Podcasts about wine podcast

Episode #6 describes my initial encounter with the bureaucracy in the wine business. It was when I went to work at William Hill Winery back in 1984 and was introduced to the world of Franchise Laws. Franchise Laws come in many shapes and sizes in the country, but essentially, what they are written to do is protect the alcoholic wholesaler distributors in this country. In the case I outline, it is in the state of Georgia, which has far and away the most protective and egregious law in the land. Literally, if a wine producer signs on with a Georgia distributor, that distributor now owns the rights to the brand for life. The only recourse a producer has is to withdraw from the market for three years or have their brand transferred to another distributor in the market, which may or may not be any better. Crazy stuff.I guess because Georgia was initially established as a Penal Colony, they like the thought of having the wine producer in leg irons, where they are the Judge and Jury. You are not going to believe what you are going to hear in this Episode.Take a listen.Thanks for being a listener to the Fine Wine Confidential Podcast. For more information go to www.finewineconfidential.com

Shannon Family of Wines, the Lake County AVA, Rugged Land, the Ovis Project, and interview with Clay Shannon, owner, Shannon Family of Wines. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European & Asia sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in CA wine, chatting along the way with the experts who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Clay Shannon of Shannon Family Wines. 

How does the biggest misconception about Spanish wine make it a hidden gem for wine lovers? How did Spain's civil war and period of dictatorship delay the growth of its wine culture? What makes the vineyards of Priorat challenging to walk and unforgettable to visit? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Sarah Jane Evans, author of the terrific new book The Wines of Central and Southern Spain: From Catalunya to Cadiz. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Sarah Jane Evans' wonderful new book, The Wines of Central and Southern Spain: From Catalunya to Cadiz. 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 the memory of her parents bottling wine at home influence Sarah Jane's perception of wine? What is the Oxford vs. Cambridge University Varsity Blind Wine-Tasting Match? What was Sarah Jane's experience as a judge at wine competitions in Japan? What's unique about Japan's peaches and why does Sarah Jane recommend them as a “can't miss” on a trip to Japan? Why was Sarah Jane initially drawn to Spanish wine? What is the Officer's Cross of the Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic and why was Sarah Jane awarded this honour? Why did Sarah Jane choose to write her Master of Wine dissertation on the alchemists of Sherry? What is the significance of Sarah Jane's choice to use first names when writing about winemakers? What are the hallmark characteristics of Spanish orange wines? Where are Spain and its territories located in Europe? What's the biggest misconception about Spanish wine? Why does Sarah Jane consider Spain the most exciting country in Europe for wine? How are winemakers reviving old vineyards in Spain? What makes Casa Castillo's Monastrell wines unique?   Key Takeaways Unfortunately, people think of Spanish wine as cheap and cheerful. That image is hard to to get rid of. So when you look at a fine wine list, if you're in a Michelin-starred restaurant, you will start off with maybe Champagne, and then you'll have France, and then you'll get into Italy, and then, if you're lucky, Spain will come next. The good thing about that is that it makes very top wine in Spain, still very good value. Since Spain had a civil war just before the Second World War, and after that, they had a fascist dictatorship that went on till the late 1970s, they didn't join Europe until the 1980s. So during that time of the dictatorship, they were told what to farm, where to farm, how to farm it. So there was no priority about fostering a wonderful wine culture. that's only really coming in the last 40 years. Spain has just been a little bit behind, but it has to escape, because you can't survive on paying growers next to nothing, making very cheap wines.   About Sarah Jane Evans Sarah Jane is an award-winning writer. She travels widely as an educator and consultant, and is a Contributing Editor to Decanter. Her books include The Wines of Central and Southern Spain, The Wines of Northern Spain, Seville, Chocolate Unwrapped, and also the entries on Spain and Sherry for the annual Hugh Johnson Pocket Wine Guide. Sarah Jane received the Royal Order of Isabella the Catholic awarded by the King of Spain for her work for Spain. Beyond Spain, her special interests in wine are Greece, South America and the great fortified and sweet wines of the world.     To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/358.

One of the on-going themes with Wine Talks, with virtually all guests, is the idea that you never stop learning in the wine trade. I supposed you could say that about many industries, but wine carries with it the idea of the harvest; the surrounding conditions that otherwise would be called "terroir" when discussing the differences from one year to the next. And there in lies the "never stop learning" aspect of wine. Each year is different and each your your knowledge and curiosity is compounded. Tony Biagi relishes in this concept. He finds the will and the drive directly from the annual but perrenial unkowns when the next harvest arrives. We had an inspiring conversation at the Robert Mondavi tasting room in downtown Napa (a must stop when visiting). ony Biagi might claim his parents thought he was crazy for joining the wine world, but on this episode, it's clear that his unique path—from wrestling recruit to celebrated Napa winemaker—brings bold insight to every bottle he touches. You'll walk away with a fresh perspective on what really makes a wine legendary—not just the soil or variety, but the relentless curiosity and humility of those who tend the vines. Listen as Tony wrestles with the legacy of To Kalon, Napa's most storied vineyard, unraveling its mysteries alongside Paul Kalemkiarian. You'll learn how American and French traditions collide in the heart of California, why the freedom to experiment drives vintners across the Atlantic to our shores, and how the “Burgundianization” of Napa reflects a deeper search for identity and place. Tony lays bare the tension between making wine for the critics versus crafting honest, vintage-driven wines—the kind that can never quite be replicated and, like a great song or timeless meal, stir something primal in us all. Hear the unvarnished truth about organic farming, weathering adversity like wildfires, and how a single harvest offers but one shot each year to get it right. Find out why the energy in a morning vineyard or the quiet wisdom of mentors shapes every glass, and discover how genuine hospitality—not snobbery—keeps the wine world alive. By the end, you'll possess an insider's grasp of not only To Kalon's rarefied terroir and innovative spirit, but the soulful alchemy that endlessly draws winemakers and drinkers back to the table. Robert Mondavi Winery (owners of part of To Kalon Vineyard) Website: https://www.robertmondaviwinery.com Ridge Vineyards Website: https://www.ridgewine.com Ravenswood Winery Website: https://www.ravenswoodwinery.com PlumpJack Winery Website: https://www.plumpjackwinery.com Duckhorn Vineyards Website: https://www.duckhorn.com Hourglass Wine Company Website: https://www.hourglasswines.com Cade Estate Winery Website: https://www.cadewinery.com Chateau Cheval Blanc Website: https://www.chateau-cheval-blanc.com/en/ Harlan Estate Website: https://www.harlanestate.com Staglin Family Vineyard Website: https://www.staglinfamily.com Domaine Leflaive Website: https://www.domainedeflaive.com/en/ Dalla Valle Vineyards Website: https://www.dallavallevineyards.com Turley Wine Cellars Website: https://www.turleywinecellars.com Terravox (Missouri) Website: https://www.terravox.wine Wine Spectator (wine magazine frequently cited) Website: https://www.winespectator.com     #NapaValley #TonyBiagi #PaulKalemkiarian #winemaking #TokalonVineyard #terroir #CabernetSauvignon #CabernetFranc #organicfarming #vineyardhistory #winebusiness #wineratings #hospitality #winetourism #innovation #tradition #vintage #wineindustry #RobertMondavi #winetastingrooms  

Fancy a story about warriors, monks, family strife, an undercover grape variety, risking financial ruin for stubbornly sticking to stylistic guns, and deliciously drinkable fine wine?Thought you might. So join us as we get a privileged glimpse into the San Leonardo wine estate in Italy's northern Trentino Valley, not far from Verona and Lake Garda. Our guides are estate co-owner and manager Anselmo Guerrieri Gonzaga, Master of Wine Alex Hunt, and a bunch of pretty tasty bottles.San Leonardo makes a number of wines, all refined and understated. But it's best known for its top red, a discreet yet complex blend of Cabernet, Carmenere and Merlot. Despite being dubbed, 'The Sassicaia of the north', it's tended to fly under the radar, remaining something of an insider's tip, meaning the wine hasn't shot up in price as much as many of its more vaunted SuperTuscan cousins.Along the way, we discuss bodybuilders, banana plantations, wine as 'an energy drink', aubergines, Teroldego, hoodwinking bankers, 'Nordic' wine, how Carmenere came to Trentino and why Anselmo's dad Carlo called him, 'an idiot'. Thanks 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 E5 - San Leonardo: The Insider's GuideTo 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

How much of what we perceive about the taste of wine is actually shaped by psychology? Are vineyard soils important contributors to a wine's tasting profile? Why do so many wine producers highlight their soils as a unique factor that makes their wines stand out? Where do the “minerals” we taste in wine originate from? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Alex Maltman, author of the new book Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate: A Geologist Wanders Through the World of Wine. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Alex Maltman's terrific book, Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate. A Geologist Wanders Through the World of Wine. 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 did a Dutch research study show about identifying soil type through blind tasting? Is there any geological evidence to support volcanic soils imparting certain characteristics to wine? Why can vines access nutrients from soil but not larger rock layers? Should we consider the root stocks of vines and the type of yeast used for fermentation when analyzing the taste profile of a wine? How does consumer psychology influence our perception of the taste of wine? Which aspects of geology and wine is Alex planning to write about in the future? If Alex could share a bottle of wine with anyone outside the wine world, who would that be?   Key Takeaways How much of what we perceive about the taste of wine is actually shaped by psychology?  It's the psychology that people think, “Oh, heavy bottle. This must be a classy wine.” For many wine drinkers, what the wine expert says will override the more academic factors, rather like a clinician saying, take these tablets, you'll be better, if the wine authority says you're going to taste vanilla. Yeah, I'm getting vanilla. Are vineyard soils important contributors to a wine's tasting profile? In one experiment, several growers planted four different grape varieties, each in different soils, and then tried to grow the grapes, vinify the grapes uniformly, and then sent the finished wines off to a completely independent expert tasting panel. The panelists were only able to group the wines according to variety. Soils didn't come through at all.   For wine producers, soil is one of the only factors that are difficult to replicate, so they're going to say their soil is special. It's a great selling point. When some wine commentators are saying they're tasting minerals from the soil because it's been taken up by the vine root and transmitted through to the wine. Well, no, that doesn't happen like that. But in any case, any nutrients that were taken up by the vine root and did make it all the way through to the finished wine, almost certainly, in practice, will have originated in the humus.   About Dr. Alex Maltman Alex Maltman is Emeritus Professor of Earth Sciences at Aberystwyth University, in Wales, U.K. Alongside a decorated career in university teaching and research, Alex has for fifty years grown vines and made wine at his home. And through this, perhaps inevitably, he became interested in vineyard geology and its fashionable but poorly understood relationship with wine. This led to numerous publications in both the popular press and academic journals. Alex is the author of the acclaimed Vineyards, Rocks, and Soils: A Wine Lover's Guide to Geology and newly released Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate. A Geologist Wanders Through the World of Wine.     To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/357.

