Podcasts about Syrah

In today's episode, we put a bow on Season 6 and 2025 with some Boxing Day Bubbles while we recap our year. Happy New Year and #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing Wines featured this episode:NV Cantina Zaccagnini Brut Blanc de Blancs ($21 at various retailers)

How did one Viognier go from the brink of extinction to being planted around the world? Why is the Mistral one of the most miserable experiences for people, yet a saviour for Rhône vineyards? Why is working with bush vines so much harder than trellised vineyards? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Matt Walls, author of the terrific new book The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to the Rhone Valley. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Matt Walls' terrific new book, The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to the Rhone Valley. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights What are the famous galets roulés of Châteauneuf du Pape and what is it like to experience them in person? How do the galets affect vineyard work and vine training? What is the Mistral wind and why is it both miserable for people and essential for vineyard health? Why is Hermitage Hill considered one of the clearest visual explanations of terroir anywhere in France? What does tasting Hermitage at the top of the hill reveal about the emotional connection to place and wine? How does whole bunch fermentation change the aroma, texture, and alcohol level of Syrah in the northern Rhône? How close did Viognier come to extinction after World War II, and who was responsible for saving it in Condrieu? What makes Viognier from Condrieu feel different than versions grown in warmer regions? How did Château Rayas redefine Châteauneuf-du-Pape? Why did the extreme heat of the 2022 vintage affect Rhône wines? Why is Tavel better understood as a pale red rather than a modern Rosé?   Key Takeaways How did one Viognier go from the brink of extinction to being planted around the world? Very close. So there was about 6 or 7 hectares left... about the size of three football pitches. That's it. That was the only place in the world. I mean, that's where it comes from. In the 1960s and after the Second World War, a lot of the vineyards died. People couldn't fetch high prices for wine, so quantity was more important than quality. So people were just planting on the flat, basically where it was easy to farm instead of on the slopes of Condrieu, which are very difficult to grow on. So it got pretty much abandoned. It was down to one man whose name was Georges Vernay from Domaine Georges Vernay, which still exists today, still makes excellent wines. And he rallied the local winemakers. He believed in the grape. He knew how good it could be, and he encouraged people to replant, to rework the vineyards and, and saved the grape. You find it all around the world. And so if it wasn't for Georges back in the 60s, deciding, no, I want to save this variety, maybe we wouldn't have it at all, which would be terrible. Why is the Mistral one of the most miserable experiences for people, yet a saviour for Rhône vineyards? The mistral is a very strong north wind. It whistles down the valley. It can be extremely boisterous. It's cold north wind. if it's quite a hot day, it's never nice. It's always horrible. Even on a hot day. When it blows hard, it can be quite difficult to stand up in a vineyard. It's an amazing phenomenon. It's cold and it's really dry. So often when it does rain in the southern Rhône and in the northern Rhône, you risk getting vineyard diseases. But the mistral often it blows after it rains. So it will dry out the vineyards. It's like a natural disinfectant. it means that you can keep your grapes hanging on the vine for longer. So it is a huge benefit. Why is working with bush vines so much harder than trellised vineyards? You hear about these galets roulés, these rounded stones, but when you see them, just in the vineyards for as far as the eye can see, they're very striking to see and difficult to walk on. you can quite easily turn your ankle if you're not careful with what you're doing. So if you're in a vineyard of galets, what you'll see is these bush vines. That's the most common way of training vines in the southern Rhône, particularly Châteauneuf-du-Pape. You do see a bit of trellising, but with Grenache, you don't have to… they're naturally self-supporting. With Syrah, for example, you do have to train it on wires because it just grows like mad, and otherwise it would just be flopping around all over the floor. And you need to lift up the foliage in order to get it exposed to the sun and get the grapes off the ground. Grenache doesn't grow in such an exuberant fashion. It grows a little bit more slowly, and the trunks get a little bit thicker. But they're much harder to work as well. So, the thing about those bush vines is that you have to tend them in a 360 degree fashion rather than trellis vines, which you kind of have to work on both sides, but without kind of working around it 360 degrees. But the galets… they are troublesome and they are difficult to move and they take a lot of strength. So, yeah, I wouldn't like to work on them personally. That takes a lot of work.   About Matt Walls Matt Walls is an award-winning freelance wine writer, author and consultant who contributes to various UK and international publications such as Club Oenologique and Decanter, where he is a contributing editor. He also judges wine and food competitions, develops wine apps and presents trade and consumer tastings. Matt is interested in all areas of wine, but specialises in the Rhône Valley – he is Regional Chair for the Rhône at the Decanter World Wine Awards.           To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/369.

Harmonizar vinhos com o peru de Natal é um dos pontos-chave da ceia. A carne da ave, quando bem preparada, apresenta suculência, delicadeza aromática e leve tendência ao doce, o que favorece vinhos de média estrutura, com taninos bem resolvidos e boa acidez. Estilos como Pinot Noir do Velho Mundo, tintos elegantes do Douro, Rioja, Navarra ou opções do norte da Itália costumam funcionar muito bem quando o protagonismo está apenas no peru.O desafio cresce com os acompanhamentos tradicionais como frutas, castanhas, farofas e molhos adocicados que pedem vinhos mais macios e generosos. Nesse contexto, tintos do Novo Mundo (Malbec, Syrah, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir) e brancos mais untuosos, como Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Gris e Gewurztraminer, tendem a oferecer melhor equilíbrio. O vídeo explica como ajustar essas escolhas para que o vinho acompanhe toda a ceia com harmonia.✅ Neste vídeo, você vai aprender:

Who's the best TV priest? Should you name your kid after a saint? And what pilgrimage sites are on our bucket list? These are just a few of the questions Zac, Ashley and “Jesuitical” producer Sebastian Gomes tackle in our end-of-year mailbag episode! Thanks to all the listeners who sent in questions for the hosts—we love hearing what's on your minds. So don't hesitate to reach out to jesuitical@americamedia.org or on our Facebook page to let us know what you'd like us to discuss on the show.  Merry Christmas, and we'll see you in 2026! What's on tap? Syrah from the Northern Rhone Valley You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melissa Galliani and Dan Berger. Dan Berger takes some time to explain Gamay Beaujolais today on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell. Later in the show, Barry Herbst from Bottle Barn will be in, to talk about sparkling wines they have in the store for the holidays. That portion of the show has its own podcast episode, right here. Dan has brought a Beaujolais from 2023 from a California winemaker who moved to France. He got tired of trying to make European style wines in California. Johnathan Pey made Pinot Noir in Marin County and made a Cabernet in Napa called Textbook. He decided to make a break from California and move to France. This wine is his French production, Domaine Johnathan Pey. Beaujolais ain’t no “Boo-jo-lay” Johnathan Pey bought two cru vineyards in Beaujolais. Gamay Noir au jus blanc is the full French name of the grape. Beaujolais is generally an unpretentions wine, easy to drink and not expensive. Pey wanted to apply modern winemaking techniques to grapes from the old plantation. He bought the vineyard about five or six years ago and has been tending the vines personally. Dan says this vintage is starting to show depth and intensity above the average for Beaujolais. 13% alcohol. The color is intense and suggests a highter ABV but that’s not Beaujolais. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference!  Usually, Beaujolais is just to open and drink. But some of the Cru Beaujolais will benefit from a couple of years in the bottle. John found that the other producers in France were young, and he is teaching them California techniques that are ahead of the game. This wine is full of fruit, but also an intensity, a Syrah-like aftertaste. Dan thinks maybe this wine will age in two days once opened. “Way more interesting than a typical Beaujolais.” It doesn’t have any oak, there was no barrel aging.

