Podcast appearances and mentions of james suckling

Join us this week as we dive into the bold and flavorful 2021 Knappstein Clare Valley Shiraz! The boys find themselves with some unusual people but with great wine, all thanks to our brand-new game, 'I'm Wine with That?' Plus, get familiar with Australia's stunning Clare Valley wine region, where we just might finally agree with the one and only James Suckling. Don't miss this episode packed with wine, laughs, and a few surprises! Don't miss out on this exciting episode! Thanks for listening, and as always—Happy Sipping! Chapters 00:00-Pre-Show Banter 2:55-Intro 10:56-Game: "I'm Wine with That!" 16:44-Learning Segment: Clare Valley 23:45-Wine Discussion 32:15-Wine Review 37:28-Outro Connect with the show. We would love to hear from you! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠stopwastingyourwine.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠

Tonight, our wine-tasting duo takes part in our first-ever head-to-head challenge. We will examine the differences between the two wines and help you decide which wine is right for you. Pinot Noir is the wine that made Burgundy France famous, but what about Pinot from the New World, specifically, California and Oregon. Oregon is known for its Pinot, and its cooler climate has perfect growing conditions. Oregon Pinot is known for its earthiness, minerality, and fruitiness. California Pinot is often a slightly heavier body, darker, and more fruit-forward wine. Tonight, we taste:1. 2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. https://www.talbottvineyards.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.49. James Suckling gave this wine a 93. Wine Enthusiast rated it a 92. It comes from Monterey, Central Coast, California. Estate-grown, fruit-driven with just a touch of French Oak. Wine Enthusiast said aromas of cedar, grilled strawberry, and cracked pepper. Flavors of mace and cumin.2. 2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. https://www.wvv.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.00. This wine comes from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The Vineyard has iron-rich volcanic soils. They thin the grapes to increase the intensity of the grapes. It has raspberry, strawberry preserves, cardamom spice, and earth aromas. Another source says aromas of dried dark cherries, cinnamon, and cranberry. Taste of cherry, leather, tobacco, and fresh acidity. Ph of 3.33 - 3.50. Stainless steel barrels are used for fermentation. Next week we will have a Bargain Hunt Show looking for great tasting white wines under $10. The wines will include:1. 2022 Bouchard Aine & Fils, Chardonnay, purchased at Costco for $9.99.2. 2023 Famille Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone from Costco for $9.99.3. 2023 Vignobles Lacheteau, Sauvignon Blanc purchased at Trader Joe's for $6.99.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo heads down south, way down south to Argentina. Malbec is a Bordeaux grape that has become less popular in France but is king in Argentina. Malbec is the most planted grape by far in Argentina. It produces over half of the worlds Malbec. (According to the Oxford Wine Companion) Malbecs from Argentina are riper and more velvety than those from France. Malbec was a widely planted grape in California before prohibition. Plantings have again been growing in California.Malbec is a medium to full-body wine, normally fruit-forward. It has red and dark fruit flavors. The warmer the climate, the darker the fruit. Many Malbecs have little oak aging. Cahors in Southwestern France produces a lot of Malbec called Cot. It has darker fruit flavors with higher tannins and smoke or earthiness. Malbec often has a purple tint. Tonight, we taste: 1. 2022 Kirkland Signature Malbec $6.99 at Costco. The wine is produced in Mendoza, Argentina. Aged 12 months in French Oak Barrels. The Wine Adventure Journal and Reverse Wine Snob say - Aromas: Plum, blackberry, cola, licorice, vanilla, dusty spice, fig, and leather. Taste – Vanilla, chocolate, plum, black cherry. They call it an easy-to-drink wine with earthy characteristics. Reverse Wine Snob calls it a bulk buy. 2. 2022 Zuccardi Serie A $11.99 at Costco. I saw online for $14.00 to $17.00. This wine comes from the Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina. Robert Parker gave it a 92. The winemaker says, Aroma: cherry and prunes, with black pepper and tobacco. Also get chocolate, cherry liqueur, and spicy notes. Soft and velvety with firm tannins. 3. 2022 Wapisa Malbec $14.99 from Costco. The wine comes from Patagonia, Argentina. James Suckling gave it a 94. Flavors of dark plums and blackberries, chocolate, ripe tannins, and good acidity. Next week we are having our first challenge show. It is a Pinot Noir Challenge and features a California Pinot verse a Oregon Pinot. The wines will include:1. 2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. Purchased from Costco for $17.49. 2. 2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. Purchased from Costco for $17.00.

Krawall, Bestechung und Lebensgefahren: Das Leben unseres heutigen Gastes in drei Wörtern. Welchen Spitznamen er liebt? Batman der Weinkritik. Für alle, die noch nicht drauf gekommen sind: Die Rede ist natürlich von Stuart Pigott, aus England importierter Experte Nummer eins für Karojackets und deutschen Riesling. Und mal ehrlich: Wer wäre besser geeignet für eine Paartherapie von Willi und Curly als er? Richtig, niemand. Genau deshalb ist er auch zu Gast in Deutschlands sympathischem kleinen Weinpodcast. Achso, und um über Clickbaiting in der Weinkritik, Penisvergleiche und Drehbücher zu sprechen. Alles in dieser Riesling-Folge - ganz nach dem Motto: Mit dem Kopf durch die Decke. Folgt „Terroir & Adiletten“ auf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terroirundadiletten Folgt Stuart Pigott auf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuart.pigott/ Website: https://www.stuartpigott.de/ Folgt Willi auf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willi_drinks Folgt Curly auf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelifeofcurly Produzent: pleasure* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pleasure_berlin TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pleasure_berlin Website: https://www.pleasure-berlin.com/ Magazin: https://www.thisispleasure.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pleasureberlin

En esta ocasión tocaremos 3 vinos que muestran la grandeza cualitativa de los vinos italianos, es una colección de “PURA CALIDAD”, rendimos culto a ella, sin querer demostrar las virtudes de una región o tipo de vino determinado; sino que más bien un pequeño mosaico de posibilidades con tres vinos que consideramos extraordinarios. Son originarios de dos regiones geográficas, pero tres estilos diametralmente opuestos: un siciliano y dos toscanos: uno tradicional y otro “outlaw”. Los vinos de esta selección son los siguientes: -DORILLI 2018, Planeta Vini. Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico D.O.C.G. (Sicilia), Italia; D.O.C.G. https://planeta.it; 70% Nero D'Avola y 30% Frappato. Nota: Recibió 93 pts. De James Suckling // Alessio Planeta nombrado Wine Maker of the Year 2023 por Wine Enthusiast  -PERANO 2020, Tenuta Perano (Marchesi de Frescobaldi). D.O.C.G. Chianti Classico (Gaiole in Chianti, Siena, Toscana), Italia; https://www.frescobaldi.com; 90% Sangiovese y 10% Canaiolo. Nota: Recibió 92 pts de James Suckling y 91 de Robert Parker   -INSOGLIO DEL CINGHIALE 2020. Tenuta Campo di Sasso (Biserno). IGT Toscana (Maremma), Italia http://www.biserno.it; 39% Syrah, 23% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon,  4% Petit Verdot y 8% otras uvas. Nota: Recibió 93 pts de James Suckling,  91 de Robert Parker y 90 Wine Spectator. ¡Que lo disfrutes!

As the first iconic wine of Chile, Don Melchor has paved a path for many others to follow. Enrique Tirado, CEO and Technical Director, explains the vision behind Don Melchor, how it became an instant icon of Chile, and how it stays on top of its game.  Detailed Show Notes: Enrique's background - studied agronomy and enology, joined Don Melchor in 1993, became winemaker in 1997, in 2011, Don Melchor Winery was created and became CEODon Melchor overview:One specific vineyard in Puente Alto on the north bank of the Maipo River at the foot of the Andes Mountains1st vintage - 1987127ha, 151 parcelsMainly Cabernet SauvignonUses ~60-70% of the vineyard for Don Melchor wine~12-15k cases of 1 wine produced each year“One unique history, one terroir, one wine” is the ethos behind Don MelchorThe remainder of the fruit goes to other wines in the Concho y Toro portfolio (e.g., Marquis de Casa Concha)Becoming an iconic Chilean wineIt was 1st to create an “icon” wine in ChileIt was the most expensive Chilean wine on initial release1988, 2nd vintage, was in the Top 100 of Wine Spectator - the only Chilean wine and a big deal at the time which established Don Melchor's statusA string of critical praise - WS Top 100 9x, 3x in the Top 10, 100 points from James Suckling, Best of the Best from Robb ReportExport 90% of the wine to 70 countries; main markets include the US, Brazil, ChinaBecoming iconic todayIt is easier for other Chilean wines as Chile's reputation is more establishedThe country's image is critical and requires collaboration with other producersConsistency of quality is critical for both winemaking and the commercial sideAdd value to the wine world - e.g., come from a unique place, have a unique expression and personalityMay create a 2nd wine in the futureStaying on topRequires a singular focus on quality and consistencyNeed to focus on communication and optimizing the best routes to marketWine critics are still important, and they make consumer communication fasterCustomized routes to market by country (e.g., US, Brazil) and have offices in different countriesSold by the Concha y Toro sales forceHave a specific team for premium winesNot on La Place de Bordeaux  Get access to library episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rendiremos homenaje a este personaje que sufrió una separación de casi toda su familia (y de sus bodegas) al final de su vida, pero que fue uno de los pilares absolutos de esta D.O., incluyendo al famoso Pesquera y el atractivo Condado de Haza, segunda bodega de ellos mismos, vinos con una personalidad propia, muy bien definida dese siempre y hasta ahora. Los vinos de esta selección son los siguientes:   -CONDADO DE HAZA CRIANZA 2019, Condado de Haza (Familia Fernández Rivera). D.O. Ribera del Duero (La Horra, Burgos), España; 100% Tinta Fina (Tempranillo).  Nota: Este vino recibió 92 pts de James Suckling   -PESQUERA CRIANZA 2020, Tinto Pesquera (Familia Fernández Rivera). D.O. Ribera del Duero (Pesquera de Duero, Valladolid), España; 100% Tinta Fina (Tempranillo).  Nota: Este vino recibió 92 pts de James Suckling   -PESQUERA RESERVA 2019, Tinto Pesquera (Familia Fernández Rivera). D.O. Ribera del Duero (Pesquera de Duero, Valladolid), España. 100% Tinta Fina (Tempranillo). Nota: Este vino recibió 93 pts de James Suckling y de Wine Spectator   ¡Que lo disfrutes!

