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Articles by Cody Profaca
Lark sales fall for first time in two years despite 8% domestic growth
Lark Distilling Co’s net sales contracted 4.5 per cent in the quarter ended 30 September, marking its first year-on-year decline in two years. The ASX-listed distillery largely attributed the decline to the timing of orders in international markets, with Australian sales growing 8 per cent to $2.9 million.
TWE appoints Kylie Bishop as Chief People Officer after nine-month search
Treasury Wine Estates has appointed Kylie Bishop as Chief People Officer following a nine-month search. A newcomer to the drinks trade, Bishop is an experienced People & Culture leader who has held senior roles across the insurance and financial services sectors. Most recently, she was Medibank’s Group Lead – People, Spaces & Sustainability, having joined the company in 2010 and its executive leadership team in 2013.
Release Radar: BuzzBallz and Moon Dog RTD innovations, & more
BuzzBallz expands Australian range with 187ml arrival BuzzBallz is expanding its Australian range with six new products, including four original 187ml single-serve cocktails and two new Biggies flavours. The original BuzzBallz range will include Berry Cherry Limeade, Lime Tango, Strawberry Fiesta and the Endeavour Group-exclusive Passionfruit Crush. The four products contain 13.5% ABV and 1.9 standard drinks per 187mL serve.
Adam Rigano resigns as Australian Vintage CFO
Australian Vintage has commenced a search for a new chief financial officer ahead of Adam Rigano’s departure at the end of the year. Rigano stepped into the role in March 2022 and has helped steer the business through a period of economic recovery, culminating in its first positive underlying cash flow in four years in financial year 2026. “I am pleased to have helped in turning around Australian Vintage,” Rigano said. “The Company is on a stable sustainable foundation and is in good hands.
Moon Dog launches 36-flavour RTD range in randomly mixed 8-packs
Moon Dog has unveiled a new RTD range featuring 36 flavours, available exclusively in randomly mixed eight-packs. Launching mid-November, Moon Dog Mixed Pack features 36 flavours inspired by Australian desserts, bakery treats and confectionery. Each pack contains eight different flavours, including one mystery can with no flavour listed, encouraging blind tasting. Moon Dog co-founder Josh Uljans said the goal was to bring true innovation into the Australian RTD category.
The Macallan Time : Space Sherry Cask
The Macallan has partnered with sherry producer Valdespino on Time : Space Sherry Cask, an ultra-premium single malt matured for 20 years in sherry casks before being married in casks seasoned with Valdespino sherry. While only a small allocation is expected to reach Australia, the release marks a significant development in The Macallan’s partnership with Valdespino, after The Macallan's owner Edrington acquired a 50 per cent stake in Grupo Estévez, Valdespino’s owner, in March 2023.
BuzzBallz expands Australian range with 187ml arrival
BuzzBallz is expanding its Australian range with six new products, including four original 187ml single-serve cocktails and two new Biggies flavours. The original BuzzBallz range will include Berry Cherry Limeade, Lime Tango, Strawberry Fiesta and the Endeavour Group-exclusive Passionfruit Crush. The four products contain 13.5% ABV and 1.9 standard drinks per 187mL serve.
Absolut Tabasco launches in Australia with Spice Girl headline act
Pernod Ricard has launched Absolut TABASCO into Australia, combining the Swedish vodka with an essence derived from the fermented and aged red pepper mash used in TABASCO Sauce. Available nationwide, the collaboration unites the brands’ distinctive identities, with its packaging combining TABASCO’s signature colours and diamond label with Absolut’s apothecary-inspired bottle design.
Howard Park updates Jeté sparkling range
Howard Park has released the latest disgorgements of its Jeté traditional-method sparkling range comprising four SKUs: Petit Jeté Blanc de Blancs NV, Jeté Rose NV, Jeté Premier Brut NV, Jeté Grand Vintage 2020. Alongside the core range, the Western Australian winery has also released En Pointe Réserve Perpétuelle NV, a limited-edition wine celebrating the family winery’s 40th anniversary.
Interview: 40 years in, Howard Park is reshaping its portfolio for the future wine consumer
Howard Park is firmly established as a leading force in a region arguably flying the flag for Australian wine in global awards more than any other. The Western Australian winery is now in its 40th year, a milestone it is celebrating in a number of ways, including with the release of one-off perpetual reserve sparkling En Pointe. But, for Howard Park, reaching four decades has been marked by a significant shift in direction.
