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G.H. Mumm Appoints Trina Smith as Terroirs Pacific Winemaker, Strengthening Sparkling Wine Excellence Across Australasia

G.H. Mumm has appointed award-winning winemaker Trina Smith as Mumm Terroirs Pacific Winemaker, overseeing production across Australia and New Zealand. Recognized as one of Australia’s foremost sparkling wine specialists, Smith brings over two decades of global experience spanning California, South Africa, and Italy.

Based in the Barossa Valley, she will lead winemaking for the Mumm Terroirs Collection, including Marlborough Prestige Brut, Brut Rosé, Central Otago Blanc de Noirs, and Tasmania Prestige Brut, while collaborating with the Maison’s Chef de Cave and regional growers.

Smith’s appointment reinforces Mumm’s commitment to crafting wines that express the unique terroirs of Marlborough, Central Otago, and Tasmania, three of the Southern Hemisphere’s leading cool-climate regions. Her leadership follows the successful launch of the Mumm Tasmania Prestige Brut (2022), a benchmark for Tasmanian sparkling wines and a reflection of the region’s growing significance, now accounting for over 40% of Tasmania’s total wine production.

Trina Smith states: “I’m thrilled to step into this role and continue building on Mumm’s legacy in Australasia. My focus will be on crafting wines that truly express the character of our region. Marlborough, Central Otago and Tasmania are world-renowned cool-climate regions, producing sparkling wines of exceptional finesse, energy and character and I look forward to shining an international light on our sparkling wines.”

Barton & Guestier Unveils Limited-Edition Côtes de Provence “Tourmaline” in Collaboration with Isaure Atelier

Barton & Guestier (B&G), one of Bordeaux’s oldest wine houses, celebrating 300 years of French winemaking history, announces the release of the limited-edition Côtes de Provence “Tourmaline” 2024, created in collaboration with Montreal-based French artist Isaure Atelier. Known for her instinctive, expressive style, Atelier brings a fresh, vibrant interpretation to the iconic B&G bottle, all while capturing the spirit of the Mediterranean in a collectible design.

A self-taught artist based between Montreal and Paris, Isaure Atelier is recognized for bold forms, radiant palettes, and feminine, sensual silhouettes. For this special edition, she drew inspiration from the delicate hues of rosé quartz and the sun-drenched landscapes of southern France. The result is a 100% screen-printed, tailor-made design that transforms “Tourmaline” into a work of art—instantly recognizable on the shelf and deeply expressive in hand.

“I love to live life through colourful creations,” says Isaure Atelier. “When Barton & Guestier invited me to design for this special edition, I immediately imagined the warmth of Provence, the elegance of the French Riviera, and the feeling of sharing summer apéritifs under the sun. “That’s the story I wanted to tell through the artwork.”

The 2024 vintage stays true to “Tourmaline’s” signature character, showcasing a delicate pale pink hue and a vibrant aromatic profile of ripe peach, apricot, and crisp apple, layered with notes of raspberry and pomegranate. On the palate, it’s fresh, lively, and beautifully balanced, finishing clean with a lingering touch of red fruit, a true collector’s item for rosé lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

Building on the success of the previous vintages, which earned Double Gold at The Fifty Best Rosé and Grand Gold at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, the 2024 vintage arrives as French rosé continues to dominate the U.S. market, growing at an average annual rate of 5% since 2019.

“B&G ‘Tourmaline’ reflects the best of who we are: timeless yet modern, rooted in tradition while always evolving,” says Carlos Varela, CEO of Barton & Guestier. “Collaborating with Isaure Atelier allowed us to bring that vision to life in a way that celebrates both art and wine. As the rosé category continues to thrive, we’re proud to offer a release that marries exceptional craftsmanship with meaningful, beautiful design.”

