News

Sandy Hyslop retires as Chivas Brothers master blender

Chivas Brothers, the Scotch whisky arm of Pernod Ricard, has named Kevin Balmforth as its new master blender, succeeding Sandy Hyslop.  


Diageo opens £73m Guinness site in London

Diageo has announced the opening of Guinness Open Gate Brewery, a new £73m visitor experience and working microbrewery in London’s Covent Garden.


Chimera Brand Development expands portfolio

UK-based distribution and brand-building company, Chimera Brand Development, has announced the addition of three brands to its portfolio.


AB InBev acquires majority stake in BeatBox for $490m

Brewing giant Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev) has announced plans to acquire an 85% stake in ready-to-drink brand BeatBox, for approximately $490m. 


Madrí Excepcional hits £1bn in annual sales as brand turns five

Madrí Excepcional has announced that it has surpassed £1 billion in annual sales, five years after launching.


James Gin scales global presence

James Gin, the gin brand created by James May, has announced its international expansion, partnering with global spirits consultancy Russell & Stellar to lead its growth beyond the UK and US.


50 Best Bars launches European ranking

50 Best has announced the launch of Europe’s 50 Best Bars, Drinks International can exclusively reveal.


Early Loire harvest shows promise

The Loire Valley harvest for 2025 has been described as “promising” despite a series of heatwaves and heavy rainfall.


Comment
The way in which cocktail culture is championed has morphed over the years, but Danil Nevsky says the way forward is to put an emphasis on greater inclusion of the general public in bar shows
Analysis
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Is the Spritz giving new life to limoncello?
How rum can build strength through independence
Elizabeth McCall: Woodford's fresh face
Bar News
The Dead Rabbit expands with second Irish Exit bar
Jigger & Pony Group launches Pop City x Pony
The Bon Vivant in Edinburgh closes
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More News

The Drinks Trust named charity partner for 2026 Drinks Trade Regatta

The Drinks Trade Regatta, the annual sailing event for the hospitality trade, has announced a new partnership with The Drinks Trust and Only A Pavement Away for 2026.


UK alcohol duty to rise with inflation

UK chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced that alcohol duty will increase in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI) from 1 February 2026, a decision that has been met with anger within the drinks and hospitality sectors. 


WSET appoints new chair of the Board of Trustees

The WSET has appointed Tamara Roberts as chair of its Board of Trustees, taking over from Simon McMurtrie, who has chaired the board since December 2020.


Varma Spirits & Wines expands into Italy

Spain-based Varma Spirits & Wines has announced its first international distribution agreement for its Macaronesian Gin, which has launched in Italy through the OnestiGroup.


Eden Mill Distillery acquired from administration

St Andrews-based Eden Mill Distillery has been acquired from administration by a private equity firm, saving the jobs of its 42 staff members.


Slingsby Gin founder backs Hacien Tequila

Mike Carthy, founder and owner of Slingsby Gin, has invested in Hacien tequila for an undisclosed sum.



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