Campania Stories: Giorno 3-Coastal Fire, Ancient Wines & the Soul of Falerno
Giorno 3 — Caserta Villa Matilde Avallone • Fattoria Pagano By Day 3, Campania no longer felt like a region. It felt like a living conversation. Every subregion carried its own rhythm, its own accent, its own emotional temperature. After the mountain tension of Irpinia and the rustic soul of Sannio, the road led us toward Caserta — where volcanic soils meet sea air, where Falerno still echoes through history, and where hospitality arrives as naturally as wine at the table. The morning returned us to the pulse of Vega Palace for another day of focused tastings and exchange, this time centered around reds with a scattering of rosé. But it was the late afternoon that stayed with me most. Golden light. Warm air. Cellars beginning to quiet as evening approached. And producers leaning across the table to explain not just a wine, but a decision, a vintage, a piece of family history. Falerno del Massico: The Ancient Voice of Campania Long before Barolo, Brunello or Super Tuscans existed, there was Falerno. The legendary wine of ancient Rome. The wine of Caesar and Cleopatra. Produced along the volcanic slopes surrounding Monte Massico near the Tyrrhenian coast, Falerno del Massico remains one of Campania’s most historic appellations. But unlike the elevated freshness of Irpinia or the earthy rusticity of Sannio, the wines here carry something broader and warmer. Sun-warmed fruit. Salty minerality. Mediterranean herbs. Volcanic depth softened by sea breezes. The climate here changes everything. Warm coastal air ripens the fruit generously, while cold winds descending from the Apennines preserve freshness and tension. Combined with volcanic soils, the result is wines that feel simultaneously rich and lifted — structured yet deeply convivial. This was the world of Villa Matilde Avallone. Villa Matilde Avallone: Reviving the Wine of the Romans Villa Matilde is not simply a winery. It is an act of resurrection. Founded by Francesco Paolo Avallone, the estate spent over a decade researching and reviving the ancient terroir and varieties connected to Falerno del Massico. What began as a passion project eventually became one of Campania’s most important modern estates. Today the winery is guided by siblings Salvatore and Maria Avallone, continuing their father’s vision with deep emotional attachment to the land. And that emotion is impossible to miss. At one point during the tasting, Salvatore smiled and said: “We, the people from Campania, are completely crazy. We live our land. We want to communicate our passion through the wine.” And honestly, that sentence captured the entire visit. Emotion. People. Land. Everything here revolves around that connection. The tasting began with Falanghina. The 2024 carried fresh citrus, apple, pear and saline minerality — bright and coastal in feel. Then came the Mata 2015 Falanghina, and suddenly the conversation shifted entirely. Ten years old and completely alive. Ripe peach. Biscuit. Dough. Dried florals. A wine proving once again how beautifully Campanian whites evolve with time. Salvatore compared the grapes almost like iconic Italian women. The 2025 Fiano di Avellino? “Audrey Hepburn.” Elegant. Refined. Silky. The Greco? “Sophia Loren.” More character. More presence. A touch of rustic edge. And honestly, he was right. The Contrada 127 Greco 2022 — produced with amphora, as the estate has done since the 1960s — carried remarkable grip and minerality, like “a hand on your shoulder,” balancing freshness with texture and serious aging potential. Then came Carracci. And this is where Villa Matilde truly revealed its soul. The 2020 Carracci Falerno del Massico single vineyard unfolded through honeyed dried stone fruit, herbs, salinity and lemon curd wrapped around subtle tannic grip. The 2008 broadened even further into caramel, dried grapefruit and toasted nuts while still retaining freshness. These wines felt ancient somehow. Meditative. Completely tied to place. The reds carried the warmth of the coast but never lost their freshness. The 2025 Roccamonfina Piedirosso was pure glou-glou energy — crunchy red fruit, bright acidity and white pepper spice. The 2020 Falerno del Massico Rosso — 80% Aglianico, 20% Piedirosso — felt closest to Salvatore’s heart. He described it as the wine that “communicates the voice of the land.” And it did exactly that. Savory. Volcanic. Layered with spice and lifted fruit. The Taurasi wines brought more structure and smoke, while Cecubo 2018 — blending Primitivo, Aglianico and Piedirosso — moved into darker, richer territory without losing Campania’s signature freshness. What struck me most was how clearly Caserta differentiated itself from the previous days. The wines here carried sunlight inside them. Fattoria Pagano: Drink the Terroir As evening deepened, we continued toward Fattoria Pagano. And suddenly everything became even more intimate. Founded in 2001 by Antonio Pagano, the organic estate stretches across roughly 24 hectares, with vineyards both in Falerno del Massico and Irpinia. The philosophy here is simple: “Drink the terroir.” Nothing polished for international style. Nothing overworked. Just wines tied honestly to volcanic soils, hand harvesting and the rhythm of Campanian hospitality. Antonio and Angelo welcomed us alongside tables already filling with local dishes and buffalo mozzarella made by Antonio’s uncle — firmer in texture than most mozzarella di bufala, originating from nearby Casedici. And once again, the food and wines became inseparable. The evening began with a 120-day Charmat sparkling blend of Greco and Falanghina — biscuit notes, fine bubbles and remarkable freshness. The labels themselves carried stories too, decorated with musical instruments representing the musicians who once gathered here. Even the rosé held personal meaning, dedicated to Antonio’s mother Rosa: 40% Aglianico, 40% Piedirosso and 20% Merlot carrying bright fruit and unmistakable volcanic minerality. The whites leaned generous yet precise. The Falanghina 2025 shimmered with bright minerality, while the late-harvest Falanghina carried rounder floral concentration. The Greco 2025 moved beautifully from tropical softness into rising minerality, while the Fabula Falerno del Massico Bianca 2025 showed serious elegance and structure. Then came the reds. The Piedirosso 2023 carried smoky violets, savory earth and elegant ripeness. The Aglianico bottlings balanced fruit intensity with remarkably soft tannins. But the standout was Gaurasi Falerno del Massico
