November 28, 2023 - Antonio Galloni
Santa Lucia Highlands: Cool-Climate Excellence in 2021
The 2021s from the Santa Lucia Highlands build on a theme of excellence seen throughout California in what has turned out to be a largely impressive vintage in many appellations. Readers will find numerous compelling wines to explore, but many of the best wines are not always the usual suspects.
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November 16, 2023 - Joaquín Hidalgo
Ribera del Duero: A Shifting Frontier for Spanish Wine
Forty years after its official inception, the Ribera del Duero DO is experiencing a period of change, with a wide range of new wines and styles that run the gamut from traditional to strikingly forward-thinking. Whether its producers are focused on expressing the identity of a region or looking to push the boundaries of what can be done with premium red wines in the higher areas of Castilla y León, the DO offers a diverse range of reds along with a handful of whites whose character is defining the area’s transition from the past into the present.
November 14, 2023 - Neal Martin
White-on-White: Porseleinberg 2010-2020
Among South Africa’s clutch of world-class Syrah, Porseleinberg is regarded as the best. So what better than a vertical of every vintage to date tutored by winemaker Callie Louw?
November 9, 2023 - Nicolas Greinacher
Vacqueyras New Releases: Walking the Underdog
In the sun-drenched vineyards of the Southern Rhône Valley, a captivating underdog story has been unfolding for years. Overshadowed by its prestigious neighbor, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the unassuming Vacqueyras appellation has been gaining attention for its affordable, high-quality wines. This report dives deep into the world of Vacqueyras, explores its characteristics, winemaking techniques and the latest four vintages, uncovering why this hidden gem deserves your attention.
November 7, 2023 - Antonio Galloni
Santa Cruz Mountains – California’s Hidden Gem
Tucked into its own little corner of the world, far away from most of California’s better-known regions, the Santa Cruz Mountains is home to a number of world-class estates and equally notable vineyards. Readers who enjoy focused, nervy Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs will find much to explore, as will those who appreciate the more savory, structured side of Cabernet Sauvignon. Although I have not tasted all the wines yet, 2021 is shaping up to be an extraordinary vintage here.
November 2, 2023 - Neal Martin
The A to Z of South Africa
Who knew that South Africa is a polymath: a dab hand at whites, reds, dry, sweet, Pinot, Cabernet (and Rugby World Cup champions)… My annual report gathers new releases from the country’s finest producers, discussing current issues covering everything from A to Z.
October 31, 2023 - Angus Hughson
Killer Cabernet from Coonawarra and Friends
There is a widespread perception that Shiraz is far and away South Australia’s leading red grape variety. Yet scratch a little deeper, and the credentials of Cabernet Sauvignon loom large, from bold Barossan and Clare Valley styles through to more elegant and nuanced wines. This article explores the current state of South Australian Cabernet Sauvignon and blends from a range of regions while uncovering the breathtaking quality and value to be found in Coonawarra’s 2021 vintage.
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September 29, 2023 - Neal Martin
Vinous Table: FYN, Cape Town, South Africa
I thoroughly enjoyed FYN. I appreciated the buzz about the place. There were a couple of dishes where, with background knowledge of Japanese cuisine, I might tweak a couple of things. Still, overall, this kaiseki-Cape fusion is imaginative and, most importantly, delicious.
September 22, 2023 - Neal Martin
Vinous Table: Mountain, London, UK
When I caught wind that Anglesey-born chef Tomos Parry planned to open a new restaurant called “Mountain”, well, I could not quell my excitement.
September 15, 2023 - Neal Martin
Vinous Table: 64 Goodge Street, London, UK
Overall, 64 Goodge Street is a welcome addition to the capital’s dynamic dining scene. Prices are reasonable, and the décor is tasteful and classy. I always like an open kitchen, and the service is absolutely top-notch. A central location and tempting wine list mean that oenophiles venturing to London will enjoy its take on Gallic cuisine. Plus, of course, no need to look up the address.
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91 points ($25)
2019 Avignonesi Nobile di Montepulciano
The 2019 Nobile di Montepulciano is a pleasure on the nose. Sweet spice complements raspberry and cherry aromas. Juicy acidity balances silky textures as rose-tinged red berries cascade across the palate. There’s a gentle coating of fine tannins and lovely energy as hard red candy hints fade. (EG)
92 points ($25)
2021 Cambria Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard
The 2021 Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard is laced with crushed red berry fruit. Spice, tobacco and mint are some of the notes that grace this expressive, nuanced Pinot. The 2021 was done with fully destemmed fruit, but there is a sense of savoriness here that is quite attractive. (AG)
92 points ($24)
2021 Hitching Post Gen Red
The 2021 Gen Red is a fun red blend. Dark red fruit, menthol, spice and soaring aromatics all run through this perfumed, supple red. The 2021 is a charmer. (AG)
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November 27, 2023 - Neal Martin
Cellar Favorite: 1971 Hospices des Moulin-à-Vent Moulin-à-Vent
Held every November, the Hospices de Beaune is Burgundy’s most famous charity auction. It attracts global attention, celebrities and, in recent years, stratospheric hammer prices. Lying in its shadow is the annual Hospices de Nuits auction that unfairly doesn’t attract nearly the same hoopla. Yet I have encountered very fine bottlings. Until the 1971 Moulin-à-Vent was poured, I had no idea that a similar auction was held in Beaujolais. I do not know when the auction ceased and correct me if I’m wrong, but it seems lost in the mists of time.
November 20, 2023 - Neal Martin
Cellar Favorite: 2009 Maximin Grünhaus – von Schubert Abtsberg Riesling Auslese #93
Poured on a hot sunny evening in Beaune between a quick dip in the pool and a delicious supper, the 2009 Abstberg Riesling Auslese #93 from winemaker Carl von Schubert ranks as one of the greatest Rieslings I've encountered in the last five years.
November 13, 2023 - Neal Martin
Cellar Favorite: 1971 Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz
There was a time a few years ago when I drank quite a number of mature Australian wines. Sadly, these have become much harder to find, especially since I have not visited Australia for over a decade. Therefore, it was a joy to drink a 52-year-old bottle from Henschke on a recent trip to the Far East.
