GOOD TASTE VERSUS PERSONAL TASTE
On reputation, scores and the company around the table - and why the wine we admire is not always the wine we want to drink.
OCTOBER 2026JOURNAL Sam’s essays on wine, farming, design, and culture
A SOUTH AFRICAN IN WALES
An afternoon with Jean du Plessis at Ancre Hill, talking biodynamic farming, Welsh Pinot Noir and the freedom to experiment.
MAY 2026
COMMON SENSE
On biodynamics, and why the most misunderstood farming philosophy in wine is also the most logical.
FEBRUARY 2026
A SENSE OF PLACE
On the soils, climates and farming decisions that give a wine its own identity.
FEBRUARY 2026
THE INVISIBLE INGREDIENT
On wild fermentation, vineyard microflora and the decisions that shape a wine’s character.
JANUARY 2026
THE OLDEST FARMING IN THE WORLD
From a bottle of Le Soula to a conversation in Alsace. On the farming traditions and convictions behind biodynamics.
DECEMBER 2025
THE BEST WINE IN THE WORLD
On the place of biodynamic farming at some of the world’s most respected wine estates.
OCTOBER 2025
WHAT THE CRYSTAL REVEALS
On sensitive crystallisation and how some biodynamic growers use patterns to consider the wines they make.
JULY 2025
THE SECRET GARDEN OF FAUGÈRES
On a visit to Catherine and Alix Roque, old vines in the Languedoc, and the care that keeps a place alive.
APRIL 2025