Counting Down the Days: 100 Festive Cocktails to Get Excited About as Christmas Approaches
With less than 100 days until Christmas, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your holiday festivities. Top of the agenda for many is the delightful array of Christmas cookies and holiday mains. Yet, what really sets the holiday mood for me is indulging in a festive and spirited drink. To get us all in the holiday spirit, I’ve gathered a selection of our favorite holiday cocktails. Forget about just the 25 Days of Christmas—these 12 cocktails are fantastic for ushering in the holiday cheer early and keeping it going right until the big day.
Although these are holiday-themed, many of these cocktails are simple to make and utilize ingredients that are readily available all year round. There’s no reason to wait—start enjoying these festive beverages immediately and keep the spirit alive past December.
A creative twist on the classic drink, the Aperol spritz, involves adding a splash of cranberry for a festive, vibrant red hue. Opt for 100% cranberry juice if you prefer it less sweet.
Find your way to the festive Cranberry-Aperol Spritz recipe here.
Scrooge might have been grumpy, but a taste of this delightful yet refreshing winter cocktail could have easily brightened his mood. This concoction draws its essence from the holiday favorite, mulled wine, using a simple syrup to elevate this festive drink.
Discover the Scrooge Sour recipe.
Combining the tartness of cranberry juice with the floral hints of elderflower liqueur and sage, this cocktail is ideal for sipping in hopes of a Christmas kiss beneath the mistletoe. Even without the kiss, you’ll find wonderful company in this drink.
Explore the Mistletoe Martini recipe.
Looking to elevate your holiday gatherings while keeping your favorite party beverage in the mix? Try the Mrs. “Claws” cocktail. You’ll be the star of any event when you show up ready to make this tasty and festive cocktail with the beloved hard seltzer.
Get the Mrs. “Claws” Cocktail recipe.
When transitioning summer sangria to cooler seasons, apple cider is a popular choice that may lean towards the sweeter side. Add some cranberry juice to keep it vibrant and tangy, making it a perfect drink for the colder months.
Get the Cranberry Apple Sangria recipe.
Apparently only 25% of Americans are able to get a white Christmas, which, in our opinion, is totally unfair. If you’re in that remaining 75%, we’ve got you covered with this mojito. With this cocktail in hand, you won’t even need to pay attention to the forecast.
Get the White Christmas Mojito recipe.
Everyone’s favorite boozy coffee drink just got a holiday makeover. With a simple combo of Kahlúa, vodka, and heavy cream, the White Russian is already the king of creamy after-dinner cocktails, but adding a splash of peppermint schnapps makes it perfect for a seasonal celebration.
Get the Peppermint White Russian recipe.
One of the joys of hosting during the festive season is displaying an array of cute treats with charming names, right? Thus, we crafted this delightful sugarplum spritz. This beverage is a light, refreshing, and seasonal twist on a favorite summer drink, perfect for any holiday celebration.
Get the Sugarplum Spritz recipe.
This vibrant red concoction is a tribute to the dirty Shirley, enhanced with playful garnishes like sweetened coconut (resembling Christmas snow) and a peppermint stick that transforms holiday gloom into festive cheer swiftly.
Get the Santa’s Hat Cocktail recipe.
This winter-themed take on a whiskey sour introduces a bold ginger taste along with tangy cranberry juice. Although simple in ingredients, it delivers strong, vibrant flavors that are a perfect match for sumptuous holiday appetizers such as baked brie and bacon-wrapped dates.
Get the Ginger-Cranberry Whiskey Sour recipe.
Peppermint bark enthusiasts, this one’s for you. For those feeling extra festive, pair it with our other favorite seasonal delight, pretzel peppermint bark. No judgment here.
Get the Peppermint Martinis recipe.
Not only does this adorable cocktail look the part, but if you close your eyes, it also tastes just like gingerbread cookies, thanks to a homemade spiced simple syrup. Top these with store-bought (or homemade!) cookies to take the cute factor over the top.
Get the Gingerbread Martini recipe.
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Hulk Hogan to Promote “Real American Beer” in Champaign Event
Hulk Hogan co-founded Real American Beer, which is expanding its footprint in Illinois.
CHAMPAIGN — Hulk Hogan of WWE fame is coming to Champaign this week.
