Podcasts about wine podcast

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.

It's our first episode in English - and Rajat Parr's first time in Berlin. Coincidence? Probably not. Joining Raj: Rheingau's own Eva Fricke. Raj, international sommelier icon and winemaker of many hats (and vineyards), takes Willi and Curly through his vinous origin story: including nightly blind tastings with his mentor Larry Stone, where mistaking the vintage was tantamount to total disgrace. We touch on why wine education (looking at you, WSET) leaves Gen Z cold, how making wine changes how you drink it, and what vines and humans have in common when it comes to resilience. Other highlights: how Burgundy's insane popularity shut down his San Francisco restaurant, what big-name wine labels really sell, and yes, how the infamous Rudy Kurniawan wines actually tasted. Willi and Curly had a blast - and Raj says he's never had this much fun recording a podcast. A man with impeccable taste. Delicious Green x TundA* Weinpaket: https://deliciousgreen.de/produkt/tunda-paket Follow Eva on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evafricke/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delicious_green_selection/ Website: https://www.evafricke.com/ Website: https://deliciousgreen.de/ Follow Raj on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rajatparr/?hl=de Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phelanfarmcambria/?hl=de Website: https://www.parrcollective.com/ Follow Terroir und Adiletten on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terroirundadiletten/ Follow Willi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willi_drinks Follow Curly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelifeofcurly Producer: pleasure* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pleasure_berlin TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pleasure_berlin Website: https://www.pleasure-berlin.com/ Magazin: https://www.thisispleasure.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pleasureberlin

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 

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Send us a textThere is no wine content in this episode, except for how it relates to the making of 50 episodes of The Wineitupanotch Podcast! Today, we are celebrating reaching this milestone, taking a look back at how we got to 50 considering all of the ups, downs, blunders and successes...and looking forward to consider what comes next!With a heart full of gratitude, thank you for listening!Let's stay in touch - we always love to hear from you! Follow the wine related antics and fun on the following social channels: Blog: www.wineitupanotch.com The Wineitupanotch Podcast on Instagram Wineitupanotch on Instagram Wineitupanotch on Tiktok Wineitupanotch on Youtube Or send an email with questions, comments and requests to wineitupanotch@gmail.com

How does music, even types you dislike, make wine more enjoyable? Can curated playlists in tasting rooms and wine bars influence how customers drink, eat, and experience wine? What happens when you stop overthinking wine and music and just enjoy? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Susan Lin, a Master of Wine and a Master of Fine Arts in Classical Piano and Musicology. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Highlights How does a low-pitched, slow-tempo musical piece impact the perceived fruitiness of wine? What does "timbre" mean in musical terms? How do different musical characteristics influence the perception of wine's effervescence? Did the participants' music preferences correlate with their enjoyment of the wine? What might surprise you about how the wines tasted in silence compared? Why does the influence of sound on our perception tend to go unnoticed? How are some winemakers using music in their wineries? Are there retail applications for Susan's research into the influence of music on the perception of wine? What would be Susan's ideal live concert and wine pairing scenario? What are some of the possibilities in the future for AI-generated music for wine experiences? Is there an interest in similar research on the intersection between dance and wine perception? What future research areas is Susan considering in terms of music and wine perception? What three objects would Susan display in a museum representing her life and passions? If Susan could share a wine with anyone outside the wine industry, who would it be and why? How can you start being more intentional about exploring sensory experiences with wine and music?   Key Takeaways How does music, even types you dislike, make wine more enjoyable? Susan says that in her experiments, the wine that was consistently the worst, least balanced, was the wine tasted without music. Even if somebody said I really didn't like this music, it was a way better wine to them than without music. Even for the wine experts, the wines were much more palatable without music. I think that's why sound can be a very, very powerful thing. Can curated playlists in tasting rooms and wine bars influence how customers drink, eat, and experience wine? Susan has worked with tasting rooms and wine bars to curate their playlists in terms of the experiences that they want their customers to have. You want to have people be a little more relaxed in the morning, but then, you start amping it up for the evening. I put together a complete journey, that sort of sonic seasoning for different expressions of their wines, for big bold red versus for their light, youthful white wines. What happens when you stop overthinking wine and music and just enjoy? Susan says that with the melding of music and wine, there's still so much to learn. Keep trying things. Don't worry about whether it's right or wrong. Just enjoy the experience. Let everything come in sensorially and enjoy that and embrace again the mystery of things. We can't explain everything through data, and that's a good thing.   About Susan R. Lin Susan R. Lin is a Master of Wine and a Master of Fine Arts in Classical Piano and Musicology. Susan's MW research paper ‘Influences of Classical Music on the Sensory Perception of a Brut Non-Vintage Champagne' and subsequent work on the interaction of music and wine have been featured in Decanter, Food & Wine, GuildSomm, and others. Each of Susan's creations is rooted in academic research and inspired by a deep respect for the essence of wine and music.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/347.

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

Dr. Durai Pandithurai  | Jesus Turns Water Into Wine (Podcast) The post Dr. Durai Pandithurai  | Jesus Turns Water Into Wine (Podcast) appeared first on Scott Silverii Ministries.

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

6th Generation Farmers, 1855, Marian's Vineyard, Tonka Toys and interview w Bruce Fry, CEO of Mohr Fry Ranches in Lodi, CA. 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 Bruce Fry, CEO of Mohr Fry Ranches. 

Why might a symphony night pair just as well with your wine as a heavy metal ballad? What is “sonic seasoning” and how can music impact the way we experience the taste of wine? How are sensory experiences like music, taste, and atmosphere all connected? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Susan Lin, a Master of Wine and a Master of Fine Arts in Classical Piano and Musicology. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Highlights What did Susan's grandfather teach her about fine beverages and hospitality? How did playing piano in hotels as a child shape Susan's perspective on the holistic nature of our sensory experiences? Is there a connection between Susan's backgrounds in tech, music, and wine? When did Susan decide she wanted to dive deeper into the intersection between music and wine? What makes a wine "musical"? How do cross-modal correspondences impact wine tasting? Why was Brut Non-Vintage Champagne Susan's choice for her research paper? What is "sonic seasoning" in the context of wine and music? What was Susan's most memorable wine and music pairing event? What might surprise you about the intersection between classical music and heavy metal? How did Susan set up her experiment to observe how music affected participants' perceptions of the wine they were tasting?   Key Takeaways Susan says she was always encouraging a Bach goth night at the symphony to bring people together. I like to say, whether my Brahms is your Metallica or vice versa, music can make such a difference in what you're feeling. Hence, if you got a glass of wine, what you're tasting in that glass, right? I've actually done a few experiments with heavy metal. People feel a lot of things, and there are ballads in metal. It's not just your typical really assertive sound all the time. It can be really soulful too and I noticed a lot of use of medieval melodies and folk songs in the ballads that are really nice. So not too far of a distance between Brahms and Metallica in that sense. Susan explains that if you're listening to something that might add a little bit of pizzazz here or there to your wine, like seasoning can do. It's more of a fun term, not a scientific term. All classical composers experienced all the emotions and all the feelings that we all do and it comes through in their music. Maybe they can be feeling joyful or melancholy or longing or frustrated or upset, and everything in between. So the nature of the seasoning is that it can run in many, many different ways. Susan observed during her performances how moods of the guests changed depending on what she played. Everything in the sensory world, all of our experiences, are really taken in holistically, right? It's not like, oh, we're just listening to this one thing and that's isolated. Oh, and we're tasting this one thing, we're smelling this one thing, and we're seeing something. It's all together. I knew that it was something special, and knew that it was something that I wanted to learn more about, or just somehow be a part of. And playing the piano in those situations actually was a great way for me to be a part of it.   About Susan R. Lin Susan R. Lin is a Master of Wine and a Master of Fine Arts in Classical Piano and Musicology.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/346. Susan's MW research paper ‘Influences of Classical Music on the Sensory Perception of a Brut Non-Vintage Champagne' and subsequent work on the interaction of music and wine have been featured in Decanter, Food & Wine, GuildSomm, and others. Each of Susan's creations is rooted in academic research and inspired by a deep respect for the essence of wine and music.

