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4 March, 2026

Louis Roederer crowned World’s Most Admired Champagne Brand 2026

Louis Roederer has retained its title as The World’s Most Admired Champagne brand for 2026, making it seven consecutive years at the top.

US beverage and wellness company Tilray Brands has acquired Brewdog’s brand, UK brewing operations and 11 pubs for £33m.

Henkell Freixenet has become the sole shareholder of Freixenet SA, as the Ferrer Family and José Luis Bonet have sold their remaining shares in Freixenet for an undisclosed sum.

Amrut Distilleries has appointed Ashok Chokalingam as chief operating officer and master distiller.

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Drinks giant Diageo reported a 2.8% drop in organic sales in the first half of its 2026 fiscal year due to weak demand in North America and China.

Suntory Global Spirits will combine its operational teams at Islay whisky distilleries Bowmore and Laphroaig to a single team as part of long-term production planning.

50 Best, the organisation behind The World’s 50 Best Bars, has revealed the date and location for the inaugural edition of Europe’s 50 Best Bars. 

Alcohol duty in the UK fell year-on-year by £285 million according to statistics released by HM Revenue and Customs.

Hendrick’s Gin has announced the release of Another Hendrick’s, the first new permanent addition to its line up in nine years.

French spirits group Pernod Ricard has reported a disappointing slide in sales during the first half of fiscal 2026, driven by continuing struggles in the US and China.

Tejo Wines has announced the recognition of the region’s fourth terroir, Serras, following a regional soil study completed in 2025. 

Freixenet sparkling wine has entered the spirits category with the launch of a new aperitif.

Registration has officially opened for Hennessy MyWay, a global cocktail challenge that celebrates bartending with a conscience.

Brewdog has announced the appointment of AlixPartners to restructure the company for sale following more than a £35m loss in 2025 and totalling -£148m since 2019.

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Sandy Hyslop

The vision behind Crystalgold

In late 2025, Drinks International editor Shay Waterworth questioned the launch of Chivas Regal Crystalgold.

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