Magazine

It may well be overshadowed by Bordeaux in terms of reputation, but South-West France is just brimming with remarkable appellations offering unlimited flavour experiences. Still relatively under-the-radar, the appellations are very competitively priced and tick all the boxes for a broad consumer audience, both in France and overseas. We take a closer look…

Stellenbosch is the heartbeat of South African Cabernet Sauvignon, whose legacy has been nurtured here for over a century, rooted in soils as old as 600 million years. This storied region boasts a landscape sculpted by towering mountains and nuanced valleys where Cabernet Sauvignon has become inseparable from its identity. Furthering its international footprint, Stellenbosch Cabernet was founded as a collective, underscoring a decade-long journey of refining Cabernet Sauvignon and beckoning the curious Cabernet Sauvignon drinker to delve deeper.

One of its flagship lines may well be called ‘crazy bottle’ – aka Bocciamatta in Italian – but StraItalian Winemakers and its managing director Gaetano Peragine have their feet firmly on, and in, the ground.

A treasure hidden by its neighbouring appellation, Lalande-de-Pomerol shows stunning potential and a unique rendition of Merlot. Despite its proximity to the illustrious Pomerol appellation, it is often sidelined on Bordeaux’s wine scene. This does not stop the winegrowers who put their heart and soul into growing vines here, however, from crafting wines that display undeniable quality. We spoke to some of them to find out more.

Although some Spanish wine regions have traditionally produced rosés, there is no denying that the reputation of pink wines has never equalled that of the country’s reds or whites. But the winds of change are blowing, lifting the outlook for rosés. Increasingly, bodegas are embracing the huge potential for this style of wine, when it is crafted with care.

Change is afoot in the vineyards of Bulgaria, after many years of soul-searching. As the country re-emerges on the international wine scene, we take a closer look at the potential of its native grapes, which thrive alongside its well-established collection of international varietals.