Matt Kirby is an Aussie winemaker who previously worked in the Clare Valley. But he migrated to New Zealand is now the winemaker at Clearview Estate in Hawke’s Bay. His…
New York State (10) Bloomer Creek, Finger Lakes
Kim Engle and Debra Bermingham are the people behind Bloomer Creek, which on this showing is producing some of the most compelling wines in the Finger Lakes. We visited with…
Two superb Central Otago Pinot Noirs from Akitu
A relatively new arrival on the Central Otago Pinot circuit is Akitu. Andrew Donaldson planted this vineyard in Wanaka back in 2002 on old schist, and the wines are made at…
London restaurants (3): Bright
It’s Sunday night, and I head out to London Fields for dinner at Bright, a rising star on the London gastro scene. It’s located on the site that used to…
Gantenbein Chardonnay 2014, a stunning wine from Switzerland
This was a real surprise. I was shopping for a bottle for dinner at Berry Bros & Rudd, and Gareth Birchley appears. So I ask for a tip: something serious,…
Gamay 45, Yvon Métras Moulin-à-Vent 2015
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…