Wine, in all its guises, encompasses many more factors than what happens in the cellar. As former Buyer Oli Barton discusses here, Bordeaux’s climate can have a substantial impact on a year’s work across the whole region Bordeaux’s weather can be highly variable. For the Bordelais, this is a serious matter; it directly affects their […]

In the midst of our 2016 Rhône campaign, we ask Wine Buyer Oliver Barton to highlight wines and appellations which are often, unfairly, overlooked We list a wide selection of top northern Rhônes and Châteauneuf-du-Papes (and, rightly so!). But, there are many other appellations and wines that are commonly ignored but which can offer great […]

As the region’s 2015 wines are released en primeur, Oliver Barton reports on a trip to the region – tasting the wines and talking to the people who made them A very good vintage in the Rhône valley is long overdue, as we have been waiting for one since the all-round winner of 2010. Well, […]

Ahead of Guy Fawkes Night with its flurry of bonfires and fireworks displays, Buying Assistant Oliver Barton introduces a suitably warming selection of wood-smoke-friendly wines It’s time to get out the thick coats, gloves and scarves, to keep ourselves warm on cold evenings and – on the night of the 5th of November – to […]