By David Porter on 25/11/2017
2014 was undoubtedly a challenging vintage across Italy - and Bolgheri was no different with uncharacteristic rain, cool temperatures and a constant lack of sun adversely affecting the harvest like rarely before. This was a vintage that required understanding, hard work and unstinting commitment. Only in the right hands at the right estates was glory possible.
By Ed H-B on 02/11/2017
'Manni Nössing is one of Italy’s most talented winemakers. In fact, all his wines are so good that it’s virtually impossible to pick the best of the lot, or even a favourite.' Ian d'Agata, www.
By Edward Richardson on 20/10/2017
[caption id="attachment_28311" align="aligncenter" width="508"] Cantine Dei with the town of Montepulciano perched on the hill beyond[/caption] Hot on the heels of last year's success with their 2013 vintage, Cantine Dei has just been awarded the top Italian Wine Award 'Tre Bicchiere' for its stellar Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2014, the estate is quite rightly in the spotlight once again - what an amazing achievement! The Estate - in the heart of Montepulciano is located right in the middle of Tuscany's beautiful Montepulciano region just on the eastern slopes of this 'picture-perfect' hilltop town.
By David Porter on 16/09/2017
Yesterday we held our 'Annual Tasting' - the biggest showcase event for our wines each year. As we closed the doors of the beautiful Trinity House at just after 8.30 last night the whole team were 'abuzz' after a fabulous, exhilarating day of tasting, chatting to the 20 winemakers who came to present their wines and catching up with so many customers and journalists too.
By Will Edwards on 07/06/2017
Italy has always been close to the heart of Lea & Sandeman and we are very fortunate enough to represent some superb estates across the length and breadth of this beautiful country.
By Lucy Marcuson on 01/06/2017
Last week we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Albert Jané Ubeda from Acústic & Autòcton Cellers for two days of trade visits and a private client dinner at the wonderful Canham in East Sheen - see pictures below.
By David Porter on 11/05/2017
'En Rama' style sherry is something we have championed since it first hit the market 8 years ago when Gonzales Byass released their fabulous, limited release Tio Pepe - straight from the barrel. 'En Rama' is the purest, least 'mucked-about-with' wine you can get your hands on, a rare chance to taste wines straight from the barrel just as the cellar master finds it.
By David Porter on 06/05/2017
Famed oenologist Carlo Ferrini who consults for some of the greatest estates in Tuscany has finally put his expertise - and his heart and soul - into his own winery in Montalcino. The results, as you would hope, are sensational. Not sensational in a big 'in your face way' - these are beautifully crafted, fine wines with a deft touch.
By Beth Thomas on 28/04/2017
The May issue of Decanter landed on our doorstep this morning, and we were delighted to see some really high praise for lots of wines in the L&S portfolio. Christelle Guibert, Tastings Director, Decanter Magazine The ‘Weekday Wines’ section is put together each month by Tastings Director Christelle Guibert.
By Beth Thomas on 15/03/2017
We were delighted in February to welcome no fewer than seventeen of our Italian wine producers to our Italian Tasting at Getty Images Gallery. It was here that we introduced Victoria Moore to Piero Lanza of Poggerino. Lanza is one of Chianti's greatest young ambassadors.
By Ed H-B on 16/02/2017
'A rockstar 2012 vintage for Brunello' 2012, looks to be a fantastic vintage for Brunello di Montalcino. Like 2010, it has been awarded a 5-star rating by the Consorzio Brunello. Walter Speller of JancisRobinson.com was convinced by the number of wines he awarded 17 to 17.5 in his initial tastings (again, Fuligni is rated 17.
By David Porter on 25/11/2016
For many, Californian Wine means one thing – the big, rich, bold style – fruit-laden whoppers embodied most often by the wines from the Napa valley – but after 10 days hard study and exploration along the dramatic coastline of this beautiful state, we have learnt lots and there is great variety for those looking for more.