Regards croisés 1ère édition.Regards croisés est une table ronde réunissant les acteurs clés d'une catégorie autour d'un sujet de réflexion. Le but est de faire jaillir de nouveaux éclairages et nouvelles perspectives sur des sujets d'actualité de la filière vin.Ce format est créé et organisé par WAW, le 1er cabinet de conseil en stratégie dédié exclusivement aux vins et spiritueux de prestige, fondé par Anne-Claire d'Izarny-Gargas et Louise Villepelet.Pour cette premiere édition que j'ai le plaisir de partager avec vous, Anne-Claire et Louise ont décidé de vous dévoiler les coulisses champenoises avec un thème original : la créativité en champagne.Et pour en discuter dans le très beau cadre du club We are, elles ont réuni 3 personnalités aux parcours divers :- Charles-Armand de Belenet, Directeur Général de Bollinger- Jérémy Cukierman, Master of Wine et Directeur communication et RSE d'Artémis Domaines (Maison Jacquesson)- Raphael Bérèche, vigneron au domaine Bérèche et FilsRéalisation : Romain BeckerPost-production : Emmanuel NappeyMusique originale : Emmanuel DoréGraphismes : ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Léna Mazilu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On se retrouve très vite pour de nouvelles aventures viticoles. D'ici-là éclatez-vous et buvez bon !Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

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        

This show is brought to you in association with iDealwine. What's the difference between Prosecco - and Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG? Why is Prosecco a 'democratic' wine?! And do you want to hear Peter change his mind??!!Tune in for all this and more, where we go on an intriguing journey of discovery into the UNESCO-endorsed, vine-clad hills of Conegliano Valdobbiadene territory north of Venice. We ask why the wines made here are different from your average Prosecco, what is the Martinotti method that is so vital to production of these wines...and should we really be ageing our best Prosecco now?!Bringing this world to life for us are Diego Tomasi, former researcher turned director of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco consortium, and producer Sara Meneguz. We also taste through some of the region's top wines and issue our own verdict on the wines and the region.Mentions of the following occur along the way: Dolly Parton, hogback, Polaroids, heroic viticulture, Afghanistan, kiwi fruit, dinghies, aroma symphony, and the importance of patience.Thanks to the Consorzio Tutela del Vino Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco for sponsoring this episode. This is the final show in Season Six - we will be back very soon for lots more fun, chat and great wines in Season Seven. Until then - cheers!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 contact info, together with all details from this episode, including maps and wine recommendations, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S6 E23 - There's Prosecco, and then there's Conegliano ValdobbiadeneInstagram: @susieandpeterSponsors: iDealwine

An exploration of the wines, grapes, and the gorgeously mountainous region of Valle d'Aosta Italy, where we meet up with a Saint Bernard.  Resources from this episode: Books:  The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J., Harding, J., Vouillamoz, J. (2013) Websites:  Consorzio Vini Valle d'Aosta https://www.vinivalledaosta.com/doc-valle-d-aosta Decanter: Valle d'Aosta for Wine Lovers - A charming blend of French and Italian cultures in this northernmost Italian wine region, Finetti, M. (24 October 2022) https://www.decanter.com/wine-travel/valle-daosta-for-wine-lovers-490147/ Disciplinare.it: Valle d'Aosta o Vallée d'Aoste DOC (20 December 2020) https://www.disciplinare.it/valle-daosta-o-vallee-daoste-doc.html Fodor's Travel: Auberge de l'Hospice Gran San Bernardo https://www.fodors.com/world/europe/italy/piedmont-and-valle-daosta/hotels/reviews/auberge-de-l'hospice-gran-san-bernardo-161475 Hospice du Grand-Saint-Bernard: https://gsbernard.com Institut Agricole Regional: https://www.iaraosta.it Italian Wine Central: Valle d'Aosta/Vallée d'Aoste DOC https://italianwinecentral.com/denomination/valle-daosta-vallee-daoste-doc/ Pays du St-Bernard: Great St. Bernard Hospice https://www.saint-bernard.ch/en/activities/great-st-bernard-hospice-8006/ Quattro Calici: Il Vino nella Valle d'Aosta - Vitigni, Vino, Enogastronomia https://www.quattrocalici.it/regione/valle-d-aosta/ Glass in Session Episodes Relevant to this Episode:   S5E2: Getting Medieval - Wine and Holy Warriors https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s5e2-getting-medieval-wine-and-holy-warriors S9E1: Franciacorta DOCG https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s9e1-franciacorta-docg S9E3: Ice Wine/Icewine/Eiswein (Baby?) https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s9e3-ice-wineicewineeiswein-baby S9E5: Swiss Wine, Sweet Stories https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s9e5-swiss-wine-sweet-stories S19E2: Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol Wine Regions in Italy https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/trentino-alto-adigesdtirol-wine-regions-in-italy-s19e2 S19E4: The Wines and the Region of Lombardia, Italy https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/the-wines-and-the-region-of-lombardia-italy-s19e4   Glass in Session® swag mentioned in this show: https://www.teepublic.com/user/glass-in-session   Glass in Session® is a registered trademark of Vino With Val, LLC. Music: “Write Your Story” by Joystock (Jamendo.com cc_Standard License, Jamendo S.A.)