Which French wine region banned flying saucers from landing in its vineyards and why is the rule still there? How did the devastating February 1956 frost reshape the southern Rhône into the vineyard landscape we know today? What sets the northern Rhone apart from the south in terms of grapes and winemaking style? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Matt Walls, author of The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to the Rhone Valley. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Matt Walls' terrific new book, The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to the Rhone Valley. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights How did a family picnic become a memorable introduction to the northern Rhone? How did a visit to a small producer in Crozes Hermitage turn into an unforgettable travel mishap? Why does Châteauneuf du Pape have a rule specifically forbidding the landing of flying saucers in vineyards? How is the Rhone Valley laid out geographically and what distinguishes the northern Rhone from the southern Rhone? How much wine does the Rhone produce each year compared to other regions in France? What was the moment that made Matt fall in love with Hermitage wines? What was it like for Matt to move his family from London to a village near Avignon? How does the culture of Rhone winemakers differ from regions like Bordeaux or Champagne? What practical advice does Matt have for getting the most out of visits to Rhone wineries? What makes The Smart Traveler's Wine Guide to the Rhone Valley different from other wine books? What unexpected part of his research led Matt to fall in love with Lyon?   Key Takeaways Within the Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the cahiers des charges, which is basically the rulebook on how you're allowed to make wine within the appellation, has a statement that says, "Winemakers may not use their vineyards to land flying saucers." This was put in in the 1960s, when there was a big panic about flying saucers and little green men. I think it's easier just to leave it there than to go through the whole rigmarole for getting it removed. The devastating February 1956 frost was a turning point in how people lived, worked, and farmed in the southern Rhone. Before that point, it was very much a kind of polycultural land. Individual estates would have olives, grapevines, fig trees, carrots, wheat, and so it was a mixed agriculture. But after 1956, this really wiped out the olive trees. People needed something that would give them a crop immediately in order for them to survive and chose grapevines. One of the big differences between the northern Rhone and the southern Rhone is that the northern Rhone, they only use one red grape variety, which is Syrah. In the south, they have a whole smorgasbord of different grape varieties and the culture there is to blend. Also they have quite a single-vineyard way of working. The estates tend to be very small in the northern Rhone compared to the southern Rhone.   About Matt Walls Matt Walls is an award-winning freelance wine writer, author and consultant who contributes to various UK and international publications such as Club Oenologique and Decanter, where he is a contributing editor. He also judges wine and food competitions, develops wine apps and presents trade and consumer tastings. Matt is interested in all areas of wine, but specialises in the Rhône Valley – he is Regional Chair for the Rhône at the Decanter World Wine Awards.           To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/368.

Encontrar o vinho ideal para celebrar o Natal pode ser um desafio — especialmente com tantas opções disponíveis. Neste vídeo, apresentamos 5 estilos de vinhos para o Natal, explicando quando usar cada um deles e como harmonizar com pratos típicos das festas de fim de ano. Um guia direto, prático e pensado para quem deseja servir bem e brindar melhor.Ao longo do vídeo, mostramos como escolher rótulos para aperitivos, queijos, massas, aves, carnes vermelhas e sobremesas. Também revelamos por que alguns estilos, como os espumantes Brut, funcionam praticamente em qualquer momento da ceia.Se você quer aprender a montar combinações simples, acertar nas compras e surpreender a família ou os amigos, este mini-guia é para você.Você vai descobrir:• quais vinhos brancos e rosés funcionam melhor na abertura da noite• quando escolher tintos leves, médios ou mais encorpados• como pensar a harmonização a partir do molho, gordura e textura• o estilo perfeito para acompanhar panettones e sobremesas• por que os espumantes brut são curingas indispensáveis no Natal✨ TÓPICOS DO VÍDEO•

Poursuite du périple en partenariat avec les Côtes-du-Rhône. Cette région n'a définitivement pas fini de me surprendre et de m'enthousiasmer. Aujourd'hui, cap sur Lirac, village situé à 25 minutes de route au nord-ouest d'Avignon. L'appellation fut reconnue dès 1947. On est ici dans le coeur viticole historique de la région avec notamment le village de Roquemaure, situé sur l'aire d'appellation, qui fut un port de premier plan d'où les bateaux partaient chargés de vin. Je vous propose de découvrir en profondeur cette appellation avec deux de ces figures emblématiques : Grégory Sergent du Clos du Jas, vignoble confidentiel et très recherché. Et François Miquel de la Maison Ogier. Je reviens de cet enregistrement avec un regard neuf sur l'appellation et j'espère sincèrement que cet épisode aura le même effet sur vous.Réalisation : Romain BeckerEnregistrement : Romain BeckerPost-production : Emmanuel NappeyMusique originale : Emmanuel DoréGraphismes : ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Léna Mazilu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On se retrouve très vite pour de nouvelles aventures viticoles. D'ici-là éclatez-vous et buvez bon !Le Bon Grain de l'Ivresse, le podcast vin----------------------------------------------------------Retrouvez les dernières infos sur Instagram et FacebookContactez-nous par mailVisitez le site internet du Bon GrainHébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

In today's episode, we have author, Danielle Frank, who has just released her new book, "A Wine Lover's Guide to Parenting: The Fine Art of Wine and Whine Management." One requires a corkscrew, the other requires patience but both can stain your carpets, as she explains. This is a very entertaining episode! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing "A Wine Lover's Guide to Parenting: The Fine Art of Wine and Whine Management" by Danielle Frank is now available on Amazon. Go right now (like now!) and grab your copy...or three... or more!Wines featured this episode: 2023 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc ($39 at Pilgrim's Market)

Tonight, we are tasting and learning about the red wine grape Petite Sirah.In the past, I thought Petite Sirah must be just a small grape variety of Syrah. I was wrong. Well then, what is it?The grape is also known as Durif, that is a cross between Syrah and Peloursin. The grape has thick skins which give the wine a dark color. Today California has about 12,000 acres planted to Petite Sirah, making it the 6th most planted red variety. California is the main location where the grape is grown. You will also find some in Australia, but very little remains in Europe. Petite Sirah is known for having lots of fruit flavor, full-bodied, high tannins, and high alcohol. Acid is normally medium. Cooler climates will give you similar characteristics as Syrah such as pepper, cured meat, and violets. I read the grape was many times misidentified before DNA testing showed what it really was. Pairs with tomato-based dishes. Also pairs well with sharp cheddars, pecorino, or Parmigiano Reggiano. Tonight, we are enjoying: 2021 Criss Cross Wines Petite Sirah. I purchased this wine from a local wine store Gateway Market for $15.99. Aged in French and American Oak. 99.5% Petite Sirah, 0.5% other varietals. Comes from Clarksburg, California. 4.4 g/L residual sugar and has a 3.89 pH. Aromas of Black plum, cassis, chicory, spice. Flavors of black strawberry, raspberry, cinnamon, blood orange zest, mineral, bittersweet chocolate, and silky tannins. It received a 92 rating and a “best buy rating” from the Wine Enthusiast. 2021 Foppiano Estate Grown Petite Sirah. The wine comes from the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County. I purchased the wine at Gateway Market for $24.99. It received a 91 rating from the Wine Enthusiast. They say Juicy blackberries and black cherries are lightly accented by mint and chocolate. It is a full-bodied dark-colored wine. Tannins merge with fruit to produce a well-balanced wine. We really enjoyed both of these wines. If you like a dark, fruit-forward, earthy, spicy wine – you should give these wines a try. Both wines received very good scores from the Wine Enthusiast, and we both agreed and gave both wines a 4-rating. Next week, we are having a Bosnian wine.

