The final masterclass of the day at the 2026 Decanter Fine Wine Encounter New York showcased Heitz Cellar, a benchmark Napa Valley winery, through an engaging retrospective hosted by Master Sommelier Carlton McCoy, the president and CEO of Lawrence Wine Estates, which owns Heitz. Despite a long day of tastings, the room was packed as… Read More »
Riesling, a fascinating grape variety, served as the focal point of a seminar held at the Konstantin Frank winery, located on the picturesque west side of Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes region. The seminar aimed to explore the unique characteristics of Riesling and its place in the local wine landscape. Konstantin Frank, originally from… Read More »
Konstantin Frank is widely recognized as one of the leading wineries in the Finger Lakes region of New York State, with its first vintage dating back to 1962. Konstantin Frank, who emigrated from Ukraine after World War II as a non-English speaker, had a background in viticulture from Odessa. There, he successfully cultivated vinifera grapes,… Read More »
Pomerol is renowned for its exceptional Merlot-based wines, and the 2025 vintage continues this tradition with remarkable notes from various producers. Simon Field MW presents a detailed analysis of the wines featured during the Bordeaux en primeur tastings. Château BeauregardWith a blend of 72% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine has… Read More »
I’ve had the pleasure of reading Pressing Matters, the debut book by Alan Ramey, who comes from a family known for its contributions to winemaking. His father, David Ramey, is a renowned California winemaker famous for exquisite Chardonnays. This legacy frames Alan’s work, which spans significant discussions in the wine industry. Pressing Matters delves into… Read More »
Paul Hobbs, an influential figure in the wine industry, founded Hillick & Hobbs winery on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake near Watkins Glen. Having launched his first winery in 1981, Hobbs’s passion for Riesling led him back to his roots in New York. The vineyard, named in honor of his parents who met at… Read More »
The 2025 Bordeaux tasting notes for the Left Bank’s Graves and Pessac-Léognan regions, curated by Simon Field MW, highlight the nuances and characteristics of both red and white wines produced in this vintage. Graves / Pessac-Léognan Blanc Château Carbonnieux Cru Classé (55% Sauvignon Blanc, 45% Sémillon)An elegant white with a high alcohol level (14%) balanced… Read More »
Sometimes, seizing the opportunity is essential, much like Ferris Bueller’s iconic philosophy. Recently, after serving as a judge at a wine competition with fellow panelists Cokie Ponikvar and Christopher Waters, I took the chance to enjoy a meal at Treadwell, a top restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Over the years, I’ve visited Treadwell multiple times, and each… Read More »
It’s game three of the group stages in the World Cup, where teams are fighting for their chance to advance. Some teams are already assured of their place in the next round, while others will be battling it out to secure their spot. The excitement is palpable, and it’s a perfect time to enjoy some… Read More »
ST-JULIEN Simon Field MW shares his tasting notes from the 2025 Bordeaux en primeur tastings, focusing on the St-Julien wines. Château Beychevelle 4ème Cru (52% CS, 43% M, 5% PV) This wine presents a generous blend of damson, Morello cherry, and hints of vanilla from new oak. The shorter maceration and measured extraction have resulted… Read More »