Real American Beer, a brand co-founded by Hogan, has announced that it is expanding its footprint to Illinois. Hogan is holding a three-day tour to promote the launch, which includes three stops in Champaign on Friday:
“I’ve got some unforgettable memories from my time wrestling in this state — like the Rosemont Horizon in ’85, where I defended the WWF championship,” Hogan said. “Now, I’m back with Real American Beer, and we’re here to make history once again.”
Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer is expanding its footprint in Illinois.
Fans will have a chance to meet the team, sample beer and win merchandise at the events, company officials said. Additionally, the Real American RV will be at Kam’s Bar at 7 p.m. Friday for a Tailgate Viewing Party.
Illinois marks the 12th state in Real American Beer’s expansion.
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Costco Launches Exciting 2024 Whiskey Advent Calendar: What’s Inside?
The holiday excitement is in full swing at Costco, with the return of their beloved advent calendars. This year’s 2024 whiskey advent calendar is here to delight whiskey aficionados.
Tasting Table describes the 2024 edition as a “whisky tour of the world,” showcasing 24 different whiskey samples from 20 countries, including the likes of Kentucky, Scotland, Taiwan, and India. Each box is priced around $240, translating to approximately $10 per 50-milliliter mini bottle.
The assortment includes a variety of whiskies in the box such as Green River bourbon from Kentucky, Mackmyra Svensk Ek from Sweden, Nc’Nean from Scotland, Kavalan from Taiwan, Lark from Australia, and Hatozaki from Japan, giving just a glimpse of the wide array available.
Among other notable whiskies are Indri Trini from India, Pokeno from New Zealand, M&H from Israel, Breckinridge from Colorado, Helsinki from Finland, Abasolo from Mexico, and Puni from Italy. This diverse selection offers something for every whiskey lover, featuring bourbons, single malt scotches, ryes, and various whiskey blends.
Unfortunately, the 2024 whiskey advent calendar is only available in states that allow for the sale of liquor at Costco, which means that residents of Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Texas, among others, are sadly out of luck. But for those who are lucky enough to live near a booze-friendly Costco, you may want to hold off until early December when the boxes go on sale.
Dining Delight: A Review of Hermana’s Kitchen & Cocktails in Lindenhurst
A rainbow carrot taco with al pastor sauce, curtido and cotija cheese at Hermanas in Lindenurst.
Hermanas’ mission statement emphasizes its innovative and thoughtful culinary and cocktail offerings, inspired by Hispanic traditions. While not a destination for traditional regional Mexican dishes or Salvadoran pupusas, the restaurant excels in creating bright flavors and stunning presentations, crafted expertly by chef Edwin Corrado, whose creations are both logical and tantalizingly delicious.
The decision to hire Corrado was among several astute choices by trio Sara Pesserillo, Lauren Nash, and Kristen Lapof, who founded Hermanas in 2020. Though not sisters by blood, their years in the hospitality industry across various venues in Long Island helped them develop a deep, sisterly bond, which inspired the name Hermanas, meaning “sisters” in Spanish.
Hermanas Kitchen & Cocktails was established in Lindenhurst in 2020.
The dining area displays a playful design with various white chairs, empty yet ornate golden picture frames, and a vibrant tiled bar. The service is equally delightful: the staff are well-informed, amiable, and efficient, clearly enjoying their work environment. It’s a joy for them to serve some of the finest tacos found on Long Island, offering selections that range from classic (slow-cooked pork) to nostalgic (old-fashioned hard shell tacos with ground beef) and novel (the cauliflower taco is a must-try).
Other menu highlights include pupusas, ceviche, empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, and carne asada, which honor Latin American culinary traditions. However, the kitchen also adeptly handles fusion dishes like mussels in a Cajun cream sauce and chicharron (featured occasionally), flawless salads, and customizable bowls built on a base of rice, pink beans, and arugula, which can be tailored with various proteins, vegetables, cheeses, and toppings. The cocktails served at the bar are crafted with equal finesse and skill.
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Erica Marcus, a devoted yet critical omnivore, has been covering and commenting on the food scene in Long Island since 1998.
Boosting Profits: President of Treasury Americas Unveils New Wine Strategy
Ben Dollard, President of Treasury Americas
With reports of global wine sales volume declines for the past two years, it was refreshing to learn that one of the world’s largest publicly traded wine corporations, Treasury Wine Estates, actually achieved an 8% increase in profit during its recent fiscal year (ending July 30, 2024).
