Wine-growing regions

The Champagne fame is such that eyes light up at the mere mention of its name. Whether enjoyed by a discoverer or a connoisseur, this French appellation embodies classicism, pleasure and happiness every time. It brings excitement to moments big and small and can be served both as an aperitif or paired to a fine meal.

Tucked between the Apennines and the Adriatic in Italy’s northeast, there’s still a lot to learn in the way of wines from this region, although we already know quite a bit about local gastronomy.

In a blind taste test, would you be able to tell a Barbera from Asti from a Barbera from Alba? If you think you could, what’s your secret? Because I’ve never been able to figure it out myself!

With cities, towns and vineyards clinging picturesquely to steep hillsides, Portugal boasts wines that reflect a unique environment – varied, seductive and original.

Spanish wine is where it’s at and the proof is in the pudding - they’ve got the most vineyard surface area on the planet. We talked with José Peñín, author of Spain’s foremost wine guide, which covers a country with far-reaching traditions and awe-inspiring creativity.

The land of Cabernet and Merlot, the Bordeaux region also makes excellent white wines that are too often overshadowed by its reds.

To show off Italy’s dizzying wine diversity, what’s more perfect than a little tour of three of the country’s winemaking regions? Here’s to a quick sip of Italy, from Alpine peaks to sloping coastal regions.

To understand the spirit of Spanish wine growers and their greatest wines, you have to keep two things in mind: the weather and the oak. Barrel aging has been a key part of the Spanish style for two centuries, with a balance that has changed a lot in the last thirty years.

A few years ago, in order to showcase the quality and potential of its wines, the Chianti Classico region created a new appellation: Gran Selezione.

Rhône is one region with two very distinct cepages. Here’s a quick look at what makes its wine so unique.

Alsatian wine is known for its complex yet favourable geology. Here’s a guide to deciphering and savouring the region.

Santorini is overwhelmingly beautiful. Perched on a volcano that looks as though it could crumble into the Aegean Sea at any given moment, the Cyclades Island is often a destination for newlyweds looking for breathtaking photos. Cyclades also beckons for wine lovers who have a serious crush on Assyrtiko grapes!