot today by registering at [Insert Registration Link]. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of Italian wines in the UK market. RSVP for details and to attend this webinar : https://lnkd.in/eGUEc-rX Sid Patel Ankita O. London Competitions #ukmarketwine #winecompetitions #winewebnar #winemarketing

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UK Sees Surge in Wine Tourism WineGB has released its first wine tourism report, revealing a significant surge in visits to UK vineyards and wineries. The recent findings indicate that visits have surged by 55% in the past two years, underscoring the growing popularity of wine tourism in England and Wales. The report further indicates that 1.5 million people visited UK vineyards and wineries last year, accounting for a quarter of the total income for these establishments. The industry anticipates continued growth and investment, with WineGB forecasting further expansion in the coming years. WineGB’s 2024 Industry Survey, which captured responses from over 130 members accounting for more than 90% of UK wine production, provides a detailed snapshot of the sector’s forward momentum. The survey reveals that there are currently 300 vineyards and wineries actively engaged in wine tourism. Among the top activities attracting visitors include: 275 cellar doors and shops 260 guided tours and tastings 103 venues for hire 97 self-guided tours 92 places to stay and eat 38 picnic areas A notable 42% of inbound visitors expressed high interest in visiting a winery. According to Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB, commented on the report’s findings: “Our Manifesto for Growth identified essential policies for accelerating our sector’s development. Today’s report showcases the immense value and importance of wine tourism in our industry. It’s our call to action for policy changes in tax, planning, and marketing to unlock the full potential of wine tourism and reach 16 million visitors. #WineGB #winetourism #vineyardvisits #wineryvisits #englishwineweek #winenews #tourismnews #EnglishWineWeek2024 #EnglishWine #Vineyards #wine #winelovers #tourism

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Grappa's Global Surge: Insights into Export Markets and Implications for the Hospitality Industry. Full report on London Competitions. Grappa, the Italian distilled spirit, is experiencing a remarkable surge in its global export market, showcasing a 32% increase in recent years. This success is not just a reflection of its superior quality and craftsmanship, but also a result of strategic marketing efforts positioning grappa as a premium product in the spirits landscape. A Global Phenomenon: Grappa's Export Growth Data from AssoDistil recently showed that grappa's exports have surged by an impressive 32%, highlighting its growing popularity worldwide. Export values from 2019 to 2022 reached 60 million euros. Key markets include Germany, the United States, and Japan, with the latter two experiencing remarkable growth rates of +39% and +40% respectively. This significant increase is attributed to several key factors, including the inherent sophistication of Italian distillates, the diverse range of flavors and styles offered by grappa, and the strategic marketing campaigns implemented by producers. But this hasn’t always been the case. This Italian spirit made from grape pomace has historically struggled to gain appreciation owing to industrial production techniques and lack of nuance. One spirits expert recalled: “My first encounter was a Grappa di Moscato that had been homebrewed by an old-school grape grower from the Langhe region, and it nearly blew my head clean off! When attempting to buy a couple of bottles from local supermarkets in Piemonte to see if I was missing something, the effect was much the same. I assumed I had missed the point of this drink completely.” However, a group of committed distilleries started leading a resurgence in grappa quality and reputation and here they are. DISTILLERIA SANTA TERESA DEI F.LLI MAROLO S.R.L. London Competitions

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