Eastern Slovenia, particularly the Štajerska region, is an overlooked gem in the wine world, producing remarkable wines that can age for decades. Recently, an astonishing tasting revealed the impressive potential of this region, often overshadowed by more famous wine areas. One standout experience was tasting a 1927 Šipon (Furmint) from Ptujska Klet, which is part… Read More »
Simon Field MW recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of Bruno Paillard’s Perpetual Reserve, highlighting the evolution and complexity of this remarkable Champagne. Established in 1981 by Bruno Paillard, this winery is noted for its commitment to quality, distinct from other ventures linked to the Lanson-BCC group. Today, it is led by Bruno’s daughter, Alice, who… Read More »
Frédéric Marc Burrier has spent years leading the Pouilly-Fuissé region, yet he remains refreshingly genuine, far from the political theatrics often seen in the industry. His journey is interwoven with change, reflecting both personal growth and broader developments in wine classification. The first visit I made to Le Pichet de Solutré two decades ago was… Read More »
As with last year, I had the pleasure of experiencing Henschke’s single vineyard releases alongside Stephen and Prue during a Zoom call. Their wines are a testament to the joy of winemaking, evident even in my first visit in July, where the rain welcomed me on a particularly dry day. At Henschke, located in Eden… Read More »
Once part-owned by Robert Parker and now belonging to the esteemed Artemis stable, Beaux Frères continues to produce exceptional Pinot Noir under the management of founder Mike G Etzel’s son, Mike D Etzel. In a significant shift, Mike D took over as winemaker in 2016 and later ascended to leadership in 2023, after years of… Read More »
When I visited Angelo Gaja in Barbaresco, he made an unexpected claim: "The future of winemaking is in white wines." This statement was particularly striking coming from Gaja, a master of Nebbiolo, known for the iconic red wines of Barbaresco and Barolo. Gaja has always been ahead of the curve, having previously produced two Chardonnays—Gaia… Read More »
Meerlust, a renowned winery situated on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, continues to impress with its latest wine releases. Known for its flagship wine, Rubicon, Meerlust offers a diverse selection that is both notable and affordably priced. Recent Releases Meerlust Estate Red 2022The estate red has been renamed to highlight its status as an estate wine.… Read More »
Montpeyroux, located in the Languedoc region of southern France, has received official recognition as a new ‘cru’ appellation, set to debut with the 2026 vintage. This decision, confirmed by the French National Institute for Origin and Quality (INAO) in February 2026, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the area’s wine landscape, transitioning from… Read More »
I recently discovered the enchanting wines crafted by Anne-Claire Schott in the Three Lakes region of Switzerland. Situated in Neuchatel, Schott employs Demeter-Certified biodynamic practices on her vineyard. Anne-Claire presents two distinct labels: the first adheres to the traditional styles established by her parents, Peter and Marie-Thérèse; the second, known as Aroma der Landschaft, reflects… Read More »
The Dirty Martini has surged in popularity, capturing the attention of cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. Andy Loudon, director of bars at Rosewood London, notes a significant shift towards savory, umami-driven drinks, and the Dirty Martini is a prime example. It seamlessly marries familiarity with a punch of flavor, offering a savory experience without the need for… Read More »