I can talk about this stuff for days. Get me on a high horse and it is off to the races. I've tasted more wines than most people could ever dare dream of—but what fascinates me isn't just what's in the glass. It's the stories behind the bottles, the regions, and the relentless passion it takes to survive and thrive in the wine trade. In this episode of Wine Talks, I share how a ritual-like discipline led me to taste over 100,000 wines, and what that journey has taught me about the constantly evolving wine industry. I'll take you inside Tuesday morning tastings, reveal why competitors sometimes secretly send each other cases of samples, and unpack how internet sales, supermarket scandals, and shifting consumer habits have redrawn the map of the wine world. But it's not just about business—I'll also show you how to navigate an overwhelming wine aisle with confidence by learning to decode the meaning woven into a label. I'll open a door to emerging wine regions like Armenia, where ancient traditions and native grapes are fighting for global recognition, much like Napa or Bordeaux once did. Along the way, I'll share unexpected stories—from unforgettable dining spots in Yountville, to vodka distilled from “second-chance” fruit, to boutique brands rewriting the rules of luxury. My goal is simple: to help you see wine in a whole new light. You'll leave this episode empowered to explore, enchanted by histories you never knew, and inspired to savor not just what's in your glass, but the human stories that bring it to life. #WineTalks #WinePodcast #PaulKalemkiarian #WineOfTheMonthClub #WineTasting #NapaValley #Yountville #StHelena #WineEducation #WineIndustry #ArmenianWine #WineRegions #WineExperience #WineTravel #WineStories #WineCulture #WineRecommendations #Winemaking #WineShops #WineVarietals

This Episode shares a firsthand account of some of my early wine-buying visits to top California wine producers in 1981 & 1982. It is just a small sample of what I encountered at a time when the early wine producers were just beginning to become well known on the East Coast, thanks to my and my best friend Jim Arseneault's efforts as we introduced them to our respective wine-loving consumer clients in Washington, D.C.I profile 3 wineries, Mayacamas Vineyards, Kistler, & La Crema Vinera. The latter is not to be confused with the wine producer known as La Crema today, which is owned by Jackson Family Wines.I know you will find this snippet informative and entertaining at the same time. Listen below or read the transcript.Thanks for being a listener to the Fine Wine Confidential Podcast. For more information go to www.finewineconfidential.com

Hirsch Vineyards, Fort Ross Seaview AVA, Pinot Noir, the San Andreas Fault and interview with Jasmine Hirsch of Hirsch Vineyards. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European & Asian sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in the world of California wine, chatting along the way with the key influencers in the industry who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Jasmine Hirsch of Hirsch Vineyards.

Why is geology essential for vineyard management but overrated when it comes to wine taste? Do soils get too much credit for wine flavour, when invisible factors might be the real drivers? What does “minerality” in wine really mean? Rock, nutrient, or just taste perception? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Alex Maltman, author of the terrific new book, Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate. A Geologist Wanders Through the World of Wine. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of Alex Maltman's terrific book, Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate. A Geologist Wanders Through the World of Wine. 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 good teacher spark Alex's lifelong fascination with geology? What initially attracted Alex to wine and how did his curiosity evolve over the past 50 years? How did Alex's background in geology support his career as a wine writer? In what ways does Alex's first book, Vineyards, Rocks and Soils, differ from his new book, Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate? Why does Alex believe that the influence of geology on wine is overstated in contrast to its influence on beer? What impact did geology have on how beer first developed? How do geological minerals, nutrient minerals, and the taste perception of minerality differ? What is the relevance of geological age to the growing vine in the bedrock? Does knowing the soil type of the vineyard tell us anything about the wine's characteristics? Why do so many wine drinkers and writers love to talk about geology? How has the concept of terroir been misunderstood and oversimplified? Why is it important to distinguish between the importance of geology for vineyard management versus its influence on the taste of wine in the glass?   Key Takeaways Am I tasting the limestone, smelling the slate? No, you can't. The grower needs to know about his soil. The geology will influence so many things in the vineyard, so the grower may well want to dig soil pits and see what the roots are doing to inform his vineyard management. But this is not the same thing as the flavor that develops in fermentation through to our wine glass. People look at, say, a hill slope with vines on it, and year after year, the wines from here always taste different to the wines from there. What's different? Oh, it's the soil. But at the same time, there's a whole host of invisible factors operating on that hill slope that we know these factors influence how grapes ripen and how the flavor precursors in the grape develop, which are going to go on to in the fermentation make the wine taste like it does. I tend to use the word geological mineral for those compounds that are making half of the vineyard soil and that come together to make rocks. And nutrient mineral, which are single elements, which we need, as well as vines, in order to function. And this word minerality, that's a taste perception. I don't know what it means or what causes it, but that's a different third meaning of the word mineral.   About Dr. Alex Maltman Alex Maltman is Emeritus Professor of Earth Sciences at Aberystwyth University, in Wales, U.K. Alongside a decorated career in university teaching and research, Alex has for fifty years grown vines and made wine at his home. And through this, perhaps inevitably, he became interested in vineyard geology and its fashionable but poorly understood relationship with wine. This led to numerous publications in both the popular press and academic journals. Alex is the author of the acclaimed Vineyards, Rocks, and Soils: A Wine Lover's Guide to Geology and newly released Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate. A Geologist Wanders Through the World of Wine.     To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/356.

The Armenian wine trade, like the rest of the wine world, has headwinds and maybe a bit more than the more established countries and regions where wine is well known and respected. You have to add to the mix of struggles; unknown grape varietals, no port of entry, unknown regions and 75 years of Soviet oppression. Enter Zara Muradyan; a wine romanticist and proud Armenian vintner. She is fast becoming the one to know in the wine trade out of Armenia and possibly single-handedly recruited the famed and infamous Concours Mondial de Bruxelles International wine tasting to Yerevan, Armenia in May of 2026.  It took a bit, but Wine Talks sat with Zara to hear her perspective. Zara Nuradyan can hardly believe it herself: in just fifteen years, Armenia has gone from a forgotten wine outpost—where the post-Soviet legacy meant brandy trumped wine—to a vibrant, world-class wine region inviting international acclaim. In this episode, you'll discover how Zara, the dynamic director of the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia and founder of Zara Wines, is not only championing Armenia's ancient winemaking heritage but also steering its modern renaissance. You'll hear how the country, armed with indigenous grapes like Areni and Voskahat, is shaking off its low-profile past to carve out a place on the international wine map—and why you might just see Armenian bottles on the tables of Tokyo, Los Angeles, or at your next masterclass. From government investment and educational initiatives to the role of diaspora and global tastings, Zara pulls back the curtain on how Armenia unites old-world traditions and new-world ambition, even courting major international competitions right in Yerevan. You'll get an insider's look at the challenges and headwinds, the heady joys of a growing industry, and the story of how passion, terroir, and a can-do spirit have created not just better wine, but a new cultural touchstone for Armenians at home and abroad. If you've ever doubted that a “brand new ancient” wine country could dazzle the global stage, Zara's journey will leave you uncorking more than a few assumptions—and maybe reaching for a bottle of something you've never tasted before. Zara Wines (founded by Zara Nuradyan) Website: Not specifically listed in the transcript, but based on the company name, the most likely official site is: https://zarawines.com/ Geisenheim University (collaborator in founding the Wine Academy in Armenia) Website: https://www.hs-geisenheim.de/ Karas Wines (a key Armenian wine producer mentioned) Website: https://karaswines.com/ Alexandria Winery (producer in Armenia) Website: https://alexandriawines.com/ Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia (Zara is the director) Website: https://armeniamwinefoundation.com/ or https://vwfa.am/ Icare Foundation (collaborator for the Wine Academy) Website: https://icare.am/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/4hLWvOPDjZw #ArmenianWine #WineIndustry #WineTourism #WineEducation #IndigenousGrapeVarieties #WineHistory #WineRenaissance #Armenia #WinePodcast #WineCulture #InternationalWineMarket #WineExport #WineFoundation #WineMaking #WinePromotion #WineEvents #WineFestivals #zarawines #zaramuradyan #WineInnovation

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

Fiona Morrison, Le Pin, PomerolAujourd'hui je suis heureux de partager avec vous notre première incursion à Pomerol. A cette occasion, nous avons décidé de frapper fort en visitant un domaine petit par la taille mais grand par la réputation. J'ai nommé Le Pin. Ses vins sont rares et peu d'entre nous ont eu la chance d'en goûter. C'est pour parler de ce domaine mythique, mais aussi de sa vie et de ses aventures viticoles que nous avons rencontré Fiona Morrison. Cette femme britannique, volubile et haute en couleurs, a une carrière riche et des anecdotes à la pelle. Je vous invite donc à vous laisser emporter par son accent et sa joie communicative comme je l'ai été. C'est un pur plaisir.Réalisation : Romain BeckerEnregistrement : Romain Becker, Florian NunezPost-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 vinHébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

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.

Volcanic soils account for only around one percent of the earth's surface, but they produce some of the world's most alluring wines explains John Szabo MS in his award -winning book, “Volcanic Wines- Salt, Grit and Power.” Szabo became Canada's first Master Sommelier in 2004. He is a partner and principal critic for WineAlign.com, Canada's largest wine publication, and a buyer for the WineAlign Exchange wine club. He co-hosts the podcast, Wine Thieves, with Sara d'Amato. Follow @johnszabomsThe Connected Table is broadcast live Wednesdays at 2PM ET and Music on W4CY Radio (www.w4cy.com) part of Talk 4 Radio (www.talk4radio.com) on the Talk 4 Media Network (www.talk4media.com).  The Connected Table Podcast is also available on Talk 4 Media (www.talk4media.com), Talk 4 Podcasting (www.talk4podcasting.com), iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, Audible, and over 100 other podcast outlets.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-connected-table-live--1277037/support.

Famed Chef Jonathan Waxman came to Wine Talks through a mutual friend who we lost last year to cancer; Melvin Masters was a one-of-a-kind character in the wine trade and Jonathans partner in the famed Jams Restaruarant.    On a recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee, I insisted that the group I was with follow me to Roberts Western (most probably the last true country bar in Nashville), for a fried bologna sandwich. They looked at me crosseyed and followed blindly. You see, we had just finished dinner and everyone had overeaten and were tired. But I knew if I didn't go the first night we were there, I wouldn't make it.  Pray tell, why would one do that? Well, if Jonathan Waxman says the first thing he did was take famed Italian Chef Giada De Laurentiis to experience the $5 fried bologna sandwich. Who shouldn't? A slice of flat top freid bologna between two pieces of white bread with a side of Lays potatoe chips, I was in hog heaven. Add a PBR, and you are off to the races. Jonathan Waxman is the kind of chef who can turn a honky tonk fried bologna sandwich in Nashville into high culinary art, then philosophize about the virtues of a perfectly marbled 1961 steak—all before your first glass of Beaujolais is finished. In this episode, you'll discover the inner workings of an acclaimed chef's mind as Jonathan shares the flavors, friendships, and formative experiences that shaped his career. You'll hear about how “wine comes first, food comes second” became his guiding principle, the serendipitous plane rides sourcing lamb and lobster for legendary winery dinners, and the awe-inspiring meals in the kitchens of France that sparked his lifelong passion for simplicity and flavor. Alongside host Paul Kalemkiarian, Jonathan revisits the rollicking days at Michael's and Jams, brushes elbows with food world icons from Alice Waters to Melvin Masters, and reveals the quiet intensity required to survive and thrive in the high-wire environment of fine dining. From the intricacies of nouvelle cuisine to the rainbow of immigrant influences shaping American food culture, you'll gain an insider's appreciation for the nuances of restaurant evolution, the subtle art of pairing local wines with regional dishes, and the uncompromising drive that keeps chefs inventing and adapting—even when the world turns upside down. Whether you're curious how the Michelin Guide still shapes a restaurant's fortunes, or just want to know what it's like to be mentored by legends while flying by the seat of your pants, this episode peels back the layers of taste, tradition, and tenacity, one delicious story at a time. Jordan Winery https://www.jordanwinery.com Willie's Wine Bar (Paris) https://www.willieswinebar.com Chez Panisse https://www.chezpanisse.com Domaine Chandon https://www.chandon.com Bordeaux Wine Region https://www.bordeaux.com Napa Valley https://www.visitnapavalley.com Michael's Santa Monica https://www.michaelssantamonica.com Barbuto https://www.barbutonyc.com Jams (NYC) https://www.jamsrestaurant.nyc Wally's Wine & Spirits https://www.wallywine.com Blue Hill https://www.bluehillfarm.com Daily Provisions (NYC) https://www.dailyprovisionsnyc.com Lutèce (Historic, closed, for reference) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lut%C3%A8ce_(restaurant) L'Orangerie (Historic, closed, Los Angeles) https://www.classiccafela.com/lorangerie/ Spago (Wolfgang Puck's Restaurant) https://wolfgangpuck.com/dining/spago-beverly-hills/ Mi Piace (Pasadena, CA) https://www.mipiace.com Campanile (Historic, closed, Los Angeles) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Campanile_(restaurant) Union Pasadena https://www.unionpasadena.com Benno (NYC) https://www.bennonyc.com French Culinary Institute/New York French Cooking School (now Institute of Culinary Education) https://www.ice.edu Le Cordon Bleu https://www.cordonbleu.edu Monterey Bistro (Historic, closed) https://www.seemonterey.com/listings/monterey-bistro/1197/ Ritz Paris Place Vendôme  https://www.ritzparis.com          #WineTalks #JonathanWaxman #PaulKalemkiarian #ChefInterview #FoodAndWinePairing #RestaurantStories #Barbuto #JamsRestaurant #ChezPanisse #AmericanCuisine #ItalianCuisine #WineCulture #MichelinStars #CulinaryInspiration #FoodHistory #ImmigrantInfluence #WineTasting #RestaurantIndustry #NouvelleCuisine #CulinaryMentorship #WineExperiences #PBR #bolognasandwich #giada #giadadelaurentiis

