Sophie Menin and Bob Chaplin’s book, A Year in the Vineyard, offers an engaging chronicle of global viticulture through a blend of evocative text and stunning imagery. This literary and visual masterpiece invites readers into the seasonal cycle of the vineyard, capturing its richness and diversity. Upon opening the book, readers are encouraged to reflect… Read More »
Ricardo Freitas, a third-generation producer from Madeira, leads the renowned family firm Barbeito, admired as the island’s foremost producer. The history of winemaking on Madeira dates back to 1425, with a significant economic impact noted in the late 17th century when wine became a key export. Initially not fortified, the introduction of spirit additions in… Read More »
In March 1933, millions of Americans celebrated as President Franklin D. Roosevelt repealed Prohibition. The move was seen as a morale booster during the Great Depression. Fast forward to today, and the shadow of prohibition seems to linger once more, particularly with the recent remarks from outgoing US Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy. Dr. Murthy… Read More »
Wine is navigating a tumultuous landscape, marked by challenges such as climate change, increasing production costs, regulatory burdens, and a decline in consumption driven by changing lifestyles. Despite this, the global market for wine remains robust; Mintel estimates that the UK wine market alone was valued at nearly £15 billion in 2024, revealing that consumers… Read More »
Toklas, a modern-Mediterranean restaurant near Somerset House in London, recently hosted its first wine dinner to showcase its new wine list, curated over 18 months by Head of Beverages Agustina Basilico and consultant Heidi Mäkinen, a Finnish master of wine. The focus was to offer unique and high-quality wines while promoting sustainable practices and minimizing… Read More »
The 2004 Champagne vintage, initially overlooked, has proven to be a remarkable collection of wines that embody finesse and purity over power and intensity. As these wines reach maturity, a tasting conducted by experts Essi Avellan MW, Simon Field MW, and Joanna Simon reveals that the 2004 vintage deserves recognition for its surprising elegance and… Read More »
The UK-based urban winery Renegade, located in East London, has initiated a fundraising effort aimed at securing £800,000 to elevate its operations. Founder Warwick Smith revealed that discussions with potential investors have begun, with some commitments already made toward this new funding round. Since its inception over eight years ago, Renegade expanded in 2021 by… Read More »
Vergelegen is a significant wine estate located in Somerset West, South Africa, which has recently undergone a transformation aimed at revitalizing its potential. The estate spans 3,200 hectares and offers stunning views of the Hottentots Holland mountain range and Cape Point. Established in 1700, it is home to a national monument, a stand of camphor… Read More »
Champagne producers reported a troubling 9.2% decline in sales for 2024, reflecting a "gloomy political and economic context." In the domestic market, sales fell by 7.2%, hitting a record low of 118.2 million bottles—the weakest performance since 1985. Export numbers were even more challenging, decreasing by 10.8% to 153.2 million bottles, marking the lowest demand… Read More »
Gérard Bertrand: Tales from the Temple Amid the pyramids at Clos du Temple winery, known for producing one of the world’s most expensive rosés, Margaret Rand interviews Gérard Bertrand, exploring themes of family, rugby, and his relentless pursuit of perfection. When visiting Bertrand’s winery, one might be struck by the peculiar mix of high culture… Read More »