Report: Changing spirits landscape revealed in brand value rankings
José Cuervo, Don Julio and Patrón were the three fastest-growing brands in Brand Finance's 2026 ranking of the world's 50 most valuable spirits brands, experiencing increases of 61 per cent, 57 per cent, and 36 per cent respectively, despite the combined value of the top 50 falling 4 per cent.
WA hospitality industry and government warn visa reform could cost 4,500 workers
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook, AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods AM and Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall have jointly urged the Commonwealth to reconsider Labor's proposed reform of the national migration program. The joint letter warns that the proposed changes to the second- and third-year Working Holiday Maker visa program “could result in a loss of 4,500 tourism and hospitality workers” during peak season in regional Western Australia.
Coopers appoints new WA state manager as keg volumes rise 60%
Coopers Brewery has appointed Jane Stevenson as Western Australian State Manager, making her the brewer’s first female state manager outside South Australia. The experienced Perth-based leader joined Coopers as an On Premise Area Manager in 2018 before progressing to Field Sales Manager. In her new role, Stevenson will lead Coopers’ statewide sales team, focusing on growing its on-premise, off-premise, and event footprint.
Monkey Shoulder rebrands globally to attract next generation of drinkers
William Grant & Sons has unveiled a new bottle design and refreshed brand identity for Monkey Shoulder globally as it seeks to increase the brand's appeal among the next generation of consumers. The redesign builds on the brand’s established identity, including its blend of three Speyside single malts, represented by the Three Monkeys emblem, now positioned on the bottle’s left shoulder.
Canada overtakes US as third-largest market for South Australian wine
South Australian wine exports to Canada have risen by more than $24 million as several provinces continue to keep US wines off retail shelves. New data released by the South Australian Government shows that exports to Canada reached $128 million in the year to August, making it the state’s third-largest wine export market behind China and the UK.
What’s On: Made in the Inner West Festival, & more
The Australian drinks trade has a busy summer ahead, with a packed calendar of trade tastings, educational sessions, awards, festivals and industry campaigns. Here are 18 of the most important and exciting opportunities in the Australian drinks calendar, specifically tailored to industry professionals. Happening this week: Drinks Association’s Pride in Drinks Melbourne Trivia Night @ Carlton Brewhouse, Melbourne 29 October, 5:30–8:30pm. From $45.
Interview: A day in a family-owned vineyard in Mercurey, Bourgogne
During a recent visit to Bourgogne for the biennial Grands Jours de Bourgogne trade tasting, I spent a day visiting Domaine Alain & Raphaël Corcia with winemaker Raphaël Corcia. This turned out to be a great decision. The wines are impressive and, with support from Australian importer Clos Cachet, have built a reputation for quality among Australian trade and wine consumers. More interesting, however, was the insight the visit offered into what distinguishes Bourgogne from other wine regions.
Applejack to reopen Opera Bar after major transformation
Applejack Hospitality will reopen Opera Bar on Friday 6 November one year after becoming the venue’s second operator since it opened in 2001. The reopening marks a major transformation for Opera Bar, with a redesign by Australian studio Luchetti Krelle and new food and drinks menus showcasing Sydney’s neighbourhoods and local producers. Applejack Hospitality co-founder Ben Carroll said: "Opera Bar is one of Australia's most iconic venues.
The Trade’s Take: Understanding Bourgogne’s Côte Chalonnaise
Côte Chalonnaise is the next stop south in Drinks Trade’s ongoing coverage of Bourgogne, following a recent visit to the region. Though less well known than Chablis, Côte de Nuits, and Côte de Beaune, it arguably presents a stronger opportunity for Australian trade. This is for a number of reasons, with the first being value. The region has no Grand Cru vineyards, but offers a range of wines from village and Premier Cru appellations. The second is diversity.
Diageo, TWE announce Australian celebrity partnerships
Baileys has partnered with Australian musician and actor Cody Simpson and book retailer Dymocks to launch Baileys Book Club, tapping into the two-thirds of Australians who read for pleasure. The launch follows Treasury Wine Estates’ appointment of chef and restaurateur Matt Moran as Pepperjack brand ambassador the previous week. Both partnerships use familiar Australian personalities to connect drinks brands with lifestyle occasions, drawing on their respective areas of expertise.
