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Make this July extraordinary with a visit to Quinta da Vacaria! 🔸 Historic charm: with its first recorded mention dating back to 1616, Quinta da Vacaria is steeped in rich history and tradition. Walking through this estate is like taking a step back in time. 🔸 Breathtaking landscapes: marvel at the stunning vistas of the Douro Valley and the picturesque Casa da Vinha. 🔸 Guided vineyard tours: enjoy a guided walking tour through the vineyards. Learn about the winemaking process, the estate’s history, and the unique characteristics that make Douro wines so special. 🔸 Wine tasting experiences: from robust reds to elegant whites, savor the flavors that have made Quinta da Vacaria a renowned name in the wine world.

Rioja, a prestigious wine region in Spain, is celebrated for its exceptional quality and rich winemaking tradition. Nestled in the north of the country, Rioja's vineyards benefit from a unique combination of Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Continental climates, along with diverse soils that create ideal conditions for viticulture. The region is renowned for its Tempranillo grapes, which form the backbone of Rioja wines, often blended with Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano to create complex and robust flavors. Rioja's winemaking history dates back to Roman times, and it has evolved through centuries, incorporating both traditional methods and modern innovations. The wines, particularly the aged reservas and gran reservas, are known for their depth, elegance, and distinctive character, often showcasing notes of red fruit, oak, and spice. As one of Spain's first regions to receive the Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) status, Rioja stands as a symbol of excellence in Spanish winemaking, attracting connoisseurs and enthusiasts from around the world. www.Somm.Site #wine #learning #innovation #courses #hospitality #hotels #restaurants

Natural wines from Bordeaux? Yes, they do exist! This month, Tatler Asia featured Chateau Shuette, exploring the journey of crafting natural wines in Bordeaux, a region renowned for its traditions and classic wines. The article delves into the story behind the brand and what makes these wines special. Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eJUs_CS4

Spain has long been regarded as a haven for viniculture enthusiasts. Yet among its many wine regions, Rioja stands apart. This northeastern locale leads visitors through a unique sensory journey across vine-covered landscapes and down into historic cellars sure to impress even the most seasoned oenophile. Rioja boasts panoramic scenery adorned with picturesque vineyards stretching across rolling green hills. This history and culture are celebrated in dozens of vibrant wine festivals such as the Batalla del Clarete, where participants engage in playful wine battles. Wineries like Marqués de Riscal, the oldest winery in Rioja, allow you to watch the winemaking process firsthand, offering a peek behind the curtain as you sample the best of their varieties. Vineyards aside, Rioja is also a treasure trove of historic landmarks and natural wonders. Medieval estates abound throughout the region, including the Castle of Cornago, which is believed to date back to the 11th century. Visit Logroño, the capital of Rioja, and spend time walking among the many shops, restaurants, monuments, and museums of Calle del Laurel. Hiking trails crisscross the rolling landscape, rewarding adventurous souls with the stunning vistas of the Najerilla Valley and Erbo River. Rioja's culinary scene, like its wines, is a gastronomic delight. Pair your glass with hearty stews like Rioja-style potatoes and chorizo. Sample local specialties like Piquillos de Lodosa, sweet red peppers stuffed with seafood or meat, which pair perfectly with white varieties. Rioja wines are classified into several categories, each offering a distinct experience. Crianza wines are aged for a minimum of two years, with at least one year in oak barrels. Reserva wines undergo longer aging, enhancing their structure and flavor. Gran Reserva, the pinnacle, is aged for extended periods, resulting in wines of exceptional maturity and elegance. 📷: @lariojaturismo #RiojaWines #SpanishWineHeritage #VineyardCulture #RiojaCulinaryDelights #WineTraditions