In today's episode, it's Black Friday! There are some surprises in this episode that really caught us off guard, too! A White Port, Tawny Port, a Port STYLE wine and the first taste of the 2025 vintage!#HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing Wines featured this episode: Dow's Fine White Porto ($16 at Fred Meyer) Taylor Fladgate 10 Year Old Tawny Porto ($32 at Fred Meyer)2002 Leonesse Cellars Limited Bottling Cinsault Port (N/A)2025 Georges Dubeuf Beaujolais Nouveau ($21 at Fred Meyer) A HUGE thanks to our sponsors:  Naked Wines and Eternal Wine!Naked Wines: Straight from the winemaker right to your door, premium wine without the premium pricing is what Naked Wines is all about. Save big on wines from the world's best winemakers! Visit https://us.nakedwines.com/winetimefridays to get $100 off your first 6 pack case. With Naked Wines, discovering new wines is truly risk-free!Eternal Wine: Are you a Rhone Ranger or just really love Syrah? Then you need to check out Eternal Wine! Their focus is on single vineyard Rhone valley wines in Washington State. Also check out their Drink Washington State brand of approachable wines! Visit https://eternalwine.com for more information or simply call 509-240-6258. Eternal Wine: Drink Wine, Be Happy.The Seasons of Coeur d'Alene Wine Word of the Week - Fortified Fortified wine is wine to which a neutral, high-proof grape spirit has been added, usually during or after fermentation. This process increases the alcohol content and, in the case of Port, leaves the wine sweet by stopping the yeast from consuming all the sugar.Seasons of Coeur d'Alene: Experience the best of Coeur d'Alene's culinary scene at Seasons, where farm-to-table cuisine meets elegant ambiance. Don't miss their Wine Down Wednesday where all bottled wines are 50% off! Visit https://www.seasonsofcda.com/ for more information or call 208-664-8008 Mentions: CDA Gourmet, J. Bookwalter, Liberty Lake Wine Cellars, Cinder, Rivaura, Daniel Bentley, Danielle Frank, David Hoffman, Want an amazing gift for that hard to buy for wine lover in your life that also has kids? "A Wine Lover's Guide to Parenting: The Fine Art of Wine and Whine Management" by Danielle Frank is now available on Amazon. Some wines we've enjoyed this week: Canoe Ridge Merlot, L'Orangeraie Syrah, Kestrel Vintners Super Yakima, Rocky Pond 11 Dams, and Koenig Vineyards Chardonnay.© 2025 Wine Time Fridays - All Rights Reserve

Quality is rising, challenges are mounting, and interest in Canadian wine has never been higher. In this episode, host Billy sits down with Okanagan-based Master of Wine Geoff Moss to explore the regions, grapes, and decisions shaping Canadian wine today.Geoff shares how he moved from political science into winemaking, how production experience informs his work in branding and DTC strategy, and why his négociant label Søren Wines serves as a live test case for the advice he gives wineries. We dig into the styles Canada does best, from Syrah and Cabernet Franc to Chardonnay and Riesling, and how recent extreme winter freezes (including 2024) are reshaping what gets planted in BC.We also look at the realities behind bulk wine logistics, export limitations, and the economic pressures facing premium Canadian producers in a soft global market.In this episode, you'll learnHow Geoff Moss MW built a career across production, branding, and direct-to-consumer work.Why the Okanagan is both diverse and climate-challenged, with styles ranging from cool-climate Pinot to warm-climate Syrah.How recent deep freezes devastated BC's vineyards, particularly Syrah, and what growers are replanting now.Why Niagara shines with cool-climate Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling.How Søren Wines sources fruit from BC to Eola–Amity Hills and operates as Geoff's “proof-of-concept” brand.Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Meet Geoffrey Moss, MW01:53 Canada's Wine Landscape: Regions, Climate & Industry Insights04:14 Geoffrey's Path Into Wine & the Origins of Søren Wines13:24 Production Realities: Logistics, Sourcing & Winemaking Challenges16:11 Deep Dive into the Okanagan: Style, Diversity & Key Varieties23:09 Evolution of Okanagan Wines: Merlot, Syrah & Climate Impacts30:32 Market Dynamics: BC Exports, Ontario's Cool-Climate Identity35:18 Niagara's Standout Grapes & Signature Styles41:25 The Future of Canadian Wine46:07 Final ThoughtsThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode, Janina sits down with Natasha Hughes MW, author of The Wines of Beaujolais, to explore one of France's most misunderstood wine regions. They discuss why Beaujolais is far more than simple Nouveau, how over 300 soil types and multiple winemaking styles shape the wines, and why Gamay can age beautifully. Natasha shares insights on the diversity of the Crus, the role of granite and diorite, old vines (including pre-phylloxera parcels), climate-driven changes, and the rise of exciting new producers bringing fresh energy to the region.  

You say you love Spanish wine, but you've never heard of Graciano?!? Then we have got a treat for you! Hailing from the Rioja region of Spain (as well as the Navarra region), Graciano has long been used as a blending grape to round out Rioja red wines, but now is being made into a single varietal that we think is worth seeking out. Sometimes called the third grape of Rioja, Graciano makes a red wine with robust tannins and acidity that some may find similar to Syrah or Petit Verdot. We think it's kind of the punk rock grape of Spain. This is one of those red wines that is great with food, and we also think is a good “tweener” red for those dinner parties where some people want a bold wine and others want a more food friendly wine. This can be both, which is fun. Plus, it's also a “wow your friends” wine because most people will never have heard of it, and we think they will be surprised how much they like it. Join us to learn more! Wines reviewed in this episode: 2021 Viña Zorzal Graciano, 2022 Viña Ijalba Graciano.Send us a Text Message and we'll respond in our next episode!Contact The Wine Pair Podcast - we'd love to hear from you!Visit our website, leave a review, and reach out to us: https://thewinepairpodcast.com/Follow and DM us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinepairpodcast/Send us an email: joe@thewinepairpodcast.com

Send us a textEver wondered how a $12 Italian white can stand toe-to-toe with a $40 benchmark? We bring Aldi Australia's wine buyer, Jason, into the studio and pull back the curtain on how supermarket wines can be precise, expressive, and outrageously good value without cutting corners. From the first pour, it's clear his approach is different: start with typicity, build texture with intention, and collaborate with winemakers until the brief becomes a glass of something you want a second pour of.We kick off with a blind Soave face-off that tests preconceptions about price and provenance—two 100% Garganega wines, both mineral, mandarin-tinged, and savoury, separated mostly by label and cost. Jason breaks down how long-term producer partnerships, large-format oak, and lees work can deliver both freshness and mouthfeel at a price that shocks. We then dive into the craft behind their Tasmanian Pinot Gris—anchored in Alsace-like texture but kept nimble—and why he'll skip famous appellations like Chablis if the quality-to-price equation isn't right. His value isn't “cheap”; it's clarity of style at a smarter price.Red lovers get plenty to sip on too. The Heathcote Shiraz brief leans Syrah: sustainably farmed fruit, a touch of whole bunch for lift, wild ferments, and large French oak for framing rather than flavour. The result is blue-fruited, perfumed, medium-bodied, and designed to be enjoyable beyond the first glass. We also unpack Marlborough Reserve Sauvignon, built from cooler Awatere acidity and main valley passionfruit, and a Central Otago Pinot that benefits from premium parcels seeking a home—proof that careful sourcing can turn constraints into elegance.If you're planning a summer spread, steal Jason's relaxed Christmas lineup: Moscato d'Asti and Premier Cru Champagne to start, mineral Italian whites with seafood, then textural whites and bright Pinot with turkey and ham. You'll hear honest talk about blind tasting, label design, and the quiet discipline that keeps a $3.49 bottle and a $20 bottle aligned to the same standard: it has to taste like where it's from. Like conversations that challenge your palate and your budget? Hit play, subscribe, share with a wine-curious friend, and tell us the best value bottle you've opened lately. Follow us on instagram @winewithmegandmel