Jancis Robinson is a wine superstar. But in this concluding episode of our two-part exclusive interview, we want to get behind the sparkling achievements and get to know Jancis in a personal as well as professional sense. The result is thought-provoking, funny and occasionally eye-opening.We kick off, somewhat unsportingly, by springing a quick-fire question round at Jancis before moving on to discuss everything from the Queen to influencers, negotiating with lawyers in a swimsuit, Cumbria, anorexia, regenerative viticulture, bottle weights, cans - and other hot potatoes.We also explore how she presciently set up her subscription-based website in 2000 then successfully sold it 21 years later. A rare commercial success in the world of wine...If you haven't caught the first instalment of this interview, please do check it out. You don't need to listen to that one, though, in order to enjoy this one.Thanks 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 E3 - The Jancis Robinson EXCLUSIVE - Part 2To 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

In this snippet from my upcoming book, I share a story about my first time on the streets of New York, calling on accounts and selling William Hill wines in only the second week after I had taken the position as VP of Sales for the Eastern Division at William Hill Winery. Some Division, I was a one-man show and responsible for half of the country east of the Mississippi. In this episode, I detail my account call at the famous Sparks Steakhouse in Manhattan. It would become even more infamous a year later when Paul (Big Paul) Castellano would be whacked sitting in his car outside of the restaurant in a Mob-related reputedly ordered by John Gotti.This account call posed an immediate challenge to both my instincts and sales ability. However, I put to the test what I believed based on my experience, and that was, most people buy wine based on the way it smells, not on how it tastes.Take a listen or read the transcript.Thanks for being a listener to the Fine Wine Confidential Podcast. For more information go to www.finewineconfidential.com

The good stuff is at the top of the hill@chandon @chandonusa @postandbeamwinery @maris_wines @chappellet_winery #wine #napavalley #podcast #radioshowCo hosts : Good ol Boy Harmeet, Good ol Boy Justin, Made Man BobSIPS – Get ready for an engaging journey through some exquisite wines from Napa Valley! In this episode, our hosts dive into a delightful lineup featuring Chandon's iconic sparkling wines, including the Chandon Brut and Brut Rosé, followed by a selection of robust reds from Post and Beam and Maris. They'll also explore the luxurious Chappellet Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, a true gem from the region.With plenty of laughter, spirited discussions, and detailed tasting notes, our hosts will rate each wine on a scale from 1 to 5, sharing their impressions and perfect food pairings along the way. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your exploration, this episode promises to be both entertaining and informative!7:35 CHANDON Brut California3 SIPS11:43 CHANDON Brut Rose California4 SIPS19:09 Post and Beam Carneros Chardonnay 20234 SIPS23:44 Post and Beam Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 20224 SIPS28:27 Merus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 20194 SIPS32:58 Chappellet Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 20215 SIPSinfo@sipssudsandsmokes.comX- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokesSips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Enjoying that cool Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back RoadsDownload your copy here:https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing / FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)COURTESY OF: AudioSparxTITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry WhiteheadPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry WhiteheadPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, & PodBeanProducer: Made Man BobExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeWine Tasting, Sparkling Wine, Chandon Brut California, Chandon Brut Rose, Napa Valley Wines, Post And Beam Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Wine Ratings, Wine Reviews, Wine Pairing, Wine Enthusiasts, Wine Education, Wine Culture, Wine And Food, Wine Producers, Wine Regions, Wine History, Wine Tasting Notes, Wine Recommendations, Wine Podcast

ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European & Asian sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in the world of California wine, chatting along the way with the key influencers in the industry who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Trey Fletcher, senior winemaker, Sanford Winery. 

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.

Not of all wine news is about a drop in sales or activity...wine tourism is up.  On Wine Talks I regularly discuss the idea that wine is headed back in time to the days where the experience of wine is driving the interest in wine. Winery tastings, wine pairing dinners, day long wine excursions and more are peaking the interest in not only wine enthusiasts but wine novices the same. One destination that is working hard at luring wine travel is Armenia. I have keen interest in understanding the value of and the current climate of wine tourism in my country of heritage. Lilit Gregoryan is on the forefront of the movement and we had a chance to catch up and discuss the current state of Armenian wine travel. I have to tell you, sitting down (virtually, in this case) with Lilit Grigoryan for this episode of Wine Talks was one of those conversations that leaves you thinking long after you hit “stop recording.” Now, I'll let you in on a little behind-the-scenes secret: this was our third crack at getting the tech to play nice for a clear connection between sunny Southern California and Yerevan, Armenia. You could say we worked up a thirst before we even started talking wine. Right from the get-go, Lilit came in with the big picture view—“Winemaking and wine are rooted as a nation in our DNA.” That statement stuck with me. For all the talk we have about terroir, varietals, and fancy cellaring techniques, sometimes you need a reminder that, in places like Armenia, wine's not just a beverage or even an export—it's part of the cultural bedrock. She made the bold and very true point: Armenia isn't just learning from Europe; it's reminding Europe, and the world, where winemaking really started. What really fascinated me was her work in building up the Council of Enotourism. Now, enotourism anywhere is having its moment, and Armenia is no exception. I'll admit, I ended up tumbling down memory lane—remembering road trips that started off about something else (the Monaco Grand Prix, in my case) and somehow veered, as everything in my life seems to, straight into wine country. The magic of enotourism, Lilit pointed out, is that it's about more than tasting rooms. It's about connecting public, private, and even academic stakeholders—guides, wineries, archeologists, whole communities—to put Armenia back on the wine map. There's a humility that runs deep in Armenian winemakers, which, as Lilit mentioned, maybe ought to be set aside for a bit of healthy self-promotion. Why not, when you have 6,100-year-old wine caves that literally rewrite the history of viticulture? This is a nation where, she told me, even the rituals carved into fourth- and sixth-century churches tell the story of wine's place in life and faith. “We are the shoulders that the Old World stands on.” I scribbled that down—it's one for the ages. We got into some wine geek talk (couldn't resist)—about amphora and the ancient methods now making a comeback from Bordeaux to California. Funny thing, the rest of the world calls it trendy; for Armenians, it's just Tuesday. And I had to laugh—she talked about roadside wine in Coke bottles, and yeah, in 2007, I could barely choke down what I found. But the leap in quality is astounding. Armenian winemakers today are winning international gold medals! You can feel the pride simmering up—and frankly, that's as it should be. Lilit's also candid about the challenges—lack of unity among stakeholders, the need for more education, and the always-present tension of getting government support. Reminded me of local feuds in the LA trade; everyone wants the same thing, but getting consensus? It's like herding cats with corkscrews. But what I love most is her conviction: this is a marathon, not a sprint. Armenians have always been resilient—she's sure, and so am I, that Armenia's renaissance is just getting started. And let's not forget, she humbly attributes her passion to being “one cheeky university girl” drinking wine with her friends, which, honestly, is how the best careers begin. Lilit is creating a movement, and you can feel it—one that won't just put Armenian wine on the table but will make it impossible for the world to ignore. So, next time you're reaching for something old-world or new-world, remember Lilit's words: “We are ancient world.” And maybe, just maybe, it's time to pour Armenia into your next glass.   Wines of Armenia Organization: "Wines of Armenia" (NGO) Website: https://winesofarmenia.am/ eNoturos / Council of Enotourism in Armenia Organization: eNoturos, Council of Enotourism in Armenia Website: There is not a direct website publicly available from the information provided in the transcript at this time. Areni-1 Foundation Organization: Areni-1 Foundation (involved with the Areni-1 cave) Website: There is not a direct website publicly available from the information provided in the transcript at this time, but general information on the Areni-1 cave can be viewed here: http://www.areniwinery.com/ (Areni Wine Factory), though this is not an official page for the "Areni-1 Foundation." Wine and Vine Foundation of Armenia Organization: Wine and Vine Foundation of Armenia Website: https://armeniandrinks.com/en/wine-foundation Zatik Wine Festival Event organized by Wines of Armenia Website: Not directly available; may be found through Wines of Armenia's site or social media. Enofest/Enotalks Event by EnoTourism Council Website: Not directly available; check Wines of Armenia for events: https://winesofarmenia.am/ Global Wine Tourism Organization Organization referenced as the global enotourism network Website: https://gwto.org/ Cordy Brothers / Corti Brothers Referred to as a famous wine shop in Sacramento Website: https://www.cortibrothers.com/ Massanois Imports Mentioned as a wine distributor Website: https://www.massanois.com/   #wine #winetalks #armenianwine #enotouris, #winedna #armenia #ancientwine #wineheritage #wineducatio, #wineculture #winerenaissance #wineindustry #armenianculture #foodandwine #winehistory #winesofarmenia #winemaking #viticulture #winetourism #armenianhospitality

