Decanter’s February 2026 issue centers on the wines of Spain, exploring regions from Priorat to Rías Baixas, and shines a light on Oregon and Sonoma’s Pinot Noir rivalry. It also delves into Koshu, a unique varietal from Japan’s Yamanashi region.
In the Editor’s Glass
Amy Wislocki, the magazine editor, shares her reflections on the Viura grape, also known as Macabeo. In her tasting of 86 predominantly Viura wines, she emphasizes the grape’s unexpected complexity and potential for excellence when approached with an open mind. This new perspective challenges the long-held view of the grape as just a neutral variety and reveals a spectrum of styles influenced by oak and aging.
At a recent celebration for her 25-year tenure at Decanter, Wislocki enjoyed a remarkable Pierro Chardonnay 2023, showcasing the best of Margaret River’s cool-climate terroir.
Issue Highlights
- Wine Regions of Spain: Introduction to lesser-known neighboring wine regions to boost exploration beyond popular areas.
- Rías Baixas Albariños: A curated list of 17 standout Albariños by Amaya Cervera, alongside some unique surprises.
- Koshu Winemaking: Montserrat Molina forges a narrative of a pharmacist turned winemaker in Jerez.
- Vintage Preview: Insights into Rhône 2024 from Matt Walls’ tastings.
- Yamanashi Exploration: A focus on Japan’s leading region for Koshu wines.
Buying Guide
- Top Picks: The Decanter team rounds up excellent wines for every budget, including weekday selections priced under £30 and weekend splurges between £30-£60.
- Expert Tastings: A detailed comparison of Priorat vintages from 2021 and 2022, alongside a tasting of Spanish Viura wines, all aiming to help readers enhance their wine journey.
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