#WeekInPictures: Tuscany in focus, rosé in hand and a touch of Parisian theatre

From Brixton bars to Tuscan vineyards, the week moved between craftsmanship, seasonality and spectacle, with wine and spirits framed by place and personality.

Provence rosé meets the kitchen at The Langham

Vins de Provence recently treated guests to a cooking masterclass at Sauce in The Langham hotel, led by Chef Michel Roux Jr. Afterwards, guests enjoyed their creations alongside a selection of Provence rosé wines under the guidance of Ray O’Connor MW.

Mel Brown hosts Waiheke cocktail residency in Brixton

The Laundry welcomes a month-long cocktail residency with Waiheke Distilling Co, hosted by Mel Brown. The New Zealand distillery’s gins and vodkas, shaped by native botanicals and rainwater from Waiheke Island, are at the centre of the menu, bringing a distinct sense of place to south London.

Glenmorangie teases cinematic new release

Glenmorangie has released a first glimpse of its upcoming launch, due on 4 May, with a poster styled as a film release.

The campaign, designed by artist Julien Rico Jr, has prompted speculation around its central figure, while early commentary from critic Mark Kermode and whisky writer Charles MacLean has added to the sense of anticipation.

Frescobaldi reflects on Tuscany’s diversity

Marchesi Frescobaldi continues to describe its philosophy as “cultivating Toscana diversity,” during a presentation in London of its Brunello di Montalcino and Castel Giocondo.

As president Lamberto Frescobaldi explains, the intention is to share “the joy of even fleeting moments, and delight in its flavours, tastes, and sensory impressions,” offering a sense of Tuscany that goes beyond geography. For the family, wine belongs to a wider cultural tradition, shaped by memory, craft and continuity.

This approach is expressed across nine estates, each selected for its particular qualities. From the slopes of Chianti Rufina to the coastal light of the Maremma, differences in soil, elevation and climate are allowed to speak plainly. “We want our style to speak of the earth and of the diversity of our growing areas,” Frescobaldi says, describing a practice rooted in observation and respect for each site’s character.

The result is a body of wines that reflect distinct places rather than a single house style, with the family’s long history serving as both guide and responsibility.

Absinthe fountains and 19th-century chic

Earlier this week, db’s Jessica Mason attended Le Chat Noir, a Parisian-themed cabaret show hosted by The Lost Estate, which offered a ‘Green Hour’ featuring traditional absinthe fountains for guests to serve themselves, just like in the 1890s.

Joan Collins opens rosé season with M&S

Joan Collins marked the start of rosé season with Marks & Spencer Food, presenting its largest range to date.

Standing beside a tower of bottles, she encouraged the nation to “begin sipping”, as the retailer anticipates strong summer demand across an expanded selection.

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