News

Tax increases to hit drinks industry

The UK’s hospitality industry is bracing for the latest in painful hits due to the government raising taxes across the spectrum. According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, if current plans are enacted, the scale of the tax increases will be large by historic standards. These will start this month with an increase in rates…

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Grey Goose 30% ABV Essences coming to UK

Bacardi says that following a successful launch in the USA, Gray Goose Essences are coming to the UK in April.  Made with Grey Goose Vodka and infused with real fruit essences and cold-distilled botanicals, they will be available in three fresh and distinct flavours. With increasing demand for fresh tasting flavours and natural ingredients, Grey…

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Gordon Ramsay launches gin

TV chef, reality show star, and former face of Gordon’s Gin is launching his own gin in collaboration with Scotland’s Eden Mill St Andrews distillery and brewery. Inspired by the rivers, lochs, and landscape of Scotland, and a shared desire to source produce sustainably, Ramsay’s Gin Recipe No. 1 is an innovative and delicious twist…

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The variable data behind sustainable food supply chains 

Organisations and businesses worldwide – including UK distilleries – are facing increasing regulatory pressure to provide greater traceability of their products. This pressure is two-fold, stemming from the need to protect consumer health and safety, and develop more transparent, future-proof supply chains. These drivers for change could be viewed as a necessary evil – a…

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Irish whiskey popularity soars

As Americans and the world prepare to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on 17 March, no doubt Irish whiskey will be top of mind. But, this is no longer just a once-a-year drink but is being enjoyed throughout the year. According to preliminary data from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, the leading authority on the global beverage…

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Diageo hit by £1.2 million fine

For six-years three of Diageo’s Scottish distilleries operated without an emissions trading scheme (ETS) permit. Now, the spirit giant being fined £1.39 million – reduced to £1.2 million on appeal – by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). “ETS is a crucial step towards achieving Scotland’s goal of a 75% reduction in CO2 emissions by…

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Barrel shortage grows in USA

American bourbon and whiskey distillers are facing a barrel shortage, with many seeing either a lack of availability or a lengthy wait for orders to be filled. With many of these barrels ultimately finding their way into the Scottish and Irish whisky industry, it could ultimately affected the industry here as well. According to Vinepair,…

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Thank the youths – fewer alcohol control polices coming

Due to a decline in youth (15-25-years-old) drinking in most high-income countries over the last 20-years, fewer alcohol control measures seem to be in the cards, according to a new article in the ‘International Journal of Drug Policy’. Youth drinking has declined across most high-income countries in the last 20 years. Although researchers and commentators…

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UK supermarkets say ‘nyet’ to Russian vodka

Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Asda and Waitrose have all announced they will axe Russian products amid the war in Ukraine. This will include Russian vodka. According to the BBC, Sainsbury’s will remove Russian Standard vodka and from its shelves. Waitrose, which is part of the John Lewis Partnership, will no longer sell Russian vodka either. Asda’s announcement…

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Schweppes launches two new products

Schweppes has launched two new products, Grapefruit Slimline Tonic and also three flavours in a new 600ml glass bottle.  The former was launched in response to changing consumer drinking habits, with the new grapefruit flavour mirroring desire for fresh, fruity citrus flavours, perfect for summer drinking. Schweppes Slimline Grapefruit Tonic is described as a refreshingly dry and…

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