Campania Stories: Initial Sips — Campi Flegrei & Irpinia
Campania Stories: Volcanic Soul, Mountain Tension & the Wines That Refuse to Be Forgotten Giorno 0 to 1— Campi Flegrei & Irpinia Salvatore Martusciello • Tenuta Cavalier Pepe • Donnachiara Campania does not ease you in gently. It grabs hold of your senses immediately — volcanic smoke in the air, salty Mediterranean breezes, mountain tension in the wines and conversations that stretch long past the final glass. This is not a region of quiet wines. Or quiet people. Campania Stories began the moment the plane touched down in Naples, where Salvatore and Gilda welcomed us not with formality, but with the warmth that instantly turns travel into something personal. Within moments, we were standing at the Solfatara crater in Campi Flegrei, surrounded by black volcanic earth and steam rising from the ground beneath our feet. And suddenly, everything made sense. This is where the wines begin. Not in the cellar. Not in the glass. But in the tension between volcano and sea. Salvatore Martusciello: Wines With Salt in Their Veins At the Salvatore Martusciello winery in Pozzuoli, the family’s role in shaping Campi Flegrei became immediately clear. Salvatore’s father helped establish the DOC in the 1990s, while his uncle Genaro identified Falanghina clones and created what remains one of the region’s defining viticultural references. The vineyards themselves feel wild and alive — ancient Alberata pergolas climbing skyward, wild chamomile lining the rows and some vines still untouched by phylloxera. And you can taste that energy in every glass. The wines moved between electric freshness and volcanic depth: Asprinio bursting with citrus and razor acidity; Falanghina layered with crushed stone, salinity and smoky aged complexity; Piedirosso vibrant with red fruit and coastal freshness. Then came OttoUvo Frizzante Gragnano — fizzy, joyful and unapologetically Neapolitan. “The most beloved iconic wine of the Neapolitan people,” Salvatore called it with a smile. At one point, I asked him what his favorite vintage was. “The next one.” That answer captured the spirit of Campania perfectly. No chasing trends. No imitation. Just wines deeply rooted in place and identity. Dinner among the tanks with Gilda’s homemade timbalo di Nerano, the buffalo mozzarella alongside the estate’s rustic cuisine, grounding the wines even further into place and tradition, the warm sfogliatella transformed the tasting into something even more personal. The wines opened further around the table, revealing Campania not simply as a wine region, but as a way of living. Into the Mountains: Tenuta Cavalier Pepe The following morning, the landscape shifted dramatically as we climbed into Irpinia. More altitude. More silence. More tension. Tenuta Cavalier Pepe unfolded across steep hillsides where cool nights preserve freshness and precision in every grape. Walking the vineyards with Milena Pepe, it became clear that everything here is built around stewardship — hand harvesting, massale selection and allowing the land itself to shape the wines. Milena structured the tasting vertically, revealing how beautifully Irpinia’s wines evolve with time. The Fiano di Avellino wines moved from fresh acacia and citrus into layers of roasted nuts, petrol, honey and salted depth with age. The older vintages carried remarkable energy and proved exactly why Fiano deserves to stand among Italy’s greatest white wines. The Greco di Tufo Riserva wines showed a sharper, more volcanic personality — smoky, savory and intensely mineral. Then came Taurasi. Young vintages carried vivid cherry and chalky tannins, while older bottles unfolded into leather, dried herbs, licorice and savory complexity. The 2011 La Loggia di Cavaliere Taurasi Riserva lingered long after the final sip — dried cherry, violets, leather and fine tannins stretched endlessly across the palate. Hauntingly beautiful. Throughout the tasting, one thing remained constant: Minerality and sapidity slicing through the wines, making you crave food immediately. These are wines built for long lunches, slow conversations and crowded tables. Turn the Page: Donnachiara Irpinia has a way of slowing you down. After the volcanic intensity of Campi Flegrei, arriving at Donnachiara in Montefalcione felt quieter, more introspective somehow. Perched at 400 metres above sea level, surrounded by chunky clay and fractured rock soils, Donnachiara has become one of the defining modern voices of Irpinia through organic farming, native varieties and wines rooted deeply in place. Named after Ilaria Petitto’s great-grandmother, the winery feels deeply personal from the moment you arrive. Ilaria describes her wines simply: “Elegant. Not banal. Wines that need time to show themselves.” That philosophy is everywhere here. Nothing is loud. Nothing is rushed. The wines unfold slowly and confidently, much like Irpinia itself. Alongside winemaker Marco Giulioli, Donnachiara vinifies entirely in stainless steel, allowing the purity of the terroir to remain untouched. The Fiano wines were mesmerizing — moving from fresh pear and white florals in youth into chamomile, honey, petrol, dried herbs and smoky complexity with age. The older Esoterica vintages carried extraordinary tension and depth, proving just how beautifully Fiano can evolve over time. The Greco wines leaned more volcanic and structured, layering smoke, spice, dried herbs and electric acidity into wines that demanded attention rather than easy charm. Then came Taurasi — elegant rather than overpowering, focused on finesse and purity of fruit rather than sheer weight. The older vintages unfolded into leather, balsamic herbs and lifted savory complexity, while the 2006 stood out for its remarkable elegance and freshness. What stayed with me most after this first day of Campania Stories was not simply the quality of the wines. It was the connection between landscape, people and glass. From the volcanic soul of Campi Flegrei to the mountain tension of Irpinia, every wine carried the unmistakable fingerprint of Campania itself. The afternoon shifted gears to the Reggia di Caserta: marble corridors, gardens unfolding like a map of the region, then the Sala Romanelli filling with voices at the opening conference. Over a light dinner curated by the Consorzio VITICA, introductions deepened into plans — collaborations forming as easily as smiles. And this was only Giorno 0-1! Day 2 would take us even deeper into the soul of southern Italy.