Matthieu Rollin, associé à son ami de toujours Nicolas Seffusatti, est à la tête du Domaine Viticole Cassagne et Vitailles situé sur les Terrasses du Larzac.  Il se définit comme un chef d'entreprise performant plutôt qu'un vigneron performant avec la quête de la perfection dans l'équilibre dans tous les compartiments de sa vie.  Matthieu a vécu une enfance principalement à l'étranger, en Afrique, jusqu'à ses dix ans. Après avoir passé une décennie en France, il poursuit son parcours au Vietnam, aux États-Unis, en Afrique du Sud et au Mozambique. C'est aux États-Unis que Matthieu et Nicolas ancrent leur amitié. Tous deux partagent une passion pour le vin et sont les seuls à en boire lorsque tout le monde préfère la bière.     A l'âge de 22 ans, il propose à une cave coopérative de développer leur service export, notamment en Chine au cours d'un VIE.  En 2008, il co-fonde avec Nicolas WINEO, destinée à mettre en relation des producteurs de vin français avec des clients chinois. A force de travail, de persévérance et de rencontres marquantes, de nombreux retailers internationaux (Carrefour, Auchan, Walmart, Tesco, etc.) leur ouvrent les portes.  Précurseurs et avant-gardistes car c'est entre 2010 et 2013 que le business du vin en Chine explose. Cette période faste où les concurrents sont encore peu présent les amène à structurer la société en faisant entrer Yannick Chaudrillier et Paola Campos.  Entre 2013 et 2016, la tendance se confirme. De nouvelles opportunités se dessinent notamment avec les grands groupes d'hôtellerie tels qu'Accor et l'ouverture à d'autres régions du monde comme les Etats-Unis, la Russie, La Nouvelle-Calédonie ou encore l'Afrique.      En 2016, WINEO génère un flux de 16 millions de bouteilles pour un CA de 34 M€.  Le rêve de développer leur propre vignoble refait surface et ils décident de rentrer en France et achètent, notamment, 7.85 ha sur les Terrasses du Larzac. Tout est à faire.  Ils choisissent d'adopter la biodynamie et la sélection massale après leur rencontre avec Lilian Bryon. Cette aventure les pousse à dépasser les limites et à créer les meilleurs vins possible, sans compromis. L'année 2018 est marquée par la perte de 75% de leur récolte en raison des conditions climatiques et par le classement de leurs vins parmi les 50 meilleurs au monde par James Suckling.  Leurs vins se retrouvent rapidement sur les cartes des grands restaurants trois étoiles Michelin, comme chez Gilles Goujon.  De part un positionnement hyper élitiste et un travail pointu et minutieux, ils participent activement à la redynamisation de la région Languedoc. De nombreux autres projets sont en développement comme l'nvestissement dans une vinothèque de très Grands Cru, notamment du Languedoc, pour en faire une activité de négoce très élitiste ou encore d'aider les petits producteurs à franchir les frontières en leur apportant une expertises sur les paramètres de notation, de distribution et de marketing.  Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Dagli studi per diventare enologo, all'incontro che gli ha cambiato la vita con il critico internazionale James Suckling.Raffaele Vecchione racconta a Mario Piccini le esperienze che lo hanno definito professionalmente e personalmente: i viaggi, gli incontri, una formazione a 360 gradi fino alla consapevolezza di voler diventare critico. Com'è cambiato questo mestiere negli anni, cosa fa un critico nel 2023

Ottimi risultati per Follador Prosecco dal 1769, elogiato negli ultimi mesi dalla critica mondiale: i riconoscimenti espressi dagli esperti, tra i più stimati e influenti del panorama enologico internazionale, hanno suscitato grande soddisfazione per l'intero team Follador che ora brinda al successo.Considerato il miglior sommelier al mondo in carica, l'italiano Eros Teboni ha pronunciato infatti pareri entusiastici sui DOCG di punta dell'azienda di Col San Martino, assegnando una valutazione di 93 punti a XZERO DOCG Extra Brut 2022; 93 punti a RUIOL CASTEI DOCG Extra Dry 2022; 91 punti a TORRI DI CREDAZZO Cru DOCG Extra Dry 2022 e 92 punti a Nani dei berti – Rive Col San Martino - DOCG Brut 2022.Si aggiungono a questi notevoli ratings anche quelli del critico americano James Suckling, di grande considerazione negli USA così come nel Sud-Est Asiatico, che ha attribuito 91 punti a XZERO DOCG Extra Brut 2022, precisando: “Un'ottima espressione contemporanea di Prosecco.”

In today's episode, Shelley and Phil taste through two wines from another Idaho Winery, Cinder, in honor of Idaho Wine Month which is June.  Cinder Winery is a small, family-owned winery located in Garden City, Idaho that produces a variety of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Tempranillo. Cinder Winery is committed to sustainable winemaking practices which we love!#HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing #GoCougs #DancingOnMyTongue Wines featured this episode:2022 Cinder Verdejo ($28 at the winery)

In today's episode, Shelley and Phil kick off Idaho Wine Month with a bang, tasting through two wines from the Veer Wine Project. Veer Wine Project is a small, family-owned winery located in Boise, Idaho and was founded in 2017 by Will Wetmore, a young winemaker with a passion for making delicious, affordable wines.  The winery's name, Veer, is a Hindi word that means "to dare." The name reflects Will Wetmore's willingness to experiment and take risks in his winemaking. #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #CheersingWines this episode:2022 Veer Wine Project Rêverie Reisling ($22 at the winery)

Angeline California Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2021-On The List Of Best Value Sauv Blanc Of 2023This is a Sauvignon Blanc that I found in Chicago for $7.99, but received 92 points from James Suckling the Worlds leading Wine Reviewer.Typically I don't get why cheap wine got big scores, but I do on this one!Long, balanced, and lean, but full of texture and flavor.For more information check out https://cheapwinefinder.com/ and of course, listen to the best independent wine podcast!!! Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Esteban Martin Garnacha Syrah 2021-$5 @ Costco Uptown $14 ElsewhereThis is a wine that received 92 points from James Suckling for its 2019 vintage.That means this winery knows how to make Garnacha Syrah wines.While every vintage is different, the know-how stays the same.For more information check out https://cheapwinefinder.com/ and of course, listen to the best wine PODCAST!!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Listen to James Suckling chat with Priscilla Incisa della Rocchetta, the owner of Tenuta San Guido, and Carlo Paoli, the general manager, about their 2020 vintage, including their renowned Sassicaia, and how it compares with 2019.

Today Michael and André are joined by Paul K of the Original Wine Of The Month Club. We discuss the current state of wine journalism and how important wine scores are when it comes to selling wine in 2023. We definitely make mention of James Suckling, Luca Maroni, and Carolyn Evans Hammond as people who's scores are regularly flagged as being out to lunch. You can subscribe to Paul K's Podcast at: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ You can listen to our appearance coming up on his show shortly! Support Two Guys Talking Wine on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/2guystalkingwine

My latest interview is with winemaker Daniel Twardowski whose ‘Pinot Noix' (yes Noix) are some of the most stuffing examples of German Pinot you will ever try. This is not hyperbole, from Jancis Robinson to James Suckling to everyone in between these are some most of highly prized German reds out there.  We chat about making Pinot in the land of Riesling and just what were the reaction of his neighbours when he undertook this venture.

This episode is all about showcasing the region's wine producers.The annual Clare Valley Wine Show was held recently with more than 200 people attending.  It's deemed a highlight on the calendar of those in the wine industry, a chance to catch up, wine and dine, and compete for the bragging rights of the coveted trophies.This year's show attracted 43 exhibitors, with 469 entries across 23 classes. A total of 302 medals were awarded, including 52 gold.In this episode you will hear from a few of the trophy winners, Peter Treloar from Penna Lane, Hilary Mitchell from Mitchell Wines and Olivia Barry from Jim Barry Wines and International Wine Judge and wine journalist with James Suckling.com, Stuart Pigott.For the full list of award winners: http://clarevalleywine.com.auThis podcast is proudly supported by the Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council.

