Wine with Meg + Mel

Send us a textMeg and Mel tackle changing dynamics in the Australian wine industry, from restaurant closures to big investments and new marketing directions.• Meg shares insights from VinExpo Asia where Australian wine received positive feedback and shows a shift toward lighter-bodied reds and more whites• Oak Ridge restaurant closure highlights broader hospitality industry struggles with profit margins shrinking from 10% to 6-8%• De Bortoli's vine pulling in warmer regions reflects necessary industry restructuring with significant costs and time investment• $100 million investment from Vinarki into South Australian winemaking shows confidence despite centralization concerns• Treasury Wine's $15 million investment in low/no-alcohol technology raises questions about authenticity when flavors are added• Wine Australia's new "We've Got a Wine for That" campaign receives mixed reviews from industry insiders but positive feedback from everyday consumers• Industry challenges stem from changing demographics with younger generations drinking less wine than previous generations at the same life stageFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textMel tests her theory that Margaret River Chardonnay producers are abandoning their signature big, buttery style for leaner expressions through a tasting of four wines across different price points.• Meg Brotman argues that Margaret River has traditionally delivered reliable, high-quality big Chardonnays with texture and weight• Meg describes Margaret River Chardonnay as having a fuller style with riper fruit, moderate acidity, and more evident oak compared to cooler regions• The $18 Aldi Blackstone Limited Release proves to be an excellent baseline, showing classic regional character with grapefruit, oatmeal notes, and creamy texture• Leeuwin Estate Prelude Vineyards Chardonnay ($40.90) delivers a seamless, beautiful expression that supports Margaret River's traditional style• Xanadu Chardonnay shows structural issues, with richness around the edges but lacking mid-palate depth• Forrester Chardonnay impresses both hosts, further disproving the theory that Margaret River is abandoning its signature style• The panel concludes that while some producers may be experimenting with leaner styles, Margaret River's distinct Chardonnay identity remains intactJoin us next week as we explore the Italian variety Barbera and whether it lives up to its trendy reputation.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textDan Murphy's inaugural Best in Glass Wine Awards evaluates wines based on drinkability and value rather than traditional wine show metrics, so we thought we'd see what we thought of their top picks. • Dan Murphy's tasted over 1,400 wines for their first Best in Glass Awards• Categories include Best Value, Best International, and overall Best winners• Tim Adams Clare Valley Pinot Gris 2024 ($20.29) is the standout winner, drinking like a $35 wine• Chapel Hill The Parson Pinot Grigio offers excellent value at $16.99• International winner Versato Alto Adige Pinot Grigio ($30) didn't quite justify its price premium for us• Little Yering Victorian Pinot Noir provides good value at $22 • Decoy California Pinot Noir ($50) shows typical dark fruit and pronounced oak character• Nanny Goat Central Otago Pinot Noir exhibits the region's characteristic robust styleNext week we'll be tasting Margaret River Chardonnay to explore whether the region is moving away from its traditionally rich style toward leaner expressions.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textIn light of the new pope, we ask the question: what do they drink in the Vatican? (The answer has Mel considering turning up to Sunday mass)Wine's new power player, Vinarchy, and what it means for the industry. An update on China exports – restocking, or a true comeback?A few industry shout-outsAnd… things get real. Meg opens up about what it's really like when the winery you work for goes into administration.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textWhat Meg's been drinking: Hirsch Hill Rose Pizzini La Volpe Nebbiolo $352022 Traviarti Mezzo Nebbiolo $45Fontanafredda Langhe Nebbiolo $40Fontanafredda Barolo DOCG $110 Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textGerman Riesling demystifies the often confusing terminologies found on labels by breaking down quality classifications based on ripeness levels at harvest and their relationship to final sweetness. We unpack the intricate world of German wine labels to help you navigate these complex yet incredibly rewarding wines.• German quality wine is ranked based on grape sugar levels at harvest, not final sweetness• Kabinett (11.5% potential alcohol) features citrus, green apple, and high acidity• Spätlese (13% potential alcohol) shows more ripeness with red apple and apricot notes• Auslese (14% potential alcohol) often includes some botrytis influence with marmalade character• Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese represent noble rot-affected and dried botrytis grapes• Eiswein (ice wine) offers concentrated sweetness without botrytis, yielding just 50 liters per ton• Alcohol level on the label indicates residual sugar – lower alcohol means more sweetness• VDP eagle symbol on bottles indicates membership in an elite producer group• Vineyard designations like "Grosses Gewächs" represent single-vineyard, high-quality wines• Wines with residual sugar provide perfect balance to high natural acidity• German Rieslings can age beautifully, developing complexity while maintaining freshnessNext week: Is Nebbiolo the next Sangiovese? We explore whether this Italian variety is becoming Australia's next big alternative grape variety. Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textMeg and Mel explore the fascinating world of ageworthy white wines, examining which varieties cellar best and how to identify bottles worth laying down.What Meg's drinking: 2023 Marchand & Burch Mount Barrow Pinot Noir $72Wines tasted:2024 Howard Park Great Southern Riesling $362014 Howard Park Great Southern Riesling 2024 Scarborough The Obsessive Semillon $352018 Scarborough The Obsessive Simillion 2023 The Obsessive Chardonnay $452019 The Obsessive ChardonnayKey things to remember:• Acid is the most important factor for aging white wine successfully• Look for moderate alcohol (12.5-13.5%), good concentration, and varietal expression• Riesling, Semillon, and Chardonnay are the three main varieties suitable for long-term aging• Hunter Valley Semillon transforms dramatically from delicate lemon-citrus to complex honey and toast• Aged Riesling develops kerosene, marmalade and preserved lemon characteristics• Chardonnay requires quality oak treatment to age well, peaking around 10-12 years• Cheaper Riesling and Semillon can still age beautifully, while inexpensive Chardonnay will not• Buy a dozen bottles and taste one each year to experience the aging journey firsthandJoin us next week as we explore German wine ripeness levels, diving into Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Trockenbeerenauslese, and more! Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textWe dive into the world of chillable red wines, What Meg's drinking: Running with BullsFringe Societe Gamay $21Garage Project Fairy Bread Red $28Chaffey Bros Not Your Grandma's Chillable Red $25Domane Wachau Blauer Zweigelt $30Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textChinese wine is making waves in the global market with premium producers like Silver Heights showcasing the potential of regions like Ningxia through biodynamic viticulture and French winemaking techniques. We taste and evaluate two high-end offerings that challenge our expectations and reveal the rapid evolution of China's wine industry.• China ranks as the 12th largest wine producer in the world• Chinese wine industry began serious development in the late 1970s when the country opened to foreign investment• Ningxia province is gaining recognition for quality Cabernet Sauvignon production• Silver Heights winery produces biodynamically and organically grown wines using both Western philosophies and Chinese principles• The premium Chardonnay ($89) shows beautiful minerality, green papaya notes and well-integrated oak• The Cabernet Sauvignon ($115) displays intriguing local character with notes of shiso leaf, shiitake and tea• Chinese wine evolution mirrors Australia's development in the 1980s with young vines still finding their identity• Drastic continental climate in Ningxia requires vintners to mound snow over vines during winter• Chinese wines are increasingly available in Australian specialty wine shops like Cardwell CellarsFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textWe're back and better than ever with an exciting setup for the new season, ready to delve into current wine news and trends. The episode highlights the current challenges faced by the wine industry and how we can navigate through them. • Return of the podcast and upcoming plans for the season • Update on vintage trends and climate impact on wine quality • Discussion on cellar doors closing and the shift in wine tourism • Insights into the joint marketing between Australia and New Zealand wines • Details on collectible wines and white wines leading the trends • Analysis of potential tariffs from the U.S. and their implications Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textWhat Meg's drinking: 2018 Tyrrell's Semillon $35Wines tasted:Terra Rossa Merlot Coonawarra 2020 $33Casillero Del Diablo Reserve Carmenere $26Earthworks Barossa Tempranillo $19Salterio Mencia Bierzo $17Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textOur top picks from every wine we tried this year!9.2022 MDI Picolit $298. Horton white classic $107. 2022 Wallis Chardonnay $906. Mumm 4 Ans $775. 2021 Carranco Etna Bianco Villa dei Baroni $604. 2021 Yarra Yering Pinot Noir $1303. Velich Welschriesling 2021 $402. 2022 Sabi Wabi Semillon $391. Howard Park Riesling - 2018 $45Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textUncover the secrets to enjoying a festive wine selection without breaking the bank this Christmas! Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textOur unfiltered thoughts about some key discussions from the Chardonnay Symposium.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textEverything we follow about the world of wine.Wine NewsWine titles – daily wine news Winebusiness.comSVBHarpers.co.ujDrinks businessIWSR Euromonitor Jancis RobinsonWine Reviews and storiesHalliday The Real Review Podcasts Wine Blast Food Matters Got Somme Thirty Fifty Interpreting wineWine Victoria Podcast Instagrams@Huntress_wines @The_angry_somm@Shittywinememes@Karafoodwine  Movies + SeriesSide ways Somm Blind side Drops of GodUncorkedRed ObsessionSour Grapes Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textEver wondered why white wine blends don't get the same spotlight as reds? Join us as we explore their hidden complexities and charmWe know red blends are 'a thing' - what about whites? We find out.  