All articles by Richard Woodard
Unaged Spirits Commentator
Richard Woodard
2023 outlook – prospects for unaged spirits remain positive
It’s not just in Tequila where the underlying trends look solid, argues Just Drinks columnist Richard Woodard.
2023 outlook – aged spirits can steer through testing waters
Producers of aged spirits have displayed resilience in recent years – but how can brand owners ride out what promises to be a tricky 2023?
Diageo’s Archers cast-off offers a bleak glimpse into hard seltzer’s future
Ready-to-drink is a fickle category in which to play, as seltzer makers are finding out the hard way.
How Diageo’s recent M&A highlights the innovation changing whisky
Balcones Distilling in Texas and UK-based The Oxford Artisan Distillery are indicators of where whisky is going.
Why trio of deals could mark significant shift for Pernod Ricard in North America
Pernod has described its bid to outpace its rivals in North America as “turning a big ship” but its recent hat-trick of deals is a significant pull on the tiller.
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Forget recent M&A: Brown-Forman’s shrewdest investment may prove to be in single malt
Brown-Forman’s acquisitions in gin and rum have overshadowed a significant investment in single malt.
Hot summer gives fizz to Champagne but longer-term questions linger
After Covid left Champagne flat, the hot summer has given the region a boost but extreme weather will remain one of the long-term challenges facing growers.
Why Gin Mare may revive Brown-Forman’s fortunes in white spirits
Gin Mare has built a solid position in high-end gin, while Brown Forman’s distribution muscle may open up new markets.
In pursuit of luxury cachet, Scotch still needs to remember the liquid
The tie-up between The Macallan and car maker Bentley feels like the single malt has been slightly consumed by an automotive brand, Richard Woodard writes.
Why the prudent will prosper as the RTD boom continues
There will be huge opportunities within the diverse RTD category for businesses of all sizes – but wise companies will take a moment to think through their plans.