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 […]
The World of Fine Wine has just unveiled the winners of the 2025 World’s Best Wine Lists – Regional Category Awards, which honour outstanding achievements in global wine hospitality. Following a rigorous evaluation process, leading establishments across six major global regions: Asia, Australasia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, North America, and South & Central
Tucked into the western benchlands of Oakville, Opus One stands as a beacon of sophistication and legacy in Napa Valley winemaking. During a recent visit, I was invited to experience a rare vertical tasting that spanned some of the estate’s most celebrated vintages. This exclusive encounter offered more than a glimpse into the artistry behind
An Exclusive Encounter with Opus One: A Vertical Tasting of Napa’s Crown Jewel Read More »
The global wine tourism sector demonstrated exceptional growth and resilience in 2024, according to The Global Wine Tourism Market 2024 report, published by Vinetur on July 16, 2025. Despite a challenging year for wine production and consumption worldwide, wine tourism emerged as a dynamic and vital segment within the broader tourism and beverage industries. Market
Global Wine Tourism Soars in 2024 Despite Historic Lows in Production and Consumption Read More »
In a momentous acknowledgment of her exceptional contributions to viticulture and French cultural heritage, Carol Duval-Leroy, President of Maison Duval-Leroy, has been named Officer of the Legion of Honour, one of France’s highest civilian accolades. This prestigious distinction not only honours her unwavering dedication to the Champagne region but also recognizes over three decades of
I’ve come across some compelling insights from the SVB 2025 DtC Wine Report that shed light on evolving strategies in the tasting room experience. According to the report, wineries were asked under what circumstances they would waive tasting fees. Predictably, scenarios such as making a purchase or joining a wine club were frequently cited, widely
Rethinking the Tasting Room Experience: Does Waiving Fees Drive More Visitors? Read More »
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,
Exploring the “Wines of Portugal” Tasting Room in Lisbon’s Terreiro do Paço Read More »
In the heart of Portugal’s storied wine country, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary elegance, this year’s AliveTaste’25 was nothing short of a sensory revelation. Held at the magnificent Portuguese Baroque Pestana Palácio do Freixo – DOURO. The event unfolded as a harmonious symphony of taste, culture, and refined hospitality. The event was attended by an eclectic
AliveTaste’25 Elevates Portugal’s Wine + Gastronomy at Pestana Palácio do Freixo Read More »
Despite its fragmented landscapes, diverse soils, and varied climate, the Campania region of southern Italy presents a unified face to the global wine world each year through the Campania Stories event. This year’s event was held in the Vesuvius area from May 18–21 and featured over 90 producers from across Campania. It offered an exceptional
Discovering Campania’s Wine Heritage at Campania Stories 2025 Read More »
I’ve arrived in the breathtaking Douro Valley where centuries of winemaking tradition meet terraced vineyards and unforgettable landscapes. From river to ridge, this UNESCO World Heritage region tells the story of Portugal in every glass. I’m excited to explore its vineyards, meet its winemakers, and experience its remarkable wines and culture. Stay tuned for more
Exploring the Douro!! Portugal’s Most Storied Wine Region Read More »
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