Sparkling wine from France’s iconic region
Independent reports Aldi is launching a 1.5-litre magnum of Le Grand Poulet rosé, signalling strong value in supermarket wine. The bottle goes on sale nationwide on July 6, priced at £11.99, with early reviews noting fresh strawberry, raspberry and peach notes and a softer, less dry finish than La Vieille Ferme rosé.
Governor Walz has signed the Grandparents’ Happy Hour measure, allowing alcohol at senior living events with prior notice, removing usual licensing barriers. The law goes into effect August 1 and aims to boost social life and dignity for residents.
Champagne’s harvest has moved earlier this year due to record heat and drought, with producers starting in mid-August instead of mid-September. Grapes show higher sugar and risk to acidity; producers are adapting by earlier picking, night harvesting, and exploring irrigation research. Yields are expected to fall, but quality remains crucial as climate pressures accelerate.
France has recorded a sharply reduced 2026 grape harvest after an exceptionally hot, dry summer pushed harvests earlier and cut yields. Champagne production has fallen by about half and regulators have temporarily allowed some 2026 bubbly to reach 15% alcohol after sugar levels rose in sun‑stressed grapes. The agriculture ministry has estimated total output near 33.9m hectolitres.