Given Treasury’s flurry of both acquisitions and divestments, many people have been curious about how these results were achieved. Therefore, I reached out to Ben Dollard, President of Treasury Americas, and in an online interview he explained how the company’s new focus on the ultra-premium and luxury wine segments was allowing them to pull ahead of the pack.
“We are pleased with the outcome of our results – specifically with our U.S. wine businesses,” stated Dollard. “Highlights include the acquisitions of Daou and Frank Family wineries to complement our other brands. And we became a $1 billion business for the first time (in Australian dollars).”
The net profit for Treasury Wine Estates was AU$407.5 million (fiscal year 2024), marking an 8% increase from the previous fiscal year, as detailed in their annual report.
What strategies did Treasury Wine Estates, a unique publicly traded wine-only company (unlike its diversely invested competitors), employ to record such a success?
During our discussion, Dollard highlighted five key strategic focus areas that have been instrumental in bolstering Treasury’s profitability.
With a collection of over 70 renowned wine brands worldwide, including historic names like Penfolds Grange in Australia, Georges de Latour at Beaulieu Vineyards, and Beringer Private Reserve in Napa Valley, Treasury has developed a strong and flexible global portfolio.
For example, when China imposed tariffs of up to 200% on Australian wines in 2021 (they were just lifted in March of 2024), Treasury was able to focus on other markets.
“Penfolds was already distributed throughout Europe and the U.S., so we pivoted to other markets,” explained Dollard. “It shows the great strength of our relationships and distribution capability around the world.”
Carefully curating the portfolio is part of this strategic focus, and explains the flurry of acquisitions and divestitures Treasury has embarked upon in the last few years.
“We are focused on the luxury wine market of $20 per bottle and above, and are divesting commercial brands priced at $10 per bottle or less,” reported Dollard.
To this end, they have recently announced they are selling lower priced brands within Blossom Hill, Lindeman’s, Wolf Blass and Yellowglen.
On the luxury side, their acquisition of Frank Family Vineyards in Napa Valley and Daou in Paso Robles, both well-known brands in the U.S. with price points ranging from $20 to $300 per bottle, match this strategy well.
“Both brands filled out important parts of the portfolio over $20, and they are growing rapidly,” said Dollard. Treasury defines luxury wine brands as over $20 per bottle and premium brands as $11 to $20 per bottle.
Indeed, according to Tim Ford, Treasury Wine Estates CEO, more than 75% of their revenues are derived from their luxury brands.
Daou Winery in Paso Robles, California – Part of the Treasury Americas Portfolio
Treasury doesn’t solely focus on high-end wines, understanding that past financial downturns urged a shift back to more economical choices. Thus, they sustain their popular premium wines, priced between $11 and $20, known as their ‘Bold Brands’ category.
Brands like Matua, 19 Crimes, Squealing Pig, and Pepperjack comprise this division. “These brands help us engage new consumers and invigorate innovation,” stated Dollard.
Innovation is evident through Matua’s innovative label from New Zealand, featuring a thermometer that changes its color to signal the wine’s ideal chill temperature. Similarly, 19 Crimes uses augmented reality technology on its labels to animate narratives of notorious Australian outlaws.
“We believe in investing in digital marketing, technology, and innovation to connect with consumers,” stated Dollard.
“We have a consumer lens, and spend a lot of time trying to understand how consumers want to engage with us and our brands.”
Treasury spends a lot of time focusing on the wine consumer and their needs, and is especially interested in understanding the needs of new consumer segments.
“We have a consumer lens, and spend a lot of time trying to understand how consumers want to engage with us and our brands,” stated Dollard. “We like to be there to engage with consumers in the market and at events, as well as when they visit our wineries.”
Therefore, Treasury creates a variety of consumer experiences at different locations. “We recently participated in the luxury car show in Monterey (Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance), and showcased our Daou wines. It was a great experience with wonderful consumer engagement,” he reported.
Other consumer engagement experiences have included Treasury wines poured at New York Fashion Week, The Daily Front Row events in LA and the Hamptons, Beach Life and the Santa Barbara Film Festival.
Another way they engage with consumers is through philanthropy, especially with their Frank Family brand. “Frank Family has a long tradition of giving back to different charitable causes, and so we want to continue that. It is a great way to show our gratitude and responsibility.”