VinItaly By Night
Verona nights, Tuscan soul.During the Vinitaly marathon I was treated to two unforgettable evenings: a Big Bottle Social dinner hosted by Tenuta Sette Ponti at the frescoed Palazzo Verità Poeta, followed by an intimate industry gathering — Chianti Lovers & Rosso Morellino — at AMO Bistrot, hosted by IEEM USA. Both events fused impeccable wine, inspired food pairings, and that ineffable Italian energy. Palazzo Verità Poeta’s frescoed salons and ornate ceilings feel like stepping into a living masterpiece: once the urban residence of the Verità Poeta family, the palazzo evolved from Renaissance elegance to Baroque splendor and has been lovingly restored to host concerts, exhibitions and intimate private events. For Tenuta Sette Ponti’s Big Bottle Social Night the rooms shimmered under gilded cornices as giant bottles gleamed on illuminated plinths, while murmurs of conversation and the clink of glasses echoed through frescoed vaults—history and hedonism entwined, making every taste of wine feel like a discovery suspended in time. Hosts Antonio and Alberto Moretti Cuseri — father and son — presided with warm hospitality, embodying Tenuta Sette Ponti’s ethos of handmade luxury. Tenuta Sette Ponti (Valdarno di Sopra DOC) and Orma (Bolgheri) provided the backbone of the tasting, supported by their wider portfolio: Poggio al Lupo (Maremma) with bold, Mediterranean reds and coastal lift; Feudo Macarri (Noto, Sicily) delivering sun-soaked Nero d’Avola and expressive island whites; Animaetna (Etna, Sicily) offering mineral-driven, volcanic reds and crisp high-altitude whites; and the flagship Sette Ponti bottlings that balance power with finesse. Together the estates showcased the family’s terroir-driven range across Tuscany and Sicily. Big Bottle Tasting highlights: A night for Chianti lovers featuring wines from Chianti & Morellino, the evening was equally compelling through thoughtful, perfectly paired bites elevated every glass; bottles flowed, conversations buzzed, and the rooms pulsed with passion for Tuscan terroir. Tuscany stole the show — and Morellino was my happy star of the night. Chianti Classico (Sangiovese-led) ranges from fresh, floral giovane bottlings with cherry and tomato leaf brightness to more structured Classico and Superiore expressions that layer ripe red fruit, dried herbs, leather and savory spice over firmer tannins and brighter acidity; Riserva bottlings show extended oak and bottle aging, adding tobacco, cedar, earth and long, refined finishes ideal for roasted meats and aged cheeses. Rosso Morellino di Scansano, by contrast, leans toward the sun-warmed, coastal side of Sangiovese: exuberant bright red cherry, ripe plum, Mediterranean herbs and a plush, silky palate, often showing softer tannins and a juicy, fresh immediate appeal. Winemaking choices (shorter maceration, judicious oak or amphora) can push Morellino from bright and fruity to more textured, savory versions with spice and smoky nuances — which is exactly what made the Morellino at AMO Bistrot the night’s standout for me: fresh, vividly fruity, effortlessly drinkable yet complex enough to linger with every bite. Every pour told a story of sun-drenched vineyards, coastal breezes and generations of winemaking — if this is what Tuscany tastes like, I’m already planning my next glass.
Conviviality, Rosé, and Sainte-Victoire: Léa Rouyet
This Women’s Month, I had the genuine pleasure of sitting down—virtually—for an unhurried, heartfelt conversation with Léa Rouyet, the talented winemaker at Château Gassier in the sun-drenched heart of Provençe. Our connection actually began over a lively dinner in Paris last year with friends from MFL&Co. and Gassier, where her quiet confidence and obvious passion for both wine and place left a lasting impression. I knew then she would be the perfect voice for this series celebrating women in wine and gastronomy. So I sent my list of questions ahead of time—some deliberately offbeat and introspective—to give her time to think. When we finally spoke, she admitted with a laugh, “There were a few where I told myself I was going to play the joker.” That candid admission, and the thoughtful way she answered anyway, made this one of the most rewarding and human interviews I’ve ever conducted. Château Gassier sits at the foot of the iconic Mont Sainte-Victoire, the limestone massif that has inspired painters, poets, and now winemakers for generations. The wines themselves feel like an extension of that landscape—elegant, joyful, and deeply rooted in place. Léa’s own journey into this world didn’t begin in a vineyard or a cellar, but around crowded Sunday lunch tables in a tiny village in southwest France (population: 500 souls). “What gave me the desire to work in the world of wine is the conviviality around it,” she explained. Those childhood meals—her grandmother presiding, adults sharing glasses of local red and animated stories—quietly planted the seed. She watched, fascinated, wondering why she wasn’t allowed to taste “this little beverage that looks so good.” That curiosity eventually led her to agronomy studies, where she discovered she loved the entire arc of the process: “From the little plant you put in the ground for a very long time… to seeing it grow, produce grapes, and then the complete transformation into the bottle. It’s so global and so interesting.” Advice for Women Entering (or Staying in) the Wine World The wine industry remains heavily masculine, and Léa encountered that reality head-on early in her career. She still remembers the moment an 80-year-old vigneron, handing over his vineyard and cellar, looked at the young woman standing in front of him and said bluntly: “But you’re the one who’s going to take care of the vines? You’re young, you’re a woman… how will you manage?” She smiled recounting it—because six months later she was invited to this gentleman’s Sunday family lunch with his relatives and everything was fine. She had earned his respect the old-fashioned way: through quiet competence and persistence. Her advice to other women—whether just starting out or already navigating the industry—is both empowering and refreshingly down-to-earth: “You have to believe that you are legitimate in doing this job and that as women we bring so many beautiful things to this still very masculine world.” And since becoming a mother, she’s added a second, equally vital lesson: “You have to accept that everything can’t be perfect. We have the right to make mistakes and not be everywhere at the same time.” As the mother of two daughters, I felt that line land right in my chest. The illusion that we can tie every loose end with a perfect bow vanishes the moment real life—with its tantrums, spilled juice, and endless questions—arrives. Léa’s permission to be imperfect felt like a small gift. Balancing Vines, Children, and a Full Life Maintaining equilibrium between a demanding winemaking career and motherhood is, in her words, “a work in progress.” She’s still learning, still adjusting. Her guiding principle is radical presence: “When I arrive home, I’m at home. When I’m at work, I’m at work. I try not to mix all the subjects at once.” Easier said than done, of course, but the intention matters. She also gives generous credit to her partner—“a really important point”—whose support allows both of them space to thrive professionally and personally. We shared a knowing smile over the old saying “it takes a village to raise a child”. With both of us living far from extended family—hers in southwest France, mine scattered across Canada and the U.S.