Back in 1988, American couple Stuart and Sandy Moss revolutionized the English wine industry. At the time, the UK wine scene was vastly different, with around 800 hectares of vines primarily comprising early-ripening Germanic varieties like Bacchus and Seyval Blanc. It had a more hobbyist feel to it. The Mosses dared to defy conventional wisdom… Read More »
Beaujolais renouvelé In her exploration of the Beaujolais wine region, Natasha Hughes, author of a new book dedicated to its wines, articulates the factors behind the renewed appreciation for this once-derided area. During a tasting at the renowned Château du Moulin-à-Vent in May 2022, Hughes tasted several vintages that showcased Beaujolais’ remarkable capacity for producing… Read More »
Let’s start with a shared love for wine. While many consider wine a harmless pleasure, recent discussions have raised concerns about its potential risks, prompting the question: Should we panic, surrender, or simply reassess our approach? The World Health Organization asserts that there is "no safe level" of alcohol consumption, indicating that even a sip… Read More »
Following the 2022 merger of Bouchard Père & Fils with Artémis Domaines, significant changes are underway in the Burgundy wine scene. As part of a structural division, Bouchard has established a new entity called Domaine des Cabottes, set to feature the finest cuvées from its portfolio. The first wines from this domain will be labeled… Read More »
A stunning Napa Valley estate, featuring nearly 2.7 hectares (6.6 acres) of Cabernet Sauvignon vines and a spacious wine cellar, has recently been sold for approximately $13.5 million. This property, located close to downtown Calistoga and nestled among the rolling hills with stunning views of Mt. St. Helena, was initially listed at $13.475 million. The… Read More »
It costs a significant amount of money to produce wine, especially when done correctly. The primary issue lies in the fact that winemakers only have one harvest per year. This means they require large wineries equipped with expensive technology, much of which is only utilized for a few weeks annually. In contrast, beer manufacturers can… Read More »
To be labeled a "cult wine" is a tantalizing pursuit, characterized by the quest for that elusive, unparalleled beverage. Wine producers equipped with expert enologists navigate mythical realms in search of this extraordinary wine, creating a narrative filled with intrigue and excitement. Some producers chase after creatures of legend, while others focus on a more… Read More »
The Cité du Vin in Bordeaux and Sotheby’s France have announced their third online charity auction, running from October 7 to October 27, aimed at supporting the Foundation for Wine Culture and Civilisations. This auction features 64 lots, with over 90% offering immersive experiences at some of the world’s top wine estates, blending rare bottles… Read More »
Klein Constantia, a historical South African wine estate, recently celebrated its 340th anniversary in London with a special tasting and lunch, led by winemaker Matt Day. Renowned for its iconic Vin de Constance, the estate has a storied past marked by significant figures like Frederick the Great and Thomas Jefferson, but this event focused more… Read More »
I just returned from the Struma Valley in southern Bulgaria, where I attended the grand opening of Aya Estate’s new winery. This impressive establishment features beautifully designed architecture that blends harmoniously with the stunning landscape nearby. Surrounding the historic town of Melnik, the area boasts scenic views, particularly as you drive south from Sofia through… Read More »