206K visits/month

Simon Judge

  • Understanding Wines of Alentejo, Portugal

    Understanding Wines of Alentejo, Portugal

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    This region blends age-old practices with modern techniques, producing wines that are highly regarded both in Portugal and across the globe. The geography of Alentejo is marked by rolling plains, varied soil types and a Mediterranean climate. Soils such as schist, clay, granite, marble and limestone provide the perfect foundation for grape cultivation. The predominantly hot and dry climate, with a strong continental influence, further enhances the conditions for growing high-quality grapes. Alentejo is subdivided into eight distinct sub-regions: Borba, Évora, Granja-Amareleja, Moura, Portalegre, Redondo, Reguengos, and Vidigueira. Each of these sub-regions contributes to the region’s wine diversity. Portalegre, with…

  • Lowest Wine Output Since 1961

    Lowest Wine Output Since 1961

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    The OIV’s new 2024 World Wine Production Outlook (PDF) highlights a challenging year for the global wine industry, with production estimated at 227 to 235 million hectolitres, reflecting a 2% decline from 2023 and a 13% decrease compared to the ten-year average. This marks the lowest global output since 1961, primarily driven by adverse climatic conditions across both hemispheres. In Europe, production has been significantly affected by extreme weather, with France experiencing a sharp 23% drop, while Italy regains its position as the leading global producer despite remaining 13% below its five-year average. Spain, although improving from 2023, remains 4%…

  • M&S Collection Amarone della Valpolicella

    M&S Collection Amarone della Valpolicella

    , , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    The M&S Collection series is their premium wine range, designed to elevate their offerings and showcase winemaking craftsmanship. Among these, the Amarone della Valpolicella 2021 is, so far, my favourite in the collection. This wine, produced by Cantine Giacomo Montresor, a winery with roots dating back to 1892, comes in at 14.5% ABV. While on the lower end of the typical Amarone spectrum (14-16% ABV, often exceeding 15%), this balance hints on what’s to come. A blend of 60% Corvina, 20% Corvinone, and 10% Rondinella grapes, it employs the traditional appassimento technique. The grapes are partially dried for up to…

  • Terra Organica Prosecco

    Terra Organica Prosecco

    , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Terra Organica Prosecco is an organic and vegan-friendly Prosecco, notable for being the first of its kind to eliminate the traditional foil cap, a decision aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and waste. It is made in small batches by the family-run winery led by winemaker Claudio Galosi. The prosecco features a low alcohol content of 10.5%, making it a lighter, yet still very flavoursome choice. Each purchase of Terra Organica contributes 1% of the sale to non-profit organisations dedicated to protecting the environment, underlining the brand’s commitment to ecological causes. Terra Organica Prosecco has a fine, delicate mousse, a…

  • Zwiesel Bordeaux Wine Glasses

    Zwiesel Bordeaux Wine Glasses

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Zwiesel Glas, established in 1872 and rooted in the traditional glassmaking heritage of the Bavarian Forest, has become a trusted name in glassware. Zwiesel Glas sent me their Bordeaux Viña and The Moment range wine glasses to try, each suited to different occasions: ‘Viña’ for everyday use and ‘The Moment’ for those special occasions. The Viña Burgundy goblet has an expansive, bulbous shape, ideal for enhancing the flavours and aromas of red wine. At 221 mm in height and 111 mm in diameter, these Tritan® crystal glasses are machine-blown yet retain a refined shape and feel, with a rim that…

  • Marques Del Norte Rioja Gran Reserva

    Marques Del Norte Rioja Gran Reserva

    , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    After the recent Asda press tasting, I decided to revisit the Marques Del Norte Rioja Gran Reserva to see if my initial impression of it being a great wine still held. With an ABV of 14%, this wine is also a 2024 IWSC Bronze Medal Winner. This Gran Reserva, made entirely from 100% Tempranillo grapes, is richly aromatic. It offers an aroma of black fruits, chocolate and a gentle hint of oak. On the palate, it delivers flavours of cherry, liquorice, vanilla and a little spice. Upon re-tasting, I also found it reminiscent of M&S’s El Duque De Miralta Rioja…

  • Barón De Ley Gran Reserva Rioja

    Barón De Ley Gran Reserva Rioja

    , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    This wine, 2017 vintage, 14% ABV, is produced exclusively in years deemed exceptional. It is aged for 24 months in a mix of American and French oak, followed by an additional 36 months in the bottle. Its aroma is classically Rioja, evoking the hallmark ripe cherries, vanilla and slight smokey notes you’d expect. On the palate, it is smooth with low to medium tannins, offering a soft and inviting texture. This is actually in contrast to the sister wine Barón de Ley Finca Monasterio 2019 I previously tried, which is much more tannic. The mid to end taste of this…

