ASC Fine Wines has officially returned to family ownership, marking a significant shift in the company’s trajectory after years under the control of Japan’s Suntory Group. The St. Pierre family, who founded the wine importer in 1996, successfully repurchased the company, finalizing the deal on June 2, 2025. Don St. Pierre Jr., the executive chairman… Read More »
At the recent London Wine Fair, a notable blind tasting event named "Battle of the Bubbles" took place, focusing on top Champagnes and other esteemed sparkling wines. The tasting was designed to allow judges to evaluate the wines without any biases regarding their origins, with a specific briefing to avoid guessing the wines’ regions. This… Read More »
Roussillon is a stunning wine-producing region in France, characterized by breathtaking landscapes and a diverse range of terroirs. With over half of its 19,000 hectares dedicated to vineyards that boast vines aged 50 years and older, Roussillon is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts. Notable vineyards in the region present remarkable geological features, from schist… Read More »
Decanter’s June 2025 issue delves into mindful drinking and features insights from three sommeliers who have either reduced their alcohol consumption or opted out altogether. The magazine also takes a retrospective look at four decades of Cloudy Bay, a prominent name in New Zealand’s wine industry, while a travel piece explores the scenic Lavaux region… Read More »
Ayala has recently unveiled its 2015 vintage of the Perle Extra Brut Champagne, which launched in January 2025. Known for its signature light and bright style, this vintage features a blend primarily focused on Chardonnay—at least 50%—a nod to the house’s historical preference dating back to its founder Edmond de Ayala in 1860, despite being… Read More »
Pauillac’s Château Pichon Comtesse de Lalande, St-Emilion’s Château Canon, and Pomerol’s Château Clinet have joined the trend of price reductions in the Bordeaux 2024 en primeur campaign. This follows the noteworthy price cut from first growth Château Margaux the previous day. On June 3, 2025, Pichon Comtesse’s release price was set at €90 per bottle… Read More »
The 2024 Bordeaux vintage presents itself as a complex and challenging one for the region, characterized by both a tricky growing season and market conditions that may jeopardize its business model. The 2024 en primeur campaign kicked off with an acknowledgment of adversity; the title Singing in the Rain encapsulates this sentiment. Véronique Sanders, president… Read More »
Eddie McDougall recently visited, prompting a gathering of the new Canary Wharf Wine Club to welcome him and share some interesting wines. The majority of the wines were served blind for an engaging discussion before their identities were revealed. Among the selections were three notable Chinese wines that stood out against strong competition. First up… Read More »
A brief visit to the First Class lounge at Heathrow Terminal 5 allowed for a delightful wine tasting experience featuring several exceptional selections. Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain NV, FranceThis champagne was bright and juicy, showcasing vivid citrus notes complemented by a touch of toastiness. Its intriguing fruit character, balanced beautifully by dosage and acidity, provided… Read More »
The 2023 vintage in the Douro Valley has emerged as one characterized by "welcomingly wet" conditions, leading to a series of notable releases in the Vintage Port category. Significant producers such as Quinta do Noval, Taylor’s, and Symington Family Estates have unveiled their 2023 Vintage Ports, with Quinta do Noval making a full classic declaration.… Read More »