Oak has played a vital role in the changing history of fine wine. Gavin Smith spoke to Max Gigandet – Managing Director of leading Burgundy cooper François Frères – to explore the power of a good barrel and why oak isn’t going anywhere Oak barrels have been used in winemaking for thousands of years. While initially their purpose was simply ...

Exploring the power of a good barrel

Finding the balance: the art of the cooper

As Château Langoa Barton marks its 200th anniversary, Sophie Thorpe caught up with Damien Barton-Sartorius – the 10th generation of the Barton family to run the estate – about tradition, terroir and why Bordeaux remains the most exciting wine region in the world  Think of Bordeaux, and you probably don’t think of skateboarding and denim shirts. Damien Barton-Sartorius, however – Director of Château Langoa and Léoville Barton – manages ...

Talking terroir and tradition with Damien Barton-Sartorius, Director of Langoa and Léoville Barton

Keeping up with the Bartons

From traditional single malt Scotch to the weird-and-wonderful and everything in between, there’s every chance an independent bottler had a hand in bringing this liquid to your lips. Holly Motion spoke to four bottlers about the category’s rich history and the important role they play in the spirits world Dalmore, Mortlach and Macallan fetch tens of thousands of pounds at auction today – but they likely wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for an independent bottler. In times of great economic hardship, Gordon ...

Four spirits curators on their quest for the rare and remarkable

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F+R Editorial

News, views, tastings, trips: the insider notes from FINE+RARE, the world’s leading wine brokers.

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