November 30, 2023 - Eric Guido
Wild, rich, exotic, warming and seductive, the wines of Sardinia are unlike any others in Italy. While sometimes over-the-top, it's impossible to deny the sheer pleasure of exploring wines that showcase the unique personalities of the island's indigenous and not-so-indigenous varieties.
November 29, 2023 - Antonio Galloni
It’s that time of year again. With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to find that perfect gift for the wine lovers in your life. This year’s Vinous Holiday Gift Guide features a number of great ideas to make this holiday season one to remember.
November 28, 2023 - Antonio Galloni
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.
November 16, 2023 - Joaquín Hidalgo
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
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
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
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.
September 29, 2023 - Neal Martin
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
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
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.
91 points ($25)
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)
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)
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)
November 27, 2023 - Neal Martin
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
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
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.