Texas Wine’s High Plains: A New Era of Quality and Recognition

The Texas High Plains, an expansive region marked by flat landscapes and agricultural diversity, produces over 80% of the state’s wine grapes. Despite its unglamorous reputation, this area underlies a dynamic and evolving wine industry. As Texas wines gain more recognition, especially during recent years, the growers from the High Plains are confronting market corrections… Read More »

Exploring Unique Grape Varieties: A Tasting Experience at Shrine to the Vine

I recently attended a fascinating tasting event titled "Unusual Grape Varieties" hosted by Anna Kielsznia, the General Manager at Shrine To The Vine in Broadway Market. As a fan of lesser-known grape varieties, I was excited to explore eight unique wines highlighted during the evening. Champagne Olivier Horiot Petit Meslier 2018 (France)This wine is made… Read More »

Panel Tasting Results: Spotlight on New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

New Zealand has made a name for itself with Sauvignon Blanc, showcasing a delightful range of flavors across its regions. Recently, three judges tasted 163 wines and found a broad overview of what’s available currently. Most submissions came from Marlborough, with nearly two-thirds originating from the 2025 vintage. While Marlborough continued to lead with the… Read More »

Decanter World Wine Awards 2026: The Ultimate UK Shopper’s Guide

Here we present a selection of wines that achieved recognition at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2026, all available from leading UK supermarkets. Asda Gold Medal Winners 95 Asda, Exceptional Mas Miralda Cava Brut, Catalonia, Spain 2023 An aromatic blend with notes of lemon peel and almond, featuring succulent acidity. (12%) £7.75 95 Asda, Exceptional… Read More »

Tasting Three Affordable Aldi Rosés: Which One Comes Out on Top?

Rosé wine has become increasingly popular, and consumers now have an expansive selection to choose from. In a recent video, three budget-friendly rosés from Aldi were put to the test. The wines sampled were: Buenes Vida Argentinian Malbec Rosé 2025 from Mendoza, Argentina (£5.29) Costellore Primitivo Rosato 2025 from Puglia, Italy (£5.29) Pierre Jaurant Le… Read More »

Exploring Prestige Cuvées: The Rise of Super Premium English Sparkling Wines

On hearing the term "prestige cuvée," many seasoned wine lovers instantly think of esteemed Champagne offerings that signify the pinnacle of a producer’s winemaking ambition. A renowned example is Dom Pérignon, released first in 1936, often associated with exceptional vineyard sites and collaborations with the realms of art, fashion, and luxury. As the popularity of… Read More »