Alentejo producer Cortes de Cima has undergone a significant transformation since Anna Jørgensen took over from her parents in 2019. The winery has shifted towards low intervention winemaking, employing organic, biodynamic, and regenerative practices in its vineyard management. With its latest collection of wines, Cortes de Cima is confidently establishing its reputation in the wine… Read More »
Collioure: Compelling Exoticism and Originality The wines from Collioure, a unique region in Mediterranean France, are notable for their richness and finesse. The picturesque area features steep, schist-laden hills that rise dramatically from the sea, creating ideal terraced vineyards. Historically, these vineyards benefited from a long-standing wine-growing tradition, but faced challenges, including the devastation caused… Read More »
I have a strong appreciation for Chablis, but it’s crucial to select producers wisely, as the quality can vary significantly within the region. Below is my curated list of the best Chablis producers, with top choices highlighted first. Notably, I mention the two most renowned producers at the end; their wines are highly sought after,… Read More »
In the modern wine industry, aging wine in barrels is often seen as a way to enhance style, yet historically, barrels primarily served the purpose of storage. Rod Phillips explores when barrels transitioned from mere containers to significant players in winemaking aesthetics. Consider contemporary barrel rooms where barrels are aligned with precision, filled with maturing… Read More »
This was a delightful wine dinner with a wonderful group at the esteemed Drapers Arms. Each attendee brought a couple of bottles, and the challenge was to taste them blind. We followed a process of tasting, discussing, revealing, and finally enjoying the wines together. For wine enthusiasts, this experience is incredibly enjoyable, though it may… Read More »
Pinotage is a fascinating grape variety that has a rich history. Originating from a cross in the 1920s, it faced near extinction but was rediscovered, leading to the first varietal wines produced in the 1950s. Despite its challenges in vinification — it can ferment in unpredictable ways and create reduction issues — winemakers have had… Read More »
Lauriga, located in Thuir within the Les Aspres terroir of Roussillon, has a rich history and is experiencing a revitalization under the ownership of Jean-Claude Mas since July 2016. Once a dormant estate, Lauriga has now leaned towards modernizing its wine production, shifting focus primarily towards white wines while still producing Vin Doux Naturels, which… Read More »
A Defense of Wine Writing Two friends, Meg Maker and Terry Theise, share their frustrations about the state of wine writing today. They believe that wine, an object (or "being," as Theise prefers) of beauty, deserves to be written about in a manner that is both persuasive and exquisite. While it can be tiresome to… Read More »
Here’s a selection of moments captured throughout 2025—an eventful year full of exciting happenings in the world of wine. The year kicked off with the Cool Climate Wine Summit held in Copenhagen in January, followed by podcasting sessions with Emily and Doug. Not long after, February brought visits to the Niepoort cellars in Jerez, showcasing… Read More »
Tasting four different Champagnes for comparison revealed a standout performer, Ayala. Champagne Ayala Brut Majeur NV, France This Champagne is blended from 70 crus and 120 vinifications, featuring 55% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, and 15% Pinot Meunier. With a base from the challenging 2021 vintage, it utilizes 43% reserve wines and has a dosage of… Read More »