Audrey Thomas, Château Reverdi, Listra-Médoc, BordeauxExplorer le bordelais aujourd'hui, c'est se confronter, non seulement à la bonne qualité de beaucoup de vins, mais aussi aux grandes difficultés commerciales de nombreux producteurs. C'est pour tenter de comprendre ce paradoxe et les solutions possibles que je vous propose cet épisode avec Audrey Thomas. J'ai rencontré Audrey à Listrac-Médoc, au château Reverdi, qu'elle dirige avec son frère Thomas. Alors que leur premier vin, dont j'ai spécialement aimé le millésime 2020 en dégustation à l'aveugle, est devenu Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel en début d'année, le domaine voit ses ventes peiner très sérieusement. A tel point que l'arrachage de certaines parcelles est devenu l'ultime solution pour réduire les coûts de production. Audrey a accepté de répondre à toutes mes questions, à coeur ouvert et je l'en remercie sincèrement car leur situation est particulièrement délicate. Réalisation : Romain BeckerEnregistrement : Romain Becker, Florian NunezPost-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 vinHébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Jancis Robinson is without doubt the leading wine writer in the world today. But what's she really like behind the (highly) professional façade? Join us in this fascinating two-parter to meet the real Jancis: unfiltered, frank and sometimes really quite eye-opening...In this interview, we wanted to do something different from the many other profiles of this wine superstar. For instance, Jancis' wine scores are famously parsimonious, her reviews sometimes brutal (the best she could write about one wine was, 'it's wet'). So does she really enjoy drinking wine? What's she like when she's tipsy? How do her wine friends tease her? How did she cope when she lost her sense of smell and feared her career was over? Does she really think she's 'addicted' to the stuff?!Along the way, Jancis talks about what the perfect wine tasting note might be (it may surprise you); her horror of boring people about wine (and seeming 'bought'); and what she thinks the best value wines in the world are right now. She also addresses controversial topics like wine scores, Robert Parker and the Pavie 2003 spat, wine price inflation - and wine bores.In the next and concluding part (available to Wine Blast PLUS subscribers now), we spring a quick-fire question round on Jancis, and touch on subjects from the Queen to influencers, setting up then successfully selling her website, negotiating with lawyers in a swimsuit, Cumbria, anorexia, regenerative viticulture, cans - and other hot potatoes. Don't miss it!Thanks 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 E2 - The Jancis Robinson EXCLUSIVE - Part 1To 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

The wines of the Monterey Peninsula, and particularly those of the Carmel Valley, are exquisite. It is always just so interesting to have the some grape grown in different parts of the world and be so different...soely on the location and environmental influences of the vineyard. When tasting Bernardus wines, you taste complexities entirely different than anywhere else in California. These wines are something special and Jim McCabe is responsible. I also had to alert him to the famed folk guitar store, McCabes in Santa Monica. You might say Jim McCabe's side hustle—building guitars—makes him a craftsman twice over, but it's his day job as winemaker at Bernardus Winery that will have you tuning your curiosity to new frequencies. In this episode of Wine Talks, I invites you to uncork not just bottles, but the entire lived experience of crafting wine in California's stunning Carmel Valley. You'll learn why great wine isn't just about the grapes, but the ebb and flow of history, land, and a willingness to embrace both tradition and careful, gradual innovation. Jim doesn't just talk barrel aging or fermentation science; he brings you to the heart of winemaking's enduring mysteries—the art of blending picks from different harvest moments, the challenge of warding off smoke taint during wildfire years, and the ever-changing dance with nature that means no two vintages are ever the same. What does it take to draw younger generations to honest wine when technology and taste are shifting faster than vines grow? Jim and I candidly dissect the battle between old-school storytelling and the rise of social influencers, while reflecting on the timelessness of grassroots, word-of-mouth enthusiasm. Along the way, you'll pick up on the slow, patient work behind the scenes—why relationships with grape growers matter, why incremental rather than drastic change is key, and how history and tradition shape every bottle. By the end of the conversation, you'll come away with more than the technical notes of Bernardus' famed Pinots and Chardonnays; you'll understand the emotional charge that a simple sniff of a great wine can trigger, and why, whether you're a seasoned sommelier or new to the wine world, this is a craft that always keeps you guessing, learning, and savoring just one more glass. Bernardus Winery Website: https://www.bernardus.com Hotel Amarano Website: https://www.hotelamarano.com McCabe's Guitar Shop Website: https://www.mccabes.com   #winepodcast #CarmelValley #MontereyPeninsula #BernardusWinery #PaulKalemkiarian #JimMcCabe #winemaking #wineindustry #boutiquewineries #winemakerstories #winehistory #vineyardmanagement #wineinfluencers #socialmediawine #SauvignonBlanc #PinotNoir #Chardonnay #winetourism #winetasting #winetrends #mccabesguitarshop    

Ahead of Season Seven, we have an announcement! We're finally launching subscriptions - a very exciting moment as we aim to take Wine Blast to the next level and spread EVEN MORE wine love around.Subscribers to Wine Blast PLUS will receive Early Access to all episodes as well as Archive Access as our back catalogue becomes subscriber-only. We'll also be throwing in the occasional bonus episode just for subscribers.Those who join Wine Blast Plus will also be enabling Wine Blast to continue and grow. It takes an absurd amount of work to make the show happen, as loyal listeners will know, and it's just us. With your backing, we can start to think about more regular or new kinds of episodes to community features, video content and beyond. The sky's the limit! But we need your support to make it happen.To subscribe, follow this link to Wine Blast Plus.It's all very straightforward and there should be no change to your listening experience.We're also offering Early Birds a 15% discount on initial headline subscription prices. (Just use the code magnum25 - and it's a time-limited offer, so don't hang around!)If you do have any questions or issues, please contact help@supportingcast.fmYou can find show notes for this episode, including links, on our website via this link: Wine Blast S7 Trailer

In this episode I share a story about one of the actions I took early in my career that change the course for me. It was 1979 and I had just been hired 5 months before at a Retail Wine Merchant in Washington, DC. I was promoted by the owner of A & A Wine & Spirits, Harry Cook, to be the American Wine Department manager. I wanted to test him right away to see if I had both the responsibility in this new position, along with most importantly the authority to order for purchase the wine I believed we needed to build our selection into one of the finest in the city.It was quite the test, and he passed. I believe you will enjoy this brief excerptThanks for being a listener to the Fine Wine Confidential Podcast. For more information go to www.finewineconfidential.com

How can vines for wine thrive in Mount Etna's rocky, volcanic soils on the island of Sicily? Mount Etna is a perpetual baby in terms of its vineyard soils; constant rejuvenation of the soil through ash and lava impacts the vine's health and the resulting grape characteristics. The lava flows are centuries old and vary widely. So, how would a producer choose one flow over another for planting? How does Mount Etna still have pre-phylloxera vines that are over 200 years old? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Ben Spencer, the award-winning author of The New Wines of Mount Etna. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Highlights Why did Ben find Fabio Costantino of Terra Costantino such a fascinating and emblematic person from Etna's wine community? What is the landscape of Mount Etna like, and what makes it unique and beautiful? How do producers on Etna choose which lava flow to plant on? What does it look like to grow grapes in a place as fertile as on Etna? How do Etna wines compare with other volcanic wines? Are field blends of different grape varieties still common in Etna's vineyards? How does Nerello Mascalese compare to Pinot Noir grapes? Why is Nerello Cappuccio mostly used in blends rather than as a single varietal wine? How does Carricante, Etna's signature white grape, develop the kerosene or petrol aroma often found in aged Riesling? What were some of the oldest vines Ben has seen on Mount Etna? How can you get the most out of a trip to Etna? Who would Ben love to share a bottle of wine with?   Key Takeaways How can vines for wine thrive in Mount Etna's rocky, volcanic soils on the island of Sicily? It's very, very fertile and you can plant just about anything. The vines are only part of that biodiversity. You can put a grafted vine selection, masala, cutting from your own vineyard into the earth. What it taps into will sort of define what that vine will be. We see 95% of the vines take because the soil is so fertile. Mount Etna's lava flows are centuries old and vary widely. How would a producer choose one flow over another for planting? Sometimes it's a simple budgetary decision or a farming decision, whether to take over an old vine vineyard or to buy something and replant new vines, whether you want to face the contours of the mountain, or if you want to ease into it with tractor or some sort of mechanized labor, not that many producers do much more than use a tractor in the vineyard, it's very difficult to use heavy machinery on it, and everybody harvests by hand. But certain contrada, certain lava flows, the age of the soil, the slope, east, north, south, they have different flavors. They have different spices, and it's all that lasagna layering of the mountain. It has its own style. How does Mount Etna still have pre-phylloxera vines that are over 200 years old? On Etna, we don't have a lot of clay. So we do have these very, very old vines. The soils need about 3% clay to incubate phylloxera over the winter. And so the soil isn't old enough to have that much clay in it. There's also the snow up at elevation, so it's just inhospitable to the louse. But the oldest vines that I've seen are either Nerello Mascalese or possibly Minnella. The trunks can get really, really big. They can get really long. They look like they're prehistoric.   About Benjamin Spencer Benjamin Spencer is the Director of Etna Wine School and the award-winning author of The New Wines of Mount Etna. In addition to holding a Diploma from the London-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Ben is a journalist, wine judge, and a professional winemaker with two decades of experience working with artisan and internationally traded wine brands in California and Italy.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/353.

A few years ago, a young woman was interning at the Original Wine of the Month Club. Her internship revolved around social networking, office duties, and one particular job that may have set her career path. Lisa Kassabian was to write the talking points for all my podcasts that featured a woman in wine.  She would research the guest, write up peritnent points, present the to me and together we would redirect or correct. When that work was completed, Lisa was invited on set to hear how her questions worked and how the guest would respond. Maybe I had something to do with it, it would certainly make sense...because eventually, Lisa became an Enology student at Cornell University.  At the University, all students in this curriculum are required to do an internship before they graduate. This is the story of Lisa's internship at the famed Chateau Haut Bailly. For sure, if you want to know the insights a young wine Enology student might gain from the academic side and the practical side of wine...this is the episode. Lisa Kassabian never expected that an afterschool “All About Grapes” club would spark a journey from a Los Angeles vineyard to the heart of Bordeaux. In this episode of Wine Talks, you'll discover how a childhood passion for science—and a hobby vineyard at home—led Lisa from California to Cornell, and ultimately, to an eye-opening internship in France. You'll gain a rare behind-the-scenes view of the very real intersections between wine, science, and culture, as Lisa reveals how pruning and fermentation chemistry connect to centuries of tradition. Listen closely and you'll learn what really happens when theory meets the terroir: from tackling grapevine netting and barrel racking to navigating French hospitality, language barriers, and immaculate cellars. Through Lisa's first-hand stories, you'll hear what distinguishes French winemaking—the meticulous attention to detail, relentless innovation, and deep cultural ties that set Bordeaux apart from Napa. Ever wonder what it's like to balance the academic rigor of soil science classes with tasting your family's Sauvignon Blanc in sunny California? Or how it feels to pour wine at a charity gala in a historic French château? This episode peels back the reality of building a global wine career, from landing international internships to learning the business beyond the classroom, and even discovering which French pastries pair best with your morning commute. By the end, you'll understand not only the pathways women are carving into the industry, but also why every bottle holds a world of stories, science, and adventure—a revelation sure to inspire future vintners and aficionados alike.   Cornell University https://www.cornell.edu   UC Davis (University of California, Davis) https://www.ucdavis.edu   Château Haut-Bailly https://www.haut-bailly.com   Sequoia Grove Winery https://www.sequoiagrove.com   Smith Haut Lafitte https://www.smith-haut-lafitte.com   Château Lynch-Bages https://www.lynchbages.com   Château Giscours https://www.giscours.com #wineTalks #LisaKassabian #PaulKalemkiarian #viticulture #enology #CornellUniversity #wineinternship #ChateauHautBailly #Bordeaux #NapaValley #womeninwine #Frenchwine #wineeducation #vineyardmanagement #winemaking #winescience #Frenchculture #wineindustry #winecareers #winepodcast  

VINTAGE EPISODE: Mr Brightside, crafting gamay, pick-up basketball, a walking zombie, John Steinbeck, the Killers and interview with Tim Fulnecky, Mr Brightside Wines. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in the world of California wine, chatting along the way with the key influencers in the industry who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Tim Fulnecky, Mr Brightside Wines. 

