“I think around 40% of wine production here in McLaren Vale is organic,” Yangarra Estate winemaker Peter Fraser told me over an interview on their sustainable initiatives. That sounds impressive but actually Peter thinks more producers could be organic due to the natural conditions …
I first visited Exton Park in 2018. The rolling vineyard estate, owned by a local Hampshire watercress magnate, was rather impressive and had been running for several years with some rather enjoyable sparkling wine releases on the market. But on my visit, French winemaker …
The Douro has long been known for its fortified Port wines, but it is increasingly carving a reputation in the world of fine wine for its characterful (unfortified) red wines. The acquisition of Quinta da Boavista by Sogevinus in June 2020 was very much …
Of the great ‘Bordeaux six’, we really only ever really talk about the Bordeaux three: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and to a much lesser-extent, Cabernet Franc. But almost forgotten on the back labels and rarely found in the vineyards of Bordeaux today are the other …
Have you ever tasted wines from Malta or Gozo? In this guide to the wines of Malta and Gozo, we look at the heroic island viticulture and challenges of this island terroir as well as the benefits and distinctive character of Maltese wines. Guide …
We’ve all had the age-old argument about whether wine is more about art or science, but how much of it is tech? In today’s fast-moving world, the importance of wineries navigating modern, global technologies has moved far beyond the cellar. Any producer hoping to …
‘Minerality’. Probably the wine word most likely to cause excitement, fury and frustration in wine circles today. And, as it turns out, one that will most certainly fill a room with wine journalists. As was the setting for a conversation and tasting between Steve …
Okanagan must be one of the most beautiful wine regions to visit at harvest time: you are constantly accompanied by beautiful lakes and mountains, the aromas of the many orchards and gardens, and the sunshine is warm and daylight hours are long. It has …
In the 19th century there were over 6,000 hectares of vineyards surrounding Pamplona, and over 50,000 in Navarra as a whole. The city that is known for the running of the bulls was also known for its overflowing wine production. The pilgrim’s route to …
Rioja’s wine is world-renowned but this is also a region known for its stellar cuisine. You can barely put a foot wrong anywhere in Spain when it comes to good home cooking, but there are some places that stand out head and shoulders above …