Portfolio of Wine Brands Offered by Treasury Americas
Major players in the wine industry recognize the importance of maintaining robust relationships with distributors, particularly in the U.S. where the predominant method of selling wine involves the 3-tier system. This system facilitates distributors in promoting and distributing wines to a variety of vendors including grocery stores, restaurants, and wine shops.
“Building strong, enduring connections with our distributors is vital,” noted Dollard.
The strategy involves a collaborative method where the unique competencies of each party are optimized. Treasury, similar to other companies within the sector, collaborates with numerous distributors to expand their market reach across numerous U.S. states and over 70 countries globally.
Considering that Treasury Wine Estates is based in Australia, a nation recognized for its rainwater harvesting expertise since the 1800s, their forward-thinking stance on water conservation and management across their vineyards and production facilities is notable. Their environmental initiatives extend beyond water management.
“Sustainability is part of our DNA. Every day that we wake up we have a responsibility in how we think about the footprint of our wineries. We are always concerned with water management, but also the use of solar, the equipment that is used in the vineyard, and energy conservation,” explained Dollard.
Since Treasury owns 11,300 hectares (27, 933 acres) of vineyards around the world, and is one of the largest landholders in Napa Valley, this type of focus on sustainability is important in the communities in which they operate.
Dollard said that they are also concerned with social responsibility, and have active “community engagement in Napa Valley.” The company currently employees 2,500 team members, and has several programs to promote DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion).
When asked if Treasury has anymore winery acquisitions in mind for the future, Dollard replied: “We are always open to considering opportunities, as long as the winery has amazing and authentic stories to tell.”
In the future, Treasury Wine Estates is committed to prioritizing their luxury and ultra-premium brands while still fostering the growth and innovation of their ‘Bold Brands’.
“Our goal is to remain engaged with our consumers by sharing our brands, telling our stories, offering experiences, and strengthening our distribution and retail partnerships. We also aim to anticipate the preferences of new generations and illustrate how wine can play a vital role in a joyful lifestyle,” stated Dollard.
Penfolds Winery in Australia – A significant part of the Treasury Wine Estates Portfolio
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Revealed: The Top Bourbon of 2024 According to IWSC American Whiskey Judging
Four American whiskeys captured Gold Outstanding medals, while 23 others achieved Gold medals at the recent IWSC North American whiskey competition.
At a special event in Kentucky during the week of September 9th, 300 whiskey varieties were awarded medals at the International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC). This marked the first IWSC whiskey judging ever held in North America. Notably, all winners of the Gold Outstanding medals earned remarkable scores of 98 out of 100.
Among these top performers, the standout was the Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company’s Toasted Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, No-Age Statement, with a 55.5% ABV in a 750 ml bottle, which uniquely clinched a Gold Outstanding medal.
The official IWSC Judging Panel described the whisky as “outstanding,” noting that it:
… opens with captivating aromas of rich oak integrated with vibrant orchard fruit and warm cinnamon. The palate reveals layers of caramel, delicate nuttiness, and a hint of pepper, all enveloped in a creamy embrace. A wonderfully extended finish with complex notes of both grain and barrel.
These results supplement an earlier judging of American whiskies in June in the United Kingdom.
The top American rye whisky was Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, Bulleit Rye 10 YO American Straight Rye Whiskey, 45.6% ABV, 750 ml.
The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey with these notes:
… rich caramel and warm leather, intertwined with hints of green tea and lively cinnamon spice. The texture is velvety, unfolding layers of dark cherry and blackcurrant, concluding with a vibrant chocolate-orange finish and a charming rye spice.
The highest-rated blended whisky was Coors Spirits Co., Five Trail Barrel Proof Batch 003 Blended American Whiskey, 58.1% ABV, 750 ml. Coors Spirits, part of the larger beer conglomerate based in Colorado, has consistently garnered accolades at various international spirits competitions.
The IWSC Judging Panel provided the following description for the whisky:
Big enticing aromas of malted cereal, sweet creamy milk chocolate and crisp red berries. The deliciously silky palate drips with the flavors of candied spiced nuts. A gorgeous mouthfeel that boasts a satisfyingly velvety finish.
The top American Single Malt was Virginia Distilling Company, Cabernet Cask Select American Single Malt Whiskey, 46.5% ABV, 750 ml.