Visy commences production at new glass ‘supersite’ in Queensland
Visy has produced its first glass bottles at its new $500 million glass recycling and manufacturing facility in Yatala, Queensland. The beer bottles were produced in the first of two oxygen-fuelled furnaces, which lower emissions compared with traditional manufacturing facilities. Once both are fully operational, the facility will be capable of manufacturing up to one billion glass bottles and jars each year with an average of 70 per cent recycled content.
Asahi's Never Never reports vodka closing gap on gin, teases Japan entry
Asahi Beverages’ Never Never Distilling Co has confirmed that volumes of Signature Vodka are closing the gap on its flagship Triple Juniper Gin. The performance marks significant debut for the vodka, which was launched in October 2025, becoming the distillery’s first non-gin permanent product after eight years of operations. It also coincides with significant momentum for the distillery as it celebrates its 10th anniversary and prepares to launch into Japan.
Coles Group enters AI partnership with Coveo
Coles Group has partnered with AI-powered search platform Coveo to improve product discovery across its online store. Announced less than a month after Metcash’s partnership with Coveo, the integration will allow customers to search using natural language and describe what they need, using AI to process requests and generate better results. The Coveo technology is being integrated across coles.com.au, which includes a dedicated Liquorland webpage.
Tasted: Five standouts from Château Tanunda’s 2026 collection
Château Tanunda has unveiled its 2026 Collection, a suite of 10 wines championing fruit sourced from old-vine sites across the Barossa and Eden valleys. The collection reflects the Geber family’s commitment to preserving the Barossa Valley’s rich old vine heritage, with some wines sourced from vines planted as early as 1858. “The 2026 Collection is a statement,” said Michelle Geber, second-generation Managing Director.
LION replaces Asahi as official beer partner of the Australian Open
LION beer brand Hahn has signed a multi-year deal to become the official beer of the Australian Open and Australian Summer of Tennis tour, taking over from Asahi Beverages after seven years. The deal adds to Hahn's deepening alignment with Australian sports, which includes partnerships with the Wallabies, Football Australia, LIV Golf team Ripper GC, and the South Australian Cricket Association. In 2024, Hahn also partnered with AFL star Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin to launch Ultra Zero Carb.
Release Radar: Archie Rose’s new whisky range, Poco Vino enters sparkling, & more
Archie Rose relaunches whisky range with Chris Hemsworth Archie Rose Distilling and new co-owner Chris Hemsworth have unveiled an updated core range and all-new brand identity to support its US entry. The refreshed range retains Single Malt Whisky and Straight Rye Malt Whisky, formerly known as Rye Malt Whisky, and introduces Australian Original Whisky, a blend of the two bottled at 40% ABV.
Belvedere Dirty Brew launches in Australia
LVMH-owned premium vodka brand Belvedere has launched Dirty Brew, a 30% ABV coffee-flavoured vodka, into Australia. Produced at one of Poland’s longest-operating vodka distilleries, the release combines organic Polish rye and purified water with coffee flavour from organic coffee beans. It is designed to be consumed neat, over ice or as an elevated addition to cocktails and desserts.
Coopers reveals first Ginger Beer, exclusively on-tap
Coopers Brewery has launched its first Ginger Beer across selected New South Wales and South Australian venues, with a national roll-out of 50-litre kegs planned for the coming months. Contract-brewed by Sydney Brewery using real ginger, Coopers Pale Malt and Pride of Ringwood Hops, Coopers is positioning the release as a traditionally brewed ginger beer, rather than an RTD. Managing Director Michael Shearer said: “This isn’t an RTD dressed up to look like a ginger beer, it’s the real deal.
Australian Vintage adds nine sparkling and flavoured wines to Poco Vino
Australian Vintage-owned Poco Vino has expanded its small-format wine innovation, Poco Vino, with nine new sparkling and flavoured wine SKUs. Designed for lighter, more social and more relaxed drinking occasions, the extension includes Lemon, Peach, Watermelon, Passionfruit and Wild Berry spritzes, alongside Prosecco, Prosecco Rosé, Moscato and Raspberry Moscato.
What can fine wine learn from the fashion industry?
A recent Wine Communicators of Australia panel brought together leaders from Riedel, 67 Pall Mall and fashion label Jack & Jack to unpack how the definition of luxury is evolving in wine. The central message was that luxury is increasingly defined by more than price and heritage, encompassing personal connection, experience and perceived value.
