She is joined by Jamie Goode -  wine writer, judge, lecturer and author with a PhD in plant biology - to unpack the science behind grafting, the myth and magic of old vines, forgotten grape varieties, and whether ungrafted vines truly produce better wines.

From Japan’s wax paper “hats” protecting grape bunches, to Barossa’s centenarian vineyards, to modern disease-resistant varieties like Voltis and Floréal, this episode blends history, science and future-facing viticulture in one fascinating conversation.

If you’ve ever wondered whether ungrafted vines are superior, what actually happens during grafting, or how climate change might reshape grape varieties - this is your episode.

02:59 – The most surprising wine region Jamie has visited so far is Japan’s with it’s unique vineyard practices.

04:45 – Koshu explained - is it Japan’s most exciting grape variety, or are international grapes performing better?

06:38 – Behind the scenes of filming The Science of Wine (available to watch on WinemastersTV or Prime Video) - vineyards, Mosel landscapes and the unexpected challenges of production.

09:54 – Composing the soundtrack on the spot - Jamie’s spontaneous vineyard music recordings.

10:41 – Ungrafted vines: are they genuinely better, or is the answer more nuanced?

15:24 – The phylloxera story step by step - how one 19th-century plant import reshaped global wine.

20:53 – Forgotten varieties and whether they could make a comeback in the face of climate change.

22:46 – Loïc Pasquet (Liber Pater) and the revival of pre-phylloxera Bordeaux varieties.

29:04 – Francs de Pied movement - preserving ungrafted vineyards and the debate around their relevance.

31:21 – EU regulations and why planting ungrafted vines is often restricted.

31:55 – Rootstock resistance failures in California and Australia - are we facing new phylloxera risks?

34:33 – Soil microbiome experiments - could beneficial microorganisms protect ungrafted vines?

36:20 – How do you graft a vine? Omega grafts, English grafts and T-bud grafting explained.

40:49 – Inside a vine nursery - what really happens behind the scenes.

42:23 – Old vines vs young vines - do older vines truly produce better wines?

46:05 – Why old vines often yield less fruit - aging, pruning and vine physiology.

47:25 – Recommended wines from ungrafted and old vines - Barossa, Chile, Argentina and beyond.

49:09 – At-home wine experiments - blending your own Bordeaux-style wine and even propagating vine cuttings.

51:28 – What’s next for Jamie - new book releases and upcoming projects.

52:37 – Links to Jamie’s books and further reading.

53:21 – Next week: Deep Dive Flashcards - The Rhône Valley.

Have you tasted wines from ungrafted vines - a true pied franc? Did they feel purer, more transparent… or is that simply romance in the glass?

📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Cheers to you 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

She is joined by José Vouillamoz, leading authority on grape origins and DNA profiling, co-author of Wine Grapes, and author of Swiss Grapes, to explore Valais’ ancient varieties, genetic mysteries, heroic viticulture and why this small region quietly produces some of the world’s best Syrah.

From Petit Arvine and Amigne to Cornalin, Humagne Rouge and age-worthy Chasselas (Fendant), this is a fascinating deep dive into Swiss wine history, science and flavour.

02:59 The coolest fact about Valais - the world’s smallest vineyard owned by the Dalai Lama.

05:21 Janina links back to her episode (Ep 75) on the most unique vineyards in the world.

05:59 Why Valais is genetically unique - indigenous grapes found nowhere else.

07:22 Is Valais the most concentrated region for native grape varieties?

10:01 The Alpine landscape - terraces, dry stone walls and heroic viticulture.

12:22 Where to begin with indigenous grapes - Petit Arvine explained.

14:02 Angelo Gaja’s failed attempt to plant Arvine in Piemonte.

15:47 Arvine vs Petit Arvine – understanding the naming confusion.

16:51 How producers label Arvine today - Petit Arvine or simply Arvine?

17:20 The rare Gross Arvine - what it is and why it almost disappeared.

19:14 What does Gross Arvine taste like?

19:58 Amigne - Valais’ misunderstood chameleon grape.

21:15 The bee-label system that indicates sweetness levels in Amigne wines.

22:24 Heida (Savagnin/Païen/Traminer) - is it indigenous to Valais?

24:07 Can you identify Valais Heida in a blind tasting?

26:21 Other white grapes worth seeking out - Humagne Blanc and Rèze.

28:57 Chasselas (Fendant) - why it plays such an important role in Valais.

31:19 The ageing mystery - how low-acid Chasselas can evolve for decades.

33:10 Humagne Blanc vs Humagne Rouge - is there a genetic connection?

36:04 Cornalin (Rouge du Pays) - why this red is worth discovering.

38:28 Humagne Rouge - flavour profile and distinctive character.

39:35 Syrah in Valais - why this may be its northern quality limit.

45:26 If you try only one grape from Valais - which should it be?

46:15 Must-visit spots - Zermatt, the Matterhorn, Aletsch Glacier and Visperterminen vineyards.

49:26 The food to try - authentic Swiss raclette and ideal wine pairings.

51:23 José’s book Swiss Grapes and the upcoming updated edition.

To discover more about the Valais wine region go to https://swisswinevalais.ch/en/

Follow José Vouillamoz on Instagram for more insights into Swiss wine, grape genetics and fascinating discoveries from the world of viticulture.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Cheers to you 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

In this episode, she’s joined by Baltic wine expert and educator Agnese Gintere to explore the lesser-known indigenous grapes of the Langhe. From the so-called “white Barolo” Nascetta to Pelaverga, Freisa, Dolcetto, Barbera, Arneis and Favorita, this is a love letter to the region’s unsung heroes.

Expect producer recommendations, travel tips, value alternatives to Barolo - and yes, a little Nebbiolo obsession too.

04:04 Why Langhe? The recent rise of Barolo & Barbaresco and why the region feels magical.

06:04 Falling in love with Langhe - the wines first, then the fog, hills and landscape.

08:33 If not Nebbiolo, then what? The real unsung hero grapes of Langhe.

10:31 Nascetta explained - the so-called “white Barolo” and its revival from near extinction.

12:45 What Agnese learned about Nascetta’s history and ageing potential.

15:05 Pelaverga - the sommelier’s insider grape with earthy, herbal character.

17:17 Pelaverga experimentation - sparkling styles and white versions.

18:53 Freisa - Nebbiolo’s close relative and its quiet revival.

23:27 Dolcetto - “little sweet one” or gentle hills? Style, structure and best areas to explore.

26:45 Dogliani DOCG, ageing potential and value bottles.

28:47 Barbera - plush fruit, high alcohol and the future of north-facing slopes.

31:49 Link to Janina’s previous podcast episode (Ep 166) featuring Braida (Barbera specialists).

33:12 Respecting terroir - why Barbera and Nebbiolo shouldn’t compete for the same vineyard sites.

33:46 White grapes of Langhe - Arneis vs Favorita (aka Vermentino).

37:05 Agnese’s must-visit place - Serralunga d’Alba and the magic of the hills.

39:51 Best-value Nebbiolo outside Barolo & Barbaresco - Roero, Gattinara and Ghemme.

41:08 A magical winery visit - Enrico Rivetto and other iconic estates.

41:33 Estates mentioned - Rivetto, Gaja and Aldo Conterno.

44:06 Best time to visit Langhe - truffle season vs early autumn.

46:17 If you could only drink one non-Nebbiolo Langhe wine - Grignolino (“baby Nebbiolo”).

49:42 Next week - Switzerland, Chasselas, Petit Arvine and DNA expert José Vouillamoz.

Watch Agnese's YouTube Channel No Sediment HERE.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Cheers to you 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

From the Garnacha revival and the evolution of premium Cava to forgotten grape varieties like Bobal and Airén, this episode explores the exciting diversity of modern Spanish wine. And if you stay until the end, you’ll get a brilliant crash course in how to understand (and truly enjoy) Sherry.

02:48 What it’s really like attending Barcelona Wine Week - 90 DOs and 1,300+ wineries.

03:44 90 Spanish DOs represented - how do you even approach tasting at that scale?

06:26 Rosé masterclass - modern Spanish rosado styles beyond the stereotype.

11:07 Garnacha’s revival - altitude, drought resistance and shedding its rustic past.

12:08 Garnacha plantings then vs now - why Tempranillo took over and why Garnacha is rising again.

16:08 Cava’s image problem - how premium categories (Cava de Guarda Superior) are reshaping perceptions.

18:26 Cava with food - why acidity, salt and texture make it a perfect pairing partner.

22:33 What is “Paraje Calificado”? Understanding Cava’s highest quality tier.

23:58 The shift toward quality - organic focus and long lees ageing.

24:41 Standout Cava producers - bottles that truly impressed.

27:02 Discovering DO Alella - Spain’s smallest DO and the grape Pansa Blanca.

29:19 ESWR early Pansa Blanca tasting video.

31:10 Xarel·lo beyond Cava - texture, skin contact and alternative winemaking styles.

33:04 Bodegas Cerrón & rediscovering Airén - from workhorse grape to serious wine.

36:40 Bobal explained - rustic reputation vs premium potential.

38:01 The use of tinajas (clay amphorae) in Utiel-Requena.

38:57 How to visit Utiel-Requena - flying into Valencia and heading inland.

40:02 Tasting Sherry at Barcelona Wine Week - including Diatomists.

40:36 ESWR previous episode featuring Diatomists.

42:11 Five facts about Sherry - dry styles, ageing under flor, food pairing power.

43:48 Cream Sherry vs Pedro Ximénez - sweetness, texture and gateway styles.

46:58 Fino vs Manzanilla - coastal ageing, flor and flavour differences.

48:51 Why Spain offers incredible stylistic diversity - sparkling, fortified, fresh reds and more.

49:14 ESWR episode on Palomino as a still wine.

49:51 Choosing your next Spanish wine - explore beyond Rioja and Albariño.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

02:32 What first drew Ian to Barolo and Barbaresco.

04:52 What is Nebbiolo? Aromas, structure and what makes it so unique.

07:15 How geography, soils and place shape Nebbiolo wines.

08:16 Finding new angles after decades of writing about Italian wine.

09:48 Ian’s favourite lesser-known native grape from Northern Italy.

11:14 A favourite lesser-known native grape from Southern Italy.

13:21 The most beautiful wine region in Italy — purely for its landscape.

14:32 Traditional vs modern Barolo — does the distinction still make sense?

17:36 Barbaresco explained — not a “softer Barolo”, but a different wine entirely.

23:05 Climate and soil differences — how the same grape creates very different wines.

24:14 Nebbiolo biotypes — what they are and why they matter.

30:23 Why so few people talk about biotypes in famous grape varieties.

34:44 What surprised Ian most while researching Barbaresco Terroir, following his earlier work on Barolo Terroir.

36:31 Is there a different attitude to Nebbiolo in Barbaresco compared to Barolo?

37:58 Practical tasting exercises to help students understand Nebbiolo.

41:47 The 181 MGAs — communes, crus and how to approach them without fear.

45:49 Real-world examples of communes and MGA differences.

46:52 Which recent vintages are best to buy and store.

48:02 Older vintages to grab and open today.

49:40 Where to find great-value Nebbiolo without buying a 20-year-old Barolo.

54:36 Two tickets giveaway — how to enter and what’s included.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

A quick shout out to this episode’s lovely sponsor Viavinum. I’ve got a special discount code that could earn up 5 or even 8% off your wine tour. Find details at the bottom.*

01:50 Fun fact: Zinfandel is Croatian - the genetic link to Crljenak Kaštelanski.

02:25 Via Vinum Wine Tours and bespoke wine travel experiences.

03:48 What makes Croatian wines special - why they’re worth exploring and travelling for.

05:12 Which region best represents Croatia today?

05:59 The impact of tourism on Dubrovnik and Dalmatia after Game of Thrones.

08:00 A three-day wine itinerary in Croatia - where to go and why.

10:00 The wine or region that first sparked Miquel’s passion for wine.

11:49 Is Plavac Mali the most widely planted indigenous red grape?

13:12 Miquel’s personal connection to Plavac Mali and its link to Zinfandel.

13:38 Plavac Mali explained - style, structure, alcohol and flavour profile.

15:41 Why Miquel chose to write the books he did – Dalmatia, Herzegovina and beyond.

18:38 Tasting Pošip – introducing the Stina project.

21:06 Janina’s tasting notes on Pošip – texture, minerality and freshness.

22:22 What makes the Stina project unique - limestone, design and terroir focus.

23:46 Buying the wine in the UK - Stina Pošip (£29 at Strictly Wine).

25:30 The new era of Croatian winemaking after independence.

31:46 What to expect from entry-level vs premium Malvazija Istarska (Malvasia Istriana).

34:13 Comparing Pošip and Malvazija Istarska – savoury vs aromatic styles.

35:06 Teran explained – what should people expect from this red grape?

38:20 Teran described in simple terms – “Maybe if Malbec was crossed with Sangiovese?”.

40:26 How far back does winemaking in Croatia really go?

41:47 The most magical winery or vineyard experiences in Croatia.

44:22 How climate change is reshaping Croatian vineyards and regions.

46:36 One bottle to represent Croatian wine – Miquel’s pick.

48:08 Other Croatian grape varieties worth knowing.

51:57 The standout wine of the last year. Visit Hudin’s Top 100 2025.

* VIAVINUM WINE TOURS:

If you’re dreaming of a wine-filled escape to Italy, I’ve got something special for you.

Book a customized wine tour of more than 6 days / 5 nights through my trusted travel partners and use my code EATSLEEPWINE to unlock an exclusive discount:

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Right now, the full range of private tours isn’t live on the website as they’re being refreshed for the new season — but if you're ready to plan something unforgettable, this is the perfect time to design your own bespoke wine adventure.

 📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

A detailed, geeky, and highly structured exploration of geography, grapes, regulations, and the stories behind the wines of Languedoc and Roussillon.

💡 Want more flashcard-style episodes? Previously, Janina has produced episodes to help with Fortified Wine and Sparkling Wine exams. You can find them here:

Ep 113: Shery, VdNs, Rutherglen Muscat

Ep 120: Port & Madeira

Ep 129: Sparkling Wine Production

Ep 136: Champagne

Ep 142: All other sparkling wines

🍷 This episode is sponsored by Zeno: Alcohol Liberated Wines (Non-Alcoholic Producer of the Year 2025 with the International London Wine Competition). The wine mentioned is the Zeno Alcohol-Liberated Red, an alcohol-free red crafted from Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon, available from Waitrose and Waitrose Cellar.

Follow Zeno on Instagram @drinkzeno.

Shownotes

00:30 Why Languedoc-Roussillon is such a fascinating and large wine region – 224,000 ha under vine, more than South Africa, Chile, Argentina or Australia.

02:00 Climate overview – Mediterranean sunshine, low rainfall (~600 mm), and the Tramontane wind, reducing disease pressure and supporting organic viticulture.

03:15 Water stress, drought years, and impacts on yields – historical low yields in 2005 & 2015.

04:30 French wine classifications – AOC vs IGP, and what they mean for rules, grape selection, yields, and freedom.

05:30 Production breakdown – only 15% of Languedoc production is AOC, IGP dominates (~70%), cooperatives historically significant (~60%).

06:15 IGP Pays d’Oc – top red, white, and rosé percentages, 10–15% of all French wine, permitted 58 grape varieties, max yields, and affordability.

07:45 Principal grape varieties – Syrah, Grenache Noir, Merlot, Carignan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay.

08:30 AOC rules – minimum two grape varieties, at least one principal, blending rules for red wines.

09:15 Languedoc key AOCs (west → east) – Malepère & Cabardès (Atlantic-influenced), blending percentages, minimum principal grape percentages.

11:00 Limoux – sparkling wine history (first in 1531), key grapes, relevance to Diploma sparkling wine studies.

12:00 Corbières – fourth largest in France, hilly, up to 450 m, key red blends, sub-AOC Corbières-Boutenac with Carignan dominance.

13:15 Fitou – coastal vs inland differences, soil impact on concentration, blending rules.

14:00 La Clape – red and white, warm and arid, Grenache Blanc/Bourboulenc minimums for whites.

14:45 Minervois – typical red blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsault), max 80% for any one variety, altitude impact on acidity and freshness.

15:30 Minervois-La Livinière – higher altitude, structured, fresher wines.

16:00 Faugères – schist soils, 250–400 m altitude, average yields 33 hl/ha, 40% organic, minimum 1 year ageing.

16:45 Terrasses du Larzac – AOC since 2014, reds only, high diurnal range (20°C), ripe fruit and acidity.

17:30 Pic Saint-Loup – most easterly, continental influence, Syrah ≥50%, red & rosé only, rainfall ~1,000 mm.

18:15 Picpoul de Pinet – white only, Picpoul Blanc, coastal vineyards, dry, medium-bodied, medium+ acidity, lemon and floral notes.

19:15 Roussillon overview – 21,000 ha, Pyrenees influence, 70% AOC, 25% Vin Doux Naturel, climate Mediterranean, rainfall 500–600 mm.

20:00 Key grape varieties – Grenache Noir, Syrah, Carignan, Mourvèdre, Muscat (fortified & whites).

20:45 Roussillon AOCs – Côtes du Roussillon (largest, red/white/rosé), Côtes du Roussillon Villages (red, max yields, carbonic maceration), Collioure (coastal terraces, red & white, low yields), IGP Côtes Catalanes (premium reds and whites).

22:30 Max yields & blending rules for red, white, and rosé – practical numbers for Diploma revision.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

You can buy the book at Académie du Vin Library for £20 - but use the code EATSLEEP15 for 15% off any of the books on the site.

This episode is sponsored by Zeno: Alcohol Liberated Wines (Non Alcoholic Producer of the Year 2025 with the International London Wine Competition) The wine mentioned is the Zeno Alcohol-Liberated Sparkling £12.50 from Waitrose and Waitrose Cellar.

Follow Zeno on Instagram @drinkzeno.

02:15 Fun fact of the episode: why some grapes do better in heat that others

06:25 Andrew Neathers introduces himself discussing his background as a wine critic and an environmentalist

08:44 Jane Masters’ background and her long-standing focus on sustainability in the wine industry.

13:00 Synthetic fertilisers and agrochemicals - why they became widespread and their long-term impact on vineyards and ecosystems.

20:50 Organic farming and its limitations - the use of copper and sulphur in humid climates.

26:41 Predator insects in vineyards - replacing chemical treatments with natural solutions.

27:44 The use of drones in viticulture and precision farming.

