Unearthing the Past: Sir Walter Ralegh and the Origins of Wine Farming

He stood tall in a time when such stature was rare, his confident demeanor matching his imposing height. Sir Walter Ralegh, dressed in lavish silks and adorned with jewels, sought to gain the favor of Queen Elizabeth I, a goal demanding considerable service to the Crown. His exploits in Ireland earned him significant rewards, including… Read More »

Unearthing the Legacy: Exploring Old Vines in the Digital Age

With the seventh installment of The Old Vine Conference set to begin in Northern California, enthusiasts around the world are invited to participate via free livestream. Scheduled from October 31 to November 4, 2025, this five-day event, held in collaboration with Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP), aims to celebrate and promote old vines through an… Read More »

Vigneron Prestige Blanc de Blancs: The Beauty of Small-Scale Excellence

A recent Champagne tasting in Stockholm showcased top-notch Blanc de Blancs from renowned small growers, revealing the intricacies of terroir and the unique characteristics of each wine. The tasting was organized by Marina Olsson and featured a variety of cuvées, highlighting that while large producers often grab attention, the exceptional quality of smaller, independent growers… Read More »

Cristina Mercuri: Exploring the Elegance of Etna Wines on the Edge

Cristina Mercuri, the founder and CEO of Mercuri Wine Club, delves into how the wines of Sicily’s DOC Etna are contributing to the evolving identity of Italian wine, moving towards a style characterized by elegance and restraint. Located on the flanks of Mount Etna, the area’s vineyards span approximately 1,300 hectares across diverse landscapes shaped… Read More »