In this episode, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos dive into Mencia, a red grape variety from the northwest of Spain that sits beautifully between Pinot Noir, Gamay and Syrah. If you love Pinot but want something a little richer, or you are looking for a gateway into bolder reds, Mencia might be your new favourite varietal. Carlos breaks down the regions of Bierzo and Galicia, how altitude and maritime influence shape the wine, and why Mencia has become a quiet favourite among sommeliers. Angus approaches the wine blind and shares how he assesses the colour, nose and palate as a novice working on his tasting skills. Perfect for wine lovers who want to expand beyond the usual Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet. Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller (Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off) Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Key Talking Points Mencia often sits between Pinot Noir and Syrah in weight and structure Mostly grown in Bierzo and Galicia in northwest Spain Expect red fruits, violet, rose, medium body and silky tannins A great option for Pinot Noir drinkers wanting something more generous Understanding how altitude, climate and maritime influence shape the style Why Spain’s wine renaissance in the late 20th century elevated Mencia Blind tasting approach for novices Chapters 00:00 — What is Mencia?Setting up the grape, why it’s confusing and why it matters. 00:16 — Why Pinot Noir Drinkers Should Try ItPositioning Mencia for the Australian palate and explaining its style. 01:08 — Carlos’s First Encounters With MenciaOrigin story, credibility and early exposure. 01:53 — What Mencia Tastes Like (Compared to Syrah, Gamay and Pinot)The clearest flavour and structure comparison. 02:30 — Is Mencia the Gateway Back to Bigger Reds?Bridging lighter drinkers to fuller styles. 03:32 — Blind Tasting: Appearance and AromaThe start of the formal assessment. 05:58 — Palate BreakdownTannins, body, fruit profile, balance — the core tasting notes. 08:15 — Old World vs New World GuessGreat chapter for wine geeks. 10:33 — Where Mencia Grows and Why It MattersBierzo, Galicia, altitude, climate — the terroir chapter. 13:45 — Spain’s Wine Revival and Mencia’s ComebackHistory in context, tied to modern quality. 14:56 — Final Thoughts and What to Try NextClear closing chapter. Tasting Notes (From the Episode) Appearance: Deep ruby, opaque core, richer colour than Gamay or PinotNose: Red roses, violets, ripe strawberry, raspberry, light pepperPalate: Medium body, silky tannins, red and black fruit mix, gentle warmth, balanced finishAlcohol: Listed at 13.5 percentOverall: Fruit forward, expressive, high quality for the price Mencia wine, Pinot Noir alternatives, Spanish red wine, Bierzo wine region, Galicia wine, Master Sommelier podcast, wine tasting tips, medium bodied red wine, Gamay vs Mencia, Syrah alternatives, GotSom podcast, Carlos Santos sommelier, Angus O'Loughlin wineThis podcast proudly presented by Grays.com: https://www.grays.com/search/wine-and-more?tab=itemsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SAMEDI 15 NOVEMBRE 2025Stéphane Gautrot et Arnaud Iffat - Domaine Puech Roques (Sud-Ouest)Niché à Montels, au cœur du vignoble de Gaillac, le Domaine Puech Roques incarne une nouvelle génération de vignerons engagés. Créé en 2024 par Christine et Stéphane Gautrot et l'œnologue Arnaud Iffat, le domaine élabore sur 4 ha de vignes bio des cuvées authentiques, fidèles aux cépages emblématiques du Gaillacois.Mathilde Suter - Domaine de l'Amandine (Vallée du Rhône)Au sud de la vallée du Rhône, dans le village pittoresque de Séguret, le Domaine de l'Amandine incarne une histoire de famille et de terroir. Fondé en 1968 par Jean-Pierre et Maryse Verdeau, le domaine s'étend aujourd'hui sur 35 ha de Syrah, Grenache et Cinsaut, cultivés avec soin pour exprimer l'authenticité du lieu.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

In today's episode, we offer another in our Old World vs New World series. Today, we're talking, Merlot! We're featuring a Right Bank Bordeaux and a Washington Merlot. And both Shelley and Phil are tasting these blind! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing Wines this episode: 2018 Chateau Ste Michelle Canoe Ridge Estate Merlot ($45)

In this sensory-driven episode, Janina is joined by Sietze Wijma, founder of The Art of Tasting, to explore how flavour molecules shape our experience of wine. From chemistry to culture, Sietze shares how our environment, memories, and even our saliva can change what we taste in the glass. Together, they unpack the science behind wine aromas, tasting faults, and why perception is as much about learning as it is about the senses.   Shownotes [00:26] Janina introduces her guest, Sietze Wijma, recognised at the 67 Pall Mall Global Communicator Awards for his work blending sensory science and wine education. [01:49] Quick wine fact — how saliva enzymes alter sweetness and release fruity aromas in Sauvignon Blanc. Based on info from The Cynic's Guide to Wine by Sunny Hodge (Guest on Ep 232) [03:41] Sietze explains The Art of Tasting and how adding isolated flavour compounds helps students identify key aromas. [04:31] How flavour molecules like those in green bell peppers naturally occur in wine. [05:28] Using “spiked” neutral wines as a training tool before tasting commercial wines. [06:19] Butter, vanilla, and yogurt notes — breaking down malolactic fermentation, oak ageing, and lees stirring. [08:00] How culture shapes perception: diacetyl (buttery aroma) described as baklava in Turkey or dahi in India. [09:36] Sietze's journey from studying flavour chemistry in beer to founding his own wine-focused aroma lab in the UK. [11:03] The “bird-watching” analogy — tasting is about recognition, not sensitivity; anyone can train their palate. [12:57] Identifying key wine aroma families — pyrazines, TDN, and rotundone — and how they appear in specific grape varieties. [13:55] Pyrazines and their link to green bell pepper notes in Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Carménère. [15:10] TDN and the petrol character in Riesling — how sunlight and bottle age intensify the aroma. [17:04] Rotundone and the black-pepper signature of cool-climate Syrah and white-pepper notes of Grüner Veltliner. [20:04] How different cultures interpret the same aroma — ginseng and pyrazines in Chinese Cabernet Sauvignon. [21:27] The “ladybug taint” — an uncommon wine fault caused by crushed beetles releasing pyrazine compounds. [23:32] Common wine faults explained: cork taint (TCA), reduction, light strike, oxidation, and brettanomyces. [28:09] Story time — Sietze recalls mistaking oxidation for an open-too-long bottle in Austria. [30:14] Brettanomyces and the fine line between savoury complexity and spoilage. [32:31] The Château de Beaucastel example — when Brett becomes part of terroir and debate. [33:13] Tasting myths: why aromas like “green bell pepper” don't mean actual allergens in wine. [34:37] How to improve blind tasting skills at home using aroma kits and DIY spiked wines. [36:28] Why tasting side-by-side is key to better identification and learning. [37:55] The “mouseiness” fault — why some aromas appear only after tasting due to pH and acidity. [42:46] Helen Keller's quote on scent and memory — a poetic close to a science-rich episode.

It's Halloween! And today we're opening three ghoulish, but spooktacular, wines in the SPIRIT of this haunting day. Two of these are pretty easy to find and the other is easy if you're shopping at Pilgrim's Market. Don't be afraid! These wines are more treats than tricks! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing #PetiteBooWines this episode: 2022 The Velvet Devil Merlot from Charles Smith Wines ($11 at Fred Meyer) 

Dan and Kevin Kevin Bersofsky, owner of Montagne Russe wines, is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Harry Duke sitting in for Daedalus Howell today. He has been on CWC before, the last time was this episode of July 19, 2024. Dan Berger begins with a compliment for Kevin’s Pinot Noir. He replies, “Syrah is my spirit animal,” so he has brought some Syrah too. His cellar is 50% Syrah. Most collectors don’t keep as much as Kevin does. Dan explains that Syrah has to be grown in a cold climate, and warmer climates are risky. 2024 was “strange” and 2023 was cold. So the cold years give nicer aromatics. The San Giacomo Family vineyards The Pinot Noir says “Roberts Road” on the label, and Kevin explains. The San Giacomo family owns the vineyard. Kevin gives credit to the San Giacomo family for setting the conditions for making such a great wine. Angelo San Giacomo founded their company in the Carneros region. It wasn’t until about 1988-1990 when they started planting in what became known as the Petaluma Gap. The combination of the soils and the weather have made Petaluma Gap one of the most interesting AVAs in the country. There are volcanic soils on one side, and a mix of clay and loam in other areas. Gap’s Crown falls in the middle layer halfway up the hill, where the sediment has settled in the lower region. Every region of Gap’s Crown can produce different flavors, even just by crossing the street. Dan compares this to Burgundy. Montagne Russe means Russian Mountain literally, and is the French word for roller coaster. He was making 13 barrels of wine in his garage, which his neighbor objected to. He called ATF federal police and he had to destroy 4 barrels and promise to stop making wine at home. So then he and his friends started Montagne Russe. Their first wines got high scores, 93 and 94. About 3 months ago they opened a tasting room in Petaluma and they love it there.

