Magazine

There’s no denying that at 79, Michael Douglas could be enjoying a well-deserved retirement, relaxing on the white sand beaches beneath the coconut trees or sipping rosé after a game of golf in the Bahamas. Given his successful career and countless box office hits, nobody would have held it against him. But that’s not who the prolific and tireless offspring of Kirk – aka Spartacus – is. More active than ever, he should soon feature in a biopic on Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America. In the meantime, let’s raise a toast to this lover of fine fare and most Francophile of stars!

The story of Lebanese wine can be traced back around 7,000 years. There is ample evidence of wine being produced in the time of the Phoenicians, who were excellent mariners and would transport their wines in clay amphorae to every country their boats could reach. But far from resting on its ancient laurels, the present-day Lebanese wine industry is a story of passion, ingenuity, resilience and craftsmanship.

Cantine Volpi is the epitome of what Italy does best – fusing native grape varieties and tradition with innovative winemaking techniques and astute marketing. Fifth-generation winegrower Marco Volpi pinpoints some of the landmark moments in the company’s 100-year history, and details its plans for the future.

In 2022, the Rhone Valley marketed 329 million bottles and shipped wines to 186 countries, making it one of France’s premier wine regions. Amidst a galaxy of legendary appellations like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côte-Rôtie and Crozes-Hermitage, five less publicised southern growths each offer some incredible pours.

A climate with little rainfall and plenty of sunshine has traditionally promoted healthy vines and wines in Argentina. However, a growing number of wineries are securing international certifications for their organic and biodynamic wines. And the trend is quickly gaining traction.

In recent years, 'low alcohol' and 'no alcohol' wines have become increasingly popular. The combination of a consumer shift towards a healthier lifestyle and the growing focus on responsible driving has pushed the wine industry to innovate and offer lighter alternatives without sacrificing taste and character. The trend is one that Italian wineries have been keen to tap into.