We arrived in the picturesque commune of Barolo, Italy on a crystal-clear afternoon in late November, for tasting appointment at internationally esteemed Cantina Bartolo Mascarello. The winery is run by second-generation Maria Teresa- a devout traditionalist like her father, Bartolo- firmly rooted in the belief that the best expression of Barolo is an assemblage, mix of fresh fruit from different vineyards throughout the region.
Read MoreIn early spring, I had the pleasure of accompanying friends to Beaujolais, a wine region venerated for its guzzle-worthy Gamay Noir. Beaujolais is undeniably alluring both as a region and a wine, but it is the genial, down-to-earth nature of the people that make this region truly special. The producers have a very deep love for the land they farm and they treat it as such, employing a wholistic hand in the vineyards and the winery.
Read MoreOne of the most beautiful wine regions I've seen to date resides on a Spanish Isle off the coast of North Africa. The volcanic archipelago known as the Canary Islands, is home to the world's oldest, own-rooted provignage vineyards. The ancient vines of Tenerife flourish in extreme conditions and yield some of the most compelling, terrior driven wines of Spain. I had a chance to experience the region first hand with Roberto Santana and Alfonso Torrente, of Envínate.
Read MoreEarlier this month, I experienced Barcelona for the very first time. We arrived on a beautiful day and after dropping our bags at the hotel, we embarked on a leisurely stroll through the Gothic quarter of old town Barcelona. We meandered through the narrow, cobblestone streets for some time, eventually finding ourselves at Bar Brutal, an eclectic tapas bar specializing in vinos naturales.
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