How do elevation and slope influence the style of volcanic wines of Mount Etna? What can volcanic wine made on Mount Etna in Sicily teach us about life? How is Mount Etna's wine scene evolving? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Ben Spencer, the award-winning author of The New Wines of Mount Etna. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Highlights Which aspects of Ben's first trip to Sicily in 2007 left a lasting impression? What stood out about Ben's first experience tasting Etna wine in Sicily? Which early experience exploring Etna's vineyards fundamentally changed Ben's understanding of the region and its wines? What do the wines of Etna show us about the relationship between winemaking and life? What are the biggest differences between winemaking in California and Etna, outside of terroir? What does the future look like for Etna wine? Are there limitations to the Etna DOC classification and what is the viable elevation range for vineyards? How do the wine characteristics vary between vines grown in different areas of the mountain? How do the periodic eruptions affect the soil in the vineyards on the slopes of Mount Etna? What was Ben's vision for the Etna Wine School and which programs are now available? How did Ben's poetry background influence his transition into wine writing? What can you expect from reading The New Wines of Mount Etna? What was the most surprising thing Ben discovered while writing The New Wines of Mount Etna? Why was researching the book particularly challenging for Ben?   Key Takeaways How do elevation and slope influence the style of volcanic wines of Mount Etna? At lower elevations, we're seeing more ripeness, earlier ripening, more boldness in the fruit. You see more opulent wines at lower elevations. Also, on the south slope, you're getting more development in the growing season because of the way the sun passes from the east along the south slope. The North Slope, we see a little bit more deflected light, especially in the shoulder seasons, so early spring and fall, and so you're getting more elegance. What can volcanic wine made on Mount Etna in Sicily teach us about life? To be patient, to watch, to listen, to learn from what's happening here, and to learn from everybody, because everybody has a different take on what's happening. Etna always moves outside of what we expect it to be. In the glass, we see a white wine, but all of a sudden there's white jasmine and orange flower together in the same field, and there's this juicy fruit and salinity and savory herbs and saltiness, and you get some repeated elements. How is Mount Etna's wine scene evolving? With Etna being at the beginning of a new wave of production, we are seeing a lot of people trying to define what that is, what Etna can be and will be. It'll be a study of the different elevations, of the different soil types, of the different districts where the wines are being made. But also Etna is a 10,000 foot tall cone. So there's a lot of different aspects to mountain wind, to sunlight, to the sea breezes, to old soils, young soils, and so there's a lot of things happening. So I think Etna will become a benchmark for variety, for exciting wines made from Carricante, the white grape variety here, and also Nerello mascalese, the red grape, which is made into sparkling wines, Rosés and red wines quite successfully.   About Benjamin Spencer Benjamin Spencer is the Director of Etna Wine School and the award-winning author of The New Wines of Mount Etna. In addition to holding a Diploma from the London-based Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Ben is a journalist, wine judge, and a professional winemaker with two decades of experience working with artisan and internationally traded wine brands in California and Italy.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/352.

I have been hanging around the South Bay beaches since my youth. Maybe you caught my Instagram posts about how that happened. As a family, we spent much of our time in Hermosa Beach; I love the SoCal beach culture. There is an established group of restaurants under the moniker of Chef David Slay. He is a bit of an anomoly in that he has been a chef since his 20's (so well established in that sense), but at the same time, a rising star (usually an accolade for chefs just starting their career). Our conversation was fluid and full of insights. I have to say, sitting down with Chef David Slay for this episode of Wine Talks was a real eye-opener—and honestly, a relief in a business that's changing faster than most of us care to admit. We met up down in Hermosa Beach, a little outside my usual zone, which always seems to lend itself to looser conversation. There's no pretense with David; what you see is what you get, and that made for an episode full of straight talk. We kicked things off on common ground—hot yoga, of all things. You'd think two guys from the food and wine world would bond over Burgundy or beef carpaccio, but no, it's sweating it out in the same studio, talking about how houses and restaurants are being remodeled and how somehow, hot yoga becomes as much therapy as exercise. There's something grounding about that, and it set the tone for the rest of our conversation. What I appreciate about David is his clear-eyed view of the industry. He doesn't look at the shift in wine preferences or restaurant trends with nostalgia or bitterness. Instead, he recognizes that consumer tastes have changed, and he's made it a point to adjust right along with them. “I make wine for what the consumer wants, not for what my taste is,” he says—and you can tell he means it. That's rare. For some in the business, adapting is an insult to tradition. For David, it's just good sense. He describes older guests coming in with big Italians and Bordeauxs, while younger tables are ordering orange wine and lower-alcohol options. Rather than resist, he's leaned in, updating his own winemaking and keeping his wine lists relevant. David also spoke candidly about the business realities—shrinking wine lists, higher prices, and changing buying habits. The days of bragging about a 350-bottle inventory are gone; he's pared it down to 150 because that's what works now. What isn't moving gets cut, and what sells gets the spotlight. He's refreshingly honest about costs, average bottle prices, and even how certain cult wines just don't have the cachet with younger drinkers anymore. Running restaurants, building a wine brand, and surviving the post-COVID landscape takes more than passion. David's approach—focus on quality, pay your people right, and stay involved every day—seems to be the formula. I especially respect how he talks about his crew; he'd rather pay a dishwasher above the norm and keep staff long-term than deal with constant turnover. It's practical, but it's also the right thing to do. When we talked about food and wine, he's got the same data-driven but thoughtful outlook. He doesn't buy into the old dogma about pairings; instead, he sees the restaurant as a place where anything goes, as long as the customer has a good experience. Honestly, it was one of those episodes that reminded me what I like about this business—the moments where you drop the sales pitch and get real about what's working, what's not, and what it means to stay relevant without selling out. David Slay is exactly the kind of guest that keeps me hungry for the next conversation. Arthur J Website: https://thearthurj.com/ Slay Restaurants (Slay Steak & Fish House, Slay Italian Kitchen, Slay Hermosa, Fête French Bistro) Website: https://slayrestaurants.com/ Dragonette Cellars (mentioned as a Pinot Noir and Chardonnay producer) Website: https://www.dragonettecellars.com/ Daou Vineyards (DAOU Family Estates) Website: https://daouvineyards.com/ Caymus Vineyards (Wagner Family of Wine) Website: https://www.caymus.com/ Silver Oak Cellars Website: https://www.silveroak.com/ Phelps Insignia (Joseph Phelps Vineyards) Website: https://www.josephphelps.com/ Wine of the Month Club Website: https://www.wineofthemonthclub.com/ Greystone (The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone) Website: https://www.ciachef.edu/cia-california/ Chez Panisse (Alice Waters' restaurant, mentioned in context) Website: https://www.chezpanisse.com/ Moza (Osteria Mozza, Nancy Silverton) Website: https://www.osteriamozza.com/ Chateau Bailly (Château Bouscaut in Pessac-Léognan was likely meant, context: internship in Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux) Website: https://www.chateau-bouscaut.com/   #winepodcast #restaurantindustry #ChefDavidSlay #PaulK #ManhattanBeach #HermosaBeach #winetrends #wineandfoodpairing #winelist #GenZWine #CaliforniaCuisine #restaurantbusiness #wineconsumption #hospitalityindustry #Frenchcooking #seasonalingredients #wineclubs #winebusiness #SlayWines #cheflegacy

Angélique de Lencquesaing, IdealwineIdealwine fait désormais partie du paysage viticole depuis 25 ans. C'est pour retracer cette belle aventure entrepreneuriale que j'ai accepté leur proposition de partenariat autour d'une interview avec Angélique de Lencquesaing. Co-fondatrice de l'entreprise avec Cyril Jomand et Lionel Cuenca en 2000, elle a su, avec ses associés, faire de cette PME une référence mondiale des enchères en ligne et de la vente de vin. Alors accrochez-vous car il est l'heure de remonter le temps avec Angélique et de parler des fixation des prix, de tendances de marché et surtout de passion pour le vin.Merci à toutes les équipes d'Idealwine de soutenir Le Bon Grain de l'Ivresse.Réalisation : Romain BeckerPost-production : Emmanuel NappeyMusique originale : Emmanuel DoréGraphismes : ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Léna Mazilu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Retrouvez aussi Le Bon Grain de l'Ivresse sur le ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠web⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ sur ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ et sur ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On se retrouve très vite pour de nouvelles aventures viticoles. D'ici-là éclatez-vous et buvez bon !Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Enotoursim has been a staple in the tourism trade. One of my favorite podcast was with XXX Duput, the woman who delivered the wines from Napa to Steven Spurrier in Paris for the Judgement In Paris. She was the leading Enotourist company in America.  As time would have it, Enotourism had seen its days, slumping a bit for the past decade...until now. Though wine sales are off and the wine industry is scurrying to define the cause of this slump, enotourism could save the day. Meet Bill Callejas, he is grassroots and has created an enotourism company from sheer passion. Bill Callejas didn't just stumble into wine tourism—he reverse-engineered it from the ground up, blending the precision of his production background with a storyteller's flair and an explorer's curiosity. You'll be hard pressed to find a more nuanced perspective on wine travel, or a more convincing case for ditching those cookie-cutter tours. In this episode, you'll discover the real difference between “just another wine trip” and a thoughtfully crafted, immersive journey that brings you shoulder-to-shoulder with winemakers, artisans, and even the family matriarch preparing your meal. Bill reveals how he and his partners built World Wine Destinations around the idea that travel and wine are each a world unto themselves—each deserving of respect, intention, and creative design. Listeners will learn how each trip is structured like a multi-day live show, full of distinct characters, rising action, and the slow burn of discovery that comes from tasting with local experts in quiet, off-the-map villages. Expect revelations on why genuine wine travel can't—and shouldn't—be “dumbed down,” why asking winemakers about their intention often leads to the best stories, and how wine acts as a cultural glue, binding food, land, history, and people in an experience you can literally taste. Whether it's the ancient amphorae of Greece, the wild terroir of Argentina, or the unexpected intimacy of Paso Robles, you'll come away with an appreciation for how travel, when done right, changes not just what's in your glass, but who you are as a drinker and a global citizen. Buckle up—one glass at a time, you'll learn how the story of wine is best lived, not just told. ✅ Think you know wine travel? Think again. ✅ Discover how storytelling and immersive experiences are redefining wine tourism. ✅ On this episode of Wine Talks, host Paul Kalemkiarian sits down with Bill Callejas of World Wine Destinations to reveal why their unique approach skips the cookie-cutter tours and takes you straight into the heart—and the culture—of the world's top wine regions. ✅ If you thought wine was just about tasting, you haven't heard the stories that bring each glass to life. Hit play and get ready to plan your next adventure (and maybe reimagine what a wine trip can be)! World Wine Destinations Website: https://www.worldwinedestinations.com Corner Wines (Plano, Texas) Website: https://www.cornerwines.com   #winepodcast #winetourism #winetravel #wineculture #worldwinedestinations #BillCallejas #PaulKalemkiarian #winestories #winemakers #winetasting #culturalexperiences #wineregions #wineeducation #foodandwine #winehistory #immersivetravel #wineindustry #PasoRobles #winetrips #oenotourism  

Vintage Episode: 40 years, 4 wineries, where wine & life meet, a sleeping lady, tension, and lightning strikes, and interview with Chris Phelps of Ad Vivum Wines in Napa Valley. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in the world of California wine, chatting along the way with the key influencers in the industry who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Chris Phelps of Ad Vivum Wines of Napa Valley.

