Minimalist approach

Regional brewer Batemans has given its eight-strong bottled beer range a minimalist look to help consumer choice. The beers will have new labels, giving details of their flavour characteristics. The lighter beers - Spring Breeze, Summer Swallow and Combined Harvest - will now appear in clear glass bottles.

South African launch

Kingsland Wine and Spirits has become distributor for Overhex Wines International of South Africa bulk and branded wines in the UK. The new venture starts with the launch of a range of South African wines at the generic Wines of South Africa tasting event in the middle of next month.

Asda sponsors

The Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) has announced that Asda is to be a sponsor of its inaugural Local Brewing Business Awards, for the 'best support for an off-trade retailer' category, to reflect the retailer's commitment to sourcing local beers.

FirstCape launches

FirstCape has launched two additions to its premium First Selection range, with packaging and blends designed specifically for and available solely from Tesco. The range consists of a Chardonnay Viognier and a Shiraz.