Monthly Archives: February 2025

The current landscape of the wine industry mirrors the historical paths of other agricultural sectors, notably coffee. Despite the world trending towards small-batch, high-quality wine production reminiscent of the artisanal coffee movement, challenges persist, particularly from regulatory frameworks and market dynamics. Drawing parallels from coffee, which faced tumultuous changes during the 1800s—with many small producers… Read More »

I’m currently on a Cathay Pacific flight to Hong Kong, experiencing the novelty of posting mid-air. While I typically shy away from in-flight internet, the complimentary service tempted me this time. The wine selection is surprisingly decent, featuring a section titled "Discovery Wines," showcasing Chinese wines. Of the three options offered, I opted for one… Read More »

London’s esteemed wine merchant, Philglas & Swiggot, has announced its impending closure due to "increasingly challenging trading conditions and the additional complexities of Brexit." The business, a fixture in the UK’s independent wine scene since 1991, is set to shutter its doors permanently on March 16. Founded by Mike and Karen Rogers in Battersea, Philglas… Read More »

We arrived at the Cognac train station and boarded a boat along the River Charente, where we were greeted by the sight of stone buildings, some darkened by a unique fungus, Torula compniacensis. Our small group of wine writers from the UK and Scandinavia was on a journey to discover the artistry behind Cognac, located… Read More »

Next up was a visit to Domaine des Hauts Châssis for a tasting with Raphaël Faugier. The winery, established by his father in 2003, marked its first vintage that year and is rooted in a six-generation family farming tradition. Originally, the farm produced apricots and peaches and raised sheep and cows before focusing on vines.… Read More »

As Matt Walls explores nearly four decades of Château de Beaucastel’s Roussanne Vieilles Vignes, he experiences a remarkable journey through wine. He is joined by father and son duo, François and César Perrin, at this iconic estate, known for its innovative winemaking. The family has a history of breaking from tradition; they embraced organic farming… Read More »

A remarkable vertical tasting was held to celebrate the 175th anniversary of Pol Roger, a family-owned Champagne house, and the completion of its new cellars in Epernay. Laurent d’Harcourt, the président du directoire, recently honored the legacy of the company, emphasizing the continuity that has allowed Pol Roger to thrive since its founding in 1849.… Read More »

Four new Masters of Wine (MW) have been officially recognized in February 2025, an announcement that celebrates the latest successful candidates who have completed the rigorous Masters of Wine examination process. This prestigious qualification places them among a select group worldwide, bringing the total number of MWs to 425. The newly inducted Masters include Amanda… Read More »

Kent, in southeast England, once thrived with hop fields and various orchards, famed for its beautiful fruit blossoms. Nicholas Hall, the owner of Herbert Hall, a sparkling wine producer, reminisces about a time when spring brought tourists to view the blossoms of apples, pears, and cherries. However, the landscape has since changed significantly, with fewer… Read More »

My fascination with Montefalco began in 1990 during a wine competition in Italy, where I first encountered the Sagrantino grape, a local variety that seemed both formidable and intriguing. The event’s blend of wine tasting and a lingerie show led me to experience Sagrantino—its vigorous flavors and dense character was unlike anything I had tasted… Read More »