Wine Road Podcast Episode 233 Summary Hosts Marci Gordon and Beth Costa welcome Miro Tcholakov, winemaker at Trentadue Winery, for a lively discussion about wine, winemaking, and his journey in the industry. Key Highlights: Featured Wines: Miro introduces a Rosé of Sangiovese (Rosato) and a Sauvignon Blanc under the La Storia label. The Rosato is made using the "bleeding" method from old and new vineyards, while the Sauvignon Blanc marks a shift in branding for Trentadue. Winery Overview: Trentadue Winery, located in Geyserville, is one of Sonoma County's oldest wineries, bonded in 1969. Miro has been with the winery for 26 years, overseeing significant updates and producing estate-grown wines like Sangiovese, Malbec, and Montepulciano. Miro's Background: Originally from Bulgaria, Miro shares stories of his winemaking roots, including childhood memories of family winemaking and his early career in the U.S. He started his own label, Miro Cellars, focusing on Zinfandel and Petite Sirah. Events at Trentadue: Upcoming events include the Taste Destination 128 Barbecue Cook-Off (Aug 23) and the Lobster Feast (Sept 13). The winery also offers gondola vineyard tours and hosts weddings. Cultural Insights: Miro reflects on his upbringing in Bulgaria, his family's winemaking traditions, and his adventurous spirit, including spelunking expeditions in Europe. Additional Mentions: Lodging Recommendation: The Stavrand in Guerneville, a luxurious property surrounded by redwoods, was highlighted for visitors. Harvest Wine Trail: A one-day event on Sept 12 featuring 30 wineries offering unique harvest experiences. Miro's passion for winemaking and storytelling shines throughout the episode, making it a delightful listen for wine enthusiasts.

From linens to wines@Ehlersestate @societydelarassi @champagnetelmont #napa #napawines #wine #podcast #radioshow #hostCo hosts : Good ol Boy Harmeet, Good ol Boy Justin, Made Man BobSIPS –Wines Worth Sipping: A Deep Dive into Ehlers EstateJoin us for an exhilarating episode of Sips, Suds, & Smokes as we explore a selection of exquisite wines from Ehlers Estate and beyond! Our hosts, Good ol Boy Bob, Good ol Boy Justin, and Good ol Boy Harm, gather to share their thoughts on a variety of wines, including sparkling champagnes and robust reds, all while engaging in their signature banter.In this episode, we kick off with the Society De La Rassi Neue Brut, a non-alcoholic sparkling wine that surprises our hosts with its vibrant flavors and refreshing profile. We then transition to the Champagne Telmont Reserve de La Terre, where the unique blend of grapes and organic farming practices sparks a lively discussion about its complex tasting notes.As we delve into the Ehlers Estate wines, including their Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and a delightful Portrait Red Blend, our hosts provide insight into the history of the vineyard and the artistry behind each bottle. Expect a range of ratings as they sip and savor these exceptional wines, highlighting the nuances that make each one special.With tales of caviar pairings and spirited debates on flavor profiles, this episode promises to be both entertaining and educational. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just starting your journey, there's something here for everyone! We will be discussing these wines and rating them from 1-5 with 5 being the best:6:00 Society De La Rassi Neue Brut Sparkling Chardonnay 20233 SIPS12:13 Champagne Telmont Reserve De La Terre 20244 SIPS18:46 Ehlers Estate Sylviane Estate Blanc 20234 SIPS27:03 Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc 20225 SIPS30:51 Ehlers Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 20224 SIPS34:10 Ehlers Estate Portrait Red Blend 20225 SIPSinfo@sipssudsandsmokes.comX- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokesSips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Enjoying that cool Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back RoadsDownload your copy here:https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing / FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)COURTESY OF: AudioSparxTITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry WhiteheadPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry WhiteheadPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, & PodBeanProducer: Made Man BobExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeWine Tasting, Champagne, Sparkling Wine, Non-Alcoholic Wine, Ehlers Estate, Napa Valley, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Wine Reviews, Wine Ratings, Caviar Pairing, Wine Education, Wine Enthusiasts, Wine Podcast, Wine Culture, Ewers Estate, Wine And Food Pairing, Wine History, Wine Tasting Notes

Sometimes, I just have to say my peace and get on with it.  Though in this episode, I dig into the relationships that are forged like in no other industry. Hear me out.   I would argue that the best stories in wine aren't just written in vineyards and cellars, but in the electric connections between people, places, and time—sometimes under the neon glow of a set piece scavenged from a Hollywood film. In this episode, I'm unabashedly turning the spotlight on myself and the tangled web of encounters that make up my journey through the wine world. You'll hear how my wish to inspire led one of my early show writers, Lisa K., to trade in her notes for studies in Bordeaux and how, through her, I've built connections I never would have imagined, including friendships with renowned professors and winemakers. I'll take you behind the scenes with the legendary Cladstrups, whose books have forever changed how I—and maybe how you—experience Paris, and with Maximilian Riedel, whose passion for glassware may just have you questioning whether the vessel truly shapes your wine's destiny. I walk you through my adventures in enotourism with Bill Kalais, who proves that real travel in wine is about genuine cultural immersion, not just bus tours and tastings. And I'll reveal how pioneers like Jason Haas reinvented American wine by shattering old rules and building new bridges—reminding all of us how wine creates an ever-unfolding tapestry of relationships and possibility. At every turn, I come back to a core truth: wine transforms lives, forges lasting bonds across continents and cultures, and weaves together music, language, land, and food into something inseparable and deeply human. Listen in and you'll learn, through my own stories, why the most meaningful bottles are those that connect us, and perhaps even discover the real reason Paris owes more to an exiled empress than to any king. #WineTalks #WineIndustry #WinePodcast #WineHistory #WineEducation #WineInnovation #WineCulture #WineTravel #WineTourism #WineConnections #WineStories #Winemaking #Glassware #RhoneRangers #FrenchWine #Bordeaux #WomenInWine #WineAndWar #ChampagneCharlie  

How does your perspective change when you start looking at life one vintage at a time, divided into seasons? What does it look like when wine is so deeply connected to a region that it shapes work, landscape, community, and what a culture values most? Why is Languedoc becoming a popular choice for organic, biodynamic, and natural winemaking? What makes a “bon moment” and why is it worth taking seriously? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Steve Hoffman, who has written an award-winning memoir called A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Three of you are going to win a copy of Steve Hoffman's terrific new book, A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France. 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 three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights What was Steve's favourite aperitif discovery in France? How did a funny mispronunciation lead to an embarrassing introduction? How did stuffed cuttlefish challenge Steve's ideas about strong flavours and aromas in food? How does the historical connection between wine and work show up in French culture today? Why has the Languedoc remained in the shadow of Bordeaux and Burgundy, despite having the largest vineyard area in the world? What surprised Steve the most about the process of blending wine? Why does the latitude of a vineyard matter when learning about tasting wine? How can you have the best experience while visiting the Languedoc?   Key Takeaways How does your perspective change when you start looking at life one vintage at a time, divided into seasons? You start thinking about the unfolding year as not months and days, but as seasons, and you look forward to the next season. And you participate fully, and then you let that season be done, and don't mourn it, because you know it's going to come around again. It forces you to be present in the moment, because it's not like, if I just wait long enough, things are going to get better. What does it look like when wine is so deeply connected to a region that it shapes work, landscape, community, and what a culture values most? In wine country, wine is not just a pleasant accompaniment to life; it literally forms everything. The vines themselves actually form the landscape and just becomes a part of everything. It's work, it's what creates revenue that the village can survive, but then it's also something that you have with almost every meal. Why is Languedoc becoming a popular choice for organic, biodynamic, and natural winemaking? It's still an affordable place to buy a hectare of vines, and so young winemakers can come in and they can afford to experiment with organic, natural or biodynamic winemaking. A lot of the chemicals to avoid spoilage - the Languedoc naturally doesn't have much of that. What makes a “bon moment” and why is it worth taking seriously? It's translated as a good moment, but in France, it has all kinds of other connotations. I think everybody who's listening will recognize one of those moments where you're sitting with people that you care about, where there's good wine and there's good food. That's the centerpiece, that's the excuse to be together. But then the moment unfolds into something greater than itself.   About Steve Hoffman Steve Hoffman is a Minnesota tax preparer and food writer. His writing has won multiple national awards, including the 2019 James Beard M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writing Award. He has been published in Food & Wine, The Washington Post, and The Minneapolis Star Tribune, among other publications. He shares one acre on Turtle Lake, in Shoreview, Minnesota, with his wife, Mary Jo, their elderly and entitled puggle, and roughly 80,000 honeybees.       To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/349.

Legacy in the wine trade is not guaranteed. Not every child wants to take on the wine trade. I have many stories of famed children of iconic brands setting out to carve their own path to only lnad back in this passionate business. Jason Haas of Tablas Creek came around a bit quicker. He saw what an honest glass of wine represents and is now the second generation owner of Tablas Creek. Jason Haas may be the only guest who can increase the world's acreage of a grape by 40% simply by planting half an acre. If that got your attention, prepare for a conversation filled with surprising truths about winemaking in Paso Robles, the deep roots of Tablas Creek, and the evolving landscape of California's wine industry. You'll learn how a partnership between the American Haas family and the French Perrins of Château de Beaucastel launched an early French “transplant” with a vision for Mediterranean grapes in California—long before it was fashionable. Jason offers an insider's perspective on why Paso Robles' sub-appellations are more expressive than those in Napa and how scientific mapping by UC Davis and Cal Poly replaced politics with terroir. You'll get an engrossing look at how this once rural, cowboy town is still shaped more by local families than by corporate interests, and why that matters for the wines—and the people—who make them. Jason also reveals how trends, from big brand Cabs chasing the Napa style to small-batch Rhône blends with true regional character, shape what's in your glass. If you've ever wondered what innovation actually means in wine—outside of quirky bottles and cans—Jason gives you a primer on farming organically and regeneratively, introducing grapes the world has nearly forgotten, and packaging that shrinks the industry's carbon footprint. You'll hear the untold story of California's Roan Ranger movement that started in a little Berkeley restaurant, and why camaraderie and shared purpose make Paso's wine community unique. Along the way, you'll discover why the best part of a Paso wine club might be the opportunity to bowl against your neighboring vintners' Little League teams—no cowboy hat required. Tablas Creek (the main winery discussed, Jason Haas is proprietor) Website: https://www.tablascreek.com Château de Beaucastel (French winery, partners with Tablas Creek founders) Website: https://www.beaucastel.com Opus One (Napa Valley winery referenced) Website: https://www.opusonewinery.com Dominus Estate (another Napa Valley winery referenced) Website: https://www.dominusestate.com Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (regional wine association mentioned) Website: https://pasowine.com Edmunds St. John (Steve Edmunds mentioned as an original Rhone Ranger) Website: http://www.edmundsstjohn.com Brooks Winery (Janie Hook referenced as part of a wine collective) Website: https://www.brookswine.com Vineyard Brands (Import company founded by Robert Haas, Jason's father) Website: https://www.vineyardbrands.com Ancient Peaks Winery (mentioned as owned by a former well digger) Website: https://www.ancientpeaks.com Austin Hope (Paso Robles winery/brand discussed) Website: https://hfwines.com DAOU Vineyards (Paso Robles producer mentioned) Website: https://daouvineyards.com JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery (Paso producer mentioned) Website: https://www.justinwine.com J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines (Paso Robles winery mentioned) Website: https://www.jlohr.com Wine of the Month Club (Paul Kalemkiarian's business) Website: https://www.wineofthemonthclub.com Lalime's Restaurant (Berkeley restaurant referenced as a meeting point; may now be closed but for history: ) Website (legacy/reference): https://www.lalimes.com #winepodcast #WineTalks #PaulKalemkiarian #JasonHaas #TablasCreek #PasoRobles #RhoneVarietals #winemaking #wineindustry #winenight #vineyardlife #CaliforniaWine #wineclub #d2cwine #winestories #wineducation #sustainablewine #wineinnovation #tastingroom #winecommunity