What Mel's drinking: 2018 Crittenden Cri de Coeur Savagnin Sous Voile $95Houghton White Classic $102023 Eleventh House Sorella $28Sun Monkey White Blend NV $22Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textCeleb wines worth the hype? Let's find out.Wines tasted:Dolly Parton Sparkling NV $22Kylie Minogue Prosecco Rose $20Miraval Studio Rosé $2919 Crimes Snoop Dogg Cali Red 2020 $16Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textWhat Meg's drinking: Humis 2024 Grenache Blanc $29Wines tasted: Red Hill Estate Sparkling Cuvee $14Jim Barry Watervale Riesling $15De Bortoli Rosé $14Z Wine Rustica Barossa Valley Grenache $19Sydney Wine Bar: Flight Path Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textNews we discuss this week:What the re-instating of the outsed Australian Vintage CEO says about company cultureGimlet has won Australia's Wine List of the Year award for 2024 (Timeout)An update on Aussie wine in China as we get more negative press over "expired" moscato (Vino Joy News)An anonymous letter stirs the pot on nepotism in the wine industry (Wine Business Magazine)The Orange wine region's new identity, "A Drop Above,"- is regional branding working in Australia? (Wine Titles)Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textGuigal Côtes du Rhône $30Claymore You'll Never Walk Alone Clare Valley GSM $17Serafino McLaren Vale GSM $25Hentley Farm The Marl Grenache $25Final drop:Handpicked Wines Collection Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2019 $50Handpicked WinesCollection Yarra Valley Chardonnay 2019Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textA closer look into museum wines - we compare three young wines with their older counterparts.Wines tasted:- Howard Park Riesling - 2023 + 2018- Ten Minutes by Tractor Wallis Chardonnay - 2022 + 2015- Lowe Zinfendel 2021 + 2017Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textAll about museum wines. Meg nerds out.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textEver wondered how the right kind of bubbles can elevate a sparkling wine experience? We explore the science and art behind creating perfect bubbles with a story about ultrasonic sound and its impact on wine ratings. Glassware can make or break your sparkling wine journey, and we dive into why that's the case with a deep dive into the visual appeal and taste enhancements offered by a $100 hand-blown glass.  Join us for a fun and nerdy session full of wine-geek moments!Wines tasted:Riccadonna ProseccoRob Dolan NV Black Label Blanc de BlancHoward Park Jeté Brut Sparkling NVMumm 4 ansFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a textEver wondered what's beyond Austria's famous Grüner Veltliner? We're diving into some great white wines like Riesling and some lesser-known treats such as Welsh Riesling and Muscat Ottonel. If you're into white wines, this is a must-listen!Wines tasted:Domane Wachau 'Federspiel Bruck' Riesling 2021 $32Velich Welschriesling 2021 $402020 Velich Muskat Ottonel $402022 Pittnauer Perfect Day $54Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a Text Message.Are the days of affordable Australian wines numbered? Tune in to this episode of Wine with Meg and Mel as we uncover the seismic shifts in ownership shaking up the Australian wine industry. From Pernod Ricard passing its wine portfolio to Accolade Wines, to Treasury Wine Estates offloading well-known brands like Lindemans and Wolf Blass, the landscape is changing fast. We're also celebrating the stars of the 2025 Holiday Wine Awards! Plus, we'll share how Aldi UK's marketing magic is positioning its wines as the new go-to for luxury on a budget. Get ready for an engaging discussion on these exciting developments in the wine world.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a Text Message.Ready to discover which country reigns supreme in our first-ever Wine Olympics? Join us as we pit iconic wines from four nations against each other. What meg's drinking: Vue on Halcyon RoseAndre Kientzler Gewurztraminer Osterberg $97Tahbilk Marsanne 2016 $20Southern Right Pinotage $60Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel $60Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a Text Message.What if everything you thought you knew about Lambrusco was wrong? Join us as we welcome Niko Pellacani, an expert from the heart of Modena, who shares his extraordinary journey from Italy to Napa Valley and back. Discover how his experiences in both regions have shaped his unique perspective on wine, and learn about his plans to further his expertise with an MBA in wine business at Sonoma State University.Lambrusco is undergoing a renaissance, and Niko is here to debunk long-standing myths and celebrate its diversity. We explore the fascinating world of Lambrusco, highlighting grape varieties like Salamino, Sorbara, and Grasparossa, and delve into the production techniques that set them apart. Gain insights into the complexities of this often misunderstood wine, from its traditional methods to innovative modern practices.Join us for an immersive tasting session and cultural journey, where Niko takes us through the flavors of a 2020 Metodo Classico Rosé and other intriguing varieties. We discuss the perfect food pairings, the rich heritage of Lambrusco, and what makes a wine tour in Modena an unforgettable experience. From the hills to the plains, discover the terroir-driven nuances that define these exceptional wines and get inspired by Niko's passion and vision for the future of Lambrusco.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