We live in a time when many of the foundation stones, and pillars of our culture and beliefs seem to have been torn away. Trust in governments, the police, the press, and the medical profession seems to be a distant memory. For lovers of Bordeaux and its wines it is comforting that the landmark 1855 classification of the wines of the Médoc and Sauternes is still in place. And, on the whole, it is as valid today as it has ever been. Of course in the (nearly) 170 years since the classification, there have been many changes to the listed châteaux, but only one major and one minor change to the list. The Phylloxera louse invaded the vineyards, properties have changed hands, have expanded or contracted (any increase in the land under vine must always be within the appellation), and yields today are generally higher. At times some of the châteaux went off form, and even fell into disrepair, but the investment in the last couple of decade has been phenomenal. There are many books written about Bordeaux and its wines, all of which discuss, to a greater or lesser extent, the properties listed in the famous 1855 Classification. However, whilst each work takes an individual approach, to date there has not been a book that looks at the châteaux that considers how they cater for the wine tourist. This is remedied in this great new publication: 'Bordeaux 1855: A Guide to the Grands Crus Classés', published by Flammarion. Price: £22 https://lnkd.in/eipykjX4

BEYOND BORDEAUX, the fourth episode of Inside La Place de Bordeaux by ARENI Global, discusses a pivotal moment in the history of La Place: the exact moment when the fine wine market became a truly international fine wine market. Twenty years ago, wines from countries like Chile, Argentina and Australia accounted for less than one half of one percent of the global fine wine trade altogether — despite the presence of Almaviva and Opus One on La Place. But all that changed in 2010, towards the end of the global financial crisis. The rise of less expensive airfares due to cheap oil prices, and more affordable accommodation options like Airbnb led to the rise of gastrotourism with its focus on visiting the best restaurants in the world. At the same time, both executives and tourists alike started visiting premium wineries directly – and they wanted to experience these wines again once they got back home. By 2016, approximately 30 million bottles of foreign wines were being consumed in France, a figure that wouldn’t have seemed possible just ten years earlier, when “fine wine” in France was limited to Bordeaux and Burgundy and occasionally Champagne. A greater need for global distribution became clear – and La Place de Bordeaux was in the perfect position to respond to this need. #BeyondBordeaux #Bordeaux #LaPlace #ARENI Enjoy the fourth episode of this acclaimed series featuring Pauline Vicard, co-founder and executive director of ARENI Global, and editorial director Felicity Carter by listening here: https://lnkd.in/eRupckG8

🍷🔥 Exciting updates from the world of fine wine! Bordeaux and Burgundy take the lead in weekly trading, while Opus One and Clos des Papes steal the show as top performers. 🌟 Liv-ex reveals new releases for Château d'Yquem 2021 and Château Latour 2017, stirring up the market. Bordeaux remains strong with 33.2% of trade value, with Burgundy not far behind at 28.0%. 📈 The U.S. makes its mark with increased trade share, and Opus One 2018 shines as the most in-demand wine. 🇺🇸🍇 Burgundy reigns over the most traded wines by value, although Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2019 sees a dip in trade despite high praise. 🏆 Look for Château Cheval Blanc 2000 and Bordeaux gems like Château Duhart-Milon 2015 and Château Pontet-Canet 2017 to make waves in trading volume. 🌊 Clos des Papes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge 2022, also stands out in trade volume. 🔄 https://lnkd.in/eWivqvwG

🚨 Bing! Amazing Wine Alert 🚨 Spirits Sourcery is not just about discovering the world’s rarest bottles; we are also enthusiastic about finding hidden gems that punch well above their price tag! 🌟 With 42,000 bottles rated on Vivino, you will find everything from the undrinkable to legends like the 1945 Romanée-Conti. (They only made six hundred bottles but yes, we can supply those if you are interested! 😉) But the real thrill? Uncovering wines that over-deliver in every way—like Castillejos from Calvente Winery. 🍷 This remarkable wine has not only featured in the top 1% on Vivino of all wines produced globally but has also graced tables at numerous 3-star Michelin restaurants in Spain. Calvente is a family-owned winery nestled in the stunning mountains of Granada, southern Spain. The passion they pour into their craft shines through in every sip. Although widely distributed across Europe, Calvente offers a unique opportunity for expansion, including in travel retail where there is no representation currently. They may not be a household name yet outside of Spain, but their authenticity and dedication are unmatched. 🌍✨ With the travel retail community about to descend en masse to Cannes for TFWA in the next few weeks, now is the perfect time to share this opportunity. If you are a progressive operation and searching for a partner brand that values quality, collaboration, and storytelling, then please get in touch. #WineDiscovery #CalventeWinery #SpiritsSourcery #HiddenGems #WineLovers #QualityOverQuantity #WineBusiness

