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Significant reduction seen in fatal car crashes after an increase in alcohol taxes

Researchers at the University of Florida found that an increase in alcohol taxes led to a significant reduction in fatal car crashes. After Illinois raised its excise tax on beer, wine, and spirits by 2009, fatal alcohol-related car crashes decreased by 26%. The decrease was even more marked for young people, with a 37% reduction in fa...

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMar 31, 2015

Jailbreaking yeast could amp up wine's health benefits, reduce morning-after headaches

University of Illinois scientists have engineered a 'jailbreaking' yeast that increases wine's health benefits and reduces toxic byproducts. The new technology allows for precise metabolic engineering, enabling the addition of bioactive compounds from other foods and improving malolactic fermentation.

Country of origin: Are negative stereotypes always bad for business?

A new study shows that consumers won't judge products by their country of origin if the products are well-made. Consumers consider a country's reputation when evaluating its products, but this doesn't mean negative stereotypes always harm business. Instead, countries with poor reputations can promote superior product features to succeed

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 14, 2014

How the fruit fly could help us sniff out drugs and bombs

Researchers at University of Sussex have found that fruit flies can identify odours from illicit drugs and explosive substances as accurately as wine, a natural attractant. The study brings scientists closer to developing electronic noses (e-noses) that closely replicate the sensitive olfactory sense of animals.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateOct 14, 2014

Bronze Age wine cellar found

A Bronze Age wine cellar was uncovered at an ancient Canaanite palace in modern-day Israel, showcasing wine residue from over 40 jars. The jars contained chemical compounds indicative of wine, as well as subtle differences in ingredients or additives such as honey and cedar oil.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

Service is key to winery sales

Researchers found that customer service is key to boosting tasting room sales, with staff expertise and ambience creating a more intimate experience. The study also discovered that sensory descriptions of wine flavors can be off-putting for consumers, especially tourists.

SourceCornell University·JournalInternational Journal of Wine Business Research·DateMar 7, 2014

New tool to unlock genetics of grape-growing

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a web-based tool to examine the genetic interactions behind grapevine development. The 'VTCdb' database enables scientists to identify genes working together in networks, leading to better understanding of complex traits and improved wine production.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalBMC Genomics·DateFeb 27, 2014

Very berry study aims to improve wine quality

A gene expression study highlights genes that help buffer grapevines against environmental change and may explain the different quality performances of grapevine when grown in different terroirs. The research could be used to identify and breed grapevine varieties better suited to climate change.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateJun 6, 2013

New biomolecular archaeological evidence points to the beginnings of viniculture in France

Researchers have discovered biomolecular archaeological evidence of grape wine and winemaking in southern France, dating back to the 6th-5th century BCE. The findings confirm that ancient Etruscan amphoras introduced wine to the region, leading to the establishment of a native Celtic or Gallic vinicultural industry.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 3, 2013

Bitter tastes quickly turn milk chocolate fans sour

Researchers found that dark chocolate fans have a higher tolerance to bitter tastes than milk chocolate fans. The study used rejection thresholds to test food acceptability and could lead to cost-savings for the industry by identifying product rejection levels.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateAug 30, 2012

Drink made from berry wine may provide tasty drug for diabetes

Researchers have discovered compounds in berry wines that inhibit enzymes responsible for carbohydrate absorption, which could lead to a tasty and effective treatment for diabetes. The drinks contain high levels of anthocyanins, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and may have positive effects on cognitive function.

Vineyard records link early grape ripening to climate change

Scientists have attributed early grape ripening in wine grapes to climate warming and soil water content declines. The study reveals that management factors also influence the shift, providing opportunities for growers to develop adaptation strategies. Human-induced climate change is a key driver of this trend.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMar 14, 2012

Wine experts' ratings may be a wash for many consumers

Researchers found that wine experts were more sensitive to bitter tastes than non-experts, suggesting their ability to discern small differences in wine may be innate. This could mean that expert recommendations are too subtle for average consumers to sense.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Enology and Viticulture·DateMar 1, 2012

The indiscretions of a champagne bubble paparazzi

A study by Gérard Liger-Belair reveals the role of carbon dioxide in champagne bubbles, from second fermentation to gas escape through tiny bubbles popping on the surface of wine. The research provides clues for fine-tuning champagne production, including adjusting bubble size based on fermentation sugar levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateFeb 14, 2012

The best way to market fine wine: Teach and learn or wine and dine?

A recent study published in Cornell Hospitality Quarterly found that novice wine consumers can be swayed by advertising and create stronger memories when they have a better understanding of the product's background. To combat this, wine producers are advised to combine tasting experiences with educational materials.

SourceSAGE·JournalCornell Hospitality Quarterly·DateNov 22, 2011

Fine art in advertising can backfire

A new study by Boston College and the University of Houston found that fine art in advertising can be demoted to a mere product illustration, leading consumers to take a critical view of its message. Art loses its unique powers of communication when viewed as an ordinary image.

SourceBoston College·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateAug 23, 2011

How consumers discriminate

Consumers tend to focus on quality when faced with many choices, leading them to be willing to pay more for high-quality products. The study found that in controlled experiments and natural experiments, participants were prepared to pay up to 40% more for high-quality chocolates and wine when presented with a large assortment of options.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateAug 10, 2011

Chinese culture encourages binge drinking in middle-aged men

A nationwide study in China found that 55.6% of men and 15% of women are current drinkers, with frequent binge drinking among males and women averaging 5.6 and 2.4 binges per year, respectively. Cultural factors, such as social pressure and entrenched customs, contribute to the problem.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateJul 18, 2011