Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant, has been instrumental in elevating the Finger Lakes as a notable region for sparkling wine production in North America. The Finger Lakes boasts a history with sparkling wine dating back to 1867 when Hammondsport’s Pleasant Valley Wine Co earned accolades at the Exposition Universelle in Paris for its sparkling… Read More »
Iago Garrido established Fazenda Augalevada in 2008, acquiring 4 hectares of neglected terraces in the northern region of Ribeiro, which he has since transformed and cultivates using biodynamic practices. Located in the Rioboó zone, known for its former reputation for red wines, Augalevada has begun to shine with remarkable offerings. During a tasting at the… Read More »
When exploring quality wines, the mountainous Navarra region in Spain deserves a spotlight. Known for its unique character, Navarra produces exceptional wines, particularly Garnacha, showcasing a distinctive mountain influence that many find exceptional and often affordable. Navarra’s identity as a wine region is significant, especially as it borders Rioja, a dominant player in Spanish wine… Read More »
February heralds the return of major wine fairs, with Wine Paris continually expanding its presence in the industry. The event, which began back in 2017 as "Vino Vision," started modestly, aimed predominantly at the French market. At that time, larger initiatives like ProWein were already establishing themselves as the predominant trade fairs, attracting thousands of… Read More »
Eulogio Pomares is recognized for producing exceptional wines in Rías Baixas, leveraging both the family-run Zarate label and his own cellar. In February 2026, during a tasting session at Simplesmente Vinho in Porto, I had the opportunity to sample several of his creations alongside Eulogio and Rebeca. Wine Reviews Zarate Albariño 2025A standout offering, this… Read More »
On the third Monday of November, I joked with my friend Pete Fraser, the winemaker behind Yangarra, that he owed me a lifelong gratitude for my three-hour journey to taste 15 vintages of his High Sands Grenache. Little did I know that just ten days later, he would be gone. That tasting turned out to… Read More »
Mas de Daumas Gassac is renowned for its red wines, but it also produces intriguing white varieties, with their Blanc de Raisins Blanc being a standout. Two vintages from this label, separated by eight years, showcase the evolution and quality of this wine. Mas de Daumas Gassac Blanc de Raisins Blanc 2024 displays a blend… Read More »
The 1989 vintage was a pivotal moment for Châteauneuf-du-Pape, marking a shift from longstanding traditions to modern winemaking styles. This turning point saw the introduction of the Cuvée Spéciale, which aimed to encapsulate the essence of the exceptional terroir found in the region. Traditionally, estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape produced a single red and sometimes a white… Read More »
Four of us gathered at The Drapers Arms for an evening of wine tasting, featuring the elegant Josephinenhütte wine glasses. We enjoyed four remarkable wines, each showcasing unique characteristics and flavors. Momento Chenin Blanc Verdelho 2021, Western Cape, South Africa Alcohol: 13% This wine is a blend of 63% Chenin and 37% Verdelho, matured in… Read More »
Tocai Friulano, known simply as Friulano, is not the most prevalent grape variety in the Collio region of northeast Italy, having been surpassed by Pinot Grigio in cultivation. Despite accounting for only 15% of the total grape area, Friulano remains the most commonly planted variety among producers in the area. This grape, however, faces recognition… Read More »