Bordeaux estates are currently grappling with the timing of their wine blending processes, particularly in relation to the en primeur system. Historically, the blend of Bordeaux wines, particularly from the Médoc, has evolved significantly, reflecting changes in grape composition and production techniques since as far back as 1855. The key to quality wine has always… Read More »
Prices for the Bordeaux 2024 en primeur wines have significantly decreased, marking a notable shift in the market. Esteemed estates like Lafite Rothschild, Angélus, and Cheval Blanc have slashed their prices by approximately 30% compared to last year. This adjustment brings their wines back to price points not seen in over a decade. Farr Vintners… Read More »
The Mornington Peninsula, located just south of Melbourne, has earned its status as Australia’s premier region for Pinot Noir, alongside its notable Chardonnay productions. Thanks to its narrow coastal strip not more than 7 km away from the calming effects of the Bass Strait, the area’s cool maritime climate plays a crucial role in creating… Read More »
Kleine Zalze Heritage Vineyards Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2023 – A Remarkable Find I’ve come across an impressive wine: the Kleine Zalze Heritage Vineyards Old Vine Chenin Blanc 2023, which hails from South Africa. This wine is sourced from Chenin vineyards that are over 35 years old, a part of the Old Vine Project, and… Read More »
In the Southern Rhône region, Tavel has distinguished itself as a unique appellation dedicated entirely to rosé. While it may appear as a quaint village of 1,700 residents just north of Avignon, Tavel’s winemaking history stretches back to Roman times, claiming connections to notable figures such as Pope Innocent VI, who reportedly requested lighter wines… Read More »
The Mayacamas Chardonnay 2023 from Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley, California has been highlighted for its exceptional quality. With an alcohol content of 13.5%, this wine presents a fine, restrained nose showcasing focused notes of pear and citrus, accompanied by a hint of exotic pineapple. On the palate, it offers a direct and fresh profile, characterized… Read More »
The latest preliminary data released by the International Organisation for Vine & Wine (OIV) reveals that while global wine consumption has decreased, the United States remains the top consumer by volume. However, when it comes to per capita consumption, Portugal leads significantly. Top 10 Countries by Total Wine Consumption (in hectolitres, mhl) United States: 33.3mhl… Read More »
Julien Desplans, the winemaker at Maison Verget, along with Sophie Guffens, showcased the 2023 releases from the esteemed négociant arm of Jean-Marie Guffens’ Guffens-Heynen domaine, which is located in Sologny, Mâconnais. Maison Verget has shifted its focus to exclusively using fruit from Mâconnais due to difficulties sourcing desired grapes from higher-profile regions. All their wines… Read More »
Just over a decade into the Sonoma County Barrel Auction (SoCoBA), this year showcased a dynamic range of wines, marking its evolution into a notable event for the region. The 11th edition was held on May 1-2, bringing together around 300 participants, including vintners, trade professionals, media, and for the first time, select customers. The… Read More »
While the new manifesto from the Slow Wine Coalition has its merits, it also has a critical flaw according to Nick Ryan. The Slow Wine Coalition, an offshoot of the broader Slow Food Movement, recently introduced a Slow Food Manifesto for Good, Clean and Fair Wine. Although it contains sensible suggestions, its first major stipulation… Read More »