Raise Your Glass to New Zealand for International Pinot Noir Day – August 18th

There’s something irresistibly seductive about Pinot Noir. It’s the grape varietal that makes sommeliers swoon, winemakers sweat, and wine lovers fall head over heels. And while Burgundy may have long been considered its spiritual home, New Zealand has been quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) redefining the Pinot Noir conversation.

This August 18th, as the wine world raises a glass to International Pinot Noir Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate New Zealand’s most captivating red wine export.

Pinot Noir was first planted in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand’s North Island in 1883, but it wasn’t until 1987 that it was commercially released. By the 1990s, gold medals in Australia and London had propelled New Zealand Pinot Noir onto the global stage. Suddenly, whispers of a “new Pinot powerhouse” were spreading around the wine world.

“New Zealand Pinot Noir is something else,” says Charlotte Read, General Manager Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers. “It leads with a concentrated core of fruit, supported by a vibrant backbone of acidity thanks to our cool climate, and displays the hallmark fragrance and elegant, fine-grained tannins that great Pinots possess. It’s exciting to observe the distinct regional styles that emerge from differences in soil type and climate across the areas where Pinot Noir is grown in New Zealand.”

Pinot Noir is now among the top five most searched red varietals globally, with Wine-Searcher reporting an increase from 10.5% to 15.5% of total search market share. Within New Zealand, Pinot Noir accounted for 32.4% of wine searches in 2024, second only to Sauvignon Blanc.

And it’s not just hype; it’s in the glass. Lively acidity, silky tannins, and versatile food-friendliness make it a natural companion for a wide range of dishes, from roast chicken and salmon to mushroom risotto and duck confit. With more wine lovers gravitating toward fresher, chillable reds, Pinot Noir is perfectly suited to the modern table.

It’s no surprise that Pinot Noir has become New Zealand’s top red wine variety and the country’s second-largest wine export after Sauvignon Blanc, with over 1.5 million cases shipped annually to more than 100 countries. Exports alone reached $2.1 billion in 2024.

So, this International Pinot Noir Day, why not pour yourself a glass and discover why this grape has captured the world’s imagination?

My picks for the occasion:

  • Tarras Central Otago Pinot Noir – vibrant, rich, full-bodied and endlessly drinkable
  • Thornbury Pinot Noir 2019 – classic structure with a rich, fruit-driven
  • Lord Rutherford Pinot Noir 2013 – a cellar gem that showcases how gracefully New Zealand Pinot can age

Raise your glass, take a sip, and let New Zealand Pinot Noir remind you why wine can be both playful and profound!

Porto Reimagined: How Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel Is Defining a New Model for Wine Tourism in Northern Portugal

An exclusive interview by Liz Palmer with Francisco Viana Brito, General Manager

Northern Portugal has long lured travellers with its riverside romance, cobbled streets, and legendary port wine. But now, a new chapter in luxury hospitality is unfolding along the banks of the Douro. At the heart of it sits Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, a property that bridges centuries of winemaking tradition with contemporary elegance. In this exclusive interview, I sit down with Francisco Viana Brito, General Manager of Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, to explore how this hotel is reshaping wine tourism in Porto, offering guests not just a stay, but a sensory journey rooted in the heritage of the world’s oldest port wine house.

Exclusive interview with Francisco Viana Brito, General Manager

General Hotel Concept + Vision

Liz Pamer: What inspired the concept behind this new luxury property in Porto, and does it tie into Kopke and its wine and port culture?

Francisco Viana Brito: The concept behind the Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia is deeply inspired by the rich legacy of Kopke, the oldest Port wine house, founded in 1638. The hotel was developed through the restoration of former Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, aiming to deliver a luxury experience that pays tribute to the region’s winemaking heritage. The connection to wine culture is reflected throughout the property: the presence of the Kopke wine cellars, with exclusive access from within the hotel or the opportunity to enjoy exclusive and distinctive Kopke Port wine tastings. Even the hotel’s design is inspired by the world of wine, with beige and burgundy tones, rich wood accents, and textured walls all reflecting the elegance and legacy of Kopke. We want every stay here to be a sensory journey through the history, flavour, and soul of the Douro Valley.

