Wine News Roundup: Highlights from the Week of July 6, 2025

Hello and welcome to a roundup of intriguing wine-related stories from the past week, presented for those who prefer not to use Flipboard.

Dr. Richard E. Smart (1945–2025)
A highly regarded figure within viticulture has passed away, leaving a significant impact on the world of wine.

China Discovers $20M Wine Smuggling Operation
A recent crackdown unveils a substantial smuggling ring, with speculation that this might only be the beginning of larger operations.

Jancis Robinson MW Becomes RVF Patron
Celebrated wine expert Jancis Robinson has taken on a philanthropic role with the RVF, a development welcomed by many in the industry.

Sangiovese’s Resurgence in California
Once dismissed, California’s Sangiovese is now making a remarkable comeback, showcasing a successful return to the spotlight.

California Wine Breaks Sales Trends
Continuing the trend of Sangiovese, a specific California wine is defying current market expectations.

Moon Mountain: A New Winemaking Hotspot
This picturesque region is becoming popular among winemakers for its unique growing conditions and breathtaking views.

Exploring Maremma: A Hidden Gem in Tuscany
Maremma is starting to gain attention as an underappreciated area in Tuscany, with potential for growth in both quality and reputation.

Trump’s Trade Talks May Target European Goods
Discussion surrounding heavy tariffs raises questions about the future of French wine and Italian cheese markets in the United States.

Laura Catena: Pioneering Argentine Wine
A deep dive into Laura Catena’s significant contributions to Argentine winemaking and her leadership at the Catena Zapata winery.

Queer Wine Professionals Shaping the Industry
Meet the dynamic personalities in the wine scene who are redefining norms and promoting diversity in wine lists.

Global Restaurant Wine Friendliness
A comparison reveals which countries offer a more accommodating experience for wine enthusiasts compared to the USA.

American Producers Innovate with Orange Wine
American winemakers are creating their unique style of orange wine, blending tradition with modernity for a fresh perspective.

For further reading, you can check out the articles via the provided links for each story.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!