Cabernet Sauvignon’s origins are believed to stretch back to France’s Aquitaine region in the 1600s. But it wasn’t until the late 1990s that U.C. Davis researchers determined through genetic testing that this beloved grape is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Sequencing the genome in 2007 unlocked even more valuable insights into the origin, breeding, and characteristics of one of the most beloved cultivars on the planet.
Read MoreCabernet Sauvignon has a long history in Australia dating back to the 1830s when it was introduced by Scottish immigrant and wine pioneer James Busby. Though a hardy and disease-resistant cultivar, early experimental plantings failed due to poor vineyard locations and lack of knowledge. It didn’t take long to get it right—the oldest surviving Cabernet Sauvignon vines are believed to be Penfold’s Kalimna Block 42, planted in the Barossa Valley in 1888. Today it is the second most-planted wine grape in Oz at 25,000 ha. Here are a few world-class renditions of one of Australia’s flagship varieties:
Read MoreIf Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of red wine, and Bordeaux is the king of wine, doesn’t it follow that Bordeaux is the king of Cabernet Sauvignon? Of course, I am prejudiced as I have been collecting Bordeaux since 1971. Yes, I also have some California Cabernets, but 95% of my cellar is red Bordeaux—vintages ranging from 1918 to 2019.
Read MoreOur Valentine’s Day Buying Guide is here! Whether you want to gift a special bottle, or open a memorable wine for a dinner with your loved one, we have ideas galore.
Read MoreSure, the romantic love of eros is what everyone assumes Valentine’s Day is for. But why not celebrate your own happy hearts day inspired by ancient Greek philosophies on love? Take philia, the love of a friend for example—Palentine’s Day, anyone? Friendship is a great reason to celebrate! Then there’s storge, a fond love of family, and nothing brings festive harmony to a family gathering like a bottle of wine. Or philautia, the healthy love of oneself. Treat yourself—you’re worth it. Though wine is one of the best pleasures in life, in the words of Euripides, "The greatest pleasure in life is love.” Let’s celebrate love in all its forms, and start with a round up of wines that are perfect to share with a loved one.
Read MoreVenus, the Roman goddess of love, has often been painted in pink, and pink has somehow become interwoven with our cultural associations of romance. As Valentine’s Day approaches, we’re here to celebrate the pink—in bubbly form, of course.
Read MoreWhat wine is more romantic than a delicious Sauternes? Bordeaux’s infamous dessert wine is versatile enough to accompany so many different activities and foods. They are good as an apéritif when they have fine acidity and not too much sweetness. Of course, with foie gras, they are perfect, as are they with a fruit dessert or custard or flan. Just no chocolate please—save that for after Sauternes with your Port. Here are a few suggestions that are in stock and a few superb pre-arrival offerings (you’ll be ahead of the game for next year).
Read MoreIn an understated and often unnoticed way, K&L has become a part of many lovers' lives. Upon revealing my employment at K&L to a recent acquaintance, they promptly shared, "Twenty years ago, I bought the Champagne from you that my wife and I enjoyed when we got engaged!" As Valentine's Day approaches and we think on the importance of these memories, I've curated a list of top-tier wines, not limited to Champagnes, that every wine lover will appreciate. These selections are perfect for toasting love, be it Platonic or romantic, or gifting to your favorite wine aficionado for future enjoyment.
Read MoreToday's Burgundy Newsletter shines a spotlight on several direct-import favorites and their recent releases that have just arrived in stock. The Chardonnays of 2022 are the focus with Sylvain Langoureau's superb St-Aubins, Paul Pernot's ultra-classic Puligny-Montrachets, Mâconnaise value stunners from Château Vitallis, and Chablis QPR performers from Seguinot-Bordet. The old-school 2021 red Burgundy vintage is highlighted by a quintet of astounding 1er Beaune offerings from Albert Morot for simply unbelievable pricing.
Read MoreWith a history that dates back to 1590, Domaine Seguinot-Bordet’s roots in Chablis run incredibly deep. Jean-François Bordet oversees the day-to-day operations at their 16 hectare estate. The 2022 vintage in Chablis was much like the rest of Burgundy, it was one of the hottest vintages in recent memory. Yet, with few hiccups after May it, was a relatively easy growing season that resulted in a much larger crop than 2021 or even hot vintages like 2020, 2019, and 2018.
Read MoreChâteau Vitallis is in the town of Solutré surrounded by Pouilly-Fuissé vineyards in southern Burgundy’s Mâcon region. They can trace their origins back to 1835 when the Dutron family took over the domaine. The same family is still at the helm, with Denis Dutron in the driver’s seat and his son Maxime managing the winemaking responsibilities. They have an envious selection of vineyard holdings scattered across appellations focusing mainly on Pouilly-Fuissé.
Read MoreFinding excellent 1er Cru red Burgundy that is both delicious now and can age gracefully for less than $60 a bottle is difficult to say the least—but this quintet from Albert Morot fits the bill!
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