Concert & Closing Ceremony of CMB 2024
The Glass of Wine concert with Filipe Giordano & Daniel Boaventura evening which turned in to a night of dancing. Closing Gala at Borbón Mansion León A beautiful end to a glorious four days in #guanajuato #mexico An evening of gastronomy, an 89th birthday celebration for Louis Harvaux, founder of @concoursmondial and of course a whole lot of dancing 💃 My heartfelt thank you to all the organizers and everyone involved, my first #cmbguanajuato2024 was unforgettable experience. This is not goodbye but until we meet again, santé 🥂
Welcome to Jalpa de Cánovas
Jalpa de Cánovas is a charming town located in Guanajuato, Mexico. It boasts a rich history, cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture and a scenic surrounding admise agave fields, making it a hidden gem for travelers. The town’s cobblestone streets, adorned with colonial architecture, transport visitors back in time. At the heart of Jalpa lies the iconic Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol, a magnificent church that showcases the town’s religious devotion. Surrounded by lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls, Jalpa de Cánovas offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the nearby Sierra Madre Occidental, hike through pristine forests, or simply relax by the tranquil waters of the region’s rivers. The town began as a hacienda, a large estate, founded by Don Manuel Cánovas. Hence the town’s name reflects his legacy. Immerse yourself in this magical setting as we did over lunch one beautiful afternoon. A big thanks to @concoursmondial @gobiernogto for organizing such a unique experience. Link to my Jalpa de Canovas reel on Instagram
The Vibrant City of Guanajuato
Guanajuato City is a vibrant and historic city in central Mexico. It’s known for its winding cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and rich mining history. Here are some of the most emblematic areas you shouldn’t miss: 🔺Guanajuato Historic Center: This is the heart of the city, filled with colorful buildings, charming plazas, and Baroque churches. 🔺Templo de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Society of Jesus) It’s believed to be one of the largest churches built by the Jesuits in Mexico, constructed between 1746 and 1765. 🔺The Universidad de Guanajuato (UG) is a public university in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. 🔺Plaza de la Paz: This lively square is the center of social life in Guanajuato 🔺Underground Tunnels: Guanajuato is known for its network of underground tunnels, which were originally used to transport silver ore from the mines. 🔺El Pipila Monument: This monument stands on a hill overlooking the city and honors Juan José Martínez, a hero of the Mexican War of Independence. 🔺The Mummies of Guanajuato: One of the most unique attractions in Guanajuato is the Museo de las Momias (Mummy Museum) where we had our welcome glass of rosado @vinicolatresraices in the lovely courtyard. 🔺Followed by dinner at Esplanade of Alhóndiga de Granadiylyas hosted by the Governor of Guanajuato Many thanks to @concoursmondial @gobiernogto for an amazing day in #guanajuatocity and to our tour guide Salvatore @gobiernogto his enthusiasm and passion for the city was infectious 👏👏 Link to Guanajuato reel on Instagram.
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2024 Mexico Edition
ᴀɴ ᴇxᴘᴇʀɪᴇɴᴄᴇ ʟɪᴋᴇ ɴᴏ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ #cmbguanajuato2024 It was an incredible honor to be amongst the 350 judges of the prestigious Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2024 in beautiful Guanajuato, Mexico. Link to the CMB 2024 reel on Instagram. An unforgettable journey of 7,500 wines with representatives from 45 countries (each table tasted 135 wines over 3 days except our table was fortunate to taste 8 rosés) A big thank you to all of the organizers, the volunteers and everyone involved from @concoursmondial @guanajuato_mex who made the event such a memorabl experience 🇲🇽 Join me we celebrate this magical four day adventure of high quality wines, the oenotour, the history, the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of the Guanajuato region. Photos include the competition, evening concert and closing lunch with introduction of next year’s CMB 2025 in Yinchuan, China.