In this episode of Bottled in China, we explore Africa's remarkable demographic and economic growth with Dr. Christian Lindfeld, Managing Director of Africa Ventures Advisory. As the continent's population has surged to 1.5 billion in just 30 years, Dr. Lindfeld highlights how Africa's expanding middle class is transforming luxury consumption, especially in the wine industry.During our discussion, he explains why Africa's wine import market is increasingly appealing to global producers. With rising disposable incomes in urban areas and a burgeoning middle class, consumption trends are evolving. The continent's youthful population and thriving economic hubs are particularly open to international wine culture. However, Dr. Lindfeld also discusses the challenges of navigating these markets and the complexities of diverse regulatory environments.With a PhD in International Business and sixteen years in global management consulting, Dr Lindfeld has brought a data-driven approach to an industry often steeped in tradition. As the Founder of Africa Ventures Advisory and board member of 4G Wines AG, Dr Christian Lindfeld has been instrumental in bridging the gap between European vineyards and Africa's growing middle class. Find out more: www.africa-ventures.netConnect on LinkedIn: Dr Christian Lindfeld   Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Carneros, Mexican Roots, a Love Story, To Kalon, Salsa Saturdays and interview w Amelia Ceja, Founder & President of Ceja Vineyards in Carneros. ON THE ROAD with mrCAwine is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of EMEA & Asia, sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in the business of California wine, chatting along the way with the people who work in wine, and make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Amelia Ceja, Ceja Vineyards. 

How can you create a life you don't need a vacation from? What can we learn from the French about slowing down, savoring meals, and making conversation the heart of gatherings? What's it like living in the “other southern France”? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Steve Hoffman, who has written an award-winning memoir called A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Three of you are going to win a copy of Steve Hoffman's terrific new book, A Season for That: Lost and Found in the Other Southern France. 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 three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!   Highlights What do tax preparation and writing have in common? What inspired Steve to write about the Languedoc, which he refers to as the other Southern France? What were the major hurdles to getting A Season for That published? How did Steve shift from an article to a book mindset? What helped Steve find the balance between writing beautifully and the need to move the story forward? What important lessons did Steve learn from his editor, respected cookbook author Francis Lam? What was it like to move across the world with two young children? Are there insights about French parenting and family life that Steve continues to apply? How did Steve choose the specific village he wanted to live in? How do vulnerability and curiosity help with cultural immersion?   Key Takeaways Steve says that we're often sold the idea that our lives are boring and that we need relief from our lives. He believes in leading a life that doesn't require evacuation. That your life itself, if you are careful about it and a little bit intentional about it, can be the thing that you want to dive into every day. Steve mentions Thanksgiving as one of the very few occasions where he and his family commit to slowing down and making conversation around the table, and a great meal. There was something about the French willingness to let conversation be the point and a way of passing time that was really refreshing. Steve settled in 2012 as a family for an extended fall semester in the Languedoc region, which he refers to as the other southern France, because it is, to some extent, the poor cousin of what most people think of as southern France, primarily Provence and the Côte d'Azur, the Riviera, which was extensively touristed and a lot of money got brought into that region. Peter Mayle, Princess Grace, and F. Scott Fitzgerald made it a wealthy playground. Languedoc is the portion of Mediterranean France to the west of the Rhone. So the Rhone divides the country in two, east of the Rhone is Provence, and the Riviera west of the Rhone is Languedoc and eventually Roussillon. He had the kinds of experiences he had because they weren't in the grips of a tourist haven.   About Steve Hoffman Steve Hoffman is a Minnesota tax preparer and food writer. His writing has won multiple national awards, including the 2019 James Beard M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writing Award. He has been published in Food & Wine, The Washington Post, and The Minneapolis Star Tribune, among other publications. He shares one acre on Turtle Lake, in Shoreview, Minnesota, with his wife, Mary Jo, their elderly and entitled puggle, and roughly 80,000 honeybees.       To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/348.

When I was approached by a PR firm to interview the Stephen and Jennifer McPherson, I gladly agreed not knowing a thing. Podcasts guests are not hard to find in the industry...but good podcasts guests...that is a different story. I am about the story. That is what I am pitching in the world of wine; innovation in marketing and packaging are important, but what is that innovation centered on? The story.  And here is a story, what started as a promise between spouses, became a reality and one that they, as many life changes perform, they wish they had started earlier. If you ever wondered what happens when a top entertainment exec swaps red carpets for rolling vineyards, Stephen and Jennifer McPherson's journey will uncork your imagination. On this episode, you'll hear firsthand how passion trumped the allure of Hollywood glitz, beckoning Stephen from ABC to the grape-stained heart of Napa Valley—all because of a vow made to Jennifer on the eve of their wedding. You'll be invited into the world of Promise Winery, a boutique operation run by this husband-and-wife team with just three employees and a steadfast commitment to staying small, authentic, and deeply personal. Get ready to learn what it takes to follow a dream in an industry that, while brimming with camaraderie and collaboration, is anything but easy. The McPhersons peel back the layers of their calling, sharing stories that reveal why wine is far more than a business—it's an expression of emotion, a vehicle for connection, and a labor of genuine love. You'll laugh at the tales of pigs, homemade prosciutto, and kitchen experiments, and come away touched by their philosophy that great wine is born not in boardrooms but through personal relationships, intention, and joy. As you listen, you'll pick up intimate details about wine's power to unite, the changing landscape of Napa, the eccentricities of wine marketing, and the importance of sticking to your values when trends and algorithms tempt you otherwise. This isn't just a tasting—it's a tour of the soul behind the bottle, with wisdom for anyone dreaming of a life built on what matters most.   Promise Winery Website: https://www.promisewine.com Wine of the Month Club Website: https://www.wineofthemonthclub.com Rombauer Vineyards Website: https://www.rombauer.com Goldman Sachs Website: https://www.goldmansachs.com Naked Wines Website: https://www.nakedwines.com Winc (formerly Club W) Website: https://www.winc.com Chateau Coutet Website: https://www.chateaucoutet.com Colgin Cellars Website: https://www.colgincellars.com   #WineTalks #PromiseWinery #NapaValley #WinePodcast #WineIndustry #WinePassion #WineStories #Winemaking #BoutiqueWinery #WineLovers #WineCommunity #WineExperience #WineTasting #FamilyBusiness #WineJourney #WineAndFood #WineEmotion #WineEducation #WineCulture #AuthenticWine #paulkalemkiarian #winetalkspodcast 

Reaching out to Polly to have a chat about coming on Wine Talks, was like a breath of fresh air. Podcasting takes great effort and a conscious effort to be better and to look for guests that can add to the entertainment and education value of the show. I could have just as easily recorded our pre-call and published that as a podcast. I think you will find Polly intriguing, inspiring and knowledgable.  Polly Hammond would be the first to admit she never gets nervous on podcasts—until, of course, she landed on Wine Talks with Paul K., reminiscing about youthful memories in Hermosa Beach and realizing just how close to home a conversation about wine could truly feel. In this episode, listeners are in for much more than a stroll down California's scenic, wine-soaked memory lanes. You'll dive deep with Polly, CEO and founder of Five Forests Wine Consultancy, as she shakes up entrenched ideas about what keeps wine regions—and the wider wine business—buzzing and relevant. Expect lively debate about the value of tradition and typicity, a behind-the-scenes look at loyalty and wine clubs in the digital age, and a wake-up call about the risks of letting marketing run on autopilot. Polly challenges brands to not just hand down goals to marketers, but to invite them into the boardroom, making a compelling case for why the future of wine depends on personal, empathetic connection with consumers instead of faceless macro-data. Along the way, you'll pick up eyebrow-raising stories—like how middle-aged moms became surprising champions of 19 Crimes, or why a thriving direct mail business in the '90s can teach us crucial lessons for today's digital dilemma. Whether you're a wine lover wondering how your own preferences evolve, or an industry stalwart trying to keep pace with Gen Z's changing tastes and the existential threat of e-commerce to the old wine club model, this episode peels back the curtain on the emotional, psychological, and practical realities facing wine today. When Polly finishes, you'll find yourself equipped—not just with fascinating wine stories, but with a new lens for viewing the wine world's challenges and possibilities, one disruptively practical insight at a time.   Five Forest Wine Consultancy Website: https://fiveforests.com Ottomany Global (sometimes spelled as "Areni Global" in industry contexts; it's a wine think tank) Website: https://areni.global Alexander Valley Vineyards Website: https://www.avvwine.com Hope Family Wines (Trecini/Treana Wines) Website: https://hopefamilywines.com (Triana/Treana is a brand under Hope Family Wines) SC (University of Southern California, USC) Website: https://www.usc.edu Napa Valley Wine Academy Website: https://napavalleywineacademy.com Wine of the Month Club Website: https://www.wineofthemonthclub.com Gallo (E. & J. Gallo Winery) Website: https://www.gallo.com Coca-Cola Website: https://www.coca-colacompany.com Wine Warehouse Website: https://winewarehouse.com   #wineindustry #winetalks #winemarketing #wineloyalty #wineclubs #wineconsulting #winetradition #digitalmarketing #winelife #pollyhammond #paulkalemkiarian #femalewineleaders #winebusiness #wineretail #winesales #winestory #winebranding #customerloyalty #winedigital #winepodcast

