Wine Fraud: Tricks, Scams, and How to Avoid Them
Written by - Cult Wines Team
Wine has long been a symbol of celebration, status and craftsmanship, but behind some of the world’s most prized bottles lies a hidden history of deception.
From ancient additives to modern forgeries worth millions, wine fraud has evolved into a sophisticated art. This article explores the fascinating story of how fraudsters have fooled collectors, sommeliers and investors, and how some of the most notorious scams, including the case of Rudy Kurniawan, came to light.
Explore how counterfeiters fake everything from labels to provenance, and how today’s wine world is fighting back with technology, secure storage and rigorous verification. For collectors and investors, understanding these risks is key to protecting both passion and portfolio. Discover what to look out for and how professionals help keep cellars safe.
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News in brief
Ruinart’s Frédéric Panaïotis Dies in Tragic Freediving Accident
Frédéric Panaïotis, Ruinart’s cellar master since 2007, has died aged 60 during a freediving session in Belgium. Panaïotis was widely respected for his technical skills, innovation, and communication talents, helping to elevate Ruinart’s global profile. He introduced Blanc Singulier, championed sustainability and revived cork ageing for Dom Ruinart. Tributes highlight his passion, humility, and lasting impact on the Champagne region. Ruinart president Frédéric Dufour praised him as a unique personality whose vision will continue to shape the house.
Vietnam Approves Major Alcohol Tax Hike to 90 Per Cent
Vietnam’s parliament has approved a steep increase in alcohol tax, raising it from 65 per cent to 90 per cent by 2031 in an effort to reduce consumption. The tax will rise gradually, reaching 70 per cent by 2027. The move targets beer and spirits, sparking criticism over the inclusion of beer, given its lower ABV. Wine tariffs are unaffected for now, with EU wines still expected to enter duty-free by 2027. The World Health Organisation has praised the decision as a major step in protecting public health and boosting economic productivity.
Italian Wine Faces Critical Tariff Threat in US
Italian wine exports to the US are at risk as potential 50% tariffs loom under Trump’s trade policy. July is viewed as a make-or-break month to avoid major disruptions, particularly for entry-level wines like Pinot Grigio and Prosecco. While premium wines may weather the storm, producers fear long-term damage to trade ties, brand recognition and pricing structures. Many are urgently seeking new markets while calling for stronger diplomatic efforts to preserve access to Italy’s most important export destination.
What we’re drinking
Clos Henri, ‘Otira’ Glacial Stones, 2022
Sean Wright, Fine Wine Buyer - Cult Wines
Opened recently on a warm summer evening, this somewhat distinctive example of Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from a single vineyard situated upon stony soils shaped by an ancient glacier on the western edge of New Zealand’s Wairau Valley.
The nose is headlined by well-defined minerality, with aromas of damp riverbank stones unfurling from the glass. On the palate, this displays a leaner fruit profile than is typical for Sauvignon Blanc from this part of the world, with Mirabelle Plums and freshly squeezed lemon juice balancing the persistent minerality. Around 15% of Otira is fermented in oak, and the wine undergoes a period of ageing on the lees, lending subtle textural depth. A touch of young grass shoots is typical of the variety, though this character is notably subtler than in many Marlborough examples.
Perhaps not entirely surprising, given Clos Henri’s connection to the region through its founders, this is a wine that takes (almost) as much inspiration from the western Loire Valley as it does from Wairau, crafting a unique take on New Zealand’s most globally renowned wine style.
Our fine wine feature
Inside the Koch Auction: A Collector’s Legacy
Written by - Jonathan Stevenson, EVP Americas - Cult Wines
The recent auction of William “Bill” Koch’s legendary wine collection marked a defining moment in the fine wine market. Held over three days at Christie’s New York, the sale brought decades of meticulous collecting to light, offering bidders rare access to one of the most storied cellars in the world.
In Part 1, we explore Koch’s journey as a collector, his fight against wine fraud, and the incredible scope of the auction itself. Then, Part 2 breaks down the numbers, region by region, vintage by vintage, highlighting top-performing lots and standout results from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne, Italy, and beyond. Together, these insights reveal the scale of Koch's collection and broader market signals behind the auction's success.
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Explore & travel
Top 10 Summer Wine Travel Destinations
Written by - Alexa Atkinson, Senior Marketing Manager - Cult Wines
Looking for the ultimate summer wine escape? Our latest guide uncorks 10 top destinations that combine stunning scenery, rich culture and unforgettable wines. From Provence’s sunlit rosé terraces and Napa’s golden vineyards to the dramatic slopes of the Douro and the volcanic beauty of Santorini, each region offers a unique blend of flavour and adventure.
Whether you crave iconic names like Tuscany and Marlborough or want to discover emerging gems such as Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe, this guide will help inspire your next getaway.
Explore where your next glass could take you and plan a summer filled with great wine, food and memories
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