Dirk Niepoort needs no introduction. For me, this is the Douro’s most exciting winery (it’s one of the world’s most exciting wineries, for that matter). Dirk says that in 2013…
In the Douro (2) Quinta Vale Dona Maria
Two very interesting visits yesterday: Vale Dona Maria and Niepoort. There’s something nice about unhurried appointments. It takes the pressure off: you don’t need to gather the maximum information in…
In the Douro, 1 – Quinta do Vale Meão
I’m in the Douro. As is common on the road, time for blogging is short, and internet connections are not always guaranteed (although across the world they are so much…
On bias, dogma and fashion in the wine world
It’s very easy to lose perspective. In wine as in life. And none of us are totally immune to fashions, to trends, and the latest movements. And if we get…
Back to Portugal, off to the Douro again
I’m off to Portugal this evening. Back to the Douro, for some quality time with the Douro Boys. I remember my first visit to the Douro. It was back in…
Writing a new book: time to do some research
This week I had a new book commissioned. It’s one I have wanted to write for a while. Entitled ‘I taste red’, it explores the interesting topic of the flavour…
Two Burgundies I liked: Jobard and Bichot
Gotta love Burgundy. Here are two rather nice ones that aren’t stupidly expensive, but which are delicious. Antoine Jobard Bourgogne Blanc 2011 Burgundy, France Wonderful stuff: lovely matchstick and citrus…
A mini vertical of Noval Vintage Port
Had a chance to try four vintages of Noval side by side. Sadly, this was tasting not drinking – and usually, tasting notes made in the act of drinking have…
Champagne Armand de Brignac: a marketing success story
The Armand de Brignac story is a remarkable one, and represents one of the great wine marketing successes of all time. It begins with the Cattier family, from the village…