My initial experience in southern Italy began on an awkward note while flying from Rome to Palermo, Sicily. The air conditioning failed mid-flight, and I awoke disoriented and sweat-drenched. Upon landing, I found myself in a baggage area under renovation, where locals exploited the temporary structure, crawling outside to smoke in the sweltering heat. Palermo… Read More »
French scientist Paul Truel invented Marselan in 1961 by crossing Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache in a lab, aiming to develop a grape that thrived in the warm conditions of the Languedoc region. Initially, Marselan found some success in this area but faced challenges due to its small grape size leading to lower yields, making it… Read More »
Australian Chardonnay is thriving, particularly in the Margaret River region, which is recognized for producing some of the finest examples of this grape variety. The Gingin clone flourishes here, yielding wines that are rich, generous, and exhibit remarkable elegance and longevity. Experts like Jancis Robinson MW have even noted the allure of Western Australian Chardonnays… Read More »
Tasmania, Australia’s smallest state, boasts an impressive array of microclimates and terroirs perfect for wine production, particularly Chardonnay. Notable producers, such as Dawson James, Decades, Freycinet, Stargazer, Tolpuddle, and Holyman, are reimagining what Tasmanian Chardonnay can offer. Dawson James Founded by veteran winemakers Peter Dawson and Tim James, Dawson James is a boutique endeavor focused… Read More »
Roger Taylor, the drummer of Queen, has launched a new rosé wine called Queen Côtes de Provence Rosé Cuvée Rock n’ Roll 2025, set to hit stores in the UK on May 5th. The wine, a blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Cinsault, reflects Taylor’s vision of creating something that embodies joy and togetherness. In… Read More »
Buying wine en primeur has two main advantages. First, if the wine is highly sought after, purchasing it at this stage ensures you secure your allocation. However, for most Bordeaux wines—the primary wines sold this way—this is not typically the case. The second potential benefit arises when the release price is appealing, which may allow… Read More »
Australian Chardonnay has gained international recognition, particularly from the Mornington Peninsula, owing to its unique coastal climate which endows the wines with natural acidity and elegance. The region produces pristine expressions of Chardonnay, showcasing citrus, stone fruits, and melons. Main Ridge Winery was a pioneer in the area, founded in 1975 by Nat and Rosalie… Read More »
The Yarra Valley, a prominent region in Australia, is celebrated for producing some of the country’s finest Chardonnays. The diversity in soil and microclimates, compounded by innovative winemaking techniques, provides an array of unique wines. The standout characteristics of Yarra Valley Chardonnays include their texture, focus, and intense yet elegant flavors, often highlighted by stone-fruit… Read More »
Dani Giganto Arias is an acclaimed head sommelier and wine director at Muna, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Bierzo, northwestern Spain. He began his journey in the wine world at just 16 years old while working at his father’s restaurant in León. His passion for wine deepened through mentorship from industry professionals, notably José María Prieto… Read More »
During my workday, I sometimes find myself procrastinating and daydreaming, often about wine. At the end of a long day spent writing about wines, nothing relaxes me more than enjoying a glass of my favorite selections at home. Each wine I choose is tailored to its audience, primarily my wife, for whom I cook most… Read More »