Revered wine critic Robert Parker has announced he will no longer be reviewing Californian wines, concentrating instead on Bordeaux and the Rhone.

Mr Parker will continue to review older Californian vintages for oenophiles' bible The Wine Advocate, but responsibility for tasting newer wines has been passed to Antonio Galloni.
In addition to the produce of California, Mr Galloni will also cover the wines of Italy, Champagne, the Côte d'Or and Chablis.

Robert Parker's role in the development of the Californian wine industry should not be underestimated, with critics agreeing that he developed the market for brands such as Screaming Eagle, Bryant Family and Harlan Estate.

Despite his heavy reviewing workload, Mr Galloni hopes to increase the number of California bottles rated in the publication.

"I know a lot of readers have complained about a lack of in the bottle scores for a number of producers and wines. That will change. I can't wait to get out to California," he said on eRobertParker.com, following the announcement.