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Love it or hate it, but everyone knows these bubbles. Prosecco has transformed from a regional Italian wine to a global phenomenon, quickly becoming the go-to bubbly for celebrations and casual sips alike. Originating from the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions in Italy, Prosecco's history dates back centuries. Its name comes from the village of Prosecco, near Trieste, where the grape Glera was first cultivated. However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that Prosecco began to gain traction. The Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) was established earlier, in 1969. This classification aimed to protect the quality and origin of Prosecco wines, ensuring that they met specific production standards. The DOC designation laid the groundwork for the later creation of the DOCG in 2009, which further refined the quality criteria and focused on the premium production areas of Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo. In the early 2000s, the wine industry saw a shift in consumer preferences from expensive Champagne to more affordable sparkling wines. Prosecco, with its light, fruity character and lower price point, filled this gap perfectly. The marketing of Prosecco played a crucial role in its rise. Brands like La Marca and Mionetto cleverly positioned Prosecco as a lifestyle choice, associating it with celebrations, social gatherings, and casual brunches. The chic packaging and vibrant branding made it appealing to younger consumers, particularly millennials who sought a more approachable sparkling option. Prosecco's popularity soared with its frequent appearances in pop culture. From appearances in hit TV shows like “Sex and the City” to mentions in social media posts by influencers, the bubbly became synonymous with fun and celebration. The “Aperitivo” trend—enjoying drinks and light snacks before dinner—further cemented Prosecco’s role in modern social culture. And don't we all love Aperol or Campari Spritz?! So how is Prosecco different from the traditional method sparkling wines (eg. Champagne)? Prosecco is crafted using the charming Charmat method, also known as the tank method. It all starts with the Glera grape, which is gently pressed to extract its juice and undergoes a primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks for about 15 to 20 days. Instead of bottling the base wine right away (as happens with Champagne), it’s transferred to a sealed tank for a second fermentation, where sugar and yeast are added. This process, lasting a few weeks, generates carbon dioxide, creating those delightful bubbles we love. After the second fermentation, the wine is filtered to remove any sediment before it's bottled under pressure to keep those effervescent qualities intact. This method not only allows for quicker production but also helps maintain the fresh, fruity flavors that make Prosecco so popular, enabling wine lovers to enjoy it in large quantities without compromising on quality. Today, Prosecco is enjoyed worldwide. Countries like the UK, Australia, and the US have embraced the bubbly, with sales skyrocketing. In fact, Prosecco now outsells Champagne in several markets, a testament to its widespread appeal. Prosecco's rise to fame is a charming blend of tradition, savvy marketing, and cultural relevance. Next time you pop a bottle, remember that you’re enjoying a piece of a sparkling story that continues to evolve! Cheers! 🥂 Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward

Carnaval, samba, beaches, football, coffee and caipirinhas are some of the things that might come to mind when you think of Brazil! It’s time to add wine to that list! Hidden among the lush landscapes and vibrant culture, Brazil has been quietly producing wine for almost 500 years. Shaped by waves of immigrants and foreign influences, Brazil's wine history dates back to the mid-16th century with Portuguese colonists. Successful viticulture emerged in the mid-19th century with disease-resistant Isabella vines and later with European varieties brought by Italian immigrants. The arrival of multinational wine companies in the 1970s marked the modernisation of Brazil’s wine industry, bringing new technologies and techniques, leading to the production of export-quality wines. One of the most unexpected aspects of Brazilian wine is the diversity of grape varieties being grown. American and hybrid grapes (Isabella, Niagara, and Bordô) still make up the majority of Brazil’s wine production, mostly of table wine. However, today, Brazilian producers, which number around 1,100, are making more and more quality still and sparkling wines from a wide range of international varieties, like most planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, followed by Merlot, Pinot Noir, Trebbiano, and Tannat, to Italian grapes like Teroldego and Barbera, to Portuguese varieties like Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional, are each thriving in specific regions. Spanning from 5°N to 34°S, Brazil lies mostly outside the traditional 'wine belt' (30°S to 45°S), limiting its potential vineyard area, which at 83,000 ha is behind its prominent neighbours, Chile and Argentina. Brazil's diverse wine regions each offer unique characteristics. Brazil’s winegrowing areas are officially divided into six regions, though much of the country’s wine production happens outside these formal bounds. The southernmost region of Brazil is responsible for the majority of wine produced (and includes most of the official regions) in the country, but in Brazil’s central and northern regions, where the weather is less conducive to traditional winegrowing, innovative, experimental viticultural techniques are being deployed. In Southern Brazil, the cooler, drier climate of Rio Grande do Sul, particularly the Serra Gaúcha region, is ideal for vineyards and is home to Brazil’s first DO, Vale dos Vinhedos, while Santa Catarina's high plateau excels with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Central Brazil’s Serra da Mantiqueira employs winter viticulture, highlighting Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. In Northern Brazil, the Vale do São Francisco in Bahia state is the closest wine region to the equator in the world! This semi-arid tropical region employs innovative tropical viticulture techniques, allowing for two harvests per year, producing potent Syrah and fresh Chenin Blanc with vines yielding twice annually, leading to year-round harvests. This demonstrates that quality wine can be produced outside the traditional wine-growing latitudes. Within South America, Brazil is the "it" region for sparkling winemaking, with Pinto Bandeiro becoming the first DO exclusively for traditional-method sparkling wines outside Europe. Sparkling wines are generally made with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, offering excellent value for money and putting Brazilian wine on the map. Brazilian still wines offer unique experiences, embodying the lightness, freshness, and energetic spirit distinctive of Brazil, backed by quality tested by critics and international competitions. Brazilian wine is not just about what's in the bottle, but also about the experience. Imagine sipping a glass of sparkling Moscatel while enjoying a traditional churrasco barbecue, exploring the historic vineyards of the Vale dos Vinhedos or joining a guided tour through the São Roque wine trail just an hour away from São Paulo. The combination of Brazilian warmth and hospitality and stunning natural beauty with distinctive world-class wine is a truly unforgettable experience. As the world of wine continues to evolve and expand, Brazilian wine industry that is still taking shape has the ability to surprise and inspire. So , the next time you're looking to expand your wine horizons, consider stepping off the beaten path and discovering the unexpected delights of Brazilian wine. And if you need any tips, contact me to help you organise your trip. Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward

To mark the English Wine Week, I thought I'd write what I think about English Wines (though we should not forget about the rest of the UK, so when you say Great British Wine, not only it sounds very proud, it is actually accurate). The tone of the above introduction word must have already given away how fond I am of local wines. It wasn't love from the first sip, though. Some 15 years ago, when I had a chance to try the English Sparkling, I didn't really taste to me much different to an English Sider (which on a sunny day with ice in a glass was more welcomed than a glass of bubbles with the same squeaky acidity, high sugar to mask it, and not much more flavour past the apple and lemon). Fast-forward to the present day, and I'm blown away by how much it evolved. The traditional method Sparkling has been giving Champagne a run for its money for a good several years now (no wonder the French started buying the vineyards here), however, recently the still Whites (and to a lesser extent Roses and even Reds) started to shine as well. And I absolutely fell in love with them, I can't advocate it enough. So let's shine a bit more light on the Great British Wine scene and show you the industry in numbers. Barely starting from the 1980s, when there were only 211ha planted with vines, the vineyard area has exploded in the last decade when 2,200ha were added, and now surpassed the 4,000ha mark. The vast majority of the vines are in England, with under 100ha in Wales and just over 1ha scattered between Scotland and Channel Islands. Chardonnay proudly holds the first place by the area planted, followed closely by Pinot Noir, which together amount to around 60% of all plantings. Production volumes vary year on year (surprise, surprise, Global Warming or not - English weather is still a thing) with over 5m bottles