Archie Rose unveils new whisky identity as Chris Hemsworth backs US expansion
Archie Rose Distilling has partnered with new co-owner Chris Hemsworth to kickstart the next chapter of its whisky program, complete with an updated core range and all-new brand identity. The refreshed range retains Single Malt Whisky and Straight Rye Malt Whisky, formerly known as Rye Malt Whisky, and introduces Australian Original Whisky, a blend of the two bottled at 40% ABV.
Retail Drinks demands answers from SA Government on ‘draconian’ alcohol delivery laws
Retail Drinks Australia has submitted a formal letter to South Australian Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs Michael Brown seeking answers to 42 questions about the state’s new alcohol-delivery laws. The legislation, which passed South Australian Parliament on 15 September, require a minimum two-hour pause between an online alcohol order and its delivery, and restrict same-day deliveries to between 10am and 10pm.
Alpha Box & Dice names first new Head Winemaker in 10 years
Rachel McBryde has been appointed Head Winemaker at Alpha Box & Dice Winery, stepping into the role following Sam Berketa's 10-year tenure. McBryde joined the McLaren Vale estate as winemaker in October 2024, following three years at Coonawarra producers Penley and Katnook Estate.
Report: Double-digit brand value growth for LVMH Champagnes as Penfolds slumps 32%
Champagne brands have continued to outperform still wine brands in Brand Finance’s Alcoholic Drinks 2026 report, with four Champagne brands featuring in each of the top 10 rankings for brand value and brand strength. The same two Australian wine brands featured in the rankings, with Penfolds slipping one place to fourth by value after its brand valuation declined 32 per cent, while Yellow Tail retained sixth place ranking despite a 14 per cent decline.
Coopers appoints F1 driver Valtteri Bottas as brand ambassador in summer campaign
Coopers Brewery has appointed Finnish Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas as a brand ambassador, handing him a Coopers Gold Card unlocking free Coopers beer around the country. Officially inducted as the brewery’s Quality Assurance Trainee, the Cadillac F1 team member will visit regional pubs across Australia to check beer freshness and keg quality. Punters who spot Bottas at a venue serving Coopers on tap can expect a beer on him.
What’s On: Have your say on nightlife changes, Jack Daniel’s RTD launch, & more
The Australian drinks trade has a busy spring ahead, with a packed calendar of trade tastings, educational sessions, awards, festivals and industry campaigns. Here are 19 of the most important and exciting opportunities in the Australian drinks calendar, specifically tailored to industry professionals. Happening this week: Andrew Guard rare wine takeover @ Cellar Bar, Melbourne 21 October. Free entry WCA and WISA ‘Storytelling for Wineries’ webinar 10–11am AEST @ online.
Samuel Smith & Son takes on Seppelt distribution following TWE sale
Samuel Smith & Son has been appointed the Australian distributor of Seppelt Wines, following the brand’s acquisition by Aaron Drummond and partners from Treasury Wine Estates in September. The appointment gives Seppelt access to Samuel Smith & Son’s national sales network and established customer relationships, as the brand enters its next chapter under new ownership.
Hellyers Road appoints DMG Fine Wine as distribution partner
Hellyers Road Distillery has partnered with DMG Fine Wine to expand its national and international reach. The strategic partnership centres around promoting Hellyers Road’s single malt and whisky cream range across mainland Australia, leveraging DMG’s existing networks. It also includes a longer-term ambition to introduce the Hellyers Road story and whisky portfolio to a broader international audience, with a particular focus on key Asian markets.
Flying Brick MC wins Best in Show at Australian Cider Awards
Flying Brick MC Cider 2018 has swept up at the 2026 Australian Cider Awards, taking out three of the 11 trophies including Best in Show, Best Traditional Cider and Best Australian Cider or Perry. The traditional apple cider from the Bellarine Peninsula was one of six entries to receive a 94-point gold medal, alongside Best New World Cider Small Acres ‘Femme Fatale’ Rose 2026 and Best Speciality Cider Spreyton Cider Sour Cherry.
‘We see a bright future’: TWE confident about economic recovery progress
Treasury Wine Estates has told shareholders it is satisfied with progress made towards its transformation agenda. The update, delivered at its annual general meeting on Thursday, shed light on Penfolds depletions tracking slightly ahead of plan in China, US depletions strengthening led by DAOU and Matua, and Australian depletions growing, led by Penfolds.
Wineries rack up majority of Michelin Stars in Australian debut
Winery restaurants accounted for seven of the 12 Michelin Stars awarded in the first Michelin Guide selection in Australia. These were awarded across 11 different venues, with Penfolds’ Magill Estate the only two-star recipient, positioning it as one of just 549 venues globally to have achieved the Two Star ranking.
