2024 Riesling Dry

Dr. Loosen

For me, this is exactly the kind of Riesling that always shines in summer. It’s fresh, juicy, and effortlessly drinkable, while the Mosel’s distinctive slate minerality gives it plenty of character. The nose reveals bright orchard fruit, lively citrus notes, and a subtle touch of spice. On the palate, its vibrant acidity brings energy and precision without ever feeling sharp or overwhelming. This balance of freshness, fruit, and minerality makes it incredibly moreish.

Dr. Loosen is one of the wineries that, in my view, defines classic Mosel Riesling like few others. Since taking over the estate in the late 1980s, Ernie Loosen has played a key role in establishing the international reputation of Mosel Riesling, demonstrating how precise, expressive, and approachable these wines can be.

Whether enjoyed as an aperitif, paired with fish or light starters, or simply savoured on a sunny terrace, this is an easy-going summer wine with a true sense of place and exceptional drinkability.

2022 Les Hauts de Smith Blanc

Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte

Bordeaux Blanc is, in my opinion, a style that often flies under the radar. If you are looking for a white wine that perfectly combines freshness with depth and complexity, Les Hauts de Smith is an outstanding choice. From the very first sip, it shows remarkable vibrancy and precision, while at the same time offering a subtle creaminess and an impressive level of elegance. In the glass, it reveals fresh green, slightly herbaceous aromas, complemented by notes of white peach, grapefruit, and delicate floral nuances. Its lively acidity creates beautiful tension and energy, while the subtle oak influence and ageing on fine lees provide structure, richness, and a long, refined finish. Behind the wine stands Château Smith Haut Lafitte, one of the most prestigious estates in Pessac-Léognan. The second wine is crafted with the same dedication and attention to detail as the Grand Vin—from hand harvesting to rigorous selection. The focus is always on elegance and a true expression of origin rather than sheer power. That balance of finesse, freshness, and terroir is exactly what makes Les Hauts de Smith so fascinating to me. .

2023 Casamatta Bianco

Bibi Graetz

Sometimes a wine simply needs to bring uncomplicated enjoyment—and that's exactly what Casamatta Bianco does. Fresh, juicy, and wonderfully vibrant, it delivers plenty of character while remaining effortlessly approachable. For me, it's one of those wines where the bottle always seems to disappear faster than expected.

In the glass, it offers bright citrus aromas and crisp orchard fruit, complemented by a subtle touch of Mediterranean herbs. Its lively acidity gives the wine wonderful freshness and exceptional drinkability, making it the perfect companion for warm summer days.

Behind the wine is Bibi Graetz, one of Tuscany's most celebrated winemakers. While his flagship wines have long achieved cult status, Casamatta beautifully demonstrates that an everyday wine can have just as much personality. The name translates roughly as "Crazy House"—a reflection of the joyful, unconventional spirit that defines both the winery and this wine.

2017 Falstaff Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Chateau Cos d'Estournel

When someone asks me how elegant California Pinot Noir can be, Kutch is the first producer that comes to mind. The Falstaff Vineyard Pinot Noir has little in common with the powerful, opulent style that many associate with California. Instead, it showcases finesse, freshness, and remarkable precision—exactly the qualities expected from great cool-climate Pinot Noir. In the glass, aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and wild strawberries meet delicate spice notes and a subtle hint of forest floor. Its vibrant acidity and silky tannins give the wine an impressive sense of lightness, while still offering remarkable depth and complexity. This harmony and balance are exactly what make it so captivating to me. Jamie Kutch follows a very distinctive philosophy. His aim is not to create Pinot Noirs defined by maximum ripeness or power, but rather wines that express their origin with elegance and authenticity. The cool-climate vineyards of the Sonoma Coast, combined with a very restrained use of oak, allow the fruit, minerality, and terroir to remain at the forefront. For me, Kutch is among the most exciting Pinot Noir producers in California today.

2017 Collines de L'If

Château L'If

For me, summer isn't just about white wine and rosé. As the evenings become cooler and the barbecue is fired up, it's the perfect time for an elegant red—and that's exactly when I reach for Collines de L'If. In the glass, it reveals juicy red and dark berry fruit, subtle herbal spice, and a delicate hint of cedar. The tannins are beautifully supple, the fruit remains wonderfully fresh, and its refined structure ensures the wine never feels heavy. Served slightly chilled, it truly comes into its own on a warm summer evening.

Behind this wine is Jacques Thienpont, the visionary who created Le Pin, one of Bordeaux's most legendary wines. At Château L'If, he follows the same philosophy, placing elegance, precision, and finesse above sheer power. Collines de L'If is a perfect expression of that approach and, for me, a wonderful introduction to the distinctive style of this remarkable estate.