In todays episode, we dabble in some canned wines as well as feature an Orange Wine in honor of Orange Wine Day which is coming up on Monday. If you haven't had an Orange Wine, Pilgrim's Market has three of them to try, including the one we're featuring today! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #CheersingWines this episode:Frico Lambrusco - in a can ($3.19 at Pilgrim's Market)

Oded Shakked, Longboard Vineyards Oded Shakked from Longboard Vineyards is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell. He has been on CWC several times before, the last two times were this episode on September 20, 2024. and a year before that, this episode on November 17, 2023. Today he has brought more Longboard wines to taste and to discuss. Oded Shakked’s episodes on California Wine Country have the distinction of holding the N.1 and N.2 positions for the most traffic (streams plus downloads) among all CWC episodes in the last eight years of the podcast. Congratulations to Oded and Longboard Vineyards! Daedalus Howell begins by remembering that his last film premiered at Longboard Vineyards, as part of what is now the True West Film Fest. Oded Shakked remembers that he liked the movie. 40 Harvests! This morning, Oded Shakked finished his 40th harvest, 28 for Longboard and the rest, for others. He still gets energized during harvest, when you work 12-18 hour days and feel jazzed afterwards. Oded wants to find a balance, for Sauvignon Blanc, using grapes from different regions and 40% in neutral barrels, the rest in stainless steel, so partial ML, but still good natural acidity. They are tasting the 2024 SV from Russian River Valley. A lot of SV has been converted to Pinot Noir, but not this vineyard. “It has a nice snap to it, … green pea… melon… Meyer lemon…” says Dan. It has a character that Oded likes to call sun-dried linen. Dan says that unfortunately, California Chardonnay is produced for people who like something rich. Dan considers those Chardonnays to be cocktail wines. SV is more fascinating because it has more nuances of flavor. In this Chard from Longboard, the ML is subtle. And unlike some New Zealand SVs, it is not too sweet. It is not served too cool, so the flavors are more evident. Watergirl Rosé Oded always wanted to make Rosé, and initially he made it from Syrah. However it did not sell. At the time, Rosé had not yet become fashionable. Most people in Russian River Valley make Rosé from Pinot Noir. Oded makes his Rosé mostly from Grenache, with some Syrah and Caringnane. He is looking for that southern French style. The name Watergirl Rosé comes from the wine’s previous name, which was Wahine. That means a surfer girl in Hawaiian, and nobody knew the word or could pronounce it. Oded is a lifelong surfer. He noticed that whenever there were women in the water, they had to work twice as hard to compete for space to drop in. He has a lot of respect for them because of that and so the wine is named for them. This Watergirl Rosé has juicy berry notes and watermelon at first, then the finish gets a little bit of the red wine component. Later in the show Oded tells the story of how he grew up 100 yards from the beach in Israel. He started surfing as a kid and he still surfs. After his military service he made surfboards for a living, for a while. He would close shop in September and go to surf the west facing beaches in Portugal, Spain and France for months at a time. His interest in wine started in Spain on surf trips, drinking Albariño. It took some time for him to get so interested in wine. A friend of the family told him about a winemaking school in the US, and he took the suggestion. Later, he started Longboard because he wanted to write off his surf trips and admits that at first, he never thought the winery would last, let alone be so successful.

We have awards! We have good eggs, hot rocks and jailbird vignerons! We even have acts of civilisation and love. Welcome to our Chile Wines of the Year 2025...Join us as we chat with stars of the Chilean wine firmament, talking wine treasures with Sebastián Labbé (Santa Rita), the tragedy of Syrah with Mariluz Marin (Casa Marin) and fortifying life goals with François Massoc (Atelier Massoc). We also learn about circular winemaking with good wine vibrations courtesy of Cristián Vallejo (VIK).Whatever Chilean wine is today, it's not dull. With our Chile Wines of the Year initiative, we want to let everyone know just how dynamic and intriguing modern Chilean wine is - a far cry from the dull staples we often see in shops and restaurants. Alongside this podcast episode, we're also publishing a free report on our website, where you can find the full lineup of spectacular wines we've personally selected this year. You can find it via this link: Susie & Peter's Chile Wines of the Year 2025 ReportThanks to Wines of Chile for sponsoring and the wineries for supporting this initiative and allowing us to explore the fascinating world of Chilean wine.Thanks to you for tuning in. We love to hear from you so please do get in touch! Send us a voice message via Speakpipe. Or you can find all details from this episode, including photos, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S7 E4 - Chile Wines of the Year 2025To get early access to all episodes, full archive access to our back catalogue and exclusive occasional bonus content, subscribe to Wine Blast PLUS at wineblast.co.ukInstagram: @susieandpeter

Why is Serra Gaúcha the best place to start exploring Brazilian wine and what does this stunning region look like if you want to visit? Which grape varieties thrive in Brazil and have any unique varieties been successful? What's happening with wine culture in Brazil? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Tufi Meyer, author of the terrific new book, Wines of Brazil. You don't need to have listened to part one from last week first, but if you missed it, go back and have a listen after you finish this one. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Tufi Neder Meyer's terrific book, Wines of Brazil. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights What's the story behind Casa Verrone's "Purple Cow” and what was the tasting experience like? How does Brazilian wine law define noble wine? Which types of Brazilian wood are being used for barrel aging and how do they impact the wines? What are the most successful grape varieties that are native to Brazil? What's happening with wine culture in Brazil? What does it mean for a wine to have a foxy aroma? Does Brazil produce dessert wines? What do you need to know about the Serra Gaúcha wine region? Which cities and wine regions should you visit on a trip to Brazil? How have heavy taxation and bureaucracy impacted the development of the Brazilian wine industry? What is the one message Tufi would like to share with international wine lovers about Brazilian wines? What does Tufi see for the future of the Brazilian wine industry? Who would Tufi like to be able to share a bottle of wine with?   Key Takeaways Serra Gaucha is a hilly, almost mountainous region, north of the capital of Rio Grande do Sul, a state in the south. It has a long tradition of winemaking and it's a very beautiful region with a very well-developed tourist structure. It's certainly the first region in Brazil where you should go when you start to get to know our wines. Almost every winery has a tasting room, and they are open to visitors. Good restaurants, good hotels, good towns to see. And it's not far from the state capital. In Brazil, like in Argentina, the United States, Canada or Chile, European grapes are the most successful - Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc - and these are the most successful grapes so far. But we also make our Vinifera wines, varieties developed here in Brazil. The most successful so far is Lorena, which you will not find anywhere else. We have developed a crossing. It's a white grape, very aromatic, Muscat-like or reminds us of Gewurztraminer. It's very successful, growing in popularity. Brazil has tried to develop some exclusive red grapes, but so far, not with very good results. So you won't find red grapes that are equivalent to Lorena, for instance. We must content ourselves with grapes from other countries, but we have a lot of them. The wine consumption in Brazil is growing, although we would like to be faster. I presume this is because wine is fashionable, wine is very good with food, and people are curious about wine. Wine education is progressing. All this may explain this situation, and our national wine industry is growing too.   About Tufi Neder Meyer Tufi Neder Meyer, a graduate of UFMG Medical School with a PhD in surgery, has studied wines since before college and has been a wine educator since the 1990s. He lives and works in Brazil's south-east, teaching at The Wine School Brazil (WSET approved). Tufi authored ‘Wines of Brazil', a part of the Classic Wine Library of L'Académie du Vin.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/355.