The Romance Of English Rosé
A romantic rosé with intriguing nuances @drink.folc Elisha and Tom Cannon were enchanted by the classical Provence style rosé- they wanted to make a wine that was 💯 English, be better, be bolder, be amazing. Further inspiration came from the Old English word for tribe, Folc and so the dream was born named despite not owning a vine to their name. An intriguing blend whereby each contributes its own character to the final wine (some grapes may be new to you) – Pinot Noir Précoce (43%), Pinot Meunier (19%), Pinot Noir (17%), Pinot Gris (8%), Chardonnay (7%), Bacchus (3%) and Ortega (3%). The grapes are locally sourced from small, family owned grape growers in Kent, Sussex with a maturation of 5 months in stainless steel. 𝓕𝓸𝓵𝓬 𝓡𝓸𝓼é 2023 ▫️Pours into the glass a flirtation of salmon pink in color, with a hint of coral. ▫️Delicate and inviting, the aromas of juicy strawberries, raspberries, red currant are accompanied by a plethora of citrus zest followed by lychee and honeycomb. English floral garden aplenty of elderflower and rose petal add a floral complexity along with the dusty minerality. ▫️Wait for the hook moment – the first sip has makes you swoon with its graceful precision. Classic Provence styles body with a lively, refreshing texture. The English trademark high acidity is so enthralling, I can’t stress it enough. ▫️A fling of citrus bursts at every turn, from tangerine to pink grapefruit to lemon layered with field berries, white peach, green apple, honeysuckle, rose petals and savory minerality. What can I say, it’s the kind of rosé that hooks you with its amorous qualities – so clean, precise and bright. Paired with a fried flounder gougons, chicken, roast chicken bacon bites or a tomato corn orzo basil salad 💕Thank you so much for this precious bottle as Folc makes a limited amount of each vintage and sell our ridiculously quickly so get yours asap at @drink.folc Link to my reel on Folc Rosé on Instagram Folc Rosé Such a charmer of a rosé from Elisha & Tom Cannon, they focus on one wine and they do it flawlessly. It is the embodiment of a dream brought to life. Note: I had the pleasure of tasting the last three vintages (thanks for introducing me to this lovely @abvtastings a unique touch is the bottle has been different each year.
Where Rosé Dreams Are Made in Côtes De Provence
Where rosé dreams are made in the Côtes de Provence with the partnership of @edmondderothschildheritage & @chateauroubine Amistà raises a glass to friendship (Amistà means friendship in Occitan) and exceptional quality. Under the leadership of Ariane de Rothschild and Valérie Rousselle, this exquisite creation embodies the essence of a life well-lived and exceptional terroir. Carefully managed sustainable practices & selected from the cru-classed vineyards of Château Roubine, blend of predominantly Grenache with Cindault, Mourvedre & Tibouren. Amistà Rosé 2023 The quintessential style of rosé, a Provence rosé is distinguishable by its very pretty light salmon pink, shading towards orange. But do not dismiss it as a frail wine, au contraire… it bursts with aromas of pink grapefruit and lemon with rose water, violets; wild strawberry, white peach and minerals. The first sip coats your mouth with its creamy texture and just shy medium body thanks to the ripe sunkissed from the sunshine coast. A dry style rosé, big & rich yet subtly so refreshing splash of citrus followed by the fruity hello sensation of the aromas along with red raspberry, watermelon and dried herbs. The floral notes come to the forefront near the finish with a black currant leaf; slight bitter lemon peel and saline minerality. It has a nice momentum from the first sip to the lingering finish. It’s delicate yet expressive sophisticated and highly drinkable wine. The pairing possibilities are endless thanks to the bright acidity & style… classic Mediterranean dishes – soulful bouillabaisse (traditional seafood stew) with a saffron aïoli, a tuna niçoise pasta salad, or tomato and basil tart. Link to my reel on Amista Rosé Instagram Many thanks to @edmondderothschildheritage for gifting me this pretty rosé. Next stop in our rosé journey brings us to Kent, England.