28:26 Are new technologies accessible to small and medium-sized producers?

29:44 Inside the winery: water, electricity and energy use as major sustainability challenges.

34:46 Sustainability across the wider drinks industry - what meaningful progress really looks like.

36:59 The environmental cost of traditional glass wine bottles.

43:26 Bottle colour, recyclability and consumer perception.

45:30 The human side of sustainability - vineyard and winery workers.

50:59 What Jane Masters and Andrew Neather hope readers will take away from Rooted in Change.

52:51 Use code EATSLEEP15 for 15% of the book Rooted in Change: The Stories Behind Sustainable Wine.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

03:32 Laura’s scientific background - from microbiology and Yale to winemaking.

04:52 Choosing wine as a career: the moment wine replaced medicine.

06:32 Early lessons from Schramsberg and Nickel & Nickel - teamwork, terroir and patience.

11:55 How Silver Oak has evolved over the years - sustainability, innovation and precision.

14:18 Precision viticulture explained: data, technology and giving each vine exactly what it needs.

15:45 Water management at Silver Oak - recycling systems and the famous purple hoses.

17:55 Owning their own cooperage - why it’s so rare and why it matters.

18:56 How a tree is chosen to become a wine barrel - straight trunks, diameter and quality.

20:56 Missouri oak vs French oak - grain, flavour profile and why Missouri stands out.

24:39 Seasoning vs toasting - what they really mean and why they’re not the same thing.

28:16 Choosing oak for flavour and texture - matching seasoning and toast to the wine style.

32:24 How far can you push oak? Experimentation, blind tastings and finding the limit.

33:43 Janina’s tasting notes: Alexander Valley vs Napa Valley Cabernets.

35:04 Tasting comparison: Silver Oak Alexander Valley vs Napa Valley Cabernet - fruit profile, structure, oak and power.

38:19 Inside Silver Oak’s toasting area - fire pits, slow toasting and craftsmanship.

40:02 Roasted marshmallow and caramel - the aromas of toasted barrels.

42:30 How much does a barrel cost and how long does it take to make one?

45:13 Another key difference between American and French oak - sustainability and efficiency.

46:20 Climatic differences between Alexander Valley and Napa Valley.

49:01 Where to buy the wines in the UK  current vintages and pricing at The Wine Treasury £132 Alexander Valley Cabernet 2020 and £240 Napa Valley Cabernet 2020

50:28 Being a woman in wine - leadership, mentorship and cultural change.

52:44 A joyful harvest memory - costumes, sparkles and a true “glitter moment.”

54:39 American oak in one sentence.

55:16 Napa or Alexander Valley - where is the magic right now?

56:03 Toast levels: light, medium or heavy?

56:19 Cabernet pairing - steak or dark chocolate?

56:53 One wine region everyone should visit next.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next year – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

02:19 From jazz musician to sparkling wine specialist - Tom’s unexpected journey.

03:55 Is another English Wine Report coming? Janina asks about future editions.

04:34 Behind the scenes of tasting and writing large regional reports - workload, scale and logistics.

05:57 Comparing vineyard size: hectares planted in England vs Champagne.

07:20 “How big is Champagne?” — breaking down vineyard numbers and grower totals.

09:40 Janina asks whether England is close to defining its own “grand cru” sites; Tom responds on regional potential.

12:42 Comparing English regions: southeast vs southwest, the north, and Wales - how climate shapes categories.

15:41 How climate change is affecting Champagne and England differently - and why “warmer” doesn’t always mean “easier.”

18:29 Maritime vs continental climates - should England and Champagne really be compared?

24:09 Janina asks about Voltis, the first hybrid grape permitted in a French appellation.

25:48 Tom’s experience with lost or forgotten Champagne varieties (Arbanne, Petit Meslier).

31:33 Land prices: cost of vineyard land in Champagne vs England - and why experimentation is easier in the UK.

34:19 Younger Champagne producers embracing Meunier and the rise of single-varietal Meunier wines.

38:27 How much chalk does Champagne actually have? And why England’s soil diversity could be an advantage.

41:26 Is soil diversity a benefit or a complication for England’s future?

44:04 Yields: England vs Champagne - narrowing gaps and the impact of controlled limits.

45:02 What yields Champagne would have without regulatory controls.

47:33 England’s upward trend in yields and how hobby vineyards distort averages.

49:27 Pruning systems: Champagne’s strict rules vs England’s flexibility - should England adopt more structure?

51:37 Sustainability and biodynamics: how both regions are adapting under environmental pressure.

55:34 Agro-tourism in England and Champagne

57:58 Tom’s final recommendations and key takeaways for sparkling wine lovers.

📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and listed among the top UK wine podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Listed #22 on Drinks Retailing’s 2025 Most Influential People in Drinks

02:19 Marimar’s cookbooks and why they’re perfect for Christmas gifting.

02:55 Torres’ ancestral grape recovery project — 139 sites, micro-vinifications and standout varieties like Forcada.

04:52 Christina’s first harvest at DeLoach - the shock, the workload, and what she learned.

05:30 Childhood memories of wanting to join the family winery.

06:55 Five generations of Torres winemaking since 1870.

08:14 How Christina and Marimar work together and manage the mother-daughter dynamic.

11:00 Marimar’s pioneering story: emigrating from Franco-era Spain and founding a winery in California.

13:22 What makes Russian River Valley unique: fog, Pacific influence, cool climate.

15:12 Whether Green Valley is the coolest AVA in Sonoma.

16:41 Christina’s years in the UK at John E. Fells and how they shaped her career.

19:40 Differences in leadership style between mother and daughter.

21:26 Early plantings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir at Marimar Estate.

23:04 Albariño in Sonoma - similarities and differences compared to Galicia.

24:27 Godello in Russian River: aromatics, texture, concrete eggs and fan favourite status.

27:04 The first (too cold) Albariño attempt in Sonoma Coast.

28:18 Why Pinot Noir remains their flagship grape.

29:43 The Christina Pinot Noir: barrel selection, extra ageing, structure and depth.

31:19 Janina’s tasting notes - a romantic, perfumed, seductive Pinot.

33:12 Where to buy the wines in the UK (Vinum £2019 £65.20).

34:00 The estate dogs and their enthusiastic greetings.

35:09 Winery vs. house - the masía architecture and events at Marimar’s home.

36:03 The Torres legacy: sustainability and ancestral grape recovery.

37:58 The suitcase-cuttings story and the visit from the inspector.

38:28 Janina reflects on why Marimar is such an inspirational figure.

41:11 Pinot Noir clones: 115, 667, 777 and Pommard.

42:17 What makes Pommard so balanced and expressive.

43:52 A vineyard surprise: the tiny Mencía trial block.

45:17 Fun story - six-year-old Christina baking cookies for the future King of Spain.

To follow Marimar Estate on Instagram CLICK HERE and Christina Torres CLICK HERE

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

[01:37] The Christmas Pairing Game begins - smoked salmon, prawn cocktail, Stilton, roast turkey, roast beef, nut roast, mince pies, sticky toffee pudding and panettone - what are the perfect wine pairings? 

[21:45] Duncan shares his background, how The Wee Vinoteca started, which recently won Wine Club of the Year from IWC.

[24:26] Introducing the Christmas Wine Box - six wines designed to cover the entire holiday table with versatility and balance.

[24:48] Black Chalk Classic Cuvée – English Sparkling Wine (Hampshire, UK) Duncan explains chalk soils, vintage differences, and why English sparkling has become a staple for holiday starters, seafood and celebrations.

[29:04] Visiting English vineyards - where to go. 

[31:35] Muses Estates, Assyrtiko (mainland Greece) A structured, saline white that handles seafood, richer starters and vegetable dishes. Duncan compares mainland Assyrtiko with Santorini, discussing old vines, wild ferments and gastronomy pairings.

[37:45] The conversation widens to Greek grapes and styles – Assyrtiko, Xinomavro, Savatiano, Roditis and today’s fresher, high-quality Retsina – with advice on discovering them by the glass or in tastings.

[39:20] Brookdale, Old Vine Chenin Blanc (Paarl, South Africa) Why Chenin shines at Christmas: texture, generosity, acidity and ageing potential. References to producers like Lismore and stylistic comparisons to white Burgundy.

[43:40] Roccafiore, Sangiovese (Umbria, Italy) Fresh Italian red ideal for antipasti, turkey and Boxing Day dishes. Duncan highlights its balance and easy versatility and contrasts Sangiovese from this inland region with Chianti and explaining how Umbrian Sangiovese offers softer tannins and great value. And discussing Sagrantino grape.

[47:51] Hey Diddle, Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon (Claire Valley, Australia)

Discussing the Claire Valley, and what is happening in this region, alongside practical tips on opening bottles sealed with wax.

[51:54] Diatominist, Pedro Ximénez (Jerez, Spain)

Explaining how PX sits within the broader (and sometimes confusing) Sherry styles and why this luscious, nutty, treacle-like dessert wine blows people’s minds at Christmas fairs.

[57:17] Duncan and Janina note that PX is usually perfect in small pours, talk about visiting Montilla-Moriles near Córdoba, and tempt listeners with the idea of tapas-hopping through a city that boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

[57:46] Asked which wine he always opens at Christmas that isn’t necessarily in the box, Duncan admits it’s English fizz – a sparkling wine he and his wife love and a non-negotiable part of their celebrations.

[58:26] To visit The Wee Vinoteca, visit their site HERE and you can purchase The Staff Christmas Picks Case CLICK HERE.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

 📚 Find Natasha’s book: The Wines of Beaujolais (Academie du Vin) 💸 Use code EATSLEEP15 for 15% off

[00:32] Beaujolais Nouveau Day recap and shifting the focus to the deeper complexity of the region. [03:22] Natasha’s journey into wine, building a writing career, and the challenge of becoming a Master of Wine. [08:39] Why Beaujolais? Natasha on the region’s history, struggles after the Nouveau boom, and its current revival. [10:09] The biggest misconception: Beaujolais reduced to simple, fruity Nouveau. [11:51] 300+ soil types in a compact area - and how geology, altitude, and exposure shape wine style. [15:22] Winemaking styles in Beaujolais: Burgundian, semi-carbonic, full carbonic, and thermovinification - and why “bubblegum” is not from carbonic maceration. [19:30] Choosing a Beaujolais by style: pink granite (fine, perfumed, red-fruited) vs. diorite (darker, richer, more structured). [22:57] Chiroubles: high altitude, 100% pink granite, floral, herbal, with a wild crunchy freshness. [24:37] Morgon & Moulin-à-Vent: the opposite profile - powerful, age-worthy, and sometimes reminiscent of Pinot Noir, Syrah or even Nebbiolo. [28:31] Old vines and pre-phylloxera parcels - why Beaujolais is a treasure trove of historic vineyards. [39:20] Rising stars and undervalued areas: Beaujolais Villages and exciting producers such as Domaine Les Garçons, and Domaine de la Grosse Pierre (Pauline Passot). [48:10] Closing anecdote: a 1932 auction story that turned a missed opportunity into extraordinary luck.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

Along the way, Tom shares tips for making wine approachable (and hilarious), highlights his favorite Bordeaux wines and “Super Seconds,” and reminds us that enjoying a bottle should be full of joy, stories, and a little mischief.

 [01:42] Wine fact of the episode — the history behind the 1855 Bordeaux Classification and how it still shapes prestige and pricing today.

[05:05] Tom shares how his viral “Wine Marathon” began: tasting a different wine every mile, his son’s support, and the unexpected global response that followed.

[08:36] From chaos to community - how a family experiment turned into a worldwide audience and new passion for wine communication.

[11:17] The art of blind tasting - from marathon guesses to what he learned about focus, humility, and having fun with wine.

[13:03] Janina and Tom discuss Thirsty and how his stories highlight the humour, generosity, and humanity of the wine trade.

[15:33] Why blind tasting should be playful - ideas for home tastings, favourite tricky grapes like Nerello Mascalese and Baga, and the concept of “Wine Sports Day.”

[21:30] Turning to Bordeaux — Tom’s reflections on 2005 vintages, learning from Robert Parker, and how palate trends shaped global styles.

[25:23] Bordeaux today: en primeur uncertainty, Château Latour’s exit from the system, and why Tom says wine should be enjoyed, not invested in.

[28:27] Blind tasting first growths versus super seconds - and how labels, price, and reputation influence what we think we taste.

[31:03] Highlights on Château Montrose, Léoville Las Cases, and La Mission Haut-Brion - some of the ‘Super-Seconds’.

[33:41] From Bordeaux to Burgundy - discussing Chablis, its fossils, minerality, and that unforgettable sense of “tasting the sea.”

[37:37] Janina and Tom reflect on how palates evolve - from bold New World wines to subtle Old World elegance.

[40:12] Beaujolais Nouveau nostalgia — London’s 1980s celebrations, and Tom’s upcoming Beaujolais Party at Sophie’s in Piccadilly.

[44:13] Tom’s early years: studying at Plumpton College, researching English wine in the ’90s, and predicting the rise of world-class English sparkling.

[47:15] Wrapping up with Battle of the Grapes: Tom picks his favourite grape varieties

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

📚 Find out more about Tom Gilbey: tomgilbeywine

 📖 Get his book Thirsty: Available on Amazon UK

 🍷 Tickets for the Beaujolais Nouveau Party: Sophie's Steakhouse, Piccadilly

Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

Music Used in Podcast from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/stan-town/groove-sauce

License code: HX8TGN6XM1D6LQWX

From wandering the tiled streets of Porto and exploring the buzzing Mercado do Bolhão, to taking the scenic train to Pinhão, this episode is your insider guide to soaking up the Douro at its very best.

Shownotes

02:00 Douro – the first demarcated and regulated wine region in the worlds and it’s they history

04:00 Why visit Porto

5:00 Where to day in Porto

05:30 Mercado do Bolhão

06:00 Travelling from airport on the metro

06:30 Day 1 Itinerary – River walks and a visit to Grahams Port Lodge

08:30 The importance of Coopers to repair the oak casks and what happens to the wine in barrels and casks

9:00 The Style of Tawny port and the new 80 year old category

11:45 The different style of Tawny and ageing requirements

14:30 The ten first families of wine starting with The Symington Family

15:30 Difference in temperature and rainfall from Porto, the Cima Corgo (The heart of Douro) and the Douro Superior

17:00 Antinori from Tuscany

17:30 Baron Philippe de Rothchild - Chateau Mouton Rothchild

18:00 Familia Torres, based in Catalonia, Spain

18:30 E & J Gallo Winery, California

18:50 Joseph Drouhin, Burgundy

19:10 Famille Perrin, Rhône

19:30 Jackson Family Wines, California

20:00 Tenuta San Guido, Italy

20:15 Vega Sicilia, Spain  

21:00 Eating at Matriarca in Porto

23:30] Day 2 Itineray - Take the train to Pinhão, Douro (Cima Corgo) from São Bento railway station (another MUST see in Porto)

24:30 The Solcalcos (Terraces) that gave Douro it’s UNESCO World Heritage status.

25:00 The more modern Patamares

25:30 Soil erosion in the Douro and now laser guided technology to help

27:00] Vinha ao alto for the less steep slopes

27:30 Eat and stay at The Vintage House, Pinhão

29:30 Stay at The Manor House, Celeirós and visit Quinta do Portal next door

31:00 Quinta da Roêda - Croft Port

33:00 Quinta do Bonfim

33:30 Day 3 Itinerary – Enjoy the Old Town of Porto

35:00 Day 4 Itinerary – Taylors Port Lodge

37:45 The Yeatman Hotel

39:30 The WOW museum

43:00 Tasting at The Wine School including Azores Wine Company Terrantez do Pico

43:30 Quanta Terra, Phenomena Rose

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

Together, they unpack the science behind wine aromas, tasting faults, and why perception is as much about learning as it is about the senses.

[00:26] Janina introduces her guest, Sietze Wijma, recognised at the 67 Pall Mall Global Communicator Awards for his work blending sensory science and wine education.

[01:49] Quick wine fact — how saliva enzymes alter sweetness and release fruity aromas in Sauvignon Blanc. Based on info from The Cynic’s Guide to Wine by Sunny Hodge (Guest on Ep 232)

[03:41] Sietze explains The Art of Tasting and how adding isolated flavour compounds helps students identify key aromas.

[04:31] How flavour molecules like those in green bell peppers naturally occur in wine.

[05:28] Using “spiked” neutral wines as a training tool before tasting commercial wines.

[06:19] Butter, vanilla, and yogurt notes — breaking down malolactic fermentation, oak ageing, and lees stirring.

[08:00] How culture shapes perception: diacetyl (buttery aroma) described as baklava in Turkey or dahi in India.

[09:36] Sietze’s journey from studying flavour chemistry in beer to founding his own wine-focused aroma lab in the UK.

[11:03] The “bird-watching” analogy — tasting is about recognition, not sensitivity; anyone can train their palate.

[12:57] Identifying key wine aroma families — pyrazines, TDN, and rotundone — and how they appear in specific grape varieties.

[13:55] Pyrazines and their link to green bell pepper notes in Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Carménère.

[15:10] TDN and the petrol character in Riesling — how sunlight and bottle age intensify the aroma.

[17:04] Rotundone and the black-pepper signature of cool-climate Syrah and white-pepper notes of Grüner Veltliner.

[20:04] How different cultures interpret the same aroma — ginseng and pyrazines in Chinese Cabernet Sauvignon.

[21:27] The “ladybug taint” — an uncommon wine fault caused by crushed beetles releasing pyrazine compounds.

[23:32] Common wine faults explained: cork taint (TCA), reduction, light strike, oxidation, and brettanomyces.

[28:09] Story time — Sietze recalls mistaking oxidation for an open-too-long bottle in Austria.

[30:14] Brettanomyces and the fine line between savoury complexity and spoilage.

[32:31] The Château de Beaucastel example — when Brett becomes part of terroir and debate.

[33:13] Tasting myths: why aromas like “green bell pepper” don’t mean actual allergens in wine.

[34:37] How to improve blind tasting skills at home using aroma kits and DIY spiked wines.

[36:28] Why tasting side-by-side is key to better identification and learning.

[37:55] The “mouseiness” fault — why some aromas appear only after tasting due to pH and acidity.

[42:46] Helen Keller’s quote on scent and memory — a poetic close to a science-rich episode.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next week – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

Her guest is Fabio Zenato, president of the Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC, who brings three generations of family knowledge and a deep passion for the local Turbiana grape.

