Fine Wine February: Discovering Hidden Gems in Burgundy

If you're a wine lover, February is your month! Dive into exciting new vintages and rare finds that will elevate your collection.

A Month of Discovery in Fine Wine February

As we step into Fine Wine February, it’s a breath of fresh air for wine enthusiasts. After the whirlwind of new-vintage reviews last month, we’re now ready to savor the highlights from the regions that make our hearts race—especially Burgundy. The chance to explore these exquisite wines is something I always look forward to each year. Each bottle tells a story, and February feels like the perfect time to dive into those narratives.

In early February, we’ve already seen a wealth of articles published, showcasing iconic wines and emerging trends. For instance, my friend James Button has unearthed an insightful vertical tasting of Masseto—a Tuscan megastar that continues to dominate conversations around fine wine. If you haven’t tasted their latest 2022 vintage yet, you might just be missing out on something monumental!

Exploring New Territories

This month isn’t just about Italy; it’s also a splendid opportunity to discover gems from Napa Valley. Jonathan Cristaldi’s report on Schrader Cellars reveals intriguing changes at this estate, particularly their fresh approach to sourcing grapes from the prestigious To Kalon vineyard. I can’t help but get excited when I think about how this could shape future vintages! You see, every decision made by winemakers can influence the final product—it’s like watching a masterpiece unfold before your eyes.

Across the pond in Bordeaux, Michael Apstein’s review of Château Talbot is another highlight worth noting. His exploration of both old and new vintages paints a picture of continuity amidst change—a balance that speaks volumes in today’s ever-evolving market.

Champagne’s Forgotten Style

Have you heard about Coteaux Champenois? Champagne aficionado Tom Hewson recently spotlighted this curious style—a still wine from the Champagne region that often gets overshadowed by its sparkling counterparts. This resurrected incarnation invites us to reflect on the region’s rich history. It piqued my interest because it’s not every day you come across still wines from a region famous for its bubbles!

While exploring flavors, Cassandra Charlick has ventured into Margaret River, assessing some delightful Bordeaux-style Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc blends. These fresh takes on classics remind me why exploring different regions can lead to fascinating discoveries.

Spain Shines Brightly

The excitement doesn’t stop there! As part of our ongoing feature on Spanish Icons led by Ines Salpico, we kicked off with highlights like CVNE’s Imperial Gran Reserva and Vega Sicilia’s Unico—two wines that represent the pinnacle of quality and craftsmanship in Spanish viticulture.

I love how these articles are being rolled out—they’re like little treasures unveiling themselves one by one! What makes this even more thrilling is knowing there are more standout names coming up shortly.

Anticipating What’s Next

Looking ahead, we have much more in store for February! Our France Editor Natalie Earl will assess new releases from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti—arguably one of Burgundy’s most revered estates—and let me tell you; these assessments never fail to excite me! Meanwhile, Matt Walls will take us on an adventure through the lesser-known volcanic heartlands of Loire Valley wines.

James Button continues to keep Italian wine lovers engaged with new Sassicaia tastings and an exclusive 30-year vertical tasting of the Frescobaldi family’s Luce label. I can almost hear glasses clinking in celebration!

The New World Awaits

And if you’re curious about what’s happening outside Europe, South Africa is stepping up with some thrilling varieties worth sampling! We’re also excited about Penfolds’ latest collaboration with Paul Jaboulet Aîné—a dynamic pairing that promises unforgettable experiences for any oenophile.

As if that weren’t enough, I’m particularly thrilled about my own upcoming piece featuring Assyrtiko from Paris Sigalas on Santorini—it’s incredible what magic lies within these vibrant grapes!

Closing Thoughts: An Invitation

So here we are at Fine Wine February—an invitation for all wine lovers to dive deeper into exceptional vintages and uncover hidden gems along the way. With so much on offer this month alone—from old-world elegance in Burgundy to bold innovations emerging globally—the only question left is: what will you explore first?

FAQ

What is Fine Wine February?
Fine Wine February is an initiative celebrating exceptional wines released during this month. It includes tastings, reviews, and special features on standout producers.

Why should I pay attention to Burgundy wines?
Burgundy offers some of the most esteemed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the world—known for their complexity and terroir-driven characteristics.

How can I find top-rated wines?
Look out for expert reviews from reliable sources or attend tastings where you can sample selections before buying.

Photo by Jesse Belleque on Unsplash