
John Downes
John Downes MW is a British wine writer, public speaker and broadcaster. Trained as a chartered engineer, he caught the wine bug and passed his Diploma with the Wine & Spirits Education trust before moving to the gruelling Master of Wine studies. He gained MW status in 1994 and has built a career in speaking and writing about wine for TV, radio and corporate events.
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Valdepeñas
Valdepeñas reds have a rather unglamorous image but, as JOHN DOWNES MW discovers, the value and improving quality of these wines make this a region for closer attention
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Lesser known grapes: Touriga Nacional
In the first series of features on the world's lesser known grape varieties, JOHN DOWNES MW introduces the Jekyll and Hyde character of Touriga Nacional, Portugal's premier grape.
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Hunter gatherers
Making wine in the Hunter Valley can be quite a challenge. JOHN DOWNES MW meets a band of winemakers who are set on quality
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Rising above Rose: Red wines
The reputation of the Côtes de Provence is entrenched in its rosés. JOHN DOWNES MW goes in search of red wines with top-quality terroir credentials
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Honeyed words: a sweet wine future
JOHN DOWNES MW talks to Bernard Germain, sweet wine evangelist and owner of the revered Loire estate Château de Fesles
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Alentejo: A place in the sun
Traditionally one of the poorest areas in Europe, the south of Portugal is now one of the richest in local colour. John Downes MW heads down to the Alentejo to investigate the region's change of fortunes
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Producers of Argentine: The Fab Four
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Ribera del Duero has Wines with Altitude
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Beaune for beginners
Understanding the Côte de Beaune can help you get to grips with the whole of Burgundy, says JOHN DOWNES MW
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Bodegas y Bebidas: Grand designs
Spanish giant Bodegas y Bebidas is creating a special brand to help consumers better understand the country's wine regions. JOHN DOWNES MW reports
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It’s all in the soils
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Burgenland: Seeing Red
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National Pride: Port
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More than Malbec
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Hallowed spaces: Argentinean wineries
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Promised Land: Argentinean Wine
Argentina is attracting more and more international investors. JOHN DOWNES MW explains why it's such a draw
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A FEAR IN PROVENCE
Côtes de Provence boasts pretty landscapes and pretty rosés. But can it push the boat out and make serious wine? JOHN DOWNES MW finds out
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