The rumours that Classic Wine magazine has given up the ghost were confirmed this afternoon.

“To whom it may concern

It is with great regret to inform you that Classic FM has, after much consideration, decided to suspend the print publication Classic Wine until further notice.

Accordingly, we will be reimbursing pro-rata all subscribers for the issues they did not receive.

Please email Classic FM’s Financial Manager, Quintin Hawthorne [email protected] your banking details as the money owing will be reimbursed via eft.”

Media commentators say they are not surprised at the demise after the notorious Whale Cottage blogger was hired as a correspondent.

The Classic collapse follows hot on the heals of the rumoured demise of Wine Extra. Has the era of glossy lifestyle wine magazines come to an abrupt end, leaving undeclared advertorial rags as the only remaining game in town? A wine industry gets the magazines it deserves says my local barfly.

Classic made a colourful if brief contribution to the SA wine scene. Wine judges will miss the generously remunerated tastings while hacks will miss the R2.50 per word rate for their deep insights and extended metaphors. Winelands restaurants will miss the award dinners while producers have yet another showcase for their gems vandalized by financial realities. RIP Classic Wine.