A leading rap musician has publically revealed his taste for fine Burgundy by becoming a wine critic.

Michael Diamond, better known to people around the world as Mike D from hip hop trio The Beastie Boys, has started contributing to the JamesSuckling.com wine blog.

Taking a break from recording the group's latest album, Hot Sauce Committee Part 2, the musician visited New York restaurant Momofuku Ssam Bar and tried a 2006 Jean-Marc Morey Santenay La Comme Dessus.

Reviewing the Burgundy for the website, he praised the quality of the wine, although warned against pairing it with spicy food.

"After properly cleansing the palate, this was surprisingly ready to rock — ripe fruits, earthy notes, even a little bit of refined funk. Elegant and restrained with well-balanced tension. 93 points," he noted.

Mr Diamond is not the only musician to reveal a surprising interest in fine wine.

Whitesnake guitarist David Coverdale recently told Wine Spectator that he has a passion for Burgundy, particularly those from Chassagne-Montrachet.