  • Waitrose Food & Drink Report 2024

    Waitrose Food & Drink Report 2024

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Waitrose have a new Food and Drink Report based on a survey of over 3,200 people who have shopped at Waitrose in the preceding three months to October 2024. The findings highlight a noticeable shift in customer drinking habits. Sales of no- and low-alcohol wines have risen significantly, up by 17% compared to previous periods. Boxed wines have also gained further traction, with sales increasing by 9% this year, reflecting a growing preference for convenience and sustainability among shoppers. Rosé wines, traditionally associated with summer months, are now enjoyed year-round. There is also an emerging preference for darker, more complex…

  • Wines of New York State

    Wines of New York State

    , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    In late November 2024, I attended a wine tasting event focused on the wines of New York State, presented by Jamie Goode. Jamie Goode, renowned for his book Wine Science, brought his expertise and insight to an intriguing exploration of a region not typically associated with wine production. While New York State might not be a household name in the world of wine, it is, surprisingly, the third-largest producer in the United States. The wines featured in the tasting were predominantly from the Finger Lakes region, with one notable inclusion from Long Island. Over the course of the evening, we…

  • 25% Off Wine at Waitrose

    25% Off Wine at Waitrose

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Waitrose has 25% off 6 bottles or more of wine and Champagne priced between £6 and £100 from 27 November to 3 December 2024 inclusive. See the recent press tasting for tips on what to buy.

  • Exploring Plant-Based Alternatives to Sulphur Dioxide in Winemaking

    Exploring Plant-Based Alternatives to Sulphur Dioxide in Winemaking

    , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Winemaking has long relied on sulphur dioxide (SO₂) for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, ensuring the stability and quality of wines. However, slight concerns about its health impacts and allergenic potential have prompted the search for natural alternatives. Recent research highlights the potential of a plant-based tannin blend (referred to as SDR) as a substitute for SO₂ in white, rosé and red wines. SDR has demonstrated promise as a viable alternative, particularly in white and red wines. Unlike traditional SO₂, SDR-treated white and rosé wines showed elevated levels of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity, suggesting an enhanced protective quality. However,…

  • WineGB Top Awarded Wines of 2024

    WineGB Top Awarded Wines of 2024

    , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    There’s a new Golden 50 Wines List, curated by WineGB in collaboration with the Vineyard & Winery Show. This list highlights the finest wines from England and Wales, all of which received gold medals across ten national and international competitions this year.The Golden 50 Wines List features 50 wines chosen from over 100 gold medal recipients in 2024. These awards were earned at renowned competitions such as the WineGB Awards, Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine Challenge, among others. Leading producers such as Gusbourne, Chapel Down, and Langham took centre stage, with Gusbourne receiving 11 gold medals across…

  • Tim Atkin MW Ribera del Duero Selection

    Tim Atkin MW Ribera del Duero Selection

    , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Each September, Tim Atkin MW spends two weeks in Ribera del Duero, meeting winemakers and sampling a large number of wines. This year, he tasted about 551 wines from 173 bodegas. In November 2024, he presented the fifth annual selection of his top 100 wines, with scores, at a tasting event in London. The top 100 wines all scored 94 points or more, representing the best of the region. In addition to the top 100, the event featured high-scoring selections in two extra categories, Ribera del Duero on a Budget highlighting wines costing €16 euros or less and Unrepresented Producers…

  • Abruzzo’s Signature Wines

    Abruzzo’s Signature Wines

    , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    In mid-November 2024, I attended an Abruzzo wine tasting event in London. The trade-focused event showcased a range of wines from the Abruzzo region, including whites such as Trebbiano d’Abruzzo and Pecorino d’Abruzzo, the vibrant rosé Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, and the region’s iconic red, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Most of the producers were seeking representation in the UK. There were approximately 100 wines on offer from about 12 producers, although, with hindsight, the exact numbers are hard to know. Unusually for a trade tasting of this nature, there was no accompanying tasting booklet. This lack of information made keeping track of what I…

