|
Nick Alabaster
UK-based wine lover Nick Alabaster has been collecting wine
since the early 1990s, having donned his proverbial anorak. Nick's broad knowledge of fine
wine extends from the classic regions of France to Australia and California. Coming from a
background of developing software for the financial services sector, in his column he
brings some of his fresh perspectives on the world of wine -- he's got some interesting
things to say.
Nick can be contacted at nick.alabaster@ntlworld.com
Articles:
- When is a
wine fault not a wine fault?
It's an interesting question: just where do you draw the line
between a wine 'fault' and a feature that adds complexity or interest.
And some wines can get away with characteristics that would be faults in
another context.
- What is a fine
wine?
Nick disputes whether he should be billed as a 'fine wine' expert.
But what is 'fine wine' anyway? Can it be defined in a useful way?
- Overnight
wine storage
Don't know what to do with that half bottle you couldn't finish? Nick
gives his verdict on the different wine storage options.
- Things can only get better?
The inexact science of wine ageing
Nick tackles the frustratingly complex subject of ageing wine, and looks at
the features in a young wine that might suggest it has a long life ahead of it.
- Why old world wine is better
than new
Nick Alabaster and Jamie Goode discuss the relative merits of old and new
world wines in this fascinating debate.
- The importance of glasses
Undoubtedly one of the most important factors affecting the taste of the wine
is the glass it is served in. Nick Alabaster emphasizes the importance of correct
glassware if you are going to get the best out of the gems in your cellar, and makes some
recommendations about what to buy if you are looking to experiment with stemware.
- Wine trends and buzzwords
Neologists unite! Nick takes us on a tour through some of the new trends and
buzzwords that are currently gaining ground in the world of wine.
- Cellaring wine: the lessons
of experience
There comes a stage when many wine-lovers realize that they want to start
building their own cellar, for future drinking pleasure. Nick shares his tips for
collecting wine, based on his own experience over the last decade, which he hopes will
help others avoid some of the hidden pitfalls.
- Rating wine
The practice of rating wines is currently a matter of some controversy, but it is nothing
new. Starting with the 1855 classification of Bordeaux, Nick takes a look at the whole
area of rating wines, and asks whether wine scores have any meaning.
|