Discovery

The Médoc’s village appellations put through their paces
Their names are Margaux, Moulis, Pauillac and Saint-Estèphe and they are the Médoc’s village-designated appellations. They enjoy global renown and epitomise the excellence of Bordeaux wines. But in the current lacklustre economic climate combined with declining consumption, the pace of which continues to fasten, can these Bordeaux growths continue to rely on their long-standing attributes to secure a place in export markets? As the market undergoes a paradigm shift, does terroir still make a compelling case that will guarantee their survival and long-term success?
Investing in the C(Gr)ape: Why Foreign Investors are drawn to acquiring South Africa's Wine Farms
Owning a wine farm in South Africa evokes a postcard image of scenic landscapes and an idyllic lifestyle, which has enticed many holidaymakers to stay and put down roots. The trend has also drawn substantial international investment, driven by confidence in the country's long-term potential.
How Spanish grape varieties are mirrors to their identity
Although home to propitious sites for growing wine, Spain’s main defining feature is its extensive range of native grape varieties. Whether used in blends or as single varietals, they reveal a unique character and substantiate a wine’s origin. International grape varieties like Merlot, Syrah and the Cabernets are admittedly widespread across the country, but indigenous grapes are now riding the crest of popularity.
A long-established wine producer with a modern focus
When it comes to studying market patterns and tastes, Wine of Moldova is a past master and uses the research to craft wines that follow a true strategy. This explains why the producers featured in this report say they export 95% of their wines. Moldova is also increasingly focusing on terroir: the ONVV and Wine of Moldova are planning to expand existing PGIs by adding new designations. Few competitors in the Eastern European space have this ability to adapt to each market they aim to conquer.
Chile, or how a “peculiar geography” yields very diverse wines
Due to its variety of climates, the influence of its valleys and the proximity of the Pacific Ocean, Chile has the ability to grow a wide range of varietals. Not only has it been doing so for two centuries, but now climate change is opening up the possibility of exploring new soils for its wines.
Adega Cooperativa do Cartaxo, a Portuguese success story
Times have certainly changed since the Adega do Cartaxo co-operative winery, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary, was founded. From a business with 22 vine growers mainly selling its wines in bulk, it now boasts 168 partners with revenue in the millions and wines that sell across the globe. We take a look back over this Portuguese success story.
New 2025 Crus Bourgeois classification: dividing the Médoc ?
You can feel the tension in the Bordeaux wine world in the run-up to the 2025 update of the Crus Bourgeois classification. The five-year review, managed by the Alliance des Crus Bourgeois, raises questions among producers, consumers and market players. The significance of the classification, the benefits it offers and the recent controversies surrounding it are all topics that need to be explored to gain a better understanding of the issues involved in this wine industry tradition.