Fake Yellow Tail wine hits indies

Fake Yellow Tail wine has hit some UK shelves, but Casella Family Brands, who own Yellow Tail, say the fraud is limited to a handful of independent shops and not major supermarkets.

Yellow Tail’s managing director, Simon Lawson, has confirmed that recent wine fraud targeting the brand appears confined to UK independent retailers using illegitimate suppliers. He reassured consumers that all major supermarkets and off-licences remain unaffected, thanks to a secure, direct supply chain.

The brand was previously hit by a criminal gang operating in Moldova involving up to 100,000 cases of fake wine. Yellow Tail works closely with Trading Standards to minimise the risk of counterfeit wines reaching consumers.

Lawson said Yellow Tail's recent label design refresh, the first in 25 years, was to boost shelf appeal, though it may also make counterfeiting harder.

A new marketing campaign launches next month, aiming to reconnect the brand with customers and celebrate the simple moments in life that bring joy and happiness.