Exploring Bordeaux: A Journey into the World of Fine Wines 🍷🇫🇷 Bordeaux is more than just a region in southwestern France; it's synonymous with the pinnacle of winemaking excellence. This iconic area marries tradition with modern technology to craft wines celebrated worldwide for their sophistication and unmatched quality. A Legacy of Excellence 🏰 The Bordeaux region, covering over 120,000 hectares, has been a hub of viticulture for over 2,000 years. Its wines, a testament to centuries of expertise and passion, offer rich flavors and elegance that cater to the most discerning palates. Visiting Bordeaux means immersing yourself in a narrative where every bottle tells a story passed down through generations. The Heart of Winemaking 🍇 Bordeaux's diverse sub-regions, like Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Pomerol, each boast a unique terroir that shapes the character of their wines. The region's reds, crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, and whites from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, showcase a spectrum of tastes, from bold and structured to soft and fruity. Artistry in Every Bottle 🖌 Winemaking in Bordeaux is a refined art, blending traditional methods with modern techniques. Vineyards are meticulously tended, and grapes are hand-picked to ensure only the finest quality reaches your glass. The aging process in oak barrels adds complexity, crafting wines with rich, layered flavors. Wine Tours & Experiences 🌍 Bordeaux is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Wine tours through renowned vineyards like Médoc and Saint-Émilion offer unforgettable experiences. Explore the Cité du Vin, a cultural center where you can dive deep into wine's history and enjoy breathtaking views of Bordeaux. Global Influence & Trade 🌐 Bordeaux wines are sought after worldwide, with significant markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. The region’s economy thrives on wine exports, with prestigious auctions like En Primeur drawing collectors globally. Bordeaux stands as the heart of French winemaking, offering wines of unmatched quality and rich heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a wine lover seeking new experiences, Bordeaux promises something special for everyone. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/ehvQqUaX #Bordeaux #Wine #FrenchWine #DailyHubNews #News #France

🍷 Uncorked Paths: Discovering Hidden Gem Vineyards Off the Beaten Track in Europe 🌍 🌟 Are you tired of the same old wine tasting experiences? Looking for something unique and off the beaten track? 🌟 Did you know that Europe is home to some of the most incredible hidden gem vineyards? 🍇 From rolling hills in Tuscany to picturesque valleys in Portugal, there's a whole world of undiscovered wine waiting to be explored. But how do you find these hidden gems? 🤔 Well, let me share a little secret with you. 🤫 It's all about embracing the undefined. 🌿 When we think of wine, we often associate it with tradition and established vineyards. But the true magic lies in the unknown, the uncharted territories of winemaking. It's in these undefined paths that you'll find the most extraordinary wines and unforgettable experiences. Imagine stumbling upon a small family-owned vineyard tucked away in the hills of Spain. The winemaker, with a twinkle in their eye, shares their passion for winemaking and guides you through a tasting of their handcrafted creations. Each sip tells a story, a tale of dedication and love for the craft. These hidden gem vineyards offer more than just exceptional wines. They provide a connection to the land, the people, and the culture. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and indulge in the flavors that have been shaped by centuries of tradition. So, how can you embark on this journey of discovery? 🌍 Start by exploring lesser-known wine regions like Slovenia, Hungary, or Greece. Seek out local recommendations and venture off the beaten track. Embrace the undefined and let it guide you to extraordinary experiences. And here's a challenge for you: share your favorite hidden gem vineyard in the comments below! 📝 Let's create a community of wine enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty of the undefined. If you found this post insightful or helpful, don't hesitate to hit that like button and share it with your network. Let's spread the joy of uncorking hidden gems together! 🙌 #HiddenGems #WineExploration #OffTheBeatenTrack