Send us a textIn this exceptional episode, I welcome Yves de Launay, Executive Vice President of the Americas for Château Angélus, one of the most prestigious wine estates in Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux. With a resume that includes Cheval Blanc, Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Cartier, Yves brings a wealth of luxury industry expertise to this deep-dive into Bordeaux's Right Bank.We explore the fascinating multi-generational legacy of Château Angélus, led today by Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal, only the third woman to run the estate in 250 years. Yves shares insights into the château's visionary expansion into hospitality—including Michelin-recognized restaurants—and discusses how sustainability, Cabernet Franc-forward winemaking, and the limestone-clay terroir of Saint-Émilion shape the estate's elegant and age-worthy wines.Other standout moments:Why Château Angélus withdrew from the Grand Cru Classé A classification in 2022The story behind the iconic three-bell logo and its spiritual originsHow Château Angélus is marketing fine Bordeaux to new generationsTackling wine counterfeits and navigating U.S. allocationsPersonal favorites from South Florida's fine dining sceneWhether you're a Bordeaux collector, fine wine investor, or simply love a Right Bank masterpiece, this episode uncorks insider access to one of the world's most revered estates.Listen here:AppleSpotifyiHeartradioAmazon MusicAudibleVisit me on my social media platforms:InstagramTwitterYouTubeTikTokFacebookThank you for listening. As always, from my “palette”  to yours, Cheers! BrendaSupport the show

What turns a wine country visit into an incredibly memorable experience? What are the hidden perks of off-peak wine travel? How has digital media transformed the way people plan wine travel? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amy Wislocki, editor-in-chief of Decanter, the world's most prestigious wine magazine. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of her terrific book, The Ultimate Wine Lover's Travel Guide. 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.   Highlights What don't many wine lovers realize about the wine-making history of the country of Georgia? How important is authentic cultural immersion to wine travel? Can wine tourism help preserve cultural heritage in regions recovering from political strife? What's the association between wineries and wildlife? How and why are many wineries now catering to families? What was Amy's approach to balancing practical with sharing the romance of the locations in The Ultimate Wine Lover's Travel Guide? What would Amy include in her perfect wine day itinerary? How has COVID-19 impacted wine travel? What are the advantages of travelling to wine regions outside of the peak seasons? Is environmental consciousness changing wine tourism? How has digital media transformed wine travel writing? Has the rise of influencers changed the wine industry? What would Amy add to a new edition of the book? What should you be asking about wine travel? How does Amy want readers to feel after reading The Ultimate Wine Lover's Travel Guide? Which famous figures would Amy want to be able to share a bottle of wine with?   Key Takeaways What turns a wine country visit into an incredibly memorable experience? Amy advises to mix it up a bit and not cram too much into the day, because then that becomes too stressful. Probably a bit of planning will help to make it a perfect day. Often you need to book in advance. So maybe just two winery visits, one in the morning, one in the afternoon. Go somewhere for lunch where you can sit outside and just enjoy the beautiful views, get some fresh air. You might be able to hire a bicycle or go for a hike around the vineyards. See a beautiful village that has some nice culture, or architectural churches. What are the hidden perks of off-peak wine travel? Amy says the main thing is that the winemaker might have more time to spend with you. There must be certain times of the year that are really busy, not only in terms of tourists, but in terms of the winemaking. Also you have a higher chance of just being able to get into some of the most sought-after wineries. There might be some wineries that are just fully booked for ages. How has digital media transformed the way people plan wine travel? Amy observes that on social media, you can watch videos and reels of place which inspires people to do more research. So they might be sparked off by something they see on TikTok or Facebook or Instagram, and then they might go to Decanter.com, and read the whole article. So it's all complementary.   About Amy Wislocki Amy has more than 30 years' experience in publishing, and worked at a senior level for leading companies in the consumer, business-to-business and contract publishing arenas, before joining Decanter in October 2000 as Magazine Editor. As well as overseeing content planning and production for the print offering, she has also been involved in developing digital channels, Decanter.com and Decanter Premium.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/345.

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

Why does wine taste different when you've stood in the vineyard it came from? What's one myth about wine travel that Amy dispels? With Gen Z drinking less wine, how does a 50-year-old wine magazine stay relevant without alienating longtime readers? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amy Wislocki, editor-in-chief of Decanter, the world's most prestigious wine magazine. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Two of you are going to win a copy of her terrific book, The Ultimate Wine Lover's Travel Guide. 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.   Highlights What was it like to join Decanter magazine as a 27-year-old magazine editor? How did Amy establish her credibility as a young editor? What exciting incident marked one of her press trips to Chile? Which aspects of wine writing are often misunderstood or undervalued? How does Decanter balance engaging Gen Z readers without alienating their long-term readers? Why has Decanter started reviewing low-alcohol wines? What's made Amy stay at Decanter for 25 years> What's one myth about wine travel that Amy hopes this book dispels? Why is the experience of tasting wine at the vineyard where it's made so powerful? What are some of Amy's favourite essays in Why did Amy include South Carolina, which has no vineyards, in her wine travel book?   Key Takeaways As Amy observes, anybody who's visited a vineyard will understand that there's no substitute. You will have a different relationship with that wine for the rest of your life. The lucky thing is that wine growing areas are often the most beautiful areas of the world. You can see what type of soil it is like. The climate might be very near to the ocean, with the cooling breezes. So that side of it will really give you a better understanding of why that wine tastes like it does. You see the age of the vines. Also meeting the people behind the wine. It could be a small, family-owned winery, hearing the stories associated with the wine. Drinking them with the food of the place and in that environment, it's an irreplaceable experience. Amy says the main thing is that it has to be an elitist thing, because I suppose wine in general has the elitist kind of associations. And I think it's just getting across that, you don't have to have tons of money and only drink the world's finest wines to enjoy wine travel. It's just becoming much more accessible to everyone, and in so many more regions and countries than it was. Amy explains that it's many things: recognizing moderation as a trend. It's a tricky one to get right, and you don't want to be preaching to people. You don't want people who think I'm buying a wine magazine because I love wine. I don't want to be made to feel guilty for drinking wine. This is my refuge. But it's not about that. It's about recognizing a trend that even among wine lovers, people are trying to kind of think about how and when and where, where they're drinking, how much they're drinking. Obviously, there are some things that Gen Z will want to read about that our more traditional conservative readers might not all be so bothered about, like natural wines. It's all a balance, isn't it? And trying to give something to everybody.   About Amy Wislocki Amy has more than 30 years' experience in publishing, and worked at a senior level for leading companies in the consumer, business-to-business and contract publishing arenas, before joining Decanter in October 2000 as Magazine Editor. As well as overseeing content planning and production for the print offering, she has also been involved in developing digital channels, Decanter.com and Decanter Premium.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/344.