produced in 2017, rising to over 13m in 2018 and levelling itself to around 9m in the last couple of years. Regardless of the production volumes the distribution stays more or less 70/30 between sparkling and still wines. In 2022 the total number of registered vineyards has reached 897 with 197 wineries, which contributes to the rural economy by providing over 10,000 full-time jobs in a vast range of areas from the essential roles in the vineyards and wineries, to administration, sales, tourism and hospitality. And I must say that the Wine Tourism scene is booming now - from simple vineyard tours and tastings, to high cuisine restaurants on site and astonishing accommodation. Stronger infrastructure within the wineries is translated into a high percentage of Cellar Doors sales, which now together with own online sales, represents over 50%. The British definitely started to appreciate the local produce driving domestic sales up year on year, but the fame is spreading outside of the UK and the exports are rising to almost 5% with Scandinavia, Japan and USA leading the way. I have no doubts about the bright future for the Great British Wine Industry and I am proud to play my part not just by consuming a fair share (😁) but also by showcasing the wines at my tastings. #EnglishWineWeek

Nestled in the heart of Spain, north-west from Madrid, between Toro and Ribera del Duero, lies a beautiful region of Rueda, known for its exquisite white wines from the indigenous variety - Verdejo. In the Middle Ages, the vineyards on this stony Castilian plateau, rich in lime and iron, were flourishing and the limestone underneath the town was holding plenty of cellars. However, after the disastrous Phylloxera the area went into rapid decline and turned to the production of bulk wines from Palomino, often fortified in the Sherry style. Verdejo was rescued by the Rioja's power producer Marqués de Riscal, who recognised the region's and this grape's potential for making exceptional wines and decided to move his production of white wines here in the 1970s. That was a rebirth of this fantastic variety, which now along with Albariño from Rías Baixas ranks among Spain's finest white wines. The Verdejo wines are a reflection of the region's terroir and the dedication of its winemakers. Crafted with precision and passion, these wines are aromatic and elegant, surprising the palate with a soft feel despite their crisp citrus acidity, vibrant fruit flavours, and a signature herbaceous note that lingers on the finish. The wines from Rueda showcase the versatility of the Verdejo grape and the winemaking expertise of producers in the region. From zesty and refreshing style to a more complex and oak-influenced expressions, to late harvest sweet wines and even sparkling wines, made by the traditional or Charmat method, offering a lively and effervescent alternative. In addition to varietal Verdejo wines, blending with Sauvignon Blanc or Viura (Macabeo) can also add balanced complexity. Verdejo wines are gaining popularity internationally for their unique aromatic profile and excellent food-pairing capabilities. While Rueda remains the primary region for Verdejo production, other regions are beginning to experiment with and cultivate this grape variety to produce their own unique expressions of Verdejo wines. Some examples include the United States (particularly in California), Australia, and Portugal. Visiting Rueda is a chance to immerse yourself in the essence of Verdejo and experience firsthand the magic of this ancient grape variety. And if you need any tips, contact me to help you organise your trip. Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or never had a drop of wine in your life, you've heard about Bordeaux. Renowned for their rich history and exceptional quality, Bordeaux wines are standing the test of time as classic favourites enjoyed for centuries. Each bottle tells a story of tradition and innovation, captivating wine enthusiasts worldwide with their elegance and sophistication. However, there are plenty of nations to thank for the current fame and reputation of the Bordeaux region. Starting with the Romans, who, back in the 1st century BC, played a pivotal role by introducing viticulture practices, planting vineyards, enhancing winemaking techniques, and fostering a wine culture. The Dutch helped to expand the vineyard areas by draining marshes and swamps, as well as establishing trade connections and innovative distribution channels. The British were instrumental in developing the modern wine trade system, promoting Bordeaux wines globally. What is less commonly known, is the profound impact that Irish had, ultimately shaping the reputation and success of Bordeaux's grands crus wines, through blending practices with wines from the Rhone Valley and Eastern Spain, creating complex and balanced wines to meet the demands of elite British and Irish consumers. In recent years, countries like the United