  • Three Finger Jack Old Vine Zinfandel

    Three Finger Jack Old Vine Zinfandel

    , , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    This wine, from California, takes its name from the notorious gunslinger Three Finger Jack, a figure from California’s Gold Rush era of the 1800s. Made as an homage to his bold spirit, the wine is aged in a combination of French and American oak, enhancing its depth and complexity. This 2020 vintage offers inviting aromas of raisins, black fruits, smoke and leather. This wine is smooth and luxurious, with a velvety texture that coats the tongue, undoubtedly influenced by its high 15% ABV. Flavours of ripe blackberries dominate, complemented by a smoky undertone that lingers. This full-bodied Zinfandel is fruit-forward…

  • North Canterbury Pinot Noir

    North Canterbury Pinot Noir

    , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    This Pinot Noir from North Canterbury, New Zealand, was my top pick of a recent Asda press tasting, where over 100 wines were sampled and where many others agreed it was a highlight. Its quality has been recognised with a Bronze Medal at both the IWSC 2024 and IWC 2023. I had to take a more in-depth look. Its light brown hue is unusual for a 2020 vintage, immediately catching the eye. The cigar-like aroma and savoury spice notes hint at complexity and depth, inviting further exploration. On tasting, delicate hints of violets and herbs weave through an intriguing, deep,…

  • Protest Against February Duty Hike on Wine

    Protest Against February Duty Hike on Wine

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Tim Atkin, Master of Wine, has announced that wine friends are coming together to protest against the exorbitant and potentially devastating February duty hike on wine in the UK. To join the campaign, send a flattened wine capsule or screwcap to Rachel Reeves at HM Treasury, 1 Horse Guards Road, London SW1A 2HQ, with a message urging the government to cap the wine tax. A petition will be live next week, and if achieving 10,000+ signatures, will stand a strong chance of getting this matter debated in Parliament. In the meantime, UK citizens are encouraged to write to their local…

  • Harnessing Native Yeasts to Revive Terroir

    Harnessing Native Yeasts to Revive Terroir

    , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    You might sometimes encounter wine descriptions or labels mentioning the use of ‘native yeasts’. This refers to microorganisms naturally found on grape skins or in the vineyard environment. Yeasts play a crucial role in influencing the wine’s aroma and flavour. A new study provides insights into the otherwise widespread use of commercially available yeast strains by many winemakers. These commercial yeasts are engineered for predictable performance, enabling precise control over fermentation and ensuring consistent results year after year. This practice standardises wine production but is thought to diminish the expression of terroir, the unique interplay of soil, climate and local…

  • Viña Pomal Rioja Gran Reserva

    Viña Pomal Rioja Gran Reserva

    , , ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Majestic’s new exclusive (at least in the UK) Viña Pomal Rioja Gran Reserva is made by Bodegas Bilbaínas the longest-established bottling winery in Rioja. With a blend of 90% Tempranillo and 10% Graciano, all grapes are from Bodegas Bilbaínas’ own vineyards. This is the 2015 vintage and this wine is only produced in exceptional years. The wine matures in Bordeaux-style American oak barrels and undergoes an aging process exceeding five years. Viña Pomal Rioja Gran Reserva has earned awards, winning accolades including the Great Gold Bacchus, a 94-point rating from James Suckling, a Master Medal from The Drinks Business Rioja…

  • 25% Off Wine at Asda

    25% Off Wine at Asda

    ,

    ·

    By

    Simon Judge

    –

    Asda has 25% off wine, on £5.50 per bottle or more, 6 bottles or more, from 15 November 2024 until 15 December 2024. See the Autumn/Winter Press tasting for tips on what to buy.

Pick Lists


Majestic | The Wine Society | Tesco | Waitrose | Sainsbury’s | Morrisons | Co-op | Asda | Aldi | Lidl | £7 and Under | Over £20

TipS – Infographics


Buying | Menu Ordering | Labels | Drinking | Storing | Pairing

Did You Know?

Nearly a third (32%) of UK consumers say they have already used AI for alcoholic drinks advice. More

Among socially active wine buyers, 37% have bought a wine recommended online. More

In 2026, 72% of consumers now think wine knowledge is essential to appreciation, up 20 percentage points on 2025. More

Rías Baixas wines reached more than 107 countries in 2025 and exports represented 31 per cent of the denomination’s total sales. More

Light Strike Can Cause Wine Degradation in Just One Day. More

People actively adjust their wine choices depending on who might see them. More

In the UK, 73% of Alcohol is Bought From Retail Rather Than Hospitality. More

UK wine production reached 124,377 hectolitres that year, meaning the UK accounted for roughly 0.05 per cent of world output. More

For Crémant, grapes must be harvested by hand and the wines must undergo at least nine months’ ageing before release. More

