Monthly Archives: April 2025

Discovering Krone Assmannshausen: A Treasure Trove of Germany’s Finest Spätburgunders

Weingut Krone Assmannshausen is a specialized winery located in Rheingau, renowned for its exceptional Spätburgunder, or Pinot Noir. The estate comprises a 3.7-hectare vineyard that was formerly part of a hotel, characterized by its distinct violet slate soils. Since 2007, the winery has been owned by Weingüter Wegeler. Notable Wines from Krone Assmannshausen: Spätburgunder Gutswein… Read More »

Unearthing the Secrets: A Deep Dive into Chalk Downland Ecosystems

In a reflective piece first published in WFW55 back in 2017, Andrew Jefford recounts his evolving relationship with English sparkling wine, notably inspired by the Wiston Estate 2010 Blanc de Blancs. He emphasizes the importance of moments and details in life, drawing parallels with nature’s subtle changes. Jefford recalls his first visit to an English… Read More »

Exploring American Excellence: US Wineries Shine at DFWE New York

The Decanter Fine Wine Encounter (DFWE) returns to New York on Saturday, June 7, showcasing some of the most prestigious producers in the American wine scene. Attendees can look forward to an impressive selection of wineries from across the United States that exhibit the quality, diversity, and innovation that defines contemporary American fine wine. Major… Read More »

Uncovering the Missing Link: The Journey to the First Fizz

When discussing the origins of sparkling wine, we can only pinpoint the first recorded instance rather than what might have occurred before. This evidence, however, needs further interpretation to ascertain whether its effervescence was intentional. The earliest recorded sparkling wine often cited is mentioned in the Bible. In the King James Bible (1611), passages in… Read More »

Exploring Polish Wine: A Journey Through Winnica Moderna

Winnica Moderna is located in Poland’s Lower Silesian region, known for its warmer climate, making it an ideal spot for viticulture. The vineyards are nestled in the scenic Trzebnickie Hills, where owner Nestor Kościański showcases a range of wines that demonstrate both creativity and quality. One of the standout offerings is the Winnica Moderna Pet… Read More »

Global Wine Consumption Hits Six-Decade Low Amid Rising Inflation Concerns

Global wine consumption hit its lowest point in over six decades, declining by 3.3% last year, according to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). The total consumption dropped to 214 million hectoliters in 2024, marking the third consecutive year of decline. The downturn is primarily attributed to inflation impacting consumers’ purchasing power, alongside… Read More »

Umathum: Discovering the Exceptional Wines of Austria’s Burgenland Region

Umathum is located in Austria’s Burgenland region, specifically on the east side of Lake Neusiedlersee, and has additional vineyard sites on nearby hills. Approximately 20 years ago, they expanded their vineyard holdings by acquiring properties on Leithaberg from a count whose family has been farming there since 1214. The estate spans 30 hectares, with 85%… Read More »

An Insightful Interview with Elaine Chukan Brown: Exploring Her New Book “The Wines of California

Elaine Chukan Brown’s recently published book, The Wines of California, presents a new perspective on California’s extensive vinous history. In an interview with Decanter’s Ana Carolina Quintela, the author shared insights about the book’s inspiration, its unique focus, and the evolution of the California wine industry. Born in a Native Alaskan fishing village, Chukan Brown,… Read More »

Elevate Your Palate: Exploring Prestige Cuvée Rosé with Marina Olsson

Tasting Prestige Cuvée Rosé with Marina Olsson Rosé Champagne has historically contended with a perception of frivolity, but recent years have revealed a profound transformation in its esteem. Notably, renowned house Bollinger only offered a Non-Vintage Cuvée starting in 2008, long after the dismissal of its matriarch’s fondness for the style. Today, however, the delicate… Read More »