My Modern Darcy

Dear readers, in recent blog posts, we have glimpsed a few exceptional champagnes from distinguished French houses and the pleasures of enjoying a glass on a relaxed summer day. Yet not everyone drinks alcohol, whether by preference or for health reasons, so does that mean they must forgo this same sense of stylish indulgence? Not at all. In fact, there is a delightful alternative, and that is sparkling tea. I first discovered this emerging category last year while shoppin

Dear readers, in the world of wine and champagne, many houses belong either to founding families, large multinational corporations, investors, or billionaires drawn to the romance of French winemaking. Yet every now and then, one comes across something less expected — a house that does not fit neatly into any of those categories, and that is precisely what makes it so intriguing. I discovered one such house at Vinexpo Asia this year, when I met the proprietor of Champagne N

Dear readers, in the world of gastronomy, it is always fascinating to experience the many sensations that an artistically prepared meal can offer. Guided by a chef’s vision, from carefully selected ingredients to precise technique and elegant presentation, and elevated by beautiful tableware, silverware, and atmosphere, dining becomes a form of art, one that delights both the eye and the palate. Yet what if history were added to the experience, too? What if a restaurant co

Dear readers, in our daily lives, we often hear the phrase “think outside the box”, which encourages creativity, originality, and fresh solutions. I have often wondered how that idea applies to wine and champagne appreciation. To me, it means being open to discovering houses that are less widely known, rather than simply following the most heavily promoted names; it means choosing wine and champagne for their value, quality, heritage, and craftsmanship — and for the way the

Dear readers, throughout history, artists have used different media to express their aesthetic, their distinctive style, and their point of view. Some have turned to painting, others to music, perfume creation, or wine-making. Across the centuries, these forms of expression have helped shape the artistic and creative world we know today, enriching our lives with beauty and inspiration. To master one art form is already a challenge, requiring years of practice, patience, and

Dear readers, about a month ago, an invitation arrived in my mailbox for Vinexpo Asia 2026, one of the most exciting events of the year for wine lovers. It gathers not only some of the world’s most prominent wineries, but also a number of newer names that are not always easy to find in local wine shops or restaurants. As my curiosity drew me back to the fair, it also occurred to me that I had not written about wine and champagne for quite some time. So, as a prelude to thi