This blog began as a record of taking the WSET Diploma, during which I studied and explored wines and spirits made all around the world. Having passed the Diploma and become a WSET Certified Educator, the blog has become much more: a continual outlet for my passion for the culture of wine, spirits, and beer.
I aim to educate in an informal, enlightening, and engaging manner. As well as maintaining this blog to track my latest enthusiasms, I provide educational tastings for restaurants and for private groups. Details can be found on the website, and collaborations are welcome.
Wine is my primary interest and area of expertise and this blog aims to immerse the reader in the history of wine, to understand why wine tastes like it does, and to explore all the latest news. At the same time, beer and spirits will never be ignored.
For the drinker, whether casual or professional, today is a good time to be alive.
McLaren Vale lies south of Adelaide, a region revitalised since the 1990s. An old, historic area, there are numerous soil types, varied climatic influences, old vines, and new plantings of Italian varieties: visiting McLaren Vale is an insight into its past and its future.
Adelaide Hills has emerged in the last thirty years as a cool-climate region producing outstanding Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. It’s just outside Adelaide, but is completely different from nearby warmer regions such as Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. It’s also, despite its proximity to Adelaide, quite a remote, rural region: a trip to Australia’s agricultural heartland.
Tasmania is a now fashionable island off the south coast of Australia, becoming increasingly known for its high-quality sparkling wine—but there’s also Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and some amazing whisky. The perfect place to visit!
Australia is most strongly associated with Shiraz, but there’s plenty of Cabernet Sauvignon too. I attended a tasting of Aussie Cab from four different regions—Margaret River, Coonawarra, McLaren Vale, and Eden Valley—which highlighted the quality Cabernet being made across the country as well as the diversity of climate, soil types, and wines.
A region unsuited to grape growing, yet which produces astonishing white wine from Semillon.
Victoria is challenging perceptions of Australian wine by producing high-quality Pinot Noir.
Some of Australia's finest wine is produced from some of the world's oldest vines.
