Swedish schnapps brand, Flävar, recently reached 100k bottles sold since launching in the UK on-trade in May 2022. Drinks International caught up with Rolf Munding, owner of Market Taverns Group, whose latest venture, Flävar, plans to grow its European presence this year.

The Wines of South Africa 2022 export report has revealed that export value has only seen a 2.4% decline following the pandemic with Rand Per Litre (RPL) income showing marginal growth as producers navigate rising costs, shipping challenges and shortages in the supply of packaging goods.

The Drinks Trust has appointed Guy Lawrence, CEO of Brockman’s Gin, as the new chair of the charity following Troy Christensen’s two-year tenure.

Japanese whisky brand Nikka is releasing two new expressions in the UK, exclusively distributed by drinks agency Speciality Brands, as part of its Discovery Series.

UK cider maker, Westons Cider, has announced details of a £2 million investment to enhance its fruit pressing capacity.

UK-based rum brand Two Drifters has announced its partnership with British Airways, where its Signature Rum is available to pre-purchase on all short and long-haul flights through the High Life Shop.

Curious Brewery has reached an agreement to add Wild Beer Co to its portfolio, an acquisition that will double the size of the existing Curious operation.

The UKGB and Molinari have announced a joint partnership to build awareness and relationships within the UK hospitality industry.

The UK government has outlined plans to extend licensing hours in pubs, clubs and bars across England and Wales to mark the royal coronation.

The UK government’s freeze on alcohol duty is to be extended until August 2023 to help UK hospitality venues amid rising costs.

The no- and low-alcohol categories grew by more than 7% in volume across 10 key global markets in 2022 to surpass a market value of $11bn, a new report from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis has revealed.

This January, Everleaf non-alcoholic aperitif will be partnering with bars across the UK for its ‘Try January’ initiative, offering a complimentary cocktail to consumers.

Swedish schnapps brand Flävar reaches 100k bottles sold since launching in the UK on-trade in May this year, with plans to grow its European presence in 2023.

Toku Saké, a new super premium saké, has announced the release of Junmai Daiginjo, its debut liquid. 

The Macallan has introduced a new single malt whisky into The Red Collection, The Macallan 77 Years Old.

Tonic and mixer brand, Lixir, has announced its certification as a B Corporation, the first of its category in the UK to reach this status. 

This month, Buffalo Trace Distillery will launch The Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Trolley, in partnership with JW Marriott Grosvenor House London.

Spanish-lager 1906 Black Coupage by Hijos de Rivera brewery has been crowned Supreme Champion at the International Beer Challenge 2022 as well as winning the award for Best Lager above 5%.

Diageo is celebrating the graduation of 14 students, including seven Ukrainian refugees, from its Learning for Life hospitality training programme.

White Peak Distillery, from Derbyshire, UK, has revealed a special whisky release in time for the festive period, Wire Works Whisky Virgin Oak Finish.

Dolce-amaro aperitivo, Amaro Santoni, has announced it will be partnering with British distributor The Liana Collection this year, as they continue their expansion within the UK. 

The global mezcal market is expected to reach $2.1 billion by 2031, new data by Straits Research has revealed.

A group of over 100 UK drink industry figures have signed a letter written to The Times urging the chancellor to rethink its decision to reverse the alcohol duty freeze.

Diageo Reserve’s World Class bartender competition, now in its 14^th year, has opened for entries in the UK.