Portrait of Eric Asimov

Eric Asimov

I focus on all aspects of wine for anybody who might be interested, from the merely curious to the connoisseur. The pleasures of its aromas, flavors and textures and its place on the table are central, and I regularly evaluate and recommend bottles, producers and places to drink. But wine is best understood not just by drinking it. I’m especially interested in its cultural background and expressions, its history, economics and politics, and its most compelling and influential personalities and producers. It’s illuminating, too, to examine wine’s social, scientific and environmental dimensions and what it signifies to society at large. While wine can rise to profound and even spiritual levels, it is a simple pleasure, easy for anyone to enjoy regardless of how deeply they choose to go into it.

I have been writing about wine, food and restaurants for The Times for more than 30 years as a reporter, restaurant reviewer and, since 2004, as wine critic. I have a B.A. in history and American Studies from Wesleyan University and did graduate work in American Civilization at the University of Texas at Austin. I live in Manhattan with my family.

I am committed to upholding the standards of integrity outlined in The Times’s Ethical Journalism Handbook. As a critic, I express my opinions and points of view about wine and food issues. But my responsibilities are to readers of The Times. I do not represent the wine industry, nor do I accept gifts, money or favors from those whom I might write about. I do not go on press junkets. The Times pays my work-related expenses, including meals, travel and lodging.

Latest

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    The Pour

    The Twilight of the American Sommelier

    The job, once seen as an essential feature of any establishment serious about wine, now seems to be a luxury in the post-pandemic restaurant economy.

    By Eric Asimov

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    The Pour

    The Wine Heiresses Apparent

    It used to be rare, but around the wine world, and with a particular concentration in Chianti Classico, daughters are taking on leadership roles.

    By Eric Asimov

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    The Pour

    The Most Memorable Wines of 2023

    The best bottles are not the ones that meet certain technical standards. They tell unforgettable stories and create enduring images.

    By Eric Asimov

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