There’s a good article in today’s Independent on the ‘Rock’n’roll’ sommeliers who are replacing ‘wine list dinosaurs’ in London’s restaurant scene. I’m not sure about the ‘rock’n’roll’ descriptor, but it’s…
If I were to set wine exams, I’d ask some rather different questions
If I were to set wine exams, I think I’d ask some rather different questions. Let’s think of a few. 1. Tell me about a wine that you once fell…
Establishing geographic indications for wine
I’ve just written an article on ‘Developing Appellations’, which discusses some of the controversies and pitfalls surrounding the creation of geographic indications (GIs) in emerging wine regions. Here are a…
How to have a cool, happening palate. Advice from a master!
Scared of being labelled as an old-timer has-been with yesterday’s palate? Want to stay relevant in the modern world of wine? Want to be able to hang with the cool…
The question people always want to ask: how do you make a living?
I realize that I am fortunate to be doing the job I do. It’s hugely interesting and fun. But there’s one question that people I meet always want to ask…
Some great experiences at the incredible FMV tasting
Fields, Morris & Verdin have long had an enviable portfolio of great producers. This was bolstered a few years ago by the acquisition of Richards Walford in 2012, of course,…
Give me people who care
Consider the natural wine movement. I do, often. It is not perfect, but at least most people who align themselves with this movement care. They believe in something, and it…
RAW and the London Wine Fair
I am almost overwhelmed. Since Thursday, I have been tasting almost continually. And two events in particular – the RAW fair on Sunday (above) and Monday, and the London Wine…
Lunch at Francis and Bronwen’s place
Lunch today at Francis and Bronwen Percival’s place in Borough Market. As you’d expect, fabulous food and drink. Also present, Neil Beckett and Jasmine Hirsch. It was a lovely afternoon,…