Liz Pamer: How does the hotel reflect the identity of Northern Portugal’s wine heritage, especially Port wine and the Douro Valley?

Francisco Viana Brito: Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia was designed as a true tribute to the wine identity of Northern Portugal, with a special focus on Port wine and the Douro Valley. From its privileged location in Vila Nova de Gaia, the heartland of the great Port wine houses, to the integration of the original Kopke cellars, the hotel embodies this heritage through its architecture, interior design inspired by wine elements, exclusive access to Kopke wine tastings, and a gastronomic offering that celebrates the region’s flavours and traditions.

Liz Pamer: Was wine tourism a strategic consideration in the hotel’s design and development phase?

Francisco Viana Brito: The entire narrative of the hotel, from interior design to culinary offerings, was crafted to deliver an immersive experience into the world of Port wine and the Douro Valley. Our goal was to create not just a place to stay, but a true destination where luxury hospitality meets the region’s wine culture.

Wine Tourism Experiences

Liz Pamer: Francisco, can you describe your wine tourism packages or experiences the hotel offers guests (e.g., vineyard tours, tastings, river cruises)?

Francisco Viana Brito: At Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, we’ve curated a selection of wine experiences designed to immerse our guests in the rich culture of Port wine. A key highlight is the opportunity to enjoy exclusive and distinctive Kopke Port wine tastings, held in dedicated spaces within the hotel. In addition, guests can enjoy wine-pairing dinners, Port-inspired cocktails at the Sky Bar Kopke, and relaxing moments overlooking the Douro River, always accompanied by a premium wine selection. All of these experiences can be explored and booked through our official Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia website (here), where we regularly update our offerings.

Liz Pamer: Are there any exclusive wine tastings, cellar dinners, or events hosted on-site?

Francisco Viana Brito: Yes, at Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia we offer truly exclusive experiences that blend the best of wine culture with the sophistication of our hospitality. One of the highlights is the opportunity to host private gala dinners and banquets for groups inside the historic wine cellars. These exclusive events offer a unique and memorable setting where the legacy of Port wine meets refined service, ideal for corporate gatherings, celebrations, or special group occasions. At our 1638 Restaurant & Wine Bar by Nacho Manzano, guests can embark on a sensory journey through a tasting menu that pays tribute to Kopke’s wine heritage. Inspired by his Asturian roots and the Atlantic richness of the Portuguese coast, Chef Nacho, awarded three Michelin stars, crafts a refined fusion of Iberian flavours, paired with Kopke Port wines and Douro DOC still wines.

Liz Pamer: How do you cater to international guests interested in exploring Portugal’s other wine routes?

Francisco Viana Brito: We understand that many of our international guests arrive at Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia with a strong interest in discovering not only Port wine, but also Portugal’s other renowned wine regions. That’s why we’ve developed tailored experiences and dedicated concierge services to help guests explore the country’s diverse wine routes. Through partnerships with trusted local operators and prestigious estates, we organize private tours to the Douro Valley (to Quinta de São Luiz), including transportation, expert guides, and curated tastings. Our team is also available to recommend personalized wine travel itineraries, tailored to each guest’s preferences, ensuring an authentic and enriching experience across Portugal. These suggestions and bookings can be arranged directly at the hotel or via our official Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia website.

F+B + Wine List Integration

Liz Pamer: How is your wine program curated; do you focus mainly on Kopke’s wines and Ports

Francisco Viana Brito: Our wine program has been carefully curated to reflect the identity of Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia and its historic connection to the Kopke brand. Naturally, Kopke Port wines are at the heart of our offering, with a selection that includes iconic labels such as the Kopke 30-Year-Old Tawny, among other vintages and styles that showcase the excellence of the oldest Port wine house.

