To commemorate the 80th anniversary of Kumeu River estate, Paul Brajkovich organized a tasting event in London, showcasing their estate and single-vineyard Chardonnays. The Brajkovich family is a significant player in New Zealand’s wine industry. Their journey began in 1944 when Mick and Katé Brajkovich, Croatian immigrants, purchased a small piece of land in Kumeu,… Read More »
Thomas Bachelder stands among Canada’s top winemakers, focusing on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Gamay through a selection of terroir-driven releases. Known for his extensive work within the Niagara region, Thomas works exclusively with local growers, employing sensitive farming practices that align with the natural variability of each season. In a lengthy tasting session at his… Read More »
Ricasoli is recognized as a leading producer of Chianti Classico, and their 2022 vintage exemplifies the modern style of the region. The Ricasoli Brolio Chianti Classico 2022 showcases an alcohol content of 13.5%. It is characterized by its fruity, aromatic, and pure essence, offering delightful notes of sweet cherry and raspberry complemented by subtle spicy… Read More »
André Drappier, the founder of the cherished family-owned Champagne house located in the Côte des Bar, passed away on March 5, 2025, at the age of 99. In the wake of his death, his son Michel, who has led the house since André’s retirement, reflected on his father’s life and contributions. The funeral service, held… Read More »
In 1956, as sharecropping was being phased out, the De Marchi family from Piedmont acquired two estates in San Donato, which they merged to create Isole e Olena. Paolo de Marchi emerged as a pivotal figure in the Chianti Classico region, which had previously focused on quantity over quality. Recognizing the need for viticultural reform,… Read More »
An unforgettable dinner at The Connaught Hotel in London featured a selection of mature vintages from the prestigious Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, paired with special dishes crafted by chef Hélène Darroze. Michael Schuster describes it as one of the most memorable culinary experiences of his career. The event, held on December 11, 2024, was inspired… Read More »
Château Léoville Barton has officially launched its 2024 vintage as part of a significant en primeur week, with several prominent Left Bank producers, including the esteemed Mouton Rothschild, also slated to unveil their new offerings. Released at €48 per bottle ex-négociant, Léoville Barton 2024 is approximately priced at £577 per 12-bottle case in bond (IB)… Read More »
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 »