Alsace’s 1ers Crus Classification
For some time now, we’ve been hearing whispers about the potential creation of a 1er Cru category for Alsace wines. What are the potential challenges and opportunities brought by the new classification?
White House wine – what do US Presidents drink?
As election day approaches, we take a look back at the favourite tipples of the many wine-loving US presidents, with facts and anecdotes from ‘Mint Juleps with Teddy Roosevelt’ by Mark Will-Weber.
Does a wine bottle punt mean better quality? – Ask Decanter
Many wine bottles have indented bottoms, but not all. Justin Knock MW on why, and whether there is a relation to quality - as some people believe.
Does bottling New World wines in Europe affect the wine? – ask Decanter
A significant amount of New World wine is now bottled at its destination, a trend that supermarkets have helped to drive in the UK. But what effect, if any, does this have on the wine? Barry Dick MW tells Decanter a bit more about the process.
What is the role of oak barrels?
The broad spectrum of flavours and aromas that toasted new oak can impart to wine is more than familiar, from vanilla and caramel to rich mocha and baking spices. But costing as much as £700 a piece, it would be hard to justify purchasing new oak barrels for their flavour alone. So what exactly is the role these expensive vessels play?
Understanding wine aromas – ask Decanter
What is the difference between primary and secondary aromas?
Wine shipping costs – ask Decanter
Is it more expensive to ship wine from further away?
Understanding wine blending: The basics
What are the basics of wine blending and what do winemakers think about when preparing a blend?
Who’s shaping the Chinese wine market
Will there ever be an individual who's influential enough to hold sway over the Chinese market? Wine educator Julien Boulard said the key influential factor may well be a ‘what’, rather than a ‘who’...
Keeping decanters clean – ask Decanter
How do you keep your decanter crystal-clear over time?