—building that village through partners, friends, trusted caregivers, or neighbors becomes essential. And what works beautifully one month might need to be completely rethought the next. The Quiet Revolution of Motherhood When I asked which experience outside of work had most transformed her worldview, Léa didn’t hesitate: becoming a mother. “It makes you think much more long-term… Our priorities are no longer the same. It gives us a lot of height on the world and our little passage in humanity.” That long view has sharpened her environmental convictions and deepened her sense of responsibility toward the vineyard’s future. She’s no longer thinking only about today’s vintage—she’s thinking about the vintages her child will inherit. A Bottle Shared with Grandfather One of the tenderest moments came when I asked who—living or gone—she would most want to share a bottle with. Her answer was soft and immediate: her grandfather, the wine lover whose presence at those childhood Sunday tables quietly shaped her path. The wine she would have chosen for him? Le Pas du Moine—“because it has elegance and complexity but is also a wine of pleasure, warmth, and conviviality.” The meal? A classic Sunday roast chicken, slow-cooked until the house filled with that unmistakable, comforting aroma. I loved the image so much that I immediately promised her: I will make my family’s “lazy chicken” (the easy one-pot version with hunks of bread underneath soaking up garlic, herbs, wine, and chicken juices) paired with Le Pas du Moine. I’ll send her the recipe and a photo of my girls raising a (juice) glass in toast. Some stories deserve to keep traveling—over tables, across oceans, from one kitchen to another. Who Léa Really Is (Beyond the Cellar) A fact that surprises people who meet her? This reserved, thoughtful winemaker loves to sing. If she had to describe herself in wine-related
Pleasantly Unanticipated Wonder Of Rueda
If you love crisp, aromatic whites that practically beg to be poured at sunset gatherings or lively tapas nights, let me whisk you away to D.O. Rueda in Castilla y León, Spain—the undisputed white-wine heartland I had the joy of exploring on March 27, 2026. As part of a small, lucky group of international Bacchus Competition judges, this journey went far beyond what most people typically think of when they picture Rueda whites. We delved deeply into the region’s impressive diversity, remarkable ageability, and wide appeal to wine lovers of all kinds. From the Consejo Regulador’s welcoming presentation to ancient vines swaying in the breeze, every moment felt like a true vibrant awakening. Come along as I share the highlights, the must-know facts, and why Rueda wines are pure magic for sharing. Where It All Began: Rueda’s Vineyard History Rueda’s story stretches back over a thousand years. Verdejo arrived in the 11th–12th centuries with Mozarabs (Christians from Moorish North Africa) who helped King Alfonso VI repopulate the Duero River valley after the Reconquista. Monks planted vines, and by the Middle Ages, Rueda was famous for its fortified “Dorado” and “Palido” styles served at the Spanish royal court. Phylloxera later devastated the region, shrinking vineyards dramatically, but a revival kicked off in the 1970s when Rioja’s Marqués de Riscal invested in modern techniques. Official D.O. status came in 1980—the first in Castilla y León—and the rest is delicious history. Today, Rueda proudly boasts about 20,700 hectares under vine, 79 wineries, and 1,523 growers, making it Spain’s top white-wine denomination by volume (over 118 million bottles produced in recent years) which accounts for a whopping 44.6% of market share! Why Rueda Is Perfect for Verdejo—the Star Varietal High on the Castilla y León plateau (700–800 meters altitude), Rueda enjoys a continental climate with a touch of Atlantic influence: blazing hot days, refreshingly cool nights, low rainfall, and stony, gravelly, sandy-limestone soils that force vines to dig deep for water and minerals. This diurnal temperature swing locks in bright acidity while the drought-tolerant Verdejo thrives, delivering concentrated aromatics without flab. Result? Wines bursting with citrus, green herbs, tropical hints, almond, and a signature saline minerality. Verdejo makes up a whopping 88% of plantings (with Sauvignon Blanc a strong supporting act). It’s hardy, expressive, and versatile—exactly why it’s Spain’s white-wine superstar. Other allowed varieties include Chardonnay and Viognier, but Verdejo remains the undisputed queen. The Character, Styles, and Those Tell-Tale Back Labels Rueda is overwhelmingly a white-wine region: whites account for over 99% of production with reds and rosés making up less than 1%. The star is Verdejo, but the full picture includes a small yet vibrant red presence using authorized varieties such as Tempranillo (the most common), Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. Rueda whites are zesty, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant—think freshness with structure, never heavy. Classic styles include: Since the 2019–2020 rule refresh, all dry whites fall under the single “Rueda” designation (minimum 50% Verdejo and/or Sauvignon Blanc). Wines labeled Rueda Verdejo require a minimum of 85% Verdejo (most are 100% and proudly say so on the back label). Premium Gran Vino de Rueda highlights old-vine (30+ years) and low-yield bottlings for extra depth and complexity. The historic fortified styles, beloved for centuries, still thrive today for those who crave something different from the fresh styles. The delicate Pálido is a pale, dry and subtly oxidative wine with elegant notes of almond, chamomile and saline minerality, while the iconic Dorado — a golden-amber, richly oxidative treasure — offers profound layers of toasted hazelnut, caramel, dried apricot, honey and warm spices, traditionally aged in a solera system. Reds and rosés, though rare, follow the same D.O. framework: reds are typically 100% red varieties, while rosés need a minimum 50% red grapes. They tend to be fresh, vibrant, and fruit-forward—think bright cherry and herbal notes in young Tempranillo or Garnacha expressions, with some barrel-aged examples showing more structure and aging potential. A few standouts have even earned Gran Vino de Rueda status. You’ll spot the official D.O. Rueda seal and back label (contraetiqueta) on every bottle—it’s your guarantee of authenticity, quality, origin, vintage, and grape composition. No