🇯🇵 Japan’s Hidden Wine Scene Gewürztraminer like Savagnin and Pinot Gris like Red Wine
A deep dive into the unexpected excellence of Japanese winemaking, beginning in Hokkaido. This sommelier report features tasting notes from the insider-favorite French Panda wine bar in Sapporo, highlighting unique expressions of Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Zweigelt from cutting-edge producers like Kamisato Vineyard, Domaine Mont, Takahiko Soga, and Domaine Bless.
💥 Beyond the Hype: The Two Secrets to Truly Complex Grower Champagne
An experienced sommelier cuts through the Grower Champagne hype to define the true essence of complexity in the region. Featuring a deep analysis of the factors that matter—barrel fermentation, long lees aging, and reserve wine—and a review of the legendary cuvée L’Étonnant Monsieur Victor MK.11 from Rodolphe Péters of Le Mesnil sur Oger.
💰 Price, Palate, or PR? How to Define the "Best Winemaker" in the World
A sommelier’s essential guide to defining the "best" in winemaking: evaluating the influence of price, critical study, and expert opinion. The article features insights on master producers like Olivier Collin (Champagne), Jean-Yves Bizot (Burgundy), and Louis-Michel Liger-Belair (Pinot Noir aristocracy).
🚨 Hype or Heritage? Unmasking the 'Tino Kuban' Phenomenon & The Winemaker's Character
An explosive sommelier investigation into the character of winemakers and the quality of their wine, focusing on the highly-hyped German producer Tino Kuban. We blind-tasted his Pinot Noir L’Ouverture 2020 and Gamay La Leux 2021, comparing them to classics and asking: is his fame driven by PR and hype or true terroir? Featuring a tasting with the team from Gresca Bar in Barcelona.
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