Last week, I wandered into Olympia for the London Wine Fair and walked out with a passport stamped in grapes—figuratively, of course. From Rioja’s red revival to Bulgarian dark horses, here’s what went down on a day soaked in taste, talent, and a touch of toffee moonshine.
First Stop: The Rioja Renaissance
Let’s start where the tannins run deep—Rioja. Despite the global red wine wobble, Rioja’s holding its nerve. In fact, it’s thriving. With 83.5% of its sales still in reds, the region is defying the dip. I was particularly struck by Marqués de Cáceres’ Maturana Tinta range—a forgotten grape making a confident comeback. These wines were rich, garnet-hued, and strutted around the glass like they owned the place. Bold acidity, firm tannins, a flirtation of Petit Verdot—yes please.
Montepulciano’s Moody Cousin: Montecucco
Just when I thought I’d met every Sangiovese going, along came Montecucco. At the “Other Face of Sangiovese” masterclass, I explored eight nuanced expressions of this Tuscan beauty. Earthy, complex, and not trying too hard to please—just how I like my wines (and conversations).
Bulgarian Surprises and a Family Tree
One of my favourite moments? Meeting Militza Zikatanova from Villa Melnik. Her passion for Bulgarian wines was infectious. From the “Melnik Family Tree” to the “Orange Voyage,” each bottle had a story, a root, and a refreshing twist. Bulgaria, you’ve been hiding these gems for too long.
Bottles, Blends, and… BDSM Branding?
A few labels screamed “pick me,” and one whispered “50 Shades of Chardonnay.” Take Vicius—a bottle dressed in matte black with a leather collar and tassel. Let’s just say, it didn’t need a tasting note to get attention. Then there was Toretto, “The Ultimate Blend,” looking like it might rev its engine and drive off. And let’s not forget Edwards Vodka’s Raspberry Spritz—canned sophistication with a fizzy punch.
Moonshine & Mischief
The O’Donnell Moonshine stand was like stepping into a speakeasy with better lighting. From sticky toffee to tough nut, these were sweet rebels in mason jars. And yes, they pack a punch. Approach with snacks.
Spirit Safari & Canned Wine Cool
A special nod to the visual feast at the spirits stand—vibrant bottles, exotic gins, and enough botanicals to start a garden centre. Oh, and Canned Wine Co. proved you don’t need a cork to impress. I sampled a crisp white that could outshine many a full-bodied bottle.
Wine Guild, Great Chats & A New Website
No fair is complete without a proper catch-up. I met Tal and Lisa from the Wine Guild of the United Kingdom, who we’re currently helping with a digital facelift (the website, not them). It’s always refreshing to mix sips with strategy.
Final Swirl
The London Wine Fair 2025 was a masterclass in global flavour, innovation, and connection. Whether it was rediscovering the old (Maturana Tinta), discovering the new (Bulgarian orange wine), or sipping something sparkly in a tin, the event was proof that the wine world continues to innovate while staying rooted in story and soil.
If wine is a journey, this was a round-the-world ticket—no jet lag, just hangovers.