Les Carmes Haut Brion, BordeauxBordeaux souffre, c'est indéniable. Dans les mois qui viennent, vous pourrez écouter les témoignages de plusieurs vignerons et vigneronnes que j'ai rencontrés en ce printemps 2025 et qui vivent des situations diverses. En parallèle de la découverte de leurs domaines respectifs, je les ai questionnés sur les déterminants de la crise actuelle pour essayer de comprendre ce qui se passe dans le bordelais. Dans cette période compliquée, j'ai tenais à rencontrer un domaine qui tire très bien son épingle du jeu, les Carmes Haut-Brion. Et si leur situation est si enviable, c'est pour de bonnes raisons. Il y a une vision, une ambition et la chance d'avoir les moyens de les concrétiser. Pour rentrer dans le détail, Florian et moi avons rencontré Guillaume Pouthier, directeur général du domaine depuis 2012, et Thibaut Richard, directeur commercial depuis 2024. Un tandem qui ne laisse rien au hasard.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 !Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

This show is brought to you in association with iDealwine. English county Essex is better known for its brash behaviour (and certain reality TV shows) than its beautiful wines. But is all that about to change?!For long, Essex was England's best kept wine secret. The grapes were sold off to producers from Kent to Cornwall, which meant their Essex origin sailed under the radar. But then came the investment - both from ambitious local families and then, in 2023, from the highly regarded US wine producer Jackson Family Wines (JFW). Nowadays, some postcodes in Essex have the highest concentration of individual vineyards anywhere in the UK. Vineyard prices are not far off those in Marlborough, New Zealand. Essex has gone from zero to wine hero in the blink of an eye, with classy still (rather than sparkling) wines the forté, particularly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.So could Essex end up challenging the likes of Sancerre and Burgundy?!We get the lowdown from Charlie Holland, who's heading up JFW's ambitious English wine project, plus 'Mr Essex viticulture' Duncan McNeill and Chris Wilson of acclaimed Cambridge urban winery Gutter&Stars. We also give our verdict on a (surprisingly wide) range of Essex wines, including JFW's debut release (Marbury Chardonnay). And yes, the words, 'new dimension' are uttered.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 contact info, together with all details from this episode, including photos and wine recommendations, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S6 E22 - Essex: Class in a GlassInstagram: @susieandpeterSponsors: iDealwine

An exploration of the vast, diverse styles of wines, grapes, and the stunning region of Lombardia, Italy Resources from this episode: Books:  The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J., Harding, J., Vouillamoz, J. (2013) Websites:  Britannica: Lombardy https://www.britannica.com/place/Lombardy Italian Wine Central: https://italianwinecentral.com/region-province/lombardia-3/ Quattrocalici: Wine in Lombardy https://www.quattrocalici.com/regions/lombardy/ Vini di Valtellina: https://www.vinidivaltellina.it Glass in Session Episodes Relevant to this Episode:   S2E1: Lambrusco Love Fest https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s2e1-lambrusco-love-fest S2E2: Behind Botrytis - Beautiful Wines from Ugly Grapes https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/s2e2-behind-botrytis-beautiful-wines-from-ugly-grapes S2E5: Hello Vino Novello https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/s2e5-hello-vino-novello S3E1: Asti DOCG - Bubbles in the New Year, Decade and Season https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s3e1-asti-docg-bubbles-in-the-new-year-decade-and-season S3E4: Wine from Dried Grapes https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s3e4-wine-from-dried-grapes S4E3: Valpolicella-Palooza https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s4e2-valpolicella-palooza S9E1: Franciacorta DOCG https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s9e1-franciacorta-docg S14E1: Argentina's Sparkling Wine https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/argentinas-sparkling-wine-s14e1 S18E5: Lake Garda - Surrounded by Wine Regions https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/lake-garda-surrounded-by-wine-regions-s18e5 S19E2: Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol Wine Regions in Italy https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/trentino-alto-adigesdtirol-wine-regions-in-italy-s19e2 S19E3: Wine from Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/wine-from-friuli-venezia-giulia-in-italy-s19e3   Glass in Session® swag mentioned in this show: https://www.teepublic.com/user/glass-in-session Glass in Session® is a registered trademark of Vino With Val, LLC. Music: “Write Your Story” by Joystock (Jamendo.com cc_Standard License, Jamendo S.A.)

I forgot her exuberance, energy, and love of wine and music. I'm so glad I had the chance to remember. The wine world needs more Stephanie Morton-Smalls; she helps us keep our eye on the ball.  If you've ever wondered why some wines taste better when paired with heartfelt stories or Adele ballads, “Wine Talks” with Stephanie Morton Small and Paul Kalemkiarian has your answer (and maybe your calling as an emotional sommelier). Stephanie, a four-time founder and true wine globe-trotter, dives headfirst into the intoxicating marriage of wine, song, and feeling. She shares how her new venture, Wine Whisper and Song, combines storytelling, original music, and wine in a way that makes your palate and your soul say “cheers.” Spoiler: This isn't your typical stuffy Napa tasting—think less “essence of leather-bound books” and more “let the wine remind you of your first crush or last breakup.” Paul and Stephanie uncork witty wisdom about letting wine seduce you emotionally before you bone up on tannin types or the history of Madame Clicquot. It turns out that the most memorable wines are the ones that make you feel—and maybe cry (then laugh) at the table.

What makes old Malbec vines planted in the 1920s so rare and valuable today? Why would a Canadian winemaker head to Mendoza, Argentina, to start a winery? What's one of the biggest challenges holding back Canadian wine and how can consumers change that? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Ann Sperling & Peter Gamble. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Highlights What makes Devotion different from other On Seven wines? What inspired Peter to look beyond Canada to Argentina for winemaking? How did he decide on the particular vineyard to purchase? What is massal selection in viticulture? How did Versado end up with such old vines, and how does this show up in the wine? Are there aspects of Malbec that are similar to Pinot? How have Ann and Peter revitalized the Leily Winery? What are the differences and similarities between Leily and On Seven Chardonnays? What would Ann and Peter like their legacies to be in the Canadian wine industry? What are the greatest threats to the Canadian wine industry? Which three figures in the wine industry would Peter invite to a dream dinner party?   Key Takeaways In the 1905 to 1925 period in Argentina, winemakers at the time planted the greatest genetic diversity amongst the Malbec vines, because they were still learning about it. Their Versado vineyard reflects that time when genetic diversity was appreciated. We visited a lot of wine regions in the world for the meetings, both fun and a necessity, and one of them was Mendoza and loved the climate - a really interesting climate from the point of view of creating flavors and grapes, and really liked the lifestyle as well. We essentially decided it'd be interesting to do something small there that also gives us a second harvest during New Year's. So we can practice twice as often. That was the driver, the potential quality there. They've been talking about this for probably the 40 years that they've been making wine and and they want to figure out how to have lasting consumer engagement. They have a lot of devoted buyers, but they also know kind of the monopoly culture is that, well, if the wine you were looking for today isn't on the shelf, you can buy something else. Promoting the message of buying directly from the wineries, and if you want to try that wine that's made in Nova Scotia or BC, that you actually can order it and have it shipped to your home province. Those interprovincial trade barriers aren't real. There's lots of wine shipping that's taking place already. Just get on your computer like you do with so many other products that you buy and buy online.   About Ann Sperling & Peter Gamble Often referred to as the “power couple” of the Canadian wine industry, Peter Gamble and Ann Sperling have long pursued the pinnacles of wine quality in Canadian vineyards and wineries. Following her upbringing on her family's Okanagan Valley vineyard, Ann turned to the soil for the character and complexity of her wines. Acknowledged as a Canadian pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture, ‘terroir' was at the centre of her philosophy and she is renowned for her head winemaking roles at Malivoire, Southbrook, and Sperling Vineyards. Peter, a lifetime wine industry professional, has worked alongside Canada's most passionate winemakers to achieve greater heights with our finest appellation wines. Since 2000, Peter has provided expertise in ultra-premium winemaking operations, including: Stratus, Ravine, Benjamin Bridge and Lightfoot & Wolfville. With the purchase of a top-flight ancient Malbec planting in Mendoza, Argentina, in 2008, Ann and Peter broadened their winemaking activities, but Niagara remains their cherished home base. Current focus is on these Niagara projects: On Seven, Lailey and Stonebridge Vineyards and Dobbin Estate.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/343.

