James Bayley

Return point operators across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland have been given greater clarity on the financial framework underpinning the Deposit Return Scheme ahead of its October 2027 launch.

The Dutch Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by Heineken and its Greek subsidiary Athenian Brewery in a long-running damages dispute linked to competition law breaches in Greece.

From royal visits in Portugal and global photography awards in London to anniversary tastings and international entrepreneurship honours, this week brought together wine, culture and celebration across the drinks world.

The Old Vine Conference has revealed the shortlist for its inaugural Old Vine Photography Competition, with 21 images selected from entries submitted around the world.

The member-owned merchant has reported an operating loss for its latest financial year, having absorbed much of the cost of the 2024 budget rather than passing it on to members. At a dinner at Noble Rot Mayfair on 3 June, its chief executive Steve Finlan and director of wine Pierre Mansour set out a plan built on cash reserves, a widening range, fine wine and a newly launched AI recommendation tool.

The freehold of one of Peckham's best-known pubs has been brought to market with a guide price of more than £1.2 million, offering investors exposure to London's hospitality sector via a long-term lease. The sale comes at a time when pub operators continue to face mounting financial pressures, despite strong demand in parts of the capital.

the drinks business is inviting wine professionals to help shape the agenda for its 2026 conference through a short industry survey. Three respondents will receive complimentary tickets to the event, while all participants will qualify for a discount on admission.

Champagne Bollinger has appointed award-winning winemaker Émilien Boutillat as its new cellar master, with the current Piper-Heidsieck chief winemaker set to join the house in October.

Researchers have finally deciphered a mathematical puzzle scribbled in the notes of former Manhattan Project physicist Richard Feynman more than half a century ago. The solution reveals how diners should decide when to stop trying new restaurants and commit to a favourite.

This week’s gatherings ranged from the unveiling of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2018 in Bilbao and a major appointment at Bollinger to the launch of the Old Vine Conference’s inaugural photography competition. Across Champagne, London and Spain, producers, sommeliers and photographers celebrated heritage and the future of fine wine.