States, China, and Japan have emerged as key modern markets for Bordeaux. The surge in demand for premium Bordeaux wines among affluent Chinese consumers and collectors led to price increases for renowned châteaux like Lafite Rothschild and Margaux. While Chinese buyers were willing to pay premium prices, fluctuations in the Chinese economy and government regulations have also influenced Bordeaux wine prices over time. The timeless appeal of Bordeaux wines though lies in their ability to balance tradition with innovation, creating wines that are not only classic but also continually sought after. The Bordeaux region has been embracing various innovative practices like sustainable and organic farming, increasingly using technology like drones, sensors, and GPS mapping to monitor vine health, optimise irrigation, and tailor vineyard management. Collaboration among winemakers, research institutions, and wine associations ensures that advancements are made thoughtfully, with a deep respect for Bordeaux's winemaking heritage. The wineries are leveraging digital tools and platforms to enhance the visitor experience, promote wine tourism, and reach a wider audience. While more renowned for its red blends, Bordeaux has a diverse wine offering that spans from elegant white wines to lusciously sweet and complex Sauternes and Barsac. Rosé is becoming increasingly popular, with a refreshing, fruit-forward profile. Lesser known, Bordeaux also produces traditional method sparkling wines under the appellation Crémant de Bordeaux, making it affordable alternative to Champagne. Bordeaux wines are a true classic that has been able to adapt to modern tastes while maintaining their timeless appeal. With their rich history, exceptional quality, and unmatched complexity, Bordeaux wines will continue to be a staple in the world of fine wine for years to come. Do you want to know about my next tasting? Sign up to my mailing list. Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward

Changing careers from finance to wine, I have found myself transitioning from one male-dominated industry to another. I have never really given it a lot of thought, but I guess I was quite lucky in my professional career to receive support from both men and women I have worked with. Looking back at my years in the financial world, I can say that the industry's dynamic is different - it's the survival of the fittest, and women have proven that they can be as successful as men when it comes to dealing with money. In fact, they are more organised and efficient and can also make better decisions by following not just logic but also their intuition. In the wine world, the situation is much less advanced. For centuries, it has been a gentlemen's game, closely guarded from women's touch. Of course, there are pioneering women here as well, from Madam Clicquot to Sarah Morphew Stephen, the first female Master of Wine; to Jancis Robinson OBE, MW, whose name is synonymous with wine now; and researchers like Dr. Laura Catena, who dedicate their lives to the advancement of the industry. What makes this so unique is that women really like to work together in their mission. You can see it every day, but it becomes even more apparent at big events like the Women in Wine Expo, in which I was lucky to be involved for the second consecutive year. When Senay Ozdemir, the woman behind this prestigious international event, asked me if I wanted to be part of the organising team again, I didn't have to think twice. This year's 4th edition of WIWE took place in the wonderful city of Porto, which welcomed us with great weather, wonderful people, and absolutely spectacular venues for the conference: The Taylor's Port's stunning rooftop gardens with amazing views of the sunset for the reception, the brand new riverfront chic hotel The Rebello for the second-day masterclasses, and the WOW Gallery for the conference and tasting on the last day. The event was packed with activities, entertainment, and information, uniting over a hundred women from 27 countries. You can read my full recap article on the WIWE website later this week. Here, I'd like to share my personal experience from behind the scenes. It all starts with one wonderful woman, Senay Ozdemir, the driving force behind the WIWE. Her determination and passion for delivering a positive environment where women can learn, network, and have fun has once again delivered an unforgettable 3-day event. There is a lot of work involved to make it happen, and I couldn't be more proud to stand by her and deliver my support together with her loyal team. The fully packed program went beyond industry insights from different parts of the world, the discovery of unique grape varieties at the tasting masterclasses, and sustainability discussions. It delved deep into personal stories of women, who are not scared to share their struggles and celebrate their success. All our efforts pay off when you see the smiles on the delegates' faces