Together, they explore the true identity of Turbiana, the unique glacial soils of the region, and why Lugana wines can age far beyond expectations. Expect insights into clonal selection, microclimate, and terroir - all wrapped in stories of tradition, elegance, and discovery.

Shownotes

[01:53] Third-generation vintner Fabio Zenato reflects on childhood memories that shaped his connection to the vineyards of Lugana.

[02:28] Family heritage and early experiences that inspired a lifelong dedication to the land and its vines.

[04:46] Clarifying the genetic confusion surrounding the Turbiana grape and its historical misidentification.

[04:57] Understanding the DNA difference between Turbiana, Verdicchio, and Trebbiano di Soave.

[09:18] Mutation or clone — exploring how proximity to Soave influenced Turbiana’s evolution.

[10:41] Labeling inconsistencies and the importance of protecting the Turbiana name.

[12:04] Tasting Tommasi Le Fornaci  2024 (£19.99 Cambridge Wine Merchants) and what to expect from a fresh, mineral-driven Lugana wine.

[14:40] Locating Lugana: the southern shores of Lake Garda, between Lombardy and Veneto.

[19:27] The influence of Lake Garda’s breezes and surrounding topography on vineyard climate.

[20:33] The role of elevation - from 60 to 100 meters - and how slight altitude differences affect freshness and balance.

[22:02] Exploring Monte Lupo 2015 from Cobue and understanding why Turbiana has remarkable aging potential.

[24:47] How Lugana wines maintain acidity and evolve with nutty, floral, and mineral complexity over time.

[27:40] Introducing La Rifra Riserva 2022 - structure, richness, and longevity in the glass. £24.99 D Vino Wines

[28:53] Defining what makes a Lugana Riserva: minimum aging, depth, and stylistic differences.

[32:53] The story behind Benedictus 2023 from Le Morette — the philosophy and inspiration behind its name. £22 The Wine Rack

[34:41] Winemaking approach: lees aging, oak influence, and the balance between richness and minerality.

[38:05] Food pairing ideas — from seafood to risotto, and how Lugana’s texture makes it versatile.

[40:05] Tasting Feliciana 'Serce' Riserva 2022 — €27.95 Woodberrys.ie

[40:36] Travel tips: flying into Verona for the easiest route to Lugana and Lake Garda.

[42:59] Must-try local dishes and regional specialties to pair with Turbiana wines.

[45:28] A new generation of winemakers bringing innovation through sparkling and sweet styles.

[46:50] Corte Sermana Duerive 2023 — bright, delicate, and grown by the lake, where the vines feel the breeze off Garda’s shores.

[49:07] The perfect Lugana moment — sunshine, lake views, and a chilled glass of Turbiana.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST has been featured in Decanter Magazine, Radio Times, and named by Feedspot as one of the Top UK Wine Podcasts.

RECOGNITION:

– Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025)

– Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025)

– Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

From rolling down hills at Opus One to uncovering the gold-rush roots of California’s old vines, this episode celebrates authenticity, creativity, and the deep sense of place that defines these lesser-known wine regions. Expect laughter, discovery, and plenty of Zinfandel talk along the way.

[03:59] How Paige went from business school in Michigan to discovering wine through Wine for Dummies and Wine Folly. [05:27] The 18 noble grape varieties as a framework for understanding global wine styles. [06:55] Tasting across those grapes as an education in structure, aroma, and texture — from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. [07:58] Generational shifts in wine habits and how younger drinkers embrace experimentation and design. [10:21] Rolling down a hill at Opus One and the reminder that wine should always stay fun. [12:51] Overview of Lodi, Murphy’s, and Amador — three off-the-beaten-path regions defined by old vines and history. [17:28] Lodi’s scale, production diversity, and role as a powerhouse for California wine. [18:27] Murphy’s as a Gold Rush town turned boutique wine destination full of charm and local flavor. [19:51] Key contrasts between Murphy’s and Lodi in landscape, culture, and experience. [20:28] European and Italian immigrant roots that shaped Zinfandel, Sangiovese, and the region’s identity. [21:51] California’s oldest documented Zinfandel vineyard from 1869 and how volcanic and sandy soils preserved it. [23:30] Distinct terrains — Lodi’s flat vineyards versus the rolling, oak-covered hills of Murphy’s and Amador. [24:29] The dramatic beauty of Amador with Sierra Nevada peaks and Tahoe in the distance. [25:16] Zinfandel defined: bold fruit, warm spice, richness, and soft tannins. [27:59] The accidental invention of White Zinfandel at Sutter Home and Napa’s last free tasting rooms. [29:15] Wine tasting costs in Napa versus the approachable, grassroots experiences in Lodi and Murphy’s. [30:26] Dining highlight: Taste in Amador, a women-led fine dining spot with local flair. [31:10] Must-visit wineries including Ironstone, Andis, Casino Mine, Bokisch, and Michael David. [32:13] Lodi’s Wine & Chocolate Weekend featuring creative pairings like chocolate-covered grasshoppers. [33:58] SaveTheOld.com and the movement to protect California’s 100-year-old vineyards. [37:35] The connection between California Zinfandel and Italy’s Primitivo. [38:17] Red wine dominance across the regions with a few standout whites. [39:22] A memorable tasting at Memento Mori in Napa and the philosophy behind “remember we must die.” [42:02] Choosing Chardonnay as the one grape to drink for life. [42:24] Dream dinner guest: Jared Way of My Chemical Romance. [43:06] The most underrated U.S. wine region: Walla Walla, Washington. [44:11] Closing thoughts — pour yourself an old vine Zinfandel and start planning your next California wine trip.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST has been featured in Decanter Magazine, Radio Times, and named by Feedspot as one of the Top UK Wine Podcasts.

RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

Together, Janina and Pedro dig deep — quite literally — into the role of soil, minerality, and terroir expression in winemaking. From limestone and granite to volcanic ash and clay, Pedro explains which grapes grow best in each soil type. They also explore Itata, Chile, one of South America’s oldest and most under-the-radar regions, and discuss Pedro’s beautiful 90-year-old-vine Cinsault, a wine that captures the soul of granite and the spirit of Burgundy. Expect scientific insight, poetic reflection, and a whole lot of passion for what lies beneath our vines.

[00:32] – Meet Dr. Terroir: Pedro Parra, the man behind 50,000 soil pits and a global reputation for understanding what lies beneath our vineyards.

[04:15] – What terroir truly means: why the connection between soil, roots, and weather defines a wine’s identity.

[04:24] – What many winemakers misunderstand when they focus on the cellar instead of the vineyard.

[11:31] – The perfect soil for Pinot Noir: how limestone delivers elegance, acidity, and finesse.

[11:44] – Granite explained: why it produces wines with brightness, tension, and linearity.

[14:22] – The best grape for granite soils? Pedro’s surprising answer — and the region that redefines Grenache.

[16:32] – The truth about clay: good vs. bad clay, and why it can either nourish or suffocate the vine.

[22:39] – What makes schist so complex and unpredictable in the vineyard.

[23:48] – The grape varieties that thrive on schist — from the Douro to Côte-Rôtie.

[24:57] – Volcanic soils: beauty, danger, and why only 10 % of volcanic terroirs produce great wine.

[28:46] – Pedro’s most moving wine experiences and what he looks for in true terroir transparency.

[31:12] – How he fell in love with Itata, Chile — a forgotten land of old bush vines and soulful energy.

[39:01] – What makes his 90-year-old-vine Trance Cinsault 2022 (£40 Hic Wine Merchants)  so unique: granite soils, freshness, and natural elegance.

[40:59] – “Being so good but the wines were so bad”: Pedro’s candid story of unlearning Burgundy winemaking.

[43:46] – From concentration to “illusion”: discovering balance through gentle, cool fermentations.

[45:15] – Whole-cluster fermentation — when it works, when it doesn’t, and why humidity is the key.

[47:37] – Oak, concrete, and steel: how the choice of vessel completely changes a wine’s texture.

[50:47] – Too many beautiful labels, not enough good wine — Pedro on the crisis of modern winemaking.

[51:48] – The one wine that most moved Pedro — and his final thoughts on terroir and emotion.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES, AND NAMED BY FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE PODCAST.

RECOGNITION: – FINALIST, 67 PALL MALL AWARD FOR BEST GLOBAL WINE COMMUNICATOR IN AUDIO (2025) – SHORTLISTED, IWSC EMERGING TALENT IN WINE COMMUNICATION (2025) – RANKED #18 IN 2024 AND #22 IN 2025 ON DRINKS RETAILING’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN DRINKS LIST

Together they dive into the fascinating world of Champagne vs. Crémant – uncovering why Champagne’s history and terroir make it unique, what the grower Champagne movement means for drinkers, and how eight French regions (plus Luxembourg) produce high-quality Crémant that can rival Champagne at a fraction of the price. Expect insights into blind tasting challenges, producer styles, and practical tips for studying sparkling wine.

You’ll also discover:

[02:26] – Luxembourg’s Crémant: spotlight on Bernard-Massard, the country’s leading producer

[04:43] – How Cokie approaches studying wine and structuring learning. 

[05:26] – The most difficult part of passing the Advanced Sommelier exam. 

[09:22] – How long it really takes to become a Master Sommelier and Master of Wine. 

[11:35] – The “craziest” decision Cokie has considered: attempting both titles simultaneously. 

[14:11] – What Champagne truly means to her – and how a visit to Roman-dug caves in Reims changed her perspective forever.  

[15:44] – Visiting Champagne houses like Taittinger and Ruinart: history carved into chalk cellars. [21:41] – The rise of grower Champagne: unique stories, pros and cons versus the grandes marques. 

[24:14] – Understanding Champagne bottle labelling (RM vs NM codes). 

[27:16] – Why Champagne commands higher prices – and when it’s worth it. 

[30:07] – Breaking down Crémant: eight French regions and their grape varieties, terroirs, and styles. 

[34:00] – Spotlight on Savoie and the Altesse grape: alpine freshness and minerality. 

[37:02] – Carcassonne and Limoux: tasting history in the birthplace of sparkling wine. 

[38:45] – The challenge of lining up Crémants in comparative tastings – and why producer style matters as much as region. 

[42:28] – The purpose of the Crémant appellation and how to use it as a reliable Champagne alternative. 

[44:22] – Study tips for identifying sparkling wines in blind tastings.  

[46:53] – Making wine inclusive: pronunciation, accessibility, and why wine should be for everyone.

Follow Cokie on her Crazy wine journey HERE.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES, AND NAMED BY FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE PODCAST.

RECOGNITION: – FINALIST, 67 PALL MALL AWARD FOR BEST GLOBAL WINE COMMUNICATOR IN AUDIO (2025) – SHORTLISTED, IWSC EMERGING TALENT IN WINE COMMUNICATION (2025) – RANKED #18 IN 2024 AND #22 IN 2025 ON DRINKS RETAILING’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN DRINKS LIST

This episode dives deep into how low-intervention vs. natural wine is defined, what mouse taint and Brettanomyces really mean for your glass, and why the future of wine chat might balance both the romance of terroir and the hard facts of winemaking. Expect myth-busting, geeky insights, and plenty of food for thought on how wine is grown, made, and enjoyed.

If you’ve ever wondered what truly changes your wine beyond the grape – from organic regulations in the EU vs. USA, to terpenes, esters, and thiols – this is an episode that will transform the way you understand every sip.

A quick shout out to this episode’s lovely sponsor Viavinum. I’ve got a special discount code that could earn up 5 or even 8% off your wine tour. Find details at the bottom.*

You’ll also discover:

[05:51] – Why Sunny wrote The Cynic’s Guide to Wine: moving beyond storytelling to answer the “whys” and “whats” of wine through science and real understanding.

[09:04] – Diogenes the Dog: The Wine Bar in Elephant and Castle, London.

[10:04] – Three places to expand your map: Texas (Malbec) from Messina Hof; Weightstone WE White No.4 from Taiwan; an organic project in Eastern Thrace, Turkey with Xavier Vignon.

[12:27] – Hybrids/PIWI: bred for heat/humidity resilience to reduce spraying.

[14:55] – Janina links her previous episode on Turkish wine for deeper context.

[16:38] – The philosophy behind Aspen & Meursault: team training and a dedicated low-intervention concept.

[18:15] – Low-intervention vs natural: how to define these wine terms with no legal definitions.

[21:43] – Sulphur dioxide, alcohol and histamines: why hangovers aren’t usually caused by sulphur dioxide — and when histamines might matter.

[27:57] – Organic in Europe vs America: EU allows wines with reduced sulphur dioxide; US organic wine forbids added sulphur dioxide — changing how wines taste and age.

[34:32] – Soil really matters: mycorrhizal “underground internet,” rootstocks, and how they nudge ripening, acidity, and vigor.

[36:52] – From cellar to consumer: why better definitions and transparency help real-world wine choices.

[42:11] – What are thiols? Setting up the chemistry behind those tropical fruit notes.

[45:30] – Feeding vines: getting nitrogen without synthetic fertilisers (and a detour through Fritz Haber’s legacy).

[47:32] – Terpenes & esters: aroma families and where they come from

[52:26] – Mouse taint: why it’s more common in low-intervention wines and how it shows up.

[56:15] – Brettanomyces: fault or character? Unpacking the sweaty-horse debate.

[57:59] – What’s next for Sunny? (Spoiler: more geeky wine chat)

[60:04] – How to contact Sunny and where to buy The Cynic's Guide to Wine – Academie Du Vin Library (Don’t forget to use code EATSLEEP15 for 15% of this book and all others on the site)

*VIAVINUM WINE TOURS:

If you’re dreaming of a wine-filled escape to Italy, I’ve got something special for you.

Book a customized wine tour of more than 6 days / 5 nights through my trusted travel partners and use my code EATSLEEPWINE to unlock an exclusive discount:

• 5% off for private groups of 2 to 5 people
• 8% off for groups of 6 or more

Right now, the full range of private tours isn’t live on the website as they’re being refreshed for the new season — but if you're ready to plan something unforgettable, this is the perfect time to design your own bespoke wine adventure.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you! 🥂

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES, AND NAMED BY FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE PODCAST.

RECOGNITION: – FINALIST, 67 PALL MALL AWARD FOR BEST GLOBAL WINE COMMUNICATOR IN AUDIO (2025) – SHORTLISTED, IWSC EMERGING TALENT IN WINE COMMUNICATION (2025) – RANKED #18 IN 2024 AND #22 IN 2025 ON DRINKS RETAILING’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN DRINKS LIST

Aidy brings his signature energy and honesty to this conversation, sharing his path into wine and the moments that shaped his mission. From supermarket favourites and wine hacks to wineries doing amazing work in inclusion – this episode is heartfelt, informative and a perfect way to close the season.

You’ll also discover:

[03:32] – Aidy’s first step into the drinks world (in a crumpled suit and a glass of Napa Cabernet!) [06:26] – Link back to Episode 46 and his love for California wine [07:46] – How Tourette’s, ADHD and being openly gay shaped his career in wine [14:45] – Why good intentions and asking questions are key to progress [17:28] – The most under the radar wine region: Patagonia, Argentina [21:00] – Bodega Otronia and its icy anti-frost system and Bodega Chacra and their Pinot and Chardonnays [22:39] – Beginner-friendly supermarket recommendation: Diablo Dark Red £9 with nectar Sainsburys [24:27] – How to expand your palate with Kadette Cape blend by Kanonkop (South Africa) £13.50 Sainsburys [26:22] – The importance of transparency on winery websites [29:06] – Favourite hot weather wine: white wines from Plaimont, Southwest France [30:24] – Wine hack: always pack a corkscrew in your toiletries bag [31:11] – What is Drinklusive and how it empowers new voices in wine [39:17] – Advice for wineries wanting to be more inclusive [43:57] – Janina’s shoutout to Michel Chapoutier (First producer to put Braille on labels) and tasting their Saint-Péray £20 mix 6 Majestic [44:47] – Champagne Telmont, sustainability and inclusivity focus [49:17] – Final reflections: what Aidy has learned and what still needs to change

Follow Aidy on Instagram

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time – cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

They discuss how education—through tasting, theory, and structured approaches—empowers people to understand and enjoy wine, regardless of their background or budget.

Along the way, you’ll learn why blind tasting is such a powerful tool for wine education, how cultural context shapes the way we perceive aromas, and why exploring lesser-known grapes like Fetească Regală or Xinomavro can offer incredible value. Alex also reflects on the emotional connection we form with wine through meaningful moments, and how staying curious—and truly listening—can help build a more inclusive and diverse industry.

This inspiring conversation will leave you rethinking what wine education really means—and who it’s for.

Episode Guide (Chapters) [02:21] – How Alex carved out his role at Wine & Spirit Education Trust [03:44] – What is the WSET and what does it stand for? [04:33] – Who are WSET courses for? [05:43] – Why blind tasting matters [09:35] – How to build your aroma memory [12:48] – Tasting the unexpected: wines off the beaten path [15:01] – Exploring regions beyond Bordeaux, into the South West of France [19:16] – How WSET promotes accessibility and inclusion [23:46] – WSET’s global social impact [27:42] – What’s next for WSET’s social initiatives? [32:31] – How wine education can save you money [34:24] – Discover: Fetească Regală and Fetească albă [36:15] – Alex’s favourite part of teaching [38:31] – Wine recommendation: meaningful moments [40:45] – What can we all do to make the industry better?

If you are wanting to explore more the qualifications available at the WSET, find all details on their website: https://www.wsetglobal.com/

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time – cheers to you! THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Janina also tastes Carmen’s UK-exclusive Catoria red blend, available through Naked Wines for just £14.99, and reads a heartfelt note Carmen wrote to the wine club’s “angels.” But Carmen’s impact goes far beyond wine—she’s also the founder of the Carmen Stevens Foundation, which has served over 48 million school meals to children in need.

Tune in for inspiration, resilience, and a celebration of what wine can do for communities.

Episode Guide (Chapters)

[03:35] – Becoming South Africa’s first Black female winemaker and the strength needed, and challenges faced

[20:24] – Who is Carmen Stevens the winemaker? Exploring small-batch blending through Sauvignon Blanc and the unique expressions of different vineyard parcels.

