Brunette Clear, an innovative coffee liqueur, has recently been introduced by Bordeaux Distilling Co, marking a ‘world first’ with its organic transparent formula. This liqueur aims to reduce waste in the coffee industry by incorporating two by-products of coffee production: cascara, the de-pulped coffee cherry, and coffee blossom. Brunette Clear (22% ABV, priced at £30.75… Read More »
Nicolas and Cristiano Kopke, originally from Hamburg, fled the devastation of The Thirty Years War to Portugal, where they founded their namesake company in 1638. This predates other notable Port producers, such as Dow and Taylor. Initially focused on distribution, the Kopke family transitioned to production in the 18th century, establishing an impressive stock of… Read More »
In November 2025, Emmanuel Reynaud passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer, marking the loss of one of France’s most remarkable and enigmatic winegrowers. Although he was renowned as the steward of Château Rayas, Reynaud preferred to avoid the spotlight, often traveling little and receiving visitors only sparingly. Dedicated to family traditions, he preserved… Read More »
When exploring Lidl’s wine selection, one standout recommendation is the Ponte Giulio Orvieto Classico. Despite its simple label, this white wine impresses with zesty mineral freshness—perfect for welcoming the spring season. Navigating Lidl’s extensive wine aisle can be challenging due to numerous lesser-known appellations, but to simplify your shopping experience, here are eight wines that… Read More »
I’ve visited several Japanese wine regions, and I’ve found a fascinating wine scene that deserves more attention. With few exceptions, Japanese wine production remains largely small-scale and fragmented, which complicates its availability in export markets. Many people outside Japan primarily know about the Koshu wines from Yamanashi, thanks to marketing efforts promoting them internationally. However,… Read More »
Contributing editor Andrew Jefford has received the prestigious 2026 Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrated at the Vinexposium V d’Or awards in Paris. This honor recognizes significant contributions to the global wine community, as assessed by fellow Masters of Wine. In his acceptance speech, Jefford expressed his gratitude and reflected on… Read More »
Just returned from a wonderful few days exploring Porto, Portugal. The city captivated me with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. During my visit, I took the time to wander its historic streets, capturing moments through my camera lens. The sights of Porto include its iconic architecture, charming alleyways, and breathtaking views along the Douro… Read More »
Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant, has been instrumental in elevating the Finger Lakes as a notable region for sparkling wine production in North America. The Finger Lakes boasts a history with sparkling wine dating back to 1867 when Hammondsport’s Pleasant Valley Wine Co earned accolades at the Exposition Universelle in Paris for its sparkling… Read More »
Iago Garrido established Fazenda Augalevada in 2008, acquiring 4 hectares of neglected terraces in the northern region of Ribeiro, which he has since transformed and cultivates using biodynamic practices. Located in the Rioboó zone, known for its former reputation for red wines, Augalevada has begun to shine with remarkable offerings. During a tasting at the… Read More »
When exploring quality wines, the mountainous Navarra region in Spain deserves a spotlight. Known for its unique character, Navarra produces exceptional wines, particularly Garnacha, showcasing a distinctive mountain influence that many find exceptional and often affordable. Navarra’s identity as a wine region is significant, especially as it borders Rioja, a dominant player in Spanish wine… Read More »