James Suckling hat 93 Punkte springen lassen für den Viña Real Crianza 2019 vom Weingut Cune. Mal sehen wie er uns schmeckt dieser Rioja schmeckt. Der Wein ist erhältlich unter https://www.silkes-weinkeller.de/vierflaschen

How has James Suckling become one of the most influential wine journalist and reviewer? What is it that Americans like about Italian wines? Why the best Italian wines cost a fraction of the most prestigious French wines? Let's ask James Suckling.Questo è un contenuto gratuito, non sponsorizzato. Supportami iscrivendoti ai miei canali, seguendomi sui social (Instagram, Youtube, Linkedin) e leggendo i miei libri che trovi su Amazon e in libreria. E' l'unico modo per permettermi di continuare con passione e dedizione a offrirti questi contenuti. Grazie@theitalianwinegirl 

00 Wines has taken the wine world by storm with their luxury brand recently scoring a 99 from James Suckling. We always hear of these stellar wines and the company, but how often to we get to hear a person's journey to where they are today. My guest today, Kathryn Herman, grew up in Maine, lived in New York, moved to Denver and eventually to Portland Oregon creating her own startup and ended up in the world of wine. If you know 00 Wines, family roots run deep with Chris Herman's story. My conversation today takes you on a journey with a boss lady determined to make her mark in the world who enjoys the original Super Mario game, won a major award from the Oregon Technology Awards, and has poured 00 Wines at the American Ambassador Residence. Please enjoy this conversation with Kathryn Herman Cheers

Revolutionized by eliminating taxes on wine in 2008, Hong Kong has become a significant wine investment and trading hub for China and Asia in general. Polly Aylwin-Foster and Ian Ford of Nimbility Asia go deep into all aspects of the Hong Kong ("HK") wine market. From the HK wine consumer, the retail landscape, cross border transactions with China, the large "hand carry" market, and the British influence on the wine culture, they provide lots of essential data and detail for HK wine. Detailed Show Notes: 2008 - all wine duties removed for anything

Certified sommelier Michaela Quinlan and Robert Tas navigate the wine list at Anton's, a cafe wine bar in East Village that celebrates iconic recipes from a bygone era, along with a variety of house-made pasta. Anton's also provides a 550+ bottle-deep list, and upwards of 20 by-the-glass selections. With a list of that magnitude, a little help from the experts will help you find the right wine for your meal in addition to pointing out a few special bottles, including a spectacular vintage, rated 98 points by James Suckling. Wines reviewed include: Ciro Picariello, 906 Fiano di Avellino, 2019 Loimer Grüner Veltliner, Kamptal, 2019 Pietracupa Taurasi, 2014 from Campania For more information on today's episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.

Angeline California Pinot Noir 2020-A 91 Point $10 Pinot Noir!Angeline is the second label from Martin Ray Winery, a top-notch winery located in the Russian River AVA.The 2020 vintage was a horrible year for wine, fires, and hot and cold temps, this was not an ideal year.James Suckling the top wine critic gave the Angeline California Pinot Noir 91 points!Somehow Martin Ray made a top wine in bad conditions.Check out www.cheapwinefinder.com and listen to the best wine podcast!

Welcome to episode 821, the second in our new 7-part series with our fantastic partner LUX Wines. We are proud to present this series of interviews, diving deep into the heritage and legacy of their excellent Italian producers, in the run up to the launch of the new brand identity for their importer, which will be shared on March 16 in an episode with Marilisa Allegrini. Tune in every Saturday from 5 March through 16 April as we take an intimate look at these highly esteemed, historic producers and their role as part of the Lux family of wines. This episode is an interview with Sicilian winemaker Giuseppe Tornatore and Sarah Bray, selected by LUX Wine Portfolio as moderator for 3 episodes of the series. The Tornatore family have been growing grapes on the slopes of Mt. Etna in Sicily since 1865. Deep ties to Castiglione di Sicilia were developed when Giuseppe's grandfather and uncle worked closely with the local government to define vineyard boundaries and names of local districts. The winery lies on the northern side of the volcano, benefitting from the rich soil where lava, ash and lapilli stones have slowly disintegrated over time. The climate is mild and allows for late maturation of the grapes, assisted by altitudes ranging from 500-700 meters above sea level and strong thermal excursions. Tornatore produces high quality wines from their 60 acres of vineyards, one of the largest in the Etna DOC production zone. The vineyards have been recently restructured to improve quality and exalt the territory, with traditional high planting density and precise use of exclusively native varietals. Harvest is all by hand, maintaining high standards of quality and respect for tradition. Wines are aged in cellars insulated with local basalt rock underneath the winery. Wines include red, white, rosé and sparkling, all classified Etna DOC. Tornatore focuses on low environmental impact, with renewable energy sources. The wines are highly recognized, including the December 2021 award of 95 points by James Suckling for Etna Bianco Zottorinotto 2019. To learn more about Tornatore visit: https://tornatorewine.com/ To learn more about LUX and the rich heritage of the Luxury Portfolio, visit: https://www.luxwines.com/ More about the host Sarah Bray: Sarah is the co-founder of Batonnage Forum and holds the DipWSET. She is a wine-focused communications professional with a background in editorial and brand content creation, strategic development and implementation, event planning and execution, digital marketing, and education. To find out more about Sarah Bray visit: Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/sarah.h.bray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah.h.bray/ Website: http://sarahhbray.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhbray/ Let's keep in touch! Follow us on our social media channels: Instagram @italianwinepodcast Facebook @ItalianWinePodcast Twitter @itawinepodcast Tiktok @MammaJumboShrimp LinkedIn: If you feel like helping us, donate here www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ Until next time, Cin Cin!

Eva Fricke ist "Miss Riesling". 2019 erhielt sie gleich drei Mal 100 Punkte, einmal von Robert Parker und zweimal von James Suckling. Trotzdem war es für sie nicht nur ein leichtes Jahr. Wieso, das erzählt uns die Winzerin bei vier Rieslingen: Eva Fricke Rheingau Riesling trocken 2020, Eva Fricke Kiedrich Riesling trocken 2020, Eva Fricke Rheingau Riesling Mélange trocken 2020 und Eva Fricke Kiedrich Klosterberg Riesling Spätlese 2018. Das Weinpaket zu dieser Folge ist erhältlich unter www.silkes-weinkeller.de/vierflaschen

James talks with Sabine Eichbauer, the owner of Poderi Salicutti in Montalcino, Italy, along with Gianni Fabbri, Salicutti's winermaker, about how they got started in the business and the arc of their operations."We wanted to invest in wine, not necessarily a winery ... but then we kind of fell in love, funny enough, with an Australian [winery] near Melbourne," she said. After failing in their attempt to buy that winery, they soon set their sights on purchasing Salicutti, even though "it was never really on the market," but they soon came away with the property.Since that time, they have been working to elevate the quality of the Brunello they make, and are also experimenting with grapes on an extra hectare of property they purchased.

