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Happy Monday! We hope you have a great week. In this week’s DECORKED digest, you will read all about winemaking in Bhutan, new trends in Bordeaux, the fight against the ‘anti-wine’ narrative, current American wine trends, the transformation of Georgian wines, and much more. Keep reading!

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🍷 Napa’s new Costco may have the nation’s best wine section, thanks to this employee READ HERE

🗺️ The Argentinian wine industry is facing its "worst period in the last 20 years" READ HERE 

📉 Wine sales are falling; is it a momentary blip or a structural problem? READ HERE

🇮🇳 Is climate change crushing India’s growing wine industry? READ HERE

💥 How the proposed US tariffs could affect wine sales READ HERE

🥂 White wines to enjoy as the seasons change READ HERE

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SHIPMENTS TO CHINA LIFT AUSTRALIAN WINE EXPORTS TO THREE-YEAR HIGH

Australian wine exports surged by 34% in value to AU$2.39 billion and 7% in volume to 643 million liters in the year to September 2024, mainly due to renewed access to China after import duties were lifted. Exports to China rose significantly, but Wine Australia’s Peter Bailey noted that these initial shipments likely reflect restocking rather than direct retail demand. Outside China, export value held steady, though volumes dropped due to declines in the US and Europe. Red wine, especially Shiraz, drove strong growth in exports, with the total red wine value being up 52%.

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BHUTAN’S PATH INTO FINE WINE

Bhutan’s release of its first wines by the Bhutan Wine Company marks a historic milestone, positioning the Himalayan nation on the global wine map. This venture, driven by Bhutan’s principles of Gross National Happiness and sustainability, challenges traditional wine industry norms and embraces a unique high-altitude terroir that spans diverse microclimates. Founded in partnership with American entrepreneurs Michael Juergens and Ann Cross, the initiative reflects Bhutan’s commitment to environmental stewardship, from maintaining 71% forest cover to organic farming. Despite challenges like training a novice workforce and dealing with wildlife, Bhutan’s wines embody its cultural identity and offer a climate-resilient model for viticulture, enriching the world of wine with fresh perspectives and a distinct narrative rooted in both innovation and tradition.

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THE BORDEAUX WINEMAKERS CHANGING ATTITUDES ABOUT NON-ALCOHOLIC WINE

A Bordeaux vineyard made waves by releasing an alcohol-free wine, challenging long-standing regional traditions in response to changing consumer habits and increasing demand for inclusive, alcohol-free options. Despite initial resistance from traditionalists, the alcohol-free wine found success, selling 80,000 bottles in its first year. Bordeaux, facing declining wine sales and shifting drinking preferences, is now exploring de-alcoholized wine as a potential way to revitalize the industry. With new production facilities and rising interest, the region’s approach to wine is gradually evolving to embrace diverse consumer preferences.

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WHAT WINES ARE AMERICANS THIRSTY FOR NOW?

The US wine market shows contrasting trends: budget-friendly Prosecco and high-end red Burgundy are popular, while on-premise sales see moderate growth as people return to restaurants. Direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales volumes dropped, though higher bottle prices offset this. Sauvignon Blanc is the only top varietal with sales growth, while mid-tier wines are struggling. Champagne demand is declining, but Prosecco and Cava are thriving. French wine imports, especially red Burgundy and Bordeaux, are rising despite economic uncertainty.

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THE MODERNISING OF GEORGIAN WINE

Georgian wine is undergoing a rapid transformation, blending traditional qvevri methods with modern styles to appeal to international markets. Over the past 20 years, the industry has diversified significantly, focusing on quality and a broader range of grape varieties to attract global audiences. Younger winemakers are innovating while honoring heritage, adapting techniques for greater commercial appeal. Although Georgia remains closely tied to Russia as its primary market, exports to Western countries, including the UK, are growing, positioning Georgia to become a key player in global wine production by merging ancient practices with contemporary tastes.

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FRANCIACORTA IS THE ”INTERNATIONAL WINE REGION OF THE YEAR 2024”

Franciacorta has been named International Wine Region of the Year 2024 by Wine Enthusiast, marking it as a global leader in high-quality sparkling wines. This award highlights Franciacorta's rapid rise as a reference in Italy and internationally, driven by dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation. The Franciacorta Consortium is proud of the region's achievements and continues to expand its presence in key markets, supported by partnerships with prestigious events like the Emmy Awards and Michelin Guide. The award will be celebrated in January 2025, solidifying Franciacorta’s reputation as an ambassador of Italian excellence in the wine world.

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WHY IT’S TIME TO START DEFENDING WINE

Frustrated by media and health organizations pushing an "anti-alcohol" narrative, Dr. Laura Catena has launched a website, In Defence of Wine, to present credible research showing the potential health benefits of moderate wine consumption, particularly for cardiovascular health in people over 40. Catena argues that recent media coverage often ignores or misrepresents studies supporting moderate drinking’s benefits, comparing it unfairly to smoking. She contends that excess consumption carries risks, but responsible drinking can be "health-neutral and pleasure-positive," and individuals in a democratic society should make informed choices. Her campaign advocates for a balanced view based on scientific evidence rather than ideology.

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WINE REGION OF THE WEEK: TIKVEŠ, NORTH MACEDONIA

The Tikveš wine district in Macedonia, with a winemaking heritage dating back to Roman times and prominence during the Ottoman era, is now one of the country’s premier wine destinations. Located in the scenic Balkan hills, Tikveš produces unique wines from local and international grape varieties like Vranec, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, celebrated for their quality and distinctive character.

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GRAPE OF THE WEEK: VRANAC/VRANEC

Vranac is a black-skinned grape variety native to Montenegro, producing deep red wines with flavors of sour cherry, blackberry, chocolate, and hints of mint and vanilla. It’s the most significant grape in Montenegro, covering over half of its vineyards, and is also grown in North Macedonia and Croatia. Known for its high tannins, acidity, and robust character, Vranac is well-suited to oak aging, which enhances its spice notes, and it often improves with age. Closely related to Primitivo, Vranac thrives in the dry, challenging climates of the Balkans.

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