and the tears of happiness in the eyes of those who attended it not for the first time. These ladies don't just make business connections; they become friends. And it's felt by the newcomers as well, who are not left behind and are welcomed into the family with open arms. The unity, the sense of safety, and belonging to a supportive community are what make this event so special. The stories shared and the memories made will warm the hearts until we meet again next year. The most curious thing that stood out for me during those 3 days was the results of the survey conducted by the Burgundy School of Business MBA students about female wine consumption. There were a lot of answers, but the one that struck me the most was the fact that when asked about their wine knowledge, women tend to be less confident in their level than men, even with the same or higher official qualifications. And I know this is a fact from personal experience - even after finishing my WSET Diploma and becoming a certified educator, I still feel like I don't know enough about the world of wine. Perhaps, though, us women should have more confidence in our own knowledge, expertise, and skills, as we are definitely not falling behind the men on that. If we have proved it in the finance world, we can definitely prove it in wine, especially with all the incredible support we give to each other. Cheers to the ladies in wine. Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward (Unless separate credit is stated)

Portugal is a very rich cultural country with wine being in the heart of it. With over 250 grape varieties, you will find an abundance of styles - from Traditional Method Sparkling of Bairada, light whites of Vinho Verde, fuller bodied and oak aged whites of Alentejo, light Rosés, a myriad of red wine styles and, of course, Port. However, Portugal has much more to offer. Here is a snapshot of a possible itinerary with a difference, travelling from the South to the North. If you like art and nature, nothing can beat the Eden Garden, an enchanting oasis just an hour north of Lisbon. Created in 2001 by Commander Joe Berardo, The Bacalhôa Buddha Eden Garden spans over 35 hectares, making it the largest oriental garden in Europe. Inspired by the tragic loss of the Buddhas of Bamiyan, this garden pays homage to Asian and African cultures through a stunning array of sculptures set amidst lush green spaces. Once you soaked in the grandness of this wonder garden, indulge in a wine tasting or unique wine-based drinks like white or red sangrias, or the vibrant "cocktail" wine infused with blueberries. Just under 2 hours drive to the north, in the charming town of Aliança, the Aliança Underground Museum offers a truly unique experience where visitors can immerse themselves in history, culture, and wine-making traditions while exploring a diverse array of art collections. In the underground caves, you can marvel at the collections from African Ethnography to Contemporary Sculptures from Zimbabwe, explore Archeology, Minerals, and Fossils, admire Tilework and Ceramics of Caldas da Rainha, and India – Myth, Sensuality, and Fiction exhibits. This innovative concept of combining wine and art creates a captivating and educational experience that is sure to delight history enthusiasts, art lovers, and wine connoisseurs alike. Another hour to the north and you get to Porto, a must-visit destination for any wine lover. Here, in the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, you will find the World of Wine - WOW - the whole brand new expansive cultural district. Born from renovated old Port wine warehouses, WOW is now housing seven museums, twelve restaurants and bars, shops, and a wine school. You can spend the whole day there discovering the rich history and vibrant art scene of Porto through interactive exhibits and engaging workshops. The WOW Centre truly embodies the spirit of Porto, offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with the city's heritage in a fun and educational way. It also provides a unique venue for the International conferences, like Women in Wine Expo. From the centuries-old vineyards producing world-renowned wines to the captivating art galleries, Portugal's unique blend of wine and art creates a dynamic and enriching journey for those seeking to explore the beauty and creativity that Portugal has to offer. Would you come with me to Portugal to discover the arts and wines of this beautiful country? Drop me a message. Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward (unless other credit is stated)

