History The estate was founded in 1679 by Simon van der Stel. Simon brought with him a sound knowledge of viticulture. In 1982 John Platter (wine writer) purchased the estate which was then known as Avontuur. Looking at the magnificent view, John decided to rename the wine farm Delaire Estate, meaning “From the Sky”. Laurence […]
Delaire Graff Estate, South Africa – Part ll Wine Tasting Read More »
Pinot Noir can now be included as part of the AOC Alsace Grand Crus in two territories which has been a long-awaited move for a grape variety that has perhaps been overlooked in the region. France’s appellation body, the National Institute of origin and quality (INAO) had formally approved the addition of Pinot Noir to
Pinot Noir resurgence in Alsace with two AOC’s Read More »
Italy’s 2022 vintage has needed a great deal of tactical and strategical interventions from its winemakers to reach its peak. Filippo Bartolotta speaks to producers about what can be expected from this year’s crop. It is that time of the year when the power of grapes to become wine is about to take place –
What to expect from Italy’s 2022 vintage – from Alto Adige to Sicily Read More »
I recently had the distinct pleasure of having a personal tour of Laurence Graff’s private villa also known as “Owner’s Villa” at Delaire Graff Estate. The Owners Villa is also available to rent out (by application) if available for $25,000 USD/night. The estate is anchored on the vineyard slopes of Botmanskop, high above the Helshoogte
Delaire Graff Estate, Stellenbosch, South Africa – Part 1 The Owner’s Villa Read More »
The Institute of Masters of Wine has recently revealed the questions from the 2022 MW exam, as well as the wines used in the practical or tasting assessment. The practical tasting and theory questions form the second part of MW study, with those who successfully pass this stage moving on to the final aspect of
2022 Master of Wine exam questions + wines revealed Read More »
The Bordeaux appellations of Pessac-Léognan, Pomerol and Saint-Emilion have recently been granted permission to irrigate their vines this year after heatwaves and low rainfall across the region threaten the vines with hydric stress. The weather in these areas has been extremely dry for months and French national weather service, Météo France, has reported that July
Bordeaux Allowed to Irrigate Read More »
Churchill’s is offering tourists the opportunity to participate in picking grapes and immerse themselves knee-deep in the tradition of treading the fruit under foot this September. It was just announced that Quinta da Gricha, their flagship vineyard, will welcome visits for its annual ‘Vindima’ September 10, 11 and 25th. The day begins with a grape
Churchill’s Offers “Vindima” Douro Harvest Experience Read More »
The online retailer Pacific Wines has just announced plans to open an inaugural store in London at the end of August. The store will be located on Islington High Street and will exclusively offer wines from the US, including boutique labels from California and Oregon. The business was set-up by former math teacher Rachel Gilbert
Pacific Wines embraces bricks and mortar specializing in US Wines Read More »
Andre Morgenthal, Project Manager of the Old Vine Project (South Africa) give a brief overview of the Old Vine Project, and we taste six wines from The Certified Heritage Vineyards. What a great experience! This unique initiative aims to preserve old vines in South Africa and was launched by consultant vineyard manager, Rosa Kruger in
Andre Morgenthal, Old Vine Project – South Africa Read More »
This week I’m staying at The Oude Werf Hotel, which is in the heart of the Winelands, in Stellenbosch. Stellenbosch is surrounded by the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands and the mountains of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg. Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa, dating back to 1679. The town has oak-lined streets
The Oude Werf Hotel, Stellenbosch, South Africa Read More »
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