#WeekInPictures: Vinitaly’s global push, courtside Cabernet and Varsity victory
From Milan and Dallas to Oxford and Dalston, this week brought international ambition, retail debuts, whisky launches and a hard-fought blind tasting between Britain’s oldest rivals.
Vinitaly sets its sights on new markets
At Casa Italia in Milan’s Triennale, Vinitaly outlined an expanded international roadmap alongside Italy’s Ministry of Agriculture and ITA. Speaking at the LT Wine&Food Advisory event, Minister Francesco Lollobrigida pointed to growth opportunities from Mercosur to India, while Veronafiere president Federico Bricolo detailed plans to strengthen activity in Brazil, China and the US – including Vinitaly USA in New York – and explore Central and South Asia.
DAOU returns to the Nexo Dallas Open
DAOU Vineyards reprised its role as Official Wine of the 2026 Nexo Dallas Open, pouring Bordeaux-style wines from its signature lounge at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas. With top-ranked players including Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton (pictured) on court.
Witchmark lands at Selfridges
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Wiltshire distillery Witchmark has secured a listing at Selfridges, debuting a new in-store display on Oxford Street. London Dry Single Origin Gin, Black Lime Gin and Single Origin Vodka are now available in London, Birmingham and Manchester Trafford stores, with tastings running through mid-March.
Virginia Distillery Co. launches in the UK
At Acme Fire Cult in Dalston, CEO Gareth Moore introduced American Single Malt brand Virginia Distillery Co. to the UK trade. Produced in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains from 100% malted barley, the whiskies benefit from a warm, fluctuating climate that accelerates cask interaction.
Oxford wins the 73rd Varsity blind tasting
Oxford triumphed over Cambridge in the 73rd Varsity blind tasting, held in London with the support of Champagne Pol Roger. Oxford captain Julian Leidy was named Top Taster, overturning an early Cambridge lead in the whites with a strong performance in the reds.
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