In light of celebrations of the World Chardonnay Day, I wanted to talk about the ABC (Anything but Chardonnay) club. Even at the start of my wine appreciation (read: "drinking") journey I was confused by this concept - I couldn't understand what this famous white grape had to do to gain such a horrid reputation? Officially originating from Burgundy, Chardonnay started its world domination crusade in the 19th century and very quickly spread out to every corner of the world where winemaking exists. Even here, in the UK, it's the most planted grape variety. A natural cross between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc, it's very adaptable to different soils and growing conditions, it's not susceptible to many diseases and, as long as it doesn't get those spring frosts after an early bud burst, it can produce a good quality fruit at relatively high yields, so it's loved by grape growers. Being a so-called semi-aromatic variety, Chardonnay is a very versatile grape - it can vividly reflect the terroir (climate, soils, growing conditions), as well as the multiple winemaking techniques and an array of fermentation and maturation vessels to produce a multitude of styles: from sparkling, to crisp and mineral, to ripe and tropical, to rich and buttery. So, undeniably, it's adored by winemakers. According to Liv-ex (the fine wine trading exchange), Burgundy has gone from strengths to strengths with prices surpassing Bordeaux wines year after year, pointing out that amongst the wine connoisseurs and collectors, the popularity only grows. So what is it that made Chardonnay so unpopular? Arguably, the widespread of the grape into the New World went too quickly, being planted for volume rather than quality. To mask the lack of natural fruit flavours and to imitate the work of their French counterparts, producers turned to the help of oak...in their usual fashion: the bigger - the better. Often using American oak (which gives sweeter spices) and, in a mass production, just chucking the wood chips into a stainless steel tank rather than putting the wine in a barrel, which is way cheaper but never gives a good flavour integration. In the 1980s-90s, literally at all quality levels the heavily oaked Chardonnays emerged, encouraged by the high scores from Robert Parker (a famous American wine critic) at the top, and by the sweetness craving consumers of the New world. The wine scene globally got flooded with cheap sub premium wines from US and Australia, and the European drinkers' more "delicate" pallets got quickly tired of all that butter and vanilla, but instead of searching for lighter, more refined styles they felt it's safer to abandon the Chardonnay grape altogether. However, that was almost there decades ago! The styles of Chardonnay have changed significantly, even in the New World. Of course, there’re still some of the overtly oaked wines found, however, they are now far and few apart. Majority will showcase the fruit, reflect the terroir, and the oak, where used, is delicately integrated. Yet somehow I still consistently hear around “I don't like Chardonnay”. My question is - which Chardonnay don’t you like? If you can’t answer this question, I would love to take on the challenge and help you discover your favorite from the huge variety of styles this grape is capable of producing. Although, chances are that you have been a secret Chardonnay lover all along, if you enjoy popping a bottle of Champagne or pouring a glass of Chablis. FYI: There might just be a stunning Chardonnay included in my upcoming Wine Roulette tasting. ;) #worldchardonnayday #chardonnay #wine

Just as Chile saved Carménère and made this grape its national treasure, Argentina has done the same with Malbec. Original pre-phylloxera vines traveled from Cahors across the Atlantic and found a new home in the much more favourable conditions of the Andean foothills in Mendoza. Argentina has a large number of old vines and producers take great pride in preserving them. The climate here has proven to be perfect for this grape to thrive. The long sunshine hours allow for perfect ripening and development of sugar, fruit aromas, colour and smooth tannins. The cold nights help slow down this process, adding fresher flowery and herbal notes and preserving acidity. This results in perfectly concentrated and balanced wines that can showcase the terroir and varietal properties, but can also shine through the integration of oak flavours. The producers are climbing to the highest altitudes in the world to experiment with the different soil types and are embracing the challenges that come with these extreme conditions. The winemakers have also advanced in production methods, with many of them adopting the gravity-fed processes, organic vineyard management, and the use of optical sorters to ensure only the best berries are used in the wines. They may argue among themselves about the best styles, use of oak or inert vessels, maturation times, and other technical issues, but one thing everyone can agree on is that there is no compromise on quality, regardless of production volumes. Mendoza is the perfect example of the biggest and most famous wine region that has gained its reputation for producing high-quality yet affordable wines and a selection of outstanding fine wines. Grapes are grown throughout the country, from