[25:38] – Discovering Carménère as a flagship grape

[30:04] – South African vs Chilean Carménère

[34:13] – Janina tastes the UK-exclusive red blend Catoria 2022

[36:19] – Great value: £14.99 through Naked Wines

[37:38] – A heartfelt message to the Naked Wines Angels

[41:18] – The story behind the Carmen Stevens Foundation

[46:07] – How the wine industry can give back

[47:37] – Mentoring and choosing young talent

[51:46] – The dream of owning vineyards in Stellenbosch

[52:58] – Dreams for the next 10 years

[55:33] – Where to find Carmen’s wines internationally

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time - cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Amber dives into the story of how the Staglin family built their estate with a clear sense of purpose, from reclaiming historic vines to pioneering sustainability and championing inclusivity in the wine industry. They explore what makes the Rutherford Bench so special, how the “Rutherford dust” shapes the character of their wines, and the winemaking philosophy behind their elegant, age-worthy style.

They also taste the Salus Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine with a difference: 100% of its profits are donated to brain health research through the family’s foundation One Mind. Expect mocha-dusted tannins, autumnal aromas, and a full-bodied texture that feels featherlight — a wine Janina calls “plush, polished and profoundly humane.”

If you’ve ever wondered why Napa Cabernet is worth the price, or how wine can be a true force for good, this episode is for you.

Pour yourself a glass and enjoy.

 [02:34] – The history of Staglin Family Vineyard

[04:37] – What makes the Rutherford Bench so unique [06:19] – “Rutherford dust” and the minerality of their wines [07:24] – Family-owned and family-run: what it really means at Staglin [09:42] – A breakdown of the varietals grown at the estate [10:38] – Introducing the Salus wines and their mission for mental health [13:15] – The origin of their One Mind foundation: from diagnosis to music festival [15:17] – What kind of impact the family hopes to make [17:21] – What to expect from a Staglin Cabernet Sauvignon [19:24] – Tasting Salus Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 8Wines £118 [23:37] – Where to buy: Simply Wines Direct & The Champagne Company [24:56] – Why Napa Valley wines are (deservedly) expensive [27:27] – How Napa’s climate makes organic farming easier [29:22] – Winemaking philosophy: balance, freshness, and textured finesse [33:10] – Creating a more equitable and inclusive wine industry [35:43] – Advice for small wineries looking to start giving back [38:09] – What’s next for Staglin: replanting, solar renewal, and generational transition [40:31] – Vine life cycles and the decision to replant [42:18] – How to visit the winery and what to expect [45:20] – Sharing a glass with wine legend André Tchelistcheff

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time - cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

We explore the impact of shared ownership, the challenges and beauty of farming as a community, and the power of giving future generations opportunities beyond the vineyard. From vine nurseries to old vine Chenin Blanc, this conversation is rich in knowledge and purpose.

Two wines are tasted during the episode: the affordable Generation 8 Chardonnay, supporting early childhood education projects, and the prestigious Optenhorst Chenin Blanc, sourced from the third-oldest Chenin vines in South Africa.

Whether you’re interested in equitable business models, viticulture innovation, or wines with purpose, this episode delivers inspiration in every sip.

Episode Guide (Chapters) [02:30] - How Julia approaches wine storytelling as a communicator [04:47] - How the land shapes the vines [07:51] - The role of climate and vine age [09:30] - Ethical working and community impact [11:35] - Shared ownership: transforming life on the farm [14:25] - Vision for youth and long-term opportunity [17:32] - How many people live on the farm as a community [18:57] - Tasting Generation 8 Chardonnay — a fresh, unoaked white wine with expressive fruit and minerality. Available at Sainsbury’s £9 (UK). [21:20] - How its sales support Bosman’s education projects [26:19] - What happens in the vine nursery during winter [30:46] - Clonal selection and rootstock combinations [33:23] - Bosman named Winery of the Year in the Platter’s Wine Guide [36:08] - Tasting Optenhorst Chenin Blanc 2023 — from 72-year-old dry-farmed bush vines. Around £25-30 per bottle. [38:59] - The story and power of old vines [41:06] - Pricing and exclusivity of Optenhorst; why it’s a rare and age-worthy wine [49:01] - What the wine industry must do for equity and representation [51:46] - Bosman Family Vineyards and more information

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk  

Until next time — cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Mount Yengo is more than just a wine label: it's a movement for inclusion and truth-telling through art, ancestral storytelling, and connection to the land. Through this episode we explore how Indigenous knowledge and values are guiding sustainable wine practices, how art and wine intersect as cultural expression, and how community and collaboration drive the brand's ethical vision.

From the symbolism behind each label to their practices with growers across South Australia and New South Wales, every bottle is rooted in purpose and tradition.

Whether you're interested in inclusive winemaking, Indigenous leadership, or simply looking to connect more deeply with the story behind your next glass of wine, this episode will stay with you.

Episode Guide (Chapters) [01:50] – What Mt Yengo stands for: a platform for reconciliation and cultural connection. [02:10] – Wayne shares his artistic journey and the role of ancestral wisdom in their work. [02:36] – Wine as a medium for connection—to land and to each other. [02:56] – How Mt Yengo began as a community-driven Indigenous brand. [06:31] – The stories behind the label artwork and the cultural role of women. [09:27] – Navigating initial bias: why an Indigenous wine brand faced resistance—and how they overcame it. [11:46] – Creating an ethical, inclusive model with growers and winemakers. [13:18] – Songlines, traditional land knowledge, and their integration into winemaking. [15:17] – “Reconciliation in action”: exporting wine and culture globally. [16:16] – The Adelaide Hills flagship range: partnerships, terroir, and excellence. 

[17:58] – Mt Yengo Wines is showcased Wine Paris  / Vinexposium,

[19:27] – Riverina wines: moving beyond bulk production toward quality. [22:42] – The climate and winemaking challenges in Hunter Valley. [24:38] – Semillon vs. Chardonnay: shifts in Hunter Valley grape trends. [26:32] – Deep symbolism in the Adelaide Hills artwork: land, femininity, and the cosmos. [29:48] – A powerful story of community celebration, culture, and joy. [33:03] – Movement, music, and communal joy: reconnecting through culture. [35:07] – How to respectfully engage with Aboriginal culture—starting with questions and curiosity. [38:24] – Regenerative viticulture: how growers are learning from First Nations traditions. [40:43] – Ben on how Mt Yengo’s influence is shifting mindsets in the wine industry. [42:00] – Final reflections on pride, purpose, and the growing impact of their journey.

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time - cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Heya Wines (meaning “She” in Arabic) is more than just a label, it’s a movement. From championing gender equity and employing Syrian refugee women, working with indigenous grapes and fermenting with apples in response to Lebanon’s energy crisis, every bottle tells a story of purpose and place.

We dive into their hands-on winemaking approach, explore the beauty of high-altitude terroir, and taste their soulful wines, from Nour, a textured white blend of direct press Obeideh & White Grenache to Kanz, a red made with carbonic maceration and aged in amphora. We also hear about the challenges of making wine in a region grappling with instability, and how the power of community, resilience, and female solidarity fuels every step.

This is a story of women rewriting what it means to make wine, not just in Lebanon, but everywhere. Whether you're curious about natural wine, socially conscious farming, or planning a trip to the Levant, this episode will inspire you to pour with intention.

1:23 - Founding Heya Wines: friendship, passion, and a mission for equity 5:15 - Facing gender bias and creating equal pay in Lebanon’s wine industry 7:53 - Hiring and empowering Syrian refugee women 9:57 - The rainy harvest: a community effort that defines Heya’s spirit 11:25 - Traditional Lebanese breakfast: manoushe, za’atar and labneh

13:38 - Heya’s location: high-altitude terroir (1450m) near the Syrian border

14.07 - The region of Dimane, North Lebanon and it’s terroir 17:27 - Creating Farha, a co-ferment of apples and indigenous Merwah grapes

18.03 - What does Merwah taste like? 18:40 -  Travel tips: Beirut → Batroun (45min) → Heya Wines (another 45min)

20.46 - What does Obeidah taste like, and how it compares to Merwah? 21:13 - Tasting Nour (white blend of Obeideh & Grenache) — made during the war Gnarly Vines - £30

 29:06 - Tasting Kanz (red Grenache-Syrah): carbonic maceration in amphora Gnarly Vines - £28

 29:34 - Kanz: “Treasure”: why it’s their most playful and textural wine

30.44 - How ageing in amphora affects the wine 34:49 - Food pairings: platters with white & red meats, yogurt, vegetables 35:45 - Global feedback and building a growing Heya Wines community 39:02 - Labels featuring real harvest women - authentic and unfiltered 41:12 - What’s next: expanding opportunities for women and working moms

42.17 - One message for listeners working in a vineyard, cellar or boardroom who can shape the future of wine  

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time - cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEEDSPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Remy is the force behind Remy Wines and the founder of Queer Wine Fest, and in this conversation, we explore how equity, intention, and creative problem-solving are not just buzzwords, but daily practices in her winery and beyond.

We get into everything from the power of thoughtful hiring and building inclusive spaces (yes, even bathrooms!) to the unexpected intersection of winemaking and carbon-sequestering concrete. You'll hear how Remy uses wine as a platform for change — whether it’s advocating for sustainable water solutions, supporting the ACLU through sparkling wine, or redefining what leadership in wine can look like.

We also dig into the volcanic soils of the Dundee Hills, explore her love affair with the Italian grape Lagrein, and learn why she’s aging wine in chestnut barrels — and what all of this has to do with place, purpose, and legacy.

Whether you're here for the terroir or the truth bombs, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a reminder that wine, at its best, is about people, progress, and pouring with purpose.

Episode Guide (Chapters)

2.45 - How intention shapes everything in the winery

5:38 – Creating Inclusive Wine Spaces

7:19 – The simplicity of building a thoughtful restroom and how this impacts the team

8.30 - Being thoughtful where job adverts go out

9.30 - Inventing Carbon Sequestration structural concrete called Solid Carbon

11.00 - Creative solutions to water challenges

13.24 - The importance of team meetings

17.20 - Creating Queer Wine Fest

22.30 - Winning the Governor's Award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

26:34 – Why Willamette Valley Matters

26:15 – The Importance of Speaking Out. Finding your voice

28:50 – Locating Remy’s Vineyards in the South Dundee Hills

28:56 – Soil and Terroir in the Red Hills (volcanic Jory soil)

29:49 – Describing the Local Climate and landscape in Willamette Valley

32:49 – Planting Italian variety Lagrein, what it offers, and why it works here

38:09 – Using Chestnut Barrels and extended aging

42.28: Black Heart Méthode Champenoise wine that supports ACLU

47:15 – What’s next

50.00 - What is one action that someone running a small winery can take this year to create a more inclusive business model?

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST. 

This episode is all about the rebels — the wild ones — the winemakers who’ve ripped up the rulebook and gone their own way. We’re diving deep into the world of declassified cult wines: the bottles that said "no thanks" to tradition-bound wine laws, and yet, somehow became some of the most expensive, most desired, and most obsessively followed wines on the planet.

But before we get to the juicy stuff, let’s set the scene.

You know those cryptic acronyms on European wine labels — AOC, DOCG, and even Qualitätswein? They’re steeped in history, tradition, and legal frameworks that protect the where, the what, and the how of a wine. They're there to ensure quality, consistency, and authenticity. 

And yet, to some, those same laws can feel more like shackles than structure. Want to plant Syrah in Bordeaux? Or fancy making an orange wine in Chianti? You can't under AOC or DOCG rules. Even if your wine is mind-blowingly good, if it doesn’t fit the mould, it gets dumped in the “Vin de France” or “Vino da Tavola” pile.

So in this episode, we raise a glass to the misfits, the rule-breakers, and the game-changers — winemakers who said, “Forget the label, let the wine speak for itself.”

We’ll travel from the storied vineyards of Bordeaux to the wild Loire, up through Tuscany, and back again — featuring the most expensive wine in the world, a Brunello scandal, and some unicorn bottles you’ve probably seen worshipped on Instagram.

Throughout this episode, whilst telling the tales of some of the most iconic and rebellious wines, you’ll also learn more about: vine density plantings in Bordeaux, the impact of phylloxera, the historic grape varieties of Bordeaux, what Bordeaux might have tasted like before the 1855 classification, the scandal of Brunellogate, the difference between Sangiovese in Montalcino vs Chianti, Chianti’s rigid and outdated regulations, and a few legends of the natural wine movement.

Get ready for trailblazing tales, creative freedom in a bottle, and a reminder that some of the best wines in the world never needed permission to be great.

Episode Chapters:

3.30: Introducing Liber Pater – the most expensive wine in the world

10.00: Introducing Louis-Benjamin - Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Asteroide – the holy grail of Sauvignon Blanc

15.30: Introducing Case Basse di Gianfranco Soldera Toscana Sangiovese – The wine making the most dramatic exit from Brunello di Montalcino DOCG

23.00: Introducing Le Pergole Torte from Montevertine – a 100% Sangiovese from the Chianti Classico region

26.10: Introducing the wines from Domaine des Miroirs in the Jura region – a Japanese winemaker producing ‘unicorn wines’.

32.30: Introducing a declassified super affordable wine for contrast: Gran Cerdo from Gonzalo Grijalba

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 

 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST. 

We'll talk Super Tuscans, Bordeaux, and about Harry's time in the Douro, fermenting separately the big five black grape varieties.

So get ready to learn the difference between Touriga Nacional and Tinta Cão, and how each contributes to the blend. You'll also hear some of Harry’s stories working with Jean-Claude Berrouet, the long-time winemaker and technical director at Pétrus.

So whether you’re a seasoned collector or just wine-curious, there’s plenty of name-dropping in this episode—and a few bottles you’ll definitely want to track down.

Episode Guide (Chapters)

6:08 – Launching Tiny Wine in partnership with Coravin and their Vinitas technology.

7:10 – How the Vinatas works: ‘The smallest bottling line in the world’. 7:56 – 100ml wine tubes as samples for the on-trade. 9:44 – How long do these Tiny Wine tubes last? Testing through a triangulated tasting with wine professionals. 16:03 – Harry’s Perspective on Fine Wine 17:50 – The criteria for wines chosen for Tiny Wine’s Tasting Boxes 19:55 – The Prize draw with a Magnum of Petrus 21:01 – Wine to try from the Super Tuscan Select box: Monte Antico 2020 22:04 – Wine to try from the Super Tuscan Explorer box: Coste del Vivo Rosso No.1 MV 23:30 – San Polino Brunello di Montalcino 23:55 – Wine to try from the Super Tuscan Somm box including Sassicaia, Tignanello and Caiarossa Toscana IGT 24:49 – Tignanello: The wine that created Super Tuscan Wine 25:24 – What is a Super Tuscan? (You can listen to dedicated Episode 169: Everything you need to know about Super Tuscans) 27:09 – Merlot planted in Chianti Vs The famous wine made from Merlot: Masseto 29:44 – Discussing Rocca di Frassinello’s amazing wine cellar and their Merlot wine: Baffonero 32:24 – Reflection on Portugal and influences from the Douro. 33:17 – A run down on what each of the 5 main black grapes of Douro offer to the blend 38:10 – Working with legendary winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet at Quinta da Boavista 40:21 – Blending trials in the winery of Ventisquero Wine Estates 43:57 – The rarest bottle in Harry’s Cellar: Familia Silva Branco 500l barrel of Tawny circa mid 1800s 45:31 – Best Value wine: South Africa 46:45 – Upcoming wine region: Attica, Greece 47:14 – What’s coming next for Tiny Wine 48:33 – Most memorable wine experience: A winemaking stint on Waiheke Island, New Zealand 49:33 – Winemaker shoutout: Kardenakhi 7 for their Fortified Rkatsiteli 51:33 – Prize draws for fine wines in large formats

To connect with Harry: Linked In and Tiny Wine Website

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 

 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST. 

We also dive into Bonarda, explore the stylistic transformation of Argentine wine over the past two decades, and learn how Colomé became not only one of the most celebrated wineries in the world (5 times included in The Worlds 50 Best Vineyards), but also one of the most remote.

Plus, find out what it takes to get there and why it’s worth the journey, especially for a visit to the breathtaking James Turrell light museum.

This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about South American wine, high-altitude terroir, and off-the-beaten-path wine travel.

Episode Guide (Chapters)

02:25 – The evolution of the Estate Malbec over 23 vintages

04:12 – Differences between low-altitude and high-altitude Malbecs

06:45 – Shifts in winemaking: lighter oak, earlier picking, softer extraction

08:12 – Influence of El Arenal (2,600m) and Altura Máxima (3,111m) terroirs

09.05 - Tasting the Colome Estate Malbec 2022 £24.95 Hay Wines

09:48 – Post-2018 philosophy shift: fresher style and climate adaptation

11:21 – How altitude impacts acidity, tannins, and fruit expression

13:05 – Mendoza vs. Calchaquí Valley vs. Patagonia Malbecs

14:52 – Malbec vs Pinot Noir: a grape of terroir?

16:11 – Why Argentina’s diverse Malbec styles need better communication

17:30 – Natural winemaking, carbonic maceration and stem use with Malbec

18:50 – Thibaut’s side project: Familia Delmotte begins

20:14 – Growing Garnacha, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Marsanne in Salta

21:30 – Sauvignon Blanc + Marsanne: blending freshness with honeyed texture

22:10 – Bonarda in Argentina: styles, history and best expressions

23:47 – Recommended Bonarda wines: Emma (Zuccardi), Altos Las Hormigas ‘Colonia Las Liebres’

26:25 – Meeting Donald Hess and the founding vision of Colomé

28:00 – Building a winery with no electricity or paved roads

29:25 – Blind tasting honesty: the birth of Colomé’s drinkability focus

30:38 – From 4–5 years to 20: Thibaut’s lasting legacy in Salta

31:50 – Being named Top 50 World’s Best Vineyards (x5)

33:10 – Keys to Colomé’s success: team longevity and shared philosophy

34:30 – The James Turrell Museum at Colomé: light, perception, magic

41:00 – How to visit Bodega Colomé: logistics from Salta to Cafayate

42:20 – Planning a wine trip: from paved roads to moonlike landscapes

43:30 – Day visit or boutique hotel stay? Best way to experience Colomé

45:50 – Salta wine travel loop: Cafayate – Colomé – Cachi – Cuesta del Obispo

47:05 – Why wine travel in Salta is an unforgettable sensory journey

48:12 – Final reflections: landscape, altitude, authenticity and people

50:14 – A glass of Torrontés by the pool at Colomé: pure magic

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 

 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST. 

Joining us is Thibaut Delmotte, winemaker at Colomé, to talk about crafting wines at extreme altitudes – some vineyards reaching over 3,000 meters above sea level! We explore how altitude affects grape growing, the unique challenges and benefits of Salta’s high desert terroir, and how Colomé balances tradition with innovation.

