Graham Beck is one of the most highly regarded producers of South Africa’s Cap Classique, the country’s answer to Champagne. With a reputation for exceptional sparkling wines made using the traditional method, Graham Beck has become a favourite for many, especially with their quality to price ratio.
Located in the west of Romania, Cramele Recaș is a reflection of the country’s winemaking heritage and modern ambitions; it’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and where people’s warmth resonates with you. My visit to Cramele Recaș in October was my first visit to Romania. The rolling vineyards, occasionally graced by deer, stretch toward the horizon, and the historic town of Timișoara nearby provided a wonderful blend of old-world charm and vibrant energy and passion.
When Bruno Paillard founded his eponymous Champagne house in 1981, his vision was clear: to make a Champagne of purity, reflecting the finest expression of its terroir. I first visited the estate 10 years ago and fell in love with this purity then.
The holidays are a time to gather, celebrate, and indulge, and no Christmas feast is complete without the perfect wines to match the occasion. From the sparkle of Champagne at breakfast to the richness of a fortified wine with cheese (if you still have room!), each moment of the day offers an opportunity to open something different.
Donnafugata is one of Sicily’s most revered wineries. Established in 1983 by Giacomo Rallo and Gabriella Anca Rallo, the winery draws from over 170 years of family history in winemaking. Now under the stewardship of their children, Antonio and José, Donnafugata continues to champion Sicily’s extraordinary terroir, making wines that capture the island's unique essence and character.
At this time of year, as the festive season approaches, many of us find ourselves pondering the perfect wines to share with guests or to give as thoughtful gifts. With so many options available, choosing can feel daunting. To help narrow the field, I’ve curated a selection of wines that are sure to impress and deserve a spot on your shortlist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a bottle to wrap up as a present, these choices offer something for everyone.
In recent years, Prosecco has taken the world by storm, loved by consumers for its light, fruity style and accessible price point. Yet, perhaps it’s time to reconsider Cava, a sparkling wine that has quietly matured and evolved over the past few years. Though it shares shelf space with Champagne and Prosecco, Cava is often overlooked or misunderstood. Made from the same grape varieties as Champagne (among others), it’s worth exploring the more serious producers, especially Codorníu.
Founded by Fred Schrader in 1998, Schrader Cellars has swiftly become one of the most respected names in Napa Valley, renowned for its single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. At the core of Schrader’s success is the legendary To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, widely recognised as one of Napa's premier sources of Cabernet grapes.
The past few weeks have been incredibly busy, filled with a whirlwind of tastings, travels, and dinners. It's been a bit of a challenge to keep up with everything, but it's a good problem to have when you're surrounded by such exceptional wines and whiskies. From visiting renowned vineyards to experiencing rare bottles, I’ve been lucky to immerse myself in some truly unforgettable moments. As I catch my breath and start to write about my recent experiences, I wanted to share with you a few of the highlights that have stood out.
Domaine Evremond, the result of a unique collaboration between Champagne Taittinger, historic wine merchant Hatch Mansfield, and close friends, has reached a significant milestone with the official opening of its winery in Chilham, Kent. The event, attended by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh, marks a pivotal moment for English sparkling wine, and it’s a development I’ve followed with particular interest.
