Winetitles reports that Australian exhibitors in Paris are furious after Australian red wine was allegedly offered at about 60 cents per litre and Chardonnay at about 80 cents per litre, with claims some prices were even tied to the 2026 vintage, which has not been made yet. The article highlights concerns from growers and industry figures that ultra low pricing damages Australia’s premium ambitions, drags down grape prices, and sets a race to the bottom in international negotiations.
Pricing
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Wales Minimum Unit Price for Alcohol Increases by 30%
The BBC reports that beer and wine prices in Wales are set to rise after the minimum unit price for alcohol increases by 30 per cent, with the rate going up from 50p to 65p per unit from October, meaning a £1 can of lager will cost at least £1.30, a £2.50 bottle of cider will rise to £3.25 and a bottle of whisky will have a minimum price of £18.20 instead of £14, following approval by Senedd members of Welsh government proposals that ministers describe as a landmark move to reduce alcohol-related harm and deaths and to bring Wales into line with Scotland, although the Conservatives argue the policy unfairly penalises responsible drinkers.
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US Direct-to-Consumer Wine Prices Jump as Volume Falls
The San Francisco Chronicle reports that the average price of a bottle shipped direct-to-consumer in the US rose 11% in 2025 to $56.78, up from $50.53 in 2024, while shipment volume fell 15%. It says the rise is being driven less by wineries putting prices up, and more by value-conscious buyers dropping out, especially in wines under $15, which fell sharply year on year.