the very North to the vineyards in Patagonia, and from the foothills of the Andes to the shores of the Atlantic. Besides the star grape of Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are also widely planted and produce some exceptional quality red wines. Some producers go for less common varieties such as Sangiovese, Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot, and Alicante Bouschet. The signature white grape is Torrontés, which flourishes at high altitudes in Cafayate, Salta, producing highly aromatic wines with notes of pineapple, apricot, blossom, and lychee, perfectly balanced by high acidity. Whites are less popular in Mendoza, but you can still find high-quality Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as rare gems like Riesling and Sémillon. The hospitality side would also surprise you a lot. Most have much more to offer than a simple wine tasting and a quick tour of the facilities: from the simple lunches with local produce to fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants nested among the vines, staying in a few rooms in the bodega, or enjoying a whole villa with a private swimming pool. The investment side of the business is also thriving. Are you dreaming of owning your own vineyard that is professionally managed, having a personal winemaker who will make the wine according to your specifications, and finishing it off with a dedicated designer to help you with the label? The sky is the limit. The dedication of producers to preserving old vines, experimenting with different altitudes and production methods, and offering unique hospitality experiences showcases the country's commitment to excellence in winemaking. With a focus on quality, innovation, and hospitality, Argentina continues to shine as a prominent player in the global wine market, attracting wine enthusiasts and investors alike. Cheers to Argentina's vibrant wine scene! Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023-2024 Nelly Ward

Nestled between the spectacular Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Chile has emerged as a key player in the world of wine, with one grape variety in particular standing out - Carménère. Often referred to as Chile's signature grape, Carménère has a fascinating history and a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart. Carménère's journey is one of rediscovery. Originally from Bordeaux, France, this grape variety was thought to have been lost during the Phylloxera epidemic that devastated European vineyards in the 19th century. However, in a surprising twist of fate, it was found thriving in Chile's vineyards, masquerading as Merlot for decades until the DNA testing confirmed its identity in the 90s. (Don't ask me how it could have ever passed for Merlot, as to me the differences are so profound in the tasting profile and in the grape growing characteristics!). Chile's diverse terroir plays a crucial role in shaping the character of Carménère wines. The grape thrives in the country's distinct microclimates, where warm days and cool nights contribute to optimal ripening conditions. The well-drained soils, combined with ample sunlight and consistent temperatures, result in wines that express the unique Chilean terroir. What sets Chilean Carménère apart is its captivating flavor profile. Expect a symphony of dark fruit flavors such as blackberry and plum, intertwined with subtle notes of green pepper, tobacco, and chocolate. The wine's velvety texture and smooth tannins make it a delight to savor, while its vibrant acidity adds a refreshing touch. As Chilean winemakers continue to explore Carménère's potential, we see a spectrum of expressions, from approachable everyday wines to complex, age-worthy bottles. Whether unoaked or aged in premium barrels, each winery puts its unique stamp on this enigmatic grape, offering wine enthusiasts a diverse array of choices and making it an ideal companion for a wide range of dishes. Chilean Carménère stands as a testament to the country's winemaking prowess and its ability to revive this lost grape variety. From its mysterious past to the unique flavors it imparts, Carménère has found a new home in Chile, captivating palates around the world. So, the next time you uncork a bottle of Chilean Carménère, you're not just tasting wine; you're sipping a piece of Chilean winemaking history! Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023 Nelly Ward