Having studied what was important to wine consumers working at Oddbins, a British wine retailer, Nicholas Hammeken, Founder and Director of Innovation at Hammeken Cellars, founded a company focused on crafting Spanish wines that match consumer preferences. He develops concepts with unique selling propositions, plays to modern tastes, and tries to be an ambassador of affordable luxury. Nicholas tells us all about how he thinks through creating the concept, developing the product, and bringing the wines to market globally.  If you love the show, please consider supporting us on Patreon.Detailed Show Notes: Nicholas' backgroundDanish-born, cellar master, worked at Taste of Wine in DenmarkWorked in the Mosel (Germany), Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Penedes (Cava, Spain)Worked at Oddbins in the UK - where he learned about consumer preferencesFell in love w/ Spain and moved there when his wife got a job thereHammeken Cellar OverviewSpanish wine in the 1990's - a little rustic, but could taste the tremendous potentialMotto - “modern Spanish wines…developed through an understanding of consumers needs” -> want to respect the history of the region, but take data to match to consumer preferencesBased in ValenciaWinemakers live in different parts of SpainExports 1.5M cases to 30 countriesHistorically strong in ScandinaviaGermany and Holland are big markets, US and Canada are important, while  Asia has been consistent with Japan being strong for many yearsChina rising as wine consumption growing (vs. gifting of wine)In 2021 - 50% of production are organic wines, sustainability is an important trend for HammekenConsumer preferences by marketEurope - like a more lean styleUS - prefers riper, more bold styleOften the style preferences match with the profile of local cuisineWines have a base element and then have components to fine-tune the wines for specific marketsOrganic trendN Europe was the driving force, particularly the monopoly markets, which gave distribution preference for organic winesUS/Europe now more aligned with regulations on organic winesWhole Foods was a pioneer in the USBrand development processE.g., “I'm Your Organic” brandHad nice juice to make an approachable wine made the tannins softer to create a very juicy style of wineCould make it cost $10-12Need to communicate a message to consumers to create a competitive edge -> every bottle (or bag in a box) sold, they will plant a treeLeverages Global Datato mine macro and micro consumer trends (e.g., organic product trend)Used to support decision makingDoes other consumer research - “lots of reading” - real all magazines, including grocery store magazinesImportance of the story -> need to have a purpose of the product, more USPs (unique selling propositions) -> e.g., where does the product come from (i.e., sense of place, which gives traceability), winemaker, etc. -> something apart from a pretty labelWants to be an ambassador of affordable luxury, $9.99 or $11.99 wines that taste and feel like $14.99 winesPackaging - requires a lot of trial and error to testThe more exclusive products tend to look more straightforward and more elegantScale buying power allows for lower costs for high-end closures, packagingE.g. - Mirada Rose from La ManchaDefined specific fruit flavors - berry citrusWant a “Provence” like colorUses extended time on leesIt has a unique bottleUses repeat buying to measure success - Mirada is seeing steady increases year over year in salesWines mostly have a DO/DOC designation - they need to taste like the region, but in a modern wayFinding new names - “a major headache” - legal names for the US, Europe, and Asia has become a lot more complex than ten years agoCreating the wineThe company is asset-light, leverage other people's facilitiesGo for a more modern, fresh style of wineOnce they have a clear idea of what they want to do, they search for vineyardsTry to source from a diverse set of vineyards to reduce nature risk (e.g., hail)Old vines are key -> gives a more unique expression, more balanced fruitHave their own winemakers, but rent facilitiesVineyard sourcing a mix of long-term rentals, short term agreements, and spot market purchases at harvestHave a contract agronomist to direct grape growingGo-to-market (“GTM”) StrategyLink up with partners, people who want to be first movers on the productOften have a dialogue in place before developing new conceptsTarget marketsFor new concepts - test in smaller marketsFor clear ideas - go for 3-5 markets to have volume from the beginningKeys for product placementsMonopoly markets - can lobby for 2-3 years to provoke a tender that you've helped define (therefore more likely to wine)3rd party endorsement is important (e.g., critic ratings)Critic ratings big in US / Canada initially, but rest of the world has followed -> important because some buyers are risk-averseAsia - likes to see success in other markets firstMarketing & PromotionSocial media is importantNeed to invest for products on the shelvesMore important channels - product placement (the right place at the right price point), then a mix of endorsement with points and price proposition (e.g., discounts) can drive more significant salesE.g., LCBO (largest buyer in the world) - showed them a gap in their portfolio (mix of packaging, style, and price point) and was willing to invest in promotions to be successfulWine critic influenceAmerican media (e.g., Wine Enthusiast, Robert Parker, Wine Spectator, James Suckling) strong in US / Canada, but also have a global influenceDecanter - more important outside the USJancis Robinson - w/ 20 point score, need $25+ bottles for consumers to understand what this meansBrand lifecycleMost brands are regional stars, a few work worldwideLifecycle is usually 3-5 yearsProduct segments get overcrowded and make the brand lose market shareSignal of downtrend - when the effectiveness of promotion fallsCorporate Social ResponsibilityTry to allow consumers to make an active choice, e.g., I'm Your Organic and planting a treeUses Goodwings to offset the carbon footprint of corporate travelWants to do a detailed mapping of CO2 footprint of product production and use this as a tool to educate wine buyers

As the largest wine e-commerce site globally, Wine.com has been a leader in leveraging technology to sell wine. Addie Wallace, Director of Brand Marketing, gives us insight into how wine.com leverages the marketing funnel to drive awareness and conversion, has built a differentiated offering online, and is pushing the boundaries of customization with their new personalized wine club Picked. There's a lot to learn about the future of retail in this episode of XChateau! Detailed Show Notes: Addie's backgroundShe started her career in financeIn business school, led the Wine & Cuisine Society and created a wine recommendation appCompleted her WSET Level 3Pitched Wine.com an idea to have a personalized wine club, which she launchedManages brand, customer insights, and subscription businesses for Wine.comWine.com's historyIt started as evineyard.com in 1998Acquired wine.com URL and brand in 2001 when original wine.com went bankruptKey milestonesThe most extensive assortment of wine in the world, over 17,000 wines vs. ~2-3,000 in a typical wine storeLive chat functionality w/ sommeliers (started 6-7 years ago, one of the first to use the functionality) - replaces people in aisles helping you in a wine storeBuilding out physical presence - serves 42 states and DC, can reach 80% of customers in 2 daysWorking on personalization$355M in revenue in Fiscal Year 2021E-commerce trendsBelieves e-comm growth will continue, but not at the same pace in the pandemicPandemic showed people they could shop for wine online (built awareness)2016 study - showed e-comm only ~3% of alcohol shoppingWine.com core differentiatorsVariety / selection - leads to continual discoveryLive chat - people are not commissioned, only there to help you find the best winesConvenience - including StewardShip for free deliveryPersonalization - with Picked, the personalized wine club, and building more personalization into the websiteMarketing channelsUses different channels for different parts of the marketing funnelTop - get people to know the brandMiddle - get people familiar with how the brand is differentiatedBottom - use promotions to get people to convertWine.com does a lot of digital advertising - social media, affiliate marketing, search, Google shoppingEach channel is effective for different customer needsE.g., - Google Shopping - good for when customers are looking for something specificPodcasts - for educating people that they can buy wine online and get them to shop at wine.comSearch/Google Shopping - has the largest # of eyeballsHigh ROI - direct mail, the non-digital marketing Wine.com doesDiscounting / coupons - help with getting customers to convert, promotions need to be structured to attract the right audienceSocial media - has been challenging, changing regulatory landscape, privacy restrictions, and constantly changing algorithm, as well as lots of competitors using it makes it hard to be winning at it and need to evolve continuallySome marketing channels are hard to measure results - e.g., - print media (can use QR codes or promo codes to help track)New channels - spending more time on podcasts, new social platforms (e.g.,-  Snap, TikTok) don't currently allow alcohol adsStewardShip ProgramIt started as a free shipping program, for an annual fee (currently $59/year)It gets consumers to shop more frequentlyBecoming more comprehensive, like Amazon Prime, more perks to feed the wine lifestylee.g., -  free tickets to events, both in-person and virtual (gave away 100 free tickets to James Suckling tasting events, 1:1 virtual tasting with the Gaja family)Special promotions and early access to some wines~60% of revenue is from membersDrives high retention rate for membersThe annual fee pays for itself if you buy 2 cases/year~$40/case, ~$30/6 bottles to ship normallyPicked - personalized wine clubLaunched in 2020Tell them wine preferences, get matched with a personal sommelierSelect 6 wines every 1-3 monthsNo two customers get the same thingLeverage tech to make sommelier selections more manageable and more diverse, but lots of human judgementThe sommelier writes a personal note for the winesOne sommelier could theoretically support thousands of Picked customersClub differentiationPersonal elementSelection - a lot of new discoveriesOnly sell “real” wines, no private labelsLevel of control/customization - price points, frequency, feedback, amount of red vs. whiteSome overlap w/ StewardShip but primarily targets different segmentsStewardShip - more self serve customersPicked - people who want more help in selectingOther wine.com personalization initiativesMaking the largest wine store curated just for youElevate recommendations and put them in contextUse prior purchase data, ratings, and if a wine was added to the shopping cartUser ratingsStewardShip members rate more frequentlySend emails to encourage ratingsWine.com App - users more likely to ratePicked members provide ratings to help personal sommsLeveraging technology to elevate the wine retail experienceRecommendation engines, email programsWine.com App - the store and wine encyclopedia in your pocketVirtual tastingsWine.com is likely never to go brick & mortarWould limit the selection availableWould limit personalization of experience

James Suckling sits down with Lucie Pereyre de Nonancourt and Edouard Cossy of the renowned French Champagne House Laurent-Perrier to taste the Grand Siècle No. 25, which consists of the 2008 (65 percent), 2007 (25 percent) and 2006 (10 percent) vintages. "I think it's interesting because right away when you smell it, you can get the sense of 2008 in it – that real intense aroma," James says. "In the nose you can even smell the skins of the grapes still. Amazing."Compared with the No. 24, the No. 25 "has a lot of freshness and a lot of acidity with still young aromas," Lucie says. James agrees, saying "It just smells so youthful," adding that "it has a lot of structure but it's also elegant at the same time."

Library Release: Originally aired as Episode 5 in June of 2020.  In one of our original episodes, Robert and Peter discuss how competitive the wine market is, how wine scores used to differentiate wines from each other, but do that less today, and the use of wine scores has evolved over time.  This episode provides another data point for the conversation around the evolution of the wine critic, as discussed in episodes 61 - 64.  Detailed Show Notes: Wine scores were the traditional method of differentiating a wine brandThe wine landscape is getting more competitive and crowded, # of wine brands (as of 2019): >1,000 in Napa valley~4,000 in California~10,000 in the US~300,000 globallyIn Luxury Wine Marketing, Peter did an analysis of 100 point scores in Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate: 1995 - 14 100 pointers2005 - 332015 - 116In 20 years, there were 8x more 100 point scores, making them less remarkable than in the pastHowever, the same percentage of wines (0.4%) got 100 points in 2015 as in 1995, as 8x more wines were reviewed by The Wine AdvocateHow wineries use critic scoresIn the past - wineries leveraged the followers of wine critics, gaining new customers20+ years ago, thousands of buyers would flock to wineries with a 100 point score; today, that number is in the hundredsToday - wineries use scores to promote and market their wines - they are used as a validation of quality, not necessarily dependant on a specific wine criticSpinouts of wine criticsMany critics have gone independent - Jeb Dunnuck (guest of Episode 64), Antonio Galloni (Vinous), James Suckling, Jeannie Cho Lee, Jancis Robinson - making the field more crowded than everIt has become harder to follow a single critic than in the pastWineries need to build their brandsE.g., Philippe Guigal once said, “we don't do marketing” - and is able to do that because Guigal has already built their brand in the trade with over 20 Robert Parker 100 point scores -> this type of marketing may not be as effective todayBrands need to have wine quality as a baseline and more than scores to sell effectivelyCritics leveraging scores to promote themselves - some critics may give higher scores to be the top score that is used to promote the wine by retailers and wineries, increasing consumers awareness of their own brand and media channelCrowdsourced scores (e.g., CellarTracker, Delectable, Vivino)Scores are a snapshot in time and will change over timeIt gives the ability to follow individuals and learn their palateNot yet influencing the wine trade (as of early 2020)It helps bring another touchpoint of brand awareness to wineriesWine Berserkers - has had an impact on wine sales, at least a few dozen signups for mailing lists of wineries Peter has worked atLessons for wine brands: Need to build the brand, having high wine quality and high scores are the baselineFigure out the marketing channels that work for your brand and double down on themThe cost of customer acquisition is going up with the fracturing of wine criticism and the rise of crowdsourced wine scores