The IWSC Judging Panel described the whisky as:
Solid, well-crafted, and well balanced. The nose reveals a captivating medley of savoury herbs and subtle vegetal notes, inviting exploration. On the palate, vibrant red grape and raisin harmonize beautifully, culminating in a smooth, well-integrated finish that lingers delightfully.
Fourteen bourbon expressions achieved Gold medals. These winners included a blend of well-known established brands and emerging craft distillers, plus some unexpected winners. The bourbons that earned Gold medals were:
Ammunition Wine & Whiskey, Ammunition Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Garrard County Distilling Company, All Nations Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company, One Cask Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Heaven Hill Distillery, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Nelson’s Green Briar Distillery, Reserve Bourbon; 15 Stars, Triple Cask II Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; and Luxco – Ross & Squibb Distillery, Remus Gatsby Reserve 15 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey;
Elgin Distillery, Arizona Straight Bourbon [Rye 24%], stood out as one of the rare winners not from Kentucky or Tennessee, similar to TX Whiskey, TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Additional Gold medals were awarded to Peg Leg Porker Spirits, Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey White Label; Blue Run Spirits, Blue Run Reflection II Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Blanton Distilling Company, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; O. H. Ingram River Aged Whiskey, 2024 Flagship Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; World Whisky Society, Doc Holiday; and Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., High Rye Bourbon Kentucky Straight Whiskey.
Visit the IWSC website for a full list of all the award winners.
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Martin Brodeur Teams Up with Dirty Devil Vodka as New Brand Ambassador
And Celebrates Third Best Vodka Rank and “Best Buy” Award from Beverage Testing Institute
MORIN-HEIGHTS, QC, Sept. 17, 2024 /CNW/ – Dirty Devil Vodka®, the audacious and fast-growing Canadian premium brand known for its “Smooth as Hell” character and innovative production techniques, continues to make waves in the spirits industry with a series of remarkable achievements.
Dirty Devil Vodka is proud to announce the signing of legendary hockey goaltender Martin Brodeur as their Brand Ambassador. Martin Brodeur holds the record as the NHL’s all-time winningest goalie, with 3 Stanley Cups to his name and a well-earned spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame.
“We are thrilled to be associated with the greatest goaltender of all time, Martin Brodeur,” said François Tremblay, President and Founder of Dirty Devil Vodka. “His achievements on the ice may never be surpassed, and we look forward to partnering with Martin to further build consumer awareness of Dirty Devil Vodka in major hockey markets.”
In 2024, Dirty Devil Vodka was awarded the third-highest ranking and a prestigious “Best Buy” Award from the US-based Beverage Testing Institute, excelling past numerous rivals. These honors emphasize Dirty Devil Vodka’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and value.
Additionally, 2024 marked another remarkable year for Dirty Devil Vodka as it served as the Official Vodka for both the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and the ATP National Bank Open hosted by Rogers in Toronto and Montreal. The event experienced a surge in demand, with visitors frequently requesting the brand’s signature Dirty Devil Dragon Fruit Lemonade.
The brand’s presence continues to grow throughout North America, now reaching markets in Quebec, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, the northeastern United States, North Carolina, Florida, and more than 75 hotels and resorts in Mexico.
Recently, one of Dirty Devil Vodka’s most exciting introductions occurred in Nevada, beginning in Las Vegas, the world’s entertainment hub, where it swiftly became popular among selective patrons.
“We’re excited about the opportunities that lie ahead,” said Tremblay. “From our partnerships with leading sports organizations and luminaries to our growing international footprint, Dirty Devil Vodka is poised for even greater success as we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what a vodka brand can achieve.”
About Dirty Devil Vodka
Dirty Devil Vodka is a Canadian premium vodka brand renowned for its Smooth as Hell taste, innovative oxygen-rich production process, and edgy branding. Distilled five times and filtered three times, Dirty Devil Vodka (42% ABV) is crafted from non-GMO corn, is gluten-free and additive-free, contains zero carbs, and boasts only 66.6 calories per serving (1 fl. oz.). Dirty Devil Vodka is available in leading retail and on-premise locations across North America and Mexico. Enjoy responsibly.
