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đŸ„‚ What’s The Most Overrated White Wine?

In this week’s DECORKED digest, you will read all about overrated white wines, Māori winemakers, TikTok alcohol advertising, the “Come Over October” campaign, the decline in US wine sales, and much more. Keep reading!

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Happy Monday! We hope you have a great week. In this week’s DECORKED digest, you will read all about overrated white wines, Māori winemakers, TikTok alcohol advertising, the “Come Over October” campaign, the decline in US wine sales, and much more. Keep reading!

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Read the most important and interesting news this week.

📉 Grape growers in Australia's largest wine region are frozen out of financial help READ HERE

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WHAT’S THE MOST OVERRATED WHITE WINE?

White wines are often celebrated for their refreshing, approachable qualities, but some varieties can fall short of expectations. Wine professionals critique over-oaked whites, particularly California Chardonnay, for masking the grape's true character. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, while popular, is sometimes considered lacking in depth, and Sancerre is often overpriced compared to more expressive alternatives. Pinot Gris, low-calorie wines, and Macabeo-based wines also tend to underwhelm. Despite their broad appeal, experts encourage wine lovers to explore more distinctive options like GrĂŒner Veltliner, bone-dry Riesling, or Chablis for a more refined and memorable experience.

FOR MĀORI WINEMAKERS, IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN JUST NATURAL WINE

Māori winemakers in Aotearoa New Zealand are reclaiming their heritage through sustainable, natural winemaking rooted in ancestral practices that predate European biodynamics. They emphasize land stewardship (kaitiakitanga) and a deep connection to the place (tƫrangawaewae). Despite historical exclusion from the wine industry, Māori winemakers are now decolonizing viticulture and integrating cultural values, reflecting a wider revival of te reo Māori and traditional practices. Winemakers like Jannine Rickards of Huntress Wines are reconnecting with their Māori identity through their craft, blending heritage with modern winemaking.

HOW TO START ADVERTISING YOUR ALCOHOL BRAND ON TIKTOK

In July 2024, TikTok began beta-testing alcohol advertisements, opening a new opportunity for brands to reach a wider audience, especially as its user base diversifies. With 1.6 billion users globally, including 170 million Americans, TikTok’s unique algorithm helps brands gain visibility. Alcohol brands must follow specific guidelines, including an approval process and responsible drinking disclaimers, to advertise. Experts recommend creating authentic, engaging content, such as behind-the-scenes clips or educational videos, and capturing attention quickly to succeed on the platform.

CONTROLLING THE ADDITION OF OXYGEN TO WINE

Micro-oxygenation (MOX), developed by Patrick Ducournau and Thierry Lemaire in the early 1990s, enhances the development of tannin-rich wines by introducing controlled amounts of oxygen. The process is used to improve wine structure, mouthfeel, and color stabilization by facilitating condensation reactions between anthocyanins and phenolic compounds. MOX shortens the maturation time, allowing wines to be released earlier but also reducing their longevity. There are three main types of MOX equipment—ranging from manual to fully automated systems—that control oxygen delivery, making careful monitoring essential to avoid over-oxygenation, which can negatively affect a wine's flavor and structure.

THE DECLINE OF SALES IN THE US CONTINUES

According to WSWA’s latest SipSource report, wholesaler sales to over 450,000 US retailers dropped by 6% in the 12 months through August 2024, with wine stocking down 8% and spirits down 3.9%. This decline contrasts earlier optimism driven by destocking and seasonal patterns. Table wine in the $8-$10.99 range saw the sharpest drop, down 12.7%. Consumer behavior shifts, economic pressures, and competition from alternative beverages like THC-infused drinks and RTDs are contributing factors. However, Prosecco and fine wines over $50 showed modest growth, offering some hope. Still, premiumization is under pressure, with the biggest decline seen in spirits priced over $100, which fell by 12.5%.

‘COME OVER OCTOBER’ CAMPAIGN FIGHTS ANTI-WINE NARRATIVE

The "Come Over October" campaign, founded by US wine journalists Karen MacNeil, Gino Colangelo, and Kimberly Charles, aims to counter negative media coverage of alcohol consumption by encouraging people to gather and connect over a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage during October. The initiative promotes moderation, sociability, and the positive aspects of wine culture while addressing concerns over changing alcohol consumption guidelines, such as those proposed by the WHO and Canada. The campaign has garnered widespread support from major wine brands and international wine organizations, with plans for it to become an annual event that celebrates connection and responsible enjoyment.

GROWING INTEREST IN WINES FROM OLD VINES

Italy's ancient vineyards, some over 200 years old, are invaluable for their historical, cultural, and genetic significance. Experts like Attilio Scienza emphasize the resilience and genetic diversity of these old vines, which have survived diseases and climate changes. Wineries, such as those led by Marco Simonit and major names like Marchesi Antinori, are preserving and studying these vines to enhance future viticulture. The "Old Vine Conference" aims to safeguard this heritage, recognizing the unique qualities of old vines that offer low yields but exceptional complexity and terroir expression in wines.

What's The Most Overrated White Wine?

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WINE REGION OF THE WEEK: EGER, HUNGARY

Eger, in northeastern Hungary, is renowned for its Egri Bikavér, or "Bull's Blood," Hungary's most famous red wine. First made in the late 19th century, this complex blend of dark-skinned grapes, primarily Kadarka and Kekfrankos, gained international fame in the 1970s. Hungarian wine laws require multiple grape varieties in Bikavér, with no single variety exceeding 50% of the blend. Known for its deep color, soft tannins, and spicy, plummy aromas, Bikavér is a robust and iconic Hungarian wine.

Copyright @ WorldsBestWines.eu

GRAPE OF THE WEEK: KADARKA

Kadarka, Hungary's best-known red grape, is closely associated with the country's famous Egri Bikavér (Bull's Blood), a wine that helped establish Hungary's international wine presence. Known by various names across Eastern Europe, such as "Cadarca" in Romania and Serbia, and "Gamza" in Bulgaria, Kadarka's cultivation has declined due to its susceptibility to grey rot and the fading popularity of Bull's Blood. However, when carefully managed with low yields, Kadarka can produce dark, tannic, and weighty wines of high quality.

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