La Grande Année, Maison BollingerJe suis très heureux de vous retrouver pour ce format dédié aux vins d'émotion. Aujourd'hui, honneur à la cuvée La Grande Année de Bollinger. Pourquoi celle-ci en particulier me direz-vous ? Ce qui a mis le feu à mes papilles et mon cerveau, c'est une dégustation exceptionnelle organisée en février dernier à Wine Paris. Les millésimes 2015, 2005, 1999, 1989 et 1983 en jéroboam en provenance directe des caves de la maison Bollinger. Excusez du peu. Sous la houlette de Denis Bunner, chef de cave de Bollinger, et d'Alexis Goujard, journaliste à la Revue du Vin de France, le moment fut magique. Il n'en fallait pas plus pour me convaincre que cette cuvée avait toute sa place dans ce format spécial vin mythique. Pour commencer, juste à la sortie de la dégustation, j'ai eu le plaisir de discuter avec Laura Brousset de la maison Recaredo en Espagne. Je me suis ensuite entretenu avec dans l'ordre Alexis Goujard, David Biraud (directeur de la Kedge Wine School et ancien Chef Sommelier du Mandarin Oriental), Denis Bunner et enfin Andréa, fine organisatrice des dîners effervescents que vous pouvez retrouver sous le pseudo @andee_a_table sur instagram.Régalez-vous !Réalisation : Romain BeckerPost-production : Emmanuel NappeyMusique originale : Emmanuel DoréGraphismes : ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Léna Mazilu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On se retrouve très vite pour de nouvelles aventures viticoles. D'ici-là éclatez-vous et buvez bon !Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Sometimes when you speak to a consultant, you get consultant gobeldy gook. I can't tell you how many consultants I hired along the way at the WIne of the Month Club, but suffice it to say, most did not perform as expected. Why? Because selling wine is different than anything else in the world.   Courtney O'Brien is different. She knows wine, she knows branding and she brings corporate America along for the ride. If you're looking for a lighthearted yet informative take on this episode of Wine Talks with Paul K, here's a quick summary with a wink: This episode is like a masterclass in beverage branding—with a side of humor and plenty of entrepreneurial reality checks. Paul Kalemkiarian sits down with Courtney O'Brien, a seasoned beverage veteran whose resume runs the gamut from water (Evian) to soda (Coca-Cola) and finally to wine (Gallo). She's done it all—from “chief bottle washer” to innovator and now, consultant helping wine brands rise above the “product” level to become true brands. Key takeaways from their chat: Brand vs. Product: Courtney suggests most wines are “products”—not brands. A brand, she says, is more than the stuff in the bottle, it's an idea that people can connect with and rally around. (If your wine label just says “red,” you might want to call Courtney.) From Big Beverage to Boutique Bottles: Courtney shares laughs and learnings from corporate giants (Evian, Coca-Cola) to navigating the regulation-laden world of alcoholic beverages at Gallo. Spoiler: Half her marketing tricks from soda didn't work in wine because wine has A LOT more rules. What's the hardest for wine entrepreneurs? It isn't always what you expect. Sometimes longtime winemakers come to her saying, “Help! Sales are flat, my DTC costs are sky-high, and I don't even know who's drinking my stuff—other than my mom.” Courtney's advice? Before you chase TikTok fame or try to ride every trend, ask yourself what you actually want to achieve. (Pro tip: “Sell more wine” doesn't count until you know to whom, why, and how much.) Innovation means different things: Want to slap your fancy Napa cab in a can? Considering non-alcoholic offerings? Courtney says: it depends. Know your brand, your consumer, your goals—then you can decide if canned Merlot or non-alc Bordeaux makes any sense. The Experience Matters: Paul and Courtney agree that great wine is about more than taste—it's about the memories made, the story told, and the setting. (Whether that's a luxury tour in France or just a really fun dinner with friends and family.) There are laughs about management consulting, fun asides about industry legends fronting bottles in grocery stores, and a nice splash of advice for anyone dreaming of turning their wine project into a lasting, meaningful brand. In short: If you want your wine to be more than a commodity, make sure it tells a story, stands for something, and—above all—know who you're talking to and why. And maybe leave the TikTok dances until after you've figured that out. #winepodcast #winetalks #courtneyobrien #paulkalemkiarian #wineindustry #winemarketing #brandbuilding #winebusiness #corporatewine #wineinnovation #beverageindustry #winenews #entrepreneurship #brandstrategy #winelover #wineconsulting #dtcwine #winebrands #winestrategy #womeninwine  

More Lodi, Great Stories, Zinfandel, Young Blood, Earthquakes and interview with Jeff Farthing, Director of Winemaking, Michael David Winery in Lodi, CA. 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 CA wine, chatting along the way with the experts who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Jeff Farthing, Michael David Winery. 

