We begin the year with a detailed analysis of the challenging 2024 vintage in Burgundy, along with a nostalgic visit to Napa’s legendary Heitz Cellar. Our Regional Editors have also curated wine highlights from 2025. For those opting for a dry or moderate January, we explore the growing trend of shrub-based, alcohol-free beverages and suggest food pairings for tea.
In this issue, we embrace the increasing interest in non-alcoholic options. Many wine enthusiasts are searching for beverages that offer a similar experience to wine, but as Majken Bech-Bailey, a pioneer in this market, explains, non-alcoholic alternatives will not mimic the taste of wine due to the absence of alcohol. Accepting this change is crucial, as these offerings can provide complexity in their own unique way, alongside the familiar ritual of serving.
This month we also feature a refresh in design and content, including a new back-page interview. Feedback is welcomed at editor@decanter.com.
In My Glass This Month
While I often find many non-alcoholic wines overly fruity or sweet, I’ve become a fan of Saicho’s Hojicha sparkling tea. With its sophisticated presentation and a savory profile that marries nutty and smoky notes, it proves to be just as fulfilling as any non-wine food pairing.
In Focus
- Wines of the Year 2025: A roundup of the year’s highlights from our Regional Editors.
- Burgundy 2024: A challenging vintage, yet Charles Curtis MW has identified some outstanding selections within the limited production.
- Heitz Cellar: Clive Pursehouse and Jonathan Cristaldi share insights from a notable tasting at this Napa pioneer.
- Under the Radar: Dr Edge: Meet a music-loving maverick winemaker from Tasmania, Cassandra Charlick.
- An Unorthodox Pairing: Marianna Hunt explores the rising trend of pairing running with wine.
- Bolgheri Latest Release: James Button discusses the 2022 vintage and other developments.
Spirits
- Distilled: Updates on spirits and cocktails.
- Shrubs Take Root: Chris Losh highlights the emerging trend of zero-alcohol drinks.
Food & Travel
- What to Pair with Tea: Fiona Beckett curates a selection of delightful matches.
- The World’s Best Wine Spas: Alicia Miller guides you to luxurious destinations for rejuvenation and relaxation.
Learning
- Books and More: Sophie Thorpe reviews a new Bordeaux series.
- Wine Wisdom: Expert tips to enhance your wine journey.
Buying Guide
- Panel Tasting: Cool-Climate Australian Chardonnay: A look at terroir in this region’s cooler climates.
- Southeastern European Indigenous Reds: Discover higher quality wines from lesser-known grapes.
- Expert’s Choice: Lisboa: Ines Salpico presents 18 exceptional wines from this exciting Portuguese area.
- Weekday Wines: 25 top choices priced at £30 or under.
- Weekend Wines: Seven exceptional picks between £30-£60.
- DWWA 2025: Featuring 14 award-winning Shiraz selections from Australia.
Collecting & Investing
- Marketwatch: Latest auction news and insights into new releases.
Regulars
- Contributions from multiple authors, covering the latest from the wine industry. Notable features include Andrew Jefford’s insights and a guest column exploring a return to familiar wines.
Stay tuned for exciting updates and offerings in the world of wine!