We already know that the 2018 vintage is a winner in Napa Valley and on April 8 James tasted a handful of wines from Dana Estates, one of the cult wine producers of the region, while interviewing winemaker Chris Cooney over Zoom. James found the wines to be some of the best he has rated so far from 2018. And the two single-vineyard wines, Helms Vineyard and Lotus Vineyard, showed incredible depth and intensity with fantastically strong yet polished, fine tannins that gave the wine form and beauty. They didn't produce a wine from Hershey Vineyard in 2018 due to some concerns of smoke from fires north of Napa that had settled in their highest vineyards in Howell Mountain.“It was a vintage with this combination of almost perfect heat and still being a cooler vintage and the wines expressed that,” said Cooney. “They are wines that have a little more energy and those secondary notes that you don't see for cabernet sauvignons. They had left layers to the wines … my favorite part about the wines are that they have such bright acidity … they are a touch more approachable than 2016 and 2017.”See the wines notes below.Dana Estates Napa Valley Lotus Vineyard 2018Dana Estates Napa Valley Rutherford Helms Vineyard 2018Dana Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Onda 2018Dana Estates Napa Valley Howell Mountain Hershey Vineyard White 2018The video interview is available at https://www.jamessuckling.com/videos/video-james-suckling-tastes-dana-estates-2018-wines/

On April 8 James spoke with Michel Rolland to discuss the quality of the 2020 vintage in Bordeaux. James is currently tasting hundreds of the 2020 wines, all of which have been flown into Hong Kong from France. This is the second year James has tasted barrel samples from Bordeaux in Hong Kong due to the COVID pandemic instead of being in France. The 2020 vintage is already looking like an excellent one and compares favorably to 2019 and 2018.“We have a reputation in Bordeaux to say the last vintage is the best one,” said Rolland by Zoom from his laboratory in Pomerol. "But we did 2018, 2019 and now 2020 … after we did our tastings in the Spring I can say it is a really great vintage. It is different than 2019 with more freshness, more tension, more balance. It's a good one. May be a bit less powerful than 2019 but it made really great wine. I think that we can call it a trilogy now [three consecutive high quality vintages: 2018, 2019 and 2020].”Watch the video at https://www.jamessuckling.com/videos/good-bordeaux-2020-michel-rolland-james-suckling-discuss-en-primeurs/ 

Dette afsnit er lavet i samarbejde med Bookbeat.dk https://www.bookbeat.dk/vin  La Biòca 2016 er venligst skænket af Propperiet https://propperiet.dk/ Så skal vi til det… Vi har snakket og henvist til dette afsnit i en uendelighed efterhånden. Missionen er klar; vi skal blive klogere på de fire anmeldere, så vi med større sikkerhed kan købe vine, der passer til vores smag. Desuden skal vi have en forståelse for de forskellige pointsystemer, som de forskellige anmeldere gør brug af og snakke lidt om de medaljer, der også tit pryder flaskehalsene. Vi smager på: Robert Parker 99 point Mulley dooker Velvelt glove 2006 https://www.vivino.com/DK/da/mollydooker-winery-velvet-glove-shiraz/w/1381424?year=2006 James Suckling 99 pointDonnhoff Rielsing 2019https://www.wine-searcher.com/find/donnhoff+riesling+trocken+nahe+germany/2019 Luca Maroni 98 pointLu’Li Appassite 2019https://www.vivino.com/DK/da/masca-del-tacco-lu-li-appassite/w/4488313 Decanter 97 points La Biòca 2016https://propperiet.dk/la-bioca/610-2016-barolo-aculei-la-bioca.html   Lyt også til håndbold-podcasten Duften af Harpiks, som Jonas laver med Niklas Landin: https://podcasts.apple.com/dk/podcast/duften-af-harpiks/id1482597703 Besøg os på Facebook og Instagram, hvor man kan vinde vin og se billeder og andet godt. https://www.facebook.com/vinforbegyndere https://www.instagram.com/vinforbegyndere Web: https://www.radioteket.dk/ Kontakt: radioteket@radioteket.dk Musik: Jonas Landin  

“The White Glove Sommelier” Show with Armin H. Müller - The White Glove Sommelier and guest Francesco Ricasoli, from one of the top wineries of Italy - Barone Ricasoli, Castello di Brolio, Tuscany Established since 1141, they have established a TOP position among the elite of Italian wines in the past 30 years. Although mainly Sangiovese, the most important grape in Chianti Classico, they also have Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and others. Winning 3 glasses with Gambero Rosso, and 97/100 by James Suckling speaks for itself. Tune in to this episode as Armin experiences the outstanding Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2017, discusses all about the winery Barone Ricasoli , their wines, the Tuscany region, during the White Glove Sommelier Show! #GourmetWeinreisen #sommelier #wine #wineindustry #vineyards #expert #tuscany #travel #WhiteGloveSommelier #SommChat #winegeek #GourmetWineTravel #BaroneRicasoli #ricasoli #winelover #educationalpost #superyachtradio #sangiovese

On February 4, 2021, James did a radio interview on KFBK radio in Sacramento, the capital of California, with Cristina Mendonsa. James dialed in from his home in Hong Kong and talked about his incredible life and ongoing projects. They also talked about his MasterClass and James revealed new trends in the wine industry as well as the surprising wine he's enjoying right now. Pour a glass of your favorite wine and take a listen. 

James Suckling is internationally regarded as one of the most influential wine critics and wine communicators. Through 40 years and over 200,000 wines, Suckling has created a stunning body of information about the wines of the world. Suckling joined Wine Spectator in 1981, when it had 500 subscribers and was run out of a garage in San Diego. He fell in love with the genre and rose to become the European Chief Editor for the publication. From his home in Hong Kong, Suckling joined me for a chat about his incredible life and ongoing projects. He also tips us on new trends and the surprising wine he's enjoying right now. Pour a class and take a listen...then check him out at JamesSuckling.com

::: deep in your mind ::: Dion speaks on behalf of his good friend James Suckling regarding his reaction to "Juice." Kap gets lost in the passage of time (again). Some stogie etymology talk. Also, other stuff. illusionecigars.com The disILLUSIONE dePROGRAM is the unofficial & unauthorized Illusione Cigars podcast, co-hosted by Kaplowitz Media of Kaplowitz Media & Dion Giolito owner of Illusione Cigars. Kaplowitz Radio. is a podcasting network consisting of the/its titular Kaplowitz Radio. podcast, the Coffee Conversations miniseries, & this disILLUSIONE dePROGRAM. It is brought to you by Kaplowitz Media. kaplowitzmedia@mail.com ::: very :::

Put down your bukakke videos, it's podcast time!We begin with an exploration into the extremely boring world of James Suckling. If you're going to be pretentious, at least make it interesting. What are you doing, man?Sarabeth has two recipes and one of them is accidentally good. That never happens.Chris did some...experiments with Justin Nava's videos and it might be an improvement? You be the judge.Cringefeast! Cute...bite? Not a ton of cute this time around.CRAB-themed Learnin' Shit is also on deck, as well as a healthy batch of Karens.Thanks so much for spending time with us. We are grateful everyday that we get to make you laugh. Let's go fucking hard in 2021.Clips from this episode:Landing In A School Of JellyfishMassive Ego DouchebagTHE DEATH WHISTLESnoring CatRomantic Video (NSFW)Walmart Karen On Karen CrimeWARAQ - "Saucy" Check out our sponsor Adam & Eve! Use code "ZEROFUN" for 50% off almost any one item, FREE gifts and FREE shipping! 2020 is a garbage year, so make your orgasms the best they've ever been! We're here to help you CUM!T-SHIRTS: http://zerofunpodcast.storenvy.com/SOC'MED':Instagram & Twitter: @zerofunpodcastFollow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/zerofunpodcastEmail us at: zerofunpodcast@gmail.com

Minha seleção dos melhores rótulos de 2020 com pitadas de enofofoca sobre os guias de vinhos (e os críticos). Tintim! Os rótulos que mais me marcaram em 2020 Dá para confiar nas pontuações de vinho? A gente está acostumado a ver por aí: pontos RP, JS, WS (respectivamente: Robert Parker, James Suckling e Wine Spectator)... The post SV#95: Guia FK 2020 appeared first on Simples Vinho.

