I did not attend the primeurs in Bordeaux this spring, as I typically avoid them due to the significant time investment and the challenge in evaluating wines still in the barrel. Instead, I prefer to wait until the wines have been bottled for approximately a year before tasting them at events like the Union des… Read More »
A new alliance of six producers is redefining the Dão region in Central Portugal, as they emphasize the old world charm and traditional varieties that reflect its unique terroir. The group, known as “New Dão,” was inspired by Álvaro Castro’s pioneering winemaking at Quinta da Pellada, where a restrained style contrasts with the over-extraction and… Read More »
Kiwi winemaker Sam Connew has established Stargazer Wines in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley, seeking to create wines that encapsulate a unique sense of place and time. As she approaches her 15th vintage with Stargazer, Connew reflects on her journey, emphasizing how passion and instinct have shaped her career. Her achievements are remarkable, having worked a… Read More »
Antonio Madeira is a prominent figure in the Dão wine region of Portugal, known for his exceptional wines. Recently, his latest releases were showcased at Simplesmente Vinho in Porto, February 2026. Antonio Madeira Branco 2023 Dão, PortugalThis old vine field blend is notable for its complexity and structure. Spending a year in barrel followed by… Read More »
Marc Bouffard’s book, Saint-Julien: Vineyards, Cellars, People, and Place, serves as an essential reference for enthusiasts of the Bordeaux appellation. Weighing over 4.5 pounds, it’s designed for detailed exploration rather than casual reading, and although it resembles a coffee table book, its substance far exceeds that. This volume is the first in a series aimed… Read More »
The Pannobile group, celebrating 30 years of collaboration, was initiated by John Nittnaus. The term “Pannobile” is derived from Pannonia, the historical name for a region that was a Roman province in western Hungary, paired with “Nobile,” which encapsulates the philosophy of the collective. The Pannobile group consists of eight wineries located in Burgenland, all… Read More »
Opus One, a renowned winery in Napa Valley, represents a unique blend of Bordeaux and Californian traditions. Established as a collaboration between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, it has been an emblem of luxury wine since its first release in 1984. The winery’s philosophy revolves around creating premium blends from its estate vineyard,… Read More »
The Decanter Wine Photography Competition is an exciting opportunity for photography enthusiasts to showcase their love for wine through stunning images. The competition invites entries that celebrate the wine world, whether through breathtaking landscapes, intimate gatherings, or creative abstract interpretations. Patrick Grabham, the Decanter art editor and chair of judges, expressed enthusiasm about the competition,… Read More »
A new addition to London’s dining scene, Labombe has quickly risen to prominence, earning a Michelin star since its opening. This restaurant is a sister establishment to the two-Michelin-starred Trivet and is under the expertise of chef Jonny Lake, with Isa Bal curating the wine selections. Nestled within the COMO hotel on Old Park Lane,… Read More »
It’s early summer at Tom Aiken’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Muse, in London’s Belgravia. Didier Mariotti, Veuve Clicquot’s chef de cave, presents the 11th release of La Grande Dame Rosé, which dates back to 1988. Although Mariotti’s first vintage as chef de cave will be the 2019 cuvée, he has already crafted the Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label… Read More »