From Malbec and Torrontés to the remarkable Altura Máxima Vineyard at 3,111 meters, this episode is a deep dive into high-altitude winemaking, biodynamic farming, and what it means to make expressive wines in one of the world’s most remote regions.

This is a must-listen for anyone curious about South American wine, sustainable viticulture, and the magic of mountain-grown grapes.

01:02 – Meet Thibaut Delmotte, winemaker at Colomé

02:48 – Colomé’s founding in 1831 and its early vineyard history

05:34 – Commitment to ancestral and sustainable winemaking practices

06.31 - 170 year old old vines

08:18 – Fighting phylloxera and vineyard management in the region

10:50 – Rootstock decisions and adapting to terroir

13:25 – Harvesting: selecting plants one by one

15:48 – Distinct terroirs: different altitudes and soils

18:16 – Short-cycle varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Malbec

21:01 – Bird protection in Pinot vineyards

23:37 – Achieving balance between ripeness and typicity

26:13 – The role of recording and analysis in the vineyard

28:55 – Challenges of low rainfall in the region

31:32 – The uniqueness of the Calchaquí terroir

32.45 - The Queen grape of Salta: Torrontes

33.13 - Discussing Criolla Varieties, which you can listen to deeper in Ep 210 with Master or wine Amanda Barnes

34:25 – Saline soils of the region and Torrontes’ resistance

36:25 – Sunlight and temperature balance to preserve aromas

39:09 – Torontés characteristics: persistence and great acidity

41:25 – Evolution of acidity in the wines

43:55 – Vineyard block management and planning

41:36 – Tasting the Bodega Colomé Estate Torrontés £14.60-£16.50 Vinvm, Hik Wine Merchants

44.32 - Perfect food pairings for this wine

48:12 – The three different varieties of Torrontes

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

 📸 Follow on Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat

 🎥 YouTube Channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 

 🌐 More content: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time – cheers to you!

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST. 

In this episode, Ernie shares why Pinot Noir captured his heart, the styles he’s chasing, and what makes Pinot from the Pfalz, Oregon, and Burgundy so distinct. 

Stick around until the end, Ernie doesn’t hold back when it comes to sharing his truth.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.24: Origins of Villa Wolf – Established in 1996 to focus on Pinot varieties in Pfalz 

03.30: Pinot varieties have centuries of tradition in the Rhine and Pfalz regions  

04.30: Aged Pinot Noir and Riesling share similar aromas – “sous bois” character  

05.00: Use of “Pinot Noir” vs. “Spätburgunder” depending on export market  

07.00: Tasting and discussing the Villa Wolf Pinot Noir 2022 £12.95 Cheers Wine Merchants

11.30: Comparing German clones with French

14.00: Comparing the terroir Pfalz vs. Mosel  

17.00: Why Pfalz is nicknamed “Tuscany of Germany” 

20.00: Introducing Loosen's Oregon project: Appassionata Estate  

22.00: Appassionata named after Beethoven’s passionate composition  

22.30: Wines aged longer before release, unlike typical U.S. practice  

24.00: Volcanic soils require longer aging before release  

26.30: Longest-aged wines come from basalt-rich plots  

28.00: Ernst acquisition of the Vieux Château de Puligny-Montrachet in 2019 and it’s history in Burgundy

30.32: The style of Pinot Noir that Ernst is crafting

32.30: Whole bunch fermentation vs destemming

34.43: Stem use in winemaking: positives and negatives 

36.30: Ernst’s oak philosophy with Pinot Noir

39.30: Ernst favors 2019 Burgundy vintage and 2014 in Oregon  

41.30: Winemaking focus to avoid high alcohol styles  

42.30: Ernst speaks his truth: Low yields in this current climate does not just mean a better wine

46.24: Where is the world Ernst would want to plant next

47.45: Most memorable Pinot: Domaine Armand Rousseau 1969 Chambertin

49.00: Ernst’s advice for the next generation of winemakers

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

In this episode, we dive into Ernst’s bold reimagining of Mosel Riesling, including an extraordinary 27-year lees-aged wine experiment that continues to evolve and amaze. We explore what makes Riesling so uniquely expressive in the Mosel’s slate soils, cool climate, and dramatic river bends, and how Ernst has helped shift global perceptions of the grape - from sweet to serious.

From reviving his grandfather’s dry wine traditions to employing lees aging, oak fermentation, and extended maturation, Ernst shares how he crafts age-worthy, structured wines. With a global perspective shaped by work in Washington State (Chateau Ste. Michelle), Australia’s Clare Valley (Jim Barry), and beyond, he compares Riesling styles across continents and spotlights an unexpected collaboration with Spain’s Telmo Rodríguez, a skin-fermented dry Riesling you won’t see coming.

This is a rare, in-depth conversation with one of Riesling’s greatest modern champions. A journey through time, terroir, tradition, and transformation.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.00: Ernie’s accolades and biography

04.00: Taking over the family wine business in 1987

06.00: Vision for business: improve wine quality with indigenous yeast, better selection.

08.00: Tough decisions managing old estates, including employee retention in 1987 harvest.

09.30: Focus on leftover grapes during the harvest as an innovative solution.

10.00: 1987 vintage turned out well despite early challenges.

16.00: Discussing the 1981 Wehlener Sonnenuhr ‘Indutiomarus’ Riesling left on lees for 27 years.

18.00: History influences winemaking practices, referencing Mosel's 1800s Rieslings. (some of the most expensive wines of the world a that time)

20.00: Historical winemaking methods, like barrel aging and long ageing and this influence on wine style now.

23.00: Discussing and tasting the 2021 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Grosses Gewächs Riesling made from 100+ years old vines. £33 Lay & Wheeler

30.00: Wine label confusion is a global issue, not just German or French labels.

33.00: “Dry” label helps consumers unfamiliar with terms like GG: Grosses Gewächs.

34.00: Dr. L label’s success lies in simplifying for consumers, especially the UK market.

38.00: Riesling excels in single vineyards, highlighting terroir differences.

41.00: Mosel’s unique terroir, steep slopes, and river create ideal Riesling conditions.

45.30: Slate warms the soil, conserving heat during cool nights.

49.00: Dr Loosen GG Reserve style: at least two years in barrel for broader mouthfeel and riper fruit.

49.30: Rieslings from different regions maintain unique characteristics. Meet EROICA from Washington and LOOSENBARRY from Claire Valley.

52.30: Washington Riesling maintains moderate alcohol despite high sugar ripeness.

54.30: Pushing boundaries with Telmo Rodríguez, producing an Orange skin contact Riesling in Rioja barrels: Ernst Loosen & Telmo Rodriguez Graacher Himmelreich Riesling

56.00: Riesling’s global future holds potential with numerous ongoing projects.

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

In this episode, we dive into VIGNO, the groundbreaking collective Derek helped found, uniting passionate producers committed to old vine, dry-farmed Carignan. We explore how this movement is preserving tradition, terroir, and time through strict practices and deep respect for the land—and how it’s putting some of Chile’s most soulful wines on the global map.

It’s a rich, thoughtful conversation about legacy, collaboration, and the power of working with nature, not against it.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.40: Discussion of Carignan (Cariñena) and its role in the blend  

04.27: Talking about and tasting the Cru Truquilemu 2019 -  Vin Coqnito £58 (2018)

06.00: Vineyards' inheritance history helps trace vineyard origins  

07.30: Small batch fermentation methods and neutral barrels   

09.30: The value of separating lots and testing over vintages  

11.00: Growing interest in Cru wine due to critical acclaim     

14.25: Discussion of the Empedrado DO; coastal freshness  

16.01: Clarifying Maule’s geography; part of Southern Chile  

16.48: Climate differences in Maule vs. Santiago (seasonal shifts)   

18.00: Alcohol and balance - challenging the UK’s fixation on lower ABV and bottle weight  

19.00: Regenerative viticulture - using compost teas, no-till methods, and soil health trials  

21.00: Myth of poor soils - overstressed vineyards are being replanted before reaching full maturity  

23.30: Vineyard revival - greener canopies, improved shading, and resistance to heat  

24.07: Certification challenges - paperwork burden limits organic certification for small producers  

25.00: Verification vs. certification; Allan Savory’s philosophy on soil testing and real change  

28.44: Is Carignan a “complete grape”, like Cabernet Sauvignon? Questioning completeness and relation to alcohol  

29.00: Carignan initiative, collaborative DO for identity and quality; unique in Chile  

30.33: Chile's bulk wine success created a consumer price ceiling  

31.13: VIGNO labeling rules: VIGNO must be prominent on the bottle  

32.11: VIGNO evolution: from 65% Carignan minimum to 85%  

33.13: Vineyard collaboration: producers share technical knowledge  

34.00: Baron Philippe de Rothschild joins VIGNO, signaling broader acceptance  

35.55: Carignan vs País — where would Derek place his bet for the future?  

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Derek was recently honored with the prestigious Old Vine Hero Special Award for Overall Impact in 2024, recognizing his incredible contributions to old vine preservation, viticulture, and winemaking. As a founding member of VIGNO (Vignadores de Carignan) and MOVI (Movimiento de Viñateros Independientes), Derek is deeply committed to tradition, terroir, and artisanal winemaking. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating story of País — the very first grape to arrive in Chile in the 1500s — and explore what makes the Maule Valley such a special and historic place for wine.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.30: How Toronto native Derek Mossman Knapp ended up in Chile.

03.30: From hobby winemaker to starting an export wine business.

05.00: Partnering with small growers to make authentic wines.

08.00: Coastal Range terroir: granite soils and old vines.

10.00: Preserving rural food traditions like wheat milling.

11.30: Maule’s slower lifestyle rooted in agriculture.

12.00: Derek wins Old Vine Hero award.

14.00: Building a community around old vine viticulture.

15.00: Honoring Spanish heritage with grape naming.

16.30: Reviving País as Chile’s historic grape.

19.10: Tasting and discussing the Garage Wine Co. Revival Old Vine País 2021 (£17.95 - Currently £12.95 Slurp)

20.00: Praise for País as a fascinating wine with great interest despite its light style.

22.52: The difference between Maule Valley and the Secano Interior

23.51: Cauquenes known for concentration of old-vine País

25.00: Use of old País rootstocks for grafting new varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon.

26.30: Challenges of working with old, non-mechanized bush vines; need for focus and intention in the wine.

28.00: Plowing methods and regenerative farming; complex issues regarding irrigation and water management.

29.16: Mention of the low annual rainfall in Maule, with poor water retention in certain vineyards.

32.00: Fair compensation for workers and building a business around smaller, more focused projects.

33.00: Building a dedicated team to handle pruning, plowing, and harvesting; ability to pick on flexible schedules.

35.40: Hard work and passion required for wine production; a labor of love in the winemaking process.

36.00: Discussion of the future of Maule wine production on the global stage; challenges in the wine trade.

37.00: Wines that have differentiated themselves are faring better than those following trends; focus on quality over scale.

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

We chat about her recent mini-series The Lisboa Wine Tour, created in partnership with Vinhos de Lisboa, and available now on YouTube. Libby shares her fresh perspective, stories, and deep appreciation for Lisbon’s dynamic wine culture — from regional highlights to hidden gems.

Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about Portuguese wines, this episode is packed with inspiration and discovery.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.35: How a wine tasting sparked her passion in her twenties

05.45: Shifting from a theater career to wine during the pandemic

06.30: Lisbon’s charm and its welcoming, vibrant culture

07.00: Introduction to the Lisboa wine region and its Atlantic influence

09.10: The uniqueness and underappreciation of the Colaris DO.

13:30: The native grape variety Arinto and tasting of the Quinta de Sant’Ana Arinto 2020 (Caviste £35)

16:30: Quinta de Sant’Ana estate introduced — a 30 minute drive from Lisbon

19:45: Ideal food pairings for Arinto, including a perfect portuguese salted cod dish and an Arroz de Marisco

23:00: Quinta de Sant’Ana’s history and focus on family

25:30: Wines of Lisbon include 9 DOs — many close to the capital including Bucelas (famous region for Arinto)

28:00: Many wines labeled as Vinho Regional Lisboa for broader recognition.

28.30: Talking about and tasting the Arenae Ramisco 2015 (50cl) from Adega Regional de Colares (Hedonism £50)

30:21: The native red grape variety Ramisco from Colares DO

33.58: Perfect pairings with Ramisco including a traditional Portuguese stew

35:21: Adega Regional de Colares are the oldest co-op in Portugal

38:00: Introducing the smallest wine region in Portugal, the Carcavelos DO

39.30: Talking about and tasting the Villa Oeiras 7 years fortified (Stroud Wine £29 375ml)

40:30: The work that Villa Oeiras have done for this region that has almost disappeared

43:24: Pairing this wine with Pastel de Nata (Good in Bread)

46.30: Other native varieties such as Galego Dourado and Ratinho

50.57: A big push for the Vinhos de Lisboa to focus on native varieties

52.17: Leve wines: a low alcohol white wine

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

If you want to skip ahead:

1.00: Travelling to Champagne from London

1.30: Pronouncing Reims, and the differences between Reims and Épernay

2.30: The four official pruning methods of Champagne

5.45: The history of Champagne

8.50: Tasting Vins Clairs Wines - what are they?

11.45: Maison Perrier-Jouët 

14.00: The most interesting Vins Clairs comparing vines planted with cover crops

15.30: Comparing the same Vins Clairs base wine aged in stainless steel and foudre

16.00: Eating at Maison Belle Epoque

17.00: Maison Mumm

19.30: Comparing Chardonnay Vins Clairs to the Pinot Noirs

20.15: Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut NV

21.15: Mumm RSRV Blanc de Noirs 2014 

22.09: The Loisium Hotel in Mutigny

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Max is no stranger to opening some of the finest bottles on the planet, so I had to ask him: What are his five wines to try before you die? Before diving into Max's ultimate wine bucket list, we chat about underrated wine regions that deserve your attention, smart food and wine pairings, and the best way to speak to a sommelier to guarantee a great recommendation.

If you want to skip ahead:

01.44: Recommendations of wines from Eastern Europe 06.00: Oregon wine scene blends old and new styles 10.00: Best question to ask a sommelier revealed 11.00: Environment and mood affect how wine is perceived 14.30: Wine #1: Champagne Philipponnat Clos des Goisses 2008 15.30: Details on grape varieties and recent vintages 18.30: Premier cru status and underappreciated classification 19.00: Historical note: Clos des Goisses was the first-ever single-vineyard Champagne (1935) 19.53: Wine #2: Grower Champagne Ulysse Collin Les Perrières Blanc de Blancs 20.30: Winemaker Olivier Collin: lawyer turned Champagne grower 22.30: Small production commitment to affordability and authenticity 23.40: Cult following and connection to Cédric Bouchard & Jacques Selosse 24.00: Grower Champagnes gaining prestige—and higher price tags 24.30: Secondary market driving up prices—Maxim discusses restaurant pricing 26.30: Wine #3: Domaine Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrières 2014 26.41: Burgundy's compactness and the interconnectedness of families in wine production 27.30: Family heritage of the Morey family and the grower/negociant model 28.56: Popularity of PYCM wines and their appeal in both private and restaurant sectors 29.39: Differences between reductive and oxidative winemaking styles in Burgundy 30.57: Pricing discussion on PYCM wines and their market value fluctuations 31.07: Wine pricing and the impact of vintage demand on final costs 32.30: Wine #4: Ridge Montebello 1998 34.42: Ridge Montebello’s history, including its connection to American wine heritage 36.00: Impact of high elevation on freshness and complexity in California wines 37.36: Ridge Montebello’s consistency and value compared to Napa wines 38.30: Judgment of Paris impact on Ridge Montebello and American wine recognition 39.10: Consistency and reasonable pricing of Ridge Montebello in comparison to Napa Valley 39.44: Discussion on wine value, with wildfires potentially affecting wine quality 40.30: Wine #5: Emidio Pepe Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 1990

 40.35: Emidio’s commitment to traditional methods and aging wine for long-term storage 41.48: The challenge of Pepe’s business model, focusing on ideology over profits 43.30: Chiara’s focus on single-vineyard wines and modernization of production methods 44.00: Tasting wines from various decades, including 1990 vintage 44.30: Emidio Pepe's appearance at the tasting 45.00: Tasting notes on Pepe's wine 45.29: Final wine on the list, Maxim’s emotional connection to his grandfather's wine 46.30: Description of the natural wine-making process with PET bottles

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Joining us is Maxim Kassir, Head Sommelier at The Aubrey in the world-renowned Mandarin Oriental and ambassador for Drink Japan. With his expertise, we’ll explore the complexities of sake, from brewing techniques to flavor profiles.

This episode gets super involved —but if you love learning about the science behind what’s in your glass, this one’s for you. Let’s get into it!

If you want to skip ahead:

02.00: Wine was always part of Maxim’s culture and daily meals. 02.30: Moving to London in 2016 led him to pursue hospitality. 03.38: Expanding into Sake, completing WSET Level 3. 04.11: Working with Natsuki Kikuya, a "Sake samurai". 07.00: Enrolled in a pilot WSET Level 3 sake course. 07.30: How sake production differs from wine. 08.30: Sake dates back 3,000 years, developed through Japanese monasteries. 10.00: Early sake production involved monks chewing rice to start fermentation. 10.30: Koji mold plays a crucial role in modern sake-making. 11.00: Water is essential, and Japan’s soft water impacts sake quality. 12.00: Japan’s geography and water softness contribute to sake’s texture. 14.00: Japanese water affects yeast activity, impacting aroma development.

14.30: Sake and ambient yeast for fermentation

17.00: Importance of acidity in sake fermentation

19.00: Factors influencing sake styles

20:00: The role of rice in sake production 22:30: Traditional brewing process in Japan

24:30:  Umami and sake 26:30:  Advances in rice polishing and sake refinement 29:00:  Pride and precision in sake brewing

30:30: Sake polishing and competitions 31:00: Guinness record for polishing rice 32:00: The controversy of 0% polished sake 32:30: High-polish sake’s expensive process 32:58: Question on necessity of ultra-polished sake 33:00: Duration of sake fermentation 33:30: Technical nature of sake brewing 34:00: Comparison between sake and wine fermentation 34:30: Sparkling sake introduction 35:00: History behind sparkling sake’s creation 36:00: Champagne’s influence on sake production 37:00: Sake carbonation methods 37:30: Sparkling sake prices and techniques 38:45: Champagne makers turning to sake 39:00: Japan’s declining sake consumption 40:00: Government’s role in sake promotion

45.22: The different style of sake

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To put his knowledge to the test, I quiz Liam on the flavors, styles, and top regions for Chenin Blanc, from its spiritual home in the Loire Valley to the powerhouse vineyards of South Africa. We explore the difference between Vouvray and Savennières, the role of noble rot in sweet wines, and the surprising history of Chenin in California. But the challenge doesn’t stop there—I throw him into a rapid-fire round of global wine labeling terms to see if he can decipher everything from “Trocken” to “Feinherb.” 