CFM Dedication From Dutcher Crossing
ɪ ᴄᴀɴɴᴏᴛ ꜱᴛʀᴇꜱꜱ ʜᴏᴡ ᴍᴜᴄʜ ɪ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛʜɪꜱ ꜱᴘᴇᴄɪᴀʟ ᴡɪɴᴇ from Dutcher Crossing. Oh do let me count the ways: ▫️it’s unique character ▫️the layered complexity ▫️a hommage to owner Debra Mathy’s father who inspired her to follow her dreams of owning a winery ▫️100% of the proceeds from this wine 100% of proceeds go to the Melanoma Research Foundation A cool climate Sauvignon Blanc sourced the Duff Bevill’s Hall Road Vineyard in Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California. Fermented and aged for 15 months in new oak cigar barrels, TINY production of 696 bottles. ᴄꜰᴍ ꜱᴀᴜᴠɪɢɴᴏɴ ʙʟᴀɴᴄ 2021 In the glass, a vibrant gleam of summer sun. A swirl releases fragrant tales of the Sauvignon Blanc’s personality – passionfruit, white peach, lemongrass, lime and grapefruit zest kisses. Fold in the fresh cilantro, jalapeño, honeysuckle, grass, sea salt, an influence of bread dough and vanilla. The first sip is a lovely dance of a green goddess – fresh herbs like chervil & cilantro, unctuous tropical romance (add in kiwi to the mix), gooseberry interwoven with fresh cream, bread dough, honeyed pears and lemon meringue pie filling. The finish is lithe, lingering with a coastal breeze, citrus peel & ginger. A cleansing lift with every sip, 13.3 % abv (love it) & a wave of flavorful harmony that’s bright and present. Dutcher Crossing crafted a special pairing treat for this particular wine – Thai Curry Cashews 😋 A summer wine’s charm in every glow. Magnificent! ‼️ SUPPORT a worthy cause by purchasing this bottle ASAP – go to @dutchercrossing
Rebelle Of A Champagne
🥂Closing the chapter on last Thursday’s live with @iola.wines a “rebelle” and all around wonderful lady of 10 generations of champagne winemaking , Christine of @piotsevillano A brilliant winemaker (see my post on my visit last December), a spirited woman reflected in her beautifully expressive champagnes and clever winemaking, This champagne is 100% Chardonnay from the Meunier dominant Vincelles in the Vallée de la Marne. An area known to locals as “Petit Ay” because this area is to Meunier what Aÿ is to Pinot Noir. A 100% Chardonnay with a dosage of 6,5 g/l, the wines is made from 90% of reserve wines from 2019 and 10% of reserve wines from 2018 aged in oak barrels, aged for 3 years due lie. 🥂Hold me closer tiny dancer as the delicate bubbles rise up in the glass. The first swirl is incredibly generous in its aromas as is the first sip darlings – ripe stone fruit, baked apple & quince, lemon curd, smoke, minerals, brioche, honey and marzipan. 🥂First sip is a hallmark of Chardonnay flexing its muscles of its terroir – the dominant sandy with limestone undertone is evident in the fruit – rounder and embracing with a mineral backbone sending signals of elegance and richness harmoniously balanced: it has the best of both worlds. The style is clearly its own terroir with a clear passion of winemaking backing its character. Unlike the Cote de Blancs style which is searing in its acidity, linear and mineral driven, this lovely is full of floral bouquet, quince jam, lemon curd, yellow plum, cultured cream and mushroom umami all wrapped in a bow of lengthy finish of toasted hazelnuts. Nicely balanced mouthfeel with a creamy hug. The kind of blanc de blancs that will please any champagne disbeliever because it’s perfectly balanced between acidity and sweetness. Pair with succulent oysters, crab cakes, or ceviche also enjoy chicken cutlets with a lemon sauce or soft cheeses. Heck who needs food with a lovely champagne this good.
