Anya Taylor-Joy: “What makes wine unforgettable is the emotion it sparks”

You are known for your captivating screen roles, but apparently you also have a passion for wine. Can you tell us more?

It’s true! I discovered wine at quite an early age, though in a totally respectful and gradual way through my parents who wanted me to understand this world of flavours. Over time, my curiosity turned into a genuine fascination with winemaking. When I’m filming on location, I try and visit local wineries, speak with winegrowers and get a better understanding of the connection between the vineyard sites and the flavours you encounter in the glass. That chemistry borders on magic.

Do you have a particularly lasting memory of a wine tasting or a wine that blew you away?

A few years ago, I was lucky enough to taste an amazing Bordeaux at a dinner party during the Cannes Film Festival. The wine had incredible complexity with aromas of black fruits, truffle and even a little leather. It’s an experience that really left a lasting impression on me. This type of tasting made me realise just how much wine is a work of art unto itself.

You grew up in Buenos Aires in Argentina, one of the largest wine producing countries in South America. Do you think this had an influence on your perception of wine?

I lived in Argentina until I was six. Then I went to live in England with my parents. That doesn’t mean I’m not extremely proud of my South American heritage. Every time I go back to the country where I spent my childhood, I remember how I grew up surrounded by people who enjoyed good wine, especially Malbec, which is a real national treasure. Even though I was very young, I would see my parents and their friends uncork good wines for dinner parties and I think that instilled in me a certain respect for wine as a way of socialising and sharing with others.

So what kind of relationship do you have with Malbec, the iconic Argentine grape variety?

Malbec has a special place in my heart. It is robust and intense and encapsulates a kind of warmth and boldness, in some ways like Argentina itself. For me, it is a wine that epitomises the soul of the country where I spent my childhood – it is intense and profound. Although I’m passionate about other wines now, I often come back to Malbec when I want to get a feel for Buenos Aires again.

Do you have any memories of recent tastings or occasions where wine left a lasting impression on you in Argentina?

Yes, of course. There is a tradition in Argentina where people get together for ‘asados’ or barbecues and wine is an integral part of the meal. I love these big get-togethers with the occasional bursts of laughter from friends and family where everyone comes together over some good wine and authentic cooking. It’s an atmosphere that I try and re-create wherever I am. Wine was always there to celebrate the simple, joyful moments in life.

Did living in another country have an influence on your perception of wine and the culture surrounding it?

Yes, hugely. I discovered very different perspectives on wine. All of these influences broaden my viewpoint and my appreciation. Whether I’m in France, Italy or even California – where I discovered some amazing wines – every location adds something unique. There is also a respect for time and patience that I particularly admire. In our society, everything is so fast whereas wine requires you to take your time. It kind of reminds you not to forget wisdom.

What do you feel makes a wine truly memorable? Is it the flavour, the context or something else?

I think it’s a mixture of all those. Obviously, the flavour is essential, but the context and the people you share wine with are just as important. A wine can be outstanding in terms of quality, but what makes it unforgettable is often the emotion it sparks and the memories that go with it and last forever.