On my recent visit to Italy’s stunning Franciacorta region, known for its high-quality sparkling wines, I sensed a palpable frustration among local winemakers. Despite the exceptional quality of their wines, they struggle with global recognition, primarily due to the fact that only 12% of their production is exported.
The low export rate is disheartening, especially for those wines that compare favorably in price and quality with well-known sparkling options like Champagne. For wine enthusiasts scanning unfamiliar brands at a similar price point, having a reputable score from a trusted source can help overcome hesitation in trying these wines.
While many consumers appreciate wine scoring, some judges express concerns about reducing the complexity of wine to a simple number. They argue that it oversimplifies the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas that make each bottle unique. In this edition of Decanter, we explore this divide, encouraging readers to share their thoughts on the role and value of scoring in the wine-buying process.
In this issue
- Local Grapes: Discover Italy’s revived indigenous grape varieties with insights from Raffaele Mosca.
- Chianti Exploration: Michelle Cherutti-Kowal MW offers 20 top picks from Chianti beyond its Classico designation.
- SuperTuscan Insights: Michaela Morris tracks the evolution of the lesser-known Luce wine.
- Prosecco Mission: Jason Millar interviews Diego Tomasi on the efforts to elevate Prosecco Superiore.
- Shifts in Piedmont: David Way discusses the rising popularity of white grapes in northern Italy.
- The Scoring Debate: Cassandra Charlick delves into what wine critics really think about scoring wines.
- Champagne Profile: Tom Hewson takes us to the Côte des Bar, a distinct area of Champagne.
- Young South African Winemakers: Malu Lambert introduces six promising talents.
Additional Features
- Spirits News: Explore the rise of rosé tequila and other spirit trends.
- Food Pairing Tips: Fiona Beckett shares pairings for vibrant Mexican cuisine.
- Travel Guides: Recommendations on fine dining wineries in Italy and top wine spots in Verona.
- Buying Guides: Editors highlight recent tastings and feature recommendations for both weekday and weekend wines.
- Market Insights: Updates on auction news and market trends.
For further exploration of these topics, consider subscribing to Decanter to gain deeper access to wine reviews, exclusive articles, and more comprehensive learning resources.