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English Still Wine: Much Promise, Much Afoot
Rest of the World, featured
, Apr 2025
Though eclipsed by the success of English sparkling wine, English still wine has come a long way from the meagre image of yesteryear. What has happened in the past decade is remarkable: Climate change, increased growing expertise and the exploration of new regions have made all the difference. With a track record of excelling in cool and marginal climes, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are undoubtedly the stars. These two chameleons shine on this Sceptred Isle. Much is afoot.
Cellar Favorite: Vilmart Coeur de Cuvée 2006 & 2003
cellar favorite, Cellar Favorites, France: Champagne
, Apr 2025
Vilmart’s Coeur de Cuvée is one of the most consistently outstanding wines in Champagne because of how well it shows in both strong and challenging years. The 2006 and 2003 are peaking today, making them fine choices for readers who enjoy mature Champagne.
Vinous Table: Le Petit Sommelier de Paris, Paris, France
Vinous Table
, Apr 2025
Le Petit Sommelier de Paris specializes in French comfort food favorites. Proprietor Pierre Vila Palleja offers classic bistro fare along with one of the most interesting lists in Paris.
The Brutal Beauty of Sardinia: The 2022 and 2023 Vintages
Sardinia, Italy, featured
, Apr 2025
Sardinia continues to thrive despite a climate that is searingly hot and incredibly dry. Navigating the region isn’t easy, as the island can seem like a continent due to its size, but the effort is certainly rewarding. Between its compelling native varieties, diverse terroir and high concentration of skilled winemakers, Sardinia is positioned for greatness.
Middle East Update: Lebanon and Syria
Lebanon, Rest of the World, featured
, Apr 2025
Complex histories, diverse terroirs and a mix of international and native varieties shape the distinctive wines of Lebanon and Syria. While Lebanon's winemaking industry is well-established, Syria’s remains far less developed. This report highlights and closely examines 12 recent releases from Château Musar, Château Marsyas, Château Kefraya and Domaine de Bargylus.
2025 Champagne: New Releases
France: Champagne, featured
, Apr 2025
My annual March trip to Champagne is always one the highlights of the year. Many producers are preparing to launch their new releases. At the larger houses, this is the time when winemakers are finalizing their blends and deciding whether or not they are going to bottle their tête de cuvées. With spring around the corner, thoughts start to turn to the young vintage and what it might bring. This year, things were different. Deep concerns about the global economy cast a pall on every tasting. That’s a shame, because Champagne continues to be one of the most dynamic regions in the world.
Cellar Favorite: A Landmark Vintage – Henschke 2021
Australia, Australia Featured, cellar favorite, Cellar Favorites
, Apr 2025
Henschke is one of the most historic wineries in Australia, known for unforced wines that showcase their various terroirs. The annual Henschke release is a true vintage snapshot of Eden Valley.
Vinous Table: Le B., New York, United States
Vinous Table
, Apr 2025
Le B. is a Manhattan restaurant that is unashamedly inspired by the past, offering a stellar cast of classic French dishes in all their indulgent glory.
Balloons, Mermaids & Margaux: Château Giscours 1938-2023
France: Bordeaux featured Verticals and Retrospectives, France: Bordeaux Verticals and Retrospectives featured, featured
, Apr 2025
Château Giscours is a storied Margaux estate that has, in some ways, been “rebuilt” over the last three decades under Estate Director Alexander van Beek. This article tells the tale and examines the terroir and techniques, signposted by a vertical tasting of the wines from the thirties to the present day.
Alsace 2023: Astonishing Whites and Splendid Reds from a Complex Year
France: Alsace, featured
, Apr 2025
Dry, dry, dry. This is how Alsace growers remember the 2023 vintage. Sandy, gravelly sites on the plain suffered and stony slopes struggled, but sites with more water-retentive soils fared much better. In 2023, the Rieslings have concentration, moderate alcohol, ripe acidity and great aging potential. The stylistic spectrum of Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer is as broad and diverse as ever, while Pinot Noir is getting finer and finer.