Before diving in, I have some exciting news! I have been nominated for the Wine Travel Awards in the Influencer category for expert opinion. The awards celebrate the best in wine tourism and education, and your support could make a big difference. Your support would mean the world to me as I continue sharing my passion for wine with fellow enthusiasts. It takes one click to vote. So please VOTE HERE.

If you want to skip ahead:

04.30: Liam shares his earliest memories of drinking wine.

06.25: Being ranked seventh in England as a hammer thrower.

08.30: Running a recruitment business outside of wine.

09.30: Blogging and documenting his wine learning journey.

11.30: The goal to create content for wine beginners.

12.30: Blind tasting wines helps identify quality differences.

13.30: Liam’s three criterias to analyze wine: price perception, flavor intensity, and surprise.

15.30: Sharing the most embarrassing wine misunderstanding: Bubbles in a dusty wine glass

17.30: Sticky toffee pudding pairing with sparkling Viognier.

19.30: The Chenin Blanc quiz and flavor profiles.

20.30: Chenin Blanc is highly versatile in style and winemaking.

22.00: Warmer climates result in riper, more tropical fruit flavors.

24.00: Loire Valley is the historic home of Chenin Blanc.

27.00: California once had the most Chenin Blanc plantings in the world.

29.00: Key Loire regions for Chenin Blanc include Vouvray and Savennières.

31.00: Vouvray produces dry, off-dry, and sparkling Chenin Blanc.

32.30: Savennières is exclusively dry with high acidity and tension.

34.00: Vintage variation in Loire affects sweetness levels in Vouvray.

35.30: Noble rot enhances sweetness in Loire’s Coteaux du Layon wines.

38.00: South Africa's Swartland region produces high-quality Chenin Blanc.

40.00: Discovering premium South African producers like Ken Forrester.

44.00: Quickfire round on global wine labeling terms begins.

54.00: Final tip: Experiment by buying pricier versions of favorite wines.

And a reminder to vote for me for the Wine Travel Awards. It will only take a second: 

https://winetravelawards.com/nominee/janina-doyle/

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

You can buy Amandas book HERE!

Before diving into the world of South American wine, I have some exciting news! I have been nominated for the Wine Travel Awards in the Influencer category for expert opinion. The awards celebrate the best in wine tourism and education, and your support could make a big difference. Your support would mean the world to me as I continue sharing my passion for wine with fellow enthusiasts. It takes one click to vote. So please VOTE HERE.

And to listen to my previous episode (Ep 143) on Criolla Varieties - you can listen HERE.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.30: Amanda Barnes MW explains the origin of Criolla grapes and their genetic identification.

05.48: Discussion on the historical background of Listán Prieto and its impact on South American wines.

07.31: Amanda shares her fascination with old vines in Chile and the overlooked potential of Criolla varieties.

09.00: Challenges in gaining recognition for Criolla wines and the push to preserve old vines.

11.32: Highlighting the distinctive character of Pais in Chile and Criolla Chica in Argentina.

14.00: Quality potential of Criolla Grande and Ceresa for lighter red wines and rosés.

15.30: Exploring the different Torrontés varieties and their unique profiles.

18.00: Genetic confusion surrounding Torontel and the challenge of identifying new Criolla varieties.

20.30: Ancestral winemaking techniques in Chile, such as the use of the Zaranda de-stemmer and amphora aging.

23.00: The role of Criolla varieties in shaping South American wine culture.

25.00: Bolivia’s unique vine cultivation with trees and the distinctive flavors from Moscatel de Alejandría

29.00: Extreme winemaking in South America through high altitudes, southern latitudes, and coastal regions.

35.30: Mendoza highlighted as the epicenter of South American wine with diverse terroirs and excellent tourism.

41.00: One of the most beautiful vineyards: Laberinto in Maule, Chile.

44.00: Where to find and connect with Amanda Barnes:

Instagram @amanda_wine and @southamericawineguide 

And a reminder to vote for me for the Wine Travel Awards. It will only take a second: 

https://winetravelawards.com/nominee/janina-doyle/

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

You can buy here book HERE

I'm excited to interview Amanda because passing the Master of Wine exams is an incredible achievement. These exams are famously tough, requiring deep knowledge, sharp tasting skills, and relentless dedication. This episode celebrates Amanda's success, starting with her journey—her challenges, discoveries, and advice for anyone pursuing their goals, whether in wine or another passion.

The first 24 minutes focus on Amanda's story, including practical tips on blind tasting, refining your palate, and effective study methods.

Since this episode aligns with International Women's Day on March 8th, we also spotlight trailblazing South American women winemakers. Starting at the 24-minute mark, Amanda, an expert in South American wines, highlights a few names you need to know—Susana Balbo, Agus Hanna (Bodega Ruca Malen), and Emily Faulkner (Viña Carmen). She also shares some great-value South American wines to try and explains how soil types shape their flavors.

I hope this episode inspires you and offers a deeper look at the wine world and the people pushing its boundaries. Enjoy the stories and the learning. Cheers!

I’m proud to be working with Drinklusive—the drink industry's first-ever inclusivity mentorship program founded by Aidy Smith, and The Three Drinkers, and supported by Jancis Robinson, the Gérard Basset Foundation, and WSET. It’s all about giving underrepresented voices a platform in the drinks world. If you're in the UK, applications are open now - CLICK HERE!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.12: The difficulty of the MW qualification

06.04: How the pandemic interrupted Amanda’s studies and preparation

07.18: The grueling MW exam process and the sacrifices required

08.07:  Breaking down the MW theory papers, covering viticulture, winemaking, and business

09.44: The blind tasting exam and analyzing structure over simple identification

10.28: The importance of writing detailed tasting notes during exams

12.07: Giving up alcohol and how that benefits sharpening your palette 

14.23: Why acidity, tannins, and alcohol levels are more reliable indicators than fruit flavors

16.19: The differences between tasting for exams and tasting for enjoyment

17.08: Why classic regions like Burgundy were Amanda’s biggest challenge in the MW

19.27: Learning classic regions through conversations with winemakers and experts

22.38: The importance of making wine education enjoyable

24.04: How friendships and study groups helped the MW journey

27.53: How Susana Balbo broke barriers as Argentina’s first female winemaker

29.42: Susana’s contributions beyond winemaking, including her role in politics

31.10: Introducing rising star winemakers, including Agus Hanna (Bodega Ruca Malen) and Emily Faulkner (Viña Carmen)

32.58: Emily Faulkner’s impact on Chilean winemaking

34.36: The evolution of female leadership in South American wineries

36.14: How female MWs, including Jancis Robinson MW and Rosemary George MW, supported Amanda

38.42: Mentorship in the wine industry

41.52: Recommendations of great-value South American wines, including Criolla Grande from Bodega Niven

42.18: Bodega Crusat traditional method sparkling wines from Mendoza

43.20: Chilean Cinsault from Itata - an affordable, high-quality wine

43.35: A los Viñateros Bravos lead by soil geek Leo Erazo

45.21: How soil influences wine and how to identify the signature traits of granite soils in wine

46.37: Exploring soil types to improve your tasting skills

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

I’m proud to be working with Drinklusive—the drink industry's first-ever inclusivity mentorship program founded by Aidy Smith, and The Three Drinkers, and supported by Jancis Robinson, the Gérard Basset Foundation, and WSET. It’s all about giving underrepresented voices a platform in the drinks world. If you're in the UK, applications are open now - CLICK HERE!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.20: Öküzgözü: Turkey’s most planted red grape variety 03.36: Kalecik Karası (KK) Introduction to the popular grape variety, its revival and history. 05.00: KK Clones & Quality - 23 clones identified for better quality production. 06.00: KK Tasting Profile 06.46: Beaujolais Comparison-KK compared to Beaujolais with earthy and wild characteristics. 09.00: St. Laurent Comparison-Austrian grape comparison with wild, earthy, and fruit-forward elements. 10.10: Volcanic Soil Influence 11.08: Personal Discoveries & Unique experiences tasting Turkish red wines. 12.00: Tasting Vinolus Kalecik Karasi &Tempranillo Blend 15.30: Travel logistics to the winery in Cappadocia 18.10: The sunny region of Cappadocia and wine tourism opportunities. 21.00: Focus on indigenous grape varieties in Turkey and their importance in local wine production. 21.30: Discussion about the indigenous grape varieties - “Throat Scratcher” (Boğazkere). 22.11: Most red indeginous grapes to look out for: Papazkarası and Foça Karasıı. 23.00: Importance of Ankara as a key region for certain grapes. 25.00: The role of international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in Turkey. 26.00: Organic, sustainable winemaking in Turkey. 29.00: Turkey’s wine story and positioning in the global wine scene. 31.00: The approachability and commercial appeal of Turkish wines. 32.00: Challenges in Turkey's wine industry: taxation and advertising restrictions. 33.00: Low domestic wine consumption in Turkey compared to countries like France and Portugal. 35.00: The resilience and passion of Turkish wine producers. 37.00: Turkey’s old vines and the Heritage Vines Association 39.00: Wine routes emerging in Turkey, signaling the future of Turkish wine tourism. 40.40: The book "Turkish Wine, A Heritage Reborn" is available on Amazon

To read more about the book you can go to their instagram page HERE

To purchase the book Turkish Wine: A Heritage reborn- go to AMAZON

Or you can purchase via the publisher in Austria HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Join us as we explore the fascinating story of Turkish wine, inspired by the book Turkish Wine: A Heritage Reborn. We're joined by Sila, daughter of winemaker Olus from Vinolus Winery, and wine writer Bronwen Batey, who helped bring this story to an English-speaking audience.

Today we very much spotlight two must-try Turkish white grapes: Narince and Emir, the Cappadocia region and it’s terroir and why it’s a must visit region to add to your list.

I’m excited to share that I’m partnered with WineMasters.tv! If you're passionate about wine, this premium streaming platform offers over 127 episodes exploring legendary wine regions, cutting-edge production techniques, and masterclasses with experts like Jamie Goode, Andreas Larsen, and Susie Barry, MW. By using my special affiliate link, you’ll not only dive deeper into the world of wine but also support the work I do here on the podcast. CLICK HERE TO CHECK IT OUT!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.34: Sila shares her background as the daughter of Olus, Vinolus Winery’s founder in 

            Cappadocia and her journey to lead the winery's second generation

04.41: Bronwen discusses her WSET diploma, her role in translating a book on Turkish     

            wine, and the diverse range of contributors involved

08.01: The Story of Vinolus Winery

11.00: Overcoming Challenges as a Female Winemaker

12.29: Organic Winemaking & Sustainability: Vinolus Winery’s holistic approach to winemaking 

            embraces eco-diversity and sustainability

13.07: The Deep History of Turkish Winemaking

16.00: Wine Production in the Ottoman Empire

18.30: Tasting Turkish Wines – Narince known for its versatility and mineral-driven flavors, is a 

           standout variety produced at Vinolus £18.10 Vino Turco

23.18: The growth of Narince in Cappadocia, and different style of Narince

27.51: The Meaning of Narince, reflecting the wine’s approachable complexity

28.05: Narince’s Flavor Profile

29.22: Emir - a fuller-bodied white wine made from 40-year-old bush vines in Cappadocia

30.11: Turkey’s most renowned indigenous white grape

33.02: Discussing Cappadocia’s Terroir-how the high altitude and volcanic soil contribute to its 

           wines’ mineral-driven character.

34.01: Turkish Wine Regions: Turkey's key wine regions, with Thrace as the largest, followed by 

           Anatolia, where Cappadocia is located.

37.30: Turkey’s Microclimates: Bronwen highlights how Turkey’s diverse 

           microclimates allow for the production of a wide variety of grape types and wine styles, 

           making it an exciting region for discovery.

39.08: Cappadocia’s Wine Culture - Cappadocia’s famous “Fairy Chimneys” and ancient 

           underground cities, once used for wine storage.

41.02: Wine Aging in Cappadocia - how Cappadocia’s underground caves provide ideal aging 

            conditions for wine, thanks to their stable temperature and humidity.

To read more about the book you can go to their instagram page HERE

To purchase the book Turkish Wine: A Heritage reborn- go to AMAZON

Or you can purchase via the publisher in Austria HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

We go beyond the grapes to explore Ukraine’s main wine regions, from the Black Sea coast to the Romanian and Hungarian borders. We also discuss the challenges winemakers face, the impact of recent conflicts, and their resilience through innovation—like infusing wines with botanicals (yes, I’ll be trying a wine-based mojito!). Finally, we look ahead to the future of Ukrainian wine tourism. 

If you want to skip ahead:

03.30: The Crimea and Black sea wine regions and their history 

06.00: Prince Troubetzkoy Winery, Ukraine's oldest winery, destroyed by Russians  

07.30: Wineries such as Beyush Winery based on a sanctuary

09.09: The Transcarpathia Wine Region (the western most region of Ukraine)

10.00: Carpatian Sekt Rosé made from the Blaufränkisch grape by Chateau Chizay

11.16: Preference for sweeter styles in Ukraine due to Soviet Union times

14.00: Chateau Chizay’s infused wines, like Pinot Grigio with Lime and Mint Ukrainian Wine Company £14 

16.30: Foraging culture in Ukraine for herbal teas and infused wines.

19.06: Developing wine regions around Kyiv

21.26: Traveling to Ukraine's Wineries - visiting Odessa, Lviv, and the Carpathians for unique wine experiences.

26.00: Resilience of Ukrainian Winemakers and continuing their work despite challenges.

27.30: Ukrainian Wine Export Efforts

29.15: Emphasis on Ukrainian wines that stand out for their quality and unique styles.

Please find link below to learn more about purchasing Ukrainian wine, depending on where you are in the world:

UK

Europe

USA

And follow Sera in Instagram HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

If you want to skip ahead:

00.00: Sera Crow shares her journey and passion for Ukrainian wines.

05.00: The Evolution of Ukrainian Wine – From Soviet-era perceptions to post-2014 growth

07.00: The Impact of Crimea’s Occupation

08.00: Journey in the UK Wine Scene

10.00: The Rise of Ukrainian Wine Exports

11.00: Expanding Ukrainian Wine Presence Internationally - reaching the UK, EU, US, and Japan.

13.00: What Makes Ukrainian Wines Unique?

16.00: Notable Ukrainian Wineries and Wines – Spotlight on Beykush, Kolonist, and the rise of experimental wines like Pet-Nats and amphora-aged blends

17.00: A bordeaux blend to try: Kolonist Cabernet Merlot “Haut de gamme” 2020 Ukranian Wine Company £29

19.00: Sukholimanskyi (A cross between Chardonnay and Plavai) - a unique white grape variety being explored alongside Odessa Black - Ukraines Flagship grape

22.00: Conclusion – The bright future of Ukrainian wines and where to find them worldwide (find info at the bottom)

27.00: Skin Contact and Natural Wines in Ukraine – The impact of Georgian traditions, rising demand, and Ukraine’s experimental winemaking scene.

28.00: Ukrainian Biologist Craft Winery’s biodynamic approach and success with Aligoté

30.00: Impact of Climate Change on Ukrainian Vineyards

32.00: Biologist Aligoté 2021 Wine Tasting Notes Ukrainian Wine Company £24.50

34.00: A limited-edition wine bottled post-invasion with a patriotic blue-and-yellow label from Biologist - see HERE

38.00: Telti-Kuruk: Ancient Ukrainian Grape – A rare variety dating back to the 5th century

41.00: Historical Importance of Wine in Ukraine

43.00: Citron Magaracha - a Muscat-related crossing known for producing fragrant, Muscat-style wines

Please find link below to learn more about purchasing Ukrainian wine, depending on where you are in the world:

UK

Europe

USA

And follow Sera in Instagram HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

This week, we’re diving into a truly fascinating topic: Why Bhutan might just become one of the world’s next great wine regions and how vineyards at high altitudes are cleverly evading the challenges of climate change. Kathleen shares incredible insights on how elevation impacts grape quality, the role of antioxidants in wine, and how canopy management is evolving to adapt to warmer temperatures. Plus, we explore the future of high-altitude viticulture and whether it could become more accessible beyond premium producers.

If you want to skip ahead:

04.00: Bhutan’s first commercial vineyards and why it’s an exciting new wine region.

06.00:  Bhutan’s carbon-negative status and sustainable wine potential.

07.00:  Bhutan Wine Company – how it started and who’s behind it.

10.00: The unique terroir of Bhutan and its winemaking potential.

12.00: Experimenting with 17 grape varieties to find the best fit.

14.00: Wine tourism in Bhutan – could it become a destination?

16.00: How elevation impacts grape quality and wine balance

18.00: Antioxidants in high-altitude wines

22.00: High-altitude viticulture worldwide

24.00: "California Sprawl" technique for shading grapes in Napa

26.00: Challenges of high-altitude viticulture - Labor-intensive farming vs. machine harvesting

This conversation was inspired by Kathleen’s article: Will Bhutan be the worlds next great wine region and How vineyards closer to the sun are evading climate change

You can also follow her on Instagram to be able to read more of her articles HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

A big thank you to our sponsor for this episode, Wild Idol! If you're embracing Dry January or simply seeking a sophisticated, alcohol-free option, Wild Idol is the perfect choice. Their handcrafted sparkling drinks use carefully selected grapes for exceptional flavor and aromatics. But it’s not just about great taste—Wild Idol’s dedication to sustainability is truly inspiring. From upcycled corks and recycled glass bottles to eco-friendly packaging printed with natural soy, they go above and beyond. As a proud 1% for the Planet member, they donate 1% of annual sales to support environmental causes. Whether you're celebrating, hosting, or treating yourself, Wild Idol has you covered. Find them at Harrods, the Dorchester, or your favorite online retailers. Cheers to a brighter, greener future with Wild Idol!