Barolo, truffles and an astonishing mosaic of hills - the calling card of Piedmont region... Piedmont, a picturesque region in northern Italy, is a haven for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Renowned for its exceptional wines and the elusive truffle, Piedmont offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking a gastronomic adventure. The region's diverse terroir, coupled with the expertise of its winemakers, makes it a home to some of Italy's most celebrated wines of exceptional quality and character. Nebbiolo grape is undoubtedly the King here, producing some of the best wines in the world - the noble Barolo and Barbaresco. But let's not forget the elegant Barbera and Dolcetto and the refreshing white wines of Gavi di Gavi - Piedmontese wines showcase a wide range of flavors, aromas, and aging potential. No visit to Piedmont is complete without immersing yourself in its wine culture and ancient truffle traditions. Truffle hunting is a thrilling immersive experience through Piedmont's picturesque landscapes in the pursuit of these elusive gourmet treasures hidden beneath the earth. The intoxicating scent of truffles fills the air as you witness the extraordinary partnership between truffle hunters and their loyal canine companions. Piedmont is home to some of the world's most coveted truffle species, each possessing its own unique aroma and flavour profiles. The White Alba Truffle is the most sought-after variety and the region gets very busy from the end of October throughout the winter with the hunters coming from all over the world in hope to get their hands on these illusive treasures. The marriage of Piedmontese wines and truffles is a match made in culinary heaven. The earthy and complex flavours of truffles beautifully complement the robust and structured wines of the region. From the earthy notes of Barolo with truffle-infused pasta to the vibrant acidity of Barbera with truffle risotto - the art of pairing these two delicacies creates the endless possibilities for indulgence. Piedmont offers a sensory journey like no other, where the world of wines and truffles intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. From the vineyards that produce exceptional wines to the enchanting truffle hunts that unveil hidden treasures, this region captivates both the palate and the soul. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a food lover seeking new adventures, a trip to Piedmont will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and truffle hunting. Cheers to the magical pairing of wines of Piedmont and the captivating world of truffles! Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023 Nelly Ward

Under the blue skies and in even bluer waters of the Aegean Sea seats a beautiful island of Santorini. The living landscape is captivating: cute white cave houses, excavated into the rock, coexist harmoniously with blue-domed churches and windmills, surrounded by cobblestone paths with hundreds of steep steps. The breathtaking views from virtually any point at the Caldera of still technically active volcano, Black and Red beaches, crystal clear warm water, heart stopping sunsets, unbelievable fresh cuisine - if that's not enough for you to call this place a paradise, wait till you try the wines. The hot, sunny, dry climate with no rainfall during the vine growing season and very strong winds, that blow year round virtually from all directions forced the winegrowers to come up with a unique vine training technique, where the vines are woven in a circle and laid out in the shape of a basket - "kouloura" - to protect them from the harsh weather conditions and collect water from the early morning mists brought from the Caldera. The wonders don't stop there. The ash-rich volcanic soils made the island immune to the Phylloxera, making it the sanctuary of some of the oldest ungrafted vines in the world. The wine production is dominated by the local white varieties, with Assyrtiko being the iconic grape not just of Santorini, but arguably of Greece as a whole. Assyrtiko is a very versatile yet distinctive grape with crisp acidity and strong mineral character with a savoury density, reflecting the volcanic soils and salinity coming from the sea. It can produce different styles from leaner steely energised wines for early drinking, to complex age-worthy textural examples matured on the lees and/or in oak, that can develop immensely in the bottle. It also forms a backbone of Vinsanto - a sweet wine made from late-harvested and sun-dried grapes, often aged for over 15years in oak, resulting in almost black syrupy goodness with flavours of fig, chocolate and coffee, brought to live by high acidity. Other indigenous grapes which add to the diversity of the region's wines are Athiri and Aidani, producing crisp, aromatic white wines and often blended with Assyrtiko; and Mavrotragano, producing rich red wines with soft silky tannins and notes of dark fruit, tobacco, and spices. Wines have been produced in Santorini for thousands of years, but now, as in many beautiful spots of the world, the land under vines is giving way to the touristic infrastructure, as more commercially viable. I'd say the balance is still there at the moment, however, one can only hope that it will remain and the vineyards will be preserved. After all, the wines of Santorini are the undeniable part of this unique paradise in the Aegean Sea. Gallery © All images on this page are subject to copyright. 2023 Nelly Ward