The lush region of northwestern Portugal, once largely recognized for its inexpensive, fizzy white wines, has undergone a remarkable transformation, establishing itself as one of Europe’s most dynamic wine regions, according to Sarah Ahmed. By Sarah Ahmed It may seem contradictory to say that now is the perfect time to explore Vinho Verde. This northwesternmost… Read More »
Marqués de Riscal had secured second place in the World’s Best Vineyards for three consecutive years—2021, 2022, and 2023—but at the awards ceremony held on Monday night, the Rioja producer finally earned the coveted first position. It was one of three Spanish vineyards to make it into the top 10, joining the ranks of Bodegas… Read More »
I have several favorites. In the past, I would boast about trying anything that was sealed with a cork; nowadays, I’ve become somewhat more selective. Sparkling wines rank high on my list of comfort drinks – and not exclusively Champagne. England has emerged with numerous brands that provide the refreshment and lift I seek. Many… Read More »
Website: https://www.cartuxa.pt/en/ Last week, while I was delivering a lecture at the university in Vila Real, I enjoyed a bottle of wine that holds a special place in my heart. Many years ago, I had my first encounter with this wine and I had an epiphany about the incredible potential of Portuguese wines! Cartuxa Tinto… Read More »
What is the current status of Australian fine wine producers in mainland China following the removal of the damaging tariffs that have been in place since 2020? By Edward Ragg MW and Fongyee Walker MW This March, after much anticipation, the Chinese government lifted the 2020 tariffs on Australian wine. In January, during our visit… Read More »
A single bottle of Château Latour 1865 was auctioned for HK$812,500 (£80,500), including buyer’s premium, at Christie’s Hong Kong on 30 October, significantly exceeding its pre-sale high estimate of HK$220,000. The auction also included bottles of Bouchard Père & Fils Burgundy wines from the 1860s, featuring rare selections sourced directly from the estates owned by… Read More »
Many people believe that being a restaurant critic for a prominent publication is an enviable position. The idea of dining at someone else’s cost and penning down your thoughts sounds appealing. But how challenging could it really be? In reality, it is quite a tough job, and I wouldn’t trade places with them. I hold… Read More »
Michel Bettane contemplates the challenges facing the region’s wine industry. By Michel Bettane The small community surrounding Bordeaux’s wine trade, while navigating the difficult situation of France’s economy, still has not fully acknowledged how significant its wines have fallen out of favor—a phenomenon often referred to as “Bordeaux bashing.” The 2023 en primeur initiative has… Read More »
Bonhams has placed an estimated value of €700,000 to €1,200,000 (£586,000 to £1,004,000) on the Hanyu Ichiro Full Card Series. This remarkable collection includes 54 bottles, all of which bear the signature of the esteemed master distiller Ichiro Akuto. Amayès Aouli, the global head of wine and spirits at Bonhams, remarked: ‘This presents a fantastic… Read More »
History was crafted on Saturday, 26 October, as the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter (DFWE) launched its inaugural event in Singapore, providing an extraordinary experience of wine and whisky tasting. Fifty-four esteemed producers from 13 countries participated, offering attendees the opportunity to sample over 200 exquisite bottles. Guests also took part in three exceptional masterclasses, one… Read More »