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Send us a Text Message.Can the color of a wine glass alter your perception of taste? Join us for a thought-provoking episode where we conduct a fun and fascinating experiment.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a Text Message.We're exploring Aussie fortified and comparing it to its brothers in Portugal, thanks to the help of Galway Pipe! Wines tasted:GALWAY 10 YO BOURBON BARREL TAWNY $65GALWAY 15 YO RUM BARREL TAWNY $80 GALWAY 12 YO GRAND TAWNY $36GALWAY 25 YO RARE TAWNY $100 Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Send us a Text Message.Headlines: - Bollinger opens new tourist location complete with wellness hub and shop - are the champanoise finally having to use traditional marketing techniques instead of relying on rarity and prestige?- New not-a-wine-bar in Melbourne offers 150 wines by the glass - is this 140 too many?- Gender gap still wide in wine despite report showing progress for women - what are we doing? Deep Dive: We interview Dr Mardi Longbottom from AWRI on the new SWA report - how sustainable is the wine industry? Are we getting anywhere?Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Part 2 of our chat with Sarah Crowe.Wines tased:2021 Pinot Noir $1302021 Dry Red Wine No. 2 $1352021 Dry Red Wine No. 1 $1552021 Carrodus Cabernet Sauvignon $275Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

An intro to the fabulous Sarah Crowe and Yarra Yering winery. Wines tasted: Yarra Yering 2022 Chardonnay $130Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

This  wine news we:Look at the Real Review Top Wineries listTalk to Lee McLean from Australian Grape & Wine about China reopening to Australian wineChat to Nick Ryan about taking the reins from James Halliday for The Australian wine column.Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

A light red comes up in a tasting - do you know how to tell what it is?  We tell you the tricks.Wines tasted:Lingo 'Gam' Gamay $20Zonzo Estate Pinot Noir $27Hentley Farm The Marl Grenache $25Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

What Mel's drinking: 2023 ‘Chica' RoséWines tasted:2023 Brokenwood Semillon $272023 Yalumba Y Series Chardonnay $152023 The Ethereal One Vermentino $232023 AMBERLEY CHIMNEY BRUSH CHENIN BLANC $122023 Tim Adams Riesling $18Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

What Meg's been drinking: Andre Clouet Dream Vintage 2006 Final Drop: Billy Button Rosso $25Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

This wine news we Deep Dive with guest Tash Dale from Australian Vintage to dissect why only 20% of Australia's winemakers are female, despite equal gender in university wine courses. We ask Tash - what can the industry do about it?Headlines:0.56 - Four Corners investigates misleading claims on wine labels6.40 - WA have had a horrific vintage following their hottest summer on record10.32 -  Winos debate Cellar Door tasting fees in AustraliaFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

FINALLY, ETNA!2021 Carranco Etna Bianco Villa dei Baroni $602020 Etna Bianco Contrada Carranco $1002018 Carranco Etna Rosso Villa dei Baroni $60 2019 Etna Rosso Contrada Carranco $140  Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

