All articles by Richard Woodard
Unaged Spirits Commentator
Richard Woodard
M&A one-two puts International Beverage in spotlight
Just Drinks talks to International Beverage MD Malcolm Leask about the rationale behind the distiller’s recent pair of acquisitions.
Campari has plenty to ponder as M&A talk returns
A change in Campari Group’s voting structure has sparked fresh chatter about the spirits major’s possible M&A options.
Praise Pernod for perfectly-pitched The Glenlivet Twist & Mix
The Glenlivet’s Twist & Mix cocktails tap into consumer trends while exploring the changing role of single malt in the marketplace.
Why the US is the more precarious of Cognac’s big two markets
There is cautious optimism about recovery in China but Cognac producers should be worried about the long-term outlook for the US.
Stock Spirits swoops amid questions about premiumisation
The distiller’s pair of deals in European spirits come against a backdrop of pressure on consumer spending.
Scotch needs aspiration but ‘luxury’ prices aren’t the only answer
A cooling of prices at the luxury end of the Scotch whisky market should make distillers consider how they meet market their brands.
How Diageo flourished under Sir Ivan Menezes
Stripping away the emotional impact of Menezes’ death, any fair assessment of his time at the top of Diageo would have to characterise his tenure as successful.
How Scotch has influenced Nordic whisky – but only up to a point
Nordic distillers are open about how they took their inspiration from across the North Sea but their whiskies are very much their own.
India’s expanding palate offers antidote to complex spirits market
India’s spirits market remains a complex place to do business but, as incomes expand, tastes are becoming more varied, writes Richard Woodard.
Skrewball’s unusual back story offers cheer – but can Pernod Ricard drive brand further?
There’s comfort in knowing success in US doesn’t have to conform to a fixed formula. But will Skrewball thrive elsewhere?