Sandridge Barton is the new name for a renowned winery in Devon, formerly known as Sharpham, and is now making waves in the English wine scene. My affinity for this establishment dates back to 1998, when I first visited while camping nearby. It was my introduction to serious wine, guided by winemaker Duncan Schwab, who… Read More »
French wine is currently experiencing a significant crisis, described by industry leaders as one of the most serious in its history. This distressing situation was brought to light during a recent meeting with France’s agriculture minister, Annie Genevard. The challenges faced by winemakers stem from a combination of structural and cyclical issues. Producers are currently… Read More »
2018 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame: A Celebration of Champagne The launch of the 2018 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame took place in the elegant yet stern setting of the Galerie de Minéralogie et de Géologie in Paris. This striking location, situated on Rue du Buffon near the Jardin des Plantes, served as an intriguing… Read More »
The Palomar restaurant in Soho, London, is known for its exceptional cuisine and an impressive wine selection. As part of the Studio Paskin hospitality group, which also includes venues like the Barbary in Notting Hill and the Mulwray, The Palomar offers a relaxed atmosphere complemented by a creative menu inspired by southern Spanish, North African,… Read More »
Behind the scenes at Krug Anne Krebiehl MW takes us on an immersive journey into the intricate winemaking process at Krug, specifically focusing on the winery’s celebrated single-vineyard Chardonnay, Clos du Mesnil. Each spring, a select group of international guests is invited to Krug’s estate to engage with chef de cave Julie Cavil and the… Read More »
Dão White Wines: A Tasting Review of Encruzado-Based Selections A recent tasting event focused on the diverse styles of Encruzado, a prominent grape variety in Dão, Portugal, produced a variety of remarkable dry white wines. The reviews covered vintages from top producers, highlighting their distinct characteristics. Caminhos Cruzados Reserva Encruzado 2022 Rating: 92 Notes: Exhibits… Read More »
Essex, traditionally recognized more for its reality television scene than for fine wines, is starting to make a name for itself in the wine industry. Two Burgundy vintners are set to swap their Côte d’Or vineyards for the Crouch Valley in Essex to venture into producing English still wines. Local producer Danbury Ridge, already making… Read More »
Portugal’s wine landscape showcases remarkable diversity, exemplified by the evolving Dão region. This area has recently gained recognition for producing some of the country’s most intriguing wines. The Minho region in the north is renowned for its Vinho Verde. Once characterized by light and fizzy whites with some sweetness, it now boasts serious dry whites… Read More »
The Dão region in Portugal, long celebrated for its robust red wines, is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with its white wines—particularly those made from the indigenous grape Encruzado—gaining significant recognition. Traditionally overshadowed by varietals like Port and the hearty reds of the Douro Valley, the potential of Dão’s whites is being unveiled, demonstrating the region’s… Read More »
UK sparkling wines have recently gained recognition at the Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2025, showcasing their quality and global prowess. According to trade body WineGB, sales of UK sparkling wines surged by 187% from 2018 to 2023, reaching 6.2 million bottles. The increased interest also resonates with high-profile fans, including members of the Royal… Read More »