Jeremy Hart is a Houston-area industry veteran. In this episode, we talk about career shifts, entrepreneurship, company culture, keeping a sense of humor, and....James Suckling’s alter ego? Check out some of what Jeremy is up to at inknowology.com/

Porches vs. Decks, Neopolitan pizza vs. the rest, and James Suckling vs. no one. For more Kaplowitz Media: www.Kaplowitz.xyz For more Illusione Cigars: www.IllusioneCigars.com thx

The Santa Carolina Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from vineyards in the Miraflores and Los Lingues estates in the Colchagua Valley in Chile. The Colchagua Valley is located between the Coastal Mountains and the Andes.This is a wine I found at Costco selling for $7.49 a quick check of the internet found it selling online for $9.99 to $12.99. James Suckling who is probably the world's premier wine critic gave the Santa Carolina Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 93 points. That is a very lofty score for a sub ten buck Red wine.Santa Carolina was founded in 1875 and Carolina is Carolina Íñiguez who along with her husband Luis Pereira started the winery. Santa Carolina is one of the oldest and largest wineries in Chile. The winery is listed on the Bronco Wines website (Two Buck Chuck) website, they do not seem to have an ownership claim, maybe they are the US distribution.The Colchagua Valley is an ideal place to grow grapes. It has the warm days and the much cooler nights followed by morning fog that grapevines crave. The earthquake of 2010 basically destroyed the Santa Carolina winery and they were forced to rebuild (completed in 2012). Santa Carolina took the setback to reinvigorate the winery and the full lines of wines.The vineyards are Estate vineyards which means the winery owns and operates them. Santa Carolina owns several estates being an estate winery in this instance is not as exclusive as estate vineyards in upscale wines. But it does indicate that the winery had complete control over the farming and the picking of the grapes.Plus the winery has extensive experience with the grapes year after year. Contracted vineyards can be every bit as skilled in the vineyard as estate, but the wineries do not always have the years of knowledge with those particular grapes This Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in stainless steel vats then aged "in contact" with French oak for 8 months then bottle aged for an additional 4 months. Being aged in contact with French oak does not necessarily mean oak barrels were used.An expensive Cabernet Sauvignon that was not aged in oak barrels probably would not sell well, but with value-priced Cabs, considerations need to be made. An oak barrel, especially French oak can cost one thousand dollars or more and a wine selling for $7.49 just does not have the production budget to accommodate that expense.Oak flavoring is an expected sensation for Cabernet Sauvignon wine and often techniques other than barrels (such as oak stave added to the tank) are of higher quality than the type of barrels that would fit the budget. So for inexpensive Cabernet Sauvignon if it tastes good, if it is a satisfying experience, then the winemaker did a good job. If barrels were used or not used isn't of the utmost importance. The alcohol content is 13.5%,Santa Carolina Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2018The color is garnet red with black highlights. The nose is red berries and spice, cigar box, grilled meat, lightly herbal, hints of smoke strawberry, and chocolate. This is a very good Cabernet Sauvignon nose for such an inexpensive wine.This is a very well-balanced Cabernet, there are sleek ripe fruit and some interesting rougher sensations. It tastes of raspberry, strawberry, black pepper, and spice. The mid-palate shows orange zest, plum, Nestles chocolate powder, and soft exotic spice.The tannins stay out of the way, it is rare with value-priced wine that the tannins are even worth mentioning. The acidity allows all the flavors and sensations to unfold.The SummaryI like the Santa Carolina Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2018, it sort of splits the difference between French Cabernet and California. It is sleek and lean but has tasty ripe fruit.This wine is a steal at $7.49 a bottle. It drinks WAY over its price tag.

An invitation to one of James Suckling’s soirées at his Tuscan villa is a rare treat. An influential wine critic, Suckling’s approach to choosing wine is characteristically considered. He will often theme the evening by grape, country or wine style but also might present wines based on the mood or the tastes of people attending. Correct storage of any vintage is incredibly important. The LG SIGNATURE Wine Cellar allows variable control of temperature, humidity, vibration and light levels. Find out how to become the consummate host with LG SIGNATURE in our five-part “The art of hosting” series.

XChateau is a podcast about all things wine, from vine to your glass. We tackle the business of wine and keep you up to date with new and exciting developments so you always know what goes into your bottle.In this episode, host Robert Vernick and co-host Peter Yeung begin a multi-part series about how wineries can stand out from the crowd. This first episode will focus on how to use and leverage wine scores.Stay tuned to hear Robert and Peter’s thoughts about the impact of wine scores on businesses, the importance of building your brand and how the advent of social media has changed how consumers are exposed to brands.Topics covered in today’s episode:The increase in the amount of wine brands nationally and globally.Winemakers often underestimate the necessity of branding.Analysis from Luxury Wine Marketing  of Wine Advocate 100 point scores over the last 20 years.How the amount of wine brands has lessened the impact of high scores.The expansion of wine critics and what it means for how scores are valued and used.How the relationship between consumers, scores and critics has changed.The necessity of building brand reputation.Critics as their own brand: What that means for how they score.Crowdsourced scores: How aggregate score websites are changing the industry.The increase in the cost of customer acquisition.If you loved this episode, we would love for you to subscribe, rate and review on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts. Until next time, cheers!

INTERVIEW AND TASTINGInternational wine critic and Masterclass.com Instructor James Suckling recently spoke to one of the smartest winemakers in the French region of Medoc, Emmanuel Cruse. His family have been wine merchants there for more than two centuries and he continues to improve the quality of the wines at Chateau d'Issan, the popular third growth chateau in the appellation of Margaux. He is co-owner of the estate with Jacky Lorenzetti, who also owns Chateau Pedesclaux in Pauillac and Chateau Lilian Ladouys in St.-Estephe.James Suckling had a conversation with Emmanuel and tasted 2019 barrel samples from all three estates. The most interesting comments came when he compared the 2019 to other vintages and explained how they blended the different lots to come to the final wine. Listen to the full podcast here.

O que são vinhos Pontuados? Premiados? Quem é Robert Parker?Pois é enófilos, hoje é dia de entender o que são aqueles selos que ficam na garrafa de alguns vinhos, o que significam aqueles pontos, por que e como alguns vinhos são premiados.Além disso, falamos sobre quem são os pontuadores de vinhos mais famosos: Robert Parker, James Suckling, Wine Enthusiast, Descorchados e outros!Você vai entender melhor como essas pontuações ocorrem, no que elas afetam a sua escolha e os preços dos vinhos e muito mais.Então vamos lá? Encha sua taça e vem com a gente!E lembrem-se: siga/assine nosso podcast no seu agregador de podcast preferido, e siga a gente também no Instagram (@sommbrothers), Twitter (@sommbrothers) e Facebook (facebook.com/sommbrothers/), para se manter sempre informado(a) das novidades.Já estamos disponíveis no Spotify, Deezer, Alexa, Apple e Google Podcasts, dentre vários outros agregadores de podcasts existentes. Não sabe usá-los direito? Você sempre poderá nos ouvir também em nosso site: www.sommbrothers.com.br.Um abraço e até a próxima taça!.Foto: Pinterest.Música: Days of Wines and Roses, de Frank Sinatra, trilha do filme O Advogado do Diabo.Ficha de inscrição do Concurso Mundial de Bruxelas: https://concoursmondial.com/wp-content/uploads/CMB2020-inscriptions-PT.pdf

In the second part of the James Suckling's Masterclass Office Hours Q&A, the International wine critic discusses more wine topics, answering anything and everything from glassware to decanters, to climate change and more. Have a listen and see if he covered anything you might be curious about.His full Masterclass is also available here: www.masterclass.com/jamessuckling

During this episode, two Italian wines are tasted. They are date 3/12) are a 2013 Tenuta Di Capraia Chianti Classico Riserva, purchased for $20.69, rated 94 points by Vinous and a 2017 Vivaldi Ripasso Valipolicella, purchased for $18.99, rated 91 points by James Suckling. During the episode, the differences between DOC and DOCG are discussed as well as the the process for making Valipolicella Ripasso Wines. Music from https://filmmusic.io "Night In Venice" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) .Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/winestofind)

So many wine producers in Montalcino made excellent wines in 2015. Hear from some leading Italian producers and their thoughts about the historic vintage in this new podcast. Winemakers in Montalcino were never better prepared to produce outstanding wines in a year like 2015 with their exactness in their vineyards and cellars from fine-tuned canopy management and crop thinning to optical sorting and soft fermentations. Featuring interviews with:Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi - Winemaker & President, Frescobaldi groupRoberto Giannelli - Winemaker & Owner, San FilippoGiacomo Neri - Winemaker & Owner, Casanova di Neri Enrico Viglierchio - General Manager, Banfi Marco Bacci - Winemaker & Owner, RenieriTo read the full report, click here.To watch the video version, click here.