POV – A Day In Beautiful Çanakkale
The Gelibolu Peninsula, also known as Gallipoli, is a part of the Thrace wine region in Turkey. This region is known for blending history, mythology, and viticulture, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers. The vineyards here benefit from cool breezes coming in from both the Aegean and Marmara Seas, and a largely temperate climate. This unique combination results in the production of wonderful wines. Gelibolu wineries produce wines from both indigenous grapes like Karasakız and Kınalı Yapıncak, and international varieties like Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, and Grenache. One winery, Gali winery, is known for its stunning Merlot-based wines in the style of Pomerol, a famous wine region in Bordeaux, France. First stop at Melen Winery & Vineyards, where passion meets terroir driven wines. Melen Winery is on of the oldest artisanal wineries in Hoşköy, Thrace region of Turkiye located on the beautiful Marmara Sea. They are known for their delicious wines and beautiful vineyard setting rich in volcanic soils. This is the type of winery whereby visitors can enjoy wine tastings and meals at the winery’s restaurant, which boasts gorgeous sea views. Melen produces a variety of red and white wines, including their popular Melen Hora white wine. They use grapes grown in the Tekirdag region, which is known for its ideal climate for viticulture. Cem, a third-generation winemaker along with his son, led us on a journey through the winery’s history during our delicious lunch. Our host’s infectious enthusiasm and smile, along with the exceptional wines we tasted, left no doubt about his passion for winemaking. Each dish was thoughtfully paired with a complementary wine from his collection. He even shared a rare treasure: a 1955 vintage made by his father, a wine that held deep personal significance. This very bottle, he revealed, graced the table when he proposed to his wife. Following lunch, we embarked on a tour of the St. Ioannis Greek monastery ruins located on the property. Restoration efforts are currently underway on this historical site. Interestingly, the winery’s logo draws inspiration from the seal adorning amphorae, vessels used for wine storage in the region since ancient times. Next, a visit to Gali Wines is a winery founded in 2005 by Hakan Kavur and his wife, Nilgün, in Turkey’s Thrace region, close to the Gulf of Saros . The Kavurs specifically designed their boutique winery and cellar using local stones, which naturally regulate humidity and temperature. The winery produces mostly Bordeaux style red wines. They are currently restoring the old bunkers from World War II to be naturally insulated cellars. This concludes an incredible #presstour a heartily thanks to @goturkiye @melinamass @elcinozi @serhatnarsap for organizing a spectacular and unforgettable trip through #istanbul #tekirdağ & #çanakkale Link to Instagram reel: Canakkale
POV – Arrived In Tekirdag
ᴘᴏᴠ ʏᴏᴜ’ᴠᴇ ᴀʀʀɪᴠᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴛᴇᴋɪʀᴅᴀĞ ᴏɴ ᴅᴀʏ 3 ᴏꜰ ᴛᴜʀᴋɪʏᴇ ᴘʀᴇꜱꜱ ᴛᴏᴜʀ @goturkiye Thrace, known as Trakya in Turkish, boasts a viticulture heritage stretching back millennia. Homer himself, in his epic Iliad, referenced the region’s prized “honey-sweet black wine.” Generations of local farmers have capitalized on Thrace’s ideal winemaking conditions: fertile soil, flat plains, and a perfect climate. The secret ingredient? The land’s volcanic past. Early volcanic activity gifted Thrace with rich, fertile soil, providing the foundation for exceptional grape cultivation. The Thrace Vineyard Route winds through four main areas: Kırklareli, Tekirdağ, Şarköy, and Gelibolu. The route itself is a scenic journey, traversing mountains, forests, and diverse microclimates influenced by three surrounding seas: the Marmara, Aegean, and Black Seas. In the Tekirdağ area, the mature wines produced by local wineries are delicious and balanced, with distinctive flavors. The Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Gamay, Kalecik Karası, Merlot, Papazkarası, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillion, Shiraz, and Viognier varieties are widely planted. 🔺First stop was Pia Mare Hotel & Restaurant overlooking the beautiful Marmara Sea offers serenity and gastronomic delights. A beautiful experience with wines hand selected by our @serhatnarsap representing the region with its culinary delights (see attached menu) wines from @sarivadibaglari @akbergwines @chateaumurou Then we visited two regional wineries: 🔺Badur Vineyards @badurfamily are a small boutique winery that started as hobby turned into a passion winemaking endeavor. Their focus is on Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blends producing less than 8,000 bottle per year. We had the opportunity to taste a tank sample of their 2023 100% Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 🍷 🔺Barbare Vineyards @barbarevineyards has a convivial restaurant and terrace overlooking the beautiful countryside focusing on sustainable winemaking and low yield viticulture. Thank you so much to all of our hosts for a memorable experience in Tekirdağ. Next stop Canakkale – stay tuned 🍷🍷 Link to Instagram reel: Tekirdag