Researchers at the University of California have potentially discovered why red wine causes headaches in some individuals, even with minimal consumption and no issues with other alcoholic beverages. Published in Scientific Reports, the study identifies quercetin, a compound in grapes affected by sun exposure, as a possible culprit. Quercetin, an antioxidant found in higher concentrations in quality wines from smaller, leafier plants, may interfere with alcohol metabolism. Previous theories, such as sulfite allergies or histamine levels, lacked conclusive evidence. The study also notes a higher intolerance to alcohol among East Asians due to a specific gene affecting the ALDH2 enzyme, which metabolizes alcohol. Quercetin appears to indirectly inhibit ALDH2, leading to the accumulation of acetaldehyde and associated symptoms, similar to the reaction observed in some East Asians.

Researchers from the National University of Singapore have found that grape consumption has beneficial effects on vision. Published in the 'Food & Function' journal, their study indicates that grapes, rich in antioxidants, can combat oxidative stress and associated visual impairments, particularly benefiting the elderly. The study involved 34 adults, half of whom consumed 46 grams of freeze-dried grape powder daily for 16 weeks, showing improved macular pigment optical density and reduced toxic compounds known as advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).

The 3rd Symposium on Regenerative Viticulture, held at Castell de Falset in Priorat and organized by the Associació de Viticultura Regenerativa, focused on the importance of soil microbiology for resilient agriculture. The event featured national and international experts discussing how soil microbiology can help vineyards face climate emergencies. Presenters emphasized the need for regenerative agriculture, not just as a set of practices but as a mindset and philosophy. Key speakers included Miquel Torres Maczassek, who highlighted the human dimension of regenerative viticulture, and Dr. Elaine Ingham, who spoke on maximizing microorganism diversity to boost nutrient cycles and plant defenses. The symposium also addressed the natural control of pests and the challenges of climate change in Catalonia, with predictions of reduced precipitation and increased irrigation needs for viticulture, posing a significant threat to the country's food security.

The tradition of dousing winners with sparkling wine in sports celebrations originated in Formula 1, tracing back to the 1950s when Argentine driver Juan Manuel Fangio of Scuderia Ferrari received a large bottle of Moët & Chandon after winning the French Grand Prix. The practice of opening and spraying the bottle started accidentally in 1966 by Jo Siffert and was popularized in 1967 by Dan Gurney. This celebratory act has since become widespread across various sports, serving as a lucrative business and promotional tool for sparkling wine brands, especially in Formula 1.

The Vinari Awards for Wine Tourism 2023 Delivery Gala recognized various experiences and initiatives in Catalonia, Spain. Awards were given for the best gastronomic experience, cultural, social, and sports wine tourism experience, solidarity wine tourism activity, most innovative wine tourism activity, and wine tourism activity in the field of environment and sustainability. The winners included Restaurant La Morera, Centre d’Interpretació de la Malvasia de Sitges, Celler Alta Alella, AECAVA, Empordalia, Cava Bertha, and Bodegues Sumarroca. This is the second year for the wine tourism contest, which aims to promote quality wine tourism in Catalonia and encourage continuous improvement and innovation in the sector.

Pernod Ricard is at risk of losing the right to use the 'Havana Club' trademark in the United States to Bacardí due to new American legislation aimed at preventing the Cuban regime from benefiting from expropriated trademarks. The law, supported by both major U.S. parties, seeks to protect assets seized 'illegally' with the rise of communism in Cuba. The dispute over the Havana Club trademark has been ongoing for nearly three decades, with Bacardí purchasing the brand and recipe from the descendants of the original founder after leaving Cuba post-revolution.

Massive wildfires in southern Chile that have been raging since early February have burned over 300 hectares of old vineyards, according to official figures. The fires have affected more than 450,000 hectares in total and continue to spread. The tragedy has resulted in the death of 25 people and nearly 17,000 animals, with the fruit sector in southern Chile also severely impacted, as nearly 7,000 producers report significant or total losses to their crops. Over 40 individuals have been arrested in connection with the fires, which appear to have been started intentionally. The majority of the destroyed vineyards are in the Ñuble area, also known as the Itata wine region, where 291 hectares of crops have been lost, with neighboring provinces of Bio Bio and Maule suffering less damage.

Jean Lenoir, the creator of the renowned olfactory wine kit 'Le Nez du Vin', has died at the age of 85. Born into a wine-producing family in Burgundy, Lenoir's journey took him from being a paratrooper in the French armed forces during the Algerian War of Independence to creating a toolset for distinguishing wine aromas and writing guides on the subject. His work gained international recognition and helped thousands of sommeliers, salespeople, and wine enthusiasts to appreciate the nuances of each wine. 'Le Nez du Vin' was first released in 1981 and has evolved over the years, with the main 'Masterkit' now containing 54 different aromas.

The Coordinadora de Colles Castelleres de Catalunya (CCCC) announced a new agreement with cooperative Som to handle the broadcasts of castelleres events, replacing La Xarxa. However, the two most prominent casteller groups, Vella dels Xiquets de Valls and Castellers de Vilafranca, opposed the deal, citing a lack of transparency and claiming that image rights were not rightfully owned by CCCC. The CCCC insists rights were assigned in a 2018 vote, while the opposing groups maintain they did not sign off on this. The situation is further complicated by financial considerations, with the new deal offering less budget than La Xarxa and potential loss of sponsorship revenue for the groups. Accusations of political motives and financial mismanagement within the CCCC have also surfaced. Despite tensions, there is a willingness to negotiate if certain conditions are met.

In the Catalan Countries, the first skinheads appeared in Barcelona, with Decibelios and Skatalà being prominent bands from that era. Quique Gallart was considered the first skinhead in the city, blending punk and mod influences. Decibelios, formed by Carles Fray Treviño, initially did not intend to be a skinhead band but became an emblem for the movement, even incorporating the Spanish flag into their symbols. A second wave of skinheads became more political and confrontational, leading to tensions with punks and other skins. Decibelios' neutral stance towards neonazis allowed such elements to grow within the skinhead scene, mirroring the UK's situation where the far-right co-opted the movement. Skatalà, on the other hand, explicitly rejected Nazi presence at their events. The skinhead scene in Barcelona saw violence and division, with Decibelios' popularity waning due to their ultranationalist followers' behavior at concerts. Both bands eventually disbanded, with Skatalà leaving a lasting legacy in Jamaican rhythm-oriented bands.

At the end of their campaign, the CUP reaffirmed their commitment to the referendum and the social and national rights of Catalonia, invoking the memory of past struggles and emphasizing the revolutionary nature of their movement. The event in Poblenou was attended by over three thousand people and included emotional speeches from various activists and politicians. They highlighted the importance of a just and inclusive Catalan Republic, the resistance against fascism, and the need to honor the legacy of their predecessors. The CUP criticized those who are indifferent or opposed to the referendum and announced that, in case of a victory, the declaration of independence would occur on October 4th.