Liz Pamer: Is there an in-house sommelier or wine director, and do you offer guided tastings or food and wine pairings?

Francisco Viana Brito: Yes, at Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia we have an in-house sommelier whose role is to guide our guests through a deeper exploration of the region’s wine culture. Their expertise ensures a personalized experience, whether through wine tastings or curated food and wine pairings. We offer Kopke Port wine tastings in exclusive areas of the hotel, designed to deliver a refined and educational sensory journey. At the 1638 Restaurant & Wine Bar by Nacho Manzano, our tasting menu is a true gastronomic journey, with each dish thoughtfully paired with Kopke Ports and Douro DOC still wines.

Liz Pamer: What role does other local wine play in the guest dining experience, from breakfast to fine dining?

Francisco Viana Brito: Even in more informal moments, such as breakfast or at the Sky Bar, our guests have the opportunity to enjoy and discover Portuguese wines and sparkling wines, through light pairings and wine-based cocktails that celebrate the national terroir. Our commitment is to deliver a complete and cohesive experience, where wine, in all its expressions, is present throughout the day as a reflection of Portugal’s culture, hospitality, and excellence.

Cultural & Sustainability Aspects

Liz Pamer: How do you incorporate the local wine culture and traditions into the guest experience, from architecture to amenities?

Francisco Viana Brito: Architecturally, the hotel pays tribute to the region’s winemaking heritage, with design elements that evoke the old Douro wine estates and cellars: burgundy and beige tones, natural wood, textured walls, and a classic ambiance that reflects Kopke’s legacy, all seamlessly combined with the timeless elegance that defines the Tivoli Hotels & Resorts brand. At the Tivoli Spa, the connection to wine heritage is elevated into a truly sensory experience with the exclusive “The Essence of Kopke” massage. Inspired by the ancestral history of Port wine, this multi-sensory ritual begins with heated schist stones, symbolizing the earth and helping to deeply relax the body. It is followed by a mantle of aromatic cork stoppers, carefully placed to harmonize the chakras and promote energetic balance. The ritual culminates in a luxurious massage using a heated wine-infused candle, enriched with nourishing oils, resveratrol, and grape extract, enveloping the body while nourishing the skin and revitalizing the senses. A true celebration of the Douro terroir, transformed into wellness.

Liz Pamer: Is sustainability a key part of your wine tourism offering, for example, eco-friendly winery visits or local sourcing?

Francisco Viana Brito: Sustainability is a fundamental pillar of our wine tourism offering. At Tivoli Kopke, we are deeply committed to promoting authentic and conscious experiences that respect the natural and cultural heritage of the Douro Valley. For example, we offer a Green Stay option for bookings longer than one night, where guests can opt out of housekeeping services, embracing our mission to reduce water, energy, and resource consumption. In return, the hotel offers a complimentary drink to encourage this sustainable choice. We also prioritize local sourcing, whether in the wines we present, the ingredients used in our gastronomic experiences, or the partners we collaborate with, strengthening our connection to the community and reducing our environmental footprint. We believe that luxury can and should go hand in hand with environmental responsibility, and we continuously strive to innovate and evolve our offering in line with this sustainable vision.

Marketing + Target Markets

Liz Pamer: What type of wine tourist are you hoping to attract: seasoned connoisseurs, curious novices, or lifestyle travellers?

Francisco Viana Brito: At Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, we aim to attract a diverse profile of wine tourists, from seasoned connoisseurs who appreciate the depth and legacy of Port wine to curious novices eager to explore this world in an accessible and engaging way. At the same time, our hotel is also designed for lifestyle travellers seeking authentic, sensory, and memorable experiences. The blend of Kopke’s wine heritage, signature gastronomy, wellness at the Tivoli Spa, and our privileged location overlooking the Douro creates the perfect setting for those who see wine as part of a sophisticated and culturally rich lifestyle. Our mission is to offer experiences that cater to all levels of interest and knowledge, always with the quality and elegance that define the Tivoli brand.

