Category Archives: Blog

South America is traditionally celebrated for its robust red wines, particularly Argentina’s Malbec, Chile’s Cabernet Sauvignon, and Uruguay’s Tannat. However, change is underway as the continent revitalizes its fine white wine production, showcasing an increasingly diverse array of grape varieties, terroirs, and styles across Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. A New Focus on Premium Whites Sebastián… Read More »

There’s natural wine, and then there’s exceptional natural wine, as I experienced during my visit to Viñedos Herrera Alvarado with Carolina Alvarado and Arturo Herrera. Nestled in the picturesque Marga Marga Valley near Quilpué, Chile, this vineyard embraces a philosophy deeply rooted in the local ecosystem. Originally part of the Casablanca Valley, this vineyard has… Read More »

Falernian Wine: A Journey Through Time Falernian wine, held in high esteem by emperors and senators in ancient Rome for its exceptional quality and aging potential, has recently experienced a revival thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Avallone family. Historically significant and nearly forgotten for two millennia, this legendary wine from Campania is now… Read More »

Hugh Johnson expresses his solidarity with courageous English wine growers who tackle the challenging weather conditions in the region. He highlights that the English wine category that has garnered the most acclaim to date is sparkling wine, which is often on the pricier side. Despite the success of English sparkling wines, Johnson notes that still… Read More »

Tasting Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain NV Recently, I tried Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain NV in the lounge while heading to Portugal and found it quite enjoyable. The brand was part of Artémis, a prominent luxury wine group, until its acquisition by Terroirs et Vignerons de Champagne (TEVC), the largest cooperative group in Champagne, in 2023.… Read More »

Alvaro Espinoza and his wife, Marina, recently returned from Costa Rica when I had the pleasure of visiting their stunning Antiyal farm, El Escorial, in the Alto Maipo region of Chile, just an hour’s drive from Santiago. Alvaro is a pivotal figure in the establishment of organic and biodynamic farming practices in Chile, with Antiyal… Read More »

Peter Hall (1943–2025): A Wine Friendship Andrew Jefford reflects on a long-standing friendship with Peter Hall, a pioneering figure in English winemaking, and the impact of his work at Breaky Bottom in Sussex. The relationship began on October 1, 1989, a still, misty day that marked the first of countless visits to Hall’s enchanting farm,… Read More »

The innovative wine preservation system from Coravin, launched in 2013, has significantly impacted wine hospitality. Over the past decade, Coravin has expanded its product line, allowing restaurants and bars to enhance their wine-by-the-glass offerings without committing to full bottles. This development has encouraged a broader selection of wines for consumers. In response to the growing… Read More »

Spain’s vibrant wine scene has recently garnered attention with several notable events and new ventures, particularly highlighting the intersection of culture and gastronomy. One of the most exciting developments is the five-star boutique hotel, Finca Banyols, set to open in Alaró, Mallorca, in late 2025. This luxurious establishment, situated in the UNESCO-listed Tramuntana mountains, will… Read More »

Christian Scarica, a prominent sommelier and wine director at Affinatore, shares his journey in the world of fine wine, beginning at the young age of 17 in his family’s restaurant. With encouragement from his father, Scarica learned the art of selling and serving wine, which piqued his interest in pursuing a career as a sommelier.… Read More »