When I reach out for podcast guests...I look for interesting backgrounds. Meaning, I would like to see a variety of experiences and someone who has a point of view. With the advent of the wine critic (many years ago) and the wine periodical, I wanted to have Susan on the show as she was the lead editor of the Wine Enthusiast. This puts her is a very small group of wine writers and by default, gives her a point of view. Susan Castrava knows the wine industry like few others—after all, when she talks about effective messaging, wine authenticity, and the power of experience, it's with the insight of someone who shaped the narratives at Wine Enthusiast and now crafts strategy for brands craving a new audience. In this episode, you'll uncork more than just theories. You'll come away knowing how digital disruption, shifting consumer habits, and the revolution in direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales are rewriting the wine world. Is the key to survival expensive ad campaigns, or does it begin—quite literally—in the bottle? Susan unpacks why great juice and an honest, authentic story matter more than ever, especially against a backdrop of failed brands and changing markets. You'll hear about the importance of hospitality and experience in a connected world, discover why younger markets from India to Brazil are rising, and learn why travel and Eno-tourism might be the secret weapon for growth. Susan also tackles the non-alcoholic wine trend with curiosity and candor—why hasn't it matched the spirit of traditional vino, and where are we headed? Plus, she and Paul dissect the dangers of chasing trends, the value—and limits—of wine scores, and the singular power of meeting people where they are, whether in a bustling tasting room or through a well-told family story. Whether you're a winemaker, marketer, or simply passionate about the stuff in your glass, you'll leave this episode with practical, story-driven wisdom and a new appreciation for how timeless principles and modern thinking can—and must—coexist in today's wine world.   Wine Enthusiast Website: https://www.wineenthusiast.com/ Wink (also known as Winc) Website: https://www.winc.com/ Treasury Wine Estates (Referred to as "Finish Wine Estates" in the transcript, but the actual company is Treasury Wine Estates) Website: https://www.tweglobal.com/ Château Canon Chaigneau Website: https://www.canon-chaigneau.com/ Shovel Blanc (Most likely referring to Château Cheval Blanc) Website: https://www.chateau-cheval-blanc.com/ Castoro Cellars Website: https://www.castorocellars.com/ Wine Hooligans Website: https://winehooligans.com/ Whole Foods Website: https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ Corona (beer brand) Website: https://www.corona.com/ #wineindustry #directtoconsumer #DTC #winemarketing #winetrends #wineconsumption #winequality #winetourism #wineratings #winescores #contentstrategy #winemessaging #wineexperience #wineeducation #winesales #hospitality #wineculture #nonalcoholicwine #consumerengagement #winebranding

Sometimes life is about timing. Just as I was inquiring about the wine of an Armenian wine maker, I received an email from a gentleman thanking me for the inquiry, and that he happens to be in LA...and would love to sit for a podcast. I was floored. When Vahagn sat down and began to speak, I knew we would hit it off. He had insight and passion. And it turns out that the winemaker, Zara Muradyan is his wife. What are the odds..lol. Oxford educated with a grounded outlook on wine, we hit it off and the conversation could have gone on for hours. Vahagn Voskanyan wants you to remember his name—not for its tricky spelling, but for the remarkable story behind every bottle he touches. You will come away with an entirely fresh appreciation for what it means to make wine in Armenia, where every sip is less about chasing trends and more about channeling centuries of heritage, family resilience, and pure emotion into the glass. As Vahagnn candidly shares, wine is a process—not just a result—and through his partnership with his trailblazing wife, Zara, he's helping to reignite an Armenian industry that only recently emerged from decades of obscurity. Listeners will discover how Zara's relentless pursuit of innovation, from rewriting Armenia's winemaking curriculum to engineering a new kind of Armenian vermouth, is matched only by Vahagnn's drive to connect their wines to the hearts of drinkers across the world. You'll learn the hard truths and soft skills of building a boutique winery where “less is more” and the story matters as much as the science. Through tales of global journeys, emotional tastings, and lessons drawn from both Soviet-era and millennia-old winemaking traditions, you'll gain insight into the unique character of Armenian grapes, the challenge of defining terroir when history itself is being rewritten, and the profound belief that wine should spark conversation, curiosity, and connection. Whether it's reflecting on the emotion of a perfectly balanced wine, discussing how innovation meets tradition, or embracing the “life of wine” over the fleeting allure of lifestyle, Vahagnn's wisdom and humility shine through. Expect to finish the episode not just wanting to taste their story, but also to rethink what, and who, really fills the bottle in front of you. Zara Muradian Winery (referred to as "Zara Winery" / "Zara Muradian Winery"): No website was provided in the transcript. If you'd like to find more, you may try searching for "Zara Muradian Winery Armenia" or similar terms online. White Rabbit Family (a group of high-end restaurants in Russia): Website: https://whiterabbitfamily.com/en/ California State University, Fresno – Viticulture & Enology Research Center: Main university site: https://www.fresnostate.edu/ Viticulture & Enology Center: https://jcast.fresnostate.edu/ve/index.html Geisenheim University (Germany) Website: https://www.hs-geisenheim.de/ James Suckling (wine critic and tasting events): Website: https://www.jamessuckling.com/ CivilNet (mentioned as a studio/production site in Armenia) Website: https://www.civilnet.am/   #winepodcast #WineTalks #PaulKalemkiarian #VahagnnVoskanyan #ZaraWinery #ArmenianWine #winemaking #wineeducation #familybusiness #boutiquewinery #JamesSuckling #grapegrowing #Armenia #winehistory #winepassion #womeninwine #vineyardlife #wineculture #wineindustry #winestory

Despite being the son of a pharmacist turned wine professional, I did not know the purpose of an Entheogen. Ross Halleck set me straight,so much so, that after defining an entheogen, the value of the consumption of wine became clearer. Ross Halleck doesn't just make wine—he might just ask you to close your eyes and seek the divine within a single glass. In this episode of Wine Talks, you'll be swept past the typical vineyard tales and deep into the spiritual and mystical roots of wine itself. You'll learn how Ross stumbled into the wine trade not through family legacy or grand ambition, but with the curiosity of a seeker and a penchant for unearthing life's mysteries. Paul and Ross unravel why, for some, wine is more than a social lubricant or status symbol; it's an “entheogen”—a conduit to something sacred. Discover how the trappings of wine culture, from magazine scores to over-intellectualization, can miss the magic entirely, and why Ross is on a mission to return wine to its ancient role: bringing people together, not driving them apart. You'll step inside his West Sebastopol vineyard and hear why he believes winning top awards means little if you can't connect with people's hearts. The conversation flows from digital reviews and the democratization of taste, to the pitfalls of marketing wine as pure commerce, to modern-day plant medicine ceremonies designed to foster self-discovery, belonging, and reverence. As the layers peel back, you'll come away with a fresh perspective on wine—not just as a beverage, but as a timeless link to the sacred, the mysterious, and the collective human story. And if you've ever wondered why a certain glass makes you feel something inexplicable, or why wine alone among drinks is revered across cultures and epochs, this episode offers more than an explanation—it offers an invitation to experience the “vine intervention” for yourself. Halleck Vineyard Website: halleckvineyard.com (Ross Halleck's winery, mentioned as halleckvineyard.com under events for wine ceremonies.) Starbucks Website: starbucks.com Hewlett-Packard (HP) Website: hp.com Apple Website: apple.com Sun Microsystems (company no longer independent; acquired, but for historical reference): Website: oracle.com (redirects to Oracle) Wine Spectator Website: winespectator.com Robert Parker/Wine Advocate Website: robertparker.com Wine of the Month Club Website: wineofthemonthclub.com Michelin (Michelin Guide for restaurants) Website: guide.michelin.com Yelp Website: yelp.com Foursquare Website: foursquare.com Kosta Brown  Website: kostabrowne.com Kendall-Jackson Website: kj.com Rombauer Vineyards Website: rombauer.com Cheval Blanc Website: chateau-cheval-blanc.com #wine #winetalks #paulkalemkiarian #rosshalleck #halleckvineyard #winepodcast #wineindustry #pinotnoir #sonomacounty #wineandspirit #wineculture #enthiogen #wineexperience #winelover #winecommunity #wineclub #winemarketing #winepassion #spiritualwine #wineceremony        

At a recent Cabernet Sauvignon tasting in Los Angeles at the famed Republique restaurant, I spied this cool cat pouring off some aged wines. In that I fancy myself as a off-beat jacket guy, I had to engage Ron as to the provenance of not his wines, but of his jacket. And that is when the story began to unfold. Naturally, on the next trip to Napa, I had to get the whole story on the podcast. And here it is. Ron Nicholsen is the kind of vintner who makes you wonder if patience truly is a virtue—or just a wild gamble in the wine world. In this episode, you'll uncork the remarkable journey of a winemaker who dares to hold back his Cabernet for a full decade before release and whose devotion to authenticity runs deeper than sediment at the bottom of a hand-aged bottle. You'll hear how Ron's childhood, shaped by a grape-growing family and the steady, idiosyncratic hand of his stepfather, set the stage for an unconventional, legacy-driven pursuit: crafting age-worthy Napa Valley wines that aren't just tasted, but experienced. From his first steps at Camus under suspender-clad Charlie Wagner to the invaluable lessons at Spring Mountain and Cane Cellars, Ron's story is one of grape-to-glass transformation, family dynamics, and taking risks most wouldn't dare. Paul Kalemkiarian guides the conversation with the insight of someone who's seen a hundred thousand wines cross his glass, probing the economic and emotional weight of aging wines for years while resisting the fruit-forward trends dominating Napa's mainstream. Listeners will come away with an understanding of what it means to champion an “unblended, independent product” and the philosophy behind refusing to rush a wine to market—all while weathering personal and business upheaval. Expect to learn how terroir, tradition, and a stubborn sense of pride fuse into a singular tasting experience, why Ron believes fine wine is a three-dimensional, not a two-dimensional, pleasure, and how legacy can be bottled, aged, and passed down—one thoughtful vintage at a time. Some thoughts:

When I told my wife I was interviewing Chef Ara Zada...she was like..."I follow him!""He is great!" She never says that about me. I guess I need to learn how to make "fusion"cuisine with Mediterranean food!. Chef Ara Zada has a storied career and now turned food influencer. We had a blast together. Ara Zada is the kind of guest who makes you wish your phone had a “smell-o-vision” app—and by the end of this episode, you'll know why. Step into the kitchen-turned-studio where Ara, chef, content creator, and avid bow hunter, cooks up much more than what's on the plate. You'll discover what happens when the authenticity of Armenian-Egyptian family recipes gets filtered through French culinary training and the relentless demands of social media stardom. Ara dissects with candor the creative (and literal) balancing act behind daily content creation, sharing how his brand blossomed from a commitment to consistency, pressure, and staying “on message” while still keeping things decidedly fun. Beyond that, you'll hear firsthand how the nostalgia of food can collapse decades in a single bite—how a dish, made with the right memory and technique, can bring both chef and eater “back home.” There are surprising lessons too—from the truth about hacking legacy dishes (hint: your grandma may have had more time on her hands than you do) to honoring every part of an animal in sustainable, hands-on cuisine. Paul and Ara delve into why culinary traditions resist—or embrace—modernization, how taste buds evolve, and why memory and flavor are inseparable companions. You'll walk away with an intimate look at crafting a culinary career in the digital age, the importance of staying curious and genuine, and why giving someone a hot plate of food is still one of the best ways to connect. Whether you're here for the food nostalgia, the mindset behind a thousand viral videos, or inspiration for tomorrow's dinner, this episode promises to feed your curiosity—and maybe remind you of your own family table. ✅ What does it take to turn food memories into culinary fame? ✅ Chef, content creator, and bow hunter Ara Zada spills his secrets on building a mouthwatering brand, going from home-cooked classics to viral foodie stardom. ✅ Host Paul Kalemkiarian takes you behind the scenes on Wine Talks as they dive into food, culture, content creation, and why authentic storytelling wins in the kitchen (and online). ✅ Get ready to learn, laugh, and feel hungry—this episode is pure flavor and heart. Tune in to hear how nostalgia and innovation can launch your next delicious adventure! #WineTalksPodcast #AraZada #PaulKalemkiarian #winepodcast #winetalks #winelover #winetasting #foodandwine #armataste #arazada #culinaryinspiration #armeniancuisine #fusionfood #foodmemories #cookbook #contentcreator #socialmediaforchefs #chefslife #wineculture #pasowine #bowhunting #foodstylist #familytraditions