Discovery

Verdicchio: Quintessential Marche and the most acclaimed white wine in Italy
Verdicchio is the symbol of wine production in the Marche region. The varietal has evolved over time, winning over the palates of connoisseurs and achieving international recognition. Its history is rooted in the heart of Marche which, with its varied soils, rolling hills and maritime and/or mountain climates, offers ideal conditions for it to thrive.
The renaissance of the Armenian wine industry
For the past fifteen years or so, Armenian wines have been undergoing a true revival. Viticultural traditions that were forgotten, and sometimes lost, during the Soviet era, are re-emerging with increasing numbers of vineyards coming on-stream and an ever-broadening variety of wine. With its outstanding rocky, mountainous terrain, average elevation of 1,500 metres, diverse micro-climates and rich volcanic soils, Armenia is home to felicitous regions for growing vines.
The hidden talent of Provence’s red wines
Red wines remain in the minority in Provence’s colour spectrum, overshadowed by the region’s rosés, despite the fact they are made from the same grape varieties. These are wines with appeal, though, invariably show true sense of place and encapsulating the expertise of winegrowers who have made it their mission to promote them, much to the delight of their customers.
Crowning glory: Why Cape brandy’s time has finally come
Despite a 350-year history and its status as a global champion, South Africa’s Cape brandies remain largely unknown in export markets. That may all be about to change.
How the Portuguese wine industry is reinventing itself
Cash flow issues, international competition, declining domestic consumption, climate change and labour shortages are among the serious challenges facing the Portuguese wine industry today. At the same time, it is also experiencing unprecedented growth. Juggling between crises and success, the industry is rallying round to write a new chapter in its already ancient history.
Are no-low wines picking up steam?
Three years ago, we took a closer look at no-low wines. Since then, the market has grown and some geographical indications have even emerged. But what are the real markets for the category? We asked a sample of European companies.
Liquid heritage, or the challenge for cellar masters to pass on their craft
As the custodians of ancient skills and crucial link in the chain of memory, every year cellar masters craft blends that epitomise their unique house style. But their role is not just to craft wines – they are a vital cog in the wheel of knowledge sharing, training the upcoming generation to take on the mantle of ‘alchemist’ where every detail counts. We take a closer look at these ‘architects of flavour’ and key contributors to the Champagne landscape.