
Alison Napjus
About
Alison Napjus joined Wine Spectator in 2000, and was promoted to senior editor in 2012 and tasting director in 2016. She is lead taster for the wines of Spain, France’s Champagne region, South Africa and wines from regions throughout Italy.
After graduating from Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration, Napjus moved to New York to take a position as a manager at Tribeca Grill restaurant. As tasting director, she oversees the scope and content of Wine Spectator’s annual reviews of more than 10,000 wines, working closely with the tasters and tasting coordinators in the New York and Napa offices. Currently she divides her time between New York, where she is based, with a second home in Tampa, Fla. She regularly travels abroad, both personally and professionally.

Tasting Northern Spain’s Txakoli
Spain’s Basque country yields vivid whites and rosés

8 Sunny Rioja Reds Up to 91 Points
New reviews of delicious Tempranillo-based wines from Marqués de Cáceres, Beronia and more, …

2025 Grand Award Winner: Soby’s
Southern hospitality meets a world-class cellar

9 Refreshing Spanish Wines Up to 93 Points
New reviews of red and white values, including Ribera del Duero, Albariño and Mencía

Frédéric Panaïotis, Dynamic Winemaker at Ruinart Champagne, Dies at 60
The Champagne native spent 18 years leading the winery with a dynamic, innovative style

10 Exciting White Grapes to Know
Distinctive, palate-pleasing varieties to broaden your white wine horizons

9 Tasty Txakoli Whites, Rosés and Sparklers Up to 91 Points
New reviews of refreshing Spanish wines ideal for summer sipping

Rioja Rising
Spain’s signature wine region is thriving, offering both traditional and dynamic modern …

9 Sensational Spanish Wines Priced $35 or Less
Take a vinous tour of Spain with new reviews of Rioja, Cava, Albariño and more up to 91 …