This interview is with Nicholas Caluori of Secus Wines. In this interview, Nicholas talks about his variety of experiences working wine harvests all around the world and how he started his own label.Nicholas shares about growing up in Kirkland, Washington, where his family owned an Italian restaurant. When he started working at the restaurant in the early 2000s, wine was starting to boom in the Pacific Northwest, and he had to know about wine in order to better serve guests.While originally he was more interested in beer, Nicholas and his mom took a course with the Court of Master Sommeliers to understand more about wine. Many of his friends in the area worked in wine, so he joined a harvest at Betz Family Winery in 2015. After that, he worked harvests in New Zealand, California, Chile, and finally Burgundy before coming back to Washington.Later in the interview, Nicholas talks about moving to Oregon as the wine scene seemed more “punk rock.” While working at Limited Addition, he started his own wine experiments that would later set the stage for his label. In 2024, he released his first vintage of Secus (which means “to the contrary”) Wines which included a Riesling and a Syrah.This interview was conducted by Rich Schmidt at Linfield University's Nicholson Library on August 15, 2025.

Sometimes...ok, MANY times during our lives as wine drinkers, we have the challenge of keeping our wine safe and cool, whether it's during transporting the wine or keeping it from cooking during camping trips, tailgate parties or a plethora of other occasions! Today, we found the solution as we have Jeanine Lum with 3rd Bottle Wine Bags. No more drinking warm or cooked wines! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing #JeffDrivingApproved Products this episode:The Weekender - 6pk Ice Pack Wine Bag ($400 through the website)The Traveler - 12pk Ice Pack Wine Bag ($500 through the website)Please visit https://www.3rdbottle.com and enter WTF282 at checkout for an additional 10% off the Back to School Sale pricing, through September, 2025!Wines this episode:2024 Cinder Dry Viognier ($28 at the winery)2023 Cinder Malbec ($42 at the winery)2022 Cinder Syrah ($42 at the winery)A HUGE thanks to our sponsors: Naked Wines, Eternal Wine and Cinder Winery! Naked Wines: Straight from the winemaker right to your door, premium wine without the premium pricing is what Naked Wines is all about. Save big on wines from the world's best winemakers! Visit https://us.nakedwines.com/winetimefridays to get $100 off your first 6 pack case. With Naked Wines, discovering new wines is truly risk-free!Eternal Wine: Are you a Rhone Ranger or just really love Syrah? Then you need to check out Eternal Wine! Their focus is on single vineyard Rhone valley wines in Washington State. Also check out their Drink Washington State brand of approachable wines! Visit https://eternalwine.com for more information or simply call 509-240-6258. Eternal Wine: Drink Wine, Be Happy.Cinder Winery: Crafting world-class wines in Idaho's Snake River Valley from award-winning Viognier to bold Tempranillo and Syrah, Cinder wines showcase the region's unique volcanic soils and ideal climate. Visit cinderwines.com for more information! Cinder: Savor the taste of Idaho's finest! The CDA Gourmet Wine Word of the Week - Field Blend A Field Blend is a wine made from multiple grape varieties that are blended together in the vineyard before harvest, rather than being separated and blended later in the winemaking process.Mentions: Nikki Harmon, Curt and Cassandra Knox, Bob Norris, John Parmann, Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards, Trader Joe's, Shark Tank, Kevin O'Leary, Melanie Krause, Joe Schnerr, Chateau Ste Michelle, Northstar Winery, La Fat Cellars, Bells Up Winery and Brenda & Matt Sparkman.Please find us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WineTimeFridays), Twitter (@VintageTweets), Instagram (@WineTimeFridays) on our YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@winetimefridays and on Threads, which is @winetimefridays. You can also “Follow” Phil on Vivino. His profile name is Phil Anderson and will probably “Follow” you back! Wine Time Fridays Rating System: Phenomenal 

Immediately after recording the fourth and final episodes of Syrah's quest, Fiona and Ty discuss how it went! Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits & Links Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

Investigation: COMPLETE! Now it's time to make some questionable decisions! Syrah Duskstone is played by Fiona Howat, a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

Why are the sparkling wines the most successful wines? What is it about the wines of Brazil, the terroir, that really makes them excel? How does double pruning and winter harvesting help Brazilian vineyards produce higher-quality wines? How did family farming traditions shape Brazil's wine regions, and what is the crossover between coffee and grape cultivation? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Tufi Meyer, author of the new book Wines of Brazil. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Tufi Neder Meyer's terrific book, Wines of Brazil. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights Where did Tufi's love for wine come from? Why do red sparkling wines from southern Brazil pair so well with the traditional dish feijoada? Which characteristics make Brazilian sparkling wines particularly successful compared to other wine styles? What's the biggest misconception about Brazilian wine? How does Brazil's annual wine production compare to other South American producers? Why hasn't Brazil's wine industry developed as large as those of Argentina and Chile? How did Portuguese colonial policies impact the development of Brazil's wine industry? How does Brazil's size and climate diversity influence viticulture? How has the legacy of land ownership and agricultural practices from the coffee industry shaped modern Brazilian viticulture? Is there any crossover between the coffee and wine industries? How do the different types of viticulture practiced in Brazil differ? What is unique about tropical viticulture in Brazil? Why do some Syrah wines from Brazil resemble those from the northern Rhône in France more than Australian Shiraz? What challenges do Brazilian vineyards face due to the humid climate in certain regions?   Key Takeaways Brazil has all sorts of sparkling wines, from traditional method, made like champagne to sweet, made from Muscat in zesty fashion, passing through tank methods, sparklers. But all of them have a very important character. It's fruit ripeness. Fruit is forward in Brazilian wines. Maybe elegant sometimes, or very well declared at other times, but it's easy to perceive and it's easy to like it. There's a fresh character to our sparklers. If you plant vines in Brazil in places where it is too humid and too warm at that harvest time, you won't get good quality grapes. But if this place has a winter which is not too cold, which has sunny days and cool nights, if you've succeeded in having the harvest during such a time, you have good grapes. That's precisely what double pruning makes. You prune in January, you start a new growth cycle, and the vines will be ripened during our winter. So the winter harvesting. Dry time, sunny days, cool nights. When the Italian immigrants arrived, they were given pieces of land. That's what is today Serra Gaúcha, our main wine-producing region. The relations between coffee and wine have started very much more recently, when double pruning and winter harvest developed here in a coffee region. And today the vines are planted in the same places where coffee does well. In slopes with little risk of frosts, better drain the terrain and many times together, side by side, grapes and coffee groves.   About Tufi Neder Meyer Tufi Neder Meyer, a graduate of UFMG Medical School with a PhD in surgery, has studied wines since before college and has been a wine educator since the 1990s. He lives and works in Brazil's south-east, teaching at The Wine School Brazil (WSET approved). Tufi authored ‘Wines of Brazil', a part of the Classic Wine Library of L'Académie du Vin.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/354.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Shoprite CEO Pieter Engelbrecht about the group’s record-breaking results, with revenue rising 8.6% to R256.7bn and headline earnings per share up 15.8%, and to Motus CEO Ockert Janse van Rensburg, who reflects on a stronger second half that lifted headline earnings per share by 5%, despite a 1% dip in revenue to R112.6bn following the sale of its UK Mercedes-Benz Truck and Van division. In other interviews, Tim Atkin MW chats about South Africa's rising wine success, driven by winemakers' deep respect for the land and focus on expressing terroir, with Chenin Blanc and Syrah standing out as top-performing varieties in his annual South Africa Special Report. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Wine Road, hosts Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa (0:00-0:24) introduce the show and thank sponsors Ron Rubin and River Road Family Vineyards and Winery for their support.   They welcome Crystalyn Hackett, owner of Spicy Vines, as their guest (0:49-1:00). Crystalyn shares her excitement about being on the show and introduces a spiced wine she brought, which ties into her personal story and the origins of Spicy Vines (1:23-2:55). The wine, described as "Christmas in a glass," is a blend of Grenache, Zinfandel, Carignan, and Petite Syrah, infused with holiday spices and a hint of brandy, evoking cozy, festive feelings (2:05-2:33). Crystalyn recounts her journey, starting with her time as a competitive equestrian in Germany, where she realized her entrepreneurial aspirations (3:08-4:46). After traveling and brainstorming ideas, she returned to California and created her first spiced wine, inspired by a drink she had in Germany (6:00-7:16). Despite having no prior experience in the wine industry, she spent a year perfecting the formula and navigating regulatory challenges to define and legally categorize "spiced wine" (8:03-9:22). Crystalyn explains how she built Spicy Vines from scratch, starting with events in San Francisco and eventually partnering with her now-husband, Doug, who became the winemaker (10:29-11:19). Together, they expanded their portfolio to include Zinfandel, Syrah, rosé, and other varietals, focusing on high-quality, small-batch production (12:12-13:07). Their Healdsburg tasting room, opened in 2016, offers a lively atmosphere with live music, wine cocktails, and charcuterie (13:13-14:22). Crystalyn emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming, fun experience for visitors and wine club members, offering customizable memberships and personal touches like follow-ups and curated shipments (17:00-24:41). She also teases plans to launch her own podcast to share inspiring stories and connect with others (24:42-25:35). The episode wraps up with details about Spicy Vines' unique "winning cork" promotion and upcoming events, including their harvest release party and annual "Taste of Pine Mountain" event (25:36-27:00). The hosts close by encouraging listeners to visit Spicy Vines and keep it spicy (29:33-30:05).       LINKS: Spicy Vines  The Gables Inn - the lodging property featured today Wine & Food Affair - tickets to on sale today Frick Winery - our last mystery "where am I winery"   Sponsor: River Road Family Vineyards and Winery Credits: The Wine Road podcast is mixed and mastered at
 Threshold Studios Sebastopol, CA. http://thresholdstudios.info/  

