Attending the New York Wine Experience 2024 for the first time was an exhilarating experience. I was there on behalf of Grapes for Humanity Canada, where I serve as President of the Board of Directors, alongside fellow board member Steven Campbell, a seasoned veteran in the restaurant and wine industry with over 50 years of experience. Steven has been instrumental in driving our annual Charity Fine Wine auction, which has raised approximately $1.8 million to date. After a fantastic evening with our sister organization, Grapes for Humanity Global, we dove into the New York Wine Experience 2024, eager to explore the world of fine wines.
The Grand Tasting: A Global Gathering of Wine Enthusiasts
The New York Wine Experience 2024 is an annual event that brings together wine lovers, collectors, and industry professionals from across the globe. Held at the Marriott Marquis in the heart of Times Square, the event spans two floors, offering a staggering array of wines to sample. Hundreds of the world’s most renowned wineries showcase their finest selections, allowing attendees to taste an unparalleled variety of wines—all under one roof.
While many attendees pace themselves over the course of three days, I was there for just one evening. Armed with my wine glass, I meandered through the event, sampling wines from some of the most distinguished vineyards. Despite the time constraints, I made sure to focus on quality rather than quantity, especially after indulging in remarkable wines the night before at the Grapes for Humanity Global event. You can read more about that experience here.
A Delightful Discovery: Chateau d’Yquem 2016 Grand Cru Classé
One of the standout wines of the evening was the Château d’Yquem 2016 Grand Cru Classé. As someone who had never before sampled this iconic wine, I was completely captivated by its delicate balance of flavours. Pale lemon-gold in colour, this Sauternes offers a symphony of soft fruit flavours that dance across the palate, perfectly balanced with a subtle acidity that leaves a lasting impression.
Widely regarded as one of the finest sweet wines in the world, Château d’Yquem is produced in Sauternes, a region known for its extraordinary dessert wines. The 2016 vintage is particularly special, as it combines vibrant freshness with complex layers of honeyed apricots, pineapple, and candied ginger. The wine’s rich texture and persistent finish make it an unforgettable experience.
Wine critic Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded the Château d’Yquem 2016 a remarkable 98 points, noting its exceptional poise and longevity, with the potential to age beautifully for decades. If you ever have the opportunity to try this extraordinary wine, don’t hesitate—it’s truly one of a kind.
Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc Martinborough Te Muna 2023
Another standout from the evening was Craggy Range’s Sauvignon Blanc Martinborough Te Muna 2023. I must admit, I went back for a second sample (and could have easily had more). This wine, grown on the lower terrace at Te Muna Road, brings a unique level of texture and complexity that is rare to find in a Sauvignon Blanc. The cooler climate of Martinborough adds aromatic depth, while the rocky soils give the fruit intensity.
The wine itself is a pale straw colour, with fresh kaffir lime leaf and white floral notes on the nose. The palate bursts with flavours of passionfruit and zesty lime, complemented by a pithy character and saline acidity. It’s the perfect wine for a summer day, offering both refreshing qualities and impressive depth.
Wine critic James Suckling awarded the Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc Martinborough Te Muna 2023 an impressive 91 points, highlighting its delicate floral notes of aniseed and licorice, complemented by hints of lemon. With a medium to light body and a refined, dry finish, it stands out as a beautifully balanced wine for its vintage. If you’re seeking a fresh, vibrant Sauvignon Blanc with subtle complexity, this is a wine worth experiencing.
Reuniting with Wine Legends
(Grapes for Humanity Global Board Members0
It was a pleasure to reconnect with some of the winemakers we had previously met at the Wine Legends V dinner, who were also featured at the New York Wine Experience. Seeing familiar faces brought a sense of continuity to the event, as we had the opportunity to taste their exceptional wines once again. Their presence added another layer of excitement, as we exchanged stories and experiences in a more relaxed, informal setting, deepening our appreciation for their craft.
Meeting Wine Masters: Hamilton Russell & Fèlsina
Through Steven’s vast network and established relationships in the wine industry, I had the privilege of meeting two esteemed winemakers from different parts of the world: Anthony Hamilton Russell, proprietor of Hamilton Russell Vineyards in South Africa, and Giuseppe Poggiali, proprietor of Fèlsina in Italy. Hamilton Russell Vineyards, located in the cool, maritime Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, is renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, embodying elegance and a deep sense of place. Fèlsina, situated in the heart of Chianti Classico, has a rich history and is celebrated for its traditional Sangiovese-based wines, known for their power, elegance, and aging potential. Both winemakers are dedicated to their craft, producing wines that truly reflect the unique terroirs of their respective regions.
An Unmissable Experience for Oenophiles
From the incredible array of wines to the curated food stations, it was an event that celebrated the very best of what the wine world has to offer. As a first-time attendee, I left feeling inspired not only by the wines themselves but also by the opportunity to meet and converse with the talented and passionate people behind these prestigious labels.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine collector or a curious beginner, the New York Wine Experience is an event that should be on every wine lover’s bucket list. And while I only attended for one evening, it’s easy to see why most people choose to spread their tastings over three days—it’s impossible to fully appreciate all the event has to offer in just a few hours. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event, and who knows, maybe I’ll plan for the full three days next time!
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!