Featured Comments (0)

New Rare wine Range for Matthew Clark

Unconventional wines from a popular wine region are being introduced to the on-trade via Matthew Clark. Rare Vineyards comprises a Carignan, Malbec and Pinot Noir, each created using grapes sourced from selected growers in the Languedoc. "Carignan is usually found as a component in a blend, while Malbec and Pinot Noir are associated with other French wine-producing regions," said Peter Crameri, UK manager for producer Alain Grignon. "We have found parcels of vineyards in the Languedoc producing excellent examples of each of these grapes, and the story of these 'rare vineyards' is told on the front label." [...more]

Announcements, New Products, News, Wines

Smirnoff Rolls Out Flavoured Vodkas

Diageo has launched two new flavours of its 100 proof Smirnoff vodka. Spiced root beer and dark roasted espresso, under the Blue Label portfolio, are the first flavoured additions to 100 proof. David Tapscott, Diageo director of Smirnoff vodka, said: "Spiced Root Beer and Dark Roasted Espresso are great additions to our portfolio, and signify the brand's commitment to being 'there'- 'there' at the forefront of innovation with a unique approach to the category; and 'there' offering consumers new ways to enjoy life's many flavours and good times responsibly." [...more]

Announcements, New Products, News, Spirits

Wine Fraud Continues

Recalling the Gallo Pinot fraud of recent weeks, Harpers wine and spirit reports that Scotland Yard has made six arrests in connection with a suspected fine wine investment scam. Fraud squad officers believe that tens of thousands of pounds have been handed over by investors who were told they were buying premium Australian wines. Reports say the alleged offences had already netted the organisers more than £3 million. Two women and four men were arrested at addresses in south east London. [...more]

Announcements, News, Wines

AB InBev Swaps subbies For Tradeteam

Subcontractors working for drinks firm AB InBev UK have been dealt a blow after its decision to transfer its primary logistic operations to DHL's Tradeteam division. A spokeswoman for AB Inbev says: "I can confirm the company has written to members of our haulage partnership scheme to advise that the scheme will terminate at the end of March. All members have been put in touch with Tradeteam to discuss the opportunity to work together going forwards." Subcontractors who agree to work with Tradeteam can be released from the notice period early to begin working under the new agreements, however, terms and conditions will be set by the drinks haulier, and not AB InBev. The Beck's and Stella Artois maker has awarded Tradeteam primary logistics operations from its Magor, Preston and London breweries to several DCs including Enfield, Knowsley and Sheffield. Tradeteam is already handling secondary distribution for the firm. [...more]

Announcements, Beer, News

Pilsen chosen as sponsor of Deportivo Independiente Medellin football team

Bavaria S A's Pilsen has been chosen as the official sponsor of the Columbian football team Deportivo Independiente Medellin (DIM) for the next two years. The official presentation of the new shirt endorsed by the beer company took place on Friday (March 5th). Fernando Jaramillo Giraldo, vice-president of corporate affairs at Bavaria, said that the new agreement strengthens the brand's "emotional ties" with its consumers and also "fills us with joy, for this team is a hallmark in the city, as well as being one of the oldest clubs in the country". [...more]

Announcements, Beer, News

Rebrand of Caffrey’s Irish Ale

Brewer Molson Coors is relaunching Caffrey's Irish Ale with a lower ABV and a collector card scheme to drive sales From 15 March the premium draught will be reduced from 4.2% ABV to 3.8% ABV. On-trade sales will be supported with a "Buy three get a free one next time you're in" collector card scheme. A new point of sale kit will be available to help promote the rebranding. [...more]

Announcements, Beer, New Products, News

Bombardier Supports St George’s Day

Bombardier is providing UK pubs with kits in the run-up to St George's Day, supported by its biggest campaign for the brand to date. Merchandise in the kits includes bunting, pump-clip wobblers, balloons, tent cards and competitions to win VIP trips to the Great British Beer Festival. "Every year St George's Day has grown and last year our stockists sold more Bombardier in St George's Day week than ever before," said Wells & Young's marketing director Chris Lewis. "The kits are just one element of Bombardier's support to the trade for St George's Day." [...more]

Announcements, Beer, News