Syrah finds himself at the mercy of... hm. Would it be a spoiler if I said who? Syrah finds himself at the mercy of someone! How will he get out? And how will he turn this situation to his advantage? Syrah Duskstone is played by Fiona Howat, a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Mentioned During the Show Blades in the Dark, the dark fantasy heist game by John Harper that is the template for all Forged in the Dark games. Scum & Villainy, a Forged in the Dark game inspired by space adventures like Star Wars and Star Trek. Additional Credits Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

In this Five Questions episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Jeremy Seysses, co-owner and winemaker at the iconic Domaine Dujac in Burgundy. Jeremy shares what sets his wines apart in a region full of celebrated Pinot Noir, offering insight into his whole-cluster fermentation approach and its impact on aromatics and texture. We explore his inspirations beyond Burgundy, from Northern Rhône Syrah to the deep-rooted traditions of Piedmont, and hear stories of memorable vintages—from the relentless challenges of 2024 to the benchmark 2005 harvest. Jeremy also reflects on building a new winery, upcoming vineyard acquisitions, and how a sense of place shapes both his work and his friendships across the wine world.

Today, Shelley and Phil dive into week four of the 2nd Washington Wine Month of 2025 with a name most people should know in Chateau Ste Michelle and a great value Syrah! Washington wines continue to shine! #HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #CheersingWines this episode:2022 Chateau Ste Michelle Chardonnay ($23 at Pilgrim's Market)2023 The Originals Syrah ($6 at Trader Joe's)A HUGE thanks to our sponsors: Liberty Lake Wine Cellars!Liberty Lake Wine Cellars: Looking for amazing wine? Taste Liberty Lake Wine Cellars' big, bold reds from Red Mountain, along with their delightful Tahija whites and Rosés. Join their Wine Club for exclusive benefits including their Thursday Wine Club night. Get all the details at https://www.libertylakewinecellars.com/ or call 509-255-9205. Liberty Lake Wine Cellars: Celebrating 20 years of making exceptional Washington wine!The Naked Wines Wine Words of the Week - Cold Fermentation Cold Fermentation refers to a fermentation process that takes place at cooler temperatures (usually between 10-15°C/50-59°F). This technique is often used for white wines like Chardonnay, as it helps to preserve the wine's delicate aromas and flavors.Mentions: Dave Harvey, Pilgrim's Market, Sara Lane, Trader Joe's, Charles Smith, Erica Orr, Matt and Brenda Sparkman, CDA Gourmet, April Howard, Cooper Winery, Madeline Puckette, Wine Folly, Damon Huard, Passing Time, Jeanine Lum, 3rd Bottle, Chris Upchurch, Upchurch Vineyards, DeLille Cellars, Kevin Olsonberg, Gizmo-CDA.Some wines we've enjoyed this week: J. Bookwalter Conflict, Pian delle Vigne Rosso di Montalciano, Tablas Creek Vineyard Patelin de Tablas Rosé, Rivaura Merlot, Jorge Aleman Unoaked Chardonnay, Camille Benitah Chardonnay, Cooper Mountain Pinot Noir and Kyle Burke Chardonnay.Please find us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WineTimeFridays), Twitter (@VintageTweets), Instagram (@WineTimeFridays) on our YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@winetimefridays and on Threads, which is @winetimefridays. You can also “Follow” Phil on Vivino. His profile name is Phil Anderson and will probably “Follow” you back! Wine Time Fridays Rating System: Phenomenal 

Immediately after recording the third episode of Syrah's quest, Fiona and Ty discuss how it went and what they hope lies in store! Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits & Links Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

Guests to Liam Dabadasha's home enjoy many luxuries: Fine food, quality musicians, plush furnishings, and the charming attentions of Syrah Duskstone. Syrah Duskstone is played by Fiona Howat, a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Mentioned During the Show Dice Exploder, a podcast about game design. Additional Credits Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

In this episode of Five Questions on the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with William Kelley, Editor-in-Chief of The Wine Advocate and one of the wine world's most insightful and articulate voices. Based in Beaune, France, William oversees coverage of Bordeaux and Burgundy, and brings a globally respected palate and deep historical perspective to his writing and reviews.

What US wine region is currently the champion to visit? On today's episode we discuss what wine regions are most worth visiting for your dollar to experience.  How is wine region travel doing? Which place deserves your hard earned cash and is actually worth it?  Host Jason Wise and Sommelier Claire Coppi break down the state of travel to wine regions and make their picks for the wine region they believe is currently holding the Championship belt right now for visiting.  If you are a SOMM TV subscriber, you can watch this episode now on our app and the web at sommtv.com   This episode is brought to you by Curate. Have you ever called Cabernet for a Syrah on a blind tasting? Curate for Sommeliers helps fix that and help guide your path to understand and study wine better. SOMM TV listeners save 25 percent on their first three months with code SOMMTV, valid through October 2025.https://discover.curate.wine/for-sommeliers/?utm_source=sommtv&utm_medium=podcast_ad&utm_campaign=sommtv_202508&utm_term=sommtv_ep259&utm_content=episode_description

Immediately after recording the second episode of Syrah's quest, Fiona and Ty discuss how it went and what they hope lies in store! Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits & Links Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

Syrah Duskstone (played by Fiona) has been given the unsavory task of removing a rival's "asset". But first, he must take stock of this city and the allies, enemies, and innocent bystanders that call it home. Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Mentioned During the Show Thirteen, a monthly audio fiction anthology podcast featuring atmospheric, slow burn, spooky stories. Additional Credits Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko welcomes Matt Day, Head Winemaker at Klein Constantia, for a deep dive into one of South Africa's most historic and forward-thinking wine estates. From reviving the legendary Vin de Constance, a wine once sipped by Napoleon, to pioneering terroir-driven Sauvignon Blancs in the Cape's cool-climate vineyards, Matt shares his journey and winemaking philosophy in rich detail.Listeners will also hear about South Africa's evolving wine landscape, how Klein Constantia balances centuries of legacy with biodynamic practices and forward-thinking viticulture, and why Sauvignon Blanc deserves more serious attention. Plus, Matt explains how a single magnum of homemade Syrah helped him land the job of a lifetime.Topics Covered:The legacy and revival of Vin de Constance, one of the world's great historic sweet winesMatt Day's early journey and how he became Head Winemaker at just 26The global influences shaping Klein Constantia's Sauvignon Blanc programWhy the estate grows 65% Sauvignon Blanc and produces multiple terroir-driven bottlingsHow Klein Constantia integrates organic, biodynamic, and precision farmingThe role of predators, pests, and even tourists in vineyard managementThe estate's 340-year anniversary and what's next for South African fine wineBook Referenced: The Wines of South Africa by Jim Clarke - https://amzn.to/40zFEmuLink to Klein Constantia Website: https://www.kleinconstantia.com/Chapters:00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast01:06 Exploring South African Wine Regions04:27 Most Expensive Sauvignon Blanc10:09 Interview with Matt Day Begins10:54 Matt Day's Journey in Winemaking16:46 The Legacy of Klein Constantia22:31 Sustainability and Innovation at Klein Constantia27:14 Focus on Sauvignon Blanc30:41 Exploring Soil Types and Their Impact on Wine31:16 Innovative Winemaking Techniques32:32 Understanding Vineyard Blocks and Harvesting34:24 The Art of Single Vineyard Wines36:18 The Unique Vanda Constance Wine44:54 Challenges and Innovations in Winemaking53:43 Celebrating 340 Years of Winemaking55:20 Conclusion and Future OutlookThe Vint Wine Podcast is a production by host, Billy Galanko. For partnerships and collaborations, please reach out to Billy@thewinepod.com Cheers!

