It’s the week of June 1, 2026.  

Big, big things are going down this week. First, my 2023 Napa Cabernet report is now published on Decanter.com. Over 600 wines, with nearly 200 more uploading over the next month. It is a comprehensive overview of one of the best vintages for Napa in the last 100 years. 

This week, I head to NYC. I’ll be there for the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter on Saturday, and then, sticking around New York to meet and taste wines from New York State for my second regional report. 

After that, it’s off to Paris, then Bordeaux, and then back in the US to meet with Santa Barbara producers for an update on that region.

***

Above, John Legend performed at the grand reopening of the Robert Mondavi winery on May 14, 2026. What an absolutely special thing for the iconic estate. Just Legend and his piano. A man and his music. The simplicity got me thinking about the late Robert Mondavi. Just a man and his wine, and waves were made. 

And, ICYMI: I rated and reviewed the 2026 Willamette Valley Wine Auction wines from the 2024 vintage for Decanter, and am soon off to New York City for the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter, and after, will taste a boatload of New York State wines to see where things are since my last visit.

Upcoming: Big news about Cristaldi’s elevated role for American-based trade magazines Tasting Panel and Somm Journal, and what it means for C&Co. subscribers.