guesswork; just pure Rueda character in every sip, whether it’s a crisp white or a rare red. Why Rueda Wines Are Made for Sharing These wines are social superstars: bright, approachable, and ridiculously food-friendly. Pair them with seafood, fresh salads, creamy cheeses, or classic Spanish tapas, and watch conversations flow. Their great value, vibrant fruit, and lively acidity make them ideal for picnics, dinner parties, or simply passing the bottle among friends. In a world of complicated wines, Rueda delivers pure joy—versatile enough for casual sipping yet sophisticated enough to impress. No wonder they’re flying off shelves worldwide! My Bacchus Jury Day in Rueda: A Perfect Snapshot Our small group of judges kicked off the morning with arrival at the Consejo Regulador D.O. Rueda. A warm welcome, an insightful presentation on the region, and a focused tasting of a stellar selection of Rueda wines set the tone—fresh, informative, and utterly inspiring. We were then left to our own devices to taste 40 wines of various styles from fresh and lively to aged, oxidative, sweet and VORR. There were a few sprinklings of Sauvignon Blanc and Palomino Fino in the mix but, as the region dictates, Verdejo is the clear queen of the region. A handful stood out and absolutely stole the show: Bodegas Pandora Verdejo Ecológico 2025 burst with vibrant green-apple crunch and zesty lime; Diez Siglos de Verdejo 2025 delivered bright citrus fireworks laced with almond and saline minerality; Bodegas de Alberto Sobre Lías 2024 wrapped us in creamy toasted-nut richness with lingering peach; Bodegas Naia Verdejo 2022 offered elegant fennel and white-flower finesse; Rodríguez y Sanzo Palo Norte brought smoky herbal depth with electric tension; the historic Feliz Lorenzo Cachazo de Alberto Dorado showed golden oxidative nuttiness; its Dorado Dulce version was pure honeyed apricot bliss; and the rare Dorado VORR delivered profound, concentrated
Elegant Women’s Day Sips
Fellow wine lovers, let’s raise our glasses to the extraordinary women who shape the world of wine with their passion, innovation, and grace. In honor of Women’s Day, I’ve curated a selection of exceptional bottles, each spotlighting a remarkable woman’s role in its creation. From founders to winemakers and historical pioneers, these wines embody their spirit—elegant, resilient, and full of life. Join me on this flavorful journey through France’s finest, where every sip tells a story of empowerment and artistry. Souleil Vin de Bonté Le Rosé 2024 Marianne Fabre-Lanvin: The Visionary Founder of Souleil Marianne Fabre-Lanvin, a French Southerner with deep family roots in vineyards, turned her lifelong passion for wine and the sea into a reality by co-founding Souleil Vin de Bonté. As a wine publicist and marketer splitting time between Paris and New York, she launched this brand as a passion project, blending organic grapes from independent growers while championing sustainability and ocean conservation. Her approachable, laid-back ethos makes every bottle feel like an invitation to share joy with friends. The Winery: Souleil Vin de Bonté Founder Marianne captures the sun-drenched essence of Southern France. This eco-conscious label sources organic grapes from seaside vineyards, emphasizing low-intervention practices and giving back to the ocean. It’s a brand that embodies endless summer vibes, producing approachable reds, whites, and rosés with a nostalgic, unapologetically French flair. The Wine: Sunset rays of vibrancy Crafted through organic, low-intervention winemaking, this rosé blends 34 % Grenache, 33% Syrah, 33% Cinsault, fermented in a Provençal style for bright lift and freshness. Hailing from Mediterranean-sighted parcels in Vin de France, it’s a delicate, dry rosé bursting with strawberries, raspberries, orange rind, and mineral notes—think tart red berries and juicy grapefruit on a vibrant, herbaceous palate. Pair it creatively with a sunset picnic of grilled octopus tacos or vegan berry sorbet for a refreshing, ocean-inspired twist. Madame de Beaucaillou, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, 2020 The Matriarch: Honoring Elegance and Warmth This wine pays tribute to the producer’s mother, a symbol of grace and hospitality whose elegance, warmth, and artful table-setting inspired its name. As the heart of the Borie family, she represents the nurturing spirit that infuses the estates legacy, reminding us how women create welcoming spaces that turn houses into homes. The Winery: Madame de Beaucaillou has been family-owned for generations under the Borie family. Spanning 75 hectares with vines averaging over 35 years old, it focuses on meticulous craftsmanship, blending tradition with modern precision to produce iconic Bordeaux wines known for their structure and longevity. The Wine: Poised and Powerful Hand-harvested and vinified with care, this Merlot-dominant blend (66% Merlot Noir, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot) ages 12 months in Bordeaux barrels (20% new). From the Haut-Médoc region, it’s a savory, classic red with deep ruby hues, offering blackcurrant, iris petals, and orange blossom aromas. On the palate, juicy black fruits and polished tannins shine—pair it with a creative twist like duck confit empanadas or dark chocolate-dusted venison for an indulgent, welcoming feast. Gassier Blanc, Côtes de Provence, 2025 Léa Rouyet: The Artisan Oenologist Léa Rouyet, a talented winemaker from the Basque Country, joined Château Gassier in 2015 and has since elevated its wines with her passion for terroir-driven expressions. Balancing tradition and innovation, she crafts cuvées that highlight Provence’s unique character, proving rosé and whites deserve serious acclaim while inspiring a new generation of female vintners. The Winery: Château Gassier Nestled at the foot of Montagne Sainte-Victoire, Château Gassier is a six-generation artisanal estate committed to organic farming across 40 hectares. Under Georges Gassier and Léa Rouyet, it pioneers wood-aged Provence wines and sustainable practices, producing expressive rosés and whites that capture the region’s limestone-clay terroir in Côtes de Provence and Sainte-Victoire appellations. The Wine: Crisp Modernity Meets Mediterranean Magic This new cuvée is 100% Vermentino with cool stainless fermentation, offers a fresh, modern take on Provence white. Pale gold with a silvery-green shimmer, this vibrant white opens with fresh white peach, bright citrus, and delicate white flowers. On the palate, it’s crisp and refreshing, delivering zesty lemon and grapefruit notes layered with subtle minerality and a whisper of Mediterranean garrigue. Round yet lively, with a clean, saline finish that lingers invitingly. Savor its sunshine in a glass alongside creative pairings like citrus-glazed scallops over herb-infused quinoa or a summer salad with goat cheese and honeycomb. Tempo d’Angelus, Bordeaux 2023 Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal: The Eighth-Generation Leader As the first woman in eight