What were the key challenges and breakthroughs that shaped the BC and Ontario wine industries in the 1980s and 90s? What makes or breaks a new wine project, and why is finding the right vineyard often the most time-consuming step? What made Peter believe that Niagara-on-the-Lake could produce exceptional Chardonnay? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Ann Sperling & Peter Gamble. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Highlights What was Ann's best memory from growing up on the farm? When did Ann and Peter know that they wanted to work in the wine industry? How did Ann and Peter meet? What was the first bottle of wine Ann and Peter shared? How do Ann and Peter navigate their interwoven personal and professional lives? How do they negotiate professional disagreements, and who chooses the wine for dinner? What were the major challenges and opportunities in the BC and Ontario wine industry in the 1980s and 90s? In the early days, how did Peter envision the future of Ontario wines? What are some of the reasons certain vintages almost didn't make it into the bottle? What do you look for when considering a new project? What makes Ann and Peter different from the stereotypical flying winemakers? What were the signs that Niagara-on-the-Lake could produce exceptional Chardonnay? How has working on a small, focused vineyard impacted Ann and Peter's winemaking choices? Why must you suffer to make top-notch wines?   Key Takeaways It was in the early 80s in BC and maybe slightly before that in Ontario, that estate wineries became a thing. Prior to that, that meant there were a few really large wineries, not really making estate or single vineyards. Vineyards were a source of bulk wine for the most part. The hunt for the vineyard became a very important one. We looked at over 230 vineyards before we found one. I think everyone there was on the verge of giving up on this, thinking “Well, they're not really going to buy anything.” Because we'd get it to a certain stage, then we do soil analysis, and we weren't quite happy, or we talked to people who had made wine from the vineyard or something would come up, and we just wouldn't quite be where we wanted to be with the quality of the vineyard. I often work on the basis of paradigms, where I'll take a look at a wine sold throughout the world and say, you know, I think this could be done really well in this area. You know what it is you might be able to accomplish within the parameters that you have - the obvious things, the terroir, the exposures to soils, the temperatures in general.   About Ann Sperling & Peter Gamble Often referred to as the “power couple” of the Canadian wine industry, Peter Gamble and Ann Sperling have long pursued the pinnacles of wine quality in Canadian vineyards and wineries. Following her upbringing on her family's Okanagan Valley vineyard, Ann turned to the soil for the character and complexity of her wines. Acknowledged as a Canadian pioneer of organic and biodynamic viticulture, ‘terroir' was at the centre of her philosophy and she is renowned for her head winemaking roles at Malivoire, Southbrook, and Sperling Vineyards. Peter, a lifetime wine industry professional, has worked alongside Canada's most passionate winemakers to achieve greater heights with our finest appellation wines. Since 2000, Peter has provided expertise in ultra-premium winemaking operations, including: Stratus, Ravine, Benjamin Bridge and Lightfoot & Wolfville. With the purchase of a top-flight ancient Malbec planting in Mendoza, Argentina, in 2008, Ann and Peter broadened their winemaking activities, but Niagara remains their cherished home base. Current focus is on these Niagara projects: On Seven, Lailey and Stonebridge Vineyards and Dobbin Estate.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/342.

The Master Sommelier is a commitment to hospitality. So it makes you wonder what a young girl, who admittedly called herself lazy, would take on such a commitment. As life would have it, the challenges became clear to Stefanie Hehn, and each ladder rung became the next challenge. And I get it. I love hospitality. Here is her story on getting to the utmost revered  degree in the subject.   Stefanie Hehn—master sommelier extraordinaire from Hamburg's fabulous Fontenay Hotel—brings a whole philosophy to wine service that goes well beyond being just an order-taker. She tells her team their mission is to turn each guest into the superhero of their own wine story. That means memorable moments, not just pouring what's popular. From their conversation, we learn that German wine trends can be as surprising as a plot twist in a telenovela. Riesling's always beloved, but lately German Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder, for the wine geeks) is stealing the spotlight, with guest explorations into lesser-known varietals like Silvaner for adventurous diners. Stefanie is a champion of mixing the classics with hidden gems—she curates the hotel's wine list with both her guests' favorites and her personal discoveries from around the world. And just so you know, being a master sommelier isn't all swirling glasses and elegant pours—it takes a mountain of study, relentless passion, and sometimes the bravery to leave a steady job to pursue that next-level sommelier qualification. On the floor, Stefanie loves when guests give her some direction (“here's my budget, here's what we like!”), but she's also ready to whisk you away with a surprise pairing if you're up for the adventure. Whether people want to talk organic, biodynamic, orange wine, or good old Bordeaux, the most important ingredient is always to create a special, personal moment—that's what makes people come back (and maybe brag to their friends later). So, fancy a glass of Champagne, Pinot Noir, or perhaps a pink Pinot Grigio with a story? Stefanie's here to make sure you leave with a smile—and maybe a new favorite wine you've never heard of before. If you've got more specific questions about Stefanie's approach, the trends she's seeing, or German wine culture, just ask! #winepodcast #sommeliers #WineTalks #StefanieHehn #PaulKalemkiarian #Germanwine, #hospitality #MichelinStar #FontenayHotel #Riesling #PinotNoir #winepairing #winelover #wineeducation #wineindustry #finewine #winelist #organicwine #champagne #wineexperience #mastersommelier    

This show is brought to you in association with iDealwine. In fiction, Shangri-La was a mythical place of boundless human wisdom and agelessness. These days, after China re-named a city in north-west Yunnan Province, it's the backdrop of a potential game-changer for Chinese wine.This particular backdrop is forbidding. Think: precipitous mountain gorges above the raging Mekong River at nearly 3,000 metres altitude. A patchwork of small-holding vineyards cling to the hillsides. Prunings are fed to yaks. Tea, tobacco and mushrooms are Yunnan's historic crops. No wonder the wine potential in the Meili Mountain region long remained hidden.That is, until a particularly stubborn and resilient Australian winemaker, Tony Jordan, embarked on an arduous search on behalf of global luxury group LVMH to unearth a Chinese Grand Cru terroir. He found Shangri-La. But would his bet pay off?In this episode we discover the intriguing story of Ao Yun - how (on earth) it came to be, just how challenging this operation is to run, and most importantly - what's the wine actually like? At nearly £300 a bottle, it has a lot to live up to. We talk to winemaker Maxence Dulou, Chinese wine expert Janet Wang and Berry Brothers & Rudd Asia buyer Tom Baxter. We also deliver our verdict on the wine whose name means, 'soaring above the clouds'.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 contact info, together with all details from this episode, including some eye-catching photos, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S6 E21 - AO YUN: The Insider's GuideInstagram: @susieandpeterSponsors: iDealwine

