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November 17, 2025 – White Spirits and Wine Are Surging in Thailand
Wine capsules may be increasingly out of favor with some drinkers, but a new neuromarketing study covered in The Drinks Business shows that nine out of ten consumers still perceive capsule-topped bottles as higher quality. Meanwhile, Nikkei Asia, The Drinks Business, and VinePair highlight a global shift, from Japan’s rising domestic-grape prestige to Thailand’s growing wine market and Champagne’s addition of Pink Chardonnay, that underscores how fast consumer preferences and regional identities are evolving....
SUSHISAMBA – London (Heron Tower & Covent Garden)
A two-site London fixture blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cooking with big-city drama: glass-lift views and Europe’s highest outdoor dining terraces at Heron Tower, and a striking Opera Terrace aerie over Covent Garden Piazza—plus Kobe beef, robata signatures, and late-night SAMBA ROOM cocktails...
Château Fortia – Historic Châteauneuf-du-Pape Estate with a Modern Sustainable Vision
Château Fortia, one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most historic estates, has been instrumental in shaping both the region’s identity and the French AOC system. Today, under the stewardship of winemaker Sandra Rochel and general manager Anna Olejnik, the estate continues to craft terroir-driven wines while embracing sustainable viticulture and offering visitors an authentic Rhône Valley experience....
November 10, 2025 – Did Japan’s Sake Laws Create a U.S. Brewing Boom?
Japan’s century-old brewing laws have frozen innovation at home and unexpectedly ignited a U.S. sake renaissance, with nearly 30 American breweries now crafting experimental rice ferments that Japan’s own rules forbid. Meanwhile, Andrew Jefford’s twin essays in Decanter urge calm amid health alarmism and climate-driven alcohol creep, reminding readers that pleasure, proportion, and balance—not panic—remain the truest measures of wine’s worth....
This Week Uncorked
November 17, 2025 – White Spirits and Wine Are Surging in Thailand
Wine capsules may be increasingly out of favor with some drinkers, but a new neuromarketing study covered in The Drinks Business shows that nine out of ten consumers still perceive capsule-topped bottles as higher quality. Meanwhile, Nikkei Asia, The Drinks Business, and VinePair highlight a global shift, from Japan’s rising domestic-grape prestige to Thailand’s growing wine market and Champagne’s addition of Pink Chardonnay, that underscores how fast consumer preferences and regional identities are evolving....
November 10, 2025 – Did Japan’s Sake Laws Create a U.S. Brewing Boom?
Japan’s century-old brewing laws have frozen innovation at home and unexpectedly ignited a U.S. sake renaissance, with nearly 30 American breweries now crafting experimental rice ferments that Japan’s own rules forbid. Meanwhile, Andrew Jefford’s twin essays in Decanter urge calm amid health alarmism and climate-driven alcohol creep, reminding readers that pleasure, proportion, and balance—not panic—remain the truest measures of wine’s worth....
November 2, 2025 – Meet the Winemaker Making $25 Wines Taste Like $50 Bottles
Kermit Lynch reflects on a lifetime spent championing soulful, terroir-driven wines in Wine Spectator’s two-part feature, railing against enological conformity while celebrating harmony, individuality, and the enduring joy of the table. Meanwhile, the San Francisco Chronicle spotlights Kenny Likitprakong’s under-$25 California gems, Wine Business follows Charles Smith’s “REAL Wine” transparency crusade, and Phys.org reports that bacteria might soon help erase wildfire smoke from tainted wines....
Corkage
Wine
Wineries
Château Fortia – Historic Châteauneuf-du-Pape Estate with a Modern Sustainable Vision
Château Fortia, one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most historic estates, has been instrumental in shaping both the region’s identity and the French AOC system. Today, under the stewardship of winemaker Sandra Rochel and general manager Anna Olejnik, the estate continues to craft terroir-driven wines while embracing sustainable viticulture and offering visitors an authentic Rhône Valley experience....
Le Domaine de la Roche – Beaujolais, France
Nestled in the heart of the Lantignié appellation, Le Domaine de la Roche is a vibrant, organic-driven estate where the passion of two friends crafts wines that truly show the soul of Beaujolais. A heartfelt favorite during our tour—this charming cellar delivers authenticity, scenic beauty, and unforgettable tastings.
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Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe – Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône Valley
Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe stands as one of the most iconic estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, rooted in the stony plateau of La Crau since 1898. Family-run for over a century, the Brunier dynasty continues to craft some of the Rhône Valley’s most age-worthy, terroir-driven wines....
Restaurants
SUSHISAMBA – London (Heron Tower & Covent Garden)
A two-site London fixture blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cooking with big-city drama: glass-lift views and Europe’s highest outdoor dining terraces at Heron Tower, and a striking Opera Terrace aerie over Covent Garden Piazza—plus Kobe beef, robata signatures, and late-night SAMBA ROOM cocktails...
Le Comptoir de la Mère Germaine – Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Le Comptoir de la Mère Germaine blends bistronomic flair with South American accents in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Located on the village square and firmly rooted in local wine culture, it’s a compelling stop for Rhône Valley travelers seeking both tradition and innovation.
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Guides
The Ultimate Guide to Valle de Guadalupe Restaurants, Wineries, and Wines for the Perfect Long Weekend Escape
Discover the beauty and flavors of Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico's premier wine country. From boutique wineries to exquisite dining, luxurious stays, and stunning scenery, this guide explores the best that the region has to offer. This guide is being constantly updated. Originally Posted On February 21, 2024...
