Author: florin Miu

Another year and another harvest have come to an end at Fattoria di Montemaggio. As usual, it has been a busy period starting with the Chardonnay in early September and then step-by-step picking the different grapes to end with the Sangiovese and the Pugnitello. How was this year’s harvest in the Chianti Classico region? Will it be a good vintage? Let us find out what has been said about this year’s harvest overall in Tuscany and, more specifically, at Fattoria di Montemaggio. A ‘stellar’ year according to the Consortium of Chianti Classico In the 2019 harvest report, the Consortium of… read more

Aging of Wine Historically oak barrels were used for the transportation of wine. Aging of wine in barrique, tonneaux, or big cask is a later phenomenon. Today, there is an art in using oak barrels for the aging of wine. Different styles of wine require different types and or/the combination of different oak barrels, large or small. But is the use of barrique and other types of barrels dependent upon wine styles and trends or rather on the financial capacity of wineries? Can it even be assumed that the power of decision lies in the hands of the accountants running… read more

Climate change is on everyone’s lips right now. Every day we can read or hear in the news how the climate conditions globally are changing and degenerating rapidly. All over the world, we need to work together and focus the resources on finding viable solutions. The work of the G20 group will indeed be very important for future measures regarding climate change. All the leading nations need to start doing their part. In this article, we will first take a step back in history to then continue to look closer at the effects of climate change on viticulture. A Step… read more

Italy's famous region of Tuscany is known for many things; its beautiful panoramic landscapes, rich history, culture, but above all its wine. The central area of Tuscany is referred to as “Chianti” or Chianti Classico wine country. If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, be sure to make time for a wine tour along with complementary food pairings of regional dishes as well. Tuscany’s foods and wines serve up a gastronomic affair leaving all your senses tingling. This is one authentic experience that you simply won’t want to miss. The Chianti area produces both Chianti and Chianti Classico wines. These… read more

The legalization of marijuana for medical and/or recreational purposes is a hot topic in many countries for several years now. Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is even starting to become a gourmet product that you, just as wine, can pair with food to heighten the experience. Indeed, the American Jamie Evans is probably the first Herb Somm offering courses and tasting events to promote the use of cannabis to enhance aromas and flavours. In Colorado and Las Vegas, Cultivating Spirits is a company offering cannabis dinners and tastings as well as cannabis tours. We'll take a closer look at the… read more