Wine Knowledge

Rather than scores, stars. 35 establishments chosen by a French rating magazine.

When it comes to wine rating magazines, the first names that come to mind are likely "Wine Advocate" and "Wine Spectator." Both originated in the US and use a point-based system to rate individual ...

Two Stars: Domaine Goisot Promoted in RVF's Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France 2026

La Revue du vin de France (RVF) is one of the most authoritative voices in French wine. In its Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France 2026, Domaine Goisot has been awarded two stars.

Domaine Combel-La-Serre promoted to two stars (★★) in France's leading guide, RVF 2027

One of France's most authoritative wine guides, La Revue du vin de France (RVF), has published its latest edition, the Guide des meilleurs vins de France 2027. In this revision, just 34 estates in ...

Drink the Person, Not the Label - How to Taste the Grower in the Glass

What are we actually choosing? You are standing in front of the shelves in a wine shop. Or you have just opened the list in a restaurant. What is it, in that moment, that guides your choice? Region...

From "Wakon Yosai" to "Yokon Wasai" - The Discerning Eye Behind Cepages

There was a time when Japan looked west to learn In the Meiji era, Japan lived by a phrase: wakon yosai - Japanese spirit, Western learning. Keep the heart of Japan, and take up the techniques of t...

The Evolution of Natural Winemaking — Sancerre Today, Through the Philosophy of Domaine Denizot

Domaine Denizot is based in Verdigny, one of Sancerre's finest villages. When Jennifer Denizot — proprietor and winemaker — visited Japan recently, we were fortunate enough to sit down with her. Wh...

The Complete Guide to the Burgundy Hierarchy — Understanding Grand Cru and Premier Cru

Introduction: Burgundy gets far more interesting once you understand the classification "They are both Burgundian Pinot Noir — so why is this bottle 3,000 yen and that one 30,000?" Anyone who has...

Wine That Speaks of Its Land — Burgundy and Bordeaux Terroir Seen Through Yokon Wasai

Where Yokon Wasai meets terroir Japan has a phrase, wakon yosai — Japanese spirit, Western learning. Born in the Meiji era, it describes holding fast to the native soul while taking in the techni...

Pagodes de Cos vs G d'Estournel: What Is the Difference?

Pagodes de Cos and G d'Estournel, both from the illustrious Château Cos d'Estournel.Same estate, two very different pleasures.Here is a clear guide to what sets them apart.

Why Wine Is Such a Natural Partner for Kanburi, January's Great Winter Delicacy

Kanburi, January's prized winter yellowtail, is a surprisingly fine partner for wine as well as sake. Its rich, fatty flesh calls for a white with bright acidity or a light, fruit-forward red. Here...