It costs a significant amount of money to produce wine, especially when done correctly. The primary issue lies in the fact that winemakers only have one harvest per year. This means they require large wineries equipped with expensive technology, much of which is only utilized for a few weeks annually. In contrast, beer manufacturers can… Read More »
To be labeled a "cult wine" is a tantalizing pursuit, characterized by the quest for that elusive, unparalleled beverage. Wine producers equipped with expert enologists navigate mythical realms in search of this extraordinary wine, creating a narrative filled with intrigue and excitement. Some producers chase after creatures of legend, while others focus on a more… Read More »
The Cité du Vin in Bordeaux and Sotheby’s France have announced their third online charity auction, running from October 7 to October 27, aimed at supporting the Foundation for Wine Culture and Civilisations. This auction features 64 lots, with over 90% offering immersive experiences at some of the world’s top wine estates, blending rare bottles… Read More »
Klein Constantia, a historical South African wine estate, recently celebrated its 340th anniversary in London with a special tasting and lunch, led by winemaker Matt Day. Renowned for its iconic Vin de Constance, the estate has a storied past marked by significant figures like Frederick the Great and Thomas Jefferson, but this event focused more… Read More »
I just returned from the Struma Valley in southern Bulgaria, where I attended the grand opening of Aya Estate’s new winery. This impressive establishment features beautifully designed architecture that blends harmoniously with the stunning landscape nearby. Surrounding the historic town of Melnik, the area boasts scenic views, particularly as you drive south from Sofia through… Read More »
Louis Roederer 2025 releases: Children of chalk Simon Field MW shares his admiration for fine wine as he attends the Louis Roederer 2025 launches in two major cities. The event, led by chef de cave Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, showcases new additions to the Roederer collection, including the latest Collection, Cristal, and Coteaux Champenois, alongside a selection… Read More »
In January 2025, renowned Italian chef Giorgio Locatelli unexpectedly shut down his London restaurant, Locanda Locatelli, after 23 years of operation. The closure was so sudden that it left many patrons with reservations disappointed, as they were informed the restaurant could no longer serve them. Reports suggest that ongoing discussions about rent culminated in a… Read More »
With climate change having a significant impact on wine production, the alcohol content in wines has noticeably increased over the past several decades. This narrative contrasts the alcohol levels of iconic wines from past decades with those of today, highlighting a stark evolution influenced by various factors. Historical Comparison of Alcohol Levels Taking two notable… Read More »
New Zealand is a relative newcomer in the significant wine-producing landscape, gaining international recognition primarily in the mid-1980s. Despite the earliest vines being planted in 1819 and the establishment of the oldest winery, Mission Estate, in 1851, New Zealand had not been acknowledged in iconic wine references until more recently. The modern winemaking story in… Read More »
With climate change impacting vineyard conditions, alcohol levels in wine have increased significantly over the past fifty years, leading to a need for reevaluation by both winemakers and consumers regarding what these changes mean for the wine experience. Rising Alcohol Levels A comparison of two iconic vintages showcases this trend vividly: Château Latour and Penfolds… Read More »