SOURCE Dirty Devil Vodka
View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2024/17/c6585.html
Suspect Flees Anoka Police, Rescued from Rum River After Chase
ANOKA, Minn. (FOX 9) – A man who fled from Anoka police during a traffic stop on Monday had to be saved from the Rum River, according to the sheriff’s department.
The chase started around 3:49 p.m. when an officer tried to pull over a vehicle on Saint Francis Blvd close to the Anoka County Fairgrounds. The driver subsequently crashed his car and fled on foot.
Eventually, the individual found himself in the Rum River, located not far from the fairgrounds.
Rescue teams located him in the river’s water and extracted him. They performed revival techniques before he was transported to the hospital.
Details remain uncertain regarding why police tried to intercept a man and the reasons for his flight from law enforcement. The investigation is active, and deputies are withholding additional information at this time.
The current health status of the man is also undisclosed.
Saline Oktoberfest 2023: Wiener Dog Races and German Beer Take Center Stage
Saline Main Street’s Oktoberfest is bringing back its Wiener Dog races this year.
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Europe’s Strategy to Combat Declining Wine Sales: A Detailed Plan of Action
17-Sep-2024
– Last updated on
17-Sep-2024 at 09:38 GMT
Grape and wine producers confront significant obstacles due to increased production costs, and labor shortages are intensifying these challenges.
The impact of climate change compounds these issues, with elevated temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events disrupting the timing of harvests, the quantity of crops, and the quality of grapes. Such alterations make agricultural planning highly difficult, and in some cases, lead to devastating losses. Notably, global wine production in 2023 fell by 9.6% due to severe climatic conditions(source).
France, Italy, and Spain, the leading global wine producers, collectively account for nearly half of the world’s wine output. The production figures for 2023 highlight the varying impacts of these challenges. France saw a production increase of 4.4%, whereas Italy and Spain experienced significant declines in production, 23% and 22% respectively(source).
And wine is in a long-term structural decline. The category has always relied on older drinkers, and has done little to attract younger drinkers who are much more interested in trending categories such as RTD alcohol and craft beer.
And, in general, alcohol is increasingly under fire as trends shift towards health and wellness – leading to what CEEV calls the ‘demonization of wine’ in health policy. The result is that supply and demand simply don’t match up.
The decline in consumption – along with disruption of trade exchanges from geopolitical disputes and trade conflicts – has created uncertainty in the world wine trade: a big issue for an industry that enjoyed €17.9bn worth of exports in 2022-2023.
This month, the European Committee of Wine Companies (CEEV) participated in a high-level meeting on the future of wine policy with the European Commission: setting out its vision to tackle the challenges facing the wine sector and its key proposed solutions for long-term sustainability.
The effectiveness of solutions for challenges in the wine industry depends on the operations and regulations of wine markets. The approach is dual-pronged: enhancing the competitiveness and adaptability of wine businesses to market demands, and bolstering their resilience against climate related challenges through mitigation and adaptation strategies.
“The EU wine sector faces both long-standing and immediate challenges,” said Mauricio González-Gordon, President of CEEV. “This meeting was critical for strategically discussing the future of EU wine policy. We appreciate the Commission’s efforts in initiating this. The future of the EU wine industry depends on operators who are dedicated to sustainable and continued growth, and it’s important that EU policies support and prioritize these operators.”
There are complex issues in the industry. One significant issue is finding the balance between preserving traditional wine making practices and innovating to meet the needs of newer generations.
One solution might be to enhance the flexibility of geographical indications, which are usually very restrictive, to allow for easier adaptation to climate changes.
Or it might involve revising the production and labeling standards to effectively include dealcoholized, partially de-alcoholized wines, and aromatized wine products, thereby aiding the expansion of no and low alcohol wine options.
There’s another complex issue – perhaps even more challenging to address – which is to discern the role of wine in a society where negativity towards alcohol is growing. The CEEV suggests that addressing this involves distinguishing the harmful effects of alcohol abuse from the moderate consumption of wine.
Yet, the primary focus of the CEEV’s varied policy objectives is to reduce the bureaucracy that vineyards, wineries, and others in the supply chain deal with. Notably, 99% of wine producers in the EU are small or medium-sized enterprises, which are more susceptible to being burdened or confused by diverse and evolving regulations.
Access the CEEV’s policy documents here.
To secure the future of EU wine companies, CEEV proposed a range of policy priorities.
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