If you want to skip ahead:

7.00:   Loveblock WInery Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand)  - They use green tea tannins as a natural antioxidant in place of sulphur

8.02:   L.A.S Vino Vermentino (Margeret River, Australia) - They are soaking their grapes in sea water

16.53: Ochota Barrels Botanicals of the Basket Range (Adelaide Hills, Australia) - A winery focused on biodynamic and organic farming practices are infusing botanicals with their wines

18.59: Pangeaa Estate - The unique concept of blending grape varieties sourced from different terroirs across the world to create a global Bordeaux-inspired wine

24.00: Penfolds II (South Australia) - blending Cabernet Sauvignon from bordeaux with Syrah from Australia

27.00: Alois Lageder Comets Range Assyrtiko NV (Alto Adige, Italy) - recognized for planting in high elevations and experimenting and innovating through their Comets range

33.00: Early Mountain Vineyards Petit Manseng NV (Virginia, USA) -  Creating a perpetual lees system with Petit Manseng

39.40: Litchen Estate Pinot Noir MV (Anderson Valley, USA) - producing a Pinot Noir using a solera system

40.47: Sean Thackrey Pleiades NV (California, USA)  - The creator of eccentric crazy blended wines

42.00: Valdivieso Caballo Loco NV (Maipo,Chile) - A Solera system Bordeaux blend wine first started 20 years ago

This conversation was inspired by Kathleen’s article: Wine Drinkers Thirsty for Change featured on Wine Searcher

You can also follow her on Instagram to be able to read more of her articles HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

As we wrap up the year, Jacinta also opens up about how her ADHD diagnosis has shaped her journey as an entrepreneur, offering inspiration for anyone considering new ventures in 2025. Tune in for wine wisdom, personal growth, and a toast to the year ahead!

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

4.00: The Bulgarian Melnik 55 grape variety

11.00: The Xinomavro variety from Greece

16.50: On to the St. Laurent grape from Austria

21.00: Back to Sicily (mentioned in Part 1) with the Frappato variety

26.55: The sweet fortified wine from Greece - Mavrodaphe of Patras

36.31: How Jacinta’s ADHD diagnosis helped shape her entrepreneurial journey 

Follow Jacinta on Instagram @inflorescencewines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Together, we dive into her Top 5 Lesser-Known White Grape Varieties—a must for your Christmas table or a refreshing start to “Try January.” Forget dry January and embrace discovery with these surprising and delightful wines.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

07.30: Jacinta’s passion and journey into the world of Wine

15.32: The Koshu grape variety from Yamanashi, Japan

23.54: The Assyrtiko grape from Santorini, Greece (But now in Lebanon!)

27.00: The Chasselas (Fendant) grape from Vaud and Valais in Switzerland

34.31: The Loin de l'oeil grape Variety from Gaillac, France

44.35: The Carricante grape variety from Sicily (Famous in Etna Bianco)

Follow Jacinta on Instagram @inflorescencewines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Join us as we journey to Lebanon, a land steeped in winemaking history. Vince shares his heartfelt experiences filming in this remarkable region, highlighting its unique terroir, the harmony of ancient traditions and modern techniques, and the influence of Lebanon's breathtaking mountainous landscapes.

From the iconic wineries of Ixsir, Chateau Musar, and Chateau Ksara to unforgettable tastings, this episode is a tribute to the resilience and innovation of Lebanese winemaking and its growing recognition on the global stage.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

5.00: Lebanon Episode overview - significance of recording in Lebanon and the emotional impact 

8.00: The transformative power of travel and intersection of wine, food and heritage

10.00: Exploring Lebanon’s coastline, valleys and mountains

12.00: Ixsir Winery in Batroun and Chateau Musar in Ghazir

14.00: Wine styles and Heritage - blending tradition with modern winemaking techniques

17.00: Lebanon’s signature Wine traits

17.54: The white grapes Obaideh and Merwah

19.00: Red blends of Bordeaux and Rhône varieties

21.00: Notable Wines and their profiles

22.57: Lebanese Cuisine and wine pairing

26.00: The art of Arak - a grape brandy with Anise, a staple in Lebanese culture

28.15: Resilience of Lebanese people - entrepreneurship and pride in their wine and food

30.00: Why Wine matters in Lebanon - a symbol of cultural pride

34.07: Tips on travelling to and from Lebanon

35.30: The Vino VIP club - Vince’s free youtube channel and exclusive Wine club

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Join us as Vince shares his journey into creating this celebrated series, the challenges he’s overcome, and unforgettable stories from his travels. We’ll also get an exclusive sneak peek into his upcoming episode on France’s Loire Valley, renowned for its diverse wines, stunning landscapes, and legendary castles. Plus, don’t miss his passionate take on Chenin Blanc and the hidden gems of the region.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

4.00: How wine Inspired Vince’s Journey

6.00: Early plans for the wine club and the start of V for Vino

14.05: The upcoming Loire Valley podcast episode

14.30: Value and diversity of Loire Wines

17.30: Versatility of Chenin Blanc in detail

16.17: The boom of Chenin Blanc in California

29.30: Discovering the depth of Muscadet and the different Crus

24.30: Loire Valley’s Rosé styles

27.00: Cabernet Franc’s Terroir Expression

32.00: Sauvignon Blanc and Gamay from Touraine region

33.10: The Castles of Touraine

36.40: Why you must visit Nantes

38.44: Cycling along the Loire River

42.34: Domaine Huet and Nicolas Joly - the big names in the Loire

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

I even joined the harvest, witnessing the dedication that goes into each grape, and now I want to share that experience with you. To dig deeper into the art and science of quality wine canning, I’m joined by Ben Franks, co-founder of Canned Wine Co.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.09: Becoming a wine entrepreneur and Camel Valley’s influence on Ben’s journey

05.25: Early wine influences

07.21: The creation of Novel Wines

10.00: The leap into creating Canned Wine Co

12.25: Challenges of canning premium wines

15.32: The tiny PH limits for canning wine and problems with Savignon Blanc

19.38: A 2 year shelf life on the cans

22.26: Choosing the varietals to go into can

26.08: Discovering the Gamay of Lionel Gosseaume - a Loire Winemaker

28.50: Old Vine Gamay

30.09: Comparing Gamay from Loire and Beaujolais

31.59: Food pairing with Canned Wine Co Gamay

35.14: Experience of comparison tasting the same Gamay from bottle and can out of glass

37.31: Sauvignon Blanc paired with the Loire Valley Goat’s Cheeses

38.24: The wine region for Sauvignon Blanc: Oisly

42:48: Ability for wine expiration with several Canned Wine Co wines

44:19: Sustainability of canned wines

45:38: Technical understanding of how to can wine

48.13: The design of the labels

51:09: The benefits of pouring canned wine into a glass to enhance its flavor and aroma.

53.18: Addressing myths on the quality of canned wine

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

3.16: The Provence wine region

3.42: The history of Provence: The oldest wine region in France

4.54: The grapes of Provence and the Rosé wine blend

6.16: The sub regions of Provence

7.26: La Londe sub region

10.16: Quality wine production using grape harvesters 

13.15: What is a Cru Classé winery in the AOC Côtes de Provence

15.21: The typical blend of Château Sainte Marguerite

16.03: Being organic and producing vegan wines

17.05: Pressing the grapes, and the gentle winemaking approach needed for Provence Rosé wine production

19.38: The Three Rosés from Château Sainte Marguerite:

Symphonie 2023 £26 Strictly Wine and ND John Wines

Fantastique 2023 £40 Great Wine Co and Strictly Wine

Marguerite's Rosé Collection 2023 €55 Direct from Château Sainte Marguerite

21.30: The Sensory Experience offered at Château Sainte Marguerite

22.55: Food pairing with these wines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.08: Ollie shares some wine experiences from Tokaj and tasting raw Tokaji in the vineyards

07.58: Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley and understanding the region from above

09.53: De Bortoli Botrytis Semillon dessert wine (the benchmark of Australian ‘Botrytis’ dessert winemaking)

10.46: The Mac Forbes wines

11.28: Supporting charities through Celbrity game shows

13.47: Wine Society’s commitment: Sustainability focus

15.28: 150 years of the Wine Society: Celebrating heritage wines

17.15: Importance of sustainability in wine purchasing

20.19: Risks and rewards of growing wine grapes in England

23.05: Describing English Chardonnay vs. Chablis

26.25: Olly’s "Jazz Rolodex" for unexpected wine finds

28.18: Bacchus as England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc

30.12: Olly’s Bacchus wine recommendations

36.08: Upcoming event - Olly's Christmas tasting with Oz and Tim: The Big Christmas Wine Fest

36.52: Previous episode with Tim Atkin MW (Ep 163 RIOJA and Ep 164 RIBERA DEL DUERO)

39.03: The Glass House concept: Wine bars on P&O cruises and Food Hero Cruise Experiences 

41.34:  Moscato d'Asti 

43.28: Tasting sessions on P&O cruises

45.44: Favorite wine and food pairings with Jose Pizzaro’s dishes

47.48: Debunking wine myths 

49.03: Misconceptions about serving temperatures for wines

50.36: Favourite wine gadget

51.12: Desert Island wine: Wines from Peter Hall

52.42: BBC Two appearance this November 2024 on Between the Covers

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

But that’s not all! We’ll also chat about his time on Saturday Kitchen, his surprising food and wine pairings, and his experience hosting his own podcast A Glass With, where he’s interviewed stars like Kylie Minogue and Pink, who both make their own wines.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.39: Olly’s most crazy wine stories whilst travelling - Santorini hangover cures and Llama attacks

06.58: Olly’s first wine experience 

09.06: A love for Greek wine and why

11.28: Greek white wine varieties - Moschofilero and Malagousia

10.42: Vidiano from Oenops Winery in Crete

13.09: DIscussion of greek rosé varieties - Read Olly’s article on Greek Rosé HERE

13.20: Xinomavro Rosé by Thymiopoulos

14.22: Clio by Muses Estate

15.32: Greece’s terroir and the role of its altitude and climate

16.52: The greek wines from Crete

18.06: Vidiano and Liatico wines by Iliana Malihin

19.26: Lyrarkis winery

21.05: The first Retsina to get 97 points and platinum with Decanter World Wine Awards: Tears of the Pine

23.04: Savatiano from Domaine Papagiannikos

24.03: Malagousia from Gerovassiliou

26.02: The almost extinct Kidonitsa grape variety and winery Monemvasia

28.24: Another recommended winery: Domaine Skouras

30.09: Recommendations on greek islands to visit

33.26: Greek food and wine pairing - Moussaka and Xinomavro 36.12: Pairing with Sage and with Nero di Troia 

39.01: Olly’s Podcast journey - Listen HERE

40.54: Celebrity guest Dawn French

41.52: Kylie Minogue’s wine range

43.18: Celebrity wines: Inglenook featured on Ep 61 of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Podcast

44.36: Britpop by Alex James

46:57: Pink’s winery Two Wolves

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

In this episode, we're diving into a topic that's close to many of our listeners' hearts: sustainability and responsible farming. Tablas Creek became the world's first Regenerative Organic Certified winery in 2020, so Jason is the ideal guest to walk us through soil health, biodiversity in vineyards, and how even sheep and insects play a positive role in the ecosystem. We’ll also explore how to manage pests without synthetic chemicals and the advantages of cover crops.

Plus, we’ll be tasting their fantastic 2023 Patelin de Tablas Rosé, now available not just in bottles but also in an eco-friendly bag-in-box format. We’ll chat about the environmental impact of packaging and whether premium wines in boxes could be the future. 

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.34: The inspiration behind Jason committing to sustainable and regenerative farming practices at Tablas Creek

05.38: Examples of how to create an ecosystem that is in in balance on the farm

07.19: Converting a block to biodynamic farming and the results

10.27: The Regenerative Organic Alliance Group and joining the program

13.28: Best techniques in the sequestration of carbon from the atmosphere

16.13: Benefit of sheep and other animals positioned around the vineyard

19.11: DIscussing the use of certain insects and their effectiveness

22.27: Premium wine in a box, and the 2020 Greenhouse gas self-audit

29.52: Benefits of wine in in sustainably sourced packaging, and pros vs cons in comparison to glass bottles

32.27: What each Chateauneuf du pape varietal adds to the Rosé blend 

35.08: Tasting notes and flavour profile of the Patelin de Tablas Rosé 2023 The Wine Society £69 3L Bag in Box

38.45: The ripple effect this packaging alternative may bring to the industry

41.36: The convenience of wine in a box when traveling

42.37: Consumers understanding of sustainability in wine and regenerative farming practices

47.31: The Tablas Creek Blog

48.43: Jason Haas nominatee of the Wine Star Award 2024 for person of the year!

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

Cheers!

If you want to skip ahead:

02.23: How the relationship started between Tablas Creek and  Château de Beaucastel

07.15: Why choose Paso Robles wine region for planting Rhône Varietals

10.55: Terroir differences further inland in Paso Robles where more  Bordeaux, Spanish varietals and Zinfandel are being planted

13.09: How does the Adelaide AVA region where Tablas Creek is, compare to Châteauneuf-du-Pape

15.17: The best advice recieved from The Perrin Family of Château de Beaucastel

18.00: The Challenges of importing cuttings from Château de Beaucastel and the complications of them passing their quarantine

23.32: Muscardin - the final grape to be imported and soon to be released as a single varietal

25.12: Tasting the flagship red - Espirit de Tablas Rouge 2020 and what each varietal adds to the blend (Mourvedre, Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, Vaccarese, Cinsaut) Vinvm (2017 vintage) £50.30

30.12: The benefits of Mouvedre being the lead in the wine

31.31: Vintage differences, the fires of 2020, and five year drought

36.04: Tasting the flagship white- Espirit de Tablas Blanc 2020 and what each varietal adds to the blend (Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette Blanche, Picardan) Vinvm (2019 vintage) £44.05

40.22: Comparing the 2019 vintage to 2020

41.50: Discussing the single grape varietal wines

45.48: Growth of Rhône Rangers in California and the Tablas Creek Nursery supplying them

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Join us as we journey through the lesser-known wine regions of Castilla y León, uncover indigenous grape varieties that deserve the spotlight, and hear some of Beth’s most humorous and adventurous stories from her travels through Spain’s vineyards. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or new to the world of Spanish wines, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

Cheers!

If you want to skip ahead:

02.16: Driving through Spain, car dramas and small villages

04.52: Interesting conversations with locals and travel advice for visiting Spanish wine regions

07.06: Castilla y León & the 13 DO’s, starting with Ribera del Duero & Rueda

09.18: Rueda (you can buy Beth’s report HERE) - Traditional wines aged in Tinaja, The Dorado Style and terroir

10.10: Arlanza, and it’s old vines Tempranillo

12.09: Heading towards the Portuguese border: Salamanca, Zamora, Arribes & their traditional reds

12.42: Sierra de Gredos and their fresh Garnacha

13.05: The Clarete of Cigales

14.36: Tempranillo in Cigales, Toro & Ribera del Duero

17.43: The Telling Room by Michael Paterniti - a must read about the worlds best cheese from Castilla y León

20.46: What exciting things are happening in the lesser known DOs

25.10: Rufete grape variety of Salamanca

27.28: Recommended indigenous grape varieties of note

30.17: Ossian Winery in Rueda and their old vines

30.30: Manade Winery: Organic and sustainable winemakers

32.42: Madrid’s wine bars and shops to visit

34.52: Tasting 600 wines of Spain for the Discover Spain report, co-writen by Beth and Tim Atkin

37.08: The 100 point wine of the Discover Report, an old vine Airén from Bodegas Cerrón

41.40: Next stage in Beths Journey continuing through Spain

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Beth takes us through the fascinating world of Mencía grapes, the terroir of Bierzo, and the latest trends shaping this vibrant wine region. But that’s not all—we’ll also dive into the delicious wines from San Sebastián, one of the best regions for foodies, where we discuss the Txakoli wines (often poured from a height).

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

Cheers!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.00: The defining moment for Beths‘ wine adventures and her backstory

06.00: Beth’s first encounter with Spanish wine - San Sebastian

08.00: Must visit sherry bar in Madrid: La Venecia

10.30: Txakoli: What is it and how does it taste?

12.00: The three regions of Txakoli and the different styles

13.00: The annual coastline swim from Getaria to Zarautz

18.00: Hondarrabi Zuri - the grape variety of Txakoli

21.00  The Biezo wine region

25.30: Climatic Influences from Castilla y León V over the border in Galicia affecting the style of Mencia

26.30: The 2017 classification system in Bierzo, to highlight terroir

30.30: Producers to look out for: Alvaro Palacios, Raul Perez, Verónica Ortega, Gregory Perez, Banzao, Michelini i Mufatto

33.30: Mencia is not always 100% Mencia due to field blends/old vines

38.00: The Mencia Grape - profile, tasting notes

44.30: The agebility of Mencia and Godello

47.00: The white grapes of Bierzo

48.00: Beths’ Bierzo wine report published on Tim Atkin’s website

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

In this episode, I have just returned from an incredible long weekend in the Languedoc wine region, and I'm thrilled to share all the highlights with you. Whether you're a wine aficionado, a foodie, a nature enthusiast, a hiker, or simply someone seeking peace and tranquility, the Languedoc region has something special to offer.

Join me as I recount my adventures across the three captivating sub-regions of Limoux, Corbières, and Minervois. With countless activities and accommodations to choose from, I've done the research and gathered insights from locals to make it super easy for you to plan your own trip.

For those who can't make it to the south of France just yet, I’ll be offering valuable tips on which Languedoc wines to look for and why they deserve a spot on your wine rack. We'll delve into the history and significance of the Mauzac grape, explore the world's first-ever sparkling wine, Blanquette de Limoux, and introduce you to two remarkable crus: La Livinière and Boutenac.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

1.55: The bulk history of the Languedoc

3.01: Location of the Languedoc

4.10: What to expect on your visit

6.25: Bush Vines V Goblet Vines: The difference

8.39: Visiting Carcassone

9.33: Visiting Domaine Gayda

12.11: AOC Malpere

12.58: The first Cru of the Languedoc: La Livinière

13.53: The wines: Villa Mon Reve, La Petite Villa, Chemin de Moscou, Altre Cami, Figure Libre Rouge & Blanc

17.45: Visting Mirepoix

18.18: Visiting Saint Hilaire Abbey: The birthplace of Sparkling wine

19.57: Blanquette de Limoux Methode Ancestral

20.32: Blanquette de Limoux

21.08: Crement de Limoux

22.12: Visiting Chateau Ollieux Romanis

25.36: The Cru Boutenac

28.48: The wines: Atal Sia, Cuvee OR, White Prestigue

32.28: Visiting Lagrasse

34.17: Visiting Chateau Maris

35.19: Deeper understanding of environmental sustainability

37.41: The wines: Brama, Les Anciens, La Touge, Les Planels

40:55: Visiting Minerve

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello, wine friends! Welcome back to part two with the incredible wine presenter, Tom Surgey. If you caught part one, you already know why he’s a master at talking about wine. In our previous episode, we delved into the Bairrada wine region, but today, we're shifting our focus just east to the Dão region.

