A subtle shift is occurring in Napa Valley, as the region transitions from an image rooted in extreme luxury to one that embraces craft, sustainability, and traditional farming practices. Historically, Napa Valley has been synonymous with luxury, with a focus on high-end wineries featuring extravagant tasting rooms and cult wines. Winemaker Ivo Jeramaz, who began… Read More »
Giulia and Giorgio Antonioli transitioned into the world of winemaking after successful careers in different fields; she was an archaeologist and he an art historian. In 2018, they decided to shift paths and leased old vineyards on the slopes of the Apennine Mountains in Umbria, Italy, which they meticulously renovated. Now operating under the name… Read More »
Set in downtown Portland at the Kimpton Vintage Hotel, the Willamette Valley Wine Auction returns for its 10th anniversary, showcasing nearly every lot of the vintage 2024 wines. As Acting North America Regional Editor for Decanter, I tasted the auction lots, which are special blends sourced from select barrels of top vineyard sites. These auction… Read More »
Angiolino Maule is a prominent figure in Italy’s natural wine movement. He and his wife, Rosamaria, began their journey in the late 1970s when they opened a pizzeria. With the savings they accumulated, they purchased a farm named La Biancara, which also included some vineyards. They continued their hospitality business while producing their first wines… Read More »
Moscato, a sweet and light-bodied wine, has gained immense popularity, particularly after it became a favorite among hip-hop artists in the 2000s. The trend began with Lil’ Kim’s mention in her song "Lighters Up" and later by Drake, who highlighted its perfect pairing with lobster. By 2011, sales soared over $300 million in the US,… Read More »
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St Moritz is synonymous with luxury, presenting an opulent blend of history and modernity in Switzerland’s prestigious winter resort. While primarily famous for its winter attractions, the hotel also shines in summer with vibrant meadows and an array of outdoor activities. As summer unfolds, guests are greeted by fresh mountain air… Read More »
Has Cédric Moussé discovered a revolutionary way to achieve the quality of magnum Champagne in a 75cl bottle? This question lies at the heart of the innovation behind the Light-26, a groundbreaking bottle designed to replicate the magnum effect with a smaller capacity. In collaboration with Saverglass, a premium glass manufacturer, Moussé aims to create… Read More »
Inspired by the 19th-century physician Francis E. Anstie, Dr. Erik Skovenborg delves into the intricate relationship between alcohol consumption, safety, and the evolving limits placed on drinking. Skiing is mentioned as a metaphor for risk, illustrating that engaging in certain activities—including drinking—is inherently risky. Anstie’s law suggests that instead of seeking absolute safety, individuals should… Read More »
Washington State’s wine industry has found itself at a pivotal juncture, as it contends with significant challenges and shifts aimed at redefining its future. The legacy of prominent wineries such as Chateau Ste Michelle has played a crucial role in advancing the reputation of Washington wines. Established in the 1930s, Chateau Ste Michelle built solid… Read More »
I recently had my first experience at Hector’s, an exceptional wine bar nestled in De Beauvoir Town, Hackney, just a short stroll from the Dalston Junction overground station. This location, combined with nearby wine spots like Dan’s, Newcomer, and Brilliant Corners, makes this area a top destination for wine enthusiasts. The ambiance at Hector’s is… Read More »