generations to lead Château Angelus, Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal has steered the estate toward organic viticulture since 2012. Her visionary guidance created Tempo d’Angelus, demystifying grands crus while preserving family legacy—a testament to her determination, passion, and role as guardian of centuries-old traditions. The Winery: Tempo d’Angelus Born from the same exceptional terroirs and crafted with the Angelus team’s renowned savoir-faire, Tempo d’Angelus delivers the signature depth and complexity of its illustrious siblings—Château Angelus and Carillon d’Angelus—but in a more immediate, hedonistic style. No need to wait 15–20 years; this precise, well-structured wine is ready to be enjoyed at its peak much sooner. Sourced from magnificent clay-limestone slopes in Saint-Magne-de-Castillon, Castillon-La-Bataille, and Sainte-Colombe (acquired in 2017 specifically for this project), it is vinified in a dedicated, state-of-the-art cellar within Chai Carillon. Its elegant label features the iconic swinging Angelus bell, perfectly capturing the new rhythm and energy this wine brings to the family’s prestigious range. The Wine: Refined Grace in Every Sip Made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, with vines from Castillon-la-Bataille parcels, this Bordeaux red undergoes precise vinification for streamlined elegance. From Bordeaux appellation, it’s poised and complex with red berries, plum, mocha, and subtle oak—richly extracted yet approachable young. A true expression of Bordeaux excellence—refined, accessible, and deeply satisfying. Elevate it with a creative pairing like lamb tagine with apricots or aged cheddar-stuffed mushrooms for a graceful, celebratory meal. Billecart-Salmon Le Rosé, Champagne Elisabeth Salmon: The Pioneering Co-Founder In 1818, Elisabeth Salmon co-founded Billecart-Salmon with her husband Nicolas-François, bringing her
Passports To Spring Wine Club
Spring has arrived, and with it comes that irresistible urge to shake off the cozy winter layers, open the windows, and let fresh air—and fresh wines—flood in. I’ve curated four standout bottles that feel like liquid sunshine: each one crisp, lively, and perfectly tuned to the season’s renewal. From a steely German white that wakes up your palate like morning dew on budding flowers, to an Alpine pink sparkler for breezy picnics, a fizzy Italian red to liven up grill sessions, and a soulful Spanish red for those golden-hour evenings under emerging leaves—these are my personal passports to spring awakening. Let’s dive in, one vibrant sip at a time. Spring has arrived, and with it comes that irresistible urge to shake off the cozy winter layers, open the windows, and let fresh air—and fresh wines—flood in. I’ve curated four standout bottles that feel like liquid sunshine: each one crisp, lively, and perfectly tuned to the season’s renewal. From a steely German white that wakes up your palate like morning dew on budding flowers, to an Alpine pink sparkler for breezy picnics, a fizzy Italian red to liven up grill sessions, and a soulful Spanish red for those golden-hour evenings under emerging leaves—these are my personal passports to spring awakening. Let’s dive in, one vibrant sip at a time. Balthasar Ress Rheingau Riesling Dry QbA: The Crisp Dawn Awakener Imagine steep slate slopes rising dramatically along the Rhine, ancient soils channeling pure minerality into every grape—that’s the enchanting world of Balthasar Ress, a storied family estate in the heart of Germany’s prestigious Rheingau. Here, Riesling reigns supreme (78% of plantings), protected by the Taunus Mountains and gently warmed by the river for slow, elegant ripening in this ultimate cool-climate haven. On a personal note I had the pleasure of visiting the estate this past January and let me tell you, it was swoon worthy! Read the full article. Hand-harvested from selected estate vineyards, the grapes undergo gentle whole-cluster pressing and cool stainless-steel fermentation—no oak—to preserve razor-sharp freshness and let the signature slate terroir shine unadorned in this bone-dry trocken QbA style. A delightful secret: Historic sites like Nussbrunnen lend old-vine depth and that classic “wet stone” or subtle petrol note even in young bottles, with many Ress Rieslings evolving gracefully for decades into profound layers. In the glass, pale straw with subtle green glints reveals an explosive bouquet: ripe pear, banana, peach, crunchy green apple, lime zest, gooseberry, delicate herbal spice, and layered wet stone minerality. The palate is invigorating and laser-focused—crisp tree fruits, a herbaceous basil lift, saline snap, vibrant acidity driving through, and a pristinely clean, mouthwatering finish that begs for another sip. It pairs beautifully with spring’s stars: asparagus risotto (its acidity cuts the creamy earthiness like sunlight through clouds), honey-drizzled goat cheese crostini, or grilled ramps and young greens—the wine amplifies every vegetal note like a fresh garden echo. Think of it as the unflappable calm in “The Great British Bake Off” tent during a tense technical challenge—pure, crisp composure amid the chaos, much like Paul Hollywood’s rare approving nod. Best savored at a sunny garden brunch: a long outdoor table strewn with tulips and daffodils, buttery scones or light veggie quiche, friends gathered as birds chirp and bees hum. Sip slowly in the morning light; the minerality mirrors rain-kissed earth, turning every conversation into pure seasonal renewal. Ferrari Rosé: Effortless Alpine Glamour in Pink Bubbles Spring’s soundtrack deserves bubbles, and Ferrari Rosé delivers with effortless elegance from Trento DOC in Italy’s breathtaking Dolomite Alps. Founded in 1902 by Giulio Ferrari (after his French training), this pioneering metodo classico house is now guided by the third generation Lunelli family, who have elevated Trentodoc sparkling wines to world-class status. On a personal note, I had the pleasure of meeting the third generation Lunelli family last year at Wine Paris and will be visiting their estate this April! High-altitude vineyards (300–700 meters+) bask in sunny days and crisp nights on glacial soils, yielding Champagne-like finesse infused with vibrant Italian Alpine soul. The metodo classico process shines: a harmonious blend of Pinot Nero (around 60% for structure and that lovely salmon hue via saignée maceration) and Chardonnay (40% for finesse), gentle pressing, bottle secondary fermentation, and extended lees aging (20–24+ months) for creamy texture and ultra-fine perlage. A fun nod to history: Ferrari helped establish Trento DOC in 1993 as Italy’s dedicated metodo classico zone—often hailed as “Italy’s Champagne,” with recent cuvées earning consistent 90+ praise for harmony and refinement. The wine glows delicate coppery salmon-pink with persistent fine bubbles; the nose is refined and inviting—wild strawberries, red currants, hawthorn blossoms, rose petals, and subtle yeasty brioche. On the dry palate: