The latest from the worlds of wine, the table, science and travel — gathered, illustrated and credited for the Loge.
Personality spotlight
Jancis Robinson is widely regarded as one of the most respected and authoritative wine writers and critics in the world. As the first person outside the wine trade to pass the rigorous Master of Wine examination in 1984, she revolutionised wine scholarship, creating indispensable reference works that have shaped how we understand and appreciate wine today. Her insightful commentary and dedication to rigorous research have made her a towering figure in the industry, continuously raising the bar for wine writing.
🇨🇭 Jancis Robinson has extensively covered Swiss wine, noting its unique characteristics and the passionate winemakers who produce exceptional, albeit often elusive, vintages.
Read more· Jancis Robinson - Wine International AssociationWinemakers in Southern France are experiencing unusually early grape harvests, with some beginning as early as July, a direct consequence of the recent heatwaves across Europe. This trend highlights the accelerating impact of climate change on viticulture, pushing traditional harvest dates significantly forward.
Devastating wildfires have swept across parts of Europe, with notable impact on renowned wine regions such as Bordeaux and Provence in France, and areas in Spain like Ávila and Castellón. These fires not only pose an immediate threat to vineyards but also have significant implications for wine tourism and future sales in the affected regions.
The German wine trade is facing ongoing challenges, with private household wine purchases declining by 4.4% in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year. Spending decreased even more sharply, by 5.8%. While slightly more households are buying wine, they are doing so less frequently and in smaller quantities. German wines were more affected than imported varieties.
Chipotle Mexican Grill has made its debut in Mexico, the very home of Mexican food. This expansion marks a significant step for the fast-casual chain, which expressed deep respect for the country's rich culinary heritage as it ventures south of the border.
Recent scientific studies have shed new light on the chemistry of wine. Researchers have found that tannins in red wine create the characteristic puckering sensation by affecting water flow through aquaporin channels in the tongue and salivary glands. Additionally, investigations into sulfites in wine indicate they can alter the gut microbiome, though the presence of other compounds like polyphenols in real wine samples may offer some protective effects.
Wines from Oregon and Washington have achieved new levels of recognition at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2026. These Pacific Northwest states continue to impress with their signature varietals and unexpected offerings, securing top-tier awards in this global competition.
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