Dão, with its higher altitudes and elevations, produces wines that are elegant, perfumed, and full of finesse—perfect for gastronomy. We’ll explore how beautifully Touriga Nacional and the white grape variety Encruzado thrive in this region.

Get ready to dive deeper into the Dão wine region and join us as Tom walks us through his new wine book, “How to Drink Wine” (due out 29th August). We’ll focus on the food pairing section, where Tom will share his insights on pairing Dão wines with various dishes.

You can pre order it now HERE

However, Tom’s book isn’t just about pairings or wine history. It also covers practical topics like restaurant markups, wine shop pricing, and tips for buying the right wine. One intriguing topic we’ll cover is light strike - a wine fault that can significantly affect flavor. We’ll discuss what it is, how it happens, and how to avoid it.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.01: Toms’ trip to Dão in Portugal and his experience in the region

04.36: Francesinha - the portuguese must try sandwich

10.45: The main white grape: Encruzado

13.44: The main red grape: Touriga Nacional

16.42: The red grape variety Alfrocheiro - tannin profile, fruit yields and harvesting

18.00: Mencia (known here as Jaen) - flavour and aroma profiles

18.28: Winemakers thoughts on Tinta Roriz (aka Tempranillo)

22.15: Top producers like Carlos Lucas: Quinta do Ribero Santo

25.05: Wines from Quinta dos Roques

26.37: Portugal’s industry is still big on blends

30.04: Toms’’s new book  “How To Drink Wine” and how he would pair Dão wines with food

38.18: Discussing the cost of wine, duty,  and markups (all mentioned in detail in the book)

43.08: How UV light affects wines in direct sunlight - “Light strike”

46.15: Researching Light strike and performing experiments in different settings/environments

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back friends! Today, I'm delighted to host one of the UK's most dynamic and energetic wine presenters, Tom Surgey. You might recognize Tom from his work with the Three Wine Men, his regular appearances on ITV's Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh, or even ITV's This Morning.

Tom has just returned from an incredible trip to Portugal, and in this episode, we're diving into all things Bairrada. We'll explore the region's sparkling wines, the unique Baga grape, and the standout wineries that make Bairrada so special.

But that's not all! Tom will give us a sneak peek into his soon-to-be-released wine book (due out 29th August)

You can pre order it now HERE

We'll also discuss the annual vine cycle, focusing on the flowering stage currently happening in the Northern Hemisphere. Plus, Tom will share insights on some famous biodynamic wineries you might not know are practicing biodynamics. Stick around until the end as we reveal the correct way to open your sparkling wines and engage in a lively debate on the art of sabrage.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.51: Tom’s journey into wine

08.17: Working in English Wine

11.01: Tom’s travels to the Bairrada wine region, Portugal

18.38: Maria Gomes/Fernão Pires - “The Portuguese Riesling”

19.55: The Maria Gomes in Bairrada - profile, acidity, freshness

27.11: Discussing the winemaking approaches of Filipa Pato and Luis Pato

29.44: Bairrada and the use of early-picked fruit to grow natural yeast for wild ferments

33.14: Mario at Quinta das Bageiras - tasting Sparkling wines

36.15: The inspiration behind Tom’s upcoming book 

40.12: Hermaphroditic vines that self-pollinate; flowering is affected by wind and rain

43.08: Highlighting biodynamic producers globally, avoiding specific wine recommendations 

47.12: How to open a bottle of sparkling - the traditional method

49.25: Precautions and considerations for opening up sparkling wines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello, wine friends! Welcome back to part two with Doug Wregg, Director and Buyer at Les Caves de Pyrene. Doug, an authority in natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, having spent the last 30 years revolutionizing the UK's wine scene.

In this episode, we're diving into the wines of Oregon, a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest, nestled between California and Washington. 

Oregon is renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay, with two-thirds of its wines hailing from the famous Willamette Valley. We'll touch some of the region's AVAs within Willamette Valley alongside South Oregon's Umpqua Valley and Rogue Valley.

Join us as Doug takes us on a journey through Oregon's rich wine history and commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.22: The Oregon wine movement

06.01: The first vines planted in Oregon by Henderson Luelling

07.32: Prohibition in 1904 - a vanishing wine industry

12.22: The Pioneers: Charles Coury & David Lett 

15.59: Talking about The Beckham Estate, Creta Pinot Noir 2021,  Chehalem Mountains AVA £50.35 Les Caves De Pyrene

16.43: Andrew Beckham’s Novum Ceramics: the first commercial producer of terra cotta Amphorae for winemaking in North America

21.50: Tasting the Pinot Noir 

23.54: The different terroirs of Oregon, and the different styles of Pinot Noir

26.55: The wine scene in Portland

30.24: The focus on sustainability in Oregon including LIVE - The Low Input Viticulture & Enology program

32.22: Talking about and tasting The Kelley Fox Durant Vineyard Chardonnay 2022 - The Dundee Hills AVA £50.35 Les Caves de Pyrene

37.55: Purity and minerality in wine

40.41: Oregon Pricing and high quality

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back! Today we travel into the fascinating world of Orange Wine and Natural Wines. We're thrilled to have Doug Wregg, one of the directors and buyers at Les Caves de Pyrene, as our expert guest. With over 30 years of experience introducing natural, biodynamic, and orange wines to the UK market, Doug offers unparalleled insights into these unique wine styles.

Join us in today's episode as we barely scratch the surface of this complex and intriguing topic. Discover the ancient tradition of Qvevri winemaking and explore the rich wine heritage of Georgia. We'll also discuss the level of sulphites in wines, discuss minimal intervention practices, and reveal the best food pairings for orange wines. This episode is packed with valuable information and expert tips and is NOT to be missed!

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

01.40: Doug’s journey into wine

05.24: Les Caves De Pyrene 

09.04: What is Natural Wine?

11.30: The truth about the aging of Natural wines

16.02: Looking for the wines edges

17.50: The levels of sulphur to be considered natural

20.20: Orange/Amber wines - diving into skin contact wines

22.45 Opening up and discussing the first Orange wine - The Christian Binner Si Rose 19/20/21/22 £30.09 Les Caves de Pyrene

28.18: Aroma profile and tasting notes of the Christian Binner and use of Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer in orange wine

31.43: Best locations for Orange & Natural wines

36.35: Georgian wines - opening the Ramaz Nikoladze Solikouri 2022 Orange wine £25 Les Caves de Pyrene

37.27: Different styles or orange across the regions of Georgia and the Tsolikouri grape variety

44.07: Fermentation of wine in Qvevris (Clay pots) - a heritage protected by UNESCO

48.15: Opening up the Austrian Judith Beth Gewürztraminer 2023 £20.36 Les Caves de Pyrene

49.24: The focus of Biodynamic producers in the Burgenland, Austria

53.01: Food pairing with Orange wines

55.08: Advice on buying Orange wine

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back wine friends! Today, we're diving into La Place de Bordeaux, exploring its historic significance and the diverse wines it now includes, such as Opus One, Almaviva, and Seña. This episode perfectly follows my Bordeaux discussions with Jane Anson in episodes 182 about En Primeur wine futures and 183 about Bordeaux’s lesser know wine regions and grapes.

Joining us today is my dear friend Pauline Vicard, a stage two Master of Wine student and co-founder of Areni Global, a think tank dedicated to the future of fine wine. 

Tune in for an introduction into the world of fine wine from a financial and global trade perspective.

And if you are ready for the deep dive, check out Pauline’s seven part deep dive series on La Place de Bordeaux by clicking HERE.

She's is breaking down this intricate distribution system with insights from industry experts, including Ornellaia, Opus One, Max Lalondrelle (MD of Fine Wine at Berry Bros.), and Mathieu Chardonnier (President of Bordeaux Négociants CVBG).

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.21: Pauline’s journey into wine

06.22: Areni Global - a global think tank for fine wines

08.34: The evolution of fine wine and the La Place de Bordeaux system

11.09: The three tiers of La Place de Bordeaux

14.09: Different types of Courtiers and their roles

17.36: Differences between La Place & En Primeur

21.13: Selling through La Place & the global market

22.39: South Africa’s Klein Constantia Vin De Constance

24.30: Beyond Bordeaux - the wineries selling through La Place from around the world

26.33: Opus One

28.26: The 2004 Berlin tasting of Seña with Eduardo Chadwick

31.49: The future of La Place de Bordeaux

37.45: Branding and Brand development

43.59: Catena Zapata and Bodega Garzon

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Several weeks ago, I returned from an eye-opening wine field trip with the Old Vine Conference. This was my second time having the incredible opportunity to geek out and delve deeply into the fascinating world of vine soil, exploring the profound intrinsic link between wines and humanity.

If you missed that first episode on old vines go back to Episode 144 and that's where I'm talking about why old vines are so special: Their deeper root systems, their genetic adaptations and how they can really help us in the future.

In this episode I share the insights and experiences from this enlightening journey, diving deeper into the Monastrell variety, ungrafted vines and why both have done so well in the semi-arid wine growing region of Spain.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

3.38: The climate and terroir of Jumilla

7.39: The grapes of Jumilla and it’s old vines

10.00: Old vine Airén (Check out Ep 177 to hear more about Airén and other native white Spanish varieties)

11.11: Monastrell, the grape of Jumilla

12.54: Ungrafted bush vines and why phylloxera doesn’t like the soils of Jumilla

15.38: Threats to the old vines

16.43: Bodegas Olivares and their Dulce Monastrell

18.56: Recommended wines/wineries:

19.09: Gil Family Estates, Juan Gil Etiqueta Azul

19.50: Bodegas Carchelo, Muri Veteres Pie Franco

20.15: Bodegas BSI, Gemina Pie Franco, the Finca El Volcan

21.09: Bodega Cerrón wines

22.30: Why Monastrell grows so well in Jumilla

23.45: Visiting Viña Elena

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello wine friends, and welcome back to park two on Bordeaux, lead by my knowledgeable guest Jane Anson, a renowned wine writer and journalist known for her expertise in Bordeaux wines. Jane has authored several comprehensive books, and if you haven't picked up 'Inside Bordeaux' yet, it’s the ultimate guide you’ve been searching for.

In this episode, we will discuss the Bordeaux pirates. Jane Anson will enlighten us on the innovative sustainability and environmental practices being adopted by Bordeaux wineries. With the global rise of natural and organic winemaking movements, she will address how Bordeaux is responding to these trends and highlight the standout producers pioneering these approaches. We will also delve into smaller family-owned wineries producing exceptional wines that deserve our attention.

Additionally, we will explore some of the lesser-known grape varieties in Bordeaux that are re-emerging. Jane will share her favorite lesser-known Bordeaux subregions and appellations producing exceptional wines. This episode is filled with insider secrets you won't want to miss.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

 2.26: The emerging trends in Bordeaux: Organic winemaking

4.04: The Bordeaux Pirates  - smaller independent producers

5.44: Discovering Château Picoron during En Primeur                         

7.19: The best value sub regions of Bordeaux

9.50: Jane’s maps of Bordeaux

15.13: Lesser Known grape varieties in Bordeaux

19.26: Agroforestry in Bordeaux

23.00: Focus towards organic viticulture

24.53: The pioneers in organics

26.39: Lesser celebrated vintages that are tasting well now

27.27: Smaller producers we should know about

30.11: A few recommended regions in Bordeaux to go and visit

To learn more from Jane and the happenings in Bordeaux, visit her website https://janeanson.com/

And use the code SAVE 10 for 10% off the first year subscription!

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello wine friends, and welcome to an exciting episode on Bordeaux! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Jane Anson, a renowned wine writer and journalist known for her expertise in Bordeaux wines. Jane has authored several comprehensive books, and if you haven't picked up 'Inside Bordeaux' yet, it’s the ultimate guide you’ve been searching for.

In this episode, we'll dive deep into the world of En Primeur, discussing what it is and why it's such a significant event in Bordeaux. We’ll explore key factors to consider when evaluating Bordeaux wines during En Primeur tastings, how the prices typically compare to the eventual release price, and how these factors can influence your purchasing decisions.

But there's more! We’ll also talk about Pétrus, one of Bordeaux's iconic wines, and its fascinating journey into space, exploring how this might affect the wines. Additionally, we'll take a look at the impressive wines being produced in China with Bordeaux varieties, focusing on the notable Ao Yun. Tune in for an enlightening discussion filled with insights and stories from the world of Bordeaux wines.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.22: Jane's journey into journalism and wine writing

05.37:  Influential industry figures - Adam Lechmere & Jean-Michel Cazes

09.15: The Bordeaux Mentor Week

13.46: Some of Jane's Books - “Inside Bordeaux”, “Bordeaux Legends”

17.14: An unusual tasting - a Pétrus 2000 in space.

23.01: Nicolas Gaume -  Wine and space tourism

24.06: Pétrus - why is this Château so famous

26.36: Blue Clay soils of Bordeaux

27.46: Ao Yun - The Chinese Bordeaux Blend

33.57: The significance of En Primeur (wine futures)

44.29: Tasting and rating En Primeur wines

48.09: The Chateaux pricing methods & considerations

52.35: The future of En Primeur

To learn more from Jane and the happenings in Bordeaux, visit her website https://janeanson.com/

And use the code SAVE 10 for 10% off the first year subscription!

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back to part two with Anne McHale, Master of Wine. In this episode, we shift our focus from Alsace to the Douro region in Portugal. Anne shares her memorable experience of treading grapes in the Douro, highlighting the historical significance of traditional foot treading in port wine production and comparing it to modern mechanical methods.

We'll explore the primary red grapes used in port production: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Tinta Cão, and Tinta Barroca. Additionally, we'll discuss the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the Douro, with its steep, vineyard-covered slopes visible (something we should all be experiencing from a cruise boat along the River Douro).

We dig deeper into the unique vineyard planting methods: the traditional stone-wall terraces called Socalcos, the 1980s earth-bank Patamares, and the vertical plantings known as Vinha ao Alto. And even the oldest stone walls, Pilheiros, believed to be 400 years old.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

2.45: The different techniques used to build the unique terraces of the Douro region

06.01: Treading grapes at Quinta do Vesuvio

10.55: The €500 per-person experience at Quinta do Vesuvio

11.44: Douro - A UNESCO World Heritage site

13.30: Advantages & disadvantages of Treading traditionally vs mechanically  

16.35: Best places for premium wines - Douro superior & Cima Corgo, and the climatic changes throughout region

17.40: Understanding these geographical concepts in preparation for the diploma questions

18.57: The schist and granite soils

20.45: Questions surrounding the Touriga Nacional variety - the D5 Fortified Exam and how to remember the descriptions of each grape variety in the typical blend

25.32: Anne’s experience staying in the Grahams’ Quinta - Quinta Dos Malvedos

26.20: Douro: The third oldest demarcated wine region in Europe

29.56: Syminton Family Estates

30.30: Wine Estate recommendations in the Douros

33.58: Three Therapy - a comprehensive guide on how to study for the Level 3 WSET

And don’t forget if you want to know more about Anne’s incredible Diplomatherapy you can click HERE to get weekly emails to help you with your diploma. Or if you want to explore more of what Anne has to offer Diploma related, click HERE.

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello, wine friends! In this episode, we journey into the Alsace wine region with the brilliant Anne Mchale, Master of Wine, and independent wine consultant and educator based in London. Anne's expertise spans across wine list design, corporate and private tastings, and innovative educational programs like her renowned course for WSET diploma students - Diplomatherapy 

Sign up here:

https://annemchale.com/diplomatherapy-2024-registration/

Or get email updates:

https://annemchale.com/diploma-emails/

We'll explore the unique terroir of Alsace, its Grand Cru sites, and compare Riesling's distinct style with other renowned wine regions. Anne shares insights from her recent trip, highlighting hidden gems like the Sylvaner grape, dubbed the Cinderella grape, and the region's exciting focus on Pinot Noir.

Anne also provides invaluable tips for those studying for the challenging D3 exam.

Don't miss Anne's recommendations for top Alsace producers and must-visit places. Plus, discover the fantastic Crémants d'Alsace, a great alternative to champagne. 

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

05.08: How learning to speech French allowed Anne to fall into the world of wine

09.56: A wine memory at Pontet-Canet in Bordeaux who focus on biodynamic viticulture

11.48: Alsacian winemakers working more organically and biodynamically due to climate

14.20: Diplomatherapy - Anne’s membership programme to help you pass your WSET diploma

16.45: How to answer a typical D3 question: “Describe the unique terroir of Alsace and how it influences the characteristics of the wines produced there”

18.32: The climate during growing season in Alsace, the diurnal range in Grand Crus, and the cool climate

21.51: The 4 noble grape varieties of Alsace and increased plantings of Pinot Noir 

24.37: The 51 Grand Crus, and the two to now permit Pinot Noir

26.45: Riesling in Alsace, compared to other regions and the change in labelling for dry Riesling

30.54: Common occurrence of petrol notes in aged Rieslings, and how they aren’t typical of Alsace 

33.15: Tasting a Vendange Tardive Gewürztraminer 1953

38.27: Traveling tips for going to Alsace

42.36: Sylvaner -”The Cinderella Grape”

44.45: The Alsace Cru Terroir group and recommended producers to try

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back to part 2 where we continue our discussion with Marc Hochar from the iconic Chateau Musar. In this episode, we shift our focus to the intriguing world of Chateau Musar's white wines. Marc enlightens us on the ancient grape varieties, Obaideh and Merwah, which form the backbone of these exceptional wines.

Join us as we uncover the secrets behind the longevity of Chateau Musar's whites. From discussing the optimal drinking window to cracking open a bottle of the exquisite 2017 Chateau Musar White, there's plenty to discover and savor.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.17: Diving deeper into the aging of wines

04.11: Chateau Musar reds of the 1950s

11.57: Experience with Blends and blind tasting

14.30: Opening the Chateau Musar white 2017 £36 The Wine Society £36.20 Vinvm