Magazine

Castillon, a left-field view of the right bank
Castillon is home to over 200 winegrowers who farm an average of 10 hectares each. Evidence of winegrowing here dates back to Gallo-Roman times and yet, awareness of the region both in France and around the world is still very haphazard. We take a stab at righting this wrong.
Vermouth makes a major comeback in Spain
“Fem un vermut?” In Catalonia, an invitation to “have a vermouth” has a much broader meaning than simply the drink itself. That’s because vermouth time is an almost sacred ritual where friends gather around a glass of vermouth (or other drinks depending on everyone’s tastes), before lunch, with crisps and a few olives. The atmosphere is one of casual engagement, shared by everyone, young and old.
Reconciling wine production with conservation
Sustainability is the buzzword of the century. Yet, acting on its pivotal role in economic viability, environmental protection, and social equity is the invisible tread keeping the world alive as we know it. Globally, the wine industry is making its conservation efforts visible, and South Africa intends to remain a vital part of the conversation.
From HVE to Organic, Burgundy makes the pledge to the environment
When a legendary wine region makes a firm commitment to the environment, its status is enhanced even further. In Burgundy, the number of wineries certified High Environmental Value has doubled since 2020, a trend which mirrors the region’s long-standing quality-driven focus. Gilbert & Gaillard went to the heart of the region to find out more about the phenomenon.
Be prepared to fall in love with Crus Bourgeois wines
Are you really familiar with Bordeaux wines sporting the intriguing ‘Cru Bourgeois’ moniker on their labels? In an era of constant one-upmanship and an ocean of endorsements and superlatives, is this just one more marketing gimmick to catch the consumer’s eye, or is it genuinely meaningful? We went through the required specifications with a fine-tooth comb and quizzed the chairman of the Alliance along with various member chateaux. And here is our verdict!
Franciacorta, the symbol of Italian traditional method sparkling wine
After becoming a DOC in 1967, then securing the highly coveted DOCG endorsement in 1997, Franciacorta has gone from strength to strength. We drill down on what makes it so unique, and the producers behind this highly sought-after traditional method sparkling wine.
Cameron Diaz: From acting to making wine
For the erstwhile heroine of ‘The Mask’, ‘Charlie's Angels’ and ‘Something about Mary’, cinema is a thing of the past. After choosing to distance herself from a world of make-believe and rediscover a taste for the simpler things, it was only natural that Cameron Diaz should turn to producing wine. And just like the California belle herself, her wine certainly has character.