Pour ce 10ème épisode, nous te faisons voyager dans un monde magique: celui des petites bulles fines, celui qui te rend rêveur après quelques coupes, oui du champagne ! Dans cet épisode passionné et passionnant, nous recevons Fiona et Jean-Michel qui nous racontent une très belle histoire: la création de leur propre marque de champagne.  Fiona, passionnée des vins, a passé la plupart de son temps jusqu’à maintenant à raconter l’histoire des marques au service de maisons prestigieuses à travers le monde. Ambassadrice de marque pour Chateau Guiraud aux US, un Sauternes et le tout premier grand cru classé à recevoir la certification « Agriculture Biologique » en 2011, elle a continué pour la famille Marnier-Lapostolle (oui, ceux qui font flamber vos crêpes, le Grand Marnier!) avec un passage dans les incroyables vignes chiliennes. Ce n’est que récemment qu’elle a basculé dans le champagne au service de Jeeper, une petite maison de champagne, toujours aux US. Et comme si tout cela n’était pas déjà suffisant, Fiona a également fait un passage en sommellerie étoilée à St Tropez et Lyon où elle a été chef sommelière à la Cour des Loges.  De son côté, Jean-Michel évolue dans le marketing digital avec une première expérience chez Rakuten (feu Price Minister) où il a fait ses armes. Inspiré par son père entrepreneur, il monte très vite une première boite: Devis Contact, qui fait de la mise en relations dans l’amélioration de l’habitat, un échec riche d’enseignements pour lui. Puis Jean-Michel enchaine dans la formation en tant que professeur dans son ancienne école et continue dans le consulting pour Tata Consulting.  C’est un beau matin lorsque Jean-Michel demande à Fiona ce qu’elle voudrait faire sans aucune limite, qu’elle lui parle de cette idée folle de vouloir un jour créer sa propre marque de champagne. Après avoir passée tant de temps à raconter l’histoire de belles maisons, Fiona souhaite enfin pouvoir raconter la sienne: celle de sa marque Rendez-Vous. A travers ce projet très ambitieux, Fiona et Jean-Michel ont à coeur de remettre sur le devant de la scène les petits vignerons champenois, ceux qui produisent en respect avec le sol et la vigne un champagne artisanal trop souvent caché par les grandes maisons et leur puissant marketing. Ils nous font faire un petit tour guidé de la Champagne pour mieux comprendre les enjeux d’un paysage tout en mosaïque entre diktat des grandes maisons, petits producteurs qui vendent toute ou une partie de leurs raisins, des assemblages opaques aux ajouts douteux et la nécessité de faire connaitre les « grower champagnes ».  Décomplexer et rendre accessible cet univers de la Champagne trop longtemps forgé et ritualisé par le marketing des grandes marques avec les associations champagne-caviar-jet privé, ce sont les principaux objectifs que se sont fixés Fiona et Jean-Michel pour toucher la génération des millenials avec une communication plus adaptée et une vente 100% en ligne d’un champagne qui se veut résolument « nature ». Ils s’associent avec un vigneron champenois dont ils vont importer les bouteilles pour un lancement aux US dans un premier temps avec un véritable défi logistique pour l’importation.  Lancement de Rendez-Vous en mars, nous avons évidemment négocié un petit code promo pour nos fidèles auditeurs que nous ferons gagner à quelques « happy fews » au moment du lancement ;) ! D’ici là, on trinque déjà à ce beau projet!  Dans cet épisode, on a notamment fait référence à :  • Le livre Cultivez votre intelligence émotionnelle dans la collection Les cahiers de la Harvard Business Review recommandé par Fiona • La biographie de Steve Jobs par Walter Isaacson recommandé par Jean-Michel • Dans vos verres, Jean-Michel vous recommande le champagne Fleury, exemplaire en biodynamie selon la revue du vin de France et Fiona vous conseille le Viñedo Chadwick 2014, un cabernet sauvignon qui a obtenu le très rare score des 100 points du fameux critique James Suckling qui conseille d'ailleurs de l'ouvrir en 2020, avis aux amateurs... • Et bien sur leur Instagram pour suivre de près leur lancement.  Pour interagir avec nous et nous donner du feedback, découvrir les coulisses de nos enregistrements, rejoins-nous sur :  Instagram Facebook Si tu adores déjà ce podcast, n'hésite pas à le partager autour de toi et nous laisser une bonne note avec un petit commentaire sympa sur Apple Podcast, c'est super motivant pour nous :) Des suggestions, envie de nous écrire une folle déclaration, ou un futur invité à nous recommander ? On a hâte de te lire sur horsdesfrontieres@gmail.com

The StoryThe Chateau Le Grand Moulin Bordeaux 2016 is a blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Malbec from the Estate vineyard in the Blaye Cotes de Bordeaux AOP. This is wine available at Costco for $7.99, I don't think this is a Costco exclusive, on-line retailers seem to sell the same wine for almost twice as much.Chateau Le Grand is a family-owned vineyard and winery founded over 100 years ago.  Blaye AOP is the northern-most growing region in Bordeaux's Right Bank (the big names like Pomerol are located further south).  Merlot is the main grape, but Blaye also produces White wines and Sparkling wine. This is the region that produces everyday wines that is a step up from the value-priced wines.50% of the wines from Bordeaux sell for under $20, which always surprised me since I equated Bordeaux with Napa Valley and not much is value-priced in Napa. The French have a tradition of drinking wine with their meals, so it makes sense that Bordeaux offers reasonably priced wines. Actually every growing region in France, other than Champagne, produces affordable wines. Sometimes the marketing makes it seem like they specialize in high-end wines, but that isn't the case.In Bordeaux, the simple (too simple) explanation is the Left Bank grows Cabernet Sauvignon and the Right Bank farms Merlot, but it is more complicated than that. The soil types change from area to area as do the growing conditions, but most of those details are not as important with value-priced wine. The collectors argue over which year is a good year and which Grand Cru excelled that year. With affordable Bordeaux, a good producer with a quality vineyard is what is important.The Chateau Le Grand Moulin cold maceration before fermentation. Cold Maceration is where they refrigerate the grapes for a few days, this technique helps concentrate the flavors and the color of the wine. After fermentation, this Red blend was aged in cement vats. Cement vats (they are lined to keep the actual cement away from the wine) are thick enough that they insulate the wine from temperature and humidity changes. Wine loves stable aging conditions and cement offers protection that stainless steel tanks and wood barrels can't.Even though this is an 8 buck Red blend the Chateau Le Grand 2016 has received 89 and 90 points from James Suckling and Wine Enthusiast, respectively. While wine points do not mean you will actually like the wine they do indicate that acknowledge professions deemed this a quality- made Bordeaux Red wine. The alcohol content is 13.5%.Bordeaux Tasting NotesThe color is a dark, barely see-thru black cherry red. The nose is blackberry, baking spice, black pepper, tea, dark chocolate, raspberry, and a blast of sweet blueberry. This is a well-balanced wine, it has tannins if you are used to California value-priced wines you might have forgotten how tannins used to be. It tastes of a mix of blackberry, pepper, soft plum, and spice. The mid-palate brings orange zest and dried strawberry pieces, a light hint of cream, and Nestlt Quick powder. This is a French Red blend, it is a different style than California and Washington State Red blends, you would never call this a juicy wine. What it lacks in fruit flavor it makes up for with structure, though it does have good flavor. The tannins are there, they make their presence known, but they do not bite. The acidity gives this Red nice length. The finish is fairly full and of reasonable length.The Summary * I like this wine, it resets my palate.

