Discovery

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.

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.

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.

The outstanding 2024 crop is helping Georgia recover from the challenging conditions of the previous year, with pressure from war bubbling just beneath the surface. The country’s orange wine is garnering international acclaim. In fact, Georgia secured an endorsement, not only for the colour by OIV but also a Unesco Intangible Heritage listing for this ancient form of winemaking. Despite this, orange wine accounts for just 5% of production in a country that boasts over 500 native grapevines. We focus on some of its iconic wineries.

Founded in 2004 by Alex and Carrie Vik in Millahue, Chile—known as "The Place of Gold"—VIK Winery is a testament to innovation and sustainability in winemaking. Combining state-of-the-art technology, ancient traditions, and a deep respect for nature, VIK has become a benchmark for producing world-class wines.

In just 25 years, the province of Mendoza in Argentina has developed an outstanding gourmet food scene through its connections with wine. Today it stands out as the Ibero-American Capital of Gastronomic Harmony and is one of the two Argentine cities included in the Michelin Guide.