In order to strengthen sales growth abroad and the positive evolution in the image of German wines, the Deutsches Weininstitut (DWI) has announced that it is modifying its promotional strategy: “wine lovers must know that German wines are among the finest wines in the word and are unique. It’s important that Germany be perceived as a viticultural country where wine is an important cultural asset and an integral part of modern life”. The DWI is going to focus its promotional actions on event-based marketing, and traditional advertising is going to be reduced in favour of press relations and Internet information. (Source: EuroWine)

Wine critic Jancis Robinson has called wine critics “parasitical” and has urged them to be more humble and honest. She said, “We must always remember that we are parasites on the business of winemaking, and we only have one palate.” (Source: Decanter.com)

On our website www.vinexpo.com “My Vinexpo” enables you to select the exhibitors you would like to visit and the events you would like to attend, while keeping all your practical information in one place. After customising it in this way, “My Vinexpo” can be printed to become your personal guide that you use to optimise the time you spend at the exhibition. You can also use it as your diary for the three days. (Source: Vinexpo)

There is no denying that the German wine sector today is doing very well both at home and on export markets. Domestic wine sales grew 2,8% in volume and 3% in value in Germany during the first half of 2007. On foreign markets, German wine sales already reached in the first half of 2007 the 1. 50 million hl mark with a turnover of 305 million euros, in other words a 25% increase over the same period in the preceding year. (Source: EuroWine)

Up to now, no alcohol was permitted on Indian domestic flights. However, under the influence of local Indian producers, including UB Group, the third largest producer of spirits in the world, who also owns Kingfisher Airlines, beverages with low to medium alcohol contents could soon be served on board, as is the case on Air India international flights. Champagne and strong alcoholic drinks are not included in the proposed law and would remain forbidden. (Source: The Statesman)

Vodka made from grain-fine. Vodka made from potatoes-great. But vodka made from grapes? That’s one Argentina-based winery is distilling: a “wine vodka” made from Malbec grapes, the most popular and recognizable varietal grown in the region. (Source: Wine Enthusiast)

French Agriculture Minister, Michel Barnier, concluded a meeting of European wine industry professionals saying, “We must ensure that wine holds on to its rightful role, that is a recognised beverage that is part of a way of eating and drinking specific to our societies. Obviously, we must not weaken in our fight against alcoholism, but in the face of growing arguments that are often exaggerated and border on a kind of witch hunt, we must develop messages that are educational and responsible”. (Source: VSB)