watermelon rind crispness, a touch of almond sweetness, lively acidity, elegant fruit persistence, and a clean, refreshing finish that feels sophisticated yet utterly approachable. It dances perfectly with prosciutto-wrapped melon skewers (sweet-salty-fruity interplay amplified by bubbles), mint-flecked spring pea risotto, or salmon sushi rolls—the effervescence lifts delicate flavors without overpowering. Channel “Emily in Paris” rooftop glamour: this chic pink fizz matches Emily’s aspirational style, ideal for fashion-week montages or glamorous soirées bursting with springtime joy. Unleash it on a breezy park or lakeside picnic—wicker basket packed with charcuterie, fresh baguette, seasonal strawberries, and soft blankets under blooming cherry trees or dogwoods. Let the bubbles fizz as sunlight filters through leaves and laughter flows; ordinary afternoons transform into spontaneous, feel-good celebrations of longer days. Pezzuoli Pietrascura Dry Lambrusco Grasparossa: The Fizzy Red Rebel Time to flip the script on Lambrusco stereotypes—this dry, savory beauty from Azienda Agricola Pezzuoli (a fourth-generation family treasure since 1932 in Emilia-Romagna’s Castelvetro hills) is complex, food-driven, and full of character. In the smallest, most structured subzone—Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC—hilly terrain with warm days and cool nights builds intense color, fruit depth, and balanced tannins. 100% estate-grown Grasparossa grapes get cold maceration for gentle extraction, then Charmat tank fermentation for lively, frothy effervescence; short maceration keeps it vibrant, dry, and refreshingly low-intervention. The revelation:
Andes to Plate: Trivento’s Elegant Malbec Exploration
An unforgettable evening unfolded at Vinile Chop House, where Trivento hosted an intimate Malbec dinner in collaboration with the restaurant’s talented team. This special gathering celebrated the versatility and elegance of Argentine Malbec, guided by none other than Trivento’s Chief Winemaker, Germán Di Césare, who traveled from Mendoza to share the stories, terroir, and passion behind each pour. Founded in 1996 in the foothills of the Andes, Trivento crafts wines with a deep respect for the land, blending meticulous winemaking with authentic expressions of Malbec—from vibrant modern styles to timeless single-vineyard gems. The evening’s menu was a thoughtful exploration of the grape, pairing four standout Trivento wines with a curated four-course meal that highlighted bold flavors, refined textures, and perfect harmony. Germán’s presence made the night truly personal. He spoke eloquently about the vineyard’s soul: “Every section within a plot has a sense of place,” he emphasized, highlighting how subtle variations in soil and microclimate create distinct character even within a small area. He also shared his reverence for nature’s gifts: “The mountains give us the most important elements—water and soil. We work hard with these elements.” The pinnacle of his passion shone through when discussing the iconic Eolo, sourced from ungrafted vines planted in 1912 in Luján de Cuyo’s historic Vistalba area. At around 930 meters elevation, the 4-hectare vineyard features alluvial soils—rock, sand, clay, and loam—that lend complexity and elegance. Germán described the wine as “clear, precise, powerful, and beautiful,” an expression of four different moods from four distinct soil types, or micro-appellations. First produced in 2000, Eolo holds a special place in his heart as the ultimate embodiment of place and history. Adding to the evening’s warmth, Germán expressed deep gratitude for recent recognition: “Being named Winemaker of the Year by the renowned Tim Atkin, MW means a lot to me. I am very grateful.” His humility and expertise brought every sip to life. The night began with the innovative Trivento White Malbec 2025, a rare and intriguing white expression of the grape. Crisp and crystalline, it burst with notes of green apple, lychee, and tropical pineapple, backed by bright acidity and a refreshing, medium-bodied finish. It was the ideal opener—light, surprising, and palate-cleansing. Paired beautifully with the First Course: Crab Malfadine featuring lump crab, fennel, and mascarpone. The wine’s lively fruit and subtle floral hints cut through the creamy richness of the mascarpone while complementing the sweet crab and anise-like fennel for a fresh, elegant start. Next came the Trivento Reserve Malbec 2024, a classic crowd-pleaser with deep ruby hues and violet tinges. On the nose, ripe blackberries, juicy plums, and violets intertwined with gentle vanilla and sweet spice from French oak aging. On the palate, it was generous yet balanced—soft tannins, lively acidity, and a persistent, harmonious finish. This poured alongside the Second Course: Braised Lamb Shoulder with Potato Purée. The wine’s plush dark fruit and subtle oak notes embraced the tender, savory lamb, while its freshness lifted the richness of the braise and creamy potato, creating a comforting yet sophisticated pairing. The highlight for many was the Third Course, featuring two powerhouse reds: the Trivento Reserve Maximum Red Blend 2023 (a bold Malbec-dominant blend) and the flagship Trivento Eolo 2021, that century-old-vine masterpiece. The Eolo delivered intense aromas of cherry, raspberry, and floral notes, evolving into a powerful yet refined palate with silky tannins, ripe fruit concentration, and a long, elegant finish—classic Luján de Cuyo character with modern freshness. Paired with Filet Mignon sauced in Black Garlic Béarnaise. The steak’s juicy tenderness met its match in the Eolo’s structured fruit and spice, while the black garlic’s umami depth amplified the wine’s complexity. Earthy, luxurious, and utterly memorable. To close, the Trivento Golden Reserve 2022—a premium single-vineyard expression from old vines—brought elegance and power. Deep purple-red with violet tones, it offered a bouquet of berry fruits, plum jam, coffee, tobacco, and subtle floral hints. On the palate, it was ripe, juicy, and balanced, with silky tannins, vibrant intensity, and a long, dry finish. The Fourth Course: Decadent Chocolate Cake with Berry Compote and Black Truffle. The wine’s dark fruit and subtle spice harmonized with the rich chocolate, while the berry compote echoed its berry notes, and the black truffle added an intriguing savory layer for a luxurious, lingering finale. Under Germán Di Césare’s warm guidance—sharing insights into terroir, history, and heartfelt gratitude—the evening felt illuminating and intimate. Stories of Andean mountains, ancient vines, and meticulous craftsmanship brought every sip to life. For wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike, it was a powerful reminder of why Argentine Malbec continues to captivate: balance, authenticity, and endless pairing potential. If you’re passionate about Malbec or simply love exceptional wine dinners, keep an eye out for future Trivento events—they’re not to be missed. Cheers to more nights like this!