In 2024, the UK was the second-largest export market for Champagne globally, after the United States. More

Local UK bottling of wine represents about 40% of imported wine. More

Around 1% of people, typically severe asthmatics, have a sulphite sensitivity. More

A large 80% of Australian wine arrives in the UK in bulk. More

Only about 0.02% of Australia’s landmass is dedicated to vineyards. More

In 2024, New Zealand produced only 1% of the World’s wine. More

In 2024, the US imported 37% of World production of Pinot Grigio and the UK was is in second place at 27%. More

In 2024, the UK was South Africa’s largest export market, with 40% of total exports. More

In 2024, the United Kingdom imported 22.3 million bottles of Champagne, a decline of 12.7% compared to the previous year. More

Larger Champagne producers source grapes from as many as 80 different vineyards throughout Champagne. More

Champagne houses and growers collectively produce around 300 million bottles annually. More

In 2025, the Champagne region was home to about 2,124 Champagne houses and approximately 19,000 growers. More

Provence is one of the leaders in the conversion to organic viticulture, with 61% of vineyards certified. More

8% of the South Africa’s grape production is Fairtrade-certified. More

Up to 80% of wine aroma compounds come from grape skins. More

Glycerol is the third-largest component of most dry wines after water and alcohol which is why they so often feel ‘smooth’ or ‘silky’ in the mouth. More

Humans are more than 400 times more sensitive to bitter than sweet. More

Humans can detect the earthy molecule geosmin at about 100 parts per trillion and camels are so sensitive to it they can locate damp ground from roughly 50 miles away. More

During the phylloxera crisis of the nineteenth century, 90% of Europe’s vineyards were destroyed. More

In 2025, for La Vieille Ferme, also known as “The Chicken Wine”, sales surged by 49.4% to £110.8 million. More

In 2025, in the UK, Yellow Tail held the top position with sales, marking a 9.8% increase over the previous year. More

In 2024, the UK was the second-largest wine importer in volume and value. More

In 2024, the UK was the fifth-largest wine-consuming country globally. More

In 2025, global wine consumption continued its downward trend, estimated at 214.2 million hectolitres, the lowest since 1961. More

In 2025, online alcohol sales had a 20% increase in value over five years. More

In 2025, the number of UK vineyards rose to 1,104 and wineries to 238, with land under vine expanding to 4,841 hectares, a 510% increase since 2005. More

Moët Hennessy alone commands nearly 46.66% of the Champagne market, with the top three producers together holding about 61%, and the top five controlling over 72%. More

In 2024, the Champagne market was worth roughly €3.92 billion. More

In the marketing year 2023/24, white wine accounted for roughly 55% of Spain’s output, whereas red and rosé together made up about 45%. More

In the UK, 92% of wine is consumed within 48hrs of purchase. More

The majority of wines, 95%, use commercial rather than wild yeast. More

Between 0.5 and 10 litres of water, per litre of wine, are needed for cleaning during winemaking. More

Machine harvesting can achieve up to 100 tons of fruit per day vs 1 ton for a human. More

In Germany, 2025 was the smallest wine vintage since 2010. More

The majority of vineyards, 90% in 2019, are farmed with heavy chemical interventions. Only 6% are organic. More

90% of low and coastal areas in south Europe and California will no longer be able to produce good wine by the end of the century. More

IMAGE WALL

View all the images

Tools

Typicity

Food & Wine Pairing

Recent

Tags

25% Off Wine Aldi Amarone Argentina Articles Asda Australia Award Awards25 Bizarre Blog Books Bordeaux Bulk Bottling Cabernet Sauvignon Carménère Cava Champagne Chardonnay Chile Climate Change Coop Crémant Decanter Duty English Wine EPR Fairtrade Food France Germany Glossary Greece Health Hungary Iceland Italy IWSC Jeroboams Laithwaites Legislation Liberty Wines Lidl Low Alcohol M&S Majestic Malbec Marketing Merch Merlot Morrisons Natural News New Zealand Non-Alcoholic Ocado Old Vine Organic Past Tastings Pick List Pinotage Pinot Noir Port Portugal Primitivo Prosecco Regulations Research Reviews Ribera del Duero Riesling Rioja Ripasso Rose Sainsbury's Saperavi Sauvignon Blanc Shiraz Sicily South Africa Spain Sparkling Supermarkets Sustainable Tax Terroir Tesco The Wine Society Unrepresented USA Valpolicella Virgin Wines Waitrose Wanderlust Welsh Wine What to Buy Wine Art WineGB WIne Glasses Zinfandel