Looking back on my youth, a vivid memory stands out: a road trip to Spain with my parents nearly thirty years ago, following a tough breakup.
At the time, my family wasn’t really into wine.
However, as we roamed the vibrant streets of Barcelona and visited charming coastal spots like Figueres, Cadaqués, and Tossa del Mar, I seized the opportunity to introduce them to the wonderful world of regional wines—especially from Penedès. We often paired these delightful sips with steaming bowls of Catalan fish stew, bursting with fresh herbs.
This bonding experience deepened our connection and ignited a lasting love for the diverse Spanish reds and whites, each telling its own unique story.
A Glimpse into Decanter Magazine – February 2025
Engaging with a guest essay by Professor Dariusz Galasinski sparked a realization: my tasting notes rarely explore the personal side of wine appreciation, despite how central personal experiences are for many wine lovers.
His reflections remind us of the profound link between wine and our individual journeys.
- Iconic Spanish Wines: Our Regional Editor, Ines Salpico, showcases ten of Spain’s finest wines, including insights on their latest vintages.
- Exploring Bierzo: Beth Willard sheds light on why this up-and-coming region in northwest Spain deserves your attention.
- Pepe Raventos in Focus: Ines Salpico introduces us to a passionate producer devoted to uplifting his cherished terroir.
- Italian Grapes Down Under: Tom Kline explores how Italian varietals are making waves in Australia’s wine scene.
- 2023 Rhône Vintage Insights: Matt Walls provides an overview of a challenging new vintage, offering recommendations for 45 standout wines.
- Wine Myths Unveiled: Oenologist Katerina Mylona tackles four prevalent wine misconceptions that may surprise you.
- A Deep Dive into Orchids: Florent Lançon from Domaine de la Solitude shares his unique perspectives with Matt Walls.
Culinary Escapades
- Journey along the Camino de Santiago: Noah Chichester offers a walking guide through northern Spain, spotlighting the best places to eat and drink along the path.
- Literary Gems: Sophie Thorpe reviews a charming new book by Dan Keeling of Noble Rot, noted for its wit and happiness.
A Sponsored Supplement: Discover Salta, Argentina’s stunning high-altitude wine area, where unique climates and micro-terroirs are drawing in artisan winemakers.
Uncover the distinctive qualities of Salta’s wines that set them apart.
Educational Insights
- Navigating Wine: Expert tips for understanding the wine world, focusing on ethical consumption and sustainable packaging.
- Editors’ Favorites: Decanter staff share their top wine picks from recent tastings.
- Panel Tasting: Montsant: A review of 86 wines revealed high quality and distinct character, with several achieving Outstanding ratings.
- Panel Tasting: Affordable Spanish Tempranillo: From 110 sampled wines under £15, 32 were Highly Recommended, particularly from Rioja.
- Expert Spotlight on Airén: Amaya Cervera, a Spanish wine aficionado, presents 18 exceptional wines that highlight this often-neglected grape’s potential.
- Decanter Guarantee Explained: A rundown of our judging and rating process.
- Weekday Picks: The Decanter tasting team curates 25 fantastic, ready-to-drink wines priced under £30.
- Weekend Selections: Seven remarkable wines priced between £30 and £60, perfect for impressing your guests.
- DWWA 2024 Highlights: Celebrate 15 medal-winning red wines that showcase South Australia’s bold take on Rhône styles.
Stay informed on auction updates, new releases, and a thorough examination of Bordeaux, particularly as it navigates today’s market challenges a decade post-2015 vintage.
Regular Features
- Meet This Month’s Contributors: A look at the talented authors featured in this edition of Decanter.
- Uncorked: A section filled with news, inspiration, and surprises.
- Andrew Jefford’s Column: A revisit to Umbria, discovering the modern allure of the Sagrantino grape.
- Hugh Johnson’s Thoughts: A contemplative piece on the delicate timing of when to share your finest wines with friends.
- Guest Insights: Professor Dariusz Galasinski offers valuable thoughts on connecting with wine enthusiasts through writing.
- The Last Drop: Enjoy trivia about celebrity bottles, the connection between crisps and wine, and test your wine knowledge.
Dive into this edition of Decanter and let each article stir your memories and inspire your palate!
Source: Decanter
