WINE > Burguet, Gevrey-Chambertin “Symphonie”, 2019 (18/20)

There are Gevrey-Chambertin producers who chase power for its own sake, and there are those who chase precision instead. Jean-Luc & Eric Burguet belong unmistakably to the second camp. The "Symphonie" is the domaine's village-level flagship, a blend drawn from several small parcels — including En Billard and La Justice — planted on clay-limestone soils…

ByCrispinSeptember 15, 20260Comments

STAY > FRANCE WHERE TO STAY >

STAY > Maison Heler, Metz France (17/20)

Nestled in the vibrant Amphithéâtre district of Metz, Maison Heler Metz, a Stark hotel and part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, redefines contemporary hospitality with its visionary blend of art, storytelling, and architecture. Designed by the iconic Philippe Starck, this hotel is not merely a place to stay but an immersive, surreal experience that…

ByEd ItorAugust 10, 20250Comments

EAT > BURGUNDY

EAT > L’Épi d’Or, Paris (17/20)

L'Épi d'Or: A Parisian Bistro Reborn Nestled in the heart of Paris's 1st arrondissement, L'Épi d'Or stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional French bistro cuisine. This historic establishment, dating back to 1880, has recently undergone a revival under the expert guidance of Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Piège, (his fifth restaurant with partner…

ByEd ItorOctober 20, 20240Comments

EAT > BURGUNDY

EAT > Aux Terrasses, Tournus (19/20)

I found Aux Terrasses in Tournus entirely by accident. A string of Google searches, reviews in various online papers (the ones with reasonable travel sections), Tablet Guide, Michelin Guide and it made it to the top of the list. Offering a smart hotel (read the review here), a charming Michelin-starred restaurant (that offers an exceptional…

ByEd ItorOctober 20, 20240Comments

DRINK > WINE DRINK > WINE > Pinot Noir

WINE > Robert Groffier Bourgogne Pinot Noir (90/100 points)

Robert Groffier Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2020 is a delightful entry-level Burgundy that showcases the expertise of this renowned Chambolle-Musigny producer. This wine offers an excellent introduction to the Groffier style and the characteristics of Burgundian Pinot Noir. While this is an entry level wine (~$100 - $150 per bottle) the Grand Cru from…

ByEd ItorSeptember 8, 20240Comments

SKI > FRANCE WHERE TO SKI >

SKI > Alpe d’Huez

MENU Getting There > Where To Stay > Where To Eat > Where To Drink > Where To Ski > Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Alpe d'Huez is a ski resort that offers an unparalleled experience for winter sports enthusiasts. Known for its extensive ski terrain, vibrant après-ski scene, and stunning…

ByEd ItorMay 20, 20240Comments

DRINK > WINE DRINK > WINE > Chardonnay

WINE > Ruinart Blanc de Blanc Champagne NV

My favourite bubbles by a very long way are Ruinart. I like some of the others but there is something quite especially delicious about the Ruinart Blanc de Blanc, so I thought perfect opportunity to learn a little more about the wine.

ByEd ItorDecember 18, 20230Comments

EAT > PARIS WHERE TO EAT >

EAT > La Cantine du Troquet, Paris (15/20)

"That is the best food I have eaten in twelve weeks of being in France". I was looking for somewhere convenient in Paris to meet my friend Ken who was travelling on a lads trip for the Rugby World Cup, England had just been knocked out of the final by South Africa…

ByEd ItorNovember 10, 20230Comments

DESIGN

TRAVEL > A stylish designer hotel in the middle of a beautiful European winery – yes please.

The Loisium group have taken the concept of wine travel to new levels with incredible modern architecture in their designer hotels (built in the winery), outstanding cuisine, stunning furnishings and design in some of the worlds most beautiful wine regions. As you can imagine that has ticked a whole lot of our boxes (already in…

ByEd ItorMay 15, 20230Comments