Immediately after recording the first episode of Syrah's quest, Fiona and Ty discuss how it went and what they hope lies in store! Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits & Links Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

Somewhere, in the days before Syrah received the letter... Special thanks to Joshua Lorimer, best known for playing Graeak on the actual play podcast Sneak Attack! and for creating the other actual play podcast The Titans of All'Terra! Listeners may also know him for his more recent role as Buster on I Cast Fireball, or they may have even gotten to play a game with him, since he also works as a professional GM on the site Start Playing. Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits & Links Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, we're joined by Charlotte Read, General Manager of Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers. Charlotte shares her unique journey from growing up on a vineyard in the 1970s to leading global branding efforts for one of the world's most exciting wine-producing countries. We explore New Zealand's enduring success with Sauvignon Blanc, the rise of Pinot Noir and Syrah, and how the country is advancing sustainability, innovation, and regional storytelling.Charlotte offers expert insight into:The evolution of the New Zealand wine industry since the 1970sMarlborough Sauvignon Blanc and its growing stylistic diversityWhy New Zealand Pinot Noir is gaining global prestigeTrends in low- and no-alcohol wines and vineyard-driven innovationSustainability leadership and the 30-year legacy of SWNZExpanding into new markets including China, South Korea, and IndiaHow New Zealand is adapting to Gen Z preferences and digital storytellingPlus, Charlotte shares highlights from the recent Pinot Noir conference and explains the national brand platform “Altogether Unique,” built on purity, innovation, and care.

Fiona joins us as Syrah, the conniving sixth son of the wealthy and influential Duskstone family. Listen in as Syrah corresponds with a mysterious benefactor and plans a dastardly mission. Fiona Howat is a TTRPG Actual Play Performer, Podcaster, Improviser, and Voiceover Artist who works with Realms of Peril & Glory. She is perhaps best known for the actual play podcast What Am I Rolling? and the TTRPG talkshow The DM's Book Club. Want to learn more about Ty, the host (and GM and producer and editor and...) of SCQ? Have questions for us, or just want to say hi? Website: Contact form or Press Kit Email: SideCharacterQuest@gmail.com Instagram: @SCQpodcast Discord: Side Character Quest LinkTree: SideCharacterQuest Additional Credits & Links Thanks to Autumn for providing the artwork for Side Character Quest! Thanks to Briar for lending a voice to our credits! To hear more, check out one of Briar's own side character quests as Deirdre, a monster hunting cleric! Proud member of the Scavengers Network. Say hi on the Scavengers Network Discord Server!

A new week means new questions! Hope you have fun with these!A magnifying glass features what kind of lens?Give any of the 3 types of animals in the titles of surviving plays by ancient Greek playwright Aristophanes.Tyrian Purple, aka Royal or Imperial Purple, was once a highly valued dye secreted by several species of what kind of animal?The Second Temple period in Jewish history ended with the Roman siege of which city?In mechanical terms, what are the toothed disks on a conventional bicycle referred to?The grape variety known in France as Syrah is called by which name in Australia, Chile and other wine regions?Comics or graphic novels originating from Japan are known by what collective term?The Louvre Pyramid, the large glass-and-metal entrance way and skylight designed by which Chinese-American architect?Who voiced Ms. Frizzle on the children's television series “Magic School Bus”?MusicHot Swing, Fast Talkin, Bass Walker, Dances and Dames, Ambush by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Don't forget to follow us on social media:Patreon – patreon.com/quizbang – Please consider supporting us on Patreon. Check out our fun extras for patrons and help us keep this podcast going. We appreciate any level of support!Website – quizbangpod.com Check out our website, it will have all the links for social media that you need and while you're there, why not go to the contact us page and submit a question!Facebook – @quizbangpodcast – we post episode links and silly lego pictures to go with our trivia questions. Enjoy the silly picture and give your best guess, we will respond to your answer the next day to give everyone a chance to guess.Instagram – Quiz Quiz Bang Bang (quizquizbangbang), we post silly lego pictures to go with our trivia questions. Enjoy the silly picture and give your best guess, we will respond to your answer the next day to give everyone a chance to guess.Twitter – @quizbangpod We want to start a fun community for our fellow trivia lovers. If you hear/think of a fun or challenging trivia question, post it to our twitter feed and we will repost it so everyone can take a stab it. Come for the trivia – stay for the trivia.Ko-Fi – ko-fi.com/quizbangpod – Keep that sweet caffeine running through our body with a Ko-Fi, power us through a late night of fact checking and editing!

Danielle Langlois joins the guys to talk about her new solo venture, Jambe Des Bois—a deeply personal label focused on small-lot, handcrafted wines. After years as the winemaker at Lasseter Family Winery, Danielle stepped away to pursue her own vision, working with fruit farmed by legendary grower Phil Coturri and a bit of Syrah from a Carneros vineyard her husband Dan tends himself. The conversation covers everything from Danielle's winemaking philosophy to the unique challenges and freedoms that come with striking out on your own. It's a great listen for anyone who loves Sonoma wines, respects vineyard-driven production, or just wants to support the folks doing it the hard way—by hand, in small batches, and with real intention. [EP 375] Follow along at @jambedesbois and, if you can find a bottle, grab one. These wines don't stick around long. jambedeboiswines.com

This week I go in depth on one of the best value regions of Portugal -- Alentejo. These wines are mainly blends and they are as easy on the palate as they are on the wallet -- a perfect combo!  Photo: Vineyards in Alentejo outside of Évora. Credit: WFNP   Located in southern Portugal, a two hour drive east of Lisbon, Alentejo is huge -- representing almost one-third of the Iberian nation. Although in the past the region was known only as the breadbasket of Portugal and as the world's largest supplier of cork (nearly half of the world's  corks come from Alentejo's cork trees), today the region is experiencing a wine renaissance. After a rocky history, Alentejo has grown and its reputation has expanded with it.    Known for fruity, lush and plush red blends (about 75% of the wine) of grapes like Alicante Bouschet, Aragonez (Tempranillo), Trincadeira, Alfrochero, and Castelão, there are some higher end versions that sometimes contain Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Syrah as well. The whites are in the minority and are fruity, soft, yet balanced blends as well. The tropical, tangerine noted and soft Antão Vaz is Alentejo's most important white with Arinto used for acidity, Fernão Pires for aroma and soft textures and Roupeiro for aroma as well.  Map: Rota dos Vinhos, from the Wines of Alentejo   This show covers all the bases on this fascinating region -- from its turbulent history to the climate, terroir, and the many DOPs that each have a distinct identiy.    Full show notes and all back episodes are on Patreon. Join the community today! www.patreon.com/winefornormalpeople _______________________________________________________________   This show is brought to you by my exclusive sponsor, Wine Access – THE place to discover your next favorite bottle. Wine Access has highly allocated wines and incredible values, plus free shipping on orders of $150 or more. You can't go wrong with Wine Access! Join the WFNP/Wine Access wine club and get 6 awesome bottles for just $150 four times a year. That includes shipping! When you become a member, you also get 10% all your purchases on the site. Go to wineaccess.com/normal to sign up!