Is a $400 wine really ten times better than a $40 one? Does the right glass really improve your wine and is it worth it when the size makes you look ridiculous? Why do wine labels matter and should the label's look be part of every wine review? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Charles Jennings and Paul Keers, co-authors of the hilarious book I Bought It So I'll Drink It. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Three of you are going to win a copy of their terrific book,, I Bought It So I'll Drink It. 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! You can find the wines we discussed here.   Highlights Why do we feel guilty about window shopping when it comes to wine? What's the worst wine gadget or gimmick Paul and Charles have encountered? How did a 1947 Sauterne create a bond between Paul and a French wine seller? What was their most triumphant wine deal discovery? Are there elements that expensive wine delivers, that bargain wines can't? Why are Charles and Paul suspicious of mixed cases of wine? Has the quality and perception of box wines changed? What's the strangest vessel Paul and Charles have drunk wine from? What was it like drinking wine at 10 Downing Street and Lambeth Palace? What was Queen Victoria's tipple like? Why does Charles love drinking on his own? Which current wine trends will we look back on as ridiculous? Which wines would Charles and Paul now pair with their favourite childhood foods? Who would Paul and Charles love to share a bottle of wine with? Why should wine critics write about wine labels in their reviews?   Key Takeaways Charles and Paul believe there is a greater experience to be gained from drinking better wine, but that the return for your money plateaus quickly. If you go up from a £10 wine to a £30 wine, you will really notice the difference and have a tremendously greater experience. But then if you multiply that by 10 and go from £40 to £400, the difference in quality isn't that great. If I've got people around for dinner and I sit at the end of the table and everybody else has got normal wine glasses, I look like a complete plonker. And I'd love to sit there, “Oh, it's magnificent.” And they're going to think, what an idiot. So unfortunately, it doesn't get much use. It does enhance the taste of the Bordeaux, there's no doubt about it, but I'm so embarrassed sitting there drinking out of this thing the size of a melon that it really doesn't get much use. Charles and Paul mention wine labels because they think that they are ignored by most wine writers, and they're terribly important for two reasons. Firstly, because they're about the only marketing that most bottles of wine have, because we go into shops and that's all we can see, the labels. And second, if you're setting a table for dinner, you've invested in the table, in the dishware, the cutlery, the glasses to set up this beautiful thing. Why would you put a bottle of wine on the table - however it tastes - if it looks terrible? Wine critics should always say what the label looks like and whether it would look good on the table.   About Charles Jennings & Paul Keers Charles Jennings and Paul Keers are award-winning writers based in London, England. Charles and Paul co-authored the wine blog Sediment, described by New Statesman writer and Guardian literary critic Nick Lezard as “the finest wine blog available to humanity.” The blog became the basis for their book, I Bought It So I'll Drink It. Book-Prize-winning novelist Julian Barnes called it “The funniest wine-book I've read in a long time. Not just laugh-aloud funny but snortingly, choke-on-your-cornflakes funny – up there with Kingsley Amis and Jay McInerney.” Their book won the prestigious André Simon Award.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/341.

Investing in wine might seem risky. Might seem like a horizon uncrossed. There is growing success rate in wine investments and it takes a trained and experience broker/agent to know where and when. Marc Lefleur might be the only man who can make a conversation about asset classes as delicious as a glass of aged Barolo. In this episode, you'll travel from the sun-dappled slopes of Piemonte to the bustling banking circles of Geneva, all while unraveling the mysteries of wine investment with someone fluent in four languages and even more terroirs. You'll learn why not every cellar-worthy wine turns to gold, and why the idea that you can just “buy pallets of wine and hope that in ten years you'll sell them at a better price” is more myth than market truth. Marc demystifies the romantic shroud of Bordeaux, reveals the artisanal heart still beating in the hills of Barolo, and exposes how climate change is tipping the scales for Nebbiolo in ways that might surprise even the savviest collector. You'll come away with an insider's view of how global forces, tradition, and innovation intersect in the collectible wine market—and why terms like “scarcity” and “terroir” aren't just marketing buzzwords, but real factors with measurable impact on the future value of your cellar. Whether you're a collector flirting with investment-grade bottles or a curious sipper wondering what makes wine an “intellectual part of the meal,” this conversation will give you the tools to separate perception from reality, and help you rethink what it means for a wine—and its drinker—to stand the test of time. Wine Investment: Reality vs. Misconception Not all wines appreciate over time: The idea you can buy any wine, store it, and expect profits is false—most wines won't increase in value after 10 years. Investment-grade wines are rare: Only a very small percentage of wines are worth considering as investments; quality, pedigree, and rarity matter most. Speculation vs. investing: Speculation is chasing quick financial gains, while true wine investment is a long-term horizon (10–20+ years). Cycles and market timing: The wine market, like any other, is cyclical; there are favorable and less favorable periods for investment. The Importance of Rarity & Scarcity Perceived vs. actual scarcity: Even top Bordeaux first growths, like Mouton Rothschild or Margaux, produce large quantities (hundreds of thousands of bottles)—they're not as rare as people often think. Burgundy & Piedmont (Piemonte) are where true scarcity lives: Top Burgundy and Barolo/Barbaresco producers may release just a few barrels (sometimes less than 5,000 bottles) from single sites. Demand for top wines is shaped by volume, pedigree, and market cycles.   #WineInvesting #FineWine #WineCollection #WineTalksPodcast #MarcLefleur #BordeauxWine #PiedmontWines #WineEducation

Hanging in Lodi, good at science, space, the final frontier, zero gravity and interview with Jeff Farthing, Director of Winemaking, Michael David Winery in Lodi, CA. 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 CA wine, chatting along the way with the experts who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Jeff Farthing, Michael David Winery. P1

How does using everyday metaphors make wine writing more relatable? How has the pressure to be an expert in everything turned simple pleasures into social competition? Does buying your own wine versus getting free samples make you a better wine writer? In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Charles Jennings and Paul Keers, co-authors of the hilarious book I Bought It So I'll Drink It. You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks   Giveaway Three of you are going to win a copy of their terrific book,, I Bought It So I'll Drink It. 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! You can find the wines we discussed here.   Highlights How did Charles and Paul meet? What was the first bottle of wine they shared, and how did they realize they had the same approach to bad wine? What was it like to meet legendary wine critic Oz Clarke? When did Paul and Charles discover their love for writing? What were Charles and Paul's best and worst moments in their writing careers? How did their Sediment blog create a stir with the PR people in the wine industry? Where did the title “I Bought It So I'll Drink It” come from? Did buying their own wines give them a different perspective than other wine writers who are given promotional bottles? How did the collaborative approach to writing I Bought It So I'll Drink It work? Which writers have influenced Charles and Paul's writing? Is the tension between wine snobbery and enjoyment unique to wine? What was the most pretentious wine moment Paul and Charles witnessed? How did Charles and Paul develop their distinctive vocabularies for describing wines? Which overused wine descriptors do they find cringy? What's changed about wine criticism or writing since they published their book?   Key Takeaways Charles and Paul explain that they drew their descriptions from real life. There's a tendency in wine writing to use metaphors that you wouldn't necessarily experience. I mean, I've got a cat, but I really wouldn't use the term cat's pee in describing any wine. I don't know what cat's pee actually tastes like. Whereas if I talk about wine smelling of ink, well, people know what ink smells like, and it seemed more appropriate to use ink as an analogy. The authors say that everybody has to be a bit of an expert about everything these days. It's not just a question of, “Oh, we've been to France, we've gone to Italy, we've made it to the United States,” or something like that. It's how you did it, and where you stayed, and what you did, and what tours you went on, and it's so full of itself. Then it becomes a transaction when talking with friends. As Charles and Paul think the fact that they did buy thei wine is quite fundamental to a difference between Sediment and other wine writing. They had to do the same thing, go out and buy it. Maybe that gave us a slightly different slant on wine buying and drinking as well.   About Charles Jennings & Paul Keers Charles Jennings and Paul Keers are award-winning writers based in London, England. Charles and Paul co-authored the wine blog Sediment, described by New Statesman writer and Guardian literary critic Nick Lezard as “the finest wine blog available to humanity.” The blog became the basis for their book, I Bought It So I'll Drink It. Book-Prize-winning novelist Julian Barnes called it “The funniest wine-book I've read in a long time. Not just laugh-aloud funny but snortingly, choke-on-your-cornflakes funny – up there with Kingsley Amis and Jay McInerney.” Their book won the prestigious André Simon Award.         To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/340.

