In a comprehensive review, Michael Schuster explores the rising profile of Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay, previously overshadowed by the region’s reputation for red wines. This narrative focuses on a collection compiled by Cameron Douglas MS, New Zealand’s first Master Sommelier, highlighting the quality of wines from the 2019 vintage. Beginning in 2010, the Gimblett Gravels Association… Read More »

Therianthropy, a mythical process of shapeshifting, aptly represents the transformation of nature into wine at Therianthropy Wines. Established in late 2019 in Creemore Hills, Niagara, Ontario, this collaborative garagiste project, spearheaded by winemaker David Eiberg, emphasizes low-intervention wines crafted from sustainably sourced grapes across Ontario. Every aspect of their winemaking process reflects commitment to natural… Read More »

Sogrape is a prominent wine company known for its diverse wine portfolio, but it also boasts exquisite offerings such as Barca Velha, widely regarded as Portugal’s most celebrated still red wine. This iconic wine has been crafted since the 1950s and is only released in outstanding vintages. Recently, these exceptional wines were showcased at the… Read More »

A quiet revolution is taking root in Montalcino, where recent changes in vineyard quotas are poised to significantly enhance the production of Rosso di Montalcino. After adjustments approved at the end of 2024, this shift offers a promising future for what has typically been seen as Montalcino’s second wine. Rosso di Montalcino, akin to its… Read More »

A Fine Wine Journey Through Marlborough, New Zealand Ken Gargett embarks on a journey through Marlborough, New Zealand’s most renowned wine region. Highlighting its primary export, Sauvignon Blanc, he notes its significance to the country’s wine identity. The region produces three distinct types of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc: Bulk operations, which treat wine as a commodity.… Read More »

I recently had the opportunity to taste some remarkable wines from Brendon Keys of BK Wines at East End Cellars in Adelaide. This visit followed my earlier experience of sampling one of his wines at Mother Vine, which is closely associated with East End Cellars. Brendon, along with his wife Kirsty, has developed a reputation… Read More »

Central Otago, the world’s most southerly major wine-growing region, has garnered acclaim for its unique Pinot Noir, characterized by distinct and captivating flavors. Nestled amidst awe-inspiring landscapes of ravines, mountains, and lakes, this New Zealand region defies the maritime influence typical of many other wine areas. Spanning 2,055 hectares, with 1,655 hectares devoted solely to… Read More »

A recent human trafficking trial in France has led to the conviction of three individuals for their mistreatment of harvest workers in the Champagne region. This trial has drawn significant attention, particularly regarding the conditions faced by over 50 workers, many of whom were undocumented migrants. The court in Châlons-en-Champagne sentenced the defendants for their… Read More »

Gérard Perse, the esteemed owner of Château Pavie, passed away at the age of 75 after a prolonged illness, as confirmed by the estate via social media on July 19, 2025. His passing marks the end of a remarkable journey that saw him elevate Château Pavie into one of the most distinguished estates in Bordeaux.… Read More »

Roger Boulton, an emeritus professor from the University of California Davis and a leading figure in wine chemistry, delivered an insightful presentation at the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference, focusing on precision fermentation management. He highlighted two major challenges faced during fermentation: sluggish or incomplete fermentations and the production of hydrogen sulfide due to elemental… Read More »