Lalou Bize-Leroy, known as Burgundy’s grande dame, has had a significant impact on the wine world. Beginning her journey from a lineage deeply rooted in viticulture, her father, Henri Leroy, was a key figure in the family wine business, Maison Leroy, contributing to its growth in the 20th century. Lalou’s own interest in wine sparked… Read More »

I recognize the irony in discussing how we should stop writing about wine writing while doing exactly that. Nonetheless, the topic remains relevant, especially for those within the wine writing community. This issue addresses how we adapt and thrive in a fast-changing media landscape. The conversation around wine writing is crucial for those whose livelihood… Read More »

Fred Peterson, a modest and talented vintner from California’s Dry Creek Valley, shares the winding path that led him to winemaking. From his service in the US Navy, he navigated a career that eventually blended into his role as a part-time firefighter and a passionate wine producer. Describing his journey, Fred acknowledges that he has… Read More »

The 2025 edition of the Michelin Guide for Buenos Aires and Mendoza reinforces Argentina’s reputation as a culinary destination, with a notable emphasis on sustainability and eco-responsibility. The guide includes 25 new entries, showcasing a vibrant and evolving gastronomic scene where both established and new venues make impressive marks. At a launch event held at… Read More »

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being recognized as a potential ally for Napa wineries striving to navigate the uncharted waters of climate change. During a recent seminar in London, Kia Behnia, co-owner of Neotempo Wines, expressed the pressing need for wineries to adapt to the climate’s unpredictability—what he describes as "climate chaos." Behnia elucidated that… Read More »

The 2020 Barolo wines are noted for their remarkable qualities, garnering high praise in a recent tasting that evaluated various expressions from the vintage. The experiences of the tasters highlighted the nuanced characteristics of the wines, along with their potential for aging. Poderi Luigi Einaudi Barolo Monvigliero Verduno 2020 stood out with its mid-ruby color… Read More »

Domaine Louis Magnin Savoie Arbin Mondeuse Vielles Vignes 2003 from Savoie, France, presents a remarkable example of an aged Mondeuse. With an alcohol content of 12.5%, this wine was raised exclusively in stainless steel. The aroma is refreshingly vibrant, featuring notes of red cherries, plums, and a hint of tar complemented by a pleasant fruitiness.… Read More »

Matt Walls revisits the 2022 vintage of St-Joseph, which experienced a hot and dry climate, and selects 35 standout wines that promise to impress. Historically, extremely hot vintages like 2003 were challenging for winemakers. They lacked experience in handling such conditions, resulting in wines that often disappointed. However, by 2022, winemakers had adapted their techniques… Read More »

Rats have often been viewed with disdain, especially since their association with historical calamities like the Black Death. Yet, new research reveals a surprising skill: rats can distinguish between the scents of Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc wines. This discovery may set the stage for a unique career shift for these critters. In a study conducted… Read More »

At a recent tasting event organized by the Libération Tardive Foundation, the topic of whether English wine ages backwards was humorously raised. Held at Skinners Hall, the event featured noteworthy wines from Breaky Bottom, Gusbourne, and Hattingley. Attendees, including key industry figures like Peter Hall from Breaky Bottom and Mary Bridges, the head winemaker at… Read More »