Release Radar: Pirate Life’s Aus-first can innovation, Aperol Spritz 750ml, & more
Aperol introduces its first ready-to-serve 750ml Bottle Aperol is launching its Aperol Spritz ready-to-drink in a new 750ml bottle in Australia, bringing the iconic orange aperitivo to get-togethers in an easy, shareable way. The launch comes as the spritz category continues to surge in popularity across Australia, growing 49 per cent in dollar value year on year.
XXXX launches limited-edition cans celebrating Brisbane Lions’ three-peat
LION has released 100,000 limited-edition XXXX GOLD cans celebrating the Brisbane Lions’ third consecutive AFL premiership. XXXX, which has partnered with the Brisbane Lions for nine years, will make the cans available through selected independent liquor retailers and Liquorland stores across Queensland. XXXX National Field Sales Director Pat Donohue said the release marked an extraordinary achievement for the club.
Four Pillars brings back Australian Christmas Gin for 2026
Four Pillars has announced the return of its Australian Christmas Gin for 2026, the 11th edition of the seasonal release inspired by co-founder Cameron Mackenzie’s family Christmas pudding recipe. The gin recipe itself remains unchanged and features Christmas pudding ingredients such as cinnamon, star anise, coriander seed and angelica over a juniper base. Four Pillars then finishes the gin in barrel and incorporates a portion of 80-year-old Rutherglen Muscat to add richness and complexity.
Fourth Wave expands Patisserie range into sparkling with Cakeboi partnership
Fourth Wave Wine has expanded its Patisserie range with the launch of Raspberry Lamington Rosé, a sparkling wine developed in collaboration with Cakeboi founder and Australian pâtissier Reece Hignell. The release draws inspiration from Hignell’s signature Raspberry Lamington cake, combining raspberry flavours with hints of coconut, vanilla, and a lightly-sparkling structure reminiscent of a freshly baked sponge.
Six Queensland distilleries create The Rum Consortium 2026 limited edition
Six Queensland rum producers have collaborated to create the Rum Consortium 2026 Limited Edition Blend. The blend comprises rums from founding participants Beenleigh Rum, Bundaberg Rum, Kalki Moon Distilling and Brewing and Nil Desperandum Rum, alongside returning guest distiller Burdekin Rum and first-time participant FNQ Rum Co. It includes a range of both styles and ages, drawing on two to 12 year old spirits made from molasses, sugarcane syrup and fresh-pressed sugarcane juice.
Interview: Grey Goose master distiller on ‘possible evolution’ into RTD for Australian market
In April, Gianluigi ‘Gigi’ Torta became Grey Goose’s second master distiller, succeeding founder François Thibault, who held the role for 29 years. Drinks Trade spent an afternoon with Torta during his recent visit to Australia to learn more about his career spanning two decades at Bacardi Martini Group and his miller heritage, along with his plans for the distillery moving forward.
Don Julio, G.H. Mumm unveil new Melbourne Cup experiences
Diageo and Pernod Ricard will showcase expanded activations at the 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival with new consumer experiences centred around Tequila Don Julio and G.H. Mumm Champagne. At the centre of each campaign are new Birdcage enclosure activations, which are being expanded by the Victorian Racing Club to include seven distinctive gardens and more than 25 businesses. The decision follows 12 per cent growth in corporate hospitality revenue on Crown Oaks Day in 2025.
SA shines at Royal Adelaide Wine Awards, but top honours go interstate
South Australia posted a strong performance at the 2026 Royal Adelaide Wine Awards, claiming 12 of the 26 awarded trophies. However, the top accolades for the Most Outstanding White Wine in Show and Most Outstanding Red Wine in Show went to producers outside the state. The Most Outstanding White Wine of Show was Evans & Tate Redbrook Estate Chardonnay 2024, which repeated its recent IWSC 2026 score of 97 points.
Sydney CBD venues prepare for school formal season with DrinkWise campaign
The Sydney City Liquor Accord (SCLA) has partnered with DrinkWise to promote mindful drinking ahead of the upcoming school formal season. The two organisations will work together to deliver DrinkWise’s Drinking? Drink Mindfully campaign, reminding formal-goers that ID checks will be undertaken and that responsible consumption and respectful behaviour is expected across all Sydney venues.
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