Niek Beute is top sommelier and editor-in-chief at WINELIFE. Read his foreword to the latest issue of WINELIFE 74 here.
Already the last issue of this tumultuous year. We did everything possible to end the year popping and vibrant. And even though I am not supposed to have a preference, many know that I have a great fondness for champagne - and was therefore looking forward to this issue of WINELIFE even more.
An extra dimension
For a long time, I felt embarrassed to refer to myself as a champagne lover or enjoy it publicly. Champagne still struggles with an elitist image of extravagance. An image set up and maintained by luxury brands. But times are changing.
It is slowly becoming clear that Champagne is so much more than a drink of the jet set. Meanwhile, Champagne itself is finally gaining recognition as one of the most complex wine regions in the world, characterised by the endless diversity of styles and flavours available today. The maturing of the wine region has gained momentum due to the huge proliferation of excellent small independent producers. For the enthusiast, it is an endless journey of discovery.
[…]
Curious about the rest of Nieks preface? You can read it in the latest WINELIFE Magazine 74. Order this one here!
Don't want to miss a single edition? Subscribe then subscribe to Winelife Magazine now!
Want to stay up to date with the best articles? Follow Winelife magazine on Instagram, Facebook and sign up for our fortnightly newsletter.
English (UK) 
Nederlands 
Deutsch