Another raid on Terroirs last night. I love this place! We did some raiding – a slightly disappointing bottle of Ganevat (occasionally this happens) was followed by a Souhaut Syrah…
Ambergris, a remarkable natural smell ingredient from whales
I’m obsessed by smells. It’s a good job because a large part of my job involves smelling things. Most commonly, fermented grape juice. But for a long time I’ve been…
In Milan, some pictures
This weekend I am in Milan, on a small press trip with Ramada Hotels. I’ve been doing a bit of work putting together a special wine list for Ramada, showcasing…
New York State (9) Dr Konstantin Frank, Finger Lakes
Dr Konstantin Frank is one of the most important figures in the development of the Finger Lakes wine region. His story is a remarkable one, too. He’s most famous now…
Just because I’m learning it doesn’t mean I’m stupid
Most introduction to wine books are deeply unsatisfying. Why? It’s because when people try to take the role of educator, they forget that many of their readers are actually quite…
Epic Pouilly-Fuissés from Domaine du Roc des Boutires
Domaine du Roc des Boutires is a new discovery for me. This is high-end Pouilly-Fuissé, and the vineyards, which total 4.2 hecatres, are ideally situated in the shadow of Roche…
Champagne Ruinart Blanc de Blancs
Very impressed with this, the current release of the Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. It’s immediately accessible, and obviously delicious, but it also has a serious side to it. Very skilful…
New York State (8) Fox Run Vineyards, Finger Lakes
Fox Run Vineyards is one of the leading wineries in the Finger Lakes. Originally a dairy farm on Seneca Lake, the first vineyards were planted here in 1984. The current…
Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand (6) Paritua
Paritua is an impressive property, with a state-of-the-art winery and a sizeable 54 hectares of vineyards surrounding it, based in the Bridge Pa district of Hawke’s Bay. The vineyard…