Liz Pamer: How are you positioning Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel internationally within the wine tourism space? Are you collaborating with tourism boards or influencers?

Francisco Viana Brito: Internationally, we are positioning Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia as a premium wine tourism destination, blending the authenticity of Douro’s wine heritage with the sophistication of the Tivoli brand. To strengthen this positioning, we have been developing regular collaborations with wine and travel journalists, as well as influencers, alongside partnerships with tourism boards. These initiatives are a strategic priority for us, as they allow us to effectively communicate the uniqueness of our offering to discerning audiences with a passion for wine and culture. Through these efforts, we aim not only to attract a wide range of travellers but also to help establish Northern Portugal as a leading destination for wine tourism.

Vision for the Future

Liz Pamer: Francisco, how do you see Porto evolving as a luxury wine tourism destination, and what role will your hotel play in this growth?

Francisco Viana Brito: Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia plays an active role in this evolution, positioning itself as a flagship for luxury wine hospitality. Through our connection to the Kopke brand, our curated wine experiences, signature gastronomy, and wellness offerings inspired by the Douro terroir, we provide guests with a unique way to experience wine with elegance, authenticity, and cultural depth. We believe our hotel helps elevate Porto’s international profile, attracting discerning travellers in search of memorable and distinctive experiences, and reinforcing the city’s position as a world-class wine tourism destination.

Liz Pamer: Are there any future plans to host wine-focused festivals, events, or residencies at the hotel?

Francisco Viana Brito: Yes, we have a strong ambition to establish Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia as a premier venue for signature wine-focused events, and this vision is part of our medium-term strategy.

Thank you, Francisco! I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to speak with you. Your time and expertise provided valuable insights into the distinguished heritage and vision of Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia.

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia isn’t just another luxury hotel; it’s a refined tribute to Northern Portugal’s soulful wine legacy. With its immersive experiences, Michelin-starred dining, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity and sustainability, the property offers guests the rare opportunity to live the story of port wine from inside the barrel room to the rooftop bar. For wine lovers, design enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike, this is more than a hotel; it’s a destination.

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Website: https://www.tivolihotels.com/en/tivoli-kopke-porto-gaia

Exploring the “Wines of Portugal” Tasting Room in Lisbon’s Terreiro do Paço

Lisbon’s vibrant energy flows through its grand avenues, pastel façades, and historic waterfront, yet one of its most compelling experiences lies quietly in a corner of the city’s most iconic square. Tucked into the western wing of Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, the Wines of Portugal Tasting Room, operated by ViniPortugal, offers an exceptional immersion into the diversity and depth of Portuguese wine.

Once the site of Portugal’s Royal Palace during the reigns of King Manuel I (1511) and King José I (1755), this square has witnessed centuries of seismic change, both literally and figuratively. Following the devastating 1755 earthquake, Praça do Comércio was rebuilt in the elegant Pombaline architectural style and has since become a symbol of Portuguese resilience, culture, and commerce. Today, the surrounding buildings house government ministries, sleek restaurants, curated shops, and cultural spaces; seamlessly blending past and present.

At the heart of this transformation sits the Wines of Portugal Tasting Room, a sanctuary for oenophiles. The space offers a self-guided or sommelier-led journey through more than 1,000 wines from across Portugal’s diverse regions, from the granite-soiled vineyards of the Vinho Verde DOC to the sun-drenched plains of Alentejo, and from Douro’s legendary quintas to the volcanic terroir of the Azores.

A visit to the Wines of Portugal Tasting Room is not just about tasting; it’s about time-traveling through the country’s enological heritage, told through native grapes like Touriga Nacional, Baga, Encruzado, and Arinto.

Location:
Terreiro do Paço, 1100-148 Lisboa, Portugal
Further details: www.viniportugal.pt