Episode Notes Episode 8 – That Bojo Show This episode is in honor of the passing of the Pope of Beaujolais – the legendary Georges Dubeouf. No one has done more than Georges to get this great wine to us and he will be missed. Rest in peace with a never-ending glass of Gamay Georges! So, of course, we are drinking Beaujolais. The two wines on the show are 2017 Georges Dubeouf Beaujolais and 2013 Jean Foillard “Cote du Py” Morgon. There is a lot packed into this episode about Beaujolais. From a history of Georges Dubeouf to understanding Beaujolais Nouveau to parsing out what makes a Cru, the guys really take you on a tour of the region. They also stress how important it is to understand importers, focusing on the two that bring these wines to the United States – Quintessential and Kermit Lynch. Get to know your importers and you will discover great wines. Pete also takes James Suckling to task again. Mr. Suckling, to save you some time, this show makes almost no money and Pete doesn’t have any either, so a sternly worded letter will suffice. But, Pete and VinoMike stand by their assertion that the 2017 Beaujolais on the show is NOT full-bodied. Finally, there is an opportunity to meet VinoMike in person on January 26, 2020, by supporting Wine on Wheels. This tasting takes place at RPM on the Water and features some of the best wine talents in Chicago. Great wine, amazing food, incredible cause. Get your tickets for the event here and make sure to say hi to Mike! As a reminder, Pete and Mike do not accept advertising dollars from wineries or wine wholesalers. They purchase the bottles they taste on the show. These are not paid endorsements. They could use the money, so this integrity thing sucks. Thank you for listening to That Wine Pod! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast app. And remember… Life’s short. Drink what you like tonight! Follow That Wine Pod: Instagram @ThatWinePod Twitter @ThatWinePod Facebook.com/ThatWinePod Connect with VinoMike & Pete: Instagram @VinoMike Instagram @FatManStories Facebook.com/fatmanstories Music from https://filmmusic.io "Protofunk" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) SUPPORT That Wine Pod Please subscribe on your favorite podcast app and share it with your friends or enemies, we’ll take any listeners we can. Also, please rate & review That Wine Pod on Apple Podcasts. Spread the wine love! That Wine Pod is a production of Paragon Media. Copyright 2019 – All Rights Reserved --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Episode Notes Episode 6 – Tariffs, Top 100s, and a Wild Year in Wine This episode’s wine is Wine Enthusiast’s #1 Wine of 2019 – Nino Franco “Rustico” Prosecco Superiore DOCG! 2019 was a wild year in wine. From fires to tariffs to industry consolidation to a slew of Top 100 lists, there was no shortage of topics for Pete and VinoMike to cover. The duo kicks off this special year-end review with a look at the Top 100 lists from Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, and James Suckling. There is always a huge variation and 2019 was no different. The biggest story right now – tariffs. Your hosts throw in their two cents on the controversy. If you would like to make your feelings known to the trade representative, submit it here. The rest of the episode is a roundup of the other big stories of the year. Also, Pete and Mike talk about their favorite wines of 2019. VinoMike couldn’t remember the Champagne’s name, but it is Ulysse Collin. Pete’s selection of Diamonds in Space 2016 is gone, but you can check out other Route 101 wines here. Happy New Year from That Wine Pod! As a reminder, Pete and Mike do not accept advertising dollars from wineries or wine wholesalers. They purchase the bottles they taste on the show. These are not paid endorsements. They could use the money, so this integrity thing sucks. Thank you for listening to That Wine Pod! Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast app. And remember… Life’s short. Drink what you like tonight! Follow That Wine Pod: Instagram @ThatWinePod Twitter @ThatWinePod Facebook.com/ThatWinePod Connect with VinoMike & Pete: Instagram @VinoMike Instagram @FatManStories Facebook.com/fatmanstories Music from https://filmmusic.io "Protofunk" by Kevin MacLeod (https://incompetech.com) License: CC BY (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) SUPPORT That Wine Pod Please subscribe on your favorite podcast app and share it with your friends or enemies, we’ll take any listeners we can. Also, please rate & review That Wine Pod on Apple Podcasts. Spread the wine love! That Wine Pod is a production of Paragon Media. Copyright 2019 – All Rights Reserved --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Hear from the winery owners and winemakers who made our recent Great Wines of Italy Asia events the most successful ever. There were more than 150 premium Italian producers who poured their Italian wines for wine lovers and trade to taste across Phuket, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Beijing.Featuring interviews with:JULIA WALCH - Elena WalchKETI MAZZI - Valle Reale FRANCESCO CARLETTI - Poliziano IRENE DAL CANTO - FantiPATRICK LACHAPÈLE - OrnellaiaCLARA GENTILI - Fattoria Le Pupille DANIEL FABBRO - San PolinoPAOLO CLEMENTE - SordoGIOIA CRESTI - Carpineta Fontalpino / GiodoANNABELLA PASCALE - Tenuta Di ArtiminoRICCARDO MAZZOTTI - GaglioleILARIA PETITTO - DonnachiaraDONATELLA CINELLI - ColombiniTo see the full report, click here.To watch the video version, click here.

The StoryThe Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay 2017 is 98% Chardonnay and 2% Gewürztraminer sourced from Wente estate vineyards in the Livermore Valley AVA located across the Bay from San Fransico in the northern section of the Central Coast AVA. Wente Vineyards started in the 1880s and has been in continuous operation since then (they didn't close during Prohibition). Wente is one of the cornerstones of American winemaking, their work in the vineyards developing hardy disease-resistant grape clones is still the basis for most vineyards. The Wente Chardonnay clones (there are more than one) comprises 80% of all Chardonnay grown in California. I have had a Bordeaux winemaker tell me that they use the Wente Cabernet Sauvignon clone for their high-end Bordeaux blends. He said it was a healthier vine and Wente originally got their Cabernet vines from Bordeaux anyway. Livermore Valley AVA is located on the east side of the San Fransico Bay and is unique because the valley runs east-west, most valleys in the wine regions run north-south. Livermore Valley gets the full benefits of the cool breezes off the Bay and the cooling morning fog (so that's where the name comes from).Wente is the first California winery to sell wine with Chardonnay on the label (back in the 1930s). The Morning Fog uses several Wente Chardonnay clones and is fermented in 50% neutral American oak and 50% in stainless steel vats. The neutral oak portion of the Chardonnay was aged "on lees" for 5 months, the stainless steel parcel was also aged for 5 months. 50% of this portion aged "on lees" and the 50% with the lees removed. Lees are the dead, spent yeast and grape residue bits, "on lees" means those bits are left in with the aging wine. They add texture and a salty nutty flavor and when stirred can bring a creamy mouth-feel, the oak barrel Chardonnay was stirred. Neutral oak does not add much if any flavor to the wine, but brings a different character to the Chardonnay since wood barrels allow for a tiny bit of oxygen to get to the wine and stainless steel does not. There is a noticeable difference in wine aged in barrel, even neutral barrel than wine aged in stainless steel. This Chardonnay should not have a great deal of oak influence, but it went through a very precise and detailed winemaking technique. The alcohol content is 13.5%  And if your interested James Suckling scored this Chardonnay 91 Points.The Tasting NotesThe color is a clean, clear, wheat yellow. The nose is elegant, it is not just a rush of ripe fruit and citrus, there is honey, brown butter, lemon curd, green apple, lime, Anjou pear, light spice, and French Vanilla, all with a floral edge. This is a bright, alive Chardonnay, crisp and lean, with a pleasing flavor. It starts with lemon cream, tart apple, vanilla, soft, and exotic spice. The mid-palate brings juicy peach mixed with pear, melon, and tart, unsweetened pineapple. The mouth-feel allows the flavors to engage your palate and the acidity is very well-balanced. The finish is full and long.The Summary I have long been a fan of the Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay, as a matter of fact, this is a Chardonnay that I compare all other Chardonnay. I think I found it for around $12 and it is rare that I find an expensive Chardonnay that I like better. It is really well-made and there is a lot of flavor happening in your glass. In France "terrior" is everything. That is the sense of place of the grapes in the vineyard and the winemakers' knowledge of these grapes that have been passed down over the generations. Wente Vineyards has "terroir" in spades, they created the grape clones and have winemaking knowledge passed down for 5 generations, all with 130 something years of knowing their vineyards and climate. Wente is legit and they have seriously good knowledge in producing Chardonnay (other grapes and wines, too).

Hear what some of the attending producers as well as James Suckling had to say about wines in Asia at Great Wines of the World Asia. The tour was another roaring success. There were more than 5,000 attendees at the three events in total, and more than 150 wineries participating in the three cities – Seoul, Hong Kong and Beijing.Featuring interviews with:James SucklingElodie Chabot - Los Vascos / Château Duhart-Milon Christian Wylie - Bodega GarzónEduard Moix - Château Bélair-Monange / Château La Fleur-PetrusAshley Bell - Domaine Drouhin OregonPierre Courdurié - Château Croix de LabrieWill Harlan - Promontory Romain Iltis - Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey / Château FaugèresPierFilippo Abbruzzese - Valdicava Eduardo Chadwick - Viñedo Chadwick / SeñaTo see the full report, click here.To watch the video version, click here.

From the Villa Rene Lalique tasting room James Suckling, Contributing Editor Jack Suckling and Editor Nick Stock summarize their week-long trip through #Alsace during which they tasted more than 500 wines. Among many things, they discuss the rise of pinot noir in Alsace and the sweet-versus-dry conundrum in light of rising global temperatures.To read the full report and notes, and watch the video version, click here. 

This summer James Suckling and his tasting team went to Spain where they tasted more than 2,100 wines while in Rioja at the Hotel Viura. It was a great experience and the many excellent wines, meetings and tastings with winemakers from around Spain just reaffirmed that the country is making some of the most drinkable and characterful wines in the world at the moment. Hear what they had to say about the trip in this podcast with Editor Nick Stock and James Suckling.To see all the notes and scores, click here.

Earlier this year all eyes were on Hong Kong for the 2018 en primeur. As the only wine event in Asia to bring these barrel samples from France (jet-freighted overnight to guarantee quality), attendees now understand the unique value of this event. But what did producers themselves have to say about the 2018 vintage? Listen to the podcast to find out.Featuring interviews with:James SucklingJean-Paul Bignon - Château Talbot Marielle Cazaux - Château La ConseillanteEmmanuel Cruse - Château d'Issan Lorenzo Pasquini - Château Giscours, Château du Tertre, CaiarossaFrédéric Faye - Château Figeac Sophie Schÿler - Château KirwanAdrien Bernard - Domaine de ChevalierCaroline Decoster - Château Fleur Cardinale Pierre Courdurié - Château Croix de Labrie ... and many moreTo watch the video version, click here.

From Hong Kong to Beijing, this year's Great Wines of the Andes events, presented by JamesSuckling.com, were a standout success. Attendance was double that of last year and attending producers from Argentina, Chile and Uruguay made connections that no other event makes possible. Hear what they had to say in this exclusive podcast.Featuring interviews with:James SucklingJack SucklingPhilippe Rolet - Bodegas CaroCharles de Bournet - Clos ApaltaManuel Louzada Achaval-FerrerPatricia Ortiz - TapizGaston Williams - VikTo watch the video version, click here.

During the finale of the #realaussiewine road trip, James and senior editor Nick Stock sum up their journey and what they've learned during their #realaussiewine adventure.To watch the video version, click here. 

Chris Iannetta is a catcher for THE Colorado Rockies. Who, along with co-founder and fellow MLB star Vernon Wells, founded JACK wine in 2012. Named for their children: Jayce, Ashlyn, Christian, and Kylie, the name is a tribute to their shared love of family. Their Napa Valley produced wines are already receiving high marks from legendary reviewers like Robert Parker and James Suckling.