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They are some of France’s most beautiful villages. The vibrant array of vineyard sites and styles within the generic appellation Côtes-du-Rhône form a constellation of 22 designations all named after them. But this unique feature is not their only attraction – they also show stellar quality and great appeal. Join us on a guided tour.

Although home to propitious sites for growing wine, Spain’s main defining feature is its extensive range of native grape varieties. Whether used in blends or as single varietals, they reveal a unique character and substantiate a wine’s origin. International grape varieties like Merlot, Syrah and the Cabernets are admittedly widespread across the country, but indigenous grapes are now riding the crest of popularity.

When it comes to studying market patterns and tastes, Wine of Moldova is a past master and uses the research to craft wines that follow a true strategy. This explains why the producers featured in this report say they export 95% of their wines. Moldova is also increasingly focusing on terroir: the ONVV and Wine of Moldova are planning to expand existing PGIs by adding new designations. Few competitors in the Eastern European space have this ability to adapt to each market they aim to conquer.

On October 30, the new Labour government delivered a double blow to the British drinks industry by announcing it would be raising alcohol duty in line with retail price inflation, and going ahead with the previous government’s new tax regime by ending the wine easement on February 1, 2025.

Some people constantly compare Umbria to Tuscany as both of them are punctuated with hills dotted with cypress trees. Certainly, in terms of landscapes, there are some similarities. But from a wine perspective, there are countless differences and this province in the centre of Italy is far from being a poor second to its prestigious neighbour. And that’s exactly what you’re about to see!