This show is brought to you in association with iDealwine. It's not every day the world of wine is described in terms like: 'adrenaline rush,' and going 'crazy'. Welcome to the world of online wine auctions, particularly that of iDealwine (sponsors of this show). iDealwine is a treasure trove not only of wine goodies but also high-tech functionality - so in this episode we explore how these online wine auctions work and why they might be worth trying out if you haven't already.Whisper it - but apparently they're pretty easy, accessible (with prices starting at €1) and...fun.We talk about all this as well as analyse the wine market trends of today and tomorrow with iDealwine co-founder Angélique de Lencquesaing. We also hear from iDealwine customer Jordan O'Brien in Toronto as to why we should, in his words, 'dive right in.'Along the way we talk hidden gems, Japanese Pinot Noir, 4 o'clock starts, fake wine and 1965 vinegar...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 contact info, together with all details from this episode, including full listings of the wines, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S6 E20 - 'Adrenaline rush': Wine Auctions and Trends with iDealwineInstagram: @susieandpeterSponsors: iDealwine

BREAKING: A titanic showdown between top champagnes and the best of the rest has been settled. The victors? Headline writers...This is an impromptu pod reflecting the momentous nature of this Battle of the Bubbles tasting, which took place at the London Wine Fair 2025. Sixteen top judges (including both of us); 26 top wines, including some of Champagne's most reputable (and highly priced) bottles - and some quite astonishing results.In this episode we give the lowdown on the results and reflect on what it all means. Including the intriguing undercurrents and subtexts, as well as our personal insights and conclusions. (And yes, we do disagree...) There are some great value recommendations in there too. 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 contact info, together with all details from this episode, including full listings of the wines, on our website: Show notes for Wine Blast S6 E19 - Battle of the BubblesThe video version of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel.Instagram: @susieandpeter

An episode chock full of new grapes & places & wine styles unlike other regions of Italy we've explored so far. Click play to see what's unique, yet necessary, to find & sip from Trentino-Alto Adige.   Resources from this episode: Books:  The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours [Kindle Edition], Robinson, J., Harding, J., Vouillamoz, J. (2013) Websites:  Alto Adige Wines: https://www.altoadigewines.com/en/home/1-0.html Britannica: Other Italic Peoples https://www.britannica.com/topic/ancient-Italic-people/Other-Italic-peoples#ref63584 Italia.IT: Atmospheric Nature, Art, Culture, Sport and Good Food - Welcome to Alto Adige https://www.italia.it/en/south-tyrol/guide-history-facts Italian Wine Central: Trentino DOC https://italianwinecentral.com/denomination/trentino-doc/ Quattrocalici: Alto Adige o dell'Alto Adige DOC - La denominazione Alto Adige o dell'Alto Adige DOC https://www.quattrocalici.it/denominazioni/alto-adige-o-dell-alto-adige-doc/   Glass in Session Episodes Relevant to this Episode:   S3E4: Wine from Dried Grapes https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/s3e4-wine-from-dried-grapes S18E4: Lake Constance - One Lake, Wine from Three Countries https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/lake-constance-one-lake-wine-from-three-countries-s18e4 S18E5: Lake Garda - Surrounded by Wine regions https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/lake-garda-surrounded-by-wine-regions-s18e5 S19E1: TrentoDOC on Deck - Classic Method Sparkling Wine from Northern Italy https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/website/trentodoc-on-deck-classic-method-sparkling-wine-from-northern-italy-s19e1   Glass in Session® swag mentioned in this show: https://www.teepublic.com/user/glass-in-session   Glass in Session® is a registered trademark of Vino With Val, LLC. Music:  “Write Your Story” by Joystock (Jamendo.com cc_Standard License, Jamendo S.A.)

Lodi, Portuguese & Spanish grape varieties, Bastardo, Boots and interview with Stuart Spencer, winemaker, St Amant Winery in Lodi. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and its 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 Stuart Spencer, winemaker, St Amant Winery. 

One of the more intriguing elements of wine is that it can appeal to a wide range of people. In wide range, I mean it has appeal on so many different levels; a novice can just enjoy their favorite wines from the supermarket and delve into the history when inclined; a collector can peel each wine back and learn of its origin and take it a step deeper, the wine enthusiast that wants to put their toe in the water of wine knowledge can enroll in one the wine certification organizations and earn a certification and then there's a couple of levels of wine knowledge until you basically stop at Charles Ludington. With two bachelor degrees, one masters and a Phd. One might say he has reached a level few, if any, other academians have reached. And because of his time in front of students in a class room, Charles can articulate this knowledge in an understandable and intriguing way. If you think the world of wine is all swirling glasses and sniffing bouquets, wait until you've heard Charles Ludington—Chad, to his friends—uncork a few bottles of historical truth. Armed with not just one, but four degrees in history (and a résumé that includes playing basketball in Paris and working on the New York wine retail frontlines), Chad isn't your typical wine academic; he's something of a one-man bridge between eras, cultures, and even social classes. Dive into this episode, and you'll learn how wine is far more than a drink—it is a lens onto everything from class warfare to international politics, from covert Irish merchants shaping Bordeaux's legacy to NBA stars dueling over Grand Crus in LA bistros. Chad traces the surprising paths that led Bordeaux's cellars to be filled by Irish hands and explores why today's elite collectors find meaning in a dusty bottle—sometimes as a symbol of status, sometimes a sensory revelation, but always as a marker of time and place. You'll unpeel the layered tales of how wine moved from scandalous blends—once the height of fashion—to the hyper-strict appellations, and discover the very modern decline in wine's appeal among young people, who instead find excitement in natural wines or, oddly enough, craft beer and cocktails. Along the way, you'll reconsider the meaning of terroir, discovering just how blurred the boundaries of authenticity, tradition, and marketing really are. By the end, not only will you be able to spot the politics in your glass and the shifting gender codes of rosé, you'll also taste the romantic—and sometimes subversive—human stories that echo through every sip. This episode braids together centuries of intrigue, innovation, and, yes, a fair bit of competitive one-upmanship—pulling back the curtain on how wine tells the story of us all. #WineHistory #WineCulture #Bordeaux #NBAWine #WinePolitics #Terroir #WineEducation #WinePodcast