This weekend Vilafranca comes alive with the Vijazz festival. It’s basically a street party combining jazz and wine. Over 30 Penedes wine producers are taking part, and there are two…
Some thoughts about the ‘Judgment of Princeton’ tasting
There’s been a fair bit of chat in the wine world about ‘The Judgment of Princeton’ (here). This was a wine tasting organized by the American Association of Wine Economists…
Another experience of Spanish greatness in the form of Equipo Navazos sherries
I am being spoiled by Spain at the moment. Hot on the heels of yesterdays fabulous Vega Sicilia tasting, today was a chance to try through a wide range of…
Lunch at the Glasshouse, Kew, with Brian and Marion Smith of Elgin Ridge
Kew’s Glasshouse has to be one of the best places to lunch in London. It’s the sister restaurant to the equally impressive La Trompette in Chiswick, and together this pair…
Alsace, the final day, with Josmeyer and Dirler-Cade
Just two appointments on my last day in Alsace, but they were very good ones. First, Josymeyer, with Celine Meyer, managing director. Her sister Isabelle is the winemaker, and the…
The real wine fair dinner in pictures
Cracking night last night. Dinner with the growers at the Real Wine Fair. 200 people, a gazillion bottles of natural wine, and simple but delicious food. I didn’t take any…
A brief report from day 1 of the Real Wine Fair
Today was day 1 of the Real Wine Fair, held at the rather wonderful subterranean venue of Victoria House in Holborn. I was there to give a seminar, and also…
A dinner in honour of Paul Symington, with 1945 Graham
On Thursaday night, I attended the Decanter Man of the Year dinner held in honour of this year’s recipient, Paul Symington. Right from the outset, when Paul was rung with…
Two Champagnes to celebrate the premiership win
I was born in the season when Manchester City last won the league. We’re talking football here (association football, or soccer, for those outside Europe). It was called the 1st Division…