A Conversation with Isabelle Legeron MW: The Heart and Soul of RAW WINE
I had the pleasure of interviewing Isabelle Legeron MW, founder of RAW WINE, amid the electric atmosphere of the RAW WINE fair in Paris. As someone who has long admired her work, I’m continually struck by how much she embodies—not just as the first French woman to become a Master of Wine, but as an environmental advocate, mother, and remarkably grounded person who has quietly reshaped the way so many of us think about wine. Her story begins on a family farm in the Cognac region of France, where agriculture was woven into her earliest memories. There, she witnessed firsthand the heavy toll industrial farming and pesticides exacted on health and the land. Those experiences instilled in her a lifelong conviction: the best way forward is to work *with* nature, never against it. That conviction found new depth during her rigorous Master of Wine studies, when she discovered what she calls an “alternative wine world.” Small producers crafting low-intervention wines—free of excessive additives, high sulfites, or chemical shortcuts—captivated her completely. These wines tasted alive, authentic, and resonant in ways conventional ones never had, perfectly mirroring the values she had carried since childhood. “It turned my life on its head,” she told me. The wines seized her both on the palate and philosophically, sparking a dedication that would define her path. At the time, natural wine lacked real visibility or infrastructure in the UK, where she was based. In 2012 she responded by founding RAW WINE: a platform to celebrate these growers, build community, demand greater transparency, and forge direct connections between makers and drinkers through fairs, education, and honest conversation. Those original guiding principles remain as vital today as they were then. Isabelle deliberately designed RAW WINE as an inclusive space where growers could speak with both trade professionals and everyday consumers. “Consumers are crucial—they buy the wine,” she emphasized. Unlike many closed-door industry tastings, RAW WINE opens its doors wide, inviting real dialogue across every table. Transparency has always been another cornerstone. Twenty years ago, most people had little idea what happened inside the bottle—how much sulfites dioxide was added, or what other interventions took place. RAW WINE set out to change that by encouraging growers to share these details openly and without judgment, so people could choose with knowledge rather than guesswork. Above all, though, the mission is about serving nature. Isabelle champions organic and minimal-intervention wines to reduce viticulture’s environmental burden. She personally notices a tangible difference: these “living wines” feel more vibrant and harmonious in the body than their conventional counterparts. She often uses the term “living wine” for low-intervention styles – typically ≤30 ppm sulfites, unfiltered, teeming with visible microbial life under a microscope—though she readily acknowledges that “natural wine” has become the more familiar label. That sense of life and vitality runs deep in her own memories, too. One stands out vividly: the rich, heady smell of fermenting grape juice from childhood days spent helping her grandfather in the family winery. That sweet-tangy aroma of active fermentation still transports her instantly back to the harvest bustle on the farm. It’s the very same lively, yeasty energy she finds—and loves—in the young pét-nats she enjoys today: fresh, fizzy wines bottled while fermentation is still underway, carrying echoes of the unpolished, elemental magic she first encountered as a girl. For Isabelle, it’s a straight line from a childhood scent to her lifelong devotion to living, low-intervention wines. The conversation turned even more personal when I asked who she would most want to share a bottle with, and why. Her answer came without hesitation and carried quiet weight: her late father, who died of lung cancer when she was just 25. “He never had the chance to taste the kind of beautiful wine I work with now,” she said, “the kind he could never have afforded back then.” In that imagined evening she would pour him something exceptional and walk him through her journey—from the Cognac farm where he raised her amid soil and seasons, to becoming France’s first female Master of Wine and founding RAW WINE. It would be her way of honoring the agricultural roots he gave her and showing him how deeply his legacy still runs through everything she does. Her words hit especially close to home for me. I lost my own father to cancer when I was 23, so hearing her speak about that unfinished conversation—that wish to share a bottle and a story—felt achingly familiar. It reminded me how often the most powerful moments in wine have little to do with vintage or score, and everything to do with memory, gratitude, and the people we wish could still raise a glass with us. Isabelle has also navigated the natural wine world as a woman, facing more scrutiny and criticism than some of her male counterparts. Her advice to others entering the industry is characteristically direct and grounded: – Prepare for hardship—recognize the gender-based challenges, but keep going. – Trust your instincts—tune out the external noise and follow your own intuition rather than trying to please everyone. – Work diligently—there are no shortcuts; real success comes from consistent effort. Even with a demanding travel schedule, she balances family life and the occasional escape into foraging—though she admits it’s difficult to find time during peak seasons like autumn. Looking ahead, she is eager to bring RAW WINE to high-potential emerging markets. These are regions with a new generation of wine drinkers who are excited to embrace the fun and joy of wine, rather than being “educated” into the often exclusive, traditional, and occasion-driven world of classic wines. Promising markets could include Brazil and several rapidly developing Asian countries. While high costs and logistical challenges remain significant hurdles, she remains optimistic and hopeful about the possibilities. Isabelle Legeron’s path reflects an unwavering commitment to authenticity, resilience, and respect for the natural world. Through RAW WINE she is not only showcasing a different kind of wine; she is empowering consumers, uplifting small growers, and
Wine of Austria Stole the Spotlight at Wine Paris
Wine Paris, organized by Vinexposium—the world’s leading wine and spirits event organizer—remains the premier global trade fair for the industry. Held annually at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, it brings together thousands of exhibitors (over 6,500 in 2026!), producers, buyers, and professionals from dozens of countries for three intense days of tastings, masterclasses, B2B meetings, and high-stakes networking. It’s far more than a show—it’s the ultimate barometer of global wine trends, influence, and innovation, drawing massive crowds and transforming Paris into the epicenter of the wine world. This was my first year working behind the Wine of Austria stand, and let me tell you—it’s a completely different experience from just attending. Instead of wandering the aisles as a visitor, I was right there in the heart of it: interviewing the producers, tasting their wines straight from the source, hearing their unfiltered stories up close, and watching them light up as they shared their journeys with new clients, curious enthusiasts, sommeliers, and buyers from around the world. There’s something profoundly unforgettable about being the bridge—pouring a glass, starting a conversation, and seeing eyes widen as someone truly connects with the wine and the person behind it. The vulnerability, the pride, the quiet triumphs in those exchanges—it all felt raw and real. Being part of that energy, day after day, left me buzzing long after the lights went down. The energy at the Wine of Austria stand was palpable: the room crackled with unfiltered intensity—sharp conversations, fearless pours, and producers dropping raw truths about what makes these wines so genuinely provocative. Their bottles cut straight through the clutter—bold, unapologetic, demanding attention—while every glass sparked real, electric connections, channeling raw passion directly from vineyard terroir to the table, no compromises allowed. The labels whisper personal stories, carrying the artistic touch of generations past and turning each bottle into a true family heirloom. Beneath them lie the souls of winemakers and their ancestors, with each vine rooted in history stretching back over 600 years. These producers are guardians of legacy. One remembers childhood footsteps between the rows; another draws strength from her mother stepping into her own, finding peace in nature’s rhythm and transforming small-family silence into vibrant, soul-stirring wines. Multi-generational hands keep traditions alive while infusing fresh passion into every harvest. From the fiery reds of Burgenland to the mineral-crisp whites of Wachau, it’s all about passing the torch: bottling emotion, memory, heritage, and that unbreakable bond between family and soil. Hearing these producers share their worlds in their own words was one of the most powerful parts of the fair. Here are some of the standout moments: Each of these wineries has a story to share, each unique and personal: Why chase this endless story? To preserve what came before, to hand it forward, and to let every sip echo centuries of love for the land. Thank you to everyone who showed up with curiosity, shared wines and zero pretense—you elevated the entire experience. To these producers who bring the real edge, and to every palate that tasted it: this is only the beginning. Here’s to fearless pours, boundary-pushing bottles, and collaborations that refuse to play it safe. What an electric way to kick off the year in wine! Stay tuned for more on the wines shared and discovered.