"Cool wines" often come from cooler regions, funnily enough.  But we've got a round-up of fun wines you'll want to taste from regions you might not expect.What Meg's drinking: 2023 Meadowbank Riesling $38Wines tasted 2022 MDI Picolit $292022 Sabi Wabi Semillon $392023 Unico Zelo Fresh AF $252021 Ricca Terra Vintners Aglianico $27Final Drop PRESS + BLOOM MONTEPULCIANO $25Mel's recco - Lennox Wine Bar Learn more about the Chardonnay SymposiumFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Tasting the scale wines that come out of Riverland. Look out for an upcoming ep where we taste from the smaller wineries!Wines tasted:Innocent Bystander Pink Moscato $20Cupio Pink Pinot Grigio $18 Grant Burge Classic Collection Shiraz $8Banrock Station Crimson Cabernet $8Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Our first monthly episode of wine news! Hear about key stories in the world of wine and join us on a deep dive about the oversupply in Riverland, and what the government could do about it.Headlines:3.08 - Wine exports 10.40 - Penfolds releases new Champagne15.00 - Vintage updateDeep Dive:18.50 - Why there's grape growers protesting in RiverlandFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Our top 10 wines of the year! Lowe Family Wines Ansonica $42Oakridge Garden Gris Piquette $22 Yalumba The Tri-Centenary $55Louis Moreau Chablis 1er Cru Vau Ligneau $952017 Carrodus Cabernet Sauvignon $275Airlie Bank Cabernet Franc $24Penfolds Reserve Bin A Chardonnay 2005 $110Sentio Beechworth Chardonnay $68Petaluma Riesling 2017 $45Pemo Pecorino Terre di Chieti $16 Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

All about Savvy B!Wines tasted:Oyster Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc $16Giesen Uncharted Sauvignon Blanc $16Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc $30Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2023 $80Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

What Meg's been drinking: 2022 Nepenthe Pinnacle Albariño $35Listen to our Dyl & Friends EpisodeCheck out Gippsland pours - a night of legends and rising starsWines tasted: Henkell Dry-Sec Sparkling $14.99Croser Sparkling Rose NV $19.99Georg Jensen Hallmark Cuvée $37.40Chandon Vintage Blanc de Blanc de Blancs 2017 $48Veuve Rozier Champagne Brut NV $32Final Drop: 2023 St Leonards Vineyard 'Pilot Project' Ruby $32Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Old vines and bush vines are big marketing buzz words. They're great in theory - but do they actually change the taste of the wine?Wines tasted:Yalumba Barossa Bush Vine Grenache $28Yalumba Vine Vale Grenache $40Yalumba The Tri-Centenary $65Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Rioja gets a lot of attention but there's some killer wines coming out of Spain worth trying! Marqués de Riscal Rueda Blanco $17Pulpo Albariño $23Aurkitu Garnacha Vinas Viejas $27Rar Esséncia Priorat Doq  $37Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

We welcome Colleen Haggarty to take us through the women killing it in wine at the moment.Pacha Mama Pinot Gris $27Quealy Tussie Mussie Pinot Gris $34Brown Brothers Patricia Chardonnay $53Yarra Yering Agincourt $100Wynns Coonawarra Estate Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 $40Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

We take you on a tour around the Loire  - the top wines and regions, and what you should be buying to drink this weekend! Veuve Amiot Crémant de Loire Brut $19Sauvion Cardinal Richard Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie $24Famille Bougrier Confidences Vouvray $22Domaine Des Grosses Pierres Sancerre $47Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

They're from France, but not one of the fancy regions. Worth drinking?What Meg's drinking: Santolin Gladysdale ChardonnayWines tasted: Paul Mas Chardonnay $12Miraval Studio Rosé $27Marrenon Les Grains Pinot Noir $19Le Grand Roi Bouches du Rhone $12Final drop: Hydropath Society 2019 Seeing Red GrenacheFollow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

Out West in Victoria is  a hidden region with history, and they're absolutely killing it. 2022 Foudre Ferment Riesling $35Seppelt Original Sparkling Shiraz NV $25Seppelt Drumborg Pinot Noir $40Mount Langi Ghiran Cliff Edge Shiraz $33Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel