Unreserved Wine Talk

309: The Surprising Health Benefits of Wine with Tony Edwards, Author of The Very Good News About Wine Oct 30, 2024

Have the health risks of moderate wine consumption been grossly overstated? How does moderate wine consumption reduce heart disease? What is the ideal amount and pattern of wine consumption for maximum health benefits, and how does it differ between men and women?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Tony Edwards.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of his terrific new book, The Very Good News About Wine. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you’ve posted a review of the podcast. I’ll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Tony’s experience as a BBC producer and a medical columnist shape his approach to researching and writing about wine?

Why does Tony believe the glycemic index is more accurate than the calorie theory for measuring food values?

What impact does alcohol have on your insulin response?

What does research show about the benefits of dry wine for diabetics?

What motivated Tony to revisit the topic of alcohol and health a decade after his first book, The Good News About Booze?

Which aspects of synthesizing decades of research on wine and health did Tony find most challenging?

Why was wine prescribed in UK hospitals and by physicians during the Prohibition era in North America?

What is the ideal amount and pattern of wine consumption for maximum health benefits?

How does the J-curve demonstrate the extent of the health benefits of wine for heart health and diabetes?

Does the alcohol in wine influence its health benefits?

What are the health implications of non-alcoholic wines compared to moderate consumption of regular wine?

Key Takeaways

Tony explains that the alcohol consumption guidelines are completely the inverse of what the evidence says. He wondered why the guidelines were being reduced to a level that actually no one benefits from moderate wine consumption. Study after study shows wine is really good news.

Tony observes that it’s actually the collection of polyphenols in wine that have the beneficial effect rather than simply resveratrol alone. It's the interaction of these polyphenols with each other that produces a benefit.

Tony notes that a study in 2018 came to the conclusion that for men, the maximum optimum intake of wine per day was 60 grams, which is about two-thirds of the bottle, and for women, half that.

About Tony Edwards

Former BBC science documentary producer/director/writer. Now specializing in medical research journalism, Tony Edwards is a former BBC TV producer/ director/ writer, with over 80 science documentaries to his credit, some winning awards from such bodies as the British Medical Association. After the BBC, he wrote on science, technology and medicine for The Sunday Times, Readers Digest, Daily Mail and a wide variety of medical magazines. He is married to the broadcaster and novelist Debbie Rix; they have two grown-up children, three hens and four cats, and live in rural Kent.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/309.

308: Defining Minerality, Mouthfeel and Musty Aromas with Gus Zhu Oct 23, 2024

Why do certain musty or animalistic aromas, like barnyard or manure, become more acceptable to wine lovers over time? What does minerality really mean when it comes to wine? Why is mouthfeel so important to appreciating wine? How does the colour of wine influence our perception of how it tastes?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Master of Wine, Gus Zhu.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you will a copy of his terrific new book, Behind the Glass: The Chemical and Sensorial Terroir of Wine Tasting.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you’ve posted a review of the podcast. I’ll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Why do certain musty or animalistic aromas, like barnyard or manure, become more acceptable to wine lovers over time?

What’s behind the perception of saltiness and minerality in wine?

How do we misunderstand sweetness when it comes to wine?

Why have we developed more complex perceptions of bitterness, and how does it influence our experience of tannins in wine?

Why is mouthfeel so important in wine tasting?

How does colour affect our perception of wine?

What are the most interesting aspects of oak aging in wine, and why is there so much diversity?

Why is it important to embrace sensory differences in wine tasting?

Key Takeaways

Gus believes that the wine industry or even the media is trying to promote a certain style of wine and make people believe that many people love wines that have specific smells and taste like barnyard.

Gus observes that acidity and minerality are such vague terms and concepts that people in the wine industry discuss. When people say minerality, they may be referring to many different things.

Mouthfeel adds several other dimensions to taste, which makes wine tasting even more interesting. When blind tasting, many people depend on smell but he encourages them to pay attention to the textual, tactile sensations from the wine as well.

People usually look at the color first because it's straightforward, even though we could see colours a bit differently from each other. Even though we want to be objective, we cannot. We could be even more biased when we see things first. For example, there are already studies showing that if you color white wine as a red wine colour, and ask people to smell it, they came up with all these descriptors that are related to red wines.

About Gus Zhu

Gus Zhu is the first Chinese national to become a Master of Wine. He works as a research and development scientist at Harv 81 Group, specializing in chemical analysis and sensory studies of aroma compounds in wine, cork, and oak. Gus holds a Master of Science degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis, which he earned in 2017, and achieved his MW qualification in 2019. In addition to his research in flavor chemistry and sensory science, Gus is a professional wine educator, offering tutorials to wine enthusiasts around the world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/308.

307: Umami, Petrol and Vegetal Aromas Behind the Glass in the Chemical and Sensorial Terroir of Wine Tasting with Gus Zhu Oct 16, 2024

Can you learn to appreciate aromas such as spice, petrol, and even gamey or foxy notes in wine? And would you want to, or should you? How can you better understand the taste of umami in what you eat and drink? How do culture and lifestyle influence your perception of the aromas and taste of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Master of Wine, Gus Zhu.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was the moment Gus realized he wanted to make wine his career?

How did it feel to become the first Chinese Master of Wine (MW)?

Which aspects of Gus’ multicultural education helped him pass his MW exam on the first try?

What is Gus’ book, Behind the Glass, about?

What makes Behind the Glass different from other books on wine science?

What are chemical terroir and sensorial terroir?

What was the most surprising thing Gus learned while researching and writing Behind the Glass?

Why is the concept of the “tongue map” wrong, and what do we now know about how our tastebuds work?

How can you better understand the taste of umami?

Can you learn to appreciate vegetal and herbal aromas in wine?

How do terpenes present in wine aromas, and why do people like them?

Why might supertasters be at a disadvantage in the modern world?

How do culture and lifestyle influence your perception of the aromas and taste of wine?

Key Takeaways

As Gus explains, we evolved to reject certain smells for our survival. For example, if a plant or fruit or food smells vegetal, it's a sign of under ripeness so it either doesn’t taste good or isn’t nutritious enough for consumption. In some cases, it could mean that it’s poisonous. So it makes sense then that we may not like vegetal aromas in wine.

In Asian countries, Gus says, they have a longer history with fermented food and drink. They also don’t over season or over cook protein dishes so that the taste of umami remains. Umami comes from the amino acids in protein, but we often get confused because we combine our proteins with fat, salt, and other things. If you barbecue a mushroom and don’t season it, the juice or broth released in the little dent in the mushroom is a savory, yummy, umami taste.

Gus believes that we should pay more attention to what we eat and drink. He believes that people who like the Chinese experience a more diverse range of flavours and develop a greater appreciation for them. Similarly, we develop a greater vocabulary to express what we’re eating and drinking when we think about it.

About Gus Zhu

Gus Zhu is the first Chinese national to become a Master of Wine. He works as a research and development scientist at Harv 81 Group, specializing in chemical analysis and sensory studies of aroma compounds in wine, cork, and oak. Gus holds a Master of Science degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis, which he earned in 2017, and achieved his MW qualification in 2019. In addition to his research in flavor chemistry and sensory science, Gus is a professional wine educator, offering tutorials to wine enthusiasts around the world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/307.

306: Wine and Folklore Share Terroir and Storytelling with Jo Penn Author of Blood Vintage Oct 09, 2024

How far would you go for that first evocative taste of an elusive wine? Why should you try wines and books outside your comfort zone? How is folklore as rooted in a sense of place as much as wine is?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jo Penn.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What’s the significance of terroir and what are the parallels with a writer’s voice?

How did Jo make sure to capture the sensory details when writing Blood Vintage?

Why does Jo recommend watching the TV show Drops of God?

How did Jo weave folklore and pagan rituals into Blood Vintage?

What is the genre of "folk horror,” and how does it differ from traditional horror?

What was the most difficult part off writing Blood Vintage?

Why did Jo decide to launch Blood Vintage through Kickstarter?

If Jo could share a bottle of wine with anyone, who would it be, and what wine would they open?

Why should you try wines outside your comfort zone?

Key Takeaways

As Jo asks, what will we do for that one more taste, especially of your first great wine that turned you on to wine? Some people spend their lives and fortunes chasing after certain tastes, which is why they get suckered into buying fake bottles for hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s a thin, blurry line between obsession and addiction. Sometimes, it’s not simply the taste that compels us; it’s also the experience of recapturing another time, perhaps with a friend or loved one.

Jo is an advocate of encouraging people to try different kinds of wine, without being intimidated by the descriptions that some of us wine writers can use when we get carried away with esoteric or florid prose. Rein it in, Nat! Visiting smaller vineyards is an excellent way to try new wines and to support local winemakers. My advice is parallel to Jo’s when it comes to books. Try something outside your reading genre once in a while. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed her folk horror novel. It expanded my literary taste buds.

Jo explains that folklore includes the traditional beliefs, rituals and superstitions connected to a certain area. It's rooted in the community and very much terroir-based, like wine. For example, in her area of England they have the Green Man which is the face of a fertility god covered in vine leaves. It appears in a lot of their cathedrals with the odd juxtaposition of Christianity and ancient fertility god. What connects them is the place.

About Jo Penn

Jo Penn is an award-winning New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of horror, thrillers, dark fantasy, crime, travel memoirs, and short stories. She’s also an award-winning podcaster. She has a Master's in Theology from the University of Oxford. Her latest novel is Blood Vintage, a folk horror story set in an English vineyard.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/306.

305: Blending Biodynamics and Suspense with Jo Penn Author of Blood Vintage Oct 02, 2024

Why is biodynamic viticulture sometimes associated with dark magic or the occult? Why is using wine in religious rituals as a sacrament considered normal for many people, but taking it beyond that is not? Why are wines from England becoming increasingly popular?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jo Penn, the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, about her latest novel, Blood Vintage, set in an English vineyard.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What were the most memorable aspects of the Pinot Noir tours Jo attended in South Otago while living in New Zealand?

Which New Zealand foods pair best with their Pinot Noirs?

What is Jo’s new book, Blood Vintage, about?

Which wines would Jo and I pair with Blood Vintage?

How did Jo find the inspiration for writing Blood Vintage?

What’s behind the rise of English wines?

How did a high school performance of Euripides' "The Bacchae" influence Jo’s writing of Blood Vintage?

What are some of the ways that people can get injured or die working in a vineyard?

What did Jo learn about biodynamic winemaking from visiting Limeburn Hill Vineyard?

Why is biodynamic winemaking sometimes associated with the occult?

How might you experience the differences between the taste of a biodynamic wine versus a conventionally produced wine?

What was the most surprising thing Jo learned about winemaking while writing Blood Vintage?

Key Takeaways

Jo shares her experience visiting a biodynamic vineyard, where various preparations were made from animal stomachs, intestines, and skulls, as well as plants like Yarrow and chamomile. Some people hear about these practices and think they’re strange. Others view the vineyard as an ecosystem where they’re trying to infuse a sense of place into every single drop of the wine.

In both Christianity and Judaism, but taking it further to a different plane of consciousness, like some of the ancient Celtic celebrations tied to nature and fertility she explores in the book, is often considered outside the norm.

Climate change has made the south of England similar to the Champagne region in France in terms of the warmth needed to ripen grapes. The UK now produces about 8 to 10 million bottles annually from 800 vineyards. English sparkling wines are winning the awards, and in many blind tastings, they're often placing ahead of French bibblies. Champagne producers are also buying English vineyards.

About Jo Penn

Jo Penn is an award-winning New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of horror, thrillers, dark fantasy, crime, travel memoirs, and short stories. She’s also an award-winning podcaster. She has a Master's in Theology from the University of Oxford. Her latest novel is Blood Vintage, a folk horror story set in an English vineyard.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/305.

304: Rioja Wines Blend the Past and Present with Adam Lechmere Sep 25, 2024

How has Rioja's famous architecture impacted tourism and the international perception of Rioja wines? How does Rioja wine style change in a vintage characterized as an Atlantic year versus a Mediterranean year? How did oak aging become so fundamental to the identity of Rioja wines? What’s driving the resurgence of traditional aging methods, such as concrete tanks?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Adam Lechmere, editor of The Smart Traveler's Wine Guide to Rioja, among other books in this series.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you will win a copy of his terrific new book, Rioja: The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide.

To qualify, email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know you've posted a podcast review. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Where did the Rioja focus on oak aging develop?

How do the characteristics imparted by American versus French oak differ?

What do you need to know about the classifications and label regulations for Rioja wine?

What’s driving the resurgence of older aging methods, such as concrete tanks?

How can you differentiate between French Grenache and Spanish Garnacha?

What are some of the key distinguishing characteristics between Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon?

What makes a great vintage in Rioja?

How has Rioja's famous architecture impacted tourism and the international perception of Rioja wines?

Which changes does Adam see coming in Rioja's future?

Key Takeaways

Rioja wines are categorized according to the time they spend aging in oak barrels. American oak is particularly well suited for the country’s flagship red grape, Tempranillo, because it has a slightly wider grain than French oak, so it imparts more flavors.

The resurgence of traditional aging methods, such as concrete tanks, has been driven by changing global trends in wine styles. It's also that Rioja winemakers are forward-looking in their experimentation because they're such pioneers.

You'll find more opulence and generosity in a Mediterranean year, whereas Atlantic-influenced years are more precise and slightly less opulent.

Rioja's architecture has been so famous for so long that it’s hard to know whether tourists visit primarily because of the architecture or the wine.

About Adam Lechmere

Adam Lechmere is the publishing director of Academie du Vin Library, contributing editor to Club Oenologique, and general manager of the Academie du Vin Foundation, a charity dedicated to improving diversity in wine and hospitality worldwide.

Formerly editor of Decanter.com, which he launched in 2000, he has been writing about wine for 25 years, contributing to Decanter, World of Fine Wine, Meininger’s, janeanson.com, the Guardian and other publications; at the end of 2018, he launched Club Oenologique.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/304.

303: Rioja's Magical Wine, Medieval History and Modern Architecture with Adam Lechmere, The Smart Traveler's Wine Guide Sep 18, 2024

What makes the Rioja region of Spain a must-visit destination for wine lovers? What are the best food pairings for Rioja wines? What’s the sticky history behind the Battle of Wine festival in La Rioja?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Adam Lechmere, editor of The Smart Traveler's Wine Guide to Rioja, among other books in this series.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you will win a copy of the terrific new book, The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to Rioja, written by Fintan Kerr and edited by our guest Adam Lechemere.

To qualify, email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know you've posted a podcast review. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was it like to interview the famous movie director and winery owner Francis Ford Coppola?

Are there parallels between the worlds of wine and film?

Why did documentary filmmaker Jonathan Nossiter walk out of his interview with Adam?

Why was Adam banned twice from Château Latour?

What surprising insight did Adam learn while editing The Smart Traveller's Wine Guide to Rioja?

How is The Smart Traveler's Wine Guide written especially for wine-interested tourists?

What's the biggest misconception people have about Rioja and its wines?

Where is Rioja geographically located?

What are some of the culinary traditions you can enjoy in Logroño, the capital of La Rioja?

Which Rioja and tapas pairings should you try?

What’s the history behind the Battle of Wine and El Barrio de la Estación de Haro?

Key Takeaways

What they do so brilliantly in Rioja is combine traditional winemaking and outstanding wines with ultra-modern, avant-garde buildings often next door to ancient, gorgeous medieval churches.

Lamb and Rioja is a brilliant combination, according to Adam and I agree. The rule of thumb for any wine region is to pair it with the food that's made in the region. What grows together, goes together.

When you have lots of anything that is also your livelihood, you celebrate it. The Battle of Wine festival is a series of processions that begins about a week before on the 23rd of June, and it culminates with everybody going up onto the hill to what they call the temple. Like a lot of these festivals, it goes back into the mists of time and people don't know exactly how it started.

About Adam Lechmere

Adam Lechmere is the publishing director of Academie du Vin Library, contributing editor to Club Oenologique, and general manager of the Academie du Vin Foundation, a charity dedicated to improving diversity in wine and hospitality worldwide.

Formerly editor of Decanter.com, which he launched in 2000, he has been writing about wine for 25 years, contributing to Decanter, World of Fine Wine, Meininger’s, janeanson.com, the Guardian and other publications; at the end of 2018, he launched Club Oenologique.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/303.

302: The Rise of Southwestern Ontario Wines with Martin Janz, Winemaker at Pelee Island Winery Sep 11, 2024

Why is winemaking always a challenge, no matter how long you’ve been doing it? How are wind machines used to mitigate the negative impact of cold weather? How does Pelee Island’s biodiversity influence the brand and winery? Why is it important for winemakers to respect the natural environment?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Martin Janz, the chief winemaker at Pelee Island Winery in Southwestern Ontario.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will each win a fabulous bottle of LOLA Light Rosé from Pelee Island Winery.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Martin realize he wanted to become a winemaker?

What was it like growing up in the family winery and getting involved from a young age?

Why did Martin decide to join Pelee Island Winery in Canada, and what has kept him there for 30 years? How does Martin challenge himself as a winemaker after 30 years at Pelee Island Winery?

What happens if you don’t take the top off of a steel tank when filtering wine?

Why is Pelee Island often overlooked as a wine region when people think about Ontario wines?

How does the relatively warmer climate on Pelee Island impact the type and quality of wines produced?

Does Pelee Island Winery utilize special strategies to mitigate the cold impact in the winter?

How do the the flora and fauna feature on Pelee Island wines?

Why it is important for winemakers to respect the natural environment?

How did Martin pack so much flavour into Pelee Island Winery LOLA Light Rosé despite it having low alcohol content?

Which grapes are blended into LOLA Light Rosé and which foods would pair well with it?

What are Martin's top two tips for visitors to Pelee Island and other local wineries?

If Martin could share a bottle of wine with anyone, why would he choose Anthony Bourdain and which wine would he choose?

Key Takeaways

If you make wine, every year is a challenge. He doesn’t want to follow the same recipe every year to get the exact same product. Every year is a little bit different.

Wind machines take the cold air off the floor of the vineyard and then bring in warm air because hot air rises and can actually raise the temperature by two to three degrees.

Pelee Island’s labels feature local flora and fauna, reflecting it's rich and unique biodiversity.

As a winemaker, Martin believes that it should be an automatic response to respect nature. That’s why they don’t use synthetic insecticides and pesticides.

About Martin Janz

Born in Germany, Martin Janz is the esteemed winemaker at Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc., where he combines tradition with innovation to craft exceptional wines. Martin's approach to winemaking is rooted in a profound respect for the terroir of Pelee Island, allowing the unique characteristics of the region's grapes to shine through in every bottle.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/302.

301: How Alcohol Fuels Innovation and Group Cohesion with Edward Slingerland Sep 04, 2024

What is the connection between alcohol and innovation? How does alcohol help enhance trust and cooperation? Why is it important not to think about alcohol consumption through a medical lens alone?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I’m chatting with Edward Slingerland, a professor of philosophy at the University of British Columbia and the author of Drunk: How We Sipped, Danced, and Stumbled Our Way to Civilization.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a bottle of Gary Farrell wine.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What’s Edward's take on the quote attributed to Ernest Hemingway about writing drunk and editing sober?

How did Edward use this strategy when writing the book proposal for "Drunk"?

What role did alcohol play in Edward’s first lecture as a graduate student?

How did the first pub on the University of British Columbia campus lead to a major research collaboration on the evolution of religion?

What is the "Ballmer Peak," and how does it relate to alcohol and creativity?

How does alcohol help enhance trust and cooperation in large-scale societies?

Why did problem drinking increase significantly during the pandemic?

What was the most surprising insight Edward discovered while writing "Drunk"?

Why is it inadequate to look at alcohol consumption through a medical lens alone?

What are the three objects Edward would include in a museum exhibit about himself?

Who would Edward most want to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

What is the connection between alcohol and innovation? It’s a double effect in enhancing individual creativity and reducing inhibitions.

Alcohol also enhances group creativity because individual members are more creative. They’re also less nervous about saying something that your prefrontal cortex would judge as not worthy when perhaps it’s a great idea.

We have to recognize both the dangers and the benefits of alcohol to make intelligent decisions about how to use it.

About Edward Slingerland

Edward Slingerland is a Distinguished University Scholar and Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia, where he also holds appointments in the Departments of Psychology and Asian Studies. He is also Director of the Database of Religious History. Dr. Slingerland is the author of several academic monographs and edited volumes, a major translation of the Analects of Confucius, and approximately fifty book chapters, reviews, and articles in top academic journals in a wide range of fields.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/301.

300: How Wine Fosters Creativity, Trust and Sociability with Edward Slingerland, Author of Drunk: How We Sipped, Danced, and Stumbled Our Way to Civilization Aug 28, 2024

How does alcohol, especially wine, foster our creativity, trustingness, and sociability? What does the “beer before bread” hypothesis suggest about alcohol's role in the development of civilization? Should there be different minimum drinking ages for wine and beer versus spirits?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Edward Slingerland, a professor of philosophy at the University of British Columbia and the author of Drunk: How We Sipped, Danced, and Stumbled Our Way to Civilization.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a bottle of Gary Farrell wine.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What drew Edward to study the history of drunkenness?

What does the “beer before bread” hypothesis suggest about how our desire to drink alcohol led to civilization?

Why was ancient beer production so costly?

What is the "Asian flushing syndrome" and why does Edward think it developed?

Why does Edward consider the prefrontal cortex to be the enemy of creativity?

How have we removed the inherent safety features of alcohol over thousands of years of evolution?

Should there be different minimum drinking ages for wine/beer versus spirits?

What makes wine the king of intoxicants?

How does alcohol affect the prefrontal cortex?

When does creativity peak relative to blood alcohol content?

Key Takeaways

Edward observes that alcohol stimulates the pro-social chemicals in our body, like serotonin and endorphin, that make us feel expansive and kind of feel good about ourselves and more kindly disposed toward other people. One of the brain regions that it quiets is the prefrontal cortex.

The traditional story is that alcohol is a result of an evolutionary or historical accident. But since then, archeologists believe that maybe the story was the other way around. The draw for hunter-gatherers to settle down and cultivate crops was not bread. It was beer. This is the so-called beer before bread hypothesis.

Edward observes that once distilled liquors became available on a large scale, the dangers of alcohol in the super potent form became greater because it can overwhelm our system and you can go from being sober to being really dangerously drunk in 10 or 15 minutes. Edward doesn’t think people should be allowed to drink distilled liquor until well into their 20s.

About Edward Slingerland

Edward Slingerland is a Distinguished University Scholar and Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia, where he also holds appointments in the Departments of Psychology and Asian Studies. He is also Director of the Database of Religious History. Dr. Slingerland is the author of several academic monographs and edited volumes, a major translation of the Analects of Confucius, and approximately fifty book chapters, reviews, and articles in top academic journals in a wide range of fields.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/300.

299: Beyond Eurocentric Wine and Food Pairings + Sonoma's Hidden Gems with Winemaker Theresa Heredia Aug 21, 2024

Why should you look beyond Eurocentric wine and food pairings? What’s so special about making vineyard-designated wines? How can you get the most out of your next trip to Sonoma County?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with superstar winemaker Theresa Heredia who has worked for some of California’s most prestigious wineries.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a bottle of Gary Farrell wine.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What’s the difference between making vineyard-designated wines versus blends?

What flavours and aromas are imparted by including ripened stems in the fermentation process?

How many different types of soil are found in Sonoma County and how did this diversity develop?

How do microclimates differ across the wine neighbourhoods of the Russian River Valley and what is their influence on the wine’s characteristics?

What makes Chardonnay more of a “survivor” grape compared to other varieties?

What are some of the challenges that sustain the low level of diversity in the male-dominated wine industry?

How has being a gay woman impacted Theresa’s experience in the wine industry?

What can wineries do to be more inclusive towards the LGBTQ community?

What are Theresa’s top tips for your next visit to Sonoma County and the Gary Farrell winery?

What can you expect from Gary Farrell Wines Hallberg Vineyard Pinot Noir and Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir and how do they differ?

Why should we expand beyond some of the traditional Eurocentric wine and food pairings?

Key Takeaways

Eurocentric pairings don’t account for cultural and socioeconomic differences. We have to flip a switch in our brains to think of different descriptors and different food pairings that are more relevant to people from different cultural backgrounds.

Theresa loves making vineyard-designated wines because they each have unique characteristics. Some of them produce dark fruit, like Colberg and McDonald Mountain, versus an inland vineyard called the Middle Reach. Acid is there. It's a defining characteristic, but it's not quite as prominent as in those cooler climates.

Theresa advises getting out to Sonoma County restaurants. She also says to avoid booking too many tastings, perhaps just two or three in a day. Choose a well-known winery and one that's off the beaten path.

About Theresa Heredia

Theresa Heredia started her career at Saintsbury and has also worked at Joseph Phelps Vineyards and Domaine de Montille in France. She became Winemaker at Gary Farrell Winery in 2012 and achieved critical acclaim for her wines. At Gary Farrell, she developed strong relationships with some of the most prominent vineyards in California. She was twice nominated as Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast and has received numerous other accolades.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/299.

298: Unrivaled Russian River Pinot Noir and Sonoma Wines with Theresa Heredia of Gary Farrell Winery Aug 14, 2024

Does harvesting wine based on the biodynamic calendar make sense? What about actually drinking the wine based on the lunar cycle? How does fog play a profound role in growing grapes and winemaking in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma, California? Why do some winemakers add Mega Purple to wine, and what the heck is Mega Purple?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with superstar winemaker Theresa Heredia who has worked for some of California’s most prestigious wineries.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a bottle of Gary Farrell wine.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was the "aha moment" in her wine career that Theresa experienced during a trip to France?

Which aspects of Pinot Noir and Châteauneuf-du-Pape captured Theresa’s interest?

How did finding the intersection between chemistry and wine change the trajectory of Theresa’s career?

How did Theresa get through the double heat waves of 2010 - the most challenging year of her wine career?

Which viral moment has been the highlight of Theresa’s wine career so far?

What was it like to work at a new vineyard as a new experimental winemaker?

How often does Theresa taste the grapes as they ripen in the vineyard and the wine as it ages in the barrel?

What are “Jesus units” in winemaking?

What’s Theresa's opinion on Mega Purple, and why is it used in winemaking?

What can you expect from a visit to the Gary Farrell winery and tasting room?

How did Theresa approach making the wines her own over the years at Gary Farrell Winery?

What makes the Russian River Valley AVA unique in Sonoma?

How does fog influence the development of grapes in a vineyard?

Key Takeaways

The lunar cycle is correlated to gravitational forces. So if you pick on a root day, the theory is that you're not going to capture as much of the aromatics as you would on a fruit day when the gravitational forces are the weakest.

The fog and diurnal temperature shifts help preserve acidity and color development in the grapes. It can get up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime, but at night, the grapes cool down to fog temperature, which is about 50-55 degrees. So you get that big swing in temperatures called a diurnal shift.

Mega Purple is highly concentrated grape juice made from Rubired grapes. Winemakers use Mega Purple to add color, body and texture, and make bigger, bolder wines.

About Theresa Heredia

Theresa Heredia started her career at Saintsbury and has also worked at Joseph Phelps Vineyards and Domaine de Montille in France. She became Winemaker at Gary Farrell Winery in 2012 and achieved critical acclaim for her wines. At Gary Farrell, she developed strong relationships with some of the most prominent vineyards in California. She was twice nominated as Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast and has received numerous other accolades.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/298.

297: Glorious Ontario Wines and the Stubborn, Pathological Optimists Who Make Them with Matthew Gaughan Aug 07, 2024

Why do Ontario winemakers need to be exceptionally unreasonable, stubborn, and pathological optimists? Which Ontario wines should you try next, other than Icewine? Why should Ontario be at the top of your list of wine regions to visit?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Matthew Gaughan on Matthew's World of Wine and Drink.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Where is Ontario located, and what are the major wine regions within the province?

What is the Ontario wine growing season like?

When were Ontario’s first wineries established, and how has the industry developed since?

What is the history of Icewine in Canada, and how is it made?

Which notable Ontario white wine varieties should you try?

How do Ontario Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc compare to other regions?

Which unforgettable red wine varieties produced in Ontario should you try?

What should you know about the sparkling wine scene in Ontario?

How much of Canadian wine is exported, and what are some of the challenges faced by the industry?

How is wine sold and consumed in Canada?

What are some of the must-try experiences when visiting Ontario wine regions?

How do Canadian wine producers promote their wines abroad?

Key Takeaways

Why do Ontario winemakers need to be exceptionally unreasonable, stubborn, and pathological optimists? They need to brave our climate because humid summers can cause rot and mildew, rain right before the grapes are harvested, which, of course, can dilute the flavour, and then winters that can kill the vines. As one winemaker once told me, you can lose the whole field in an afternoon—a whole year’s work.

Which Ontario wines should you try next, other than Icewine? Riesling is the number one white grape variety in Ontario, and it’s really undervalued. Everybody knows Chardonnay as a brand name and feels safer with It, but once they try Riesling, they realize how much flavour they’ve been missing.

Why should Ontario be at the top of your list of wine regions to visit? First, it has stunning scenery and landscapes. Many wineries have restaurants so they offer delicious pairing menus. There are lots of other activities to do as well.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Matthew Gaughan & Matthew's World of Wine and Drink

As a WSET-certified educator, Matthew Gaughan regularly teaches students to prepare them for exams. His podcast, Matthew's World of Wine and Drink, features episodes focusing on specific topics—grape varieties, regions—to help in that preparation and provide historical and cultural context.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/297.

296: Riesling's Big Personality and Germany's Hidden Wine Gems with Anne Krebiehl Jul 31, 2024

How do the soils of Germany change the expression of Riesling in your glass? What would surprise you about the size and of German wine production in relation to other leading wine-producing countries? How is climate change dramatically changing the way Germany cultivates vines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Anne Krebiehl.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a copy of Anne Krebiehl's terrific book, The Wines of Germany.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What is unique about the landscape of Germany’s wine regions?

Where does Germany rank globally in terms of volume of wine production?

Why is it difficult for Germany to compete with larger and more popular wine regions?

What makes Riesling so polarizing, and why does Anne love writing about it?

What does Anne mean by her description of wine as “transparent” or “crystalline”?

How do the different soils of Germany change the expression of Riesling in the glass?

What does it mean to be an aromatic, semi-aromatic or non-aromatic grape?

How is climate change impacting Germany's winegrowing ability?

Why is Anne obsessed with Pinot Noir?

Which other notable German grape varieties should you try?

What would Anne add to a new edition of Wines of Germany?

About Anne Krebiehl

Anne Krebiehl MW is a freelance wine writer and lecturer. She is the editor for Germany, Austria, Alsace and Grower Champagne for Vinous Media and publishes widely in trade and consumer publications. Her first book, The Wines of Germany, won Domaine Faiveley International Wine Book of The Year 2020 at the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards.

Bonus Interview - Ottawa Independent Writers | Writer's Workshop: Highlights

Mistake 5: Getting sued by friends, family and others for defamation, invasion of privacy or copyright infringement

What should you think about when writing the comp section – comparative titles – of your book proposal?

Which factors should you consider when deciding where to start your memoir?

About Ottawa Independent Writers

Ottawa Independent Writers (OIW) was formed in 1986 as a venue for people with a passion for creating fiction and non-fiction, for writing poetry and plays, and for stringing words together in a variety of other formats. OIW’s members are involved in every aspect of the printed and electronic word.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/296.

295: Untangling German Wine Styles, Laws and Mysteries with Anne Krebiehl, Author of The Wines of Germany Jul 24, 2024

Why has German beer been so much more successful marketing-wise than German wine in foreign markets, particularly in the U.K. and North America? How does German law make it complex to navigate the country’s wines for consumers? What is selective harvesting, and why is it fundamental to understanding German wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Anne Krebiehl.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a copy of Anne Krebiehl's terrific book, The Wines of Germany.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Simon and Garfunkel help Anne learn English?

What was Anne’s experience getting her first article published while working at Deutsche Bank?

What drew Anne to shift from food writing to wine writing?

Why did Anne want to work harvests around the world, and how did she convince wineries to let her join?

What is Central Otago, New Zealand like, and what was Anne’s most memorable moment from the harvest?

How do the landscapes of Piedmont, Italy, and Baden, Germany, differ from Central Otago?

What makes Anne’s book, The Wines of Germany, different from other books about German wine?

What is it about German wine law that can make it complex and confusing for consumers?

What is selective harvesting?

How did German wines become known to be sweet?

Why has German beer been so much more successful than German wine?

How does the central geography and climate of Germany impact its wine production?

About Anne Krebiehl

Anne Krebiehl MW is a freelance wine writer and lecturer. She is the editor for Germany, Austria, Alsace and Grower Champagne for Vinous Media and publishes widely in trade and consumer publications. Her first book, The Wines of Germany, won Domaine Faiveley International Wine Book of The Year 2020 at the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards.

Bonus Interview - Ottawa Independent Writers | Writer's Workshop: Highlights

The mistake in following a chronological series of events. There's nothing that will put readers to sleep more quickly than a this happened, then this happened narrative.

The mistake of underestimating the difficulty of navigating a dual timeline. While it can be difficult to try to weave back and forth, clumping together parts of your story by category won't be satisfying to the reader.

The mistake of believing that memoir is more closely aligned to non-fiction than fiction. A memoir is a true account but the techniques of memoir are all on the fiction side of things - plot, character development, climax and conflict.

About Ottawa Independent Writers

Ottawa Independent Writers (OIW) was formed in 1986 as a venue for people with a passion for creating fiction and non-fiction, for writing poetry and plays, and for stringing words together in a variety of other formats. OIW’s members are involved in every aspect of the printed and electronic word.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/295.

294: How Pigs, Sheep and Bats Help in the Vineyard with Wine Writer Sophie Menin Jul 17, 2024

Why are pigs roaming up and down the rows of more and more vineyards? Do biodynamic preparations really help vineyards by treating them more holistically or is this junk science? How does fog help vineyards, especially in Napa and Sonoma?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Sophie Menin.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Sophie Menin and Bob Chaplin's terrific new book A Year In The Vineyard.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What does “fixing nitrogen” mean, and why is it important for vines?

Do biodynamic preparations help vineyards by treating them more holistically?

How does the moon's gravitational pull influence the ideal time for pruning vines?

Why are shoot thinning and winter pruning necessary for improving vine architecture?

How have bats, pigs, and sheep become essential additions to many vineyards?

Why did one winery decide to plant vines in concentric circles rather than the traditional rows?

How does light influence wine production?

What are "crystalline cathedrals," and how do they help to protect buds in sub-zero weather?

What methods are vineyards using to warm the air and combat potential damage from frost?

How does fog help vineyards, especially in Napa and Sonoma?

In the Museum of Sophie Menin, what three objects would be in the central display?

Which wine would Sophie pair with her favourite childhood food, carrot cake?

What are Sophie’s favourite wine gadgets?

Which bottle of wine would Sophie Menin want to share with Alice Waters?

About Sophie Menin

Sophie Menin is an author and journalist who has contributed to several top publications such as The New York Times, Wine Spectator, and more. Her wine writing focuses on the myriad ways that wine connects us with our senses and the rhythms of the natural world.

Bonus Interview - Ottawa Independent Writers | Writer's Workshop: Highlights

The five steps to tasting wine

What makes a good wine versus a mediocre wine?

Memoir mistake #1: Assuming that your story is the focus of the book. This is especially important if you’re planning to write your own story someday, whether it’s for broad publication or just for friends and family as a legacy.

About Ottawa Independent Writers

Ottawa Independent Writers (OIW) was formed in 1986 as a venue for people with a passion for creating fiction and non-fiction, for writing poetry and plays, and for stringing words together in a variety of other formats. OIW’s members are involved in every aspect of the printed and electronic word.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/294.

293: Why Wine Growing a Nail-Biter Experience with Sophie Menin, Co-Author of a Year in the Vineyard Jul 10, 2024

Why do many wineries plant roses at the end of each vine row? What does bee activity tell you about a vineyard? What does it mean for winemakers to have an "aesthetic vision"?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Sophie Menin.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Sophie Menin and Bob Chaplin's terrific new book A Year In The Vineyard.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was the exact moment Sophie decided she wanted to become a writer?

What were the best and worst moments of Sophie's writing career?

Why would Sophie want to be a teacher if she didn’t pursue writing professionally?

What was the inspiration behind writing A Year In The Vineyard?

Which moments were most memorable from Sophie’s experience with the Olivier Leflaive vineyard?

How did Sophie’s collaboration with Bob Chaplin make A Year In The Vineyard different from other books on similar topics?

How did Sophie choose which wineries to feature in A Year In The Vineyard?

What was the most surprising thing Sophie discovered while researching the book?

How are some wineries changing the way they treat vineyard workers?

What was the most impactful feedback Sophie received on the book?

What were some of the challenges of writing A Year In The Vineyard?

How was the visual storytelling developed?

Which emerging trends in vineyard practices did Sophie observe in her research?

Why is natural resilience important in vineyards?

How did Sophie convince Hugh Johnson to write the foreword?

Why does Sophie consider vineyards to be gardens?

What does it mean for winemakers to hold an "aesthetic vision"?

Why is it important to live close to the earth?

What’s behind the recent practice of wineries planting roses at the end of each vineyard row?

Why is biodiversity important to vine health?

Key Takeaways

Why do many wineries plant roses at the end of each vine row? Anything that could negatively impact the vineyard, such as mildew or pests, will affect roses first. The roses are like that proverbial canary in the coal mine.

What does bee activity tell you about a vineyard? Well-cared-for vineyards begin to look like English gardens or even the Biblical Eden because they’re not only full of flowers and other plants, but they also have lots of bee activity. It’s a measure of their health and biodiversity.

What does it mean for winemakers to have an "aesthetic vision"? Every choice winemakers take considers what kind of wine they want to make.

About Sophie Menin

Sophie Menin is an author and journalist who has contributed to several top publications such as The New York Times, Wine Spectator, and more. Her wine writing focuses on the myriad ways that wine connects us with our senses and the rhythms of the natural world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/293.

292: Why Wildfire Smoke Taint in Wine Intensifies as it Ages with Dr. Wes Zandberg Jul 03, 2024

Should we, as consumers, be concerned about buying wines from regions which have experienced wildfires? Why does smoke taint intensify as a wine ages? How can wineries mitigate the risk of producing smoke-tainted wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with researcher Wes Zandberg.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why does smoke taint show up differently in different wines despite the same level of exposure of the grapes?

How can wineries mitigate the risk of producing smoke-tainted wine?

Is there a health risk associated with wine made from smoke-exposed grapes?

Why does smoke taint intensify with wine aging?

Why does the perception of smoke taint become stronger with every sip?

What are some similarities and differences between wildfire smoke exposure and the smoky aromas achieved with oak barrels?

Are some grape varieties more susceptible to smoke taint than others?

What are some of the main challenges in researching the effects of smoke exposure on wine?

Were there differences between the wildfires in BC, California, and Australia wine country?

Where is the current research focus for prevention and mitigation of smoke taint?

How would routine testing of grapes in vineyards help researchers establish benchmarks for risk assessment?

How could understanding more about the terroir of the air positively impact the wine industry?

Key Takeaways

Just because a wine region is experiencing wildfires or even smoke drift from fires farther away, it doesn’t mean that the wine will be tainted.

Smoke taint gets worse as wine ages because the wine develops new, more subtle tertiary aroma compounds which may be bolder.

Australia has pioneered techniques such as making Rosé that’s not fermented on skins where the taint is. Smoke taint is less problematic for white wine because it too isn't fermented on skins.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Wes Zandberg

Before beginning his independent research career at The University of British Columbia (2015), Wes earned a PhD in chemistry at Simon Fraser University with Prof. B. Mario Pinto. Wes loved the rainy Fraser Valley so much that he remained at SFU, completing his post-doctoral research with Prof. David Vocadlo. This training instilled in Wes a fascination for glycoscience as well as a realization that the study of the structures/functions of carbohydrates (i.e. glycoscience) was—and still is—impeded by a dearth of suitable analytical tools and methods. Now, students in Wes’ lab at devise glyco-analytical methods that actually work for real samples rather than off-the-shelf model systems.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/292.

291: How Wildfires Affect the Taste of Your Wine with Dr. Wes Zandberg Jun 26, 2024

What are the main causes of wildfires in wine country? Which two weather-based factors are the strongest predictors of the severity of wildfires each season? What impact do wildfires have on the taste of your wine, and why is it difficult to predict whether smoke-exposed grapes will, in fact, produce tainted wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with researcher Wes Zandberg.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What sparked Wes’ interest in winemaking and wine chemistry?

Why are BC wineries at a disadvantage coming out of 2022 and 2023?

What are the main causes of wildfires in British Columbia?

How much damage was caused by the wildfires in late 2023 and why were they worse than in the past?

Why did the wildfires start so early in 2024?

Which two weather-based factors are the strongest predictors of the risk of wildfires each season?

How does fire play an important role in the forest ecosystem?

How do wildfires affect wine itself chemically?

What is the economic impact of wildfires on the wine industry?

Why is it challenging to predict smoke taint through analytical tools alone?

How does yeast activity contribute to smoke taint in wine post-fermentation?

Key Takeaways

In 2021, Wes notes that the BC’s Okanagan Valley experienced severe wildfires due to arson. The vast majority, though, of wildfires are started by lightning and human causes, both errors and malevolence.

Wes observes that the quicker snow melts and evaporates, leaving drier conditions, the greater the risk of wildfires. This is exacerbated if seasonal rains are below average, especially in June and July.

There isn’t a chemical test to determine whether smoke-exposed grapes will actually produce smoke-tainted wines. Smoke taint also doesn’t express itself in unfermented grapes, making it even harder to predict its impact on the wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Wes Zandberg

Before beginning his independent research career at The University of British Columbia (2015), Wes earned a PhD in chemistry at Simon Fraser University with Prof. B. Mario Pinto. Wes loved the rainy Fraser Valley so much that he remained at SFU, completing his post-doctoral research with Prof. David Vocadlo. This training instilled in Wes a fascination for glycoscience as well as a realization that the study of the structures/functions of carbohydrates (i.e. glycoscience) was—and still is—impeded by a dearth of suitable analytical tools and methods. Now, students in Wes’ lab at devise glyco-analytical methods that actually work for real samples rather than off-the-shelf model systems.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/291.

290: Ontario Wines, the Women Behind Them and at the Forefront with Jennifer Wilhelm Jun 19, 2024

What is agri-tourism and why did people begin to embrace the farming experience? Why don't Ontarians drink as much of our own wine as other provinces or countries? How did one woman lead the charge for biodynamic and organic wines in Canada?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Jennifer Wilhelm.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Jennifer Wilhelm's terrific new book Sharing a Glass: Inspirational Memoirs & Memories of the Women Who Shaped Ontario's Grape & Wine Industry. Three of you in Canada will win a bottle of the full-bodied, buttery-rich Chloe Chardonnay. The latter restriction relates to the cross-border shipping of alcohol and all the fun that entails.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was it like for Debbie Zimmerman campaigning door-to-door in the 70s?

What did Debbie Zimmerman learn from Canadian politician and activist Nellie McClung?

How did Debbie Zimmerman’s political and journalism careers help her negotiate between Ontario grape growers and wineries?

How has Ann Sperling led the charge for biodynamic and organic wines in Canada?

Why don't Ontarians drink as much of their own wine as other provinces?

What were Barbara Leslie’s contributions to the Ontario wine industry?

What is agritourism and how did Nicolette Novak get people from the city to embrace it?

How did Madame Andrée Bosc highlight the value of giving people context for the wines they are drinking?

What were some of the challenges and lessons that Jennifer experienced writing her book during the pandemic?

What does Jennifer love about the stories behind the Maenad Wine Company and Liebling Wines?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jennifer Wilhelm

Jennifer Wilhelm has dedicated her career to Ontario’s hospitality industry. She is a certified Sommelier, and holds credentials from WSET, Prud’homme, Hospitality Management, and Human Resources with a focus on training and development. She taught at Niagara College for 17 years and was named 2010 Ontario Wine Educator through the VQA Promoters Awards. She received a Lieutenant Governor’s Community Volunteer Award for her contributions to the Ontario wine industry.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/290.

289: Celebrating Women in Wine with Jennifer Wilhelm & Andrea Brambila Jun 12, 2024

Are you curious about the untold stories of the legendary women who helped create the Ontario wine industry and who also shaped its future? Wine might lead people to work in the wine industry, but what sustains a lifetime career beyond that? Why don’t we celebrate people while they’re alive, but instead wait to express those heartfelt thoughts in a eulogy, post-mortem biography or other memorials?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Jennifer Wilhelm.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Jennifer Wilhelm's terrific new book Sharing a Glass: Inspirational Memoirs & Memories of the Women Who Shaped Ontario's Grape & Wine Industry. Three of you in Canada will win a bottle of the full-bodied, buttery-rich Chloe Chardonnay. The latter restriction relates to the cross-border shipping of alcohol and all the fun that entails.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did two tables of broken wine glasses feature in Jennifer’s most memorable wine moment?

What was it like hosting a wine event during a hurricane?

How are camaraderie and support an integral part of working in the wine industry?

What was Jennifer’s inspiration for writing Sharing a Glass?

Why have women’s stories been historically underrepresented?

What was the most surprising insight that Jennifer discovered while writing Sharing a Glass?

Why did Jennifer start the book by profiling Debi Pratt?

What risk did Debi Pratt take in joining Inniskillin?

Which creative strategies did Debi Pratt use to educate people and promote Ontario wine?

How has Inniskillin honoured Debi Pratt's contributions?

Who is Dr. Helen Fisher, and why did Jennifer want to feature her in the book?

How did Donna Lailey’s advocacy for new growing methods help to move the Ontario wine industry forward?

Why was Donna Lailey named Niagara Grape King?

Where did Jennifer’s co-collaborator, Elena Galey-Pride, redirect her proceeds from the book?

How did Dr. Linda Bramble overcome several obstacles to become a leader in the Canadian wine industry?

About Jennifer Wilhelm

Jennifer Wilhelm has dedicated her career to Ontario’s hospitality industry. She is a certified Sommelier, and holds credentials from WSET, Prud’homme, Hospitality Management, and Human Resources with a focus on training and development. She taught at Niagara College for 17 years and was named 2010 Ontario Wine Educator through the VQA Promoters Awards. She received a Lieutenant Governor’s Community Volunteer Award for her contributions to the Ontario wine industry.

Bonus Interview - Andrea Brambila

How did Andrea realize she wanted to become a winemaker?

Which type of glass does Andrea recommend with full-bodied Chardonnay?

Why shouldn’t you judge a wine based on the first sip?

Which foods pair well with the Chloe Chardonnay?

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/289.

288: Heroic Italian Wines & the Future of Italy's Wines with Marc Millon Jun 05, 2024

What is a heroic wine? Which emerging trends will shape the taste of Italian wine in the next decade? How has Italian art and architecture directly influenced its wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Marc Millon.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Marc Millon's terrific new book Italy in a Wineglass: The Story of Italy Through Its Wines.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What made Marchesi Antinori the wine producer who’s made the biggest impact on wine today?

How did a wine of the lowest classification revolutionize Italian winemaking in the 1970s?

How did Venetian merchants influence wine production standards in Italy?

What impact did the royal fascination with Barolo have on its global perception?

What defines a heroic wine?

How did World War II reshape Italian vineyard landscapes?

Why do the cultural practices surrounding wine in Italy enhance wine tourism more than in neighbouring countries?

What is the link between art and wine?

What might surprise you about the mafia’s influence on the Italian wine industry?

Which emerging trends in Italian wine will shape the next decade?

How has climate change affected the English wine industry?

What does Marc love about Lympstone Manor Estate Isabeau Rosé 2023?

What makes San Felice Poggio Rosso Chianti Classico Gran Selezione a great example of Chianti’s evolution?

Why would Marc choose Pliny the Elder to share a bottle of wine with?

What’s Marc’s top wine tip to make us more wine-savvy?

Key Takeaways

What is a heroic wine? Marc defines them as wines made with immense effort from difficult terrains like sea cliffs or high mountain vineyards so they require heroic effort to make them and yet they’re not often well known.

Which emerging trends will shape the taste of Italian wine in the next decade? Marc sees a greater focus on organic and sustainable viticulture due to climate change.

How has Italian art and architecture directly influenced its wines? There are styles of wine that reflect architectural styles. Even the bottles and labels that producers create reflect architecture.

About Marc Millon

Marc Millon is a food, wine and travel writer and communicator and the author of numerous books as well as magazine articles published on both sides of the Atlantic. Marc has been travelling, eating, drinking, learning and writing about food, wine and travel for more than 40 years.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/288.

287: Italy in a Wine Glass: The Story of Italy Through Its Wines with Marc Millon May 29, 2024

Which almost-forgotten grape Italian varieties deserve more recognition? What might surprise you about the stories and wines from Campania? What makes wine such a great narrative vehicle throughout history?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Marc Millon.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Marc Millon's terrific new book Italy in a Wineglass: The Story of Italy Through Its Wines.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was it like spending summers running up and down Mexican pyramids as a child?

How has Marc been influenced by his Korean heritage?

What does Marc remember most vividly about moving to England at 19?

What was it like being a writer and travelling the wine regions of multiple countries pre-internet?

Why was Marc motivated to write his latest book, Italy in a Wineglass?

What makes Italy in a Wineglass so different from other books about Italian wine?

How did the Italian pride in history and story stand out to Marc while researching the book?

What has been the most interesting feedback on the book so far?

Why did the stories from Campania surprise Marc the most?

What makes wine such a great narrative vehicle throughout history?

Which almost-forgotten grape varieties deserve more recognition?

How does the Ancient Greek symposium compare to modern Italian social wine-drinking customs?

Which wine story in the book is most reflective of Italian culture?

About Marc Millon

Marc Millon is a food, wine and travel writer and communicator and the author of numerous books as well as magazine articles published on both sides of the Atlantic. Marc has been travelling, eating, drinking, learning and writing about food, wine and travel for more than 40 years.

Bonus Interview - Bianca Marais

Why did I write “Wine Witch on Fire,” and how did I know when it was the right time?

What was the inciting incident that kicked off my no good, very terrible year?

How did my story and experiences with misogyny resonate with other women in various industries?

How do you balance telling your truth in a memoir and concerns about potential legal repercussions down the line?

Who was responsible for paying for the expensive legal reviews and edits of my manuscript?

Why did I choose the theme of witches as the connecting thread throughout my memoir?

How did I weave in references to deepen the witch metaphor throughout Wine Witch on Fire?

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/287.

286: Mixing Business and Pleasure; Authenticity and Forgery in Art and Wine with Bianca Bosker May 22, 2024

How are innovators making art and wine more engaging and accessible? What is it about the art and wine worlds that makes business and pleasure often one and the same? Is authenticity in art important?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Bianca Bosker.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Bianca Bosker's terrific new book Get the Picture: A Mind-Bending Journey among the Inspired Artists and Obsessive Art Fiends Who Taught Me How to See. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Are the art and wine worlds still ruled by gatekeepers?

How are innovators bringing in new voices and making art and wine more engaging and accessible?

What’s the role of the social grapevine in the art and wine industries?

Why is mentorship a critical aspect of moving up the ladder in these industries?

What is it about the art and wine worlds that makes business and pleasure often one and the same?

What are some creative ways to develop your taste and understanding of art and wine?

Is authenticity in art important?

How do forgeries and fakes impact the art world?

What can the art and wine worlds learn from each other?

Why was it important to Bianca to be in the action in the art world when writing Get in the Picture?

Which wines would Bianca pair with iconic artists and artwork?

Why would Joan Didion be Bianca’s ideal companion for sharing a bottle of wine?

Key Takeaways

Bianca says, “With art and wine, some people say there are no rules, you can engage with it any way you want." She found that advice really frustrating. She thinks that it is important to give people the tools to think for themselves to engage with art or with wine on their own terms.

Bianca observes that mixing business and pleasure is part of getting ahead in these different worlds, but it can be unfair for up-and-coming artists. It's hard to spend all of your time bopping around openings and networking.

With art, the idea of a forgery is actually a relatively recent invention, Bianca notes. We haven't always cared what was original and what was a forgery or what was a fake.

About Bianca Bosker

Bianca Bosker is the author of the New York Times bestselling books Get the Picture: A Mind-Bending Journey among the Inspired Artists and Obsessive Art Fiends Who Taught Me How to See and Cork Dork. A contributing writer at The Atlantic, she has also written for publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. Her work has been recognized with awards from the New York Press Club, the Society of Professional Journalists, and more, and has been included in The Best American Travel Writing.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/286.

285: The Obsessive Passions and Parallels Between Art & Wine with Bianca Bosker, Author of Get the Picture and Cork Dork May 15, 2024

Why are people with obsessive natures often drawn to both wine and art? How does strategic snobbery create deliberate barriers to entry into the art and wine worlds? What does it mean to stay in the work or to stay with the wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Bianca Bosker.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Bianca Bosker's terrific new book Get the Picture: A Mind-Bending Journey among the Inspired Artists and Obsessive Art Fiends Who Taught Me How to See. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Which cities has Bianca visited so far on her book tour?

What has Bianca found to be the top marketing strategies for her book?

Are art-world people more or less obsessive than wine-world people?

Why are people with obsessive natures drawn to art and wine?

How did getting into artists’ studios transform the way Bianca looks at art?

What does it mean to “stay in the work”?

How does strategic snobbery create deliberate barriers to entry into the art and wine industries?

Is there really a need for complex terminology and flowery language in describing wine?

How has art speak evolved to become less descriptive and more exclusionary?

Why does Bianca differentiate between the logic behind wine descriptions and art speak?

What’s behind the art world’s suspicion of beautiful things and are there parallels in the wine world?

How do art and wine help us to discover and appreciate beauty in the everyday?

Key Takeaways

Bianca observed an all-consuming passion and intensity in both worlds. As she says: "I'd never met a group of people willing to sacrifice so much for something of so little obvious practical value." They are both in their own way, hedonistic. They really sort of involve all of us - our minds, and our bodies.

Strategic snobbery creates deliberate barriers to entry into the art and wine worlds. Bianca explains that it exists to keep out the "Joe Schmoes." The language is one of these constructions that exists to distinguish you as someone that does or does not get it.

Bianca advises to slow down and absorb your experiences. It's also what I teach my online wine and food pairing students. Think about what you're experiencing and what you're tasting.

About Bianca Bosker

Bianca Bosker is the author of the New York Times bestselling books Get the Picture: A Mind-Bending Journey among the Inspired Artists and Obsessive Art Fiends Who Taught Me How to See and Cork Dork. A contributing writer at The Atlantic, she has also written for publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. Her work has been recognized with awards from the New York Press Club, the Society of Professional Journalists, and more, and has been included in The Best American Travel Writing.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/285.

284: Spanish Wine Pairings + Cookbook Creation Secrets with Barbara Scott-Goodman May 08, 2024

Why do Spanish wines pair well with earthy, savoury dishes? How does food photography affect the cost of a cookbook? How can you set yourself up for success as an aspiring food or drink writer?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Barbara Scott-Goodman.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Barbara Scott-Goodman's terrific book Wine Time: 70+ Recipes for Simple Bites That Pair Perfectly with Wine.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What are Barbara’s three favourite wine pairings?

Why is food photography so expensive and how does it affect the cost of a cookbook?

Do photographs of the dishes enhance or detract from restaurant menus?

What are Barbara’s favourite cookbooks and why?

How has the cookbook market evolved over the past 10 years and what are some of the trends Barbara sees now?

What were some of the most interesting cocktails Barbara came across while writing Brooklyn Bar Bites?

Which marketing channels were the most successful for Wine Bites and Wine Time?

How can you set yourself up for success as an aspiring food or drink writer?

Which chef and musician would Barbara like to share a bottle of wine with?

What makes a summer afternoon outdoors the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of wine?

Which simple high-low food pairing should you try next?

About Barbara Scott-Goodman

Barbara Scott-Goodman is an author, art director, and designer of cookbooks for many publishers. Her most recent book is Wine Time ((Chronicle Books, 2021). Other books include Cake (Penguin Press, 2018), a collaboration with writer and illustrator Maira Kalman, Delicious Dessert Cocktails (Bluestreak Books, 2018), Brooklyn Bar Bites (Rizzoli, 2016), Happy Hour at Home (Running Press, 2013), and Wine Bites (Chronicle Books, 2011).

Her work has been featured in publications in print and online, including Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, Saveur, Publishers Weekly, Food52, and Sweet Paul. Her books always emphasize the importance of warm and intimate gatherings and eating, drinking, and living well in this era of non-ostentatious, casual entertaining.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/284.

283: Challenging Wine Matches with Barbara Scott-Goodman, Author of Wine Time: 70+ Recipes for Simple Bites That Pair Perfectly with Wine May 01, 2024

Can you pair pickled foods with wine, or will their vinegarized flavours ruin the wine? Which wines pair best with soft-shell crab? What goes into great food photography, whether in a magazine or cookbook?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Barbara Scott-Goodman.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Barbara Scott-Goodman's terrific book Wine Time: 70+ Recipes for Simple Bites That Pair Perfectly with Wine.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Barbara’s passion for creating recipes develop?

Which are the best wines to pair with soft-shell crab?

What was Barbara’s most memorable wine moment?

When did Barbara realize she wanted to transition into a writing career?

Why are book covers often like a political landmine?

What are the key elements of a good cookbook cover?

How did Barbara decide on the cover design for her book, Wine Time?

What makes great food photography?

How did the art of pickling surprise Barbara while researching Wine Time?

Can you pair pickled foods with wine?

Key Takeaways

Can you pair pickled foods with wine? As Barbara observed, contrary to popular belief, these vinegarized foods don’t always wreak havoc on wine. Riesling actually works very well with its own natural acidity, as do other acidic wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Gruner Veltliner.

Which wines pair best with soft-shell crab? Barbara would go with a chilled pinot grigio, or if she’s feeling extravagant, a white burgundy, which is an opulent French chardonnay.

What goes into great food photography, whether it’s in a magazine or cookbook? Barbara says there's a lot going on behind the scenes. You need to have a good food stylist and a good prop stylist. Most of us don't realize that there are people who get paid to shop for the right linen, the right glass, the right cup, and it's very subtle, but you look at it, you go, wow, that photograph is so good. It's because this team is thinking about it. And that's the magic of food photography.

About Barbara Scott-Goodman

Barbara Scott-Goodman is an author, art director, and designer of cookbooks for many publishers. Her most recent book is Wine Time ((Chronicle Books, 2021). Other books include Cake (Penguin Press, 2018), a collaboration with writer and illustrator Maira Kalman, Delicious Dessert Cocktails (Bluestreak Books, 2018), Brooklyn Bar Bites (Rizzoli, 2016), Happy Hour at Home (Running Press, 2013), and Wine Bites (Chronicle Books, 2011).

Her work has been featured in publications in print and online, including Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, Saveur, Publishers Weekly, Food52, and Sweet Paul. Her books always emphasize the importance of warm and intimate gatherings and eating, drinking, and living well in this era of non-ostentatious, casual entertaining.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/283.

282: Wine Sulphites, Mindful Drinking and Marketing Alcohol on The Erica Diamond Podcast Apr 24, 2024

Should you avoid wine with sulphites? What are some of the important differences in the way wine is marketed to men versus women? How can you practice mindful drinking without giving up the wine you love?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Erica Diamond on The Erica Diamond Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why did I choose to write a completely different genre for my third book, Wine Witch On Fire?

How did I first realize my drinking was sliding away from healthy?

Why do I say wine today is like Virginia Slims were in the 1960s?

What are some of the stark differences in how wine is marketed to men versus women?

What are some of the red flags that your drinking might be problematic?

Why did I decide to focus on harm-reduction techniques instead of going sober?

How do I now practice mindful drinking, considering that wine is integral to my career?

Should you avoid wine with sulphites?

What signs should you be aware of that suggest your drinking habits might be becoming unhealthy?

What words of wisdom would I offer my younger self if I could?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Erica Diamond & The Erica Diamond Podcast

The Erica Diamond Podcast is getting you motivated and inspired by conversations with today’s thought leaders and coolest people. Each episode, get up close and personal with compelling guests who share stories and tips that empower you to live your best life.

Erica Diamond is a Certified Life and Career Coach and certified Yoga and Meditation Teacher who helps women completely transform their days to vibrate at a high energy frequency and feel calm at the same time. She's the definition of multi-passionate and also can be seen as the Lifestyle & Parenting Correspondent on Global TV, on stage as a Professional Speaker, hosting The Erica Diamond Podcast, teaching Busy To Bliss and trying her hand in the kitchen (to many blunders!).

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/282.

281: Splendid Vin Jaune, Jura Wine 's Wild Variety and Mysterious Grapes of the French Alps with Wink Lorch Apr 17, 2024

What makes Vin Jaune from France's Jura region so special? What can you discover about the diversity of wine coming out of Jura and the French Alps? What are some insider tips for planning a journey to the French Alps?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Wink Lorch.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a copy of Wink Lorch's terrific book about the wines of Jura and the French Alps.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What exactly goes into the winemaking process for Vin Jaune that sets it apart from other wines?

Why does Wink describe the taste of Vin Jaune as a “shock to the palate”?

What are some great food pairings for Vin Jaune, and how should they be stored and served?

How does using the méthode ancestrale influence Bugey Cerdon sparkling wine?

Which traditional dishes from the Jura region are a must-try, and how do they pair with Bugey Cerdon?

What are the best tips for having great wine-tasting experiences in the picturesque French Alps?

What inspired Wink to turn to Kickstarter for crowdfunding her books and other wine-related projects?

Why was there a need for a book on Jura alone and what challenges come with self-publishing and crowdfunding such a project?

What can you discover about diversity when you explore wine from Jura and the French Alps?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Wink Lorch

British wine writer, author and educator Wink Lorch has always worked in the world of wine: writing, editing, teaching and presenting tastings having started her career working for British wine importers. Based between London and the French Alps, over the past 20 years, she has become known as the English-language specialist of the wines of Jura and Savoie.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/281.

280: Wines of Jura and the French Alps with Wink Lorch: From Ski Resorts to Worldwide Sensation Apr 10, 2024

What is it about wines from the French Alps and Jura that makes them so different from any other wine region in the world? How has climate change impacted wines in the region? How did their perception as “ski resort wines” negatively impact Jura and Savoie wineries?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Wink Lorch.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a copy of Wink Lorch's terrific book about the wines of Jura and the French Alps.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What sparked Wink’s interest in the French Alps and Jura?

Why is it important to distinguish between the French Alps and Prealps?

What’s the connection between Jura and Savoie?

Where exactly are Jura and the French Alps located, and what does the landscape look like?

How does Jura's terroir compare to Burgundy's, and what does this mean for their wines?

How did the historic Mont Granier landslide impact the region?

What was Louis Pasteur’s influence on the wine industry, and where can you visit to learn more about him while visiting the Jura region?

How do the mountains in the region impact the vineyards in Savoie and Jura?

How has climate change impacted the wine industry in the region, and should we be concerned?

What unique challenges face Jura and Savoie wine producers, considering their small production and export rates?

How did the historical association of Savoie wines with ski resorts affect their perception?

Why have Jura wines become popular with sommeliers in some trendy Manhattan restaurants?

What makes Jura wines so distinctive, and what challenges are they currently experiencing?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Wink Lorch

British wine writer, author and educator Wink Lorch has always worked in the world of wine: writing, editing, teaching and presenting tastings having started her career working for British wine importers. Based between London and the French Alps, over the past 20 years, she has become known as the English-language specialist of the wines of Jura and Savoie.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/280.

279: Dazzling Beaujolais Food Pairings and Wild Indigenous Yeast Flavours with Natasha Hughes Apr 03, 2024

Why are Beaujolais wines so versatile when it comes to food pairing? How are younger producers bringing renewed optimism to Beaujolais? What is indigenous fermentation, and how does it contribute to the complexity of Beaujolais wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Master of Wine and author, Natasha Hughes.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a copy of a terrific, new book to which Natasha Hughes is a contributor- On Burgundy: From Maddening to Marvellous in 59 Tales.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What’s behind the increasing alcohol levels in Beaujolais wines?

Why are Beaujolais wines so versatile when it comes to food pairing?

How do carbonic maceration and other techniques often used in Beaujolais winemaking work? How did Beaujolais develop a reputation for “bubblegum and banana” aromas?

How are younger producers and innovative approaches driving the current vibrant and dynamic atmosphere in Beaujolais?

What is indigenous fermentation, and how does it contribute to the complexity of Beaujolais wines?

Why are stories the best way to share your love of wine?

How would Natasha pair wine and snails?

Who’s on the guest list for Natasha’s dream dinner party and why?

What’s Natasha’s top temperature-based wine tip?

Key Takeaways

Why are Beaujolais wines so versatile when it comes to food pairing? As Natasha observes, these are crunchy wines, you take them on a picnic, you open them with charcuterie and salads and don't take them too seriously.

How are younger producers bringing renewed optimism to Beaujolais? Natasha says they’re revitalizing the region with new approaches and experimenting with indigenous yeasts.

How does indigenous fermentation contribute to the complexity of Beaujolais wines? Yeast populations in the winery and on grape skins are allowed to take over the fermentation process, resulting in more complex wines.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Natasha Hughes

Natasha Hughes MW graduated as a Master of Wine in 2014, winning four out of the seven prizes awarded that year, including the Outstanding Achievement Award. Natasha began her wine trade career as deputy editor for Decanter’s website but left in 2001 to begin freelancing as a journalist, specialising in wine and food. Natasha has contributed material for a number of books, and is currently working on her first solo effort, a book on Beaujolais, for the Wine Library series.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/279.

278: The Surprising Complexity of Beaujolais with Natasha Hughes, Contributor to On Burgundy: From Maddening to Marvellous in 59 Tales Mar 27, 2024

What’s behind the surprising complexity and variety of Beaujolais wines? How has Beaujolais Nouveau distorted the public perception of Beaujolais? What makes Beaujolais such a good value wine?

In this Unreserved Wine Talk podcast episode, I'm chatting with Master of Wine and author, Natasha Hughes.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you will win a copy of a terrific, new book to which Natasha Hughes is a contributor- On Burgundy: From Maddening to Marvellous in 59 Tales.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What might surprise you about the complexity of the Beaujolais region and wine?

How has Beaujolais Nouveau somewhat distorted the public perception of Beaujolais?

Where is Beaujolais connected to Burgundy?

How does soil greatly influence the quality of wine produced from Gamay grapes?

When was Beaujolais Nouveau introduced to the world and how did it affect the quality of wine produced in the region?

What was behind the declining popularity of Beaujolais in the 80s and 90s?

Which are Beaujolais’ top 10 crus?

Why are Chénas, Moulin-à-Vent, and Morgon the most structured of the cru wines?

How is the geological complexity of Beaujolais reflected in the wines produced in the region?

What’s behind the elevating prices for Beaujolais wines?

How can a vineyard gain Premier Cru status?

Key Takeaways

What’s behind the surprising complexity and variety of Beaujolais wines? There’s a lot of geographical complexity, despite it being such a small region.

How has Beaujolais Nouveau distorted the public perception of Beaujolais? Nouveau introduced the world to cheap and cheerful wines, but the quality of wine suffered in the race to compete with new, easy-drinking New World wines.

What makes Beaujolais such a good value wine? Despite increasing quality and correspondingly increasing prices, Beaujolais represents a good value compared to bordering regions.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Natasha Hughes

Natasha Hughes MW graduated as a Master of Wine in 2014, winning four out of the seven prizes awarded that year, including the Outstanding Achievement Award. Natasha began her wine trade career as deputy editor for Decanter’s website but left in 2001 to begin freelancing as a journalist, specialising in wine and food. Natasha has contributed material for a number of books, and is currently working on her first solo effort, a book on Beaujolais, for the Wine Library series.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/278.

277: Will AI Replace Writers and Winemakers? Conversation with Ellen Clifford of The Wine Situation Podcast Mar 20, 2024

Why don’t I think that artificial intelligence (AI) will replace human writers any time soon? What are some tips you can use for maintaining a healthy relationship with wine? What are some of the challenges women in the wine industry still face?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Ellen Clifford on The Wine Situation podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Was wine part of my family’s culture growing up?

When did I start learning about wine, and why did I decide to make the career transition?

When did I introduce my son to wine, and what is his relationship with alcohol like as an adult?

How do I account for different tastes and preferences when I’m writing wine reviews?

Is there a place for AI in writing?

Why don’t I think AI will replace human writers any time soon?

What was the inspiration for using the metaphor of witch trials in Wine Witch on Fire?

What are some of the challenges women in the wine industry are still facing?

Why is it often a complex issue figuring out how to present yourself at after-work wine industry events?

What are some tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with wine?

Why should you try Southbrook Vineyard’s orange wine?

What makes Rosé and ketchup chips a perfect pairing?

If not wine, what are my favourite beverages?

Why do I find so much joy in the connections I make with readers?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Ellen Clifford & The Wine Situation

The Wine Situation hosts everyone from winemakers to writers to find out what a person’s situation is…with wine. It’s the solo season with host Ellen Clifford, but listen in with a glass, and nobody is drinking alone! At the end of every action-packed episode, Ellen is phoning a friend with her Final Five questions. Ellen also contributes to Delectable, The Wine Situation, Salon, Food52, Hello Giggles, MassLive.com, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, and Independent Living.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/277.

276: Delicious Vegan Wine Pairings with Jennifer Huether and Priya Rao, Authors of The Social Herbivore Mar 13, 2024

Which wineries are leading the way with vegan wines? How are some restaurants expanding into innovative vegan or vegetarian menus? What makes Riesling so versatile, especially with vegan dishes?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jennifer Huether and Priya Rao, authors of The Social Herbivore: Perfect Pairings For Plant-Based Cuisine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a copy of Priya Rao & Jennifer Huether's terrific book, The Social Herbivore: Perfect Pairings For Plant-Based Cuisine - the first book ever on plant-based food and wine matching.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What surprised Jen about Riesling’s versatility?

What is Priya’s favourite unexpected and daring pairing?

Which recent advancements in the world of plant-based foods would Priya and Jen include in an updated edition of the Social Herbivore?

How are some restaurants expanding into innovative vegan or vegetarian offerings?

Which wineries are leading the way in producing vegan wines?

What goes into vegan charcuterie and cheese?

What is carbonic maceration, and how does it impact the taste and aroma of a wine?

What were Priya and Jen’s favourite vegan food and wine pairings?

How do the differences between animal and plant proteins and fats affect wine pairings?

How can you create a fun tasting experience to figure out the best wine pairings for spicy foods?

What can you do to extend the shelf life of an opened bottle of wine?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Priya Rao

A foodie and wine lover, Priya switched to a vegetarian diet in 1995 and then to a vegan one in 2011. She had previously hosted vegan food and wine events, appearing on Breakfast Television as a guest wine expert on 640AM and Rogers Daytime, and writing articles for Prince Edward County’s Grapevine Magazine, and more. She is currently a contributor for Vineroutes.com on all things vegan food & wine.

About Jennifer Huether

Jennifer’s love affair and studies in wine started in her early twenties with taking an interest course at George Brown college. From there, she immediately leapt into the Sommelier Certification from ISG graduating top of class, then Diploma of Wine from WSET, followed by the Advanced Sommelier passing in 2005 and finally the Master Sommelier Exams-becoming Canada’s first female Master Sommelier in 2011 graduating in Dallas Texas. Jennifer is one of thirty women Master Sommeliers in the world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/276.

275: What Are Vegan Wines & Are They Better for You with Jennifer Huether and Priya Rao Mar 06, 2024

Are vegan wines better for our health? What three aspects of a wine determine whether it’s vegan or not? How can you identify whether or not a wine is vegan by looking at the label?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jennifer Huether and Priya Rao, authors of The Social Herbivore: Perfect Pairings For Plant-Based Cuisine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a copy of Priya Rao & Jennifer Huether's terrific book, The Social Herbivore: Perfect Pairings For Plant-Based Cuisine - the first book ever on plant-based food and wine matching.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Priya end up tasting an 1812 Madeira, and what was that experience like?

Which Burgundy wine was responsible for Jennifer’s most memorable wine moment?

How has the plant-based movement influenced the wine industry’s interest in vegan wine?

What are the three aspects of wine that determine whether it’s considered vegan?

How are animals and animal products used in winemaking?

What animal-free alternatives are used by vegan winemakers?

How do vegetarian and vegan diets differ?

Are there official symbols on a wine label that indicate whether it’s vegan?

Is there a connection between vegan wines and organic/ biodynamic wines?

Are vegan wines better for our health?

What’s the difference between a plant-based and vegan diet?

How does the book approach wine pairings?

Which wines have the most versatility when paired with vegan dishes?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Priya Rao

A foodie and wine lover, Priya switched to a vegetarian diet in 1995 and then to a vegan one in 2011. She had previously hosted vegan food and wine events, appearing on Breakfast Television as a guest wine expert on 640AM and Rogers Daytime, and writing articles for Prince Edward County’s Grapevine Magazine, and more. She is currently a contributor for Vineroutes.com on all things vegan food & wine.

About Jennifer Huether

Jennifer’s love affair and studies in wine started in her early twenties with taking an interest course at George Brown college. From there, she immediately leapt into the Sommelier Certification from ISG graduating top of class, then Diploma of Wine from WSET, followed by the Advanced Sommelier passing in 2005 and finally the Master Sommelier Exams-becoming Canada’s first female Master Sommelier in 2011 graduating in Dallas Texas. Jennifer is one of thirty women Master Sommeliers in the world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/275.

274: The Golden Rule to Buy Burgundy & Avoid High Prices with Raymond Blake, Author of Côte d’Or Feb 28, 2024

How did the French region of Burgundy come to the world’s attention as a wine region in the first place? What’s the golden rule for buying Burgundy, especially Pinot Noir? What’s behind the sometimes eye-watering stratospheric prices of Burgundian wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with one of Ireland’s leading wine writers, Raymond Blake.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a copy of On Burgundy: From Maddening to Marvellous in 59 Wine Tales and two of you will win a copy of Wine Talk – An Enthusiast’s Take on the People, the Places, the Grapes, and the Styles.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What will you experience as you go through Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune in Burgundy?

How did Burgundy come to the world’s attention as a wine region in the first place?

How did the Napoleonic code and inheritance laws in Burgundy complicate the region even further?

What’s behind the sometimes eye-watering pricing of Burgundy wines?

Are there affordable options when it comes to Burgundy wines?

What are some of the characteristics of Burgundy wines produced through the challenges that came with the 2021 vintage?

What tasting notes will you experience from Jean-Marc Vincent Bourgogne Blanc 2021 and Jean-Claude Ramonet Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2021?

What are some of Raymond’s more unconventional wine-drinking habits that often raise an eyebrow?

Why shouldn’t you serve your red wines at room temperature?

Which are Raymond’s favourite versatile wines for food pairing?

What are some of Raymond’s favourite wine gadgets?

Key Takeaways

How did Burgundy come to the world’s attention in the first place? 1 The influence of Benedictine and Cistercian monks; 2 Geography as a trade route; 3 High quality of the wine.

What’s the golden rule for buying Burgundy, especially Pinot Noir? Start with the producer who made the wine.

What’s behind the sometimes eye-watering stratospheric prices of Burgundian wines? Fashion/market trends and the rise (and fall) of secondary markets.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Raymond Blake

Raymond Blake is one of Ireland’s leading wine writers and has been writing about wine and related topics for over 25 years. Raymond is the Burgundy correspondent for Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book and a regular contributor to The World of Fine Wine magazine. He is the author of four critically acclaimed books, including Breakfast in Burgundy and Côte d’Or.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/274.

273: Changes in Burgundy and Untangling a Complicated Region with Raymond Blake, Author Breakfast in Burgundy Feb 21, 2024

Why is Pinot Noir considered the holy grail of wine? What makes the French region Burgundy so complicated, and how can we untangle it? What would surprise and delight you about how both the wine and the region have changed in the past five years?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with one of Ireland’s leading wine writers, Raymond Blake.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a copy of On Burgundy: From Maddening to Marvellous in 59 Wine Tales and two of you will win a copy of Wine Talk – An Enthusiast’s Take on the People, the Places, the Grapes, and the Styles.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Raymond transition into a career in wine writing?

What inspired the title of Raymond’s first wine book, Breakfast in Burgundy?

What does it mean to do a tasting of the world?

Why is Raymond so passionate about spreading the wine gospel?

How can we make learning about wine more approachable and fun?

What are some of the geological and human factors that contribute to the complexity of Burgundy?

How are viticulture practices changing in response to climate change?

How are some of the more recent innovations in winemaking - like glass globes - being used?

Why is Pinot Noir considered the holy grail for winemakers in Burgundy?

Key Takeaways

Pinot Noir is considered the holy grail of wine because it’s so difficult to make and not easy to disguise with oak or other winemaking modifications if things don’t go well during the vintage.

As a region, Burgundy can be difficult to understand since, geologically, if you cross from one side of the road to the other, things change completely, and that's reflected in the wine. Add in the human element and different naming conventions, and no wonder we’re confused.

Burgundians are now training the vines differently and using fewer oak barrels. Instead, they’re using new types of vessels, eg. glass globes and stainless steel "barrels." All of this has a profound impact on the wine and its taste.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Raymond Blake

Raymond Blake is one of Ireland’s leading wine writers and has been writing about wine and related topics for over 25 years. Raymond is the Burgundy correspondent for Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book and a regular contributor to The World of Fine Wine magazine. He is the author of four critically acclaimed books, including Breakfast in Burgundy and Côte d’Or.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/273.

272: Candid Wine Conversations with Scott Sexsmith of Up Close & Personal and Matt Cundill of You May Also Like Feb 14, 2024

How do you choose the best wine pairings for dessert? When should you summon the sommelier? How can you improve your smell vocabulary and learn to distinguish between different aromas?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Scott Sexsmith of Up Close & Personal and Matt Cundill on You May Also Like.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Is it normal to find it difficult to detect the tastes and aromas from wine tasting notes?

How can you improve your smell vocabulary and learn to distinguish between different aromas?

Does my alcohol consumption concern me, considering my family history of alcoholism?

How did wine mom culture contribute to the massive increase in women drinking during the pandemic?

What does it mean to pair the wine with the diner, not the dinner?

Can thinking more deeply about wine and food pairing increase your enjoyment of both?

What are some of my go-to wine pairings you can try?

Can you get a good bottle of wine without spending a fortune?

Which bargain wines should you try on your next trip to the wine store?

Is the enjoyment of food the gateway drug to wine?

How can you find new wines to experiment with?

What three aspects of wine make it a unique experience compared to other drinks or food?

Which aspects of wine lead to more sensual enjoyment versus other alcoholic beverages?

Why does Chianti work with tomato-based foods?

Why do I prefer to think of myself as an enthusiastic amateur, rather than an expert?

Are we making any progress in breaking down the elitism and snobbery that have historically been associated with the wine industry?

How has my taste in wine changed over the years?

Why do some wines leave you with a headache the next day while others don’t?

When should you summon the sommelier?

How does the LCBO’s purchasing power impact the wines that are available in the regions they serve?

Does your palate change as you age?

Which wines and regions have flourished in Nova Scotia?

Which type of wine pairs best with spicy Indian curries?

Why did I start the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Scott Sexsmith and Matt Cundill

Scott Sexsmith has worked in media for over 30 years, having spent the bulk of his career in radio. In addition to Up Close & Personal, Scott also hosts a podcast with Michael Friscolanti called Inside the Village.

Matt Cundill's voice has been on radio, television and online since the 90's. More recently, he has taken on films and worked with e-learning companies to train employees and podcast companies to deliver the perfect host-read ad.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/272.

271: Best Sommelier Questions and How the Shape of Wine Acidity is Revealing with Vanessa Price Feb 07, 2024

Why do the wines change when you’re pairing them with kale versus other greens? Why should you avoid storing wine in the fridge? What’s the best question you can ask a sommelier in a restaurant?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Vanessa Price, the author of Big Macs and Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World and the wine expert for The TODAY Show.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What inspired Vanessa to pair wine with classic McDonald’s foods?

How did Vanessa pair pastrami sandwich (with a dill pickle) with wine?

What gives Chilean Carmenère a bell pepper taste?

How do the characteristics of different greens lend themselves to different types of wine?

What is meant by the “shape of acidity” and how can it help you to learn more about a wine?

Why shouldn’t we leave bubbly in the fridge for more than one to two weeks?

What were some of the challenges Vanessa encountered when writing her book?

How was Big Macs and Burgundy received by the wine industry?

How is Vanessa localizing Big Macs and Burgundy with each new translation?

What was Vanessa’s approach to curating the wine list at Mavericks?

Which rare and special wines have been included in Mavericks wine list?

Why did Vanessa create a skin contact section on the wine list and which types of wine are included?

What’s the best question you can ask a sommelier for a wine recommendation?

What is Vanessa’s favourite wine book?

What’s Vanessa’s favourite wine gadget?

Key Takeaways

Vanessa’s advice wasn’t focused only on fast food and candy. She also shared great tips about healthier foods.

We should avoid storing wine in a food fridge because the low humidity can dry out the cork, causing shrinkage, etc.

I also liked her advice that if you pay more attention to the shape of the acidity and the shape of the impression of the tannin, you can probably learn a lot more about a wine.

The best question you can ask a sommelier in a restaurant is sharing information about what you like already, even if that’s simply showing them a picture on your phone of a label from a wine you like.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Vanessa Price

Vanessa has spent almost two decades in the wine industry as a trained sommelier and is the author of best selling book Big Macs and Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World. Vanessa is a certified Level 4 sommelier, resident sommelier for The TODAY Show and the Wine Director of Wildflower Farms, an Auberge Resort Hotel. She has also taught classes for The Wine & Spirit Education Trust and has written for and been featured in New York Magazine, Vogue, and many others.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/271.

270: Creative Wine Pairings with Circus Peanuts, Cheetos and Twinkies with Vanessa Price, Author of Big Macs and Burgundy Jan 31, 2024

Have you ever wondered which wine pairs best with your favourite guilty pleasure snack? Why are Cheetos and Twinkies great for learning about food and wine pairing? How can everyday foods encourage you to try wines you may have otherwise avoided?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Vanessa Price, the author of Big Macs and Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World and the wine expert for The TODAY Show.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was it like for Vanessa to introduce her non-drinking grandparents to wine in their 80s?

How did wine culture inspire Vanessa to pursue a career in the industry?

What did Vanessa discover about publishing after writing her first book?

What was Vanessa’s journey to starting her column in New York Magazine?

How did Vanessa choose which food and wine pairings to include in Big Macs and Burgundy?

What was the idea behind pairing wine with 100 different candies?

Why did Vanessa choose Sancerre as the best wine to pair with Cheetos?

How can you best pair licorice, twinkies, s’mores, and cronuts with wine?

What was it about circus peanuts that inspired someone to try a new type of wine?

Key Takeaways

I like the creative and fun way that Vanessa has explored the concept of high-low pairings, including which wines go with our favourite guilty pleasure snacks.

She makes a great point that snacks like Cheetos and Twinkies are great for learning about food and wine pairing because they are simpler in flavour and texture, so it's easier to understand what will pair well with them.

I liked her examples of how everyday foods encourage you to try wines you may have otherwise avoided. She talked about circus peanuts helped her discover orange Muscat for the first time.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Vanessa Price

Vanessa has spent almost two decades in the wine industry as a trained sommelier and is the author of best selling book Big Macs and Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World. Vanessa is a certified Level 4 sommelier, resident sommelier for The TODAY Show and the Wine Director of Wildflower Farms, an Auberge Resort Hotel. She has also taught classes for The Wine & Spirit Education Trust and has written for and been featured in New York Magazine, Vogue, and many others.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/270.

269: Defining Musty Attics, Band-Aids and Rotten Eggs with Keith Grainger, Author of Wine Faults & Flaws Jan 24, 2024

When it comes to wine, what do descriptors like the musty attic, rotten eggs and Band-Aids mean? How does a wine's packaging make it more susceptible to faults? Are there ways you can fix a faulted wine at home rather than throwing out the bottle or returning it?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Keith Grainger, author of Wine Faults & Flaws: A Practical Guide.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a personally signed copy of Keith Grainger's terrific book, Wine Faults and Flaws: A Practical Guide.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Why is it helpful to smell your wine glass before pouring?

How can you gracefully handle receiving corked wine in a restaurant?

Why is cork taint more detectable in sparkling wine?

Which simple test can you do at home to confirm if your wine is really corked?

How can you identify oxidized wine, and why does this occur?

What is the difference between the beneficial oxidation in Sherry and oxidation in other types of wine?

What are the causes and ways to prevent reduced wine?

Should you be concerned about heat damage on wine?

How does Brettanomyces impact wine aroma, and what’s behind the differing opinions on its desirability?

Why are sulphites used in wine production, and should you be concerned about consuming them?

How can the histamines present in wine impact wine consumers?

What’s behind the increasing prevalence of lightstrike, and how does it impact wine?

How can you identify different types of pyrazines in wine?

Should you invest in a wine fault kit to learn more about wine faults?

Which simple tricks can you use to improve the taste of a reduced or corked wine?

Why would Keith love to share a bottle of wine with composer and conductor Ennio Morricone?

Key Takeaways

Different wine faults have different characteristic odours and flavours, which can tip you off to their presence.

A wine's packaging can make it more susceptible to faults.

His suggestions on ways you can fix a faulted wine at home rather than throwing out the bottle or returning it were clever.

Any oxygen that comes into the wine was in the cork in the first place and it's slowly released into the wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Keith Grainger

Keith Grainger is an award-winning wine writer, educator and consultant to the wine industry. He is the author of ‘Wine Faults and Flaws: A Practical Guide’, which won the coveted 2022 Prix de l’OIV.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/269.

268: Identifying Wine Faults and Flaws with Author Keith Grainger Jan 17, 2024

How can you tell when a wine is mildly corked versus you just don’t like it? Which main types of wine faults and how can you identify them? Why are inexpensive wines actually less prone to faults?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Keith Grainger, author of Wine Faults and Flaws: A Practical Guide, which won the coveted 2022 Prix de l’OIV.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a personally signed copy of Keith Grainger's terrific book, Wine Faults and Flaws: A Practical Guide.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose one person randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What is Keith’s latest book, Wine Faults and Flaws: A Practical Guide, about?

What was Keith’s motivation to explore wine faults in such depth and ultimately to write his book?

What’s the difference between a fault and a taint?

Why does Keith describe it as a “soft boundary” between good and faulty wines?

How can technically faulty wines still be considered excellent?

Which weird wine fault might surprise you to learn about?

How can you differentiate between the three main types of wine faults?

Why are inexpensive wines less prone to faults?

How have changes in the cork industry significantly reduced the incidence of cork taint?

What causes cork taint?

How do wine faults cost the industry up to 10 billion euros?

What might surprise you about the minuscule amount of cork taint that can ruin a wine?

How can you tell when a wine is mildly corked?

Key Takeaways

Keith was very helpful in his discussion of one of the main flaws of wine - when it’s corked - especially when it’s only mildly so. As he mentioned, if it affects a wine at a very low level, you don't get the mustiness and mushrooms or dry rot.

Keith had a terrific way of not only describing the main faults of wine but also how you identify them. He summarized them as falling under three categories: microbiological, chemical and physical faults.

I was surprised to learn that inexpensive wines are actually less prone to faults, but Keith’s explanation makes sense as to why that’s so. They’re produced in a more factory-type manner as opposed to artisan wines and natural wines.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Keith Grainger

Keith Grainger is an award-winning wine writer, educator and consultant to the wine industry. He is the author of ‘Wine Faults and Flaws: A Practical Guide’, which won the coveted 2022 Prix de l’OIV.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/268.

267: How to Savour Wine Over Time with Molly Watts of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast Jan 10, 2024

What does a healthy relationship with wine look like? Which tricks can you use to lower the alcohol content of your wine? How have my thoughts on overdrinking changed over the years and over three books?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by author Molly Watts of the Alcohol Minimalist Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How has my position on overdrinking changed over the years between writing my three books?

What did I do to better understand and manage overdrinking?

What does a healthy relationship with wine look like?

Why did I choose to be more mindful of my drinking rather than getting sober completely?

Why is the way wine is marketed to women problematic, and what has my role been in perpetuating these narratives?

How did the pandemic influence our collective drinking habits?

Why is it important to embrace a mindset of progress over perfection?

What are some strategies you can use to start drinking more mindfully?

How can you find great wines that with low or no alcohol?

Which tricks can you use to lower the alcohol content of your wine?

What benefits have I experienced from mindful drinking?

Why do I advocate for planning and moderation in alcohol consumption?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Molly Watts

Molly Watts is an author, podcast host and coach from Portland Oregon. She hosts the top-rated Alcohol Minimalist podcast where she shares science and strategies to help people change their drinking habits. She is the author of Breaking the Bottle Legacy, a book dedicated to daily habit drinkers and adult children of alcoholics who want to create a peaceful relationship with alcohol.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/267.

266: From Andes to Amazon: A Wine Lover's Guide to South America's Hidden Vineyards with Amanda Barnes Jan 03, 2024

Which types of global dishes can you pair with South American wines? What’s one of the best but little-known Chilean wine regions you need to try? Which types of wine do they make in other South American countries, such as Uruguay, Peru, Bolivia and Brazil?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amanda Barnes, author of The South America Wine Guide.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a copy of Amanda's beautiful hardcover book, The South America Wine Guide.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How did Argentina’s flagship white wine, Torrontés, develop and where is it grown?

Which types of food pair best with Torrontés and Malbec?

How does the iconic Argentinian empanada vary across different regions?

What is unique about how Fernet is consumed in Argentina?

How did the pandemic contribute to the craft gin and craft vermouth movement in Argentina?

How do the wine production volume and cultural attitudes towards wine vary between Argentina and Chile?

What were the main challenges that were uncovered by the discovery of Carmenère in Chile?

How did Tannat become the signature grape of Uraguay, and what’s unique about its growing requirements?

How did Peru become the first wine country in South America, and what’s behind the current wine renaissance?

Which wines from Bolivia should you try, and what’s behind their unique characteristics?

How has the Brazilian wine industry evolved over the years?

What does Amanda love about mountain white wines like Altos Las Hormigas Blanco?

What is it about Viñedos de Alcohuaz that gives it a beautiful tasting experience?

Why is an ice bag Amanda’s favourite wine gadget?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed hearing Amanda’s recommendations for which types of global dishes you can pair with South American wines. The highly aromatic Torrontes can handle equally flavourful dishes.

Amanda has inspired me to try more wines from Chile’s Elqui Valley. It’s amazing that some vineyards are planted at 2,200 metres above sea level.

I was interested to learn more about the types of wine they make in other South American countries, such as Uruguay, Peru, Bolivia and Brazil. I didn’t realize that Peru was the first wine region in South America.

About Amanda Barnes

Amanda Barnes is an award-winning British journalist and editor who specializes in wine and travel writing. She is an expert in South American wine and regions and a regular correspondent for international wine and travel publications (including Decanter, Fodor’s, SevenFifty, The Guardian & The Telegraph). She is currently studying to become a Master of Wine and is the author of The South America Wine Guide.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/266.

265: Malbec Magic: Argentina's Bold Twist on a Classic with Amanda Barnes, Author of The South America Wine Guide Dec 27, 2023

How did the South American wine industry develop? What might surprise you about the variety of wines produced in South America? How has Argentina's flagship red wine, Malbec, changed over the past five years?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amanda Barnes, author of The South America Wine Guide.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a copy of Amanda's beautiful hardcover book, The South America Wine Guide.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

When did Amanda realize she wanted to become a writer?

What was the motivation behind Amanda’s move from England to Argentina?

Why did Amanda decide to write The South America Wine Guide?

What will you learn from The South America Wine Guide?

Why did Amanda decide to self-publish?

How did the South American wine industry develop?

Why don’t we hear more about Chilean Malbec and how did Cabernet Sauvignon become the champion grape of Chile?

How has the style of Malbec evolved over the last 10 years?

What is meant by “graphite tannins”?

How do terroir and soil influence a wine’s flavour profile?

What percentage of Argentinian vineyards today are planted with Malbec?

How does elevation influence the characteristics of Malbec from different regions?

How do climatic factors like solar radiation and ozone influence the intensity and brightness of fruit in Chilean and Argentinian wines?

Key Takeaways

I loved that literature inspired Amanda to move to South America and then her fascination with the wines kept her there. She shares some terrific insights about how the South American wine industry developed, including the wild diversity of wines produced in the region.

She also opens up the world of Malbec, Argentina's flagship red wine, to us and how it’s changed over the past five years. As she notes, Malbec is planted in almost every wine region in the country so it’s an unparalleled opportunity to taste different terroirs. Some are made in the style of Pinot Noir rather than in the style of Cabernet Sauvignon.

She also observes that even though trends have taken over the population of vines in different periods, diversity still remains in the old vines.

I loved her story about going into the soil pits, especially since that’s where all great wine starts.

About Amanda Barnes

Amanda Barnes is an award-winning British journalist and editor who specializes in wine and travel writing. She is an expert in South American wine and regions and a regular correspondent for international wine and travel publications (including Decanter, Fodor’s, SevenFifty, The Guardian & The Telegraph). She is currently studying to become a Master of Wine and is the author of The South America Wine Guide.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/265.

264: Beer versus Wine Tasting, Cicerones versus Sommeliers with Mandy Naglich, Author of How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life Dec 20, 2023

What’s the difference between tasting wine and beer when you want to identify specific aromas and flavours? What are some of the similarities and differences between a Cicerone or beer sommelier and a wine sommelier? How do retronasal aromas give you a different, deeper sense of the aromas of both beer and wine?

In this Unreserved Wine Talk podcast episode, I'm chatting with author Mandy Naglich.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Mandy's new book, How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose two people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What are some of the similarities and differences between a Cicerone and a sommelier?

What was it like to win a national homebrew competition?

How did Mandy become interested in homebrewing?

Should your sense of smell be tested as part of your annual physical?

What does Mandy love about Pommery Pop Champagne?

Why should you consider using a Champagne tulip glass instead of a flute?

How does Allagash White bring together the beer and wine worlds?

What causes beer to hold its head longer compared to other beverages?

How does beer’s head affect the tasting experience?

What’s Mandy’s seven-step method for tasting beer?

When should you cover your glass before swirling?

How can you best utilize your retronasal smell pathway?

What types of food would pair well with Allagash White versus Pommery Pop Champagne?

How can a food pairing create a whole new flavour sensation?

Why does speaking aloud help you to solidify your tasting knowledge?

How can you challenge your perceptions of your taste?

What’s Mandy’s favourite wine gadget?

Why would Mandy love to share a bottle of wine with Oprah?

What message would Mandy share with the world on a billboard in downtown Manhattan?

Key Takeaways

I was fascinated with Mandy’s explanation and demonstration of the differences between tasting wine and beer. I had assumed the process would be the same and was surprised to find that it’s not.

I also found her explanation of the similarities and differences between a Cicerone and a sommelier helpful. I didn’t realize that the world of beer is so diverse (yes, my little wine-snob eyes have been opened) or that Cicerones are more involved in maintaining complex equipment than sommeliers.

I fully support her focus on how retronasal aromas reintroduce you to the richer, deeper aromas of both beer and wine and enable you to discover something new when you’re playing it backward as she says.

I also agree about using a tulip glass rather than a traditional champagne flute to better swirl and smell the wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mandy Naglich

Mandy Naglich is one of fewer than 100 Advanced Cicerones in the world, one of the highest certifications in beer expertise. She’s also a Certified Cider Professional and has her WSET in spirits. Mandy’s writing has been published in Vice, Taste of Home, Vine Pair, and Wine Enthusiast. She started her career in journalism at the Schieffer College of Communication at Texas Christian University.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/264.

263: Tasting Bliss Points & Making Wines Memorable with Mandy Naglich, Author of How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life Dec 13, 2023

You love to eat, but do you know how to taste? What is a bliss point when it comes to food or tasting? What makes our most memorable meals and wines delicious? How can you make sure to bring home the best experiences from a wine trip?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Mandy Naglich who has just published How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Mandy's new book, How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What did Mandy learn about hospitality through your first wine-pairing experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Belgium?

Why did Mandy write about Rick Bayless’ blind tasting experience in her book?

What made San Diego wine country so memorable for Mandy?

How can you make sure to bring home the best experiences from a wine trip?

Why did Mandy decide to write How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life?

What was the most unusual insight Mandy gained while writing her book?

Which feedback surprised Mandy the most from readers of her book?

How can we judge the acidity of anything from a cup of tea and wine to a square of dark chocolate?

Why does salt make foods taste less bitter?

How do our tastebuds respond to food temperature?

What might surprise you about your mouth’s sensitivity to texture?

What is a bliss point when it comes to food or tasting?

How can you distinguish between pomme fruit and stone fruit?

What are the hallmarks of different categories of aromas?

Why would you not want to open an expensive bottle of wine while playing loud music?

Key Takeaways

I found Mandy’s explanation of the difference between eating and tasting fascinating, as well as her discussion about the bliss point and how individual it is.

Her tips on how to make the most of your experiences in wine country were helpful.

I agree with her that your environment really affects your enjoyment of whatever you're drinking. It’s the 360 degrees of flavour and contributes to our most memorable meals. It was interesting how losing your sense of sight can obscure what you’re tasting.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mandy Naglich

Mandy Naglich is one of fewer than 100 Advanced Cicerones in the world, one of the highest certifications in beer expertise. She’s also a Certified Cider Professional and has her WSET in spirits. Mandy’s writing has been published in Vice, Taste of Home, Vine Pair, and Wine Enthusiast. She started her career in journalism at the Schieffer College of Communication at Texas Christian University.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/263.

262: Sonoma Wines + the Dangers of Drinking for a Living with Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa of the Wine Road Podcast & Jeff Sammut of Canada Now Dec 06, 2023

How did I come up with the wine pairings mentioned throughout Wine Witch on Fire? Why is wine marketed so differently to men versus women? What can you do to support your mental health in an era where you have to be online?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa on the Wine Road Podcast and Jeff Sammut on Canada Now.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Could an online pile-on like I experienced in 2012 happen today?

What can you do to support your mental health in an era where you have to be online?

Why did I use real people’s names in my memoir?

How did I come up with the wine pairings mentioned throughout Wine Witch on Fire?

Why is wine marketed so differently to men versus women?

How do I manage the different aspects of an online-based career?

Which Sonoma wineries must you visit on your next trip?

Which wine pairs best with catharsis?

What was it like when I realized my husband of 20 years wanted a divorce?

Looking back, were there signs that I missed?

How did I communicate with my son about the difficult situation that was my divorce?

Why did feeling alone lead me to reexamine my whole life?

Why is it important to me that we have more conversations about overdrinking?

How did I manage to curb my overdrinking after the year from hell?

What is it about podcasting that makes it great for connecting with people?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About The Wine Road Podcast and Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa

Marcy Gordon and Beth Costa bring a wealth of knowledge and personal experience regarding, food, wine, events, and travel in and around Northern Sonoma County. Dubbed the Click and Clack of Wine—their snappy banter and laugh filled show provides insider tips on wine tasting and advice for listeners planning everything from a day trip to a two week stay in Wine Country.

Marcy Gordon is a freelance wine and travel writer. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including Wine Enthusiast, Forbes Travel Guide, Sonoma Discoveries, and The San Francisco Chronicle. In 2017 she was awarded a fellowship to the prestigious Symposium for Professional Wine Writers. Her blog Come for the Wine was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Wine Blogs in 2015.

Beth Costa is the Executive Director of the Wine Road. Beth has been at the helm of Wine Road for the past 17 years. Prior that she managed the tasting rooms for Kendall-Jackson Winery. Beth has lived in Sonoma County for the past 30 years and loves to get out and explore – rivers, redwoods and the ocean are big draws!

About Canada Now and Jeff Sammut

Canada Now shares the stories that matter to Canadians, going beyond the headlines to shine a spotlight on the cities, towns and people that motivate and inspire us each and every day. Host Jeff Sammut goes coast to coast across the country talking to Canadians about Canadians and the stories that affect us all, big and small.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/262.

261: Mood & Wine Pairings + British Columbia's Best Wine Regions with Luke Whittall, Author of 50 Must-Try Wines from BC and Ontario Nov 29, 2023

Why should you consider mood and experience when pairing wines? What is a lustful wine? What do you need to know about British Columbia’s wine regions?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and host of The Sipsters Wine Podcast, Luke Whittall.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Luke's new book, The Sipster's Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try Ontario Wines.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What makes the Golden Mile Bench so special?

Which wineries on the Golden Mile Bench should not be missed?

Why should you consider mood and experience when pairing wines?

What is a lustful wine?

Why does Luke describe Vancouver Island as the Italy of BC?

Which labels should you look for from Vancouver Island?

What makes the red wines of the Similkameen Valley unique?

What do you need to know about the other BC wine regions including Fraser Valley, Gulf islands, Kootenays, Lillooet, Shuswap, and Thompson Valley?

What does BC need to do in order to thrive as a wine region for the next five to ten years?

How do Luke’s The Sipster’s Pocket Guides differ from other wine guides?

Key Takeaways

I love that Luke likes to pair wines to moods rather than simply food. I think our emotional state and occasion are often far better predictors of a great match than whether your asparagus was oven-roasted or steamed. I especially like his description of a lustful wine.

Luke continues to share surprising insights about British Columbia’s wine regions and wines. I’m intrigued with the way Golden Mile Bench wines retain their acidity and structure, and am motivated to visit that area again.

I enjoyed his notion that there are times when you can tell that the wine really likes you.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Luke Whittall

Luke Whittall has worked in cellars, vineyards, and wine shops since 2005. He has authored or co-authored 4 books on wine and is currently a wine instructor at Okanagan College. His most recent book, The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines follows up on the success of The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines, and continues to mark a new direction in wine writing.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/261.

260: BC's Wild Diversity, Deep Lake Effect and Promising Future with Luke Whittall, Author of 50 Must-Try Wines in BC and Ontario Nov 22, 2023

What are five things that will surprise you about the wine regions and wines of British Columbia? What are some top tips to help you get the most from your visit to BC? Which challenges does this west coast wine industry face going forward?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and host of The Sipsters Wine Podcast, Luke Whittall.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Luke's new book, The Sipster's Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try Ontario Wines.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and let me know that you've posted a review of the podcast. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was Luke’s inspiration for writing Valleys of Wine: A Taste of British Columbia’s Wine History?

Why did John Schreiner choose Luke to help him write the sixth edition of his Okanagan Wine Tour Guide?

Why are authentic stories important for a winery and how can impact their success?

How does the wine industry in British Columbia compare to Ontario?

What are some of the geographical limitations of wine production BC?

Why is the growth of the BC wine industry slowing?

How is climate change changing the profile of the wine industry?

How has the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires impacted British Columbia?

What’s the difference between a smoky flavour in wine versus smoke taint?

How do the production levels of BC and Ontario compare?

What makes up the unique climate of the BC wine regions?

What might surprise you about the Okanagan region?

What are Luke’s top travel tips for visiting the Okanagan?

Key Takeaways

There were so many fascinating nuggets about BC that Luke shared, from the profound influence of the lake to how embers from wildfires were able to traverse across it.

The range of wine styles and grapes is both a blessing in its diversity and experimentation and a curse in the optimization that still needs to happen as BC matures as a wine region.

Luke’s tips for visiting the region were helpful, particularly breaking up your journey into a few days and several wineries that have restaurants.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Luke Whittall

Luke Whittall has worked in cellars, vineyards, and wine shops since 2005. He has authored or co-authored 4 books on wine and is currently a wine instructor at Okanagan College. His most recent book, The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines follows up on the success of The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines, and continues to mark a new direction in wine writing.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/260.

259: Proactive Wine Farming and Wine Tourism with Anna Brittain of Napa Green Nov 15, 2023

How can we, as wine consumers, support environmental change in the wine industry? What is proactive farming as it relates to growing vines for wine? Does wine tourism have a positive or negative impact on the environment?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with sustainability expert Anna Brittain.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why is good soil health foundational to vineyards, both from the wine and sustainability perspectives?

What is proactive farming?

How can the wine industry increase its emphasis on social justice and diversity and inclusion?

Why do climate action and regenerative agriculture make the ultimate umbrella for sustainability efforts in the wine industry?

What is the environmental impact of wine tourism?

What can we do as consumers to advocate for or induce change in the wine industry?

Are there commonalities between different wine regions and the climate challenges they face?

What is Domaine Carneros doing differently as a dedicated sustainability leader?

What does Anna love about Domaine Carneros Taittinger and what foods would it be best paired with?

Which breakfast foods could you pair with the classic St. Supéry Cabernet Sauvignon?

Why does Anna believe we need to focus on improving quality and sustainable practices in the wine industry rather than expanding?

What are Anna’s favourite childhood foods to pair with wine?

What is Anna’s favourite wine book?

Why would Anna love to share a glass of wine with Brené Brown?

Why is it crucial to take action on climate change in the here and now?

Key Takeaways

Anna has some concrete steps for how we, as wine consumers, support environmental change in the wine industry. Every bit helps, and the need is urgent. We all have purchasing power - we vote with our dollars, and they send strong signals to the industry to advocate for change.

I found her concept of proactive farming as it relates to growing vines for wine fascinating.

She also has an interesting take on wine tourism’s impact on the environment.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Anna Brittain

Anna Brittain has worked locally, nationally and internationally on environmental management and policy with organizations ranging from the environmental economics think tank Resources for the Future in Washington, DC to the International Union for Conservation of Nature in Hanoi, Vietnam. She has spent over 12 years facilitating and growing sustainability in the wine industry, with expertise in communications and certification standards.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/259.

258: Why Sustainable Winegrowing Matters with Anna Brittain of Napa Green Nov 08, 2023

Which aspect of winemaking has the greatest impact on the environment? Are you curious about the difference between sustainable and organic winemaking? What are the six pillars of sustainable winegrowing leadership?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with sustainability expert Anna Brittain.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How did Anna realize she wanted to dedicate her career to environmental work?

What drives Anna to work in climate action and sustainability within the wine industry?

What does it mean to be voted as “the most intriguing environmentalist”?

How did the global pandemic contribute to the worst moment in Anna’s wine career?

What was the impact of COVID-19 on consumer investment in sustainability and climate action?

What was it like to put together the first climate and wine symposium?

Is wine production bad for the environment?

What does it mean for the wine industry to be a leader in soil-to-bottle sustainability?

What are the biggest misconceptions about sustainability?

Why did Anna create the six pillars of sustainable winegrowing leadership?

How can you distinguish between sustainability, organic, and biodynamic practices?

Why are there so many different organic certifications in the US?

How can vineyards optimize irrigation systems and water use?

What does it take to start dry farming?

How can energy efficiency potentially produce cost savings for vineyards?

What do wineries need to think about when it comes to waste management and supply chain emissions?

Is it irresponsible for wineries to continue to use extremely heavy-weight bottles?

Key Takeaways

Anna provides an excellent global view of wine’s impact on the environment rather than just focusing narrowly or organic winemaking or sustainability.

She gave us a clear definition on the differences between sustainable and organic winemaking. I think most people might assume that wine made organically is also farmed sustainably, but that’s not always the case.

She also presents clear and compelling facts such as that 40-50% of the emissions from a winery operation come from packaging and distribution alone.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Anna Brittain

Anna Brittain has worked locally, nationally and internationally on environmental management and policy with organizations ranging from the environmental economics think tank Resources for the Future in Washington, DC to the International Union for Conservation of Nature in Hanoi, Vietnam. She has spent over 12 years facilitating and growing sustainability in the wine industry, with expertise in communications and certification standards.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/258.

257: How Much is Too Much Wine, Old Rosé and Hard-Won Wisdom with the Women of Ill Repute, Wendy Mesley & Maureen Holloway Nov 01, 2023

What might surprise you about Rosé wine? Is being a supertaster an advantage in the wine industry? Do you feel you’re drinking too much wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Wendy Mesley and Maureen Holloway for their podcast, Women of Ill Repute.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why didn’t I apologize after being called out for using other people’s reviews on my website?

How does the herd mentality bring out the worst in people online?

What is it about the wine industry that continues to feed into the deeply-rooted sexism?

How does wine marketing perpetuate stereotypes and negatively impact women?

What does it mean to be a super taster?

How do I review so many bottles of wine?

Why is it important for a wine reviewer to expectorate?

What is it about artichokes that makes them hard to pair with alcohol?

What might surprise you about Rosé wine?

What are the five aspects of tasting wine?

How has the vocabulary of wine evolved over time?

What can you do to develop your smell vocabulary?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Women of Ill Repute

Women of Ill Repute is a compliment. And not just for women! Wendy Mesley and Maureen Holloway have left CBC and CHFI to chat with sassy women about sex, family, politics, and media. Lots of secrets and no room for shame. Is it journalism or comedy? It’s both. Smart talk with tv and radio stars, comedians, authors, lawyers, politicos, restaurant icons and more. All of them brave, fierce and funny.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/257.

256: How to Spot a Fake Wine and Defining Wine Authenticity with Rebecca Gibb Oct 25, 2023

How can you avoid buying a fake bottle of wine? What makes a wine truly authentic? How did Rudy Kurniawan get so far in his fraudulent schemes worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and why did it ultimately unravel?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Rebecca Gibb, author of Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to be the lucky recipients of a copy of Rebecca Gibb's book, Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud. To enter, email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What caused the wine scandal in the 1980s, which devastated the Austrian wine scene?

How did the Austrian wine industry turn around its image and recover?

What was the story behind the famous Thomas Jefferson wine fraud scandal?

How did Rudy Kurniawan get so far in his fraudulent schemes and why did it ultimately unravel?

What makes a wine truly authentic?

How is modern technology being used to detect fraud?

Why is Don & Petie Kladstrup’s book, Wine and War, one of Rebecca’s favourites?

What is it about food and wine pairing that Rebecca doesn’t like?

Which famous person would Rebecca love to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

Rebecca shared some great tips on how we can avoid buying a fake bottle of wine.

I found her larger discussion of what makes a wine truly authentic fascinating.

The story of Rudy Kurniawan and his fraudulent schemes worth hundreds of thousands of dollars sounds like the script of a movie or Netflix special.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Rebecca Gibb

Rebecca Gibb is an editor for the online wine publication Vinous, covering the wines of New Zealand and the Loire Valley. In addition, she owns a wine and spirit jigsaw business, Puzzle Cru. Rebecca is one of only 416 Masters of Wine in the world and was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award and the Bollinger Medal in recognition of her superb tasting ability.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/256.

255: Wine Crime & Con Artists with Rebecca Gibb, Author of Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud Oct 18, 2023

Are you curious about the greatest con artists in the world of wine? What creative but illegal ingredients have been added to wine to cut costs and boost profits? What is it about tales of crime and greed that draw us in?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Rebecca Gibb, author of Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to be the lucky recipients of a copy of Rebecca Gibb's book, Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud. To enter, email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was it like to represent Great Britain as an athlete at the age of 19?

Where did Rebecca’s interest in the cello come from?

Why has Rebecca decided to donate a portion of her book’s royalties to finding a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

Why did Rebecca decide to write about the riots in Champagne in 1911?

What is it about tales of crime and greed that draw us in?

What’s the meaning of the MICE acronym used to describe the motivations behind committing fraud?

How have coercion and ego played a role in wine fraud over the years?

Do you have to be a wine person to appreciate Rebecca’s book, Vintage Crime?

What was the most popular method of wine fraud in Ancient Rome?

Which unusual methods did vintners try in an effort to restore vineyards after the phylloxera epidemic in the late 1800s?

How did it come to be that there was more Champagne being sold than produced during World War I?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed Rebecca’s stories about the greatest con artists in the world of wine. I think we all love a juicy story about people trying to get one over on others. Call it whatever the wine version is of schadenfreude.

I agree that part of what helps con artists get away with what they do is that people don't want to admit they have been duped. That’s pride and human nature.

I was intrigued by the creative but illegal ingredients that have been added to wine to cut costs and boost profits. There's a fine line between what's adulteration and what isn't.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Rebecca Gibb

Rebecca Gibb is an editor for the online wine publication Vinous, covering the wines of New Zealand and the Loire Valley. In addition, she owns a wine and spirit jigsaw business, Puzzle Cru. Rebecca is one of only 416 Masters of Wine in the world and was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award and the Bollinger Medal in recognition of her superb tasting ability.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/255.

254: New Australian Wines & Regions + Grenache's Resurgence with Jane Lopes, Author of How to Drink Australian Oct 11, 2023

Are you curious about new Australian wine styles and regions? Why is Grenache experiencing a resurgence in Australia right now? What was the most devastating part of several Court of Master Sommelier scandals?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with sommelier and author Jane Lopes.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you are going to be the lucky recipients of a copy of Jane Lopes' books. One of you will win Vignette: Stories Of Life And Wine In 100 Bottles, and another will win How To Drink Australian. To enter, email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What’s it like to experience the journey of becoming a Master Sommelier?

Do we need more outlets for education in the wine industry?

What was it like being a woman experiencing the unfair and sexist consequences of several Master Sommelier scandals?

How would the industry benefit from more transparency and an overhaul of the Court of Master Sommeliers certification process?

How is How To Drink Australian different from other books about Australian wine?

What was the motivation behind writing How To Drink Australian?

What are some of the unique characteristics of Australian wine and wine regions?

Why is Grenache experiencing a resurgence in Australia right now?

What’s the tasting experience like for Ngeringa 2018 Summit Vineyard Chardonnay and Bird on a Wire 2015 Syrah?

Why should you try a wider range of Australian wine?

Key Takeaways

I loved Jane’s fresh take on new Australian wine styles and regions. I knew that Australia has plenty of warm regions and a number of cool areas, but I didn’t realize it also has some of the coldest wine regions in the world.

Jane has put Australian grenache on my radar. I love this grape and wine from the Rhone and am keen to do more side-by-side comparison tastings with those from Australia.

The Court of Master Sommelier exam scandal had a pretty devastating impact on candidates like Jane, who had studied for years and invested thousands of dollars to prepare for it only to have that hard-earned recognition taken away. Coupled with Master Sommelier sexual harassment scandal, I hope that serious reforms are underway with the organization.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jane Lopes

Jane Lopes is a Nashville-based sommelier, author, and importer. In 2020, Jane and her husband Jonathan Ross co-founded their own Australian wine imports company: Legend. Jane’s second book, How to Drink Australian (co-authored with her husband), was published in 2023.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/254.

253: An Emotional Guide to Wine + How to Get a Solid Wine Education with Jane Lopes Oct 04, 2023

Which physical aspects of working in a restaurant might surprise you? Why is it hard to get a good wine education? How can an emotional guide to wine deepen your pleasure in it?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with sommelier and author, Jane Lopes.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Two of you are going to be the lucky recipients of a copy of Jane Lopes' books. One of you will win Vignette: Stories Of Life And Wine In 100 Bottles, and another will win How To Drink Australian. To enter, email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Why did Jane decide to study Renaissance literature at the University of Chicago?

How did Jane transition from academia to the wine industry?

What were the sensory and social aspects of wine that initially attracted Jane?

Why is it hard to get a good wine education?

Which physical aspects of working in a restaurant might surprise you?

How did Jane incorporate creative wine pairings and experimentation in her time as wine director?

What was the inspiration for the name of Jane’s first book, Vignette?

Why did Jane include resources for alcohol use disorder in her book?

What was the most surprising insight that Jane discovered while writing Vignette?

Why did Jane agree to be a part of Esquire's television series Uncorked, despite her anxiety?

What happened to Jane before her advanced sommelier exam?

Key Takeaways

Working in a restaurant is incredibly grueling both physically and emotionally. Thos in it are prime to excessive drinking and that’s why the hospitality industry, which includes both restaurants and wineries, has the highest rate of substance abuse among any profession.

Jane makes some excellent points about why it’s hard to get a good wine education, both in terms of cost and the variety of wines you need to taste, especially if you want to make it your profession.

I love her approach in her first book as an emotional guide to wine to deepen your pleasure in it.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jane Lopes

Jane Lopes is a Nashville-based sommelier, author, and importer. In September of 2019, Jane finally put her University of Chicago literature degree to good use in publishing her first book, a personal and educational guide to wine called Vignette: Stories of Life and Wine in 100 Bottles. In 2020, Jane and her husband Jonathan Ross co-founded their own Australian wine imports company: Legend. Jane’s second book, How to Drink Australian (co-authored with her husband), will publish in September 2023.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/253.

252: Taboo Wine Topics: The Alcoholic Buzz of Wine + Shaming Sweet Wines with Calla Bischoff & Kara Ferreira Sep 27, 2023

Why does it seem taboo to talk about the intoxicating effects of wine? What’s prompting so much wine shaming of those who enjoy easy-drinking commercial wines that have residual sugar, and why do these wines play an important role in the wine market? How can memoirs have more emotional impact than biographies, and what’s the difference between the two?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Calla Bischoff and Kara Ferreira on their Boozy Biddies Talk Wine podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why did I dedicate Wine Witch on Fire to my mother?

What makes memoirs often more emotionally impactful than biographies?

Why is it taboo to talk about the intoxicating effects of wine?

What is it about wine that feeds into the perception of sophistication and elegance compared to other alcoholic beverages?

How can you integrate the intellectual aspect of wine with the buzz?

Why do I believe commercial wines serve an important role in the industry?

How did I decide which wines to include in Wine Witch on Fire?

What are some of the challenges still being faced by women and people of color in the industry?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Calla Bischoff and Kara Ferreira

Calla Bischoff is an east coast kid at heart who has made her way out west where she worked as a wine supplier for seven years. She’s pivoted in the industry, now focusing on selling corks and oak barrels to distilleries around North America, but is physically incapable of staying away from wine even if her sales focus on the harder stuff.

Kara Ferreira is still an East Coast kid – despite being born in California – who grew up drinking Italian wine at home with her Italian family (which, thanks to Ancestry.com, we now know is only about 6% Italian). She also took a course on Italian wine while studying abroad, so naturally this makes her an expert.

Together they created Boozy Biddies Talk Wine, a fun and irreverent exploration of wine for people who love drinking it and want to know just a bit more about it.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/252.

251: Pinot Noir, the Nervous Breakdown Grape + Navigating Bad Life Vintages with the Boozy Biddies Sep 20, 2023

How do bad vintages in life help us to thrive? Why is Pinot Noir the grape that teeters on the edge of a nervous breakdown? How can moderation help to preserve our passion for wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Calla Bischoff and Kara Ferreira on their Boozy Biddies Talk Wine podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What makes Wine Witch on Fire different from my first two books?

How do bad vintages in life help us to thrive?

Why is Pinot Noir my favourite grape?

How did the process of writing my memoir help me to heal and connect with others?

Has the wine industry changed in recent years when it comes to women and people of colour?

Why was it important to me to openly share my mental health struggles?

Are there parallels between my experiences in the tech and wine industries?

How can moderation help to preserve your passion for wine?

What types of moderation tips will you find in Wine Witch on Fire?

What do wine professionals need to be aware of when it comes to drinking on the job?

Why is it tricky for many women in the wine industry to navigate professional social situations?

What is it like to go up against stereotypes while trying to build your career in the wine industry?

How has misogyny been threaded throughout wine writing?

Which surprising Rosé food pairing is my guilty pleasure?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Calla Bischoff and Kara Ferreira

Calla Bischoff is an east coast kid at heart who has made her way out west where she worked as a wine supplier for seven years. She’s pivoted in the industry, now focusing on selling corks and oak barrels to distilleries around North America, but is physically incapable of staying away from wine even if her sales focus on the harder stuff.

Kara Ferreira is still an East Coast kid – despite being born in California – who grew up drinking Italian wine at home with her Italian family (which, thanks to Ancestry.com, we now know is only about 6% Italian). She also took a course on Italian wine while studying abroad, so naturally this makes her an expert.

Together they created Boozy Biddies Talk Wine, a fun and irreverent exploration of wine for people who love drinking it and want to know just a bit more about it.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/251.

250: The Secrets of Barbaresco, Barolo and Mourvedre with Andy James, Author of Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvedre Sep 13, 2023

Why is Bandol the only appellation to lead with Mourvèdre? What would surprise you about the northern Italian grape and wine Barbaresco? What would it be like to spend half a day picking grapes in a Sauvignon Blanc vineyard?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Andy James, author of Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvèdre.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Andy James' terrific new book, Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvèdre. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Why is Bandol the only appellation to lead with Mourvèdre?

What are Andy’s favourite pairings for Mourvèdre Rosé?

What was it like to spend half a day picking in a Sauvignon Blanc vineyard?

Who are some of the famous past residents of Bandol?

What did Andy learn from interviewing famous Italian winemaker Angelo Gaja?

How have Barbaresco and Barolo wines changed over the decades?

What can you expect from Domaine Le Galantin Bandol Rosé?

Why does Andy like Lehmann’s Synergie and RIEDEL’s Winewings glasses?

What’s the tasting experience like for G.D. Vajra Barolo Ravera?

How can you pair G.D. Vajra Barolo Ravera with food?

What controversial take does Andy have on decanting?

Which fascinating book can you read to learn about the history of Burgundy?

Why is a thermometer Andy’s favourite wine gadget?

Which English writer would Andy love to share a bottle of breakfast Champagne with?

Key Takeaways

Andy’s explanation of why Bandol is the only wine region to lead with Mourvèdre was fascinating. As he said, there’s a salinity and freshness in the wines, good Mourvedre has to see the sea.

I enjoyed his description of the northern Italian grape and wine Barbaresco and the changes it’s experiencing.

He painted a terrific picture of what it’s like to spend a day picking grapes in a Sauvignon Blanc vineyard.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Andy James

Andrew James is a Canadian who received a doctorate in 20th century English literature from Ulster University. He is currently a professor in the School of Commerce at Meiji University in Tokyo. He is the author of a monograph on Kingsley Amis and numerous essays on literature, biography and literary theory, but he is also a wine lover.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/250.

249: Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvèdre with Author Dr. Andy James Sep 06, 2023

How does Mourvèdre taste different from other southern French grapes that also produce full-bodied red wines? Did you know that Mourvèdre can age for up to 40 years but has stages where it shuts down completely? What would a 20-year-old Rosé taste like?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Andy James, author of Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvèdre.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Andy James' terrific new book, Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvèdre. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What was it that drew Andy to make the move to Japan?

Why did Andy write books about Kingsley Amis and Graham Greene?

Why might you enjoy visiting the southern French town of Bandol for your next wine holiday?

What inspired Andy to write about Bandol wines?

What’s the format of Andy’s latest book, Bandol Wine and the Magic of Mourvèdre, and how does it differ from previous books about Bandol wines?

What’s it like to taste a 20-year-old Rosé?

Do Rosés have good aging capacity?

How much of the Bandol wine industry is attributed to Rosé production?

What surprising results came out of a blind tasting of €3 and €23 Bandol wines?

Which characteristics can you expect from the Mourvèdre grape in its youth?

What changes will you notice as Mourvèdre ages?

Why should you take the cork out of your Mourvèdre a day or two before drinking?

Key Takeaways

Andy gave a great description of how Mourvèdre tastes different from other full-bodied southern French red wines. I understand why it also often needs a blending partner.

I found it interesting that Mourvèdre can age for up to 40 years but has stages where it shuts down completely. I’m also going to try his suggestion of removing the cork for a day or two next time I open a bottle to see if it makes a difference.

I would have never thought a 20-year-old Rosé would even be drinkable let alone have some interesting taste components and contrasts.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Andy James

Andrew James is a Canadian who received a doctorate in 20th century English literature from Ulster University. He is currently a professor in the School of Commerce at Meiji University in Tokyo. He is the author of a monograph on Kingsley Amis and numerous essays on literature, biography and literary theory, but he is also a wine lover.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/249.

248: Austrian Grüner Veltliner's Versatility & the Magic of Minerality with Terry Theise Aug 30, 2023

Is minerality a taste, a texture, or something else when it comes to wine? Why is Austrian Gruner Veltliner more versatile than Riesling? How do you find a great grower Champagne?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Terry Theise, a much-respected expert on and importer of boutique wines from Germany, Austria, and Champagne.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Terry Theise's terrific book, Reading Between the Vines. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

What do people misunderstand about Riesling?

Which questions can you ask retailers to better explore the world of Riesling?

What are some of the best and worst Riesling pairings that Terry has had?

How can you best pair Riesling with food?

Why was it difficult to change people’s opinion of Austrian wine?

What is it about German and Austrian wines that keeps them from being on top of the wine world?

Why does Terry say Sauvignon Blanc can sometimes be described as vulgar?

What makes grower Champagnes different?

What prompted Terry to write his first book, Reading Between The Wines?

Why did Terry want to make the case for What Makes a Wine Worth Drinking in his second book?

Key Takeaways

I agree with Terry that minerality is an incredibly useful metaphor to refer to a wine’s texture and something more. Riesling is one of the greatest and most fundamental wines when it comes to minerality.

I love Terry’s description of petrichor, the smell of pent-up, super-charged air just before a thunderstorm. It makes wines smell and taste super vivid.

Austrian Gruner Veltliner is more flexible than Riesling when it comes to food pairings. It’s such a lovely, undervalued wine worth exploring.

Great grower Champagne is also worth seeking out, though far more of a challenge as these producers are so small and scattered throughout the region.

I love Terry’s phrase that wine is an important glide path into the world of beauty.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Terry Theise

Terry Theise is a much-respected expert on and importer of boutique wines from Germany, Austria, and Champagne. He has published two bestselling books—Reading Between the Wines and What Makes a Wine Worth Drinking: In Praise of the Sublime. His articles have appeared in The World of Fine Wine and other magazines. Terry has also won the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional, Wine & Spirits Man of the Year Award and Food and Wine magazine’s Importer of the Year Award.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/248.

247: Soul-Searching German Riesling with Terry Theise, Author of What Makes a Wine Worth Drinking Aug 23, 2023

Are you curious about the soul-searching nature of German Riesling? Why is Riesling the best wine for tasters to train themselves to improve their skills? Why shouldn’t you approach a new glass of wine with anticipation?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Terry Theise, a much-respected expert on and importer of boutique wines from Germany, Austria, and Champagne.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Terry Theise's terrific book, Reading Between the Vines. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Why is it important to find a passion outside of your work?

What are some of Terry’s most memorable moments from his childhood years in India?

When did Terry rediscover his passion for beautiful writing?

What is the relationship between wine and language?

How did Riesling become Terry’s North Star?

Why is Riesling the best way for an amateur wine taster to train themself?

How does Terry differentiate between petrichor and minerality?

What does it mean to “arrive at the rim of wine without expectations”?

How does the dynamic interaction between taster and wine enhance the experience?

Why does Terry say that wine keeps him humble?

What kind of mistakes are often made in wine tasting?

What are some of the tricks of the trade for guessing how long a wine will last?

Key Takeaways

Terry’s passion for German Riesling reignites my own: it is both under-valued and sublime

He makes some excellent points on why Riesling is the best wine for tasters to train themselves to improve their skills.

He makes a wise point that those of us who are passionate about our work need to have other things for which we have an equal passion to maintain balance.

I like his mindset when approaching a new glass of wine without anticipation or expectations to allow room for surprise and delight. If only we did that with people, too.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Terry Theise

Terry Theise is a much respected expert on and importer of boutique wines from Germany, Austria, and Champagne. He has published two bestselling books—Reading Between the Wines and What Makes a Wine Worth Drinking: In Praise of the Sublime. His articles have appeared in The World of Fine Wine and other magazines. Terry has also won the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Wine and Spirits Professional, Wine & Spirits Man of the Year Award and Food and Wine magazine’s Importer of the Year Award.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/247.

246: What is a Wine Witch and Why Use it in a Book Title? I Share Why on The Wonderful World of Wine Podcast Aug 16, 2023

Which Canadian wine regions should you add to your must-try and must-visit lists? What makes some of the wine designations and certifications problematic? Why do stories about witches run through my new book Wine Witch on Fire?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Mark Lenzi and Kim Simone, hosts of The Wonderful World of Wine Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why do I identify with the witch theme in Wine Witch on Fire?

What was the inciting incident that kicked off the worst year of my life?

Looking back, would I have handled the situation differently?

Was it difficult for me to write this book and why bother?

Why did I choose to approach my writing with an entertaining, conversational style?

How did I work wine writing into Wine Witch on Fire, with it being a memoir?

Which Canadian wine regions should you add to your must-try and must-visit lists?

What was it like to lose my sense of smell and why is it so powerful?

Why are some of the wine designations and certifications problematic?

What are some of the things I do to remain intentional about how much I’m drinking?

Who can benefit from the Wine Witch on Fire Book Club Guide?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mark Lenzi & Kim Simone

Kim Simone is passionate about wine and making it accessible, engaging, and fun. With a career of almost two decades in the wine business she most recently was the Corporate Sommelier for the Legal Sea Foods restaurant group where she assisted Master of Wine Sandy Block curate the wine lists for multiple restaurant concepts and developed educational materials for their staff. Her winding career path has included a stint selling wine wholesale for Ruby Wines, hosting an AIRBNB Experience focusing on the beverage culture of Colonial Boston, and teaching at Boston University.

Mark Lenzi is the owner of Franklin Liquors and founder of The Franklin Wine Club. Mark is a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and Spirits (CSS) by the Society of Wine Educators. The first in MA to hold a California Wine Appellation Specialist (CWAS) title from the San Francisco Wine School, Mark holds several designations as a French Wine Scholar(FWS)/instructor, Spanish Wine Scholar (SWS) by the Wine Scholar Guild, Italian Wine Specialist (IWS) by the North American Sommelier Association, Oregon Wine Expert (OWE) by the Napa Valley Wine Academy, Italian Wine Maestro (IWM) Vinitaly International (First USA Class), and Italian Wine Scholar (IWS*) by The Wine Scholar Guild.

Kim and Mark currently co-host the radio program and podcast The Wonderful World of Wine.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/246.

245: New South African Wines and Pinotage Misconceptions with Dr. Winnie Bowman Aug 09, 2023

Are you curious about new South African wine styles and regions to try? What do most people misunderstand about Pinotage wine? Is it really necessary to spit when doing a wine tasting?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with international wine and spirit judge Dr. Winnie Bowman.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How can you distinguish between competition medal values and avoid misleading wine labels?

What was it like for Winnie to teach hotel students who were reluctant to spit during wine tasting?

Which aspects of the South African wine industry would probably surprise you?

How did certain wine regions in South Africa transform their reputations and become highly sought-after?

Where did some of the misconceptions around Pinotage originate and what are the facts?

What does Winnie love about Creation Glenn’s Chardonnay and what can you expect when tasting?

Why should South Africa be on your must-visit list of wine regions?

Key Takeaways

I loved listening to Winnie talk about new South African wine styles and regions to try as well as the fact that the country gets so many sunshine hours for ripening and deepening flavour.

I appreciated her background on the Pinotage grape and that it’s not the robust wine that many people assume it is, and can be quite elegant.

Her story about the fellow judge not spitting was delightful.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dr. Winnie Bowman

Dr. Winnie Bowman is a physiotherapist, biomedical scientist and holds a PhD in Education, specializing in Didactics. She is an international wine and spirit judge as well as a Cape Master. Winnie writes about wine, teaches, presents corporate tastings and appears regularly on radio and television wine shows.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/245.

244: Should You Buy Wines Based on Competition Medals? Dr. Winnie Bowman, Cape Wine Master, Has Thoughts Aug 02, 2023

What is a Cape Wine Master? Should you buy wines based on medals won from competitions? What does the future of wine recommendations look like?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with international wine and spirit judge, Dr. Winnie Bowman.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why did Winnie transition out of her previous careers and into the wine industry?

What is a Cape Wine Master, and how is it different from a Master of Wine?

How costly is it to become a Cape Wine Master?

What are some of Winnie’s earliest memories of wine?

Which types of sweet wines is South Africa known for?

What are some challenges faced by women working to make a name for themselves in the wine industry?

How did a vertical tasting in Rome feature in Winnie’s best moment of her wine career so far?

How did Super Tuscan winemakers defy traditional wine regulations and come out on top?

What interesting notes did Winnie notice in tasting 50 years of Sassicaia wines?

How does tasting technique help you avoid palate fatigue?

What have been some of the most interesting wine competitions to judge?

Which hard-to-find grapes has Winnie encountered while judging wine competitions?

How do wine competitions and the medals they award impact consumer decisions?

Key Takeaways

I was interested to learn what a Cape Wine Master is and how that differs from Master of Wine.

Winnie also had some great insights into whether we should buy wines based on medals won from competitions and how those competitions themselves are run.

I loved her story about tasting through 50 years of the cult Tuscan wine Sassicaia and that 1950s vintage still had power and grace - it wasn’t tired.

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Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dr. Winnie Bowman

Dr. Winnie Bowman is a physiotherapist, biomedical scientist and holds a PhD in Education, specializing in Didactics. She is an international wine and spirit judge as well as a Cape Master. Winnie writes about wine, teaches, presents corporate tastings and appears regularly on radio and television wine shows.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/244.

243: Can Artificial Intelligence (AI) Give Good Wine & Food Pairing Tips? Dina Blikshteyn Shares Surprising Insights Jul 26, 2023

How can you use AI to get wine and food pairing advice? Will using AI make wine styles and flavours less diverse? Will AI replace wine writers?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dina Blikshteyn, a lawyer who specializes in how artificial intelligence and machine learning is changing the wine world.

Note: Our discussion is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Is there a risk that using AI tools will make wine taste more uniform?

How can AI-enabled machines help to vineyards to go organic?

What’s involved in making AI models more accurate in wine analysis?

How can AI be utilized to identify anomalies and potential fraud in the wine industry?

Can AI make appropriate wine and food pairing recommendations?

What are the copyright implications of AI-generated content?

Is there a role for AI in the world of wine critics?

How can trade secrets be used to protect AI models, specifically around wine recommendations?

How will AI be used in tasting rooms of the future?

Key Takeaways

I was interested to learn about the ways AI can give wine and food pairing tips, but I am immensely relieved that AI won’t be replacing me any time soon.

Used the right way, AI won’t make wine styles and flavours less diverse. Rather it should expand them if the tool is used to make wine better.

I was fascinated with her description of how AI is being used to grow grapes and all aspects of the process. It’ll be interesting to see if drones become a common sight over the vineyards… maybe they’ll invent one to chase away annoying tourists - just the pesky ones, of course.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dina Blikshteyn

Dina Blikshteyn is a partner in the Intellectual Property Practice Group in the New York law office of Haynes Boone. Dina focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud computing, cyber security, web applications, algorithms, multimedia and video streaming, among other technologies. She is also a co-chair of the artificial intelligence practice at the firm. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Dina developed high-frequency trading systems that traded financial instruments on domestic and international exchanges.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/243.

242: How Artificial Intelligence (AI) Will Change the Wines Your Drink with Dina Blikshteyn Jul 19, 2023

Are you curious how artificial intelligence will change the wines you drink? What’s the difference between AI-based technology and existing automated machines? Will AI eventually replace most people working in the vineyard?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dina Blikshteyn, a lawyer who specializes in how artificial intelligence and machine learning is changing the wine world.

Note: Our discussion is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was Dina’s first memory of drinking wine as a poor college student?

What’s the difference between automation and artificial intelligence?

How is AI improving grape growing and winemaking systems?

What’s the difference between newer AI-enabled machines and existing automated farming machines?

Which types of technology are used with AI in the wine industry?

Is there a risk of AI replacing human intervention in vineyards?

Who owns the data associated with machine learning, and what are the risks with data privacy?

What are the legal implications around the fair use of data obtained from the internet for AI training?

Key Takeaways

I was fascinated to learn how artificial intelligence will change the wines you drink. AI can determine whether the grapes are getting enough water in the growing stage and other factors to optimize ripeness and avoid disease. That, in turn, will make for better quality wine related to those factors.

Dina’s clarification of the difference between AI-based technology and existing automated machines was helpful. AI is a subset of automation that involves training models on data. It eventually makes new decisions and outputs, whereas traditional automation sticks to the rules you set for it.

I’m glad to hear that AI will not eventually replace most people working in the vineyard. Dina makes a great analogy that when the calculator was invented, we still needed to know how to do math. It's the same thing with AI; it’s just a tool.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dina Blikshteyn

Dina Blikshteyn is a partner in the Intellectual Property Practice Group in the New York law office of Haynes Boone. Dina focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning, cloud computing, cyber security, web applications, algorithms, multimedia and video streaming, among other technologies. She is also a co-chair of the artificial intelligence practice at the firm. Prior to becoming a lawyer, Dina developed high-frequency trading systems that traded financial instruments on domestic and international exchanges.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/242.

241: Why I Don't Review Bad Wines with Luke Whittall of the Sipster's Wine Podcast Jul 12, 2023

Why do I not review bad wines? What’s the difference between sexist, sexy and sensual writing, whether it’s in wine tasting notes or beyond? What are the big differences between wine reviews and articles, and what value does each form give to readers?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Luke Whittall, host of The Sipster's Wine Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What’s the difference between sexist, sexy and sensual writing?

Why does getting divorced often force us to reevaluate all facets of our lives?

How is the general style of wine writing changing, and what’s behind the shift?

Why is it essential to be intentional about making space for new voices in the wine world?

How has hosting the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast helped me to grow as a writer?

What do I love most about podcasting?

What does it look like to get to know someone before rushing to judgment on social media?

Why don’t I review bad wines?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Luke Whittall

Luke Whittall has worked in cellars, vineyards, and wine shops since 2005. He has authored or co-authored 4 books on wine and is currently a wine instructor at Okanagan College. HIs most recent book, The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines, Volume 2 (Touchwood Editions 2023) follows up on the success of volume 1 of The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines, and continues to mark a new direction in wine writing. It features more of the most amazing wines ever produced in British Columbia. His first book, Valleys of Wine: A Taste of British Columbia’s Wine History was published in 2019 and he co-authored the 6th edition of The Okanagan Wine Tour Guide with John Schreiner in 2020.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/241.

240: Online Mobbing, Dark Humour and Change in the Wine Industry with Luke Whittall of the Sipster's Wine Podcast Jul 05, 2023

How do you deal with the mob mentality of social media when it's a part of your work? How can you find the humour in the dark moments of life? What has changed in the past ten years in the wine industry when it comes to inequality and discrimination?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Luke Whittall, host of The Sipster's Wine Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What makes Wine Witch on Fire closer to fiction than nonfiction, despite being a memoir?

Which series of events in 2012 ended up as the worst vintage of my life?

What was it about that initial incident in 2012 that caused the issue to escalate so much?

What are some of the challenges of working on social media and balancing your personal values?

Does social media encourage a mob mentality?

What has changed in awareness and the responses to harassment on social media in the past 10 years?

Has my writing changed as a result of my experiences?

How am I able to inject humour into the darkest moments of my life?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Luke Whittall

Luke Whittall has worked in cellars, vineyards, and wine shops since 2005. He has authored or co-authored 4 books on wine and is currently a wine instructor at Okanagan College. HIs most recent book, The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines, Volume 2 (Touchwood Editions 2023) follows up on the success of volume 1 of The Sipster’s Pocket Guide to 50 Must-Try BC Wines, and continues to mark a new direction in wine writing. It features more of the most amazing wines ever produced in British Columbia. His first book, Valleys of Wine: A Taste of British Columbia’s Wine History was published in 2019 and he co-authored the 6th edition of The Okanagan Wine Tour Guide with John Schreiner in 2020.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/240.

239: Wild Yeast and Wine Temperature's Impact on Wine Taste with Carolyn Hurst of Westcott Vineyards Jul 04, 2023

How do wild yeasts help to bring out unique qualities in wine? What’s involved in farming and making wine sustainably? How does changing the temperature of your wine impact the tasting experience?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with winemaker Carolyn Hurst.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you in Canada will win a bottle of one of Carolyn's fabulous wines. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

How do Canadian shipping regulations impact winemakers?

What can wine lovers do to help with changing overly-restrictive policies?

Which types of wine can you get from Westcott Vineyards?

Why does Carolyn prefer using wild yeast to ferment Westcott wines?

What is it about Lilias Ahearn Massey that inspired Carolyn to name a wine after her?

Who is the inspiration behind Westcott’s Violette wine?

What’s involved in farming and making wine sustainably?

How did Westcott make their wines vegan and vegetarian-friendly?

Which unpopular wine opinion does Carolyn hold?

Why would Carolyn want to share a bottle of wine with a stoic?

Which fun wine tip can you try this week?

Key Takeaways

I was fascinated to hear how wild yeasts help to bring out unique qualities in wine and what’s involved in farming and making wine sustainably.

I agree with Carolyn about how profoundly changing the temperature of wine impacts the tasting experience.

I also agree that liquor monopolies and licensing based on prohibition-era legislation are preventing Canadian winemakers from being able to legally ship their wines across the country. That needs to change, especially for an industry where each producer is so small that they often don’t produce enough to fulfill large liquor store chain orders and so they depend on direct orders from customers.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Carolyn Hurst

Carolyn Hurst is president of Westcott Vineyards in Niagara, Ontario, which she founded with her husband Grant Westcott in 2006. Since 2017, she has been the Chair of the Board at Ontario Craft Wineries, representing more than 100 wineries in the province. Previously, she has been the president of three successful technology companies. She also has significant experience in the restaurant/hospitality industry earlier on in her career. She is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/239.

238: Old Vines, Land Stewardship and the Future of Ontario Wine with Carolyn Hurst, Westcott Vineyards Jul 02, 2023

Why is it a good idea for winemakers to invest in old vines? What does it mean to be a good steward of the land? What unique challenges does the Ontario wine industry face in the next five years?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with winemaker Carolyn Hurst.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you in Canada will win a bottle of one of Carolyn's fabulous wines. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me. Good luck!

Highlights

Which entrepreneurial game did Carolyn love to play as a child?

How did summer school in France change Carolyn’s life?

What made Carolyn want to get involved in the wine business?

Which special moment was the most memorable for Carolyn in her wine career so far?

Why is it a good idea to invest in old vines?

How does Carolyn’s motivation to be a good steward of the land inform her business decisions?

What is the Niagara Escarpment, and how does its unique features influence its wine?

Why does limestone soil impart a specific taste to wines?

What’s holding Ontario wines back from increasing local market share?

Which basic facts should you be aware of when it comes to the Ontario wine industry?

Which challenges are being faced by Ontario wineries, and what is needed to achieve economic sustainability?

Key Takeaways

Carolyn’s explanation of why old vines are precious and important to the quality of the wine makes a solid case for winemakers to invest in them.

I like how Carolyn describes being a good steward of the land for the next generation and making that a big part of her consciousness in terms of how she operates.

I was intrigued by Carolyn’s description of the unique challenges the Ontario wine industry faces in the next five years and was surprised at both its economic impact and that the wines still aren’t well represented on many wine lists.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Carolyn Hurst

Carolyn Hurst is president of Westcott Vineyards in Niagara, Ontario, which she founded with her husband Grant Westcott in 2006. Since 2017, she has been the Chair of the Board at Ontario Craft Wineries, representing more than 100 wineries in the province. Previously, she has been the president of three successful technology companies. She also has significant experience in the restaurant/hospitality industry earlier on in her career. She is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/238.

237: New Vision for Beautiful Vineyards and Regenerative Viticulture with Mark Gudgel Jun 14, 2023

What does regenerative viticulture mean? How do healthy vineyards today look dramatically different from those five years ago? How did the Wine Olympics make the results of the Judgement of Paris undeniable?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Mark Gudgel.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Mark's new book, Rise of Napa Valley Wineries: How the Judgment of Paris Put California Wine on the Map. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me.

Good luck!

Highlights

How did the Wine Olympics make the results of the Judgement of Paris undeniable?

What did the people of Napa do to preserve the beauty of the valley?

What does regenerative viticulture mean?

How is climate change impacting the California wine industry?

What surprised Mark the most when researching the book?

What needs to change to improve the terribly low levels of diversity in the wine industry?

Which aspects of The Rise of Napa Valley Wineries would Mark change in a new edition?

What's Mark’s greatest satisfaction having written this book?

Where’s the ideal place to have a glass of wine with friends and why?

Why does Mark describe the 2017 Smith-Madrone Riesling as the perfect Riesling?

What did Mark love about Christopher McDougall’s Born to Run?

Which controversial wine opinion does Mark feel strongly about?

What does Mark want you to know about Oakville, Napa Valley?

Key Takeaways

Mark’s definition of regenerative viticulture was helpful. I especially like his observation that the new vision for a beautiful vineyard is rows of well-maintained grapevines with a tremendous diversity of life living within it.

I agree with him that if we resign ourselves to merely sustaining where we are, we have resigned ourselves to a long, slow death.

I enjoyed his story about how the Wine Olympics made the results of the Judgement of Paris undeniable.

It’s also undeniable that the wine industry has a long way to go, with only four African-American Master Sommeliers, and only 10% of Master Sommeliers being women.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mark Gudgel

Dr. Mark Gudgel is an eighteen-year veteran of teaching high school English and presently serves as assistant professor of education at the College of Saint Mary in Omaha. His book, The Rise of Napa Valley Wineries: How the Judgment of Paris put California wine on the map, focuses on the wine industry and issues that surround it, and was released from History Press in May of 2023.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/237.

236: The Paris Tasting that Changed the Fate of California Wines with Mark Gudgel, Author of The Rise of Napa Valley Wineries Jun 07, 2023

Are you curious about the most important historic tasting that put California wines on the map? What unique challenges did pioneer winemakers face in California? What would surprise you about how the California wine industry developed?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author Mark Gudgel.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Mark's new book, Rise of Napa Valley Wineries: How the Judgment of Paris Put California Wine on the Map. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me.

Good luck!

Highlights

When did Mark realize he wanted to write about wine?

How did Mark develop his professional interest and expertise in genocide education?

What has been the worst moment of Mark’s writing career so far and what did he learn from it?

Which moments have created the best memories in Mark’s writing career?

What’s the significance of the “Judgement of Paris” and why was Mark drawn to the story?

What will you learn in Mark’s new book, Rise of Napa Valley Wineries?

Who were some of the early pioneers of Napa Valley wineries?

How were the Judgement of Paris reenactments done?

What are aged California wines like?

What are some of the inaccuracies in the movie Bottle Shock?

Why was Robert Mondavi instrumental in transforming the California wine industry?

Key Takeaways

I didn't realize how pivotal the 1976 Paris tasting was not only for California wines but also for other New World wines around the globe. With Mark’s explanation, I can see how its ramifications spread. What was so amazing was that these wines were tasted blind. No one knew the identity of the wines, and they were judged by French experts. It was the French experts saying California at the top.

It was fascinating to hear about the unique challenges pioneer winemakers faced in California. It’s a wonder that they persevered in the face of such huge obstacles.

I also enjoyed hearing about the surprising way the California wine industry developed.

About Mark Gudgel

Dr. Mark Gudgel is an eighteen-year veteran of teaching high school English and presently serves as assistant professor of education at the College of Saint Mary in Omaha. After honeymooning in Wine Country, Mark and his wife, Sonja, began a wine blog and soon after he was recruited as a regular correspondent for American Winery Guide. From there, Gudgel went on to write for Food & Spirits, Dine, Edible Omaha, and numerous other publications. His book, The Rise of Napa Valley Wineries: How the Judgment of Paris put California wine on the map, focuses on the wine industry and issues that surround it, and was released from History Press in May of 2023.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/236.

235: Technology Will Transform Tasting Rooms of the Future with Jessica Kogan May 31, 2023

How can wineries use technology to better connect with customers online? What can you expect from the tasting rooms of the future? What matters most when you taste wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jessica Kogan, a digital brand marketing executive who has successfully launched brands such as Gucci, Prada, Charles Schwab, Cameron Hughes, and now Vintage Wine Estates.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a special bottle of wine from one of the wineries in Jessica Kogan's portfolio. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me.

Good luck!

Highlights

What's unique about the way Cameron Hughes wines are made?

What was the most satisfying part of launching Cameron Hughes Wine online?

Why does Jessica particularly love connecting directly with her customers?

How is wine significant to social settings and special moments?

How did Jessica’s experience with the president of Vintage Wine Estates empower her as a woman leader?

Which technology can help to connect tasting room employees with customers online?

How have virtual tastings become a big part of the winery experience since COVID-19?

What can you expect from a virtual tasting experience?

What’s Jessica’s vision of the tasting room of the future?

What makes Cherry Pie Pinot Noir an excellent wine-tasting experience?

Which dishes would pair well with Baillie-Grohman Gewürztraminer?

What is it about Winemaker's Cut Muscat Canelli that brings renewal and hope to mind?

What does Jessica love about Cameron Hughes Lot 894 | 2020 Columbia Valley Merlot?

Which bottle of wine would Jessica love to be able to share with Ruth Bader Ginsberg?

Key Takeaways

Jessica is so visionary in how she sees wineries using technology to better connect with customers online rather than making the experience less personal.

I also enjoyed her insights into how tasting rooms of the future will change to better tailor the in-person experience for visitors.

And she’s absolutely right that what matters most when you taste wine is whether or not it suits your taste.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jessica Kogan

Jessica Kogan is a brand marketing and digital transformation executive with a seriously successful track record of launching CPG brands and DTC businesses that scale. As the Chief Growth & Experience Officer at Vintage Wine Estates (NASDAQ: VWE) her role is to drive the VWE digital transformation roadmap, unifying DTC, eGrocery and Supply Chain enabling customer satisfaction and employee empowerment. Most recently as the Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, Jessica led DTC division growth from $30 million to $100 million in less than 3 years.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/235.

234: Wine and Fashion Share Aspirational Marketing and Self-Identification with Jessica Kogan of Vintage Wine Estates May 24, 2023

How will new technology affect the way you buy and learn about wine in the future? What does it take to launch a winery into the digital space? Which aspects of the fashion industry could the wine industry benefit from emulating?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jessica Kogan, a digital brand marketing executive who has successfully launched brands such as Gucci, Prada, Charles Schwab, Cameron Hughes, and now Vintage Wine Estates.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a special bottle of wine from one of the wineries in Jessica Kogan's portfolio. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me.

Good luck!

Highlights

What drew Jess to a career in the fashion industry?

What were the challenges of bringing a fashion brand online in the early days of the internet?

Are there similarities between the fashion and wine industries?

How does the wine industry tap into our aspirations and fantasies?

What are the major differences between the fashion and wine industries?

Why does the wine industry need to do a better job of delivering wine to customers?

Why is it important to have transparent ingredient labeling for wine?

How did Jess get into the world of wine?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jessica Kogan

Jessica Kogan is a brand marketing and digital transformation executive with a seriously successful track record of launching CPG brands and DTC businesses that scale. As the Chief Growth & Experience Officer at Vintage Wine Estates (NASDAQ: VWE) her role is to drive the VWE digital transformation roadmap, unifying DTC, eGrocery and Supply Chain enabling customer satisfaction and employee empowerment. Most recently as the Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, Jessica led DTC division growth from $30 million to $100 million in less than 3 years.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/234.

233: Best Wine & Food Pairing Tips + California Wines with Chuck Cramer May 17, 2023

Which California wine should be at the top of your must-try list? Which simple tips can you use to identify successful food and wine pairings? What should you know before starting a podcast?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I’m chatting with Chuck Cramer, host of On The Road With Mr CA Wine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why did I start the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast?

What was the motivation behind Chuck creating On The Road With Mr CA Wine?

Why was time the biggest challenge in producing my podcast?

How do you keep content fresh over hundreds of episodes?

What are my favourite wine tips?

How can you use the butter/lemon test to help with food and wine pairing?

What’s the weirdest successful food pairing I’ve had with Rosé

How can food alter your perception of a wine’s taste?

What makes asparagus and artichoke difficult to pair with wine?

What do you need to know about the Canadian wine industry?

Which Canadian wines should be on your must-try list?

Are California wines popular in Canada?

How has my perception of California wines changed over the past 10 years?

Why is Paso Robles at the top of my list of California wine regions to visit?

What's the best-value California wine I’ve tasted recently?

What advice would I give to someone thinking of starting a podcast?

As a child, what did I want to be when I grew up?

If I could have any celebrity guest on my podcast, who would it be?

If money’s no object, which bottle of California wine would I open with dinner tonight?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Chuck Cramer

Chuck Cramer is a 4th generation Los Angeleno, living in London for the past 22 years. In addition to hosting a wine podcast dedicated to CA wine, On The Road With Mr CA Wine, Chuck is the director of European sales & marketing for Terlato Wines, managing a gorgeous portfolio of CA wines across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. He’s also the proud dad of two beautiful women, plays tennis four times a week and bleeds Dodger Blue!

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/233.

232: Wine Marketing that Encourages Overdrinking + Sexism in Wine Tasting Tasting Notes May 10, 2023

How does slick wine marketing encourage us to drink too much? Has anything really changed in the wine industry in the last ten years since the incidents in the book took place? How is sexism still embedded in wine tasting notes today? What would I advise young women and men entering the wine business today?

I’ll be sharing those stories and more in this special episode of my podcast. My new memoir Wine Witch on Fire: Rising from the Ashes of Divorce, Defamation, and Drinking Too Much just launched yesterday, May 9th in Canada. It will launch in the US and around the world June 6th, and it’s also available for pre-order now.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why was it particularly difficult to face the challenges of divorce and defamation as the caregiver of a teenage son and an elderly mother?

While this book deals with serious issues, there’s lots of humour. How do you strike a balance between the two?

Do you approach things differently now than before?

Has anything really changed in the wine industry since that time?

What would you say to young women and men who want to enter the wine business?

What does that world without misogyny or sexism look like?

Can you share an example of how sexism is embedded in wine tasting notes?

What’s the difference between sexist, sexy, and sensual writing?

In the book, your partner calls you “princess,” and another writer calls you “sweetheart.” Are you bothered by these?

Throughout your memoir, you describe the slick marketing that encourages women to drink too much. Can you elaborate on this?

Why include stories of women behind wine labels?

You're a supertaster. What does that mean?

If you could be a wine, which one would it be?

What was your most interesting wine experience?

Which wines do you enjoy drinking on your own time these days?

What does terroir mean to you?

What is a guilty pleasure when it comes to pairing wine and food?

What’s in your wine guide for book clubs, wine groups and individual readers, and where can we get it?

How can we find out more about the $397 Bonus Bundle with pre-orders and where to buy the book?

Are there any book launch events coming up?

For those who may be going through difficult times themselves, what advice do you have?

What’s next for you?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/232.

231: Dark Side of the Wine World + Tips for Moderate Drinking May 03, 2023

How did I first fall in love with wine? Do I feel more exposed now for having written this third book? What are my best tips for moderate drinking?

I’ll be sharing those stories and more in this special episode of my podcast as we get closer to the May 9th launch of my new memoir Wine Witch on Fire: Rising from the Ashes of Divorce, Defamation, and Drinking Too Much.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Join me for my Toronto Launch Party

Save your spot now for this invite-only book launch event and tasting.

Treat yourself to a private book launch party and wine tasting in Toronto on Wednesday, May 10th at 6 p.m.!

* Enjoy access to the (very) swanky private club, Clio, in downtown Toronto * Savour three outstanding Creekside wines as I guide you in a wine tasting * Enjoy my hilarious and heartfelt stories about working in the world of wine * Learn about the professional challenges when drinking is your day job * Discover how to become a savvier wine buyer with my insider tips * Ask me anything about wine, writing a book, or rediscovering joy in your personal and professional life

Tickets are on sale here for ONE WEEK ONLY, so get yours today before they sell out! Save your seat here: https://trk.cp20.com/click/365b-2oeeqm-cirtts-6q8qco5/

Please share this event with friends, family, and colleagues who might also be interested in attending the Toronto launch or tasting events in these other cities.

Highlights

What is the book about?

How did you come up with the title?

How did you approach this narrative?

Who is the book dedicated to?

At what age did you start writing?

When did you fall in love with wine?

What's the story behind your worst hangover?

What was your inspiration to start writing about wine?

Where do you write?

Who is one of your favourite authors?

What was the inciting incident for this story?

What was the inspiration for this book?

Why write this book now?

Was it difficult to write this book?

Do you feel more exposed for having written this memoir?

Was it difficult to write with such openness and vulnerability?

How have you moderated your alcohol consumption?

What are some of the reader stories that have moved you deeply?

What do you expect readers to take away from this book?

How has writing this memoir changed you?

What’s in your wine guide for book clubs, wine groups and individual readers, and where can we get it?

How can we find out more about the $397 Bonus Bundle with pre-orders and where to buy the book?

Are there any book launch events coming up?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/231.

230: Behind-the-Scenes of the Wine Industry + Slick Wine Marketing with Chuck Cramer Apr 26, 2023

What's it like to work as a sommelier in a five-diamond French restaurant? How do you make the jump from writing magazine columns to becoming a regular guest on radio and television shows? How does it feel to write a book about the most difficult moments in your life?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I’m chatting with Chuck Cramer, host of On The Road With Mr CA Wine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Was there one wild moment that got Natalie hooked on the world of wine?

How did I go from working in the tech industry to becoming a full-time wine writer?

What was the path from writing magazine columns to the multi-faceted brand today?

Why does my approach to writing help my books to stand out from other wine books?

What was it like working for one night as a sommelier in a Five Diamond French restaurant?

What surprised Natalie the most about California wines?

How is my upcoming memoir different from my previous books?

Why did I decide to write such a different book the third time around?

What was my highest high and lowest low while writing Wine Witch on Fire?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Chuck Cramer

Chuck Cramer is a 4th generation Los Angeleno, living in London for the past 22 years. In addition to hosting a wine podcast dedicated to CA wine, On The Road With Mr CA Wine, Chuck is the director of European sales & marketing for Terlato Wines, managing a gorgeous portfolio of CA wines across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. He’s also the proud dad of two beautiful women, plays tennis four times a week and bleeds Dodger Blue!

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/230.

229: Toasting Etiquette + How Instagram & TikTok Have Changed Wine Education with Dr. Clinton Lee author of Master the Art of Manners Apr 19, 2023

Did you know that there’s a polite way and a rude way to clink wine glasses when toasting in some cultures? Are you curious about great pairings for truffles or caviar? Why have Instagram and TikTok exploded in popularity as a way to learn about wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Clinton Lee, Executive Director of the Asia Pacific Wine and Spirit Institute.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What’s the most common misconception about wine etiquette?

Is there a “right” way to toast with wine?

Which particular wine customs would you observe in different cultures around the world?

How have globalization and technology impacted the world of etiquette and manners?

Why does Dr. Lee view his content as a bridge between people?

Which videos have elicited the biggest responses from Dr. Lee’s audience?

Wine tasting order

Breaking bread

Why does Dr. Lee swirl his wine eight times before tasting?

Which aspects of Vinoscenti Vineyards Alla Famiglia make it particularly interesting?

How can you pair Gewürztraminer with food?

What can you expect from the tasting experience of Kacaba Vineyards Susan's Sauvignon Blanc and Bocale Montefalco Rosso?

What do you need to know about pairing wine with truffles and caviar?

Why does shellfish clash with red wine?

Which philosophers would Dr. Lee want to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

I found it fascinating that there’s a polite way and a rude way to clink wine glasses when toasting in some cultures. Also, in certain places, it’s bad manners to pour your own wine.

I enjoyed hearing Dr. Lee’s pairings for truffles and caviar.

It’s amazing how Instagram and TikTok have exploded in popularity as a way to learn about wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dr. Clinton Lee

Clinton Lee is the Executive Director at Asia Pacific Wine and Spirit Institute, a WSET Diploma Graduate & Wine Educator & Speaker. He is the author of Master the Art of Manners, which will be published later this year. He is an internationally recognized intercultural etiquette expert, wine and spirit educator and judge. Dr. Lee has been featured in the media around the world and is recognized as a social media influencer with over two million followers on several platforms. He is also the host of the Wine Buzz podcast.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/229.

228: Wine Etiquette in Different Cultures and at Festivals with Dr. Clinton Lee Apr 12, 2023

How can wine help you to broaden your understanding of different cultures? Which stark differences in culture and decorum will you see in various wine regions? What's the right way, etiquette-wise, to receive your tasting sample at a wine festival or show?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Clinton Lee, Executive Director of the Asia Pacific Wine and Spirit Institute.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What will wine lovers find fascinating about Mendoza, Argentina?

How did Dr. Lee communicate with Argentinian winemakers with no languages in common?

What was it like to participate in a blindfolded wine tasting in China?

What made Dr. Lee’s visit to Ducasse au Château de Versailles heartwarming?

How was the art of decorum on perfect display at a Vinitaly tasting in Verona, Italy?

What’s the right protocol to observe when receiving a pour at a tasting?

When did Dr. Lee develop his interest in wine and culture?

How did Dr. Lee become an expert in manners and culture?

What influences can you see across cultures?

How can you become more culturally aware?

Key Takeaways

I wholeheartedly agree with him that wine helps you to broaden your understanding of different cultures. It reminds me of when I was a highland dancer as a child and traveled to different countries with my mother. We experienced the culture more deeply than would most tourists as we got to know families who lived there and often stayed with them.

He makes several interesting points that there are stark differences in culture and decorum in various wine regions.

I also agree with him that it's good etiquette and sound practice to slide away to the side after you receive your wine sample at a festival or show to allow others to get theirs. It’s always tempting to stay and chat with those pouring the wine, and that’s fine if no one is behind you, but rarely is that the case.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dr. Clinton Lee

Clinton Lee is the Executive Director at Asia Pacific Wine and Spirit Institute, a WSET Diploma Graduate & Wine Educator & Speaker. He is the author of Master the Art of Manners, which will be published later this year. He is an internationally recognized intercultural etiquette expert, wine and spirit educator and judge. Dr. Lee has been featured in the media around the world and is recognized as a social media influencer with over two million followers on several platforms. He is also the host of the Wine Buzz podcast.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/228.

227: Diversity in the Wine Industry + Vermentino Food Pairings with Sommelier Tonya Pitts Apr 05, 2023

Why is Vermentino such a great wine to pair with food, and which dishes pair best with it? What are the markers and nuances in wine that are tied to a specific place? How is the wine industry changing when it comes to diversity, and what still needs to be done?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Sommelier of the Year, Tonya Pitts.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why is mentoring so important to Tonya and which organizations is she involved with?

How is the wine industry changing when it comes to diversity?

Why did Tonya create Women in Wine?

How can each of us help to move the wine industry forward with diversity and inclusion?

What makes Château de Chamirey Mercurey Blanc so refreshing?

Why does Tonya especially love Vermentino?

Which types of wine pair best with food?

How do zesty whites stimulate the tastebuds?

Which controversial opinion does Tonya have about terroir and tasting?

Which unexpected red wine pairings pleasantly surprised Tonya?

Key Takeaways

I have so much respect for Tonya’s leadership in the wine industry on so many dimensions from diversity to mentorship. She walks her talk.

It’s surprising that women still comprise only 20% of winemakers in the industry. Tonya has some great suggestions on how the industry needs to continue its efforts for inclusion.

I can’t wait to try Tonya’s suggested pairings for Vermentino, my mouth is already watering thinking of this zesty white Italian wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Tonya Pitts

Tonya Pitts is the Sommelier and Wine Director at One Market Restaurant in San Francisco and she has been crowned 2022 Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Sommelier of the Year. Tonya has been a notable mogul within the wine industry for over 30 years. Outside of her Wine Enthusiast recognition, she was recently inducted into the Hall of Femmes (an award that requires being nominated by other women), awarded membership for Les Dames D’Escouffier, added to the advisory board of Women in Wine’s Leadership Symposium, and has become an integral contributor to Wine Unify.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/227.

226: Navigating Big Restaurant Wine Lists + Sommelier's Key Role with Tonya Pitts Mar 29, 2023

Are you curious about what it takes to manage a list of 500 different wine labels at one of America’s best restaurants? Why is wine so powerful in creating memories? What is the most important role of the sommelier?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Sommelier of the Year, Tonya Pitts.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How did art play a major role in Tonya’s life growing up?

Why is wine so powerful in creating memories?

What motivated Tonya to switch from pursuing a career in law to becoming a sommelier?

What was Tonya’s introduction to working in restaurants?

Why is smell such a significant part of Tonya’s tasting process?

What’s in Tonya’s mental wine Rolodex?

What was it like to taste a 1900 Rothschild?

How did a tasting of the 1976 Chateau Lafite compare to the 1900 Rothschild?

What makes older wines so special?

What does it take to manage a list of 500 different wine labels at one of America’s best restaurants?

Why is it even more powerful to visit the place wine comes from?

How did Italy win Tonya’s heart?

What does Tonya love about the service aspect of being a sommelier?

Key Takeaways

I found Tonya’s insights into what it takes to manage a list of 500 different wine labels at one of America’s best restaurants fascinating.

She also shares some great behind-the-scenes observations on the role of the sommelier.

My favourite part is when she talks lyrically about how she’s transitioned from the artist’s canvas to using a plate of food and wine to tell a story and paint a picture for someone.

I also think she’s bang on when she says, “Wine takes you on a journey, you can go anywhere in the world, with a bottle of wine. The reason I still do what I do, and why it means so much to me, is that I can actually smell a glass, it transports me right back to that time and place when I originally had that bottle of wine. It's amazing.”

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Tonya Pitts

Tonya Pitts is the Sommelier and Wine Director at One Market Restaurant in San Francisco and she has been crowned 2022 Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Sommelier of the Year. Tonya has been a notable mogul within the wine industry for over 30 years. Outside of her Wine Enthusiast recognition, she was recently inducted into the Hall of Femmes (an award that requires being nominated by other women), awarded membership for Les Dames D’Escouffier, added to the advisory board of Women in Wine’s Leadership Symposium, and has become an integral contributor to Wine Unify.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/226.

225: Pinot Noir's Heartbreaking Beauty and Moderation Tips with Wines to Find Mar 22, 2023

Which aspects of the Beamsville Bench make it particularly suited for growing grapes for wine? Why is Pinot Noir called the heartbreak grape? What are some ways for wine professionals and wine lovers to moderate their consumption?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester, hosts of the Wines To Find podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What makes podcasting such a powerful medium?

Which aspects of the Beamsville Bench make it particularly suited for growing grapes for wine?

What does Thirty Bench Small Lot Pinot Noir taste like and which food pairings work well?

How does Trader Joe's Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir stack up as a $10 wine?

Why is Pinot Noir my heartbreak grape?

How did my taste in wine evolve over the years?

How does climate impact the acidity of grapes?

What will you learn in my free wine and food pairing class?

How can you pair foods with wine according to the texture?

What intrigued Sandy about the Oregon Wine Company's Rascal Pinot Noir label?

How could all wine lovers benefit if wine labels had ingredient/nutrition labels?

What are the benefits of QR codes on wine labels?

What can you expect from Oregon Wine Company's Rascal Pinot Noir?

What do you need to consider when tasting multiple wines?

How did I use a “do the thing” approach when writing my first two wine books?

Which simple tip can you use to find excellent wine at bargain prices?

What can you expect from my upcoming memoir centered on the worst vintage of my life?

How is wine marketed differently to men versus women?

Why is it important to me to take a closer look at my consumption and participation in the negative aspects of wine culture?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester

The Wines To Find Podcast was created after the two hosts, sisters Sandy and Michelle, travelled together to France and Italy in 2019. Both sisters are wine enthusiasts that have tracked their wine purchases, palates and pairings for years. As a way to continue the thrill of their European trip and to document their wine journey, they created the Wines To Find Podcast with the goal of spending time together, further growing their palates, and sharing wine stories from guests. Wines To Find features two new wines tasted for the first time by the sisters & guests, who span the spectrum of the wine industry from winemakers, owners, growers, sommeliers, fellow enthusiasts and more.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/225.

224: Synthetic Wine, Alcohol-Free Wine and Sabering Champagne with Dragonvine's Steven Laine Mar 15, 2023

Can you imagine a world where there’s only synthetic wine? And what is synthetic wine anyway? How does removing alcohol impact the tasting experience?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Steven Laine, award-winning restaurateur, hotelier, and author.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Can you imagine a world where there’s only synthetic wine?

What can you expect from Steven’s upcoming books, Jupiter’s Blood and The Somm?

How did Steven end up working at two fantastic wineries during the pandemic?

Which surprising insights did Steven learn from working the harvest?

Why is a vineyard the ideal setting for enjoying a glass of wine?

What is it about Torres Natureo Syrah that makes it a great non-alcoholic option?

How does removing alcohol impact the tasting profile of wine?

What makes English sparkling wine a great alternative to Champagne?

Why should you add Quails' Gate Estate Winery Dry Riesling to your “wines to try” list?

Which unpopular wine belief does Steven hold?

Which wine would Steven pair with his childhood favourite, lasagna?

What are some of Steven’s favourite wine books?

Which writers would Steven like to share a bottle of wine with?

Why has travelling been a boon to Steven’s writing?

What wine message would Steven put on a billboard?

Which wine would Steven want to be served at his funeral, and why?

Why does Steven believe it’s important to drink what you enjoy drinking?

What’s on the horizon for Steven’s writing?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed more nightmare scenarios from Steven this week. I can’t imagine a world where there’s only synthetic wine. Wine is both art and science, but it’s also natural and an extension of the earth.

His insights into how removing alcohol impacts the tasting experience were interesting.

I have to agree, given the sheer labour intensity of producing wine, much of it is underpriced.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Steven Laine

Kirkus Reviews called Steven Laine’s first wine thriller, Root Cause, “An entertaining, wine-soaked mystery.” The Washington Post wrote; “If Michael Pollan and Dan Brown sat down over a bottle of Barolo and brainstormed a novel based on the neuroses of the natural wine movement, they might have come up with something like Root Cause.”

As an award-winning restaurateur and hotelier, Steven has travelled the world working in luxury hotels such as The Ritz, Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, and Pan Pacific. He developed his passion for wine as a Sommelier and Beverage Director in London, England. Since then, he has visited hundreds of wineries around the world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/224.

223: Thriller Novel Asks: "Can You Imagine a World Without Wine?" with Steven Laine, author of Root Cause Mar 08, 2023

Can you imagine a world without wine? How did an author create a new genre of wine thriller based on a winemaker’s worst nightmare? What if the root louse phylloxera that destroyed most of the European vineyards in the 1850s returned but was even more destructive?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Steven Laine, award-winning restaurateur, hotelier, and author.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What about the experience of travelling that motivated Steven to live in nine different countries?

How did Steven become involved in the wine industry?

Where did Steven’s inspiration to write thrillers come from?

How did the root louse Grape phylloxera impact European vineyards in the 1800s?

Which surprising facts did Steven learn about phylloxera while researching Root Cause?

What’s the best moment of Steven’s writing career so far?

Do beta readers play a role in Steven’s writing process?

What can you expect from Steven’s book Root Cause?

Who are Steven’s favourite mystery writers?

Why are stuck fermentations a winemaker's worst nightmare?

Why does Steven love to read widely?

What was the inspiration for Steven’s second book, Dragon Vine?

Key Takeaways

The premise of Steven’s novel, can you imagine a world without wine, hooked me from the beginning. I can’t imagine erasing all those great times I’ve shared with friends and family over a glass or two, let alone not doing the work I love in this field.

I love how he takes a winemaker’s worst nightmare and up the ante by having the root louse phylloxera come back as even more destructive. This doesn’t seem to be an impossibility with today’s climate change as well as the mutation of viruses that spread around the world quickly.

I enjoyed Steven’s insights into how travel changed his perspective. I think each trip, each location brings out a different piece of us.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Steven Laine

Kirkus Reviews called Steven Laine’s first wine thriller, Root Cause, “An entertaining, wine-soaked mystery.” The Washington Post wrote; “If Michael Pollan and Dan Brown sat down over a bottle of Barolo and brainstormed a novel based on the neuroses of the natural wine movement, they might have come up with something like Root Cause.”

As an award-winning restaurateur and hotelier, Steven has travelled the world working in luxury hotels such as The Ritz, Hilton, Starwood, Marriott, and Pan Pacific. He developed his passion for wine as a Sommelier and Beverage Director in London, England. Since then, he has visited hundreds of wineries around the world.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/223.

222: Wine and Religion + Santa Ynez Valley with Adam McHugh Mar 01, 2023

What did John the Baptist, Dom Perignon and Saint Vincent have in common when it comes to wine? What makes the vineyard of Clos de Vougeot in Burgundy so fascinating? Why should you consider visiting the wine region Santa Ynez in Santa Barbara County?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Adam McHugh, author of Blood from Stone: A Memoir of How Wine Brought Me Back from the Dead.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a personally signed copy of Adam McHugh's terrific book, Blood from Stone: A Memoir of How Wine Brought Me Back from the Dead. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me.

Good luck!

Highlights

Why do French and American oak impart different notes?

Historically, why were more Catholics than Protestants involved in winemaking?

What makes the 100+ acres of Clos de Vougeot so interesting?

Why was the wine négociant system created?

Which major contributions did the Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon make to the wine world?

How did John the Baptist become the patron saint of cellar masters?

What’s Adam’s take on the ongoing debate between geologists and sommeliers?

Why should you consider visiting the wine region Santa Ynez in Santa Barbara County?

What are Adam’s top tips for getting the most out of a visit to Santa Ynez?

What was Adam’s hope in writing Blood From Stone?

Which unpopular wine belief does Adam hold?

What’s Adam’s favourite wine book?

Why is the Coravin Adam’s favourite wine gadget?

Which disastrous Shiraz wine pairing did Adam serve at a dinner party?

What’s the best way to pair a very tannic wine with food?

Which Julia Child recipe is at the heart of Adam’s current favourite food and wine pairing?

How has John Steinbeck inspired Adam as a writer?

What coffee message would Adam put on a billboard?

What can you expect from Adam’s book Blood From A Stone?

Key Takeaways

I loved how Adam wove in the stories of John the Baptist, Dom Perignon and Saint Vincent as they relate to wine. I agree with him that wine can be a spiritual thing apart from its religious associations.

Clos de Vougeot in Burgundy is such a storied vineyard. I’m glad he included it in his book.

The Santa Ynez wine region in Santa Barbara County is on my radar to visit next. It’s incredible that over 80% of the wines from Santa Ynez are made by family-owned wineries that make less than 10,000 cases yearly.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Adam McHugh

Adam McHugh is a wine tour guide, sommelier, and Certified Specialist of Wine. He is the author of The Listening Life and Introverts in the Church and a regular contributor to Edible Santa Barbara & Wine Country. He lives in California's Santa Ynez Valley.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/222.

221: Châteauneuf-du-Pape Makes Wine from Stone with Blood From A Stone's Adam McHugh Feb 22, 2023

How did one man make a complete career pivot from working with dying in hospice care to living among the vines and writing about them? Why is French oak so treasured and so expensive? Which historical events led to the development of what we now know as the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Adam McHugh, author of Blood from Stone: A Memoir of How Wine Brought Me Back from the Dead.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a personally signed copy of Adam McHugh's terrific book, Blood from Stone: A Memoir of How Wine Brought Me Back from the Dead. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy. I'll choose three people randomly from those who contact me.

Good luck!

Highlights

What’s it like being a hospice chaplain?

How did wine help Adam to connect and become more grounded?

How did Adam find the balance to lighten - but not trivialize - the serious topics he covers in Blood from Stone?

What was it like to transition out of being a hospice chaplain?

Why is grieving an essential part of many life transitions?

What’s the difference between change and transition?

How did a trip to France inspire Adam to turn his love for wine into a career?

What’s behind the book’s title, Blood from Stone?

How were the iconic rounded stones found in the Rhone region formed?

Which historical events led to the development of what we now know as Châteauneuf-du-Pape?

What are the multiple meanings behind the term “blood of the vine”?

Why is Adam fascinated by the process of fermentation?

Why did France plant the forests that have now become the source of some of the most prestigious oak barrels?

Why is French oak so treasured and expensive?

Key Takeaways

I loved hearing how Adam made a complete career pivot from working with dying in hospice care to living among the vines and writing about them, especially his insight into the renewal and the miracle in the phrase “blood from stone.” The ancient connection between blood and wine was interesting as was his observation that grief is not just about big losses like death. We grieve lots of smaller things throughout the course of our lives.

I also found his discussion of why oak from different forests in France creates different seasonings for wine. The tighter the grain in the oak, the more subtle the impact in the resulting wine. Then fermentation unlocks a lot of aromatics we revel in with wine.

The history of the popes and the development of the Chateuneuf-du-Pape region were also intriguing.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Adam McHugh

Adam McHugh is a wine tour guide, sommelier, and Certified Specialist of Wine. He is the author of The Listening Life and Introverts in the Church and a regular contributor to Edible Santa Barbara & Wine Country. He lives in California's Santa Ynez Valley.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/221.

220: Food & Wine Pairing Without Intimidation with the Interpreting Wine Podcast's Lawrence Francis Feb 15, 2023

How can you learn more about food and wine without the intimidation factor? Why does exploring outside of your arena often drive inspiration and innovation? Why is writing a memoir like living your life twice?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Lawrence Francis, host of the Interpreting Wine podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why do wine podcasts attract an international audience?

Why do I focus mostly on wine in my content?

How did I get started with TV appearances, and how has that evolved?

What trends and strategies have been used in wine communication since the start of the pandemic?

What kind of feedback have I gotten on my courses from beginners and industry professionals?

How have I incorporated elements into my online courses to help students feel more comfortable in an environment that can often be intimidating?

Which podcasts are currently on my list of favourites?

Why does exploring outside of your arena often drive inspiration and innovation?

Why did I write a memoir after publishing two very different books?

What can you expect from my upcoming third book?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Lawrence Francis

Lawrence Francis spent 10 years as a Psychologist and Coach before entering the wine industry. He’s been the host of the Interpreting Wine podcast since 2017; helping winemakers with underpriced, undersold or unknown wines address these challenges with compelling storytelling that engages wine consumers. Four years later, he’s now published more than 430 episodes, with more than 300,000 downloads in 150 countries.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/220.

219: Powerful Wine Storytelling and Hooks with Lawrence Francis of the Interpreting Wine Podcast Feb 08, 2023

What’s behind the power of podcasts and how they evoke the theater of the mind? How can you use a hook to improve your communication skills? Why do stories help us remember what we learn about wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Lawrence Francis, host of the Interpreting Wine podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Which bottle kickstarted my passion for wine?

How did I find the confidence to write about wine?

Why do stories make it easier to learn about wine?

How has my wine career evolved since my first freelance article submission?

Why did I shift my mindset on being a wine educator?

What’s behind the power of podcasting for connecting people?

How do podcasts help people learn about wine in the best way for them?

Why is communication such a valuable skill for wine lovers?

How can you improve your communication skills?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Lawrence Francis

Lawrence Francis spent 10 years as a Psychologist and Coach before entering the wine industry. He’s been the host of the Interpreting Wine podcast since 2017; helping winemakers with underpriced, undersold or unknown wines address these challenges with compelling storytelling that engages wine consumers. Four years later, he’s now published more than 430 episodes, with more than 300,000 downloads in 150 countries.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/219.

218: Music Changes Wine's Taste + Restaurant Table Shape & How Much We Eat with Nell McShane Wulfhart Feb 01, 2023

How does the shape of a restaurant table impact how much you eat? How can you use your music playlist to complement your menu? Which types of songs can make your wine taste more acidic?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with journalist Nell McShane Wulfhart.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Nell McShane Wulfhart's terrific book, Off Menu. To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

How can you help guests to feel more comfortable at a gathering?

What simple tips can you use to avoid lingering guests at your next dinner party?

How can you use lighting throughout a party to influence guests’ experiences?

Which types of songs can make your Pinot Noir or other wines tastes more acidic?

Why does music have a bigger impact on complex beverages like coffee and wine?

How can you use your music playlist to complement your menu?

Why do our palate and preferences change when we’re on a plane?

Can we hear the difference between various types of beverages just from the sound of the pour?

Why are white wine glasses better than flutes for drinking bubbly?

How does the shape of the table in a restaurant affect our dining experience?

How do the shape and texture of food affect how satisfied you feel?

Which wine bottle characteristics make the most impact on wine buyers?

How does the choice of bottle and packaging affect the environmental footprint of wine?

How do health claims on food and wine packaging influence our perception?

How is scent marketing being used outside of the food and beverage industry?

Key Takeaways

I loved finding out how the shape of a restaurant table impacts how much we eat and how long we stay in a restaurant.

I also found it interesting how I can use my music playlist to complement my menu.

I like knowing which types of songs can make my wine taste more acidic.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Nell McShane Wulfhart

Nell McShane Wulfhart is a decision coach and author. She has written for The New York Times, The Wall St. Journal, The Guardian, and many other outlets. Her most recent book, The Great Stewardess Rebellion - about how flight attendants in the 1960s and 70s staged a revolution for working women everywhere. The Wall Street Journal described it as exhilarating and wrote that “Wulfhart is a vivid storyteller who writes with energy and style.” Nell’s audiobook, Off Menu, is about the secret science of food, drinks, and the dining experience.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/218.

217: Flavour versus Taste Plus Uruguay Wines with Nell McShane Wulfhart Jan 25, 2023

How does telling your dinner party guests a few details about the wine you're serving dramatically change their perception of its taste? Should you add wines from Uruguay to your must-taste list? What’s the difference between flavour and taste?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and journalist Nell McShane Wulfhart.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you will win a copy of Nell McShane Wulfhart's terrific book, Off Menu.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

Which shocking discoveries did Nell make while researching The Great Stewardess Rebellion?

What do you need to know about wines from Uruguay?

How can our other senses impact our perception of the taste of food and beverages?

What’s the difference between taste and flavour?

How does sound affect our perception of what we’re tasting?

What do we know about how supertasters experience taste and flavour differently from others?

Why should you use the retronasal smell?

What simple trick can you use to amplify your experience of dark chocolate?

What impact does our knowledge of a specific wine have on the tasting experience?

What simple strategy can we use to improve our dinner party guests’ experience?

How do extrasensory cues impact flavour and enjoyment?

Why should you add a squeeze of limes or lemons to your food?

Why do ice cream companies add certain scents to their packaging?

What effect does loud music or noise have on your sense of taste?

Should you serve your best wine first or last at a dinner party?

Key Takeaways

I love Nell’s advice to share a few details about a wine with your dinner party guests as it will dramatically change their perception of its taste.

I’m more keen now to taste more wines from Uruguay, especially Tannat.

I found Nell’s explanation of the difference between flavour and taste fascinating.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Nell McShane Wulfhart

Nell McShane Wulfhart is a decision coach and author. She has written for The New York Times, The Wall St. Journal, The Guardian, and many other outlets. Her most recent book, The Great Stewardess Rebellion - about how flight attendants in the 1960s and 70s staged a revolution for working women everywhere. The Wall Street Journal described it as exhilarating and wrote that “Wulfhart is a vivid storyteller who writes with energy and style.” Nell’s audiobook, Off Menu, is about the secret science of food, drinks, and the dining experience.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/217.

216: Tradeoff Between Taste & Alcohol, Chardonnay, California Wine Values with Chuck Cramer Jan 18, 2023

What’s the tradeoff between flavour and alcohol? How does Chardonnay lend itself to unusual food pairings? Where do you find great value in California wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Chuck Cramer, host of On The Road With Mr CA Wine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Who were Chuck’s most memorable podcast guests and why?

Who would be Chuck’s dream guests for his podcast?

Why does Chuck consider Lodi to be the most underrated California wine region?

How does the style of The Federalist Chardonnay differ from Sanford Chardonnay?

Which non-traditional food pairings could you try with The Federalist Chardonnay?

What’s the weirdest wine and food pairing Chuck ever had?

Which classic childhood food would Chuck pair with The Federalist Chardonnay?

What’s Chuck’s controversial take on the natural wine movement?

Why are low-alcohol wines less flavourful?

Why is The American Vintage Chuck’s favourite wine book?

How can you keep your wine fresh when you don’t want to finish the bottle?

Which unlikely celebrity trio would Chuck like to share a bottle of wine with?

If Chuck could have a billboard in California, what would it say?

What wine would Chuck want to be served at his funeral?

Key Takeaways

Chuck gives a great explanation for the tradeoff between flavour and alcohol.

I love Chuck’s unusual pairings for Chardonnay.

Chuck gives some great tips about finding excellent value in California wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Chuck Cramer

Chuck Cramer is a 4th generation Los Angeleno, living in London for the past 22 years. In addition to hosting a wine podcast dedicated to CA wine, On The Road With Mr CA Wine, Chuck is the director of European sales & marketing for Terlato Wines, managing a gorgeous portfolio of CA wines across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. He’s also the proud dad of two beautiful women, plays tennis four times a week and bleeds Dodger Blue!

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/216.

215: California's Diverse Regions and Wines with Chuck Cramer, Host of On the Road with Mr CA Wine Jan 11, 2023

Are you curious about California wine, especially the differences between the various regions? What big trends have changed the California wines you drink for the past 5 years? What would surprise you most about the Napa wine region?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Chuck Cramer, host of On The Road With Mr CA Wine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was it like for Chuck to do stand-up comedy for the first time in London?

How does California’s Terlato Wines gain access to small European markets that can’t ship directly from California?

Why does Chuck love changing people’s minds when it comes to Chardonnay?

Why Chuck did start his podcast, On The Road With Mr CA Wine?

How did Chuck integrate a signature California vibe into his podcast?

What’s behind the huge value and opportunity created by having a podcast?

What do you need to know about the California wine industry?

Which California wine regions should you be aware of?

Which California wine trends have emerged over the last 5-10 years?

Key Takeaways

California has an incredible number of wine regions that exhibit a diverse range of climates and soils.

Several big trends, such as more regional specificity and lower alcohol wines, among others, have changed the California wines we drink over the past 5 years.

Although the Napa wine region is renowned, it represents only 4% of all California wine produced. Now that’s great brand marketing and quality.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Chuck Cramer

Chuck Cramer is a 4th generation Los Angeleno, living in London for the past 22 years. In addition to hosting a wine podcast dedicated to CA wine, On The Road With Mr CA Wine, Chuck is the director of European sales & marketing for Terlato Wines, managing a gorgeous portfolio of CA wines across the UK, Europe and the Middle East. He’s also the proud dad of two beautiful women, plays tennis four times a week and bleeds Dodger Blue!

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/215.

214: Tips to Moderate Your Wine Consumption with Consumed Podcast Host, Jaime Lewis Jan 04, 2023

How does deepening your understanding of wine help you maintain a healthy relationship with it? Why do memoirs help us to connect with characters even more deeply than fiction? Which moderation tools and techniques can you use when drinking wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by journalist Jaime Lewis for her podcast, CONSUMED.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What does “day in the life” writing look like?

How does deepening your understanding of wine help you maintain a healthy relationship with it?

How will my third book, Wine Witch on Fire, differ from my first two?

Why is a well-written book able to change your life?

What do I love about memoirs and the reader’s ability to transition the characters into the real world?

Which moderation tools and techniques do I use when drinking wine?

How did a combination of therapy and medication help me to manage my depression?

What steps did I take to build my own platform with intention?

Who can benefit from my Wine Smart online food and wine pairing course?

What do I do to take care of myself daily?

How do I define being an introvert?

What would I eat and drink, and who would I invite if it was my last day on Earth?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jaime Lewis

Jaime writes, speaks and podcasts about the good life. After an arts management career that included employment with Architecture New York Magazine, the San Francisco Symphony and the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Jaime chose to follow her nose (and palate) into the wine industry. Jaime has participated in nearly every moment of a wine’s life, from planting and bottling to selling. In addition to blogging about her personal year-long journey through the world, Jaime has written product, promotional and web copy for acclaimed wineries including Robert Mondavi, Firestone, Tantara, Herman Story, Laetitia, and Sans Liege.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/214.

213: Tasting Room Tips to Learn about Wine with Jaime Lewis, Host of the Consumed Podcast Dec 28, 2022

How can tasting rooms help you enjoyably expand your knowledge of wine? Which experiences led me to perfect the art of the outsider at a young age? Why does capturing our experiences in words have such a profound impact on us? What can you learn from side-by-side tastings?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by journalist Jaime Lewis for her podcast, CONSUMED.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Which experiences led me to perfect the art of the outsider at a young age?

How did my mother influence my love for writing?

What was Jaime’s inspiration for becoming a wine writer?

Where do writing and computer programming have a lot of parallels?

What role did California play in my love for wine?

How can tasting rooms help you enjoyably expand your knowledge of wine?

What can you learn from side-by-side tastings?

How did a bottle of Brunello transform my perception of wine?

Why is it so powerful to capture our experiences in words?

What it means to “call up” and how did that help me to kick-start my writing career?

How has the freelance writing landscape changed in the years since I started?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jaime Lewis

Jaime writes, speaks and podcasts about the good life. After an arts management career that included employment with Architecture New York Magazine, the San Francisco Symphony and the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Jaime chose to follow her nose (and palate) into the wine industry. Jaime has participated in nearly every moment of a wine’s life, from planting and bottling to selling. In addition to blogging about her personal year-long journey through the world, Jaime has written product, promotional and web copy for acclaimed wineries including Robert Mondavi, Firestone, Tantara, Herman Story, Laetitia, and Sans Liege.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/213.

212: Time Travel via Wine with Dani Shapiro, Bestselling Author of Signal Fires Dec 21, 2022

How do food and wine play a role in Dabi Shapiro's latest bestselling novel, Signal Fires? As a writer, what’s it like to encounter others experiencing your work? Why do certain wines seem to transport us back to a specific moment in time?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dani Shapiro, bestselling author and host of the Family Secrets podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you in the U.S. will win a copy of Dani Shapiro's fabulous new book, Signal Fires.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

What can you expect from Dani's latest book, Signal Fires?

What makes Dani’s style particularly interesting?

How did the story develop, and what inspired Dani to pick back up where she left off in 2020?

Why was patience such an integral part of Signal Fires becoming successful?

What’s the story behind the real-life CT restaurant that inspired Theo’s restaurant in Signal Fires?

As a writer, what’s it like to experience others reading and being moved by your work?

How do the unconscious connections threaded throughout a work of fiction create opportunities for readers to co-create with the author?

How does Virginia Woolf’s influence show up in Signal Fires?

Why do certain wines seem to transport us back to a specific moment?

What does Dani love most about having her podcast, Family Secrets?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dani Shapiro

Dani Shapiro is the author of eleven books, and the host and creator of the hit podcast Family Secrets. Her most recent novel, Signal Fires, was named a best book of 2022 by Time Magazine, Washington Post, Amazon, and others, and is a national bestseller. Her most recent memoir, Inheritance, was an instant New York Times Bestseller, and named a best book of 2019 by Elle, Vanity Fair, Wired, and Real Simple. Dani’s work has been published in fourteen languages and she’s currently developing Signal Fires for its television adaptation. Dani’s book on the process and craft of writing, Still Writing, is being reissued on the occasion of its tenth anniversary in 2023. She occasionally teaches workshops and retreats, and is the co-founder of the Sirenland Writers Conference in Positano, Italy.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/212.

211: Food, Wine and Family Secrets with Dani Shapiro, Bestselling Author of Signal Fires Dec 14, 2022

How can wine and food back memories of more than just the food and drink themselves? Why are so many family secrets associated with food and drink? How has the publishing world changed, and what does it mean for up-and-coming writers?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dani Shapiro, bestselling author and host of the Family Secrets podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you in the U.S. will win a copy of Dani Shapiro's fabulous new book, Signal Fires.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

What are Dani’s strongest childhood memories of gathering for family meals?

Why did Dani especially love her mother’s brisket?

Which important life lesson did Dani learn via a bottle of olive oil from Provence?

How does biodynamic winemaking bring an extra layer of care to the process?

What’s Dani’s ideal setting for having a glass of wine?

Why did Dani fall in love with California’s Thumbprint Cellars’ Cabernet?

What makes the sense of smell unique compared to our other senses?

Which types of food would Dani pair with Thumbprint Cellars’ Cabernet?

How did Dani end up on the path of a writing career?

Why does Dani urge young writers to slow down?

How has the publishing world changed, and what does it mean for up-and-coming writers?

What was the most embarrassing moment of Dani’s writing career?

How can you build a successful career in a creative field?

What has been the best moment of Dani’s writing career so far?

Why did Dani move away from fiction and into the genre of memoir?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Dani Shapiro

Dani Shapiro is the author of eleven books, and the host and creator of the hit podcast Family Secrets. Her most recent novel, Signal Fires, was named a best book of 2022 by Time Magazine, Washington Post, Amazon, and others, and is a national bestseller. Her most recent memoir, Inheritance, was an instant New York Times Bestseller, and named a best book of 2019 by Elle, Vanity Fair, Wired, and Real Simple. Dani’s work has been published in fourteen languages and she’s currently developing Signal Fires for its television adaptation. Dani’s book on the process and craft of writing, Still Writing, is being reissued on the occasion of its tenth anniversary in 2023. She occasionally teaches workshops and retreats, and is the co-founder of the Sirenland Writers Conference in Positano, Italy.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/211.

210: Why Pay More for Wine, British Bubbly and Glassware with The Wine Bible's Karen MacNeil Dec 07, 2022

Which new and emerging wine regions should be on your radar to try soon? Why should you pay more for wine? How does glassware change the taste of your wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you who are based in the U.S. are going to win a personally signed copy of Karen MacNeil's terrific new book, The Wine Bible.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

Which new regions and eras did Karen include in this new edition of The Wine Bible, and why?

After the first edition, what important lesson did Karen take away about planning her writing?

Why was Greece the most difficult region for Karen to research?

How did shipping restrictions make it almost impossible for Karen to sample Canadian wines?

What tragic outcome awaits Vitis vinifera if climate change continues on its current trajectory?

What can we do as wine buyers to help mitigate the impact of climate change?

Why should you pay more for wine?

Which historic food and wine pairings did Karen discover?

What's Karen’s favourite weird wine and food pairing?

Why did Karen create her Flavor First™ Wine Glasses?

Which controversial take does Karen have on wine glasses and food pairing?

Why does Karen have a glass of Champagne every night?

How does Karen ensure she’s drinking and tasting mindfully?

Which political figures would Karen love to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

I love the new and emerging wine regions Karen puts on your radar to try, like sparkling wine from England.

She makes a great case for paying more for wine, especially when you do an apples-to-apples comparison between the cost of that overpriced latte and a glass of wine. She’s right that we can’t want to drink super inexpensively and want our wine to be organic, biodynamic, and as natural as it can be at the same time. It doesn't compute financially.

I’m intrigued to try her line of glassware based on flavour rather than grape.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Karen MacNeil

One of the foremost wine experts in the United States, Karen MacNeil is the only American to have won every major wine award given in the English Language. In a full-page profile on her, Time magazine called Karen, “America’s Missionary of the Vine.” Karen is the author of the award-winning book THE WINE BIBLE, the single bestselling wine book in the United States, with more than 800,000 copies sold.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/210.

209: Creating The Wine Bible: Behind-the-Scenes with Author Karen MacNeil Nov 30, 2022

What did it take to create The Wine Bible, a 700-page masterwork on wine? What makes The Wine Bible so different from other popular wine tomes? How did the pandemic make it much harder to research and write this latest edition of this book and what creative methods did the author use to overcome those obstacles?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you who are based in the U.S. are going to win a personally signed copy of Karen MacNeil's terrific new book, The Wine Bible.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

Why did school become an oasis for Karen in her childhood?

When did Karen have her first introduction to wine?

What drew Karen to make the move to New York City at 19?

How did Karen’s passion for writing keep her motivated through hundreds of rejections?

How did Karen make her way into the closed-off, male-dominated world of wine in the 1970s?

How did the quest to be a better wine writer lead Karen to move across the country to Napa?

Where did the idea for The Wine Bible originate?

Why was Karen initially against the name “The Wine Bible”?

Why does it take Karen years to publish each new edition of The Wine Bible?

What makes The Wine Bible different and more relatable than other popular wine books?

What was the hardest thing for Karen to leave out of The Wine Bible?

How did COVID make it much harder for Karen to reach the people and wines she needed while working on the third edition of The Wine Bible?

Key Takeaways

I loved hearing the behind-the-scenes stories of what it took to create The Wine Bible, especially with so many entries, maps, and illustrations.

I know from personal experience that it’s a much different read from other popular wine tomes, more conversational and engaging.

Karen is no stranger to overcoming obstacles, and she used that scrappy tenacity to press through the pandemic and complete this major work.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Karen MacNeil

One of the foremost wine experts in the United States, Karen MacNeil is the only American to have won every major wine award given in the English Language. In a full-page profile on her, Time magazine called Karen, “America’s Missionary of the Vine.” Karen is the author of the award-winning book THE WINE BIBLE, the single bestselling wine book in the United States, with more than 800,000 copies sold.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/209.

208: Digital Corks, Tasting Tokens and the Future of Wine Drinking with David Garrett Nov 23, 2022

How do digital corks allow winemakers to participate in the resale of their wines among collectors? What are tasting tokens, and what exciting new experiences do they offer both winemakers and consumers? What new trends and technologies will impact the wines you drink in the future?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing David Garrett, the co-founder of a global non-fungible token (NFT) wine club, Club dVIN.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of David Garrett's gorgeous book, The Winemakers of Paso Robles. This Californian wine region produces amazing wines.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the book. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

How does NFC technology increase the detailed provenance data available for wine?

How do digital corks allow winemakers to participate in value creation in the aftermarket?

What are tasting tokens, and what exciting new opportunities do they provide for connecting winemakers and consumers?

How does NFT technology make it significantly easier to track down wine counterfeiters?

What makes Club dVIN’s process more environmentally friendly?

How have NFTs been used to raise millions for charity in collaboration with renowned wine critic Robert Parker?

Why is 2019 Château Cos D'estournel David’s go-to wine?

Key Takeaways

I love the idea that winemakers can participate in the profit from reselling their wines via digital corks. It’s very similar to painters and other artists who should be able to accrue some of the value in secondary markets like auctions.

Tasting tokens provide some exciting new experiences for winemakers and consumers to connect more deeply.

I enjoyed David’s discussion of other new trends and technologies that will impact the wines we drink in the future.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About David Garrett

Since graduating from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science, David Garrett has spent more than 25 years in the fields of tech, wine and finance. In 1994, he co-founded IntraACTIVE, a software company that built the original Intranet for the US Navy. After he sold his company in 2004, he co-founded The Vines of Mendoza, developing more than 1,500 acres of vineyard land in Argentina as well as a five -star resort and restaurant. In 2013, he led a group of investors to buy the largest vineyard in Priorat, Spain. Today, he’s the co-founder of Club dVIN, a global non-fungible token (NFT) wine club.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/208.

207: How Blockchain and Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) Will Change How You Buy Wine with David Garrett Nov 16, 2022

Are you curious about how blockchain technology will transform how you buy and collect wine? How do non-fungible tokens, or NFTs, play a role? How can blockchain technology help to prevent counterfeit wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing David Garrett, the co-founder of a global non-fungible token (NFT) wine club, Club dVIN.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Why did David make the move from tech to wine?

How did meeting Santiago Achával transform David’s understanding of wine?

What was it like building a vineyard on virgin land in the Uco Valley in Argentina?

Which big lessons did David learn in the 10 years it took to start producing wine at his vineyard?

How did David bring a data-oriented approach to winemaking?

How did the unique private vineyard estate program at the Vines of Mendoza operate?

Where does the biggest problem with counterfeit wine lie?

How does blockchain technology help to disincentivize counterfeit wines?

What is a blockchain and how does it help to clarify provenance?

What’s the relationship between cryptocurrency and a blockchain?

What are non-fungible tokens (NFTs)?

How do you create an NFT for a bottle of wine?

What are the benefits of NFTs for wine?

Key Takeaways

David had such a clear and concrete way of explaining how blockchain technology will transform how you buy and collect wine?

I also liked his comparisons to buying land or a house with non-fungible tokens, or NFTs.

I was glad to hear that blockchain technology may help prevent counterfeit wines.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About David Garrett

Since graduating from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science, David Garrett has spent more than 25 years in the fields of tech, wine and finance. In 1994, he co-founded IntraACTIVE, a software company that built the original Intranet for the US Navy. After he sold his company in 2004, he co-founded The Vines of Mendoza, developing more than 1,500 acres of vineyard land in Argentina as well as a five -star resort and restaurant. In 2013, he led a group of investors to buy the largest vineyard in Priorat, Spain. Today, he’s the co-founder of Club dVIN, a global non-fungible token (NFT) wine club.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/207.

206: Minerality in Wine, Great Hybrid Grapes & What Jimi Hendrix Can Teach Winemakers with Aleks Zecevic Nov 09, 2022

Is minerality a flavour or a texture? What does it feel or taste like? Why do wines made from hybrid grapes deserve your attention? What can winemakers learn from Jimi Hendrix?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing Aleks Zecevic, wine writer and host of the Vintners podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How does Ewald Tscheppe of Werlitsch get a unique texture to his wines?

How did carrots help Aleks improve his understanding of and appreciation for biodynamic wine?

What distinguishes Werlitsch Ex Vero I, II, and III?

Which common characteristics will you taste in most wines from Styria, Austria?

What will you experience when tasting Werlitsch Ex Vero III?

Is minerality a flavour or a texture?

What do I especially love about the mouthfeel of Rockway Vineyards Small Lot Syrah?

How does Slovenian influence show up in the wines of north east Italy?

What is the Carso?

How does the terroir come through in Zidarich Vitovska 2017?

Why are some grapes called hybrids while other crossed varieties are not?

Why are hybrid grapes increasing in popularity?

What makes Vitis vinifera more susceptible to disease and environmental damage?

Why are hybrid grapes more environmentally friendly and better suited for climate change?

What can winemakers learn from Jimi Hendrix?

Why does Aleks connect with vinyl records more than digital music?

What’s the mission behind the Vintners platform?

Key Takeaways

I thought Aleks’ explanation of how minerality affects both flavour and texture helpful.

Wines made from hybrid grapes will increasingly become part of our drinking menu both due to climate change as well as their improved taste and diversity of flavours.

I loved his tip on what winemakers can learn from Jimi Hendrix.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Aleks Zecevic

Aleks Zecevic was born in Belgrade, Serbia, and emigrated to New York City to study journalism at New York University. After graduating, he completed WSET courses and worked at the Wine Spectator, becoming one of the lead tasters at the magazine. He joined the renowned auction house Sotheby’s as a fine wine specialist. Currently, he reviews Austrian wines for Wine Enthusiast and is part of the newly founded Vintners platform, where he creates content and hosts the Vintner’s podcast.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/206.

205: Wine Spectator and Sotheby's Auction House Dream Jobs with Aleks Zecevic Nov 02, 2022

What's it like to work at the prestigious Wine Spectator magazine and Sotheby’s fine wine auction house? How can you distinguish real wine from fakes? What’s the secret to putting together the perfect wine flight?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing Aleks Zecevic, wine writer and host of the Vintners podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What is Vouvray, France, famous for in the world of wine?

What was it like to taste the “Victory Vintage” at François Pinon with the winemaker who made the wine in 1945?

How did Aleks realize he wanted to be a wine writer?

What’s the secret to putting together the perfect wine flight?

What’s it like to work at the prestigious Wine Spectator magazine?

What does it take to go from tasting coordinator to a reviewer at Wine Spectator?

How did Aleks hone his wine-tasting skills before he became a reviewer?

Which aspects of the vineyards make Premier Cru different from Grand Cru?

What was the reaction from the wine industry once Aleks was the lead reviewer for several wine regions?

Why did Aleks leave Wine Spectator to become a fine wine specialist at Sotheby’s?

What did Aleks look for when examining high-end wine collections as a fine wine inspector?

How high do auction sales go for rare wines from wineries like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti?

Why do regulatory bodies create region-specific wine rules through wine-of-origin laws?

Why don’t some newer wines qualify to get their designation of origin?

How do these wine-of-origin laws put some high-quality producers at a disadvantage?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at Alek’s wine dream jobs with the Wine Spectator magazine and Sotheby’s fine wine auction.

He had some helpful tips on distinguishing real wine from fakes.

I agree with his tips on putting together flights of wine, from lightest to heaviest.

I thought it was interesting that Grand Cru vineyards don’t have a lot of topsoil and thus, the berries have more concentration and the wine has more complexity.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Aleks Zecevic

Aleks Zecevic was born in Belgrade, Serbia, and emigrated to New York City to study journalism at New York University. After graduating, he completed WSET courses and worked at the Wine Spectator, becoming one of the lead tasters at the magazine. He joined the renowned auction house Sotheby’s as a fine wine specialist. Currently, he reviews Austrian wines for Wine Enthusiast and is part of the newly founded Vintners platform, where he creates content and hosts the Vintner’s podcast.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/205.

204: Canadian Wines, Grapes & Styles with Drink Adventures' James Atkinson Oct 26, 2022

Is Icewine the major part of Canada’s wine industry? How does Icewine compare to other dessert wines like Sauternes? How has climate change impacted Canadian winemaking?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by James Atkinson, drinks journalist and host of the Drinks Adventures podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Is Icewine still a major part of Canada’s wine industry?

What makes the process of harvesting grapes for Icewine so unique?

How does Icewine compare to other dessert wines like Sauternes?

How has the Canadian wine industry evolved over the years since the opening of our first commercial winery in the late 70s?

Where are the most established wine regions and varieties in Canada?

Which unique Canadian signature elements will you recognize compared to Old World wines?

How has climate change impacted Canadian winemaking?

Why did I start Unreserved Wine Talk?

What have been some of my highlights from the past four years of conversations on the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast?

How is my upcoming memoir different from my first two books?

Which darker aspects of the wine industry do I explore in my memoir?

Are Australian wines popular in Canada?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About James Atkinson

James Atkinson is the creator of the Drinks Adventures podcast and winner of Best Podcast at the Australian Wine Communicator Awards 2021. A lover of all fine drinks, James was previously editor of Australian Brews News and drinks industry publication TheShout. A Certified Cicerone® (beer sommelier) and two-time winner of the Australian International Beer Awards prize for Best Media, James has judged at several prestigious beer competitions. As a journalist, he has contributed to publications including The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, Halliday, Gourmet Traveller Wine, Good Food, Selector and more.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/204.

203: Wine & Global Weirding, Canadian Wine and New Regions with Brian Freedman Oct 19, 2022

As a wine lover, what can you do to help mitigate the impact of climate change? Why do many experts consider the phrase “global warming” a big marketing mistake? How is climate change pushing the boundaries of where great wine comes from?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing Brian Freedman, wine and spirits educator and author of Crushed: How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Brian Freedman's terrific new book, Crushed: How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the bottle. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

What surprised Brian about the impact of climate change on the world of spirits?

Why do many experts consider the phrase “global warming” a big marketing mistake?

How does climate change disproportionately impact those who can least afford it?

Why is a long-term planning horizon essential in the wine industry?

What does it mean for a wine to “channel the ineffable truth of a vineyard”?

Which rich, complex aromas and flavour notes can you expect from Kutch Pinot Noir 2016?

Why do I especially love Sperling Vineyards Speritz Pet-Nat of the various Pet-Nats I’ve tried?

What fascinating long wine history exists in the Judean Hills, Israel?

How does Shiloh Secret Reserve Petit Verdot 2018 highlight the diversity and range of the Israeli wine industry?

Why is it so important to keep an open mind about wine?

How is climate change pushing the boundaries of where great wine comes from?

How will Crushed help you to broaden your palate?

What impact has Brian seen with climate change on Canadian wine?

What’s Brian’s prognosis for the future of the wine industry?

Who are the two people Brian would most want to be able to share a bottle of wine with?

Which inspirational wine message would Brian put on a billboard?

Key Takeaways

I loved Brian’s practical tips for what we can do, as wine lovers, to help mitigate the impact of climate change.

I agree with him that the phrase “global warming” is a big marketing mistake. Global weirding is much better in describing the extreme weather events we’re experiencing around the planet.

I found Brian’s insights into how climate change is pushing the boundaries of where great wine comes from fascinating.

About Brian Freedman

Brian Freedman is a wine, spirits, travel, and food writer, restaurant and beverage consultant, and wine and spirits educator. He regularly contributes to Food & Wine, Forbes.com, Whisky Advocate, and SevenFifty Daily, and has contributed to Travel + Leisure, The Bourbon Review, and more. He also hosted wine and spirit pairing segments on the CNN Airport Network. Freedman has traveled extensively throughout the world and the United States to experience the food, drink, and culture for his work. He lives outside of Philadelphia.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/203.

202: "Crushed: How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink" with Brian Freedman Oct 12, 2022

Are you curious about the deeper, less obvious impacts of climate change on wine? How is it different from the impact on our food? What are Israeli winemakers doing to bring back a whole ecosystem approach?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing Brian Freedman, wine and spirits educator and author of Crushed: How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three of you are going to win a personally signed copy of Brian Freedman's terrific new book, Crushed: How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink.

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the bottle. I’ll select the winners randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

What are Brian’s top tips for moving a large wine collection?

How did Brian’s father help him learn to appreciate wine's nuances?

Which favourite childhood dish would Brian now pair with a Napa Cabernet?

Which wine jump-started my wine journey?

When did Brian realize he wanted to make wine his career?

What embarrassing story did Brian’s daughter share with her class on the first day of preschool?

How does Brian’s wife perceive favour differently from most people?

What can you expect from Brian’s new book, Crushed: How a Changing Climate Is Altering the Way We Drink?

How do you continue to make world-class wines in increasingly desert-like conditions?

What are Israeli winemakers doing to bring back the whole ecosystem approach?

Why did Brian want to write about the issue of climate change?

Key Takeaways

I appreciated how Brian dug into the less obvious impact of climate change or global weirding on wine from freak spring frosts to a persistent wildfire season.

He also helped us understand how those changes are different from what’s happening to our food system, especially when winemakers get just once chance each year to get it right.

I was fascinated to learn how Israeli winemakers are bringing back a whole ecosystem approach.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Brian Freedman

Brian Freedman is a wine, spirits, travel, and food writer, restaurant and beverage consultant, and wine and spirits educator. He regularly contributes to Food & Wine, Forbes.com, Whisky Advocate, and SevenFifty Daily, and has contributed to Travel + Leisure, The Bourbon Review, and more. He also hosted wine and spirit pairing segments on the CNN Airport Network. Freedman has traveled extensively throughout the world and the United States to experience the food, drink, and culture for his work. He lives outside of Philadelphia.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/202.

201: Riesling, the Four-Octave Diva + Austrian Wine Revival with Valerie Kathawala Oct 05, 2022

Why should we change the way we talk about Riesling? How have Austrian and German wines transformed in recent years? How can you pair German-speaking wines with food?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing journalist and co-founder of TRINK magazine, Valerie Kathawala.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How is Skinny Pablo recontextualizing Riesling for younger generations?

What happened in Austria’s antifreeze scandal in the mid-80s?

How has Austria’s wine industry transformed for the better since that scandal?

Has the Blue Nun brand hurt or helped the German wine industry?

Why do we need to change how we talk about Riesling?

What makes Riesling the perfect deserted island wine?

Which unique characteristics will you experience from Beuerer wines?

How do the qualities of the Beamsville Bench make it particularly well-suited for growing Riesling?

What makes Weingut Bianka und Daniel Schmitt’s Frei.Körper.Kultur Rosé the perfect summer sipper?

What controversial opinion does Valerie hold on wine experts?

Which defining aromas does Valerie associate with her childhood?

How would Valerie now pair one of her favourite childhood food with wine?

Why are wine glasses Valerie's favourite wine gadgets?

What are Valerie’s favourite wine books?

What was the vision behind creating TRINK Magazine?

Key Takeaways

I agree with Valerie that we need to change the way we talk about Riesling. It’s so versatile in style, taste, and food pairing potential. It doesn’t deserve to be pigeonholed into outdated stereotypes.

I was interested in her insights on how Austrian and German wines have transformed in recent years.

I love her tips on how German-speaking wines, especially with their acidity and salinity, give energy to their taste and help them pair well with food.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Valerie Kathawala

Valerie Kathawala is a freelance journalist focused on the wines of Germany, Austria, South Tyrol, and Switzerland, with a particular interest in biodynamics. She’s a lifelong student of German culture and language and has lived and worked in both Germany and Austria. She crossed over from translation and editorial work at the United Nations to writing about “German-speaking wines” and hasn’t looked back since.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/201.

200: German-Speaking Wines and Biodynamic Winemaking with Valerie Kathawala Sep 28, 2022

Are you curious about German-speaking wines and which ones you should try? Why is biodynamic winemaking particularly important for viticulture? What’s the real difference between natural wine and biodynamic wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing journalist and co-founder of TRINK magazine, Valerie Kathawala.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was it like to be a German translator at the UN in the time of the Iraq War?

How did Valerie’s interest in language - German in particular - develop?

What was the catalyst for Valerie to start her wine journey?

How did Valerie’s lifelong love of storytelling and writing show up before her wine career?

What made a writing trip to visit Rudi Tossen in the Mosel region of Germany the highlight of Valerie’s wine career so far?

What was the most painful mistake of Valerie’s wine career so far?

How does Valerie find the balance between connecting with people to get the story while asking the hard questions?

What is biodynamic winemaking and why is it particularly important for viticulture?

How do biodynamic practices offer some protection against climate change?

What are some common misconceptions about biodynamics?

Why is biodynamic farming an empowering tool for growers?

Where did biodynamic viticulture come from?

What are the characteristics of German-speaking wines?

How do you know when you have a great story?

What was Valerie surprised to learn about the natural wine scene in the Mosel?

What’s the difference between natural wine and biodynamic wine?

Which German estate played an important role in the resistance movement during World War II?

How did a labour scandal spotlight poor practices in the natural wine industry?

Key Takeaways

I loved how she described German-speaking wines as sharing a certain mindset, tradition and values, grape varieties, winemaking approaches, geography, and climate.

I agree with her that biodynamic winemaking provides an excellent framework for wine growers to keep vines in equilibrium to stay healthy.

Her explanation of the differences between natural wine and biodynamic wine was insightful.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Valerie Kathawala

Valerie Kathawala is a freelance journalist focused on the wines of Germany, Austria, South Tyrol, and Switzerland, with a particular interest in biodynamics. She’s a lifelong student of German culture and language and has lived and worked in both Germany and Austria. She crossed over from translation and editorial work at the United Nations to writing about “German-speaking wines” and hasn’t looked back since.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/200.

199: Wine Temperatures and Tasting Tricks with Wines to Find Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester Sep 21, 2022

Are you drinking your wine at the wrong temperature? Which wine gadgets will help you explore new wines without overindulging? Why should you breathe out through your nose after sipping wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing by Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester, hosts of the Wines To Find podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Which dishes do Sandy and Michelle love to cook and which wines make great pairings?

What are the sisters’ all-time favourite wine and food pairings?

Where are Sandy and Michelle’s favourite places to enjoy a glass of wine?

What makes the tasting experience of Kinero Cellars Alice Grenache Blanc particularly enjoyable?

What’s the flavour profile of Sperling Vineyards Pinto Gris?

Which foods can you pair with Kinero Cellars Alice Grenache Blanc?

Which wine gadgets are Sandy and Michelle’s favourite?

What controversial wine opinions do the sisters hold?

What were the memorable smells from Sandy and Michelle’s childhood?

Which favourite childhood food would Sandy and Michelle now pair with wine?

What are Sandy and Michelle’s favourite wine books?

How can you choose the right wine to gift?

In a dream world, who would Sandy and Michelle want to share a bottle of wine with?

Which red wine warning would Sandy and Michelle want to put on a downtown billboard?

What are Sandy and Michelle’s top tips for improving your wine enjoyment?

Key Takeaways

I loved their tips on drinking wine at the right temperature and breathing out through your nose after you sip it for maximum pleasure.

They also had some great suggestions for gadgets will help you explore new wines without overindulging.

And I couldn’t agree more that sparkling wine is the perfect wine for gifting as well as pairing with fries.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester

The Wines To Find Podcast was created after the two hosts, sisters Sandy and Michelle, travelled together to France and Italy in 2019. Both sisters are wine enthusiasts that have tracked their wine purchases, palates and pairings for years. As a way to continue the thrill of their European trip and to document their wine journey, they created the Wines To Find Podcast with the goal of spending time together, further growing their palates, and sharing wine stories from guests. Wines To Find features two new wines tasted for the first time by the sisters & guests, who span the spectrum of the wine industry from winemakers, owners, growers, sommeliers, fellow enthusiasts and more.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/199.

198: Horizontal and Vertical Tastings with Wines to Find Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester Sep 14, 2022

What’s the single best thing you can do to improve your tasting skills? How can you discover some unusual but delicious food and wine pairings? How does music change the taste of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm interviewing by Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester, hosts of the Wines To Find podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

When did Sandy and Michelle discover their love of wine?

How did a trip to European wine country inspire Sandy and Michelle to start the Wines To Find Podcast?

How do the sisters use YouTube to give their audience added value?

Where did the name “Wines To Find” come from?

How do Sandy and Michelle choose new wines to try in each podcast episode?

How does the Wines to Find scoring system work?

Which online systems does Michelle use to find new wines and wineries she might like?

Is there a grape style over which the sisters disagree?

Who have been Sandy and Michelle’s favourite Wines To Find guests so far?

Can music affect our perception of wine?

Key Takeaways

I love their approach to learning about wine through vertical and horizontal tastings, whether that’s picking maybe one grape, but it's grown in different countries, or perhaps go with one region. It's that side-by-side comparison that is so illustrative of the differences between wines.

They share some interesting tips on how you discover some unusual but delicious food and wine pairings.

I found their insights into how music can change the taste of wine fascinating.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Sandy Dawkins and Michelle Lester

The Wines To Find Podcast was created after the two hosts, sisters Sandy and Michelle, travelled together to France and Italy in 2019. Both sisters are wine enthusiasts that have tracked their wine purchases, palates and pairings for years. As a way to continue the thrill of their European trip and to document their wine journey, they created the Wines To Find Podcast with the goal of spending time together, further growing their palates, and sharing wine stories from guests. Wines To Find features two new wines tasted for the first time by the sisters & guests, who span the spectrum of the wine industry from winemakers, owners, growers, sommeliers, fellow enthusiasts and more.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/198.

197: Detecting Wine Aromas with Candy + Go South for Value with Lori Budd Sep 07, 2022

Which candy-based trick can you use to teach yourself new flavors and aromas? What makes discovering a bargain wine more exciting than luxury wine? What does the tip “go south” mean when it comes to hidden values in wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Lori Budd, winemaker, writer and host of the Exploring The Wine Glass podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What makes finding an amazing bargain wine even more exciting than an expensive wine?

Why you should consider going south on your search for a new great wine to try?

How do food and wine elevate each other when paired well?

Why do I prefer to pair food with wine versus the other way around?

What is my favourite food and wine pairing?

Which candy-based trick can you use to teach yourself new flavours and aromas?

How can you pair wine and chocolate without ending in disaster?

What makes technology and wine a perfect pairing?

How do my website wine tools and mobile apps make choosing and pairing wine easy?

Which luxury wine would I wish to have if I were stranded on a desert island?

Why do I love podcasting?

Lori’s Opposites Game

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Lori Budd

Lori Budd began her career as a microbiologist, but her need for excitement led her into Adventure Education, teaching students how to rock climb, zip line and tie those all important survival knots. Along the way, she fell in love with wine and graduated from the prestigious UC Davis enology program, along with certifications from a number of other wine programs. She and her husband, Michael, own Dracaena Wines in Paso Robles. She’s consumed by the stories that unfold as each glass is poured, and shares those in her award-winning blog and podcast called Exploring the Glass.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/197.

196: Romantic Poets & Wine and Why Champagne on Ordinary Days with Lori Budd Aug 31, 2022

How does John Keats connect the romantic poets to wine? Why should you consider Champagne for other occasions outside of big celebrations? How do you handle the sting of rejection as an up-and-coming writer?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Lori Budd, winemaker, writer and host of the Exploring The Wine Glass podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How does John Keats connect my studies of romantic poets with my career in wine?

What unexpected beauty can you find in cemeteries across the world?

Which enduring traits do I attribute to my years of Highland dancing?

How did I find my way to wine?

What makes wine such a great medium for building connections?

Which wine memory stands out the most in my career so far?

Why is my love for writing central in everything I do in my career?

How do you handle the sting of rejection as an up-and-coming writer?

What was it like to be awarded World’s Best Wine Writer?

Which unforgettable experiences did I have while researching Red, White, and Drunk All Over?

Why is listening to audiobooks now my favourite way to “read”?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Lori Budd

Lori Budd began her career as a microbiologist, but her need for excitement led her into Adventure Education, teaching students how to rock climb, zip line and tie those all important survival knots. Along the way, she fell in love with wine and graduated from the prestigious UC Davis enology program, along with certifications from a number of other wine programs. She and her husband, Michael, own Dracaena Wines in Paso Robles. She’s consumed by the stories that unfold as each glass is poured, and shares those in her award-winning blog and podcast called Exploring the Glass.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/196.

195: Differences Between Aroma and Bouquet and California Pinot Noir with Kerith Overstreet Aug 24, 2022

What’s the difference between aroma and bouquet in wine? How does "bright acidity" taste? Why does Pinot Noir from different regions in California taste dramatically different?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Kerith Overstreet, the winemaker at Bruliam Wines in Sonoma, California and a former medical doctor.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One listener in the U.S. will win a bottle of Bruliam's gorgeous Pinot Noir.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the bottle. I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

How do different areas in Sonoma and Monterey counties express themselves in Bruliam Pinot Noir?

Which decisions can winemakers make to influence how a Pinot Noir ends up?

Where is the Petaluma Gap AVA and how does the climate impact grapes?

What does bright acidity mean for your tasting experience?

How does the topography of the Mayacamas Mountain Range impact the weather pattern in surrounding grape-growing regions?

Why is oxygenation desirable but oxidation to be avoided when it comes to winemaking?

What’s the difference between aromas and bouquet in wine?

How does Kerith use humour to bring a human element to her wine writing?

Which embarrassing encounter led to Kerith’s sourcing her dream Santa Lucia Highlands fruit?

What characteristics does Kerith look for when tasting wines?

What’s the tasting experience like with 2019 Torrey Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir?

Which foods should you try with your next glass of Pinot Noir?

How would you describe tasting 2018 Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir?

What’s Kerith’s favourite childhood scent memory?

Which childhood favourite would Kerith pair with Champagne as an adult?

What are Kerith’s favourite wine book and wine gadget?

Which wine world celebrities would Kerith love to share a glass of wine with?

Key Takeaways

Kerith’s distinction of the differences between aroma and bouquet in wine was helpful, especially that bouquet is anything beyond the grape varietal character.

I liked her definition of how "bright acidity" tastes.

She gave us a great overview of how and why Pinot Noir from different regions in California taste dramatically different.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Kerith Overstreet

Kerith Overstreet is the winemaker at Bruliam Wines. When she was small, her dad used to say, “You can be whatever you want after medical school.” So she did. After completing medical school (U. of Rochester), residency, and two fellowships (UCSD), she thought winemaking sounded more fun.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/195.

194: Zinfandel Pairings, Magical AVAs and Yeast Secrets with Winemaker Kerith Overstreet Aug 17, 2022

Would you like to discover some weird but wonderful food pairings for zinfandel? How can American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) help you find new wines to love? How does yeast have a profound impact on wine’s taste?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Kerith Overstreet, the winemaker at Bruliam Wines in Sonoma, California and a former medical doctor.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

One listener in the U.S. will win a bottle of Bruliam's gorgeous Pinot Noir.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win the bottle. I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

Who is Chewie the Marketing Collie?

As a student of literature, who are Kerith’s favourite authors?

How did Kerith bring her love of the humanities into her medical studies?

When did Kerith develop her passion for wine?

How did Kerith realize she wanted to shift from being a medical doctor to a winemaker?

Are there intersections between Kerith’s science background and her approach as a winemaker?

What lessons has winemaking taught Kerith when it comes to her Type A personality?

How has the support of fellow winemakers impacted Kerith’s journey?

Why does Kerith love experimenting with yeast?

What is the inoculation process in winemaking?

What types of experiments does Kerith do in the winemaking process?

How did the name “Bruliam” come about?

What roles do Kerith and her husband, Brian, have at Bruliam?

Which features of Rockpile make the biggest impact in their wines?

Which creative route did Kerith take to getting access to Rockpile Zinfandel?

Which delicious treat should you try dunked in a glass of Zinfandel?

Which unusual but simple wine and food pairings should you try next?

How do customers feature as the highlight of Kerith’s career so far?

Key Takeaways

I loved Kerith’s pairing suggestions for zinfandel. They’re on my list to try this week.

She shares a great overview of how American Viticultural Areas (AVAs)can help us find the particular styles of wine we love.

Kerith even manages to make yeast interesting as she lets us know its profound impact on wine’s taste.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Kerith Overstreet

Kerith Overstreet is the winemaker at Bruliam Wines. When she was small, her dad used to say, “You can be whatever you want after medical school.” So she did. After completing medical school (U. of Rochester), residency, and two fellowships (UCSD), she thought winemaking sounded more fun.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/194.

193: Iconic Wisconsin Cheeses, Wine & Beta Readers with Author Joy Ribar Aug 10, 2022

Why is Wisconsin the most famous state in the US for its cheeses and what do they produce? Which iconic, delicious Wisconsin cheeses should you try? What is a beta reader and why would you want to become one?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Joy Ann Ribar, author of the Deep Lakes Cozy Mystery series.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three listeners are going to win a personally signed copy of Joy Ann Ribar's fabulous mystery books set in wine country.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy.. I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

What’s Frankie Champagne’s favourite type of wine?

Which surprising insights has Joy discovered in her wine research?

Why should you consider Wisconsin for your next visit to wine country?

How did Joy end up doing over 80 events online and in person to promote her Deep Lakes series?

How big is the Wisconsin cheese industry and why are the number of dairy farms on the decline?

Which iconic and innovative Wisconsin cheeses should you try?

What are some of the fun celebrations you can participate in around Wisconsin during Dairy Month?

What’s a beta reader and why are they important?

Why are beta readers still essential when you have a professional editor?

What’s behind the recent rise in reading and popularity of book clubs?

Why are stories such a catalyst for deep conversation?

Which aspects of my upcoming memoir did Joy connect with the most as a beta reader?

What can beta readers do beyond reading?

Key Takeaways

I had no idea just how much cheese Wisconsin produces and the range and variety of cheeses. Seven thousand dairy farms, wow.

I love Joy’s suggestions for which cheeses we should try from the state. I’d love to try the cave cheddar with its earthy notes and compare it to traditional British cheddar. I’d pair the cheeses with a firm cabernet or vintage port.

I hope our beta reader discussion will encourage you to become one. Just let me know.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Joy Ann Ribar

Joy Ann Ribar pens the Deep Lakes Cozy Mystery series at home in central Wisconsin. Joy’s life history is a cocktail of careers, including news reporter, paralegal, English educator, and college writing instructor. Her hobbies include baking, exploring the outdoors, and wine research. Joy infuses this mixture into her main character, Frankie Champagne, adding a special blend of sass and humour. Her writing is inspired by Wisconsin’s four distinct seasons, natural beauty, and kind-hearted, but sometimes quirky, people.

Joy holds a BA in Journalism from UW-Madison and an MS in Education from UW-Oshkosh..She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Blackbird Writers, and Wisconsin Writers Association. Joy and her husband, John, someday plan to sell their house, buy an RV, and travel around the U.S. spreading good cheer and hygge!

Joy is currently working on the next mystery in the Deep Lakes Cozy series: Deep Dire Harvest, coming in 2022.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/193.

192: Cozy Mysteries in Wine Country + Wisconsin Wines with Author Joy Ribar Aug 03, 2022

Would you like to hear about some fabulous mystery books that are set in wine country? What is it about books that encourage deep connections with readers? Are you curious about Wisconsin wines? Why are the state's wine region a beautiful place to visit?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Joy Ann Ribar, author of the Deep Lakes Cozy Mystery series.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

Three listeners are going to win a personally signed copy of Joy Ann Ribar's fabulous mystery books set in wine country.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you’d like to win a copy.. I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate.

Good luck!

Highlights

Why did Joy decide to start writing mystery novels after retiring from teaching?

What have been the best and worst moments of Joy’s writing career so far?

What is it about books that encourage deep connections with readers?

How did community theatre lead to Joy’s love for the wine world?

What is a cozy mystery?

Why are small towns the perfect setting for a cozy mystery?

How did Agatha Christie pave the way for the next generation of women writers?

How does Joy navigate the dark world of mystery writing research?

What wine-themed murders might Joy include in her upcoming books?

What is Joy’s Deep Lakes cozy mystery series about?

How does the lead character, Frankie Champagne’s, winery evolve over the series?

What’s the climate like in Wisconsin?

What are the key hallmarks of Wisconsin winemaking?

Which innovative ways have winemakers found for dealing with troublesome starlings?

Key Takeaways

I loved learning about what differentiates a cozy mystery from other types of mysteries. Who knew there were so many sub-genres? I love that Joy’s novels are set in wine country.

I didn’t know much about Wisconsin wines until I spoke to Joy. Now I’m curious to try them, and more so to visit such a beautiful state.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Joy Ann Ribar

Joy Ann Ribar pens the Deep Lakes Cozy Mystery series at home in central Wisconsin. Joy’s life history is a cocktail of careers, including news reporter, paralegal, English educator, and college writing instructor. Her hobbies include baking, exploring the outdoors, and wine research. Joy infuses this mixture into her main character, Frankie Champagne, adding a special blend of sass and humour. Her writing is inspired by Wisconsin’s four distinct seasons, natural beauty, and kind-hearted, but sometimes quirky, people.

Joy holds a BA in Journalism from UW-Madison and an MS in Education from UW-Oshkosh. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Blackbird Writers, and Wisconsin Writers Association. Joy and her husband, John, someday plan to sell their house, buy an RV, and travel around the U.S. spreading good cheer and hygge!

Joy is currently working on the next mystery in the Deep Lakes Cozy series: Deep Dire Harvest, coming in 2022.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/192.

191: Why Open That Special Bottle Tonight + Smell's Role in a Full Life with Jim Duane Jul 27, 2022

Why should you open that bottle of wine you’ve been saving? What makes Icewine such a difficult and expensive wine to produce? Why is the sense of smell such an important part of living a full life?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Jim Duane, winemaker and host of the Inside Winemaking Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Where are the major wine regions in Canada?

What makes Icewine such a tricky wine to produce?

Why is there so little Canadian wine in the US?

What’s the response to US wine in Canada?

How can you learn more about food and wine pairing with my free material?

Which dishes pair well with California Grenache?

What are the most common questions I get from wine newcomers?

Why should you open that bottle of wine you’ve been saving?

What are the most memorable aromas from my childhood?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jim Duane

Jim Duane studied biology at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington then worked at Brancott Vineyards in New Zealand. Hauling rocks in the vineyard, he says, helped him get ready for graduate school at the renowned University of California at Davis oenology program. In 2004, he moved to Napa where he’s been ever since.

Jim is now the winemaker at Seavey Vineyard in California's Napa Valley. Prior to that, he worked at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and Robert Mondavi Winery.

In 2014, he launched a podcast called Inside Winemaking, which is ranked one of the most popular wine podcasts. In 2021, he launched Terratorium Wines as a direct result of his podcast and winemaking classes. Jim and his wife Erin have two daughters that keep them busy. Recently, he notes, they logged four pulled-teeth in a 36-hour period.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/191.

190: Wine Stories, Food Pairings, and Canadian Wines with Inside Winemaking's Jim Duane Jul 20, 2022

What is it really like to be a wine industry insider? How can stories help you to learn? What makes Riesling one of the most food-friendly wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Jim Duane, winemaker and host of the Inside Winemaking Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was my path from high-tech marketer to wine writer?

How can you find out what it’s really like to be on the inside of the wine industry?

What can you expect from my upcoming third book?

How can novices and experts benefit from my online food and wine pairing classes?

Which types of food can you best pair with an off-dry Riesling?

How can you use the food and wine matching tool on my website to plan your next wine-paired dinner?

What do you need to know about Canadian wine?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jim Duane

Jim Duane studied biology at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington then worked at Brancott Vineyards in New Zealand. Hauling rocks in the vineyard, he says, helped him get ready for graduate school at the renowned University of California at Davis oenology program. In 2004, he moved to Napa where he’s been ever since.

Jim is now the winemaker at Seavey Vineyard in California's Napa Valley. Prior to that, he worked at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and Robert Mondavi Winery.

In 2014, he launched a podcast called Inside Winemaking, which is ranked one of the most popular wine podcasts. In 2021, he launched Terratorium Wines as a direct result of his podcast and winemaking classes. Jim and his wife Erin have two daughters that keep them busy. Recently, he notes, they logged four pulled-teeth in a 36-hour period.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/190.

189: Cracking the DaVino Code with Wine Economist, Mike Veseth Jul 13, 2022

Did you know there’s a triple crisis in the battle for the soul of wine right now? Why do you need to master the DaVino Code? What makes some of the claims on “better for you” wines misleading?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and editor of The Wine Economist newsletter, Mike Veseth.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What happened during “wine’s lost decade”?

Which main factors have contributed to the declining global wine market?

What might surprise you about the brand behind White Claw Hard Seltzer?

Which environmental and social factors have led to a triple crisis in the wine industry?

How did Mike imagine the wine wars playing out in Wine Wars II?

What’s the story behind Bellissima by Christie Brinkley?

What makes some of the claims on “better for you” wines misleading?

Which lessons can wine producers learn from the deconstruction of the soul of milk?

What’s the tasting experience like for Bellissima wines?

Why should you consider trying Creekside Cabernet Merlot?

What is the DaVino code?

How does the DaVino code keep out potential new wine buyers?

What do you need to know about the battle between Martians and Wagnerians?

Which wine would Mike love to be able to share with Mark Twain?

Why is Mike a big advocate for drinking locally?

Which wine would Mike want to be served at his funeral and why?

Key Takeaways

Mike illuminates the triple crisis in the battle for the soul of wine right now with great examples.

I love his concept of the DaVino Code for better understanding wine.

He makes a great point about why some of the claims on “better for you” wines are so misleading.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mike Veseth

Mike Veseth is editor of The Wine Economist newsletter (WineEconomist.com) and author of more than a dozen books including Wine Wars (2011), Around the World in Eighty Wines (2018) and Wine Wars II: The Global Battle for the Soul of Wine (2022). He is a sought-after speaker at wine industry meetings both in the United States and around the world.

Veseth’s writings on wine and globalization have been widely praised. Globaloney was selected as a Best Business Book of 2005. Wine Wars was chosen a Best Wine Book of 2011. The Wine Economist was named Best Wine Blog by Gourmand International in 2015. Money, Taste, and Wine: It’s Complicated received the 2016 Gourmand International award for Best Wine Writing. Around the World in Eighty Wines was named one of the 100 best wine books of all time by BookAuthority.org.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/189.

188: The 3 Biggest Forces Changing Your Wine Now with Mike Veseth, author of Wine Wars II: The Global Battle for the Soul of Wine Jul 06, 2022

Which three forces have shaped the evolution of the modern wine market more than any others? What is a wine economist? How have the wine industry and wine buyers evolved in the past 10 years? How does that impact the wines you drink?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and editor of The Wine Economist newsletter, Mike Veseth.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What is a wine economist?

How did a budget vacation start Mike on the path of becoming a wine economist?

How do the three main forces outlined in Wine Wars shape global wine?

How does the natural wine movement act as a push-back force in the industry?

What is a terroirist?

What fascinating new stories will you read about in Wine Wars II?

Which wine buyer insights were uncovered through Project Genome and how did it impact the industry?

Why is it a bad idea to paint all celebrity wine with a broad brush?

Which wine brands have leaned heavily into their image and seen huge success?

What did Mike learn about silk road terroirists in writing Wine Wars II?

Why are there so many terroirists in the Republic of Georgia?

Who is Chinese wine for?

How has Chinese wine evolved and what impact did the pandemic have on domestic consumption?

Key Takeaways

I found it interesting how globalization at one end of the spectrum and terrorists at the other end are having a profound impact on the style and type of wine we drink now.

Mike gives us great insights into what a wine economist does.

The wine industry and buyers changed so much in the past 10 years.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mike Veseth

Mike Veseth is editor of The Wine Economist newsletter (WineEconomist.com) and author of more than a dozen books including Wine Wars (2011), Around the World in Eighty Wines (2018) and Wine Wars II: The Global Battle for the Soul of Wine (2022). He is a sought-after speaker at wine industry meetings both in the United States and around the world.

Veseth’s writings on wine and globalization have been widely praised. Globaloney was selected as a Best Business Book of 2005. Wine Wars was chosen a Best Wine Book of 2011. The Wine Economist was named Best Wine Blog by Gourmand International in 2015. Money, Taste, and Wine: It’s Complicated received the 2016 Gourmand International award for Best Wine Writing. Around the World in Eighty Wines was named one of the 100 best wine books of all time by BookAuthority.org.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/188.

187: Oregon's Undiscovered White Wines & How Soil Changes Wine Taste with Eugenia Keegan Jun 29, 2022

How has Oregon white wine evolved since it was first produced? Which elements make up the “classic Oregon” style of wine? How do different types of soil express themselves in wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with entrepreneur and winemaker, Eugenia Keegan.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How has Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve driven the growth of Jackson Family Wines?

What’s the story behind Oregon’s white wine evolution?

What makes WillaKenzie Estate like a little piece of Burgundy?

Which elements make up the “classic Oregon” style?

How do the two main types of soil at WillaKenzie Estate express themselves in the wine?

What’s the tasting experience like for WillaKenzie Estate 2019 Pinot Noir?

How does it compare to the Penner-Ash 2019 Pinot Noir?

What does it mean for a wine to be full-bodied based on structure?

Why do winemakers have to be careful not to over-manipulate?

What’s the ideal setting for drinking wine?

How can you find the right balance of wine when it comes to your health?

What’s Eugenia’s relaxed perspective on wine and food pairing?

Which wine books are Eugenia’s favourites?

Which historical figures would Eugenia have loved to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

We hear so much about Oregon pinot noir, so I was fascinated with how Oregon white wine has evolved since it was first produced.

Eugenia offers a great explanation of which elements make up the “classic Oregon” style of wine.

I also enjoyed learning how different types of soil express themselves in wine.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Eugenia Keegan

A fifth-generation Sonoma County native, Eugenia Keegan is recognized for her excellence in the wine industry as both a winemaker and a business executive. Today, she serves as General Manager and Vice President of Oregon Winery Operations and Business Development for Jackson Family Wines (JFW), leading a portfolio of prestigious Pinot Noir houses such as Penner-Ash, WillaKenzie, and Gran Moraine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/187.

186: Oregon Wines, History and Future with Eugenia Keegan of Jackson Family Wines Jun 22, 2022

Are you curious about what makes Oregon unique from other wine regions? How could climate change impact winemaking? What can we learn from the youngest generation in the wine industry?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Eugenia Keegan, a winemaker and pioneering legend in the wine industry.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What was Eugenia’s most memorable moment growing up on a farm?

Why does Eugenia prefer to start her mornings in the vineyard?

Which wine would Eugenia pair with some of her favourite childhood foods?

Why did Eugenia leave her career in the film industry?

Where did Eugenia’s interest in wine come from?

Why does Eugenia say we’ve been farming wrong for the last 100 years?

What has been the best moment of Eugenia’s wine career so far?

What worries Eugenia most as a winemaker?

Which aspect of her career does Eugenia love most?

What can we learn from the youngest generation in the wine industry?

Key Takeaways

She really illustrates how Oregon is unique from other wine regions in its climate, geography, history and wine focus.

Eugenia gets at the heart of how climate change may impact winemaking and wine styles.

I love her take on what we can learn from younger generations in the wine industry.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Eugenia Keegan

A fifth-generation Sonoma County native, Eugenia is recognized for her excellence in the wine industry as both a winemaker and a business executive. Today, she serves as General Manager and Vice President of Oregon Winery Operations and Business Development for Jackson Family Wines (JFW), leading a portfolio of prestigious Pinot Noir houses such as Penner-Ash, WillaKenzie, and Gran Moraine.

Her path to Oregon may not have been conventional, but it’s certainly been remarkable. Along the way, Eugenia built a reputation for her keen business sense, advocacy, and dedication to mentorship and community.

Eugenia Keegan joined Jackson Family Wines (JFW) in 2013 to head up the company’s fast-growing Oregon portfolio. As General Manager, Keegan oversees JFW’s holdings in the Willamette Valley: Gran Moraine, Zena Crown, Penner-Ash Wine Cellars and Willakenzie Estate wineries. She also supervises Willamette Valley winemaking for Sonoma-based Siduri and La Crema. Actively civic-minded, Keegan is the chair emerita of the board of directors of the Oregon Wine Board, and serves on the boards of the Oregon Winegrowers Association and the Willamette Valley Wineries Association, the Chemeketa Wine Advisory Committee, and the Linfield Wine Education Advisory Council.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/186.

The Shape and Sound of Taste with Nell McShane Wulfhart Jun 16, 2022

How does telling your dinner party guests a few details about the wine you're serving dramatically change their perception of its taste? How does the shape of a restaurant table impact how much you eat, and which types of songs can make your Pinot Noir or other wines tastes more acidic?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with journalist Nell McShane Wulfhart.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What’s the difference between taste and flavour?

How do supertasters experience taste and flavour differently from others?

What impact does our knowledge of a specific wine have on the tasting experience?

What simple strategy can we use to improve our dinner party guests’ experience? How do extrasensory cues impact flavour and enjoyment?

Why does Nell recommend adding a squeeze of limes or lemons to food or water?

Why do ice cream companies add certain scents inside their packaging?

What effect does loud music or noise have on your sense of taste?

Should you serve your best wine first or last at a dinner party?

Why should you consider serving two wines at the same time?

How can you help guests to feel more comfortable at a gathering?

How can you use lighting throughout a party to influence guests’ experiences?

What fun activity can you try with wine tasting and different types of music?

Why does music have a bigger impact on complex beverages like coffee and wine?

How can you use your music playlist to complement your menu?

Why do our palate and preferences change when we’re on a plane?

Can we hear the difference between various types of beverages just from the sound of the pour?

Why are white wine glasses better than flutes for drinking bubbly?

How does the shape of the table in a restaurant affect our dining experience?

What should you consider when selecting a glass for a particular beverage?

How do the shape and texture of food affect how satisfied you feel?

What’s the relationship between weight and perception of quality?

Which wine bottle characteristics make the most impact on wine buyers?

How do health claims on food and wine packaging influence our perception?

How is scent marketing being used outside of the food and beverage industry?

About Nell McShane Wulfhart

Nell McShane Wulfhart is a journalist from Philadelphia, currently based in Uruguay. She's a former New York Times columnist and frequent contributor. Nell also writes for Travel + Leisure, Bon Appétit, Condé Nast Traveler, The Wall Street Journal, and T Magazine, to name just a few of many.

To learn more, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/blog/podcast/the-shape-and-sound-of-taste-with-nell-mcshane-wulfhart/.

185: Inventive Food & Wine Pairing and Buying Tips with Guy Bower of The Good Life Show Jun 15, 2022

What exactly makes the sense of smell so evocative? How can you play with food and wine pairing to discover new flavours? What can you do to de-risk your exploration of new wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Guy Bower, host of The Good Life podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

When did I discover my appreciation for wine?

What makes the senses of smell and taste so evocative?

Why do I love feeling like an enthusiastic amateur when it comes to wine?

How has the wine world changed and why am I an unwavering advocate of making it feel more accessible?

If I could only have one wine, what would it be?

Which shabby-chic food and wine pairing should you try next?

Which weird wine pairing surprised me with how good it is?

How can you play with food and wine pairing?

What can you do to de-risk your exploration of new wines?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wed at 7 pm ET on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Guy Bower & The Good Life

The Good Life podcast is hosted by Guy Bower. Guy is a retired Air Force fighter pilot and recently retired Airbus A300 Captain for FedEx. Throughout his career in the military, which involved many years living and travelling in Europe, he has been a dedicated food and wine enthusiast and home chef. Associated with the radio program, Guy regularly attends major national wine events, seminars and tastings as an enthusiast, participant and judge. He has authored many articles on the enjoyment of Food, Wine and the “Good Life” – and is called on often to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with wine appreciation classes, wait-staff training, and educational tastings and seminars. Guy is a Level-1 Sommelier and teaches several wine appreciation classes at Wichita State University each semester.

The Good Life radio program began in Miami in 1988, on WKAT 1360AM. In 1990, a military move to Kansas brought The Good Life to the Midwest. The program has been on KNSS 1330/98.7 – Saturdays, since the fall of 1991. The Good Life allows Guy to share his enjoyment of food, wine and travel from the “everyman” perspective. The emphasis is on wine and food enjoyment without snobbery.

The program consists of live interviews with chefs, cookbook authors, winemakers and anyone involved with food, wine and the Good Life. In 1992, Guy was instrumental in starting the Wichita Chapter of the American Institute of Wine and Food. He was the Chairman of the Chapter for the first 3 years and has served three other non-consecutive terms as chair. He was actively involved in starting the Midwest Winefest and the Midwest Beerfest here in Wichita.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/185.

184: Prosecco's Success Story (and Snob Disdain) with Stevie Kim of Vinitaly Jun 08, 2022

How did Prosecco lead the way for many people discovering Italian wines, and then why did it get so much hate? How can "Mamma Jumbo Shrimp" help you as a wine lover? Is food or wine the main protagonist of most meals?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with the founder of Vinitaly and host of the Italian Wine Podcast, Stevie Kim.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What’s the best way for you to find Italian wines you might love?

Why does Prosecco get so much hate from wine snobs?

What are the different types of Prosecco available now?

Why are Etna DOC wines so popular right now?

Where did the “Jumbo Shrimp” name come from?

How does Stevie’s brand “Mamma Jumbo Shrimp” help wine lovers?

What is Stevie’s controversial perspective on food and wine pairing?

How would Stevie pair her favourite childhood food with wine?

What’s Stevie’s top tip for wine lovers?

Key Takeaways

The story of Prosecco’s success in helping many people discover Italian wines, and then its plunge into ridicule by snobs has so many parallels in the wine world (think Chardonnay and Merlot) and beyond (think of certain movie stars and singers). Fortunately, there’s incredible value in this sparkling wine and it will persist, or you could say my love for it will go on and on.

I love the concept of "Mamma Jumbo Shrimp" to help wine lovers understand Italian wines.

Despite Stevie making a strong case for food being the main protagonist of the meal, I remain a wine-first kinda gal just like I buy the earrings, then the outfit.

About Stevie Kim

Stevie Kim was born in Korea and raised in the United States. Today, she lives in Verona, Italy. She attended the New York University – Leonard N. Stern School of Business. After settling in Italy, she obtained an MBA at Bocconi University, School of Economics and Management. Later, she achieved a postgraduate specialization in Wealth Management at the University of Pennsylvania – The Wharton School. Stevie is currently studying for her WSET Diploma, from the Weinakademie Österreich in Rust, Austria.

As Managing Director of Vinitaly International, Stevie Kim has launched and now coordinates a series of new initiatives connected to the Vinitaly brand. As a Professional Wine Groupie, Stevie is always seeking innovative ways to communicate Italian wine – with a strong creative emphasis on social media and educational platforms. In 2017, Stevie produced the Italian Wine Podcast, the first podcast in English dedicated exclusively to Italian wine and its personalities. She also carries out various editorial projects, one of the latest being The Jumbo Shrimp Guide to Italian Wine and The Jumbo Shrimp Guide to International Grape Varieties in Italy. The books are reference guides, designed to simplify the complex world of Italian wine. Last year, Stevie started her On The Road Edition travels to wineries and regions across Italy, airing every week on the Mamma Jumbo Shrimp YouTube channel.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/184.

183: Italian Wines and Wine Competitions with Vinitaly's Stevie Kim Jun 01, 2022

How can you learn more about the diverse regions and styles of Italian wine? What's the difference in impact between wine competitions and critic scores? And how do they influence the wines you buy and drink?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with the founder of Vinitaly and host of the Italian Wine Podcast, Stevie Kim.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How did Stevie end up living in Verona, Italy?

Which rosé wine piqued Stevie’s interest in diving into Italian wines?

What was the inspiration for creating Vinitaly?

How did Stevie adapt her business during the pandemic?

What is Vinitaly?

Who is Vinitaly geared towards and what kind of experience should you expect?

What is OperaWine?

How do wine competitions compare to wine scoring by critics?

What makes the OperaWine rating process so selective?

How does the individualistic nature of Italians show up in Italian wine?

Why are Italian wines sometimes confusing for consumers to navigate?

Key Takeaways

I was fascinated with her points on the differences in impact between wine competitions and critic scores.

The range and diversity of Italian regions and wine styles can seem overwhelming. I love Stevie’s approach to making them accessible and memorable.

I’ve added several more obscure Italian wines to my list to try next.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Stevie Kim

As Managing Director of Vinitaly International, Stevie Kim has launched and now coordinates a series of new initiatives connected to the Vinitaly brand. As a Professional Wine Groupie, Stevie is always seeking innovative ways to communicate Italian wine – with a strong creative emphasis on social media and educational platforms. In 2017, Stevie produced the Italian Wine Podcast, the first podcast in English dedicated exclusively to Italian wine and its personalities. Now in its fourth year of regular broadcasts, the show published its 770th episode on January 31, 2022. She also carries out various editorial projects, one of the latest being The Jumbo Shrimp Guide to Italian Wine and The Jumbo Shrimp Guide to International Grape Varieties in Italy. The books are reference guides, designed to simplify the complex world of Italian wine. Last year, Stevie started her On The Road Edition travels to wineries and regions across Italy, airing every week on the Mamma Jumbo Shrimp YouTube channel.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/183.

182: Cabernet Franc, California's Paso Robles & High Acidity Wines with Lori Budd May 25, 2022

Are you curious about why Cabernet Franc should have just as much respect from you as a wine lover, if not more than Cabernet Sauvignon? What makes wines from California's Paso Robles region unique? Why is it easy to fall in love with wines that have high acidity?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with winemaker, writer and podcast host, Lori Budd.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What does it mean to be an alternating proprietorship winery versus a crush pad?

What was the inspiration behind the name Dracaena?

Why did Lori and her husband choose Paso Robles for their winery?

What is the geography of Paso Robles like?

Which pleasant surprises did Lori find after starting the winery?

Which unexpected difficulties came up when Lori and Michael started Dracaena?

Why are Lori and Michael so passionate about Cabernet Franc and why did Lori start Cab Franc Day?

How is Cab Franc Day celebrated around the world?

What taste differences will you notice between a cool climate and a warm climate Cabernet Franc?

Why did Lori and Michael choose Chenin Blanc as one of Dracaena’s flagship wines?

Why is it easy to fall in love with high-acid wines?

Which wines would Lori pair with her favourite childhood dish, ravioli?

What are the most difficult food and wine pairings Lori has encountered?

What’s Lori’s favourite wine gadget?

Key Takeaways

I’m so glad Lori highlighted Cabernet Franc as it’s such an under-valued, but terrific wine. We all need to show it a little more respect.

I’m looking forward to visiting California's Paso Robles region after listening to Lori describe the wines, the land and the people.

I’ve always considered myself an acid head when it comes to wine: acidity gives wine its vibrancy and life. It also makes it so much more food friendly.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Lori Budd

Lori Budd began her career as a microbiologist, but her need for excitement led her into Adventure Education, teaching students how to rock climb, zip line and tie those all important survival knots. Along the way, she fell in love with wine and graduated from the prestigious UC Davis enology program, along with certifications from a number of other wine programs. She and her husband, Michael, own Dracaena Wines in Paso Robles. She’s consumed by the stories that unfold as each glass is poured, and shares those in her award-winning blog and podcast called Exploring the Glass.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/182.

181: Bordeaux Wines, Politics and Wine, Monastrell & Spanish Food Pairings with Lori Budd of Exploring the Glass May 18, 2022

What is it like to participate in the coveted en premiere tasting of the new vintage of Bordeaux wines in France while they’re still in the barrels aging? Which Spanish foods should you pair with the fabulous red wine Monastrell? How does politics influence wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with winemaker, writer and podcast host, Lori Budd who graduated from the prestigious UC Davis enology program. She and her husband own Dracaena Wines in Paso Robles. She’s also the host of the podcast called Exploring the Glass.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Who are the Rothschilds and what is their association with banking and wine?

What was it like to attend the Rothschild family’s ballet competition as their guest?

What was Lori’s experience as a participant in an en premiere tasting in Bordeaux?

How does the tasting experience differ for wines that are ready to drink versus still in the barrel?

How is Portugal’s turbulent history reflected in its wine?

What type of wine did Lori taste from the ungrafted vines of the Jumilla region in Spain?

How are Jumilla winemakers adapting their styles to meet the changing taste of Monastrell consumers?

Which Spanish foods should you try alongside Monastrell?

What does Lori love about Spain and Spanish wines?

What was Lori’s early career like, first as a microbiologist and then as an adventure educator?

How did Lori first fall in love with wine?

What was the journey like from wine lover to winemaker?

Key Takeaways

I loved Lori’s story about attending the en premiere tasting of the new vintage in Bordeaux while it’s still in the barrels aging. It sounds exciting, terrifying and eye-opening.

Lori had some terrific Spanish dishes to pair with the luscious Spanish red wine, Monastrell.

I found Lori’s insights on how politics has influenced wine fascinating.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Lori Budd

Lori Budd began her career as a microbiologist, but her need for excitement led her into Adventure Education, teaching students how to rock climb, zip line and tie those all important survival knots. Along the way, she fell in love with wine and graduated from the prestigious UC Davis enology program, along with certifications from a number of other wine programs. She and her husband, Michael, own Dracaena Wines in Paso Robles. She’s consumed by the stories that unfold as each glass is poured, and shares those in her award-winning blog and podcast called Exploring the Glass.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/181.

180: Extreme Winemaking, Ontario Wine Gems, Canada's Regions & Grapes May 11, 2022

Why is icewine considered extreme winemaking, and what are some weird, but wonderful food pairings for this elixir? Which Canadian wine regions should you visit next? What unusual things can you do at Ontario wineries?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Janina Doyle, sommelier and host of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What are the major wine regions in Canada?

How does Ontario’s weather impact the types of wine that are produced?

What are the most important characteristics of Canadian Icewine?

Which types of food pair best with Icewine?

How does the late harvest time for Icewine present additional difficulties for winemakers?

What are some of the main attractions of the Ontario wine regions and sub-regions?

How do the Niagara River and Lake Ontario affect the climate in the sub-region around them?

Which innovative and environmentally-friendly methods are the winemakers at Featherstone Estate Winery using to protect their vines?

What are the top grape varieties grown in Ontario?

Where do I think Canadian wine and wineries will go in the future?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Janina Doyle

Janina Doyle started her wine career in several top-notch restaurants in London, UK, rising from waitress to head sommelier as she completed her WSET diploma. She has spent the last six years creating Eat Sleep Wine Repeat where she offers wine tastings, events and services. She also created the Bromley Wine Society, a local monthly wine group, and her podcast, Eat Sleep Wine Repeat. She is also Brand Ambassador for Ventisquero Wine Estates in Chile.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/180.

179: Finding Bargain Wines and Regions with Janina Doyle of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat May 04, 2022

Why does Italy make such a fantastic wine destination to visit? Which underpriced wines for their quality should you try next? How can you successfully navigate the walls of bottles in a wine shop? Which simple technique can you use to improve your tasting skills and learn more about wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Janina Doyle, host of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How did a trip to Italy introduce me to the wonderful world of wine?

What does a typical day look like for me?

What’s it like to be live on TV on Canada’s biggest morning show, The Social and CTV News?

Where will you be taken and what will you learn in my first book, Red, White, And Drunk All Over?

Why do I believe that you are the reason I’ve been able to get great access when writing my books and in my other wine endeavours?

Which discovery did I make about finding incredible wine value in my second book, Unquenchable?

Which bargain wines should you try next?

Why does Italy make such a fantastic wine destination to visit?

What has been the most beautiful moment of my wine career so far?

What strategies can you use as a consumer to navigate the overwhelming walls of bottles in a wine shop?

Which simple technique can you use to improve your tasting skills and learn more about wine?

What’s our favourite type of wine glass?

How can you go beyond the basic red wine and cheese pairings?

Which perfect wine pairings can you try with these famous books?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Janina Doyle

Janina Doyle started her wine career in several top-notch restaurants in London, UK, rising from waitress to head sommelier as she completed her WSET diploma. She has spent the last six years creating Eat Sleep Wine Repeat where she offers wine tastings, events and services. She also created the Bromley Wine Society, a local monthly wine group, and her podcast, Eat Sleep Wine Repeat. She is also Brand Ambassador for Ventisquero Wine Estates in Chile.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/179.

178: Pandemic's Positive Impact on Wine + Buying Wine Online with Cathy Huyghe and Andrea Smalling Apr 27, 2022

How has the pandemic positively impacted the wine industry? Why is the percentage of women buying online rising faster than men? How do consumers benefit when wine producers have access to more and better data?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Cathy Huyghe and Andrea Smalling, authors of the WineDirect x Enolytics 2021 Direct-To-Consumer Impact Report: What Wineries Need to Do Now.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Which interesting trends have been identified when it comes to Gen Z drinking habits?

What can wine brands do to engage younger generations?

Which positive trends stood out in the DTC report?

How did the pandemic impact online DTC sales?

Has the lifting of lockdown restrictions negatively impacted online DTC sales?

Why should consumers be excited about the growth of the online side of the wine industry?

What are the implications of the DTC report for the Canadian wine scene?

How did Canadian wineries quickly adapt to the new environment of the pandemic?

What would be the benefits of opening the borders to shipping wine across provinces in Canada?

How does having more data and more granularity benefit everyone from wine consumers to producers?

Why are more women purchasing wine online than men?

What are Andrea & Cathy’s ideal settings for having a glass of wine?

Which controversial wine opinions do Cathy & Andrea have?

Which childhood foods would be fun to pair with wine today?

What was Andrea’s worst food and wine pairing?

Which great historical figures would Cathy & Andrea love to share a bottle of wine with?

What message would Andrea & Cathay share if they could put up their own billboard downtown in a big city?

Which wine would Cathy & Andrea want to be served at their funerals?

Key Takeaways

At least there were some upsides to the pandemic on the wine industry in terms of moving it forward with selling online and tightening direct connections between those who make wine and those who drink it.

I found it fascinating that the percentage of women buying online is rising faster than men. It makes sense though given women still buy most household items.

Getting granular on the data means getting more personal with consumers in terms of their experience in buying the wine whether that’s in person at the winery or online.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Andrea Smalling & Cathy Huyghe

Andrea Smalling & Cathy Huyghe have recently co-authored a ground-breaking report on the wine industry that will be of interest to those who make, sell and buy wine, from wineries to consumers.

Andrea Smalling is Chief Marketing Officer and Head of E-Commerce Sales of WineDirect, a U.S.-based company that helps wineries sell directly to consumers.

Cathy Huyghe is an award-winning journalist with a regular column in Forbes and co-founder and CEO of Enolytics, a data-driven business intelligence company for the $970 billion wine and spirits industry.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/178.

177: Ground-Breaking Report for Making, Buying & Selling Wine with Cathy Huyghe & Andrea Smalling Apr 20, 2022

How have major events like the pandemic and the wildfires affected the way we buy wine online? Do younger generations, such as Gen Y, Gen Z and Millenials, have different criteria for buying wine? What impact does storytelling have on wine sales?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Cathy Huyghe and Andrea Smalling, authors of the WineDirect x Enolytics 2021 Direct-To-Consumer Impact Report: What Wineries Need to Do Now.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What did Andrea’s previous career with Proctor & Gamble involve?

Why did Andrea decide to move into a career in the wine industry?

What was the realization Andrea had about wine being an agricultural business?

How did Cathy fall in love with wine and wine writing?

Why does Cathy consider herself primarily an issues writer?

What’s the mission behind A Balanced Glass?

Which key advice does Cathy wish she could tell her younger self, early on in her wine career?

What do we mean by DTC (Direct-To-Consumer) wine sales?

How does WineDirect serve wineries?

Why was the WineDirect x Enolytics 2021 Direct-To-Consumer Impact Report created?

What was the founding mission of Enolytics?

What type of data was analyzed for the DTC Impact Report?

How did the report track the impact of the California wildfires on the wine industry?

What did the DTC Impact Report show about the impact of those wildfires?

Why is the story behind the wine important to younger drinkers?

Did the report reveal any insights about wine and gender?

Key Takeaways

I found it fascinating to learn how the pandemic, the wildfires and other major events have changed the way we buy wine online.

It’s interesting that younger generations, such as Gen Y, Gen Z and Millenials, really want that in-person experience when buying wine. I would have assumed they’d be all about online only.

We’re back to storytelling, whether it’s wine or books, it has a profound impact on sales and connection.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Andrea Smalling & Cathy Huyghe

Andrea Smalling & Cathy Huyghe have recently co-authored a ground-breaking report on the wine industry that will be of interest to those who make, sell and buy wine, from wineries to consumers.

Andrea Smalling is Chief Marketing Officer and Head of E-Commerce Sales of WineDirect, a U.S.-based company that helps wineries sell directly to consumers.

Cathy Huyghe is an award-winning journalist with a regular column in Forbes and co-founder and CEO of Enolytics, a data-driven business intelligence company for the $970 billion wine and spirits industry.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/177.

176: Australian Wine Pairings, Tips and Trends with James Atkinson of Drinks Adventures Apr 13, 2022

Are you curious about the Australian wine scene and the latest trends and changes? How about tips on buying terrific Australian wines? What are some iconic Australian food and wine pairings you should try?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with James Atkinson, drinks journalist and host of the Drinks Adventures podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

Are there any parallel trends in the beer and wine industries?

Is natural wine gaining popularity in Australia?

What is James’ controversial take on natural wine?

What changes and trends have emerged recently in the Australian wine scene?

How has Australian Chardonnay evolved and improved over the years?

Which wine regions should you try for Australian cool-climate Chardonnay?

What are some iconic Australian food and wine pairings?

What are the biggest challenges facing the Australian wine industry?

Which must-see site should you visit on a trip to Champagne?

What did James love about his trip to Alsace?

Which foods should you try on a visit to Alsace?

Which wines does James like to pair with pizza?

What barbecue and wine pairing surprised James?

What’s James’ favourite wine book?

Why is winesave James’ favourite wine gadget?

Which vintage wine would James want to be served at his funeral?

Which common red wine mistake can we easily avoid?

Key Takeaways

His descriptions of Australian wines made me not only want to revisit the wine styles but also go back to Australia itself. It’s such a magical place.

James makes some important points about cool-climate Australian wines and how elegant and balanced they are, to the point where they can easily be confused with Burgundian wines, especially when it comes to Chardonnay.

I loved his iconic Australian food and wine pairing suggestions and can’t wait to try them.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About James Atkinson

James Atkinson is the creator of the Drinks Adventures podcast and winner of Best Podcast at the Australian Wine Communicator Awards 2021. A lover of all fine drinks, James was previously editor of Australian Brews News and drinks industry publication TheShout. A Certified Cicerone® (beer sommelier) and two-time winner of the Australian International Beer Awards prize for Best Media, James has judged at several prestigious beer competitions. As a journalist, he has contributed to publications including The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, Halliday, Gourmet Traveller Wine, Good Food, Selector and more.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/176.

175: Wine Sommeliers v Beer Cicerones and Tasting Techniques with Drinks Adventures' James Atkinson Apr 06, 2022

What's the difference between a wine sommelier and a beer sommelier or cicerone? Which glass is best for properly appreciating great beer? What can you expect from Arizona as an up-and-coming wine region?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with James Atkinson, drinks journalist and host of the Drinks Adventures podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How did James land the opportunity to host wine royalty, Jancis Robinson, at his house?

What aspects of James’ interview with Jancis Robinson stood out the most?

How did James create an opportunity to interview a childhood idol on his podcast?

How has rockstar winemaker Maynard James Keenan been influenced by Australian wine?

What can you expect from Arizona as an up-and-coming wine region?

When did James know he wanted to be a professional drinks writer?

What were the most difficult aspects of James’ pre-drinks writing career?

Which aspect of James’ early career would he change if he had the chance?

What are the differences between a wine sommelier and a beer sommelier (cicerone)?

How long can you keep beer before it goes bad?

What’s the process like to become a Certified Cicerone?

Which type of glass is best to properly appreciate the nuances of your beer?

What’s James’ favourite beer and food pairing?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed learning about the difference between a wine sommelier and a beer sommelier or cicerone.

Even though I’m not a beer drinker, it’s good to know which glass is best for appreciating great beer. That tip will be handy for my partner Miles who loves local, craft beer.

Arizona is an interesting up-and-coming wine region. I would not have thought viticulture would be possible in such a warm region. I look forward to trying the wines someday.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB26262

About James Atkinson

James Atkinson is the creator of the Drinks Adventures podcast and winner of Best Podcast at the Australian Wine Communicator Awards 2021. A lover of all fine drinks, James was previously editor of Australian Brews News and drinks industry publication TheShout. A Certified Cicerone® (beer sommelier) and two-time winner of the Australian International Beer Awards prize for Best Media, James has judged at several prestigious beer competitions. As a journalist, he has contributed to publications including The Age, Sydney Morning Herald, Halliday, Gourmet Traveller Wine, Good Food, Selector and more.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/175.

174: Retronasal Smell in Tasting Wine and Virtual Brands with Jim Duane of Inside Winemaking Podcast Mar 30, 2022

How can tuning into the retronasal aspect of smell take your wine tasting skill to the next level? What makes the sense of smell so fascinating? What does it mean to be a virtual wine brand? What do grapes & M&Ms have in common?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jim Duane, winemaker and host of the Inside Winemaking Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

If you live in the United States you can get 10% of Jim’s Terratorium wines using the code NATALIE.

Highlights

What’s the story behind Seavey Vineyard having both grapes and livestock?

Which unusual cow-specific winemaking tip does Jim follow every harvest?

How did 15 tons of crushed Pinot Noir grapes go missing and end up in a parking lot?

What’s it like to work a harvest without power?

How did Jim go from totally avoiding Rosé to making three vintages by 2021?

What makes Riesling the hardest wine to ferment?

What led to the aha moment in high school when Jim first became intrigued by fermentation?

How are off-dry, dry and sweet wines classified depending on their sugar levels?

Why does Jim consider himself a gardener at heart?

What’s unique about working with Seavey Vineyard?

Why was Jim terrified about going into a career as a winemaker?

What was Jim’s inspiration for creating his podcast, Inside Winemaking?

How was working at Stags’ Leap winery was like a university of practical winemaking for Jim?

Why is mastering logistics a critical part of becoming a successful winemaker?

What were Jim’s biggest takeaways from working at Robert Mondavi Winery?

Why was Jim excited to have access to the To Kalon vineyard?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed hearing about what winemaker wannabes and everyday wine drinkers can learn from Jim’s podcast. Even if you don’t want to become a winemaker, understanding the process can deepen your appreciation of what you’re drinking.

The retronasal sense of smell is a game-changer when it comes to detecting specific aromas in wine. It’s a subset, of course, within the fascinating world of smell that we’ll continue to explore on this podcast in future episodes.

Jim’s comparison of grapes with M&Ms was helpful in understanding texture and ripeness.

I also was interested in Jim’s explanation of virtual wine brands.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jim Duane

Jim Duane studied biology at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington then worked at Brancott Vineyards in New Zealand. Hauling rocks in the vineyard, he says, helped him get ready for graduate school at the renowned University of California at Davis oenology program. In 2004, he moved to Napa where he’s been ever since.

Jim is now the winemaker at Seavey Vineyard in California's Napa Valley. Prior to that, he worked at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and Robert Mondavi Winery.

In 2014, he launched a podcast called Inside Winemaking, which is ranked one of the most popular wine podcasts. In 2021, he launched Terratorium Wines as a direct result of his podcast and winemaking classes. Jim and his wife Erin have two daughters that keep them busy. Recently, he notes, they logged four pulled-teeth in a 36-hour period.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/174.

173: What Being a Winemaker is Really Like with Inside Winemaking's Jim Duane Mar 23, 2022

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a winemaker and wondered what it takes? What’s it like to work a wine harvest without power? What makes Riesling the most difficult grape to ferment?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jim Duane, winemaker and host of the Inside Winemaking Podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Giveaway

If you live in the United States you can get 10% of Jim’s Terratorium wines using the code NATALIE.

Highlights

What’s the story behind Seavey Vineyard having both grapes and livestock?

Which unusual cow-specific winemaking tip does Jim follow every harvest?

How did 15 tons of crushed Pinot Noir grapes go missing and end up in a parking lot?

What’s it like to work a harvest without power?

How did Jim go from totally avoiding Rosé to making three vintages by 2021?

What makes Riesling the hardest wine to ferment?

What led to the aha moment in high school when Jim first became intrigued by fermentation?

How are off-dry, dry and sweet wines classified depending on their sugar levels?

Why does Jim consider himself a gardener at heart?

What’s unique about working with Seavey Vineyard?

Why was Jim terrified about going into a career as a winemaker?

What was Jim’s inspiration for creating his podcast, Inside Winemaking?

How was working at Stags’ Leap winery was like a university of practical winemaking for Jim?

Why is mastering logistics a critical part of becoming a successful winemaker?

What were Jim’s biggest takeaways from working at Robert Mondavi Winery?

Why was Jim excited to have access to the To Kalon vineyard?

Key Takeaways

Jim gives us a taste for what it’s like being a winemaker, but his podcast and courses will help you take a deep dive if you’re so inclined.

His story about working a harvest without power was incredible. Pure grit and determination. And I guess that’s how they did it in the old days every year. Hard to imagine.

I’m fascinated with all aspects of Riesling as it’s so diverse in style and food pairings, but Jim really opened my eyes to how difficult it is to make.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jim Duane

Jim Duane studied biology at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington then worked at Brancott Vineyards in New Zealand. Hauling rocks in the vineyard, he says, helped him get ready for graduate school at the renowned University of California at Davis oenology program. In 2004, he moved to Napa where he’s been ever since.

Jim is now the winemaker at Seavey Vineyard in California's Napa Valley. Prior to that, he worked at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and Robert Mondavi Winery.

In 2014, he launched a podcast called Inside Winemaking, which is ranked one of the most popular wine podcasts. In 2021, he launched Terratorium Wines as a direct result of his podcast and winemaking classes. Jim and his wife Erin have two daughters that keep them busy. Recently, he notes, they logged four pulled-teeth in a 36-hour period.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/173.

172: Wine Supertasters, Food Pairings and Canadian Palates with XChateau's Robert Vernick & Peter Yeung Mar 16, 2022

What does it mean to be a supertaster? How did wine consumption habits change during the pandemic? Do Canadians have different wine preferences compared to drinkers in other regions? Why is food and wine pairing such a great way to get into the world of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung, co-hosts of the XChateau podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How did I get started in my wine career?

What motivated me to go from wine enthusiast to wine writer?

What does it mean to be a supertaster?

How do I manage my time between all my wine endeavours from books, to TV appearances, to the podcast?

Would wine experts benefit from my wine and food pairing course?

Why are "day in the life" stories often a better way to learn?

What features do wine lovers around the world enjoy with my mobile wine apps?

Are American wines well received in Canada?

How did wine consumption habits change during the pandemic?

Is there a distinguishable Canadian palate when it comes to wine?

Which Canadian wines should you try next, outside of the icewine category?

Why is food and wine pairing such a great way for beginners to ease into the world of wine?

What's unique about Tim Hanni's perspective on food and wine?

How has my business and my focus within it changed over the years?

Why are wine scores helpful despite lacking nuance?

What value is shared with subscribers through my newsletter?

Why is visiting vineyards one of my favourite ways to learn about wine?

What's the best way to learn more about Canadian wines?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung

Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung co-host the XChateau podcast that features insights, analysis, and perspectives on news and trends in the wine industry beyond winemaking, such as marketing, finance, and consumer trends.

Robert is a noted wine blogger who holds the WSET Diploma. Peter is a wine business consultant and the award-winning author of Luxury Wine Marketing published by Infinite Ideas in Oxford, U.K. He was named one of Wine Business Monthly's 2020 Wine Industry Leaders.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/172.

171: Chilean Wine in the Driest Place on Earth & England's Storied Wine History with Janina Doyle Mar 09, 2022

Are you curious about British wines and their history that dates back to King Henry VIII? How is wine made in the driest place on Earth and where is that exactly? Are stemless wine glasses better than traditional stemware?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Janina Doyle, sommelier and host of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

How are English wines connected to King Henry VIII and the Domesday Book?

Which wine makes a great pairing with classic English fish and chips?

What English wine brands should you look for on North American shelves?

How do you use Coravin wine preservation systems?

What does Janina love about Hush Heath Estate Balfour Luke's Pinot Noir?

What are suitcase clones and where do they show up in the wine world?

Which hallmarks should be present in a good quality Pinot Noir?

Can you pair Pinot Noir with fish or chicken?

What critical tip should you keep in mind when choosing a corkscrew?

How can you open your wine like a professional?

How did the Pais grape variety end up in Chile?

What’s the tasting profile of Ventisquero País Moscatel like?

Why shouldn’t you chill an oaked wine?

How is viticulture possible in the driest desert on Earth?

What features should you look for in a good wine glass?

Why does Janina prefer stemless wine glasses?

Which wine would Janina now pair with her favourite birthday cake from childhood?

Which person outside of the wine world would Janina most want to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

British wines have a fascinating history dating back to King Henry VIII. Now that was a man who enjoyed his food and drink.

It was interesting to hear how wine is made in the driest place on Earth in Chile. I look forward to trying some of those wines.

The debate about stemless wine glasses versus traditional stemware continues.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

Giveaway

You could win a 1-hour online masterclass with Janina Doyle. The class will be tailored to you, which wines you have access to, and what you want to learn about. You can have the class just for yourself, or gather a whole group together.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you heard about this giveaway on the podcast. I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Janina Doyle

Janina Doyle started her wine career in several top-notch restaurants in London, UK, rising from waitress to head sommelier as she completed her WSET diploma. She has spent the last six years creating Eat Sleep Wine Repeat where she offers wine tastings, events and services. She also created the Bromley Wine Society, a local monthly wine group, and her podcast, Eat Sleep Wine Repeat. She is also Brand Ambassador for Ventisquero Wine Estates in Chile.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/171.

170: English Sparkling Wine, Magical Blends & Harvest Secrets with Janina Doyle Mar 02, 2022

What’s it really like to work at a winery during the harvest? What is the magic behind blended wines versus single grape or varietal wines? How does English sparkling wine compare to Champagne?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Janina Doyle, sommelier and host of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks

Highlights

What’s it really like to work at a Chilean winery during the harvest?

Why does Janina find it so fascinating to participate in the winemaking process?

How did Janina nearly lose an eye while in a winery experimentation room?

What hidden danger lies in bottles of bubbly?

What’s it like to blend Malbec wines in Argentina?

What makes Bodega Catena Zapata a must-visit winery for every wine lover?

What made Janina’s trip with her father to Rioja, Spain one of her most memorable wine experiences?

Which experiences should you try when visiting Rioja?

Why did Janina’s first trade wine tasting end in disaster?

What’s the difference between English and British wine?

What do you need to know about English wine?

Which English wine does Janina recommend for you to try if you’re new to the category?

How does English sparkling wine compare to Champagne?

What sort of tasting profile would you experience with Bacchus grapes?

What is the “Nyetimber Effect”?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed Janina’s stories about what it’s really like to work at a winery during the harvest. As she mentioned, many people think winemaking is so glamorous and they have no idea how dirty it is and how many accidents happen and how hard it is. I call it fancied up farming.

She made some great points about blended wines, including the fact that Malbec, though it’s a single variety, is often a blended wine.

Janina shared some great insights into the differences and similarities between English sparkling wine and Champagne. I was surprised to hear that the English wine industry has grown by 70% in the last five years.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

Giveaway

You could win a 1-hour online masterclass with Janina Doyle. The class will be tailored to you, which wines you have access to, and what you want to learn about. You can have the class just for yourself, or gather a whole group together.

How to Win

To qualify, all you have to do is email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com and tell me that you heard about this giveaway on the podcast. I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Janina Doyle

Janina Doyle started her wine career in several top-notch restaurants in London, UK, rising from waitress to head sommelier as she completed her WSET diploma. She has spent the last six years creating Eat Sleep Wine Repeat where she offers wine tastings, events and services. She also created the Bromley Wine Society, a local monthly wine group, and her podcast, Eat Sleep Wine Repeat. She is also Brand Ambassador for Ventisquero Wine Estates in Chile.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/170.

169: Santa Maria BBQ & Wines + Can You Earn a Living as a Wine Writer? Feb 23, 2022

Why is Santa Maria BBQ different from other types and which wines pair well with it? What does it take to earn a living as a full-time wine writer? Why does grammar really matter? Why is passion not enough?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jaime Lewis, a fabulous food and wine writer, journalism professor and host of her own podcast, CONSUMED.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How can you become a full-time wine writer?

What does it look like to focus on your strengths?

Which unrealistically high standards are placed on wine writers?

Why does Jaime distinctly separate her writing from her journalism?

What are Jaime’s top tips for improving your writing?

What makes Santa Maria-style barbecue unique?

Why is Santa Maria-style barbecue important to California’s history?

How did the Santa Maria Club get its start?

Why has Pinot Noir become a popular accompaniment to Santa Maria barbecue?

Which wine would Jaime pair with her childhood favourite dish?

What’s Jaime’s favourite wine gadget?

Which quick trick can you use to aerate a bottle of wine?

What are Jaime’s favourite wine books?

Key Takeaways

I was fascinated with Jaime’s description of how Santa Maria BBQ is different from other types, from the various cuts of meat to preparation and cooking, as well as, of course, the wines that pair well with it.

She gives a realistic picture of what it takes to earn a living as a full-time wine writer. Gotta love that phrase, marry up.

I love that she’s a grammar nerd like me and my mother and her mother. For me, a dangling participle is as disturbing as pouring wine into a dirty glass. Just don’t do it.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jaime Lewis

Jaime writes, speaks and podcasts about the good life.

After an arts management career that included employment with Architecture New York Magazine, the San Francisco Symphony and the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Jaime chose to follow her nose (and palate) into the wine industry.

When not writing, Jaime podcasts at CONSUMED and teaches journalism at Cal Poly State University.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/169.

168: Wine's Buzz, Italy's Food Culture and Audrey Hepburn's Influence with Jaime Lewis Feb 16, 2022

Why does a lot of writing about wine ignore the alcoholic buzz? How did Audrey Hepburn kick start our guest’s relationship with wine? What effect can pregnancy have on your palate?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with journalist and podcaster, Jaime Lewis.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did visions of Audrey Hepburn kick start Jaime’s relationship with wine?

When did Jaime start writing about wine?

Why do wine connoisseurs often avoid talking about the buzz?

Why is Jaime transitioning away from wine writing?

What effect did pregnancy have on Jaime’s palate?

What was the inspiration for Jaime’s podcast, CONSUMED?

Which New Zealand wine left Jaime shocked and inspired?

What makes working in a New Zealand tasting room so different from one in the US?

Why is it so complicated to navigate the wine world as a woman?

Key Takeaways

I like Jaime’s reality take on why the buzz of alcohol in wine is often not mentioned in a lot of wine writing. I, too, wish there was more acknowledgement of wine’s full-bodied sensory experience.

I enjoyed her stories about Italian wine and food culture, with a nod to Audrey Hepburn.

I’m fascinated with the impact pregnancy has on your palate, along with other physical and mental changes from depression to other diseases. It’s all so connected.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Jaime Lewis

Jaime writes, speaks and podcasts about the good life.

After an arts management career that included employment with Architecture New York Magazine, the San Francisco Symphony and the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Jaime chose to follow her nose (and palate) into the wine industry.

When not writing, Jaime podcasts at CONSUMED and teaches journalism at Cal Poly State University.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/168.

167: Marketing Wine to Women + The Power of Storytelling Feb 09, 2022

How did my love of stories as a child bring me to the world of publishing and podcasting? What is the problem with the way some wines are marketed toward women? Why am I so insanely passionate about the message I share in my upcoming memoir?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Bridget Albert and Julie Milroy on their excellent podcast called Served Up.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did my love of stories bring me to the world of podcasting?

How did I go from writing for magazines to publishing my first book?

What wine-insider stories will you read about in Red, White & Drunk All Over and Unquenchable?

How did great white sharks end up featuring in one of my adventures with a winemaker?

What was it like travelling to vineyards around the world with my young son?

What are some of my favourite wine-adjacent memories with my son?

What have I learned about myself while building my career in the wine industry?

How is my upcoming memoir different from my previous books?

Why is there a gap in wine marketing when it comes to women?

What progress is the wine world making in being more inclusive for women?

How can we as women help to move the industry forward?

Why am I so passionate about the messages I share in my upcoming memoir?

Why is it important for us to show the real and vulnerable aspects of our journeys?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Served Up

Served Up, hosted by Bridget Albert and Julie Milroy, is a podcast for beverage professionals to advance their skills, customer experiences, and work environments.

Bridget Albert is Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits National Director of Education Beam Suntory and an advocate for upbeat education that makes an impact.

Julie Milroy is Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Vice President of On-Premise and an innovative change leader, sales & marketing executive, career coach, educator and podcast co-host.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/167.

166: How Humor & High Tech Help Wine with Served Up Podcast's Julie Milroy & Bridget Albert Feb 02, 2022

What makes high tech a great complement to wine? How does humour help when you're learning about wine? Why is the personal aspect of wine becoming so important?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Bridget Albert and Julie Milroy on their excellent podcast called Served Up.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did I wind up in the non-traditional career of wine writing?

Which behind-the-schenes stories of the wine world can you explore in my first book, Red, White & Drunk All Over?

Has the pandemic changed the wine world and the hospitality industry at large?

What makes high tech a perfect complement to wine?

Why is messaging and storytelling so important in the world of wine?

How are stories becoming more powerful than brand names?

How can you elevate your home dining experience with wine?

Why does the sensory experience of wine help us to connect and make memories?

How can you build your confidence with wine when you’re just starting out?

How does my wine and food pairing course help you to build your wine skills while you’re having fun?

Why have I doubled down on food and wine pairing?

How can you have fun with wine on special occasions?

Which shocking snack and wine pairing do I especially enjoy?

How does humour help when you’re learning about wine?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Served Up

Served Up, hosted by Bridget Albert and Julie Milroy, is a podcast for beverage professionals to advance their skills, customer experiences, and work environments.

Bridget Albert is Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits National Director of Education Beam Suntory and an advocate for upbeat education that makes an impact. She has designed beverage programs and produced trainings for top national accounts that include the Hilton Worldwide Resorts Delta Airlines, American Airlines and Crystal Cruise Line. Bridget is also the co-author of “Market Fresh Mixology” and “Life, Love, Happiness & Cocktails.”

Julie Milroy is Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Vice President of On-Premise and an innovative change leader, sales & marketing executive, career coach, educator and podcast co-host. She has over 15 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry, spanning various roles in Sales, Human Resources, Marketing, and Commercial Strategy. Julie uses her diverse experiential background to create impact and results that are customer centric and collaborative. As a proud Korean American, Julie is passionate about supporting the AAPI & marginalized communities and empowering women in their career journey.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/166.

165: Volcanic Soils, Old Vines and Italian Wine Diversity with Wine Spectator Columnist Robert Camuto Jan 26, 2022

What does drinking Italian mean today? How has globalization impacted the Italian wine you drink? Do volcanic soils really make a wine taste different?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and journalist, Robert Camuto.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How does Emidio Pepe bring the past of southern Italy into the future?

How is the way of life different in the Mezzogiorno?

Why is lunch such an important part of the day in Italy?

Which fascinating winemakers did Robert dine with at one of his most memorable Italian meals?

Why does Robert love Aglianico wine?

How was star winemaker Elena Fucci inspired to become a first-generation winemaker?

Do volcanic wines live up to the hype?

What impact does volcanic activity have on terroir and ultimately wine?

Are there distinct tasting notes common among volcanic wines?

What makes Fiano wine special?

What was it like to meet the renowned winemaker, Sabino Loffredo?

What does drinking Italian mean today?

Key Takeaways

Robert’s insights into how globalization impacted the Italian wine we drink were fascinating, including his example of how the granddaughter of sharecroppers is able to communicate with other wine lovers around the globe to sell her traditional wines and she no longer has to sell just to the local cooperative. That ability to go global while you’re still a small producer adds to the diversity of the Italian wines we drink today.

I loved his example of drinking a different Italian wine every night of the year without repeating yourself, such is the range of grapes and styles in the country.

I agree with his take on how volcanic soils influence the taste of wine: it’s more about drainage than anything else, although a new eruption every century or so certainly changes the landscape and the soils, literally. Old vines have a more profound impact on a wine’s taste, wherever they grow, in volcanic or other soils around the world.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Robert Camuto

Robert Camuto is an award-winning American journalist who has lived and worked in Europe for more than twenty years. He has authored three highly acclaimed books that focused on wine as a cultural and individual expression in the 21st century. His latest book, South of Somewhere: Wine, Food and the Soul of Italy is both a personal memoir of his Italian family ties and delicious travels to Italy over 50 years, as well as a portrait of Italy’s southern wine and food renaissance today. It was named among the best wine books of the year by The New York Times, The Washington Post, JancisRobinson.com, TimAtkin.com and others. His previous books were Corkscrewed: Adventures in the New French Wine Country (2008) followed by Palmento: A Sicilian Wine Odyssey (2010).

As an American in Europe, Camuto has written for some of the world’s best-known publications on food and wine culture and since 2008 he has worked as a contributing editor for Wine Spectator. In addition to serving as a key features writer responsible for many WS cover stories, Camuto writes a twice-monthly column for winespectator.com, called Robert Camuto Meets….which, like all his work, focuses on the human and cultural sides of wine.

A graduate of the Columbia University School of Journalism, Camuto worked as a news reporter, features editor and founding weekly newspaper publisher in Texas before moving to France in 2001. In 2015, he and his wife moved to their current home in Verona, Italy. In the Old World, he gravitated to wine as a way of exploring more than flavours—as a way to understand local histories, politics, agriculture, traditions and tastes told through colourful characters.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/165.

164: Southern Italy's Wine, Food & Flavour in Robert Camuto's South of Somewhere Book Jan 19, 2022

Are you curious about the hidden wine gems in southern Italy? Who are the colourful characters and winemakers who create them? What are the sumptuous flavours of the region and how well do they pair with wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with author and journalist, Robert Camuto.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

Highlights

What was the inspiration behind Robert’s decision to become a writer?

What was Robert’s worst moment in his writing career?

What does Robert love most about travelling around Europe?

Which celebrity wines are worth trying?

Why did Robert choose the title "South of Somewhere”?

How is Italy’s makeup different from other countries?

What are some key facts to know about Southern Italy?

What was the lethal “Methanol Scandal” about?

Why does the south of Italy have more varieties of indigenous grapes?

When did Robert fall in love with the Mediterranean?

How has technology helped bring out the complexity that we find in modern wine?

Which interesting Trebbiano innovation is Giampaolo Tabarrini responsible for?

Key Takeaways

I loved listening to Robert describe the vivid flavours and people of southern Italy. It makes me want to return there. In my second book, Unquenchable, I devote one chapter to Sicily and talk about how the active volcano Mount Etna influences both the wines and mindsets of the island. I highly recommend you visit this magical place, as well as drink the wines here.

I’m drawn to stories about specific people, and Robert has many of them. I think the specific tells more about the universal than generalizations do.

His mouth-watering descriptions of the food there make me yearn to taste them, if only in my own kitchen for now.

About Robert Camuto

Robert Camuto is an award-winning American journalist who has lived and worked in Europe for more than twenty years. He has authored three highly acclaimed books that focused on wine as a cultural and individual expression in the 21st century. His latest book, South of Somewhere: Wine, Food and the Soul of Italy is both a personal memoir of his Italian family ties and delicious travels to Italy over 50 years, as well as a portrait of Italy’s southern wine and food renaissance today. It was named among the best wine books of the year by The New York Times, The Washington Post, JancisRobinson.com, TimAtkin.com and others. His previous books were Corkscrewed: Adventures in the New French Wine Country (2008) followed by Palmento: A Sicilian Wine Odyssey (2010).

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/164.

163: Travel Tips for Austria & Washington Wine Regions with Interpreting Wine's Lawrence Francis Jan 12, 2022

What's the smartest strategy you’ve never heard when it comes to visiting any wine region? More specifically, what’s the best way to explore the wineries of Washington state or Burgenland in Austria? Why is there such a variety in the complexity of Grüner Veltliners? What are the essential six stories about wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Lawrence Francis, host of the Interpreting Wine podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

Highlights

Where would you find Burgenland in Austria?

How does Burgenland’s most well-known wine, Blaufränkisch, compare to other well-known reds?

What are Lawrence’s favourite food pairings for Blaufränkisch?

Why is there such a variety in the complexity of Grüner Veltliners?

What does aged Grüner Veltliner taste like?

How are Lawrence’s best tips for planning a wine trip to Austria?

Why is Lawrence excited about Austrian wine?

Why does Washington state have diverse terroirs?

How do the different soil types in Washington lend themselves to diverse wine styles?

What are the wines of Washington’s Red Mountain AVA like?

Which Washington Syrah was Lawrence’s most surprising wine ever?

Why did Lawrence develop the six wine stories concept?

How do the six stories fit into the bigger marketing picture for wine brands?

Key Takeaways

I love the strategy of starting a wine trip in a base city and talking to sommeliers and restaurant owners about which wineries you should visit. You also get to taste the wines and determine which houses make the styles you like.

I agree with Lawrence about the dazzling array of complexity and flavour in Grüner Veltliner, one of the most undervalued white wines in the world and one of the most food-friendly.

I liked Lawrence’s essential six stories about wine, and especially how wine is not a spectator sport. You gotta get in there!

About Lawrence Francis

Lawrence Francis spent 10 years as a Psychologist and Coach before entering the wine industry. He’s been the host of the Interpreting Wine podcast since 2017; helping winemakers with underpriced, undersold or unknown wines address these challenges with compelling storytelling that engages wine consumers. Four years later, he’s now published more than 430 episodes, with more than 300,000 downloads in 150 countries.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/163.

162: Sherry, Rioja, Cava and Other Spanish Wine Gems with Interpreting Wine's Lawrence Francis Jan 05, 2022

Why is Sherry one of the most complex wines on the planet and also one of the most misunderstood? What’s it like to visit the underground caves in Spain where the sparkling wine Cava is aged? How can you choose between Cava, Prosecco and Champagne for different occasions?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Lawrence Francis, host of the Interpreting Wine podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live? Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

Highlights

What was the inspiration behind Lawrence’s at-home podcast studio?

How did Lawrence find his way from psychology to the wine industry?

What is Hemingway’s connection to the wines of Spain?

What’s it like to visit Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, where Cava is aged in caves under the city?

What are some of the unique and interesting aspects of Cava and its production?

How can you choose between Cava, Prosecco and Champagne for different occasions?

What makes the Copa Jerez International Competition of Gastronomy and Sherry Pairing so exciting?

Which sherry and food pairing was most memorable for Lawrence?

Why does sherry pair so well with food?

Why should producers share more about grapes and terroir when talking about sherry?

What makes sherry so complex?

How do the alcohol levels in sherry compare to Port?

What was the goal behind creating sherry cocktails?

Why does Lawrence think we should be paying more attention to Madrid wines?

How are the younger generations of Rioja winemakers changing the landscape?

Key Takeaways

Lawrence reminds us that sherry is one of the most complex, delicious wines on the planet, with its range from dry to sweet, and the myriad of nutty flavours and colours it creates. That also makes it so food-friendly, from tapas to seafood.

It would be magical to visit the underground caves in Spain where the sparkling wine Cava is aged. I enjoyed how he gave us an underground tour of the city of Sant Sadurní d'Anoia in our minds. I can just imagine millions of resting bottles in those quiet caves.

I found it helpful how he differentiated Prosecco, Cava and Champagne in terms of food pairing and occasion.

About Lawrence Francis

Lawrence Francis spent 10 years as a Psychologist and Coach before entering the wine industry. He’s been the host of the Interpreting Wine podcast since 2017; helping winemakers with underpriced, undersold or unknown wines address these challenges with compelling storytelling that engages wine consumers. Four years later, he’s now published more than 430 episodes, with more than 300,000 downloads in 150 countries.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/162.

161: Tech is Transforming Wine with the Wine School Dropout's Tanisha Townsend Dec 29, 2021

What makes wine and technology such a perfect pairing? Why should you try online wine classes? How is technology empowering wine consumers?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Tanisha Townsend on her podcast, Wine School Dropout.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did I go from high tech to wine writing?

Why do I find the pairing of wine and tech to be fascinating?

What has changed about wine and the internet since my first article was published 20 years ago?

Why are food and wine pairing classes so popular?

What are some of the unexpected benefits of online wine courses?

Which new creative intersections of wine and tech am I excited about

How is technology empowering wine consumers?

What advantages are there to using my mobile wine app?

Why do I love podcasting?

What makes a great podcast guest interview?

What can you expect from my upcoming third book?

Where do the concepts for my books start from?

Which wine do I love to pair with my favourite snack?

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Want to know when we go live?

Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Tanisha Townsend

Tanisha Townsend is Chief Wine Officer of lifestyle agency Girl Meets Glass. She leads wine classes and tours in Paris as well as online. She also hosts the podcast, Wine School Dropout. Her goal is to empower people with advanced knowledge of wine and spirits to build confidence in their tastes and make choices when buying wine.

Credit

Wine School Dropout Music is by Makaih beats

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/161.

160: Longshot Wines Bet Big on Market Launch with Winemaker Beth Liston Dec 22, 2021

Are you curious about how a wine brand breaks through in a new market? Why is the wine category one of the most difficult to offer a great price/quality ratio? What unique challenges do women winemakers face in the industry?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Beth Liston, a rebel winemaker from California who’s just launched a new wine called Longshot.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did Beth’s interest in restoring vintage cars get started?

When did Beth realize she wanted to become a winemaker?

Which valuable lessons did Beth learn from working a harvest in South Australia?

What’s the most exciting aspect of being a winemaker?

What does it mean to find your voice as a winemaker?

What was the concept behind the creation of Longshot/Dark Horse wine?

Why is it particularly difficult to maximize wine’s price-quality ratio?

How do the techniques used in making Longshot/Dark Horse help them to stand out in their category?

What has Beth learned from her experimentation with blending grapes?

How does Beth translate inspiration from trends in cocktails and beer into winemaking?

What are the biggest trends currently dominating the drink industry?

How can you identify thiols when tasting wine?

What tasting experience can you expect from Longshot/Dark Horse Pinot Noir and Chardonnay?

Which food pairings should you try with Longshot/Dark Horse Pinot Noir?

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a winemaker?

How does Beth navigate the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field?

Key Takeaways

My MBA brain loves the back story of how a new wine brand breaks into a new market. So many factors are at play from the product itself and packaging to getting consumers to try the wine and building loyalty through repeat purchases.

The wine category is one of the most difficult to offer a great price/quality ratio given the vagaries of weather from year to year. As Beth notes, it’s an agricultural product, unlike say breakfast cereal where you can control production. It’s also capital intensive, from having to age wine so you're tying up your cash flow, to the substantial investment in equipment, from presses to bottling lines.

And finally, I admire her approach to building credibility in the industry as a woman and as a winemaker, regardless of gender. It takes perseverance, a love of change and adaptability and a willingness to get down in the trenches, or should we say the cellar, and learn the job from the ground up.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live?

Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Beth Liston

Beth Liston discovered her interest in wine while growing up on California’s Central Coast. During college, she worked in a local tasting room, developing a fascination for both the art and science that goes into making great wines.

Beth earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in Wine and Viticulture from California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo. After graduating, she completed graduate work in oenology and worked in wine sales in Austin, Texas before setting her sights on winemaking.

With more than a decade of harvests behind her, Beth has acquired diverse winemaking experiences from the Limestone Coast of South Australia to Napa Valley.

She’s now the Director of Winemaking for Dark Horse wines in Modesto, in California’s Central Valley. Outside of work, Beth enjoys spending time with her husband, Daniel, and their two sons, relaxing with yoga and travelling to explore new cultures through food and wine. She joins us now from Modesto, California.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/160.

159: Cosmo's Sex & the City, Champagne, Whisky Women in Mallory O’Meara's Girly Drinks Dec 15, 2021

How did the Cosmopolitan become an iconic cocktail on the TV show Sex and the City? Did you know an illegal shipment of Champagne revolutionized the entire industry? Which women are responsible for America's increase in scotch and bourbon consumption after Prohibition?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Mallory O'Meara, the author of the just-published Girly Drinks: A World History of Women and Alcohol.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did the Cosmopolitan become the signature drink of Sex and the City?

Which next-level Cosmo should you try for your next cocktail?

What’s the connection between Carrie Bradshaw and the oversized wine glasses we now see everywhere on TV?

What’s the strong female history behind the drinks we now think of as categorically masculine?

How did Bessie Williamson and Margie Samuels revolutionize the scotch, whiskey and bourbon markets in America after Prohibition?

What role did Veuve Clicquot’s kitchen play in transforming the way Champagne is made?

How did Veuve Clicquot and Louise Pommery completely change the Champagne market?

Which drink does Mallory prefer while writing?

Why is a daiquiri Mallory’s favourite cocktail?

What are Mallory’s least favourite drinks?

How did Mallory first get into wine?

What impact does Mallory hope Girly Drinks will have?

How has book and author culture adapted to Covid?

What’s the last great book Mallory read?

Whose interesting story got left on the cutting room floor?

My Tips for Navigating Wine During the Holiday Season

How should you think about which wines to pair with Christmas dinner?

Which wines will make great additions to your cocktail party?

How can you pick the right wines for every gifting occasion?

Key Takeaways

I loved the story behind how the Cosmopolitan became an iconic cocktail on the TV show Sex and the City, especially since I loved that show when it first came out and am now gobbling up every episode of the new reboot. There are so many parallels in other industries: you may not be able to afford the multi-thousand dollar Versace outfit on the runway, but maybe you can buy the perfume. The Cosmo was and is an aspirational drink for many women and some men and non-binaries too.

Veuve Clicquot is a classic kick-ass woman’s story, from getting through the Napoleonic blockades to selling her jewelry to fund the business.

I loved hearing about swash-buckling women responsible for America's increase in scotch and bourbon consumption after Prohibition.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live?

Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mallory O'Meara

Mallory is an award-winning and best-selling author and historian. She lives with her two cats in the mountains near Los Angeles, where she is at work on her next nonfiction book. Bourbon is her drink of choice.

Her first book, The Lady From The Black Lagoon: Hollywood Monsters and the Lost Legacy of Milicent Patrick, is a Los Angeles Times bestseller. It won the 2019 SCIBA Award for Biography, the Rondo 2019 Book of the Year and was nominated for the Hugo and Locus awards. Her second book, Girly Drinks: A Feminist History of Women and Alcohol, was just released.

Every week, Mallory hosts the literary podcast Reading Glasses alongside filmmaker and writer Brea Grant. The show is hosted by Maximum Fun and focuses on book culture and reader life.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/159.

158: Girly Drinks with Mallory O’Meara on the History of Women and Alcohol Dec 08, 2021

Did you know that the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra has her own, private wine club and that it was used against her to bring down her empire? Are you curious about the first people to make beer? They were women called alewives, but the church didn’t like that. Did you know that the first bars were created for women?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Mallory O'Meara, the author of the just-published Girly Drinks: A World History of Women and Alcohol.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did Mallory’s thirst for knowledge take her from filmmaker to writer?

What has been the best moment in Mallory’s wine career so far?

What was it like writing about world history during lockdowns and the pandemic?

Why were libraries so important in Mallory’s research for Girly Drinks?

What can you expect from Girly Drinks?

How did Mallory’s curiosity lead her to write Girly Drinks?

Why did Mallory decide to put so much research into the writing of Girly Drinks?

What is a micro-history?

How does Girly Drinks take you on a journey from the beginning of civilization to the present day?

What was Cleopatra’s connection to wine and what surprising role did it play in her downfall?

How did the social stigma associated with women who drink begin?

What important role did alewives play for a significant time in our history?

What role did the nun Hildegard of Bingen early church play in the shifting attitudes toward women and alcohol?

How did the nun Hildegard of Bingen revolutionize the beer industry?

How did Catherine the Great harness the people’s love of vodka in her rise to Empress?

Why were bars originally a marker of feminized drinking?

What made Gertrude "Cleo" Lythgoe the most successful bootlegger during Prohibition?

What was Ada Coleman’s impact on cocktails as the first female celebrity bartender?

Key Takeaways

I was surprised to learn that the first known depiction of someone drinking was a woman, but not so surprised that men thought she was playing a horn from the wrong end.

I love the story about Cleopatra’s drinking club with Mark Antony called the inimitable livers and her intoxication ring. I need to get one of those. It’s fascinating how the gendered perceptions of alcohol consumption was used against her to bring down her empire.

It was also interesting to discover that women made most of the alcohol back in the day from beer to wine as it was considered a domestic art. Again, not surprised that the church cast alewives cauldrons and brooms as symbols for witches.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live?

Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Mallory O'Meara

Mallory is an award-winning and best-selling author and historian. She lives with her two cats in the mountains near Los Angeles, where she is at work on her next nonfiction book. Bourbon is her drink of choice.

Her first book, The Lady From The Black Lagoon: Hollywood Monsters and the Lost Legacy of Milicent Patrick, is a Los Angeles Times bestseller. It won the 2019 SCIBA Award for Biography, the Rondo 2019 Book of the Year and was nominated for the Hugo and Locus awards.

Her second book, Girly Drinks: A Feminist History of Women and Alcohol, was just released.

Every week, Mallory hosts the literary podcast Reading Glasses alongside filmmaker and writer Brea Grant. The show is hosted by Maximum Fun and focuses on book culture and reader life.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/158.

157: Dom Perignon, Chateau Montelena and Wine for Your Zodiac Sign Dec 01, 2021

What's it like to experience a piece of Dom Pérignon history? Has the legendary California Chardonnay Chateau Montelena 1973 Chardonnay held up in the years since the Judgement of Paris? How can you pair wine with your Zodiac sign?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine writer, Gina Birch and broadcaster Julie Glenn, hosts of the Grape Minds podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What makes Spain a great destination for wine lovers?

How did Julie finally become a Lambrusco fan?

Has the legendary Chateau Montelena 1973 Chardonnay held up in the years since the Judgement of Paris?

What can you learn through comparative tastings?

What was it like to experience the history of Dom Pérignon through St. Hilaire Abbey in Limoux?

How can you pair wine with your zodiac sign?

Which controversial Grape Minds interview almost didn’t make it to air?

How has cancer affected Julie's experience with wine?

What are my favourite Pinot Noirs?

Why does Julie believe consolidation of the wine industry is bad for wine?

How can you pair your favourite childhood foods with wine?

What are Gina and Julie's go-to wine books?

Which of Gina and Julie's favourite wine gadgets should you try?

How long should you save "special" wines?

Key Takeaways

I loved Gina’s story about experiencing a piece of Dom Pérignon history. That’s the magical connection between wine and place.

I’m impressed that the legendary California Chardonnay Chateau Montelena 1973 Chardonnay held up in the years since the Judgement of Paris.

I enjoyed Julie pairing wine with your Zodiac sign. It’s uncanny that she picked Pinot Noir for Libras even before we met. As you know, it’s my go-to vino.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live?

Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Gina Birch and Julie Glenn

Gina Birch grew up in Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and public relations from Troy University, in Alabama. Her first job was in radio news, which eventually led her to Fort Myers, Florida, where she hosted a top-rated morning show for almost 15 years. She also started writing about food, wine, spirits and travel for USA Today, the Napa Register and the Fort Myers News-Press.

Julie Glenn earned her Master’s degree in communication from the Slow Food University of Gastronomic Sciences in Piedmont, Italy and is fluent in Italian. She also has an undergraduate degree in Mass Communication from the University of Missouri. She began her broadcasting career as a reporter/anchor/producer for both CBS and NBC affiliates. Before becoming the News Director at WGCU, the NPR affiliate for southwest Florida, Julie was the regular wine columnist for the Naples Daily News.

Gina and Julie had been friends for years and together they created Grape Minds, a wine podcast that’s also broadcasted on NPR. They talk about the people, culture, and history behind the wines, as well as wine travel and food pairings. They’ve also interviewed some of the best-known people in the wine world and as they note, have only destroyed one soundboard while tasting in the studio.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/157.

156: Italian Wines from Alto Adige, Portugal + Champagne with Grape Minds Julie Glenn & Gina Birch Nov 24, 2021

Are you curious about slow food and wine? What's special about the Alto Adige region of Italy? Why should you consider Portugal and Dubai for your next wine-fueled trip?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine writer, Gina Birch and broadcaster Julie Glen, hosts of the Grape Minds podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did Gina and Julie first meet?

What is it about Gina and Julie's styles that complement each other in their work?

What is a "ride with" in the wine industry?

What was Gina's most memorable "ride with" experience?

Which California-based faux pas left Julie mortified on a "ride with" with an important producer?

What's Julie's approach to talking about wines she doesn’t like?

Which embarrassing lesson did Julie learn about Pinot Grigio while living in Italy?

What makes the Naples Winter Wine Festival a unique and extraordinary experience?

Who were some of Gina and Julie's favourite interviewees at the Naples Winter Wine Festival?

What can you expect from a visit to the Alto Adige region in Italy?

Which wines first tempted Julie and Gina to go deeper into the world of wine?

What's the worst food and wine pairing that Gina has tried?

Why did a seven-course Champagne dinner leave a lasting impression on Julie?

What great, casual foods should you try pairing with Champagne?

What brought Julie to her studies in Italy?

Which chance encounter led to Julie meeting her husband in Italy?

Why should you add Portugal to your must-visit list as a wine lover

What was it like to attend the Expo 2020 World Expo in Dubai?

Does Dubai have a big wine scene?

Key Takeaways

I loved learning more about the Alto Adige region of Italy, and Julie's story about Pinot Grigio. I'm adding those wines to my shopping list.

I'm fascinated with Dubai and what it would be like to visit that city. I'll put that one on my bucket list.

I agree that wine is both subjective like art and at times embarrassing, and we can learn so much if we open ourselves up to those experiences.

Join me on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube Live Video

Join the live-stream video of this conversation on Wednesday at 7 pm eastern on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video.

I'll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What's your opinion of what we're discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Want to know when we go live?

Add this to your calendar: https://www.addevent.com/calendar/CB262621

About Gina Birch and Julie Glenn

Gina Birch grew up in Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and public relations from Troy University, in Alabama. Her first job was in radio news, which eventually led her to Fort Myers, Florida, where she hosted a top-rated morning show for almost 15 years. She also started writing about food, wine, spirits and travel for USA Today, the Napa Register and the Fort Myers News-Press.

Julie Glenn earned her Master's degree in communication from the Slow Food University of Gastronomic Sciences in Piedmont, Italy and is fluent in Italian. She also has an undergraduate degree in Mass Communication from the University of Missouri. She began her broadcasting career as a reporter/anchor/producer for both CBS and NBC affiliates. Before becoming the News Director at WGCU, the NPR affiliate for southwest Florida, Julie was the regular wine columnist for the Naples Daily News.

Gina and Julie had been friends for years and together they created Grape Minds, a wine podcast that’s also broadcasted on NPR. They talk about the people, culture, and history behind the wines, as well as wine travel and food pairings. They've also interviewed some of the best-known people in the wine world and as they note, have only destroyed one soundboard while tasting in the studio.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/156.

155: Should You Celebrate (and Drink) Beaujolais Nouveau Wines This Year? Nov 17, 2021

What’s all the fuss about Beaujolais Nouveau on the third Thursday of every November? Should you stay up until midnight to taste the new release? How is Beaujolais Nouveau different from the Beaujolais Cru wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm going solo to answer those questions and share more wine tips on Beaujolais Nouveau.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

When is Beaujolais Nouveau released?

How has Beaujolais Nouveau’s popularity spread?

Why did the Duke of Burgundy order a purge of Gamay grapes?

Should you save a bottle of Beaujolais Nouveau for your cellar?

What do you need to know about the different types of Beaujolais Nouveau?

Which Beaujolais Nouveau labels should you try?

Are Nouveau-style wines produced outside of Beaujolais?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/155.

154: Pairing Books & Bottles, Organizing Wine Tastings Nov 10, 2021

What do great books and great wine have in common? Why does it feel like the wine changes when you taste the same vintage years later, apart from it maturing (and possibly you as well)? How can you pair books and bottles? How can you organize an informal wine tasting with friends or your book club?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Sam Hiyate on his podcast, Agent Provocateur.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Which Niagara wine pairs well with haunting books that stay with you long after you finish them?

Why don’t I recommend The Handmaid’s Tale wines?

How can you pair Nasty Woman wines?

Which bottle would I bring on a boat with a tiger?

What can you learn from revisiting old bottles and books you loved?

Why should you host a wine tasting party or wine club?

How can you maximize your budget and selection for a wine tasting?

What are my best tips for creating the guestlist for your wine tasting?

How can you help your guests drink in moderation at a tasting party?

What are horizontal and vertical tastings?

What types of themes can you try at your wine tasting?

What’s involved in a blind tasting?

Which type of stemware works best for multiple types of wines?

How can you prepare appropriately for expectoration?

Which characteristics should you look for when tasting wine?

What’s the best technique to use for tasting wine?

About Sam Hiyate

Sam Hiyate worked at the literary magazines, Blood & Aphorisms and The Quarterly, in the 90s. He ran the edgy micropublisher, Gutter Press, from 1993 to 2002, as publisher. He launched the literary division of The Lavin Agency in 2003, where he built a list of clients and did his first deals.

Sam’s projects for the agency have been in various categories, including memoir, literary and commercial fiction, narrative non-fiction and graphic novels. He’s looking for works of all categories with distinct and compelling voices. He loved to discover and help new writers prepare their works for the market, and to help them build a career with their talent.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/154.

153: Restaurant Wine Lists, Poutine, Niagara & Pairing Tips Nov 03, 2021

What are my top tips for choosing a bottle from a long restaurant wine list? What are the best wines to pair with extremely rich dishes like poutine? What would surprise you about the Niagara-on-the-Lake wine region and why should you visit?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Scott Greenberg, on his podcast, The Vine Guy. He also hosts the “Wine of the Week” show on WTOP radio in Washington, DC.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How have I incorporated my love of tech into my wine career?

What are the advantages to you of learning about food and wine online?

What will you learn in my online food and wine pairing classes?

How has the pandemic impacted my food and wine pairing classes?

How can you use my butter or lemon trick for each food and wine pairing?

Why is food and wine pairing something you should pay attention to?

How can you comfortably navigate intimidating restaurant wine lists?

What’s the weirdest food and wine pairing I’ve ever had?

Which wines should you try the next time you’re looking for a poutine pairing?

How do the tasting experiences with La Crema Pinot Noir and Hidden Valley Pinot Noir compare?

Why should you make a plan to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake?

Why is the Veuve Clicquot at the top of my list of people across time that I’d like to share a bottle with?

About Scott Greenberg

Scott Greenberg, also known as “The Vine Guy”, is the host of the “Wine of the Week” show on WTOP radio in Washington, DC and the Vine Guy Podcast. Scott started his career in wine journalism as the syndicated wine columnist for the Washington Journal Newspaper and continues to contribute to Tasting Panel Magazine.

He’s also hosted numerous wine tastings, judged wine competitions and has taught a course on North American Wineries for the Smithsonian Associates program in Washington. Scott is To Kalon Vineyard Specialist and Italian Wine Scholar. He recently relocated from Maryland to Park City, Utah, where he lives with his wife, Cindy, and a rescue dog named Frankie.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/153.

152: Field Blends, Pet-Nats and Memoir with Rachel Signer Oct 27, 2021

What is it like to make wine totally by hand, without electricity? What is a field blend and why should you try one? What’s the most difficult part of writing a memoir?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Rachel Signer, who has just published a gripping, addictive memoir, You Had Me at Pet-Nat.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why did Rachel start Pipette Magazine?

How has the wine community responded to Pipette?

How did Rachel stay eco-friendly while producing a print magazine?

What is a Pet-Nat?

What is the tasting experience like for Rachel’s 2020 Pet-Nat?

What’s it like to make wine totally by hand?

Which types of food pair well with Pet-Nats?

What goes into a field blend?

Are natural wines and raw wines one and the same?

What can you expect to read about in Rachel’s memoir, You Had Me At Pet-Nat?

Why is it hard to write a memoir compared to fiction?

What lessons did Rachel learn through writing her book?

How did Rachel find the process of finding a publisher for her book?

What’s it like to promote a new book during a pandemic?

Why is Rachel excited about Canlibero Pink Freud?

Key Takeaways

I admire how Rachel and her husband have tried to be as low-intervention as possible when making wine, even to the point of working the press by hand and not with electricity.

I’ve always loved the complexity and taste of field blends. I hope you’ll seek them out for your sipping pleasure.

I so relate with Rachel that writing about those you love is the most difficult part of writing a memoir, as I continue to edit my own manuscript.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, November 24th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tewg8-WtS12gq6YygSQ1lg. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a one-year subscription to Pipette Magazine, a gorgeously illustrated magazine about natural wines.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of the posts on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on November 17th.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Rachel Signer

Rachel Signer is a wine writer originally from Virginia, now living in South Australia. She’s written for numerous publications, including The Guardian, Vogue and Eater. She’s also the publisher and founder of Pipette Magazine, an independent magazine about natural wines sold in over twenty countries. She makes natural wines with her husband in the Adelaide Hills under the labels Lucy M and Persephone Wines. Her fabulous memoir, You Had Me at Pet-Nat, has just been published by Hachette Books.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/152.

151: You Had Me At Pét-Nat: Gripping Wine Memoir by Rachel Signer Oct 20, 2021

How are natural wines different from raw or clean wines? Why do natural wines provoke furious debates in the wine world? Why will you want to read our guest’s new memoir that’s hot off the press (pun intended)?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Rachel Signer, who has just published a gripping, addictive memoir, You Had Me at Pet-Nat.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did a trip to the Loire Valley give Rachel the impetus to start her magazine?

What was it like to meet one of the most famous natural winemakers, Nicolas Joly?

What role does sulphur play in winemaking?

How does ageing differ for a no-sulphur-added wine?

Why was living in Spain a life-changing experience for Rachel?

Do you need formal training to be a serious wine professional?

What is Rachel’s approach to wine self-education?

What are Rachel’s top tips for getting the most out of your visit to a wine region?

Why does natural wine provoke such strong debates in the wine world?

How is Rachel helping bring new people into the world the natural wine?

What makes the natural wine world a movement and a culture?

Which criteria does Rachel use for natural wine in her magazine?

How did a wild bus ride on a Georgian wine trip lead to Rachel meeting her winemaker husband?

Why aren’t Rachel’s wines certified organic?

Why does Rachel always have her copy of Ernest Hemingway’s memoir with her?

Key Takeaways

I usually summarize my take-aways, but today I’m going to share some reviews of Rachel’s new memoir with you as I recommend it highly:

"From Paris to Australia, Signer takes us on a gripping journey to reclaim her sense of self through the medium of the natural wine she loves so much. You Had Me at Pét-Nat is a reminder of the importance of rebirth, the restorative power of love, and the invigorating gifts of nature. A must read for bon vivants and explorers alike." — Victoria James, author of Wine Girl: The Obstacles, Humiliations, and Triumphs of America's Youngest Sommelier

"I lean more toward Champagne than Pét-Nat, but Rachel Signer’s addictive memoir drew me deep into the world of natural wine and into the company of its eccentric, obsessive and hedonistic citizens. Ultimately, though, it is Signer’s personal journey, her search for love and identity, which makes this such a compelling and moving book." —Jay McInerney, author of Bright Lights, Big City and Bacchus and Me: Adventures in the Wine Cellar

“Signer… takes readers on a movable feast… In this love letter to not only natural wines but also the community and ethos that sustain them, Signer shares her wine experiences, from working in a restaurant and wine shop to wine journalism and harvesting grapes, emphasizing both the traditions and environmental impact of vineyards and wine production…Her extensive journalistic experience shines through, and readers will learn never to look at a glass of wine again without considering the people pouring their hearts into every bottle.” —Booklist

"You Had Me at Pét-Nat was like my favorite bottle of wine; I consumed it in one sitting. Dive head-first into the natural wine world with Rachel Signer to discover why these wines will deepen your pleasure as you meet the witty oddballs who make them. This is also the story of how one woman found healing and love when she finally let go of who she thought she should be and started living fully, wildly alive, as much as the wine in her glass." —Natalie MacLean, author of Red, White, and Drunk All Over and Unquenchable!

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, November 17th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DfbS5Q6zQNC8dKwd_6svuA. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a one-year subscription to Pipette Magazine, a gorgeously illustrated magazine about natural wines.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of the posts on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on November 17th.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Rachel Signer

Rachel Signer is a wine writer originally from Virginia, now living in South Australia. She’s written for numerous publications, including The Guardian, Vogue and Eater. She’s also the publisher and founder of Pipette Magazine, an independent magazine about natural wines sold in over twenty countries. She makes natural wines with her husband in the Adelaide Hills under the labels Lucy M and Persephone Wines. Her fabulous memoir, You Had Me at Pet-Nat, has just been published by Hachette Books.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/151.

150: Bottle of the Sexist: Marketing Wine to Women with Felicity Carter Oct 13, 2021

What do fortune-telling and wine writing have in common? How does wine culture change when women are part of its founding? Should you believe the health claims about clean wines? Are they really better for you? What are the fairy tales we tell about wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine writer, Felicity Carter who is the Executive Editor at Pix.wine, a global wine discovery platform based in California.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, November 3rd at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Highlights

How did Felicity’s journey from fortune teller to skeptic show up in her wine career?

What was the most important lesson Felicity learned in her time as an astrologer?

How can Pix help to simplify your wine buying process?

What makes Pix different from other review sites?

Why was it important to Felicity for Pix and The Drop to be completely independent?

Which experience first gave Felicity confidence in her ability as a wine writer?

How did Felicity get exposed by Gordon Ramsay?

What gruelling assignment did Felicity have to complete for a food magazine?

What’s Felicity’s involvement in the German Wine Queen competition?

When did Felicity first feel the power of the press?

What was it like being editor-in-chief of the prestigious Meiningers magazine for over 12 years?

Why are wines marketed as gluten-free problematic?

Are there health benefits offered by dry-farmed wines?

Should you be concerned about the “goopification” of wine?

Why are false advertising and fear-mongering in wine marketing so dangerous?

What’s the problem with the gendered marketing of wine?

What can wine retailers learn from the adult toy industry?

Which terms, tropes and tales do we overuse as wine writers?

Why is Felicity excited about audio for the future of wine communication?

Is Amazon going to become a big player in the wine world?

Why do so few women own and operate wineries?

Why doesn’t the fast-food metaphor work for wine?

What’s Felicity’s unpopular opinion about sulphur?

Which grown-up wine would Felicity pair with her favourite dish from childhood?

What was the weirdest wine pairing Felicity had?

Who would Felicity love to share a bottle of wine with?

If Felicity had a billboard in downtown San Francisco, what would it say?

Which wine does Felicity feel a personal connection with?

Why would Felicity want bad wine to be served at her funeral?

Key Takeaways

The wine industry is long overdue for a shake-up in how we market wine to women, from treating them like cash cows who only enjoy cheap, mommy juice to a diverse group of people who have a range of tastes.

Wine culture develops in a profoundly different way when women are part of its founding. My hope is that we can plant those seeds in other pockets of the industry, whether that’s new types of wines or ways to appreciate it.

Felicity hits hard against the marketers who make spurious health claims about clean wines. She’s right that if the wine industry itself doesn’t clean up its act, the government will do it for them, the way they did with big tobacco. It’s a clarion call not to be ignored.

About Felicity Carter

Felicity Carter is the Executive Editor at Pix.wine, a global wine discovery platform. She was previously Editor-in-Chief of Meininger’s Wine Business International magazine. Her work has appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, The Guardian and Decanter, among others. Felicity has a delightfully wide range, having also written about astrology, oil and gas, the funeral industry, and skateboarding for boys. As a romance novel editor, her main editorial note was "this is not physically possible." Before becoming a journalist, Felicity worked as an advertising copywriter in blue-chip agencies, doing creative work for clients such as Qantas, Adobe, MasterCard and more.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/150.

149: Promiscuous Wine Buying, Orange, Natural and Raw Wines Oct 06, 2021

Why are orange wines appealing to beer drinkers? Why does it pay to be promiscuous when shopping for wine? Why is there so much confusion around natural and raw wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Elizabeth Schneider on the Wine For Normal People podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why is there so much confusion around natural and raw wine?

What is the natural wine movement about?

What makes a good celebrity wine?

What’s the problem with diet and alcohol-free wines?

How is global warming affecting the wine world?

Are prominent wine regions taking proactive steps to mitigate the effects of climate change?

What makes orange wines great for beer drinkers?

How has the wine industry evolved from celebrity-type critics to wine influencers and beyond?

What do you need to know about finding a good bottle of wine?

Is the wine industry dying?

Why do Elizabeth and I love a good wine in a box?

About Elizabeth Schneider

After graduating from Wesleyan University (CT) and starting my career in Boston, Elizabeth quickly realized that her heart was more in her hobby than in her high-tech job. Trips to the wine shop often yielded awesomely poor (but hilarious) results, so Elizabeth and her sister finally took a course at the Boston Center for Adult Education to learn how to taste and appreciate wine. And that kicked it all off.

A stint in St. John in the Caribbean to wait tables and just unwind for 8 months (yes, she quit my high-tech corporate job, packed two bags, and hopped on a plane), was followed by a great two years completing my MBA at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where she met M.C. Ice, her podcast partner, and husband) and since then her career has been solely about wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/149.

148: Behind the Scenes of Wine Writing + Wine Trends with Elizabeth Schneider Sep 29, 2021

What are the latest trends in wine, from blue wines to raw wines? And should you be drinking them? Why are high-tech and wine a perfect pairing? What's it like behind the scenes of the wine writing industry? How do you recover from devastating professional and personal attacks?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Elizabeth Schneider on the Wine For Normal People podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What happy accident introduced me to the world of great wines?

How did I go from visiting wineries on the weekend to becoming a wine writer?

Why do I think wine and tech are a perfect pairing?

What was unusual about my journey to publishing my first book?

How have I used storytelling as a common theme throughout my work?

What’s the real story behind the challenges and attacks I faced in 2021?

How do Canadian and American wine palates compare?

Which Canadian wine region am I most excited about right now?

Where can you find the best Canadian Pinot Noir?

Why is it so difficult to access Canadian wine in Canada?

About Elizabeth Schneider

After graduating from Wesleyan University (CT) and starting my career in Boston, Elizabeth quickly realized that her heart was more in her hobby than in her high-tech job. Trips to the wine shop often yielded awesomely poor (but hilarious) results, so Elizabeth and her sister finally took a course at the Boston Center for Adult Education to learn how to taste and appreciate wine. And that kicked it all off.

A stint in St. John in the Caribbean to wait tables and just unwind for 8 months (yes, I quit my high-tech corporate job, packed two bags, and hopped on a plane), was followed by a great two years completing my MBA at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where she met M.C. Ice, her podcast partner, and husband) and since then her career has been solely about wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/148.

147: Pet-Nats, Piquettes, Croatia & Comfort Wines with Kate Dingwall Sep 22, 2021

Are you curious about trendy new wines like pet-nats and piquettes? Which lesser-known Croatian wine should you try? What are comfort wines and what do you pair with them?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Kate Dingwall who writes about food and drink for Forbes, Toronto Life, The Toronto Star, Wine Enthusiast, among others.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How have restaurant wine lists been impacted by the pandemic?

Why have many restaurants had to sell off their cellars?

What does the increased consumer wine education mean for restaurants?

What are pét-nat wines?

Why are pét-nat wines a fun, casual option?

Which North American pét-nats does Kate recommend?

Why should you try Piquette?

What’s Kate’s approach to wine tasting?

How can you pair shrimp chips with wine?

What’s the weirdest food and wine pairing Kate’s ever had?

Which Croatian wine does Kate believe deserves more attention?

What’s Kate’s favourite wine book?

Why would Kate love to share a bottle of wine with Salvador Dali?

Which type of wine does Kate identify with the most?

What’s Kate’s top wine tip for you?

Key Takeaways

Kate gave a great overview of trendy new wines like pet-nats and piquettes. I also enjoyed her take on Croatian wines to try.

Restaurant lists and wine service are changing post-pandemic, from a reduced selection from having to sell off their cellars, to more educated consumers who know what they want.

I loved her suggestions for weird wine pairings and look forward to trying shrimp chips.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, September 29th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PXuKYtdmToC7Kl4z3lLsEQ. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

About Kate Dingwall

By day, Kate Dingwall is a seasoned writer and editor covering the intersection between spirits, business, culture and sustainability. By night Kate is a working wine professional. She's a food and beverage business contributor at Forbes.com, the drinks writer at Toronto Life and The Toronto Star, a columnist at The Whiskey Wash, wine writer at MAXIM, and a regular contributor to Liquor.com and The Spruce. Her work also appears in Elle InsideHook, The Spruce, Liquor.com, Toronto Life (print + online), Eater, MAXIM, Canada's 100 Best Restaurants (print + online), Porter Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, Foodism (print + online), VinePair, DuJour, CultureTrip, and The Bourbon Review (print).

Outside of writing, she finished her Masters of Brand Management program with a thesis on innovation in the American wine world. She spent a large chunk of her career working in New York City and consulting with a variety of beverage and hospitality powerhouses in the realm of brand development. She is currently based in Toronto and is a wine server at one of Canada's top restaurants.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/147.

146: Penedes, Spain, Croatia & Kosher Wines with Kate Dingwall Sep 15, 2021

What’s it like biking through the Penedes wine region of Spain? How can you find great Georgian wines without leaving North America? What makes a wine kosher, and why should you try kosher wines even if you’re not of the Jewish faith?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Kate Dingwall, who writes about food and wine for Forbes, Toronto Life, The Toronto Star, Wine Enthusiast, among others.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What’s it like to spend a week biking through the Penedes region in Spain?
What were some of Kate’s favourite Cava finds from her trip to Spain?
Which important wine lesson did Kate learn in the Languedoc region of France?
Which producer should you visit on a trip to the South of France?
What types of Georgian dishes did Kate discover that pair well with amber wine?
How can you try Georgian wine without leaving North America?
Why has orange wine become so popular?
How did Kate’s passion for wine and spirits organically start her food and drink writing career?
Are there commonalities between the fashion and wine industries?
What’s Kate's take on failure?
What would Kate do differently if she were to start over her wine career?
How have restaurant patrons' tastes changed since the pandemic?

Key Takeaways

I loved listening to Kate’s adventures biking through the Penedes wine region of Spain, as well as her tips on favourite Cavas, such amazingly great sparkling wines for the price.
She also had some great tips on finding Georgian wines in North America. These wines are experiencing such a huge revival. It’s worth seeking them out and pairing them with her suggestions.
Kate also had some great insights from her trip to southern France as well as a great producer to visit, Gerard Bertrand.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, September 22nd at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_91B7vKhMSliq77btHvXZBA. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

About Kate Dingwall

By day, Kate Dingwall is a seasoned writer and editor covering the intersection between spirits, business, culture and sustainability. By night Kate is a working wine professional. She's a food and beverage business contributor at Forbes.com, the drinks writer at Toronto Life and The Toronto Star, a columnist at The Whiskey Wash, wine writer at MAXIM, and a regular contributor to Liquor.com and The Spruce. Her work also appears in Elle InsideHook, The Spruce, Liquor.com, Toronto Life (print + online), Eater, MAXIM, Canada's 100 Best Restaurants (print + online), Porter Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, Foodism (print + online), VinePair, DuJour, CultureTrip, and The Bourbon Review (print).

Outside of writing, she finished her Masters of Brand Management program with a thesis on innovation in the American wine world. She spent a large chunk of her career working in New York City and consulting with a variety of beverage and hospitality powerhouses in the realm of brand development. She is currently based in Toronto and is a wine server at one of Canada's top restaurants.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/146.

145: Embarrassing Wine Moments, Oak as Ketchup & Powerful Stories Sep 08, 2021

Why are sugar and oak often the ketchup of the wine world, used to hide bad grapes or poor winemaking? How did researching my first book lead to my most embarrassing wine moment? What’s the problem with biodynamic and natural wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Paul K on the Wine Talks with Paul K podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How can you navigate the shelves at the wine store when every bottle has a 90+ score?

Why do I believe the individual experience is so important when it comes to wine?

Why do many celebrity-backed wines seem to perform poorly?

What flavours are often used to disguise low-quality wine?

How did researching my first book lead to my most embarrassing wine moment?

Why is storytelling so powerful?

What’s the problem with biodynamic and natural wines?

Why is food and wine pairing an important part of what we do as wine professionals?

About Paul Kalemkiarian

Paul Kalemkiarian is the host of the podcast Wine Talks with Paul K on which he interviews wine industry royalty as well as Michelin starred chefs. He’s also the owner of America’s oldest wine club, the Original Wine of the Month Club. His expertise in the wine industry spans over 30 years. His father invented the idea of wine in the mail in 1972 and they have been serving wine enthusiasts ever since.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/145.

144: Restaurant List Tips, Wine Courses & Buying Local Wines Sep 01, 2021

Why are restaurant wine lists often tricky to navigate, even for wine professionals? Is it worth pursuing wine certifications and courses? Wine is the most value-added agricultural product we produce so why are there so many barriers for these small farmers who try to sell their wines across the country?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Paul K on the Wine Talks with Paul K podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What was my winding journey to sommelier certification like?

What is it about wine that can feel so intimidating?

Why are restaurant wine lists often tricky, even for professionals?

How can you delicately navigate wine prices at restaurants?

Should you pursue wine certifications?

How can online wine classes help you become an expert on your own palette?

Is it okay to throw away wine?

How accessible are specialty wines in Canada?

How did COVID act as an accelerant in the Canadian wine market?

About Paul Kalemkiarian

Paul Kalemkiarian is the host of the podcast Wine Talks with Paul K on which he interviews wine industry royalty as well as Michelin starred chefs. He’s also the owner of America’s oldest wine club, the Original Wine of the Month Club. His expertise in the wine industry spans over 30 years. His father invented the idea of wine in the mail in 1972 and they have been serving wine enthusiasts ever since.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/144.

143: Luxury Wine Marketing, Dom Pérignon, Must-Have Gadgets with Robert Vernick & Peter Yeung Aug 25, 2021

What are the six key elements that define a luxury wine? What’ll surprise you about Dom Pérignon that makes it different from other luxury wines? Which two wine gadgets must you own as a wine lover?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung, co-hosts of the XChateau podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What are the six elements that define luxury wine?

Which luxury wines are on Robert’s bucket list?

What’s it like to have a wine tasting with the winemaker for Dom Pérignon?

How is Dom Pérignon Plénitude even more luxurious than standard vintages?

Which luxury wine would Peter give a score of 100 points?

How does aging on the lees impact a wine’s taste and texture?

What makes Dom Pérignon a distinctive luxury brand?

Who was Dom Pérignon?

What are the four categories of luxury wine buyers?

What’s Robert’s approach to buying and collecting luxury wine?

What does Peter love about the 2013 Oddero Barolo?

Why should you add RAEN wines to your must-try list?

How can you pair 2013 Oddero Barolo and RAEN Pinot Noir with food?

What are Peter and Robert’s favourite wine gadgets?

Key Takeaways

I found their discussion of the elements that make a wine a luxury brand fascinating, especially the psychological motives beyond simply drinking a fine wine.

It’s quite a feat for Dom Pérignon to produce 5 million bottles almost every year and still have consumers believe in its rarity and scarcity.

Brand stories are central no matter what you’re selling. People relate to people, not things. We remember the story of Dom Perignon even if we get some aspects of it confused like he tried to get the bubbles out of his wine, not in, though he was a master blender.

I’ve since purchased a box of Repour closures and I think they are making a difference. I also bought the Durand Corkscrew, though I have yet to use it - hoping for a dried-out cork soon.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, September 1st at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HIjNiuE7R-OexJCsmoPGrg. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a personally signed copy of Peter’s book, Luxury Wine Marketing published by Infinite Ideas in Oxford, U.K.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on my post on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on September 1st.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung

Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung co-host the XChateau podcast that features insights, analysis, and perspectives on news and trends in the wine industry beyond winemaking, such as marketing, finance, and consumer trends.

Robert is a noted wine blogger who holds the WSET Diploma. Peter is wine business consultant and the award-winning author of Luxury Wine Marketing published by Infinite Ideas in Oxford, U.K. He was named one of Wine Business Monthly's 2020 Wine Industry Leaders.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/143.

142: Learn About Wine via Podcasts, Books, Influencers with Robert Vernick & Peter Yeung Aug 18, 2021

How are podcasts a great way to learn about wine? Which wine books can jumpstart your education about wine and further it as you get more knowledgeable? What’s behind the backlash against wine influencers on social media?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung, co-hosts of the XChateau podcast.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What are Peter and Robert’s first memories of wine?
Which scent brings Peter back to his first memorable bottle of wine?
What made Robert’s first experience with an old Bordeaux wine memorable?
How did Peter and Robert get the inspiration to start the XChateau podcast?
Why were Peter and Robert drawn to podcasting in particular?
How did a sabbatical from management consulting help to start Peter’s wine career?
Which books made a big impact on Robert’s wine career?
What did Peter learn about inclusivity in the wine space from his favourite podcast guest, Ikimi Dubose?
How did Robert’s favourite guest, Maureen Downey, change his views on counterfeit wines?
How is Chai Consulting using cutting-edge technology to combat wine fraud?
What surprising facts did Peter and Robert learn about the Brazilian wine world?
What does it mean to be a wine influencer?
Why is there so much backlash from the traditional wine world against influencers/

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed their insights about how podcasts are a great way to learn about wine. Of course, I’m biased, but I think the depth of information you can get from a podcast is unparalleled compared to social media. Each episode can be like one of those condensed summary books for when you don’t have the time or interest to read the whole thing.
And finally, I thought they offered great insights as to what’s behind the backlash against wine influencers on social media. It really points to a changing of the guard in the wine industry, which in turn, affects how we learn about wine and new wines to drink.
That said, I think wine books can jumpstart your education about wine and further it as you get more knowledgeable. Again, I admit my own bias having published two of them. However, I liked their recommendations for your wine library.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, August 25th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lSLxIw_ESMKpn7AQFXBrhQ. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a personally signed copy of Peter’s book, Luxury Wine Marketing published by Infinite Ideas in Oxford, U.K.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on my post on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on August 18th.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung

Robert Vernick and Peter Yeung co-host the XChateau podcast that features insights, analysis, and perspectives on news and trends in the wine industry beyond winemaking, such as marketing, finance, and consumer trends.

Robert is a noted wine blogger who holds the WSET Diploma. Peter is wine business consultant and the award-winning author of Luxury Wine Marketing published by Infinite Ideas in Oxford, U.K. He was named one of Wine Business Monthly's 2020 Wine Industry Leaders.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/142.

141: Fruit Wine, Pet-Nat Bubbly & Slovenian Wines with Nikki Goddard Aug 11, 2021

Why are fruit wines becoming more popular and how do they differ from grape-based wines? What is Pét-Nat-style wine and which ones should you try? What are wines from Slovenia like, and which foods pair best with them?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine writer and educator, Nikki Goddard.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why are fruit wines becoming more popular?

Which incredible fruit wines should you try?

Why do these newer styles of wine attract lovers of other artisanal beverages?

What is Pét-Nat-style wine?

How does Nikki put a unique spin on colour descriptors for wines?

What’s it like to taste Kabaj Sivi Pinot?

Which foods pair especially well with Kabaj Sivi Pinot?

What do you need to know about Subject To Change "This is Not Wine"?

How did Questions of Taste influence Nikki’s wine career?

Why does Nikki love her RBT decanter?

Why does Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery hold special meaning for Nikki?

What unique way did Nikki permanently commemorate her love of wine?

Why does Nikki prefer Napa Cabernets from the 80s and 90s?

What was it like for Nikki to meet Jancis Robinson?

What are Nikki’s top tips for getting comfortable with wine?

Key Takeaways

Nikki gave us an excellent overview of why are fruit wines becoming more popular and how they differ from grape-based wines. She’s made me thirsty to seek these out more often.

I also thought she did a great job explaining the Pét-Nat-style bubbly and why it’s so trendy these days. Adding that to my list as well.

And finally, she sparked my interest in Slovenian wines. Even though I have tried several, and liked them immensely, I’m looking forward to drinking more of them and experimenting with food pairings.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, August 18th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xmiuNNKRSwm2xEsOaew6Sg. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You can win an exclusive online tasting with Nikki Goddard.

Of course, you can invite friends or family to attend. She'll select a theme that suits you and let you know which wines you can buy in advance.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on my post on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on August 18th.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Nikki Goddard

Nikki Goddard is a Bay Area wine writer and educator. With over 14 years of wine industry experience, Nikki has written for a wide range of companies and publications including JancisRobinson.com, Vivino, Delectable, Wine Folly, SommSelect, The Spruce Eats, Dry Farm Wines, Liquor.com, Foley Family Wines, Edible East Bay, Beverage Industry News, and more. She is certified through the Wine and Spirits Education Trust at the Diploma level and has taught courses for levels 2 and 3. Nikki worked for several years as a wine buyer and previously co-owned The Barrel Room, a wine bar in San Francisco.

Nikki fell in love with wine while studying Textiles and Apparel at Cornell University. Beguiled by the wines of the Finger Lakes and realizing that she had a greater affinity for the laid-back, epicurean lifestyle of an oenophile than for the cut-throat fashion industry, she decided to make wine her life’s career. The more Nikki shared her passion for wine with her friends, the more she became aware of a serious lack of approachable, engaging discussion around the subject—resulting in a lot of intimidation around what should be one of life's greatest pleasures. To make wine more accessible and fun for all, she has committed herself to bridging the gap between knowledge and enjoyment.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/141.

140: Good Wine Faults, DRC, Misleading Wine Experts with Nikki Goddard Aug 04, 2021

When can wine faults actually improve the taste of wine? Does learning about wine decrease your enjoyment of it? Can wine experts really distinguish between different types of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine writer and educator, Nikki Goddard.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did Nikki end up recommending a wine that was a little too close to home for a customer?

Which unusual query about palm wine did Nikki receive while working with wine.com?

Why should the infamous study showing that wine experts can’t distinguish between red and white wine be taken with a grain of salt?

What did Nikki learn from a blind tasting experiment she did with her non-expert friends?

Can learning about wine decrease your enjoyment of it?

What makes the wine world seem so intimidating?

When can wine faults actually improve the taste of wine?

Which lesser-known wine regions should you try to experience?

Key Takeaways

I like Nikki’s fresh take on how some wine faults may be desirable, and even improve the taste of a wine, or at least, be part of its character rather than a flaw.

I love her story about tasting Domaine de la Romanee-Conti as a way of showing how much our expectations and knowledge of wine influence our taste and perception of it.

I have to thank Nikki for finally debunking those super annoying studies that say wine experts are easily fooled when the methodology behind is as misleading as the clickbait headlines.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, August 11th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AifT0HiBS_inZ8L8NToJ3A. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You can win an exclusive online tasting with Nikki Goddard.

Of course, you can invite friends or family to attend. She'll select a theme that suits you and let you know which wines you can buy in advance.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on my post on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on August 18th.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

About Nikki Goddard

Nikki Goddard is a Bay Area wine writer and educator. With over 14 years of wine industry experience, Nikki has written for a wide range of companies and publications including JancisRobinson.com, Vivino, Delectable, Wine Folly, SommSelect, The Spruce Eats, Dry Farm Wines, Liquor.com, Foley Family Wines, Edible East Bay, Beverage Industry News, and more. She is certified through the Wine and Spirits Education Trust at the Diploma level and has taught courses for levels 2 and 3. Nikki worked for several years as a wine buyer and previously co-owned The Barrel Room, a wine bar in San Francisco.

Nikki fell in love with wine while studying Textiles and Apparel at Cornell University. Beguiled by the wines of the Finger Lakes and realizing that she had a greater affinity for the laid-back, epicurean lifestyle of an oenophile than for the cut-throat fashion industry, she decided to make wine her life’s career. The more Nikki shared her passion for wine with her friends, the more she became aware of a serious lack of approachable, engaging discussion around the subject—resulting in a lot of intimidation around what should be one of life's greatest pleasures. To make wine more accessible and fun for all, she has committed herself to bridging the gap between knowledge and enjoyment.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/140.

139: Wine Scores, Pairings and Writing with Master of Wine Vanessa Conlin Jul 28, 2021

Why did I resist scoring wines for the first three years I wrote about them? How do you go from submitting an article to a local publication to publishing your first book? Why aren't press trips to wine regions all they're cracked up to be?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Vanessa Conlin on the Wine Access Author Series.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did I go from writing an article for a local publication to publishing my first book?

Why do stories make such a great medium for you to learn about wine?

How did I get access to prestigious vineyards and wineries while researching my first book?

What’s it like to interview A-listers in the wine world like Robert Parker and Jancis Robinson?

How can you choose the right wine critic for you to follow?

What’s it like working undercover in a wine store and as a restaurant sommelier?

Which undercover moment transformed my understanding of service?

Which wine regions am I looking forward to experiencing?

Who are some of the most fun and interesting people I’ve interviewed so far?

Why do I avoid going on press trips?

What types of stories can you look forward to in my upcoming book?

Which tip can you use to find great bargain wines?

How can food and wine pairing help you to get more comfortable with wine?

Which food is the most difficult to pair with wine?

What type of wine is the easiest to pair with a wide range of foods?

Do you need to be an expert to enjoy wine?

About Vanessa Conlin MW

Vanessa Conlin MW is the Head of Wine for Wine Access, a national direct-to-consumer e-com wine retailer where she oversees all wine curation and wine content. Vanessa has served as the Director of Sales and Marketing for several of Napa’s most prestigious luxury estates including Arietta Wines and Dana Estates. Previously she was the wine buyer for two prominent Manhattan wine retailers and the Wine Director for a Manhattan-based wine bar. As an avid supporter of charitable causes, Vanessa is the President of the Board for Jameson Humane, a Napa Valley-based animal rescue and sanctuary, and has chaired the organization’s annual charity wine auction four times, raising over 7 million dollars. Prior to falling in love with wine, Vanessa worked as a professional musician, performing internationally and on Broadway, and holds a Master’s Degree in Music. She is an instructor for the Wine and Spirits Education Trust and was the recipient of the Niki Singer Memorial Scholarship from the International Wine Center. Vanessa became a Master of Wine in 2020.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/139.

138: How to Get the Most from Your Wine Bar Visit with Tanisha Townsend Jul 21, 2021

What's it like to explore Paris by visiting different wine bars? How do you know which company to choose for guided tours? What do you need to know before buying wine from a wine list, whether you’re at a restaurant or a wine bar?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Tanisha Townsend, Chief Wine Officer of lifestyle agency Girl Meets Glass.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What’s it like taking a wine tour in Paris?

How does Tanisha introduce her clients to hidden gems in Paris?

What do you need to know before buying wine from a restaurant wine list?

Why does Tanisha especially love the wines of the southern Rhône?

What key features should you look for when choosing a tour guide/company?

Which Paris-based TV shows and movies should you check out?

What makes wine bars the perfect avenue for exploring a new city?

How does the terroir impact the tasting profile of Jacques Lurton wines?

Which wine books does Tanisha recommend?

Key Takeaways

I love the idea of exploring Paris, or any city, by taking a walking tour of its wine bars. This allows you to sample so much more in terms of food, drink, neighbourhoods and conversation than committing to a three-hour restaurant meal.

I thought Tanisha’s tips on how to choose a company to choose for guided tours were excellent. You want someone who can show you the hidden gems off the tourist track, the haunts that you wouldn’t discover for yourself.

She also had great advice on how to choose from a wine list, whether you’re at a restaurant or a wine bar, as well as pairing French wines with food.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, July 28th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JrowE0owTjSiFfnZdQYORQ.. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

About Tanisha Townsend

Tanisha Townsend is Chief Wine Officer of lifestyle agency Girl Meets Glass. She leads wine classes and tours in Paris as well as online. She also hosts the podcast, Wine School Dropout. Her goal is to empower people with an advanced knowledge of wine and spirits to build confidence in their tastes and make choices when buying wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/138.

137: Paris for Wine Lovers with Tanisha Townsend Part 1 Jul 14, 2021

What's it like to uproot your life in North America and move to Paris? What’s the connection between forensic science and wine? What influence has hip-hop music had on wine culture?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Tanisha Townsend, Chief Wine Officer of lifestyle agency Girl Meets Glass.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Is milk a good alternative to wine?

How did a trip to Burgundy change Tanisha’s life?

What’s one thing Tanisha would do differently in her early career if she could go back?

How did Tanisha gain her confidence as a wine professional?

What about Tanisha’s background in computer forensics connected her to wine?

What role are NFTs playing in the wine world?

Why did Tanisha decide to uproot her life and move to Paris?

What’s it like teaching French people about wine as an American woman?

How has hip-hop music influenced the world of wine?

What culture shifts did Tanisha have to adjust to with life in Paris?

Key Takeaways

I loved listening to Tanisha’s story about uprooting her life in the US and moving to Paris. I think it’s a dream many of us have. She had such confidence and boldness though to make the move.

I’m fascinated with the connection between forensic science and wine, and particularly how the new non-fungible tokens will soon play a role in detecting wine fraud. We’ll have to dive into that in more depth in a future episode.

I thought Tanisha had great insights on the influence that hip-hop music has had on wine culture, particularly when it comes to celebrity wines.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, July 21st at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

About Tanisha Townsend

Tanisha Townsend is Chief Wine Officer of lifestyle agency Girl Meets Glass. She leads wine classes and tours in Paris as well as online. She also hosts the podcast, Wine School Dropout. Her goal is to empower people with an advanced knowledge of wine and spirits to build confidence in their tastes and make choices when buying wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/137.

136: Behind the Scenes of a Travel and Wine Writer's Life with Celine Bossart Jul 07, 2021

What would it be like to visit the most gorgeous wine regions around the world, and get paid to do it? How does the fast-paced schedule of a wine and travel writer impact physical and mental health? How can you pair sweet desserts with wine? What specific impact does sweetness in food have on wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with New York wine and spirits journalist, Céline Bossart.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What’s it like to visit exciting new destinations around the world on press trips?

How does the fast-paced schedule of a wine and travel writer impact your physical and mental health?

What was Céline’s best wine-related travel experience?

How can you improve your wine tasting skills?

What rule of thumb should you keep in mind when it comes to wine advice?

How can you pair sweet desserts with wine?

Why does Céline like to play around with liqueurs?

What would Céline be doing if she wasn’t in the wine and spirits industry?

Key Takeaways

I loved listening to Céline's stories about traveling to the most gorgeous wine regions around the world. She was so open both about the perks and the challenges of her life, particularly when it comes to physical and mental health.

She had some great tips on pairing desserts with wine, based on the drying effect that sweetness in food has on wine.

I also enjoyed her tasting tips including not making swirling wine a full-bodied motion.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, July 14th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

About Céline Bossart

Céline Bossart is a New York-based freelance writer, editor, photographer, and digital media specialist in the wine and spirits spaces, and particularly their socio-political dynamics. She’s been published in Eater, Wine Enthusiast, Billboard, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country, and many more. In her spare time, Céline enjoys drinking wine and binge-watching true crime shows.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/136.

135: Wines from Jon Bon Jovi, Jay-Z, Kendall Jenner with Celine Bossart Jun 30, 2021

Are you curious what it would be like to have lavish dinners and wine tastings with rockstars like Jon Bon Jovi and Fergie? How does music impact your perception of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with New York wine and spirits journalist, Céline Bossart.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why was Céline at an impromptu wine dinner with Jon Bon Jovi

How do celebrity/winemaker partnerships work?

What socio-political issues were highlighted with Kendall Jenner’s tequila endorsement?

What can we learn from Mario Lopez’s agave spirit endorsement?

Why was Céline’s interview with Fergie one of her all-time favourites?

What is the connection between music and wine?

How did Céline end up cycling around vineyards in platform boots?

How did New Zealand wine bring Céline to an awesome superyacht experience?

Key Takeaways

No matter which celebrity endorses a wine, it’s the winemaker who makes it that matters most. I agree that the person or winery producing the wine should be on the label as well. In some cases like the Miraval brand from southern France, the celebs formerly behind the wine, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie aren’t on the label, but rather the much respected Perrin brothers are.

I loved listening to Celine’s stories about meeting Jon Bon Jovi and Fergie. It’s nice to know that they’re decent people too.

I’m fascinated with the impact music has on our perception and taste of wine. I plan to explore that more in future episodes.

About Céline Bossart

Céline Bossart is a New York-based freelance writer, editor, photographer, and digital media specialist in the wine and spirits spaces, and particularly their socio-political dynamics. She’s been published in Eater, Wine Enthusiast, Billboard, Harper’s Bazaar, Town & Country, and many more. In her spare time, Céline enjoys drinking wine and binge-watching true crime shows.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, July 7th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/135.

134: Online Courses, Canadian Wine & Weird Pairings with Susie Barrie Jun 23, 2021

What’s my advice for those considering a wine career? How did my biggest career regret happen before I became a wine writer? How has my father’s alcoholism influenced my relationship with wine? How has the pandemic impacted online wine classes? Can you pair ketchup chips with wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm sharing my interview on the Wine Blast podcast with Susie Barrie & Peter Richards.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why does Rhône Syrah hold a special place in my memories?

What’s my advice for people considering a wine career?

How did my biggest career regret happen before I became a wine writer?

When was the first major turning point of my career?

What do you need to know about the Canadian wine industry?

How is global warming affecting Canadian wine producers?

Which types of Canadian wines should you try first?

What should you expect from Canadian Rieslings?

When did wine find its way into my life?

How has my father’s alcoholism influenced my relationship with wine?

How has the pandemic impacted online wine classes?

What makes food and wine pairing so exciting?

What’s my top tip for getting started with food and wine pairing?

Can you pair ketchup chips with wine?

How do you pair wine with your favourite activities?

Why did I create the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast?

What can you expect from my upcoming third book?

How can you start getting more comfortable with wine?

About Susie Barrie and Peter Richards Susie and Peter are Masters of Wine who happen to be married to each other. It’s a strange old household, with a constant soundtrack of clinking bottles and glasses. As TV and radio presenters, event hosts, writers, podcasters, authors and consultants, the pair are renowned for their enthusiastic, thoughtful and articulate style, having been described as, ‘Legends: best in the business’ and ‘What a double act: two stars making a killer constellation.’

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/134.

133: Weird Wine & Food Pairings that Work with the Vine Guy Jun 16, 2021

Which weird food and wine pairings should you add to your must-try list? What makes wines from Oregon and California’s Sierra Foothills special? How can you make sure to do well at a wine auction?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Scott Greenberg, host of both “The Vine Guy” podcast and the “Wine of the Week” show on WTOP radio in Washington, DC.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What’s Scott’s go-to wine for pairing with lamb?
Why are foie gras and Sauterne such a classic pairing?
Which surprising and delicious Madeira pairing does Scott recommend?
How did Scott end up almost trespassing on Domaine Romanée Conti?
What did Scott find out on a hilarious cruise ship encounter?
What distinguishing characteristics do you find in wines from the Sierra Foothills region?
What do you need to know before entering a wine auction?
Which aspects of Oregon Pinot Noir make it stand out among the best?
Who has the pandemic inspired Scott to share a bottle of wine with?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed the unusual food and wine pairings Scott suggested, and I can’t wait to try several of them.
I liked the way Scott differentiated the Pinot Noir from Oregon as well as reds from California’s Sierra Foothills. He also reminds me of the versatility of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.
His tips on how to prepare for a wine auction are terrific.

About Scott Greenberg

Scott Greenberg, also known as “The Vine Guy”, is the host of the “Wine of the Week” show on WTOP radio in Washington, DC and the Vine Guy Podcast. Scott started his career in wine journalism as the syndicated wine columnist for the Washington Journal Newspaper and continues to contribute to Tasting Panel Magazine.

He’s also hosted numerous wine tastings, judged wine competitions and has taught a course on North American Wineries for the Smithsonian Associates program in Washington. Scott is To Kalon Vineyard Specialist and Italian Wine Scholar. He recently relocated from Maryland to Park City, Utah, where he lives with his wife, Cindy, and a rescue dog named Frankie.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, June 23rd at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zp-oZCKLRO27bZ-lrr5Z1A. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/133.

132: Mature Champagne + Tasting with Robert Parker with Scott Greenberg Jun 09, 2021

What's it like tasting wines with the legendary wine critic Robert Parker? How does food take wine to the next level? What's it like to have dinner with celebrities of the wine world?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine journalist and host of the Vine Guy Podcast, Scott Greenberg.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did a glass of wine at a dinner party change Scott’s life?

What have been the top highlights of Scott’s wine career so far?

How did a surprising phone call lead to Scott partnering up with Robert Parker?

What is Robert Parker’s unique wine tasting process like?

Where did the Vine Guy moniker come from?

How did an old bottle of Champagne open Scott’s eyes to a whole new world of wine?

What differences in taste would you experience in old versus young Champagne?

In what ways has wine played a central role for Scott in meeting several fascinating friends?

How did Scott’s radio voice get him the opportunity to meet French winemaker Christian Moueix?

Why does Scott especially love food and wine pairing?

Key Takeaways

Most of us remember a pivotal wine that changed our lives and drinking habits. I enjoyed hearing about Scott’s aha wine at a dinner party.

I also liked Scott’s story about tasting with the legendary Robert Parker and a sneak peek at that critic’s unique tasting process.

Mature Champagne is a treat worth trying if you haven’t yet.

About Scott Greenberg

Scott Greenberg, also known as “The Vine Guy”, is the host of the “Wine of the Week” show on WTOP radio in Washington, DC and the Vine Guy Podcast. Scott started his career in wine journalism as the syndicated wine columnist for the Washington Journal Newspaper and continues to contribute to Tasting Panel Magazine.

He’s also hosted numerous wine tastings, judged wine competitions and has taught a course on North American Wineries for the Smithsonian Associates program in Washington. Scott is To Kalon Vineyard Specialist and Italian Wine Scholar. He recently relocated from Maryland to Park City, Utah, where he lives with his wife, Cindy, and a rescue dog named Frankie.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, June 16th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/132.

131: Salt in Wine, Oyster Pairings + Real Talk with Your Sommelier Jun 02, 2021

Is food and wine pairing the ultimate goal of every dining experience? Is it okay to tell sommeliers if you don’t like the wine they recommended? What’s it like serving famous captains of industry like Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Seattle-based wine writer, educator and sommelier, Zach Geballe.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How can sommeliers help patrons feel comfortable talking about wine?

Is successful wine pairing the ultimate goal of every dining experience?

Should you tell the sommelier if you don’t like the wine they recommended?

What’s it like serving famous captains of industry like Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates?

How did Zach get started with his private wine classes?

Which characteristics should you look for in a wine to pair with oysters?

What does saltiness mean as a wine descriptor?

What unique wedding ritual did Zach and his wife partake in instead of traditional cake?

Which unusual wines did Zach select for an Amazon event he led?

How did a trip to Moselle vineyards surpass Zach’s high expectations?

What surprised Zach when visiting Parmesan producers in Italy?

Key Takeaways

I thought Zach’s tips on pairing crisp, mineraly wines with oysters were spot on, and he should know coming from Seattle where oysters are popular and so very fresh.

I agree with Zach that food and wine pairing doesn’t have to be the ultimate goal of every dining experience. Sometimes, you just want to enjoy a wine that you love and a dish that’s your favourite, and the two don’t necessarily go together. My suggestion, take a bit from a bun in between and relax.

I was glad to hear Zach say that it’s perfectly fine to tell sommeliers if you don’t like the wine they recommended. They’ve got a personal stake in your enjoying your wine and meal and coming back again.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, June 9th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

About Zach Geballe

Zach Geballe is a Seattle-based journalist and educator focused on the beverage alcohol industry. He is the co-host and producer of the VinePair podcast as well as the founder of Disgorged Wine, a wine education and events company in Seattle. He is a Certified Sommelier and has over 15 years of restaurant industry experience, most recently as the wine director for Tom Douglas Restaurants in Seattle, Washington.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/131.

130: Restaurant Wine Lists Post-Pandemic with Vinepair's Zach Geballe Part 1 May 26, 2021

What was it like being a sommelier at one of Seattle’s most prestigious restaurants as the pandemic started to unfold? How have restaurants and wine lists changed to re-emerge in a post-pandemic world? How are sommeliers pivoting in the wake of the pandemic?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Zach Geballe, co-host and producer of the VinePair podcast as well as the founder of Disgorged Wine.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why was Zach fascinated with restaurants and food as a child?
What was Zach’s experience with Seattle’s Dahlia Lounge?
How does Zach see restaurants and wine lists changing in a post-pandemic world?
Which types of restaurant customers does Zach expect to decline because of the pandemic?
When did Zach first realize that it wouldn’t be business as usual for 2020?
How did Zach combine his twin loves of journalism and the restaurant industry?
How did the Disgorged and Vinepair podcasts get started?
Why has Zach’s multi-passionate nature been especially important in the past year?
How are sommeliers pivoting in the wake of the pandemic?
Why are wine jobs often the first to go in hard times?

Key Takeaways

I also agree that we’ll see far fewer restaurants in the downtown cores and big cities that relied heavily on customers from business travel. I wonder what eateries will replace them, if any?
I agree with Zach that counter-service is going to be a big part of the post-pandemic dining landscape. And maybe that’s the answer for the downtown cores.
While this will help keep wine prices more reasonable and more restaurants above water financially, I’m concerned about what that means not only for servers and other staff, but also for sommeliers. Will we lose many of these experts who can help us discover so many terrific, new wines and new pairings? I hope that they’ll be able to pivot to new jobs in the hospitality world.

About Zach Geballe

Zach Geballe is a Seattle-based journalist and educator focused on the beverage alcohol industry. He is the co-host and producer of the VinePair podcast as well as the founder of Disgorged Wine, a wine education and events company in Seattle. He is a Certified Sommelier and has over 15 years of restaurant industry experience, most recently as the wine director for Tom Douglas Restaurants in Seattle, Washington.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, June 2nd at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/130.

129: Champagne Widows + Are Expensive Wines Worth It? May 19, 2021

Are wines that cost hundreds of dollars per bottle ever worth the price? Does deepening your understanding of wine increase your enjoyment of wine? Who were the young widows who built the famous Champagne houses into top luxury brands? How can you use the butter/lemon test to help with food and wine pairing?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm sharing part two of my interview on the All About Wine podcast with Ron Hunt.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Are high-end wines like Domaine Romanée-Conti worth their price?
When is it worth it to go for the $30 bottle of wine instead of the $500 bottle?
How does deepening your understanding of wine improve your experience?
How can you use the butter/lemon test to help with food and wine pairing?
What fascinating stories are behind the Merry Widows of Mousse?
How did I develop my interviewing skills?
Why is storytelling so important?
Why do I embrace the enthusiastic amateur mindset?

About All About Wine and Ron Hunt

All About Wine is a weekly call-in talk show dedicated to the wine industry that's been on the air since 2009. Host Ron Hunt brings his experience and knowledge as a winemaker, cellar master, and vineyardist and tasting expert to the airwaves with special guests from around the world. Always informative and entertaining...it's All About Wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/129.

128: All About Wine Stories with Ron Hunt Part 1 May 12, 2021

What is it about wine that makes it part of many TV shows and movies? How does approaching wine through food make it so much more accessible? What adventures did I go on as a part of writing my books? Why are origin stories so important when it comes to wine? What’s one rule of thumb you can use to find great value wines that taste expensive?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm sharing my interview on the All About Wine podcast with Ron Hunt.

You can find the wines we discussed at https://www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What is it about wine that makes it so popular in the media and pop culture?

Why does Ron say my mobile wine app is a must-have for your phone?

How did Unreserved Wine Talk end up on a list of top podcasts of 2020?

How do I select guests for Unreserved Wine Talk?

Why are origin stories so important?

Why does approaching wine through food make it so much more accessible?

How can you benefit from online wine classes?

What do wine lovers want more of as we go through this pandemic?

Why should you experiment with wine?

What type of journey can you share through reading Red, White, and Drunk All Over?

How did I approach writing Unquenchable to help readers with the process of buying wine?

What’s one rule of thumb you can use to find value wines that taste expensive?

Why did I start my book’s adventures at Domaine Romanée-Conti?

About All About Wine and Ron Hunt

All About Wine is a weekly call-in talk show dedicated to the wine industry that's been on the air since 2009. Host Ron Hunt brings his experience and knowledge as a winemaker, cellar master, and vineyardist and tasting expert to the airwaves with special guests from around the world. Always informative and entertaining...it's All About Wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/128.

127: Wine Influencers + Drinking Too Much? Part 2 with Devin Parr May 05, 2021

What makes someone a wine influencer? Why is there so much uproar in the wine industry about celebrity wines and influencers? How did heavy drinking become such an entrenched part of the wine industry? Do you sometimes feel you drink too much wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Devin Parr, Founder and Managing Partner of Devin Parr & Associates.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What makes someone a wine influencer?
Why is there such frustration towards wine influencers from the traditional wine community?
How can we bring a sense of inclusion to the wine community?
What would Devin like to see from wine influencers?
How can wine brands improve their relationships with influencers?
Why is awareness such a critical part of marketing?
Do we drink too much in the wine business?
What's it like doing wine press tours?
How did such a heavy drinking culture develop as “the way we do business”?
What is Devin’s opinion on mommy wine memes?

Key Takeaways

I agree with Devin that an influencer is anyone who actually influences opinion on wine, not just those with official certifications. There’s a role for many voices, particularly in the wine industry.
She makes such a great point: we don't drink wine in a vacuum. Wine is part of our broader lifestyle. I just wish more media trips would incorporate that … it’s why I stopped going on them altogether.
And yes there have been times when I know I’ve consumed too much wine, though usually, this has been at home not at an industry event, thank goodness. But I think it’s something the wine industry needs to address more openly as do we all who love wine and want to keep it a part of our lives.

About Devin Parr

Devin Parr is the Founder and Managing Partner of Devin Parr & Associates, a PR, marketing and content agency for the beverage, travel, and tourism space. She holds a level 3 WSET certificate and in 2017, was named one of Wine Enthusiast Magazine's Top 40 Under 40 Tastemakers. She's written for Bottlenotes, WineCountry.com, NapaValley.com, Sonoma.com, The Plum, The Gourmet Insider, and others, including her own popular blog. Devin earned her B.A. in Political Science and Economics at UC San Diego and she joins us now from her home in Southern California.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, May 5th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You can also win one of two tickets to an exclusive virtual wine tasting led by Devin Parr that also includes two bottles of premium California wines that’ll be shipped directly to your home.

These tickets are priced at $135 each and enable up to 6 participants per household to participate. We’ll be giving away two tickets, one to each of two different winners.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of these posts before 7 pm EDT on May 5th:

Instagram

Facebook

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/127.

126: Cameron Diaz's Clean Wine + Wellness & Wine with Devin Parr Part 1 Apr 28, 2021

How did Cameron Diaz’s new clean wine brand cause an uproar in the wine world? Where does wine fit into the wellness world? Which low alcohol and alcohol-free wines are worth trying? Should wine labels have ingredient lists?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Devin Parr, Founder and Managing Partner of Devin Parr & Associates.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did a wine sales call end with Devin being mistaken for an FBI agent?
Why did an embarrassing conversation with a customer renew Devin’s interest in geography?
Why should you be fearless when tasting and talking about wine?
What incredible experiences did Devin have while studying wine in Italy?
How did Bill Buford inspire Devin to move to Italy?
What is clean wine?
How did Cameron Diaz’s wine brand cause an uproar in the wine world?
How has the wine industry unwittingly given marketers an advantage?
Where does wine fit into the wellness world?
Which low alcohol and alcohol-free wines are worth trying?
Should wine labels have ingredient lists?
Why is the traditional wine industry so resistant to non-expert consumer opinions?

Key Takeaways

I enjoyed Devin’s take on clean wine, and why Cameron Diaz’s new brand caused such an uproar in the wine world. I think a definition would help, but that’s probably difficult to do given how the definitions of organic and biodynamic wines differ so greatly.
I think wine can fit with wellness and a blanched life, without becoming a gimmicky or misguided marketing tactic that positions it as some sort of health drink.
I’m going to search for the low alcohol and alcohol-free wines that Devin thinks are worth trying.
I think wines should be more transparent about ingredients, using a QR code on the label that can be scanned to more details on the winery’s website so that this can change from year to year and not become so burdensome on the winery with packaging changes every vintage.

About Devin Parr

Devin Parr is the Founder and Managing Partner of Devin Parr & Associates, a PR, marketing and content agency for the beverage, travel, and tourism space. She holds a level 3 WSET certificate and in 2017, was named one of Wine Enthusiast Magazine's Top 40 Under 40 Tastemakers. She's written for Bottlenotes, WineCountry.com, NapaValley.com, Sonoma.com, The Plum, The Gourmet Insider, and others, including her own popular blog. Devin earned her B.A. in Political Science and Economics at UC San Diego and she joins us now from her home in Southern California.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, April 28th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You can also win one of two tickets to an exclusive virtual wine tasting led by Devin Parr that also includes two bottles of premium California wines that’ll be shipped directly to your home.

These tickets are priced at $135 each and enable up to 6 participants per household to participate. We’ll be giving away two tickets, one to each of two different winners.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of my giveaway posts on either Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn before 7 pm EDT on May 5th.

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/126.

125: Inflated Wine Scores, Inside Tasting Tips with Paul K - Part 2 Apr 21, 2021

Have wine scores gotten out of control, with higher numbers across the board? Are we oversimplifying wine when we talk and write about it? Is it possible to determine your wine taste by taking an online quiz that asks you about coffee, tea and other things you consume? And should you trust the algorithm that recommends wine to you based on your quiz results?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Paul K, host of the podcast Wine Talks with Paul K.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What was Paul surprised to learn about Sideways from his interview with Rex Pickett?
How did President Eisenhower inspire Paul’s father’s love for wine?
How was Paul’s family connected to The Paris Wine Tasting of 1976?
What led Paul’s father to the innovative idea to send wine through the mail?
Why did Paul decide to join the family business?
Which 15th-century piece of art inspired the Original Wine Club of the Month logo?
How does Paul score wine differently?
What type of conversations does Paul have on his podcast?
Why shouldn’t you use online quizzes to select your wines?
What do you miss by relying on algorithms to choose wine for you?
How did Paul become fascinated with Burgundy wines?
Why are grapes and wine deeply expressive of where they’re from?
Which wine gadgets does Paul use and love?
What should you be aware of when using a Coravin?
Which wine gadgets should you be wary of?
Why does Paul believe you shouldn’t try to simplify wine?

Key Takeaways

Paul’s right that wine scores have got out of hand, with grade inflation across the board. I like the way he approaches tasting wines - it’s much more grounded for wine drinkers, especially when he factors in the price of the wine.
I agree with Paul that there’s something so ethereal, so magical about the grape, among all agricultural products, that it does take you home, that can say this is who we are.
To that end, I think there’s been an oversimplification of wine, as he says. It’s worth learning about. We don’t need to make it intimidating, but we do need to acknowledge its wonderful complexity and diversity.

About Paul Kalemkiarian

Paul Kalemkiarian is the host of the podcast Wine Talks with Paul K on which he interviews wine industry royalty as well as Michelin starred chefs. He’s also the owner of America’s oldest wine club, the Original Wine of the Month Club. His expertise in the wine industry spans over 30 years. His father invented the idea of wine in the mail in 1972 and they have been serving wine enthusiasts ever since.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, April 21st at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a personally signed copy of Rex Pickett’s novel, Sideways, which was also made into a hit movie, as well as a bottle of Sideways Pinot Noir.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of these posts before 7 pm EDT on April 21st:

Instagram

Facebook

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/125.

124: Wine Clubs, Wine Finds & Tasting Tips with Paul K - Part 1 Apr 14, 2021

Which wine regions, grapes and styles are under-valued and worth trying? Should you be skeptical about celebrity-endorsed wines? How do you choose a good wine club? What simple strategy can you use to improve your tasting vocabulary?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Paul K, host of the podcast Wine Talks with Paul K.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did an encounter with sulphur dioxide trigger the worst moment of Paul’s career?
What’s the most exciting part of being in the wine business?
Why is your local wine shop your best bet for getting out of a wine rut?
How has Paul been able to blend his creative side with his wine business?
Which bottles of wine did Paul recently sell for a whopping $13,000?
Why does Paul mostly focus on affordable wines?
What’s Paul’s system for tasting and scoring wines?
How do you choose a good wine club?
What might surprise you about wineries and estate bottling?
Which simple tips does Paul have for developing your tasting vocabulary?
Why should the Canary Islands be on your radar?
How does volcanic soil impact wine?
How has COVID dramatically changed the wine business?
What has changed over the years about celebrity wines?
Why was Paul disappointed by an SNL-branded wine?
Which undervalued regions should you check out next?
How do Georgian and Armenian wines differ?
What’s Paul’s take on organic and biodynamic wines?

Key Takeaways

Paul offered some great tips on how to choose a wine club, as well as a good local wine retailer. Both can help you with the curation process and get to know your palate.
I agree with Paul on how to develop your wine vocabulary - smell and taste everything, well almost everything.
It’s interesting to hear how COVID has dramatically changed the wine business, from the volume of business done online now to the popular styles, regions and price points. I also liked his suggestions for undervalued regions and vintages.

About Paul Kalemkiarian

Paul Kalemkiarian is the host of the podcast Wine Talks with Paul K on which he interviews wine industry royalty as well as Michelin starred chefs. He’s also the owner of America’s oldest wine club, the Original Wine of the Month Club. His expertise in the wine industry spans over 30 years. His father invented the idea of wine in the mail in 1972 and they have been serving wine enthusiasts ever since.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, April 14th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here. I’ll be jumping into the comments as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

One of you is going to win a personally signed copy of Rex Pickett’s novel, Sideways, which was also made into a hit movie, as well as a bottle of Sideways Pinot Noir.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of these posts before 7 pm EDT on April 21st:

Instagram

Facebook

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/124.

123: Wine, Politics and Diplomatic Entertaining with Washington Post Publisher, Fred Ryan - Part 2 Apr 07, 2021

Only one president made his own wine and it wasn’t Thomas Jefferson. So who was it? How did Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ love of France shape White House menus? Which famous California winemaker attended a White House celebration and as a result had a falling out with his brother and started his own winery? What would surprise you about what’s in the White House wine cellar?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Fred Ryan, publisher and CEO of the Washington Post and author of Wine and The White House.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ love of France shape White House menus?
What influence did James Bond have on the wine served at one of JFK’s state dinners?
How did Bill Clinton tie James Bond into his speech at an official dinner?
What’s the story behind Jimmy Carter’s Toast of Insults?
Which enduring change did Jimmy Carter bring to presidential toasts?
Who did JFK one-up with Chateau Mouton Rothschild 1953?
How did a White House event play a key role in the launch of Robert Mondavi’s winery?
Which wine was served by Gerald Ford for the Queen’s visit at the US bicentennial?
What does it mean to “pull a Nixon”?
Did any presidents make their own wine?
How did Ronald Reagan become so knowledgeable about wine?
What role did wine play in Ronald Reagan’s celebrations?
Which bottle of wine has Fred been saving for a special occasion?
What diplomatic wine solution did Ronald Reagan find for Jacques Chirac’s 1987 visit to the White House?
What influence did Michelle Obama have on wines served at the White House?
What has Fred learned in his new research on Joe Biden’s toasts?
How did Ben Franklin pave the way for Thomas Jefferson’s exploration of French wines?
What might surprise you about the White House wine cellar?
How did Ronald Reagan influence guests’ wine choices?

Key Takeaways

I was surprised at just how small the White House wine cellar is. I had imagined it would be on the same scale of French president or the Queen’s with thousands of bottles.
I love the story about how the White House gala played a key role in the launch of the Robert Mondavi winery.
I’ve long admired the fashion sense of Jackie Kennedy Onassis, especially her love of French haute couture including those iconic Chanel suits and pearls. It’s interesting how her style also shaped White House menus and wine choices.
I enjoyed the stories about famous toasts, including Jimmy Carter’s Toast of Insults to more diplomatic versions from Bill Clinton Ronald Regan and Joe Biden.

About Fred Ryan

Frederick J. Ryan, Jr., publisher and CEO of the Washington Post, has been an aficionado of both wine and White House history for most of his life. Growing up in Italy and California, he developed an early interest in wine and its production, studied winemaking and its history, and now participates in a joint winemaking venture in Napa Valley. Ryan’s fascination with wine parallels his lifelong interest in the American presidency. He served in a senior staff position in the Ronald Reagan White House and as Reagan’s post-presidential chief of staff. Ryan currently serves as chair of the Board of Directors of the White House Historical Association, of the Board of Trustees of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, and of the Wine Committee of the Metropolitan Club of Washington, D.C.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Zoom on Wednesday, April 7th at 7 pm eastern.

You can save your spot for free right here.

I'll also be live-streaming this chat on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video. I’ll be jumping into the comments on all four platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

One of you will win a personally signed copy of Fred's gorgeous, new book Wine and The White House.

How to Win

All you need to do is comment on one of these posts before 7 pm EDT on April 7th:

Instagram

Facebook

I’ll select the winner randomly from those who participate. You get a bonus entry for every wine-loving friend you tag and if you re-share this post in your stories.

Good luck!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/123.

122: Wine, the White House & Presidential Pours with Washington Post Publisher, Fred Ryan Part 1 Mar 31, 2021

Are you curious about how wine has played an essential role in politics? How did a bottle with Thomas Jefferson's initials become the center of a wine scandal in 1985? What does pulling a Nixon mean? Which wine connected John F. Kennedy and James Bond?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Fred Ryan, publisher and CEO of the Washington Post and author of Wine and The White House.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did Fred develop his fascination with presidential politics?
When did Fred start to become interested in the world of wine?
What role does wine play in politics?
What’s the story behind Thomas Jefferson’s famous quote, “No nation is drunk when wine is freely available”?
How did Thomas Jefferson revolutionize the American wine scene?
Where in Bordeaux did Fred find a presidential wine request?
How was Thomas Jefferson ahead of the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855?
What insider elements did Fred include on the cover of Wine and The White House?
What can we learn about wine in the White House from Thomas Jefferson’s meticulous records?
Why was an FBI forensic team called in to investigate a bottle of Château Lafite wine?
How did wine help to break up the drunken free-for-all that was Andrew Jackson’s inauguration?
How did First Lady Lucy Hayes earn the nickname Lemonade Lucy?
Why did Woodrow Wilson have to seek special approval to take his wines to his new home after leaving the White House?
What instructions were the White House wait staff given for Winston Churchill’s visit?
What was the US attitude towards wine after Prohibition ended?
Which wine-filled events stood out in Roosevelt’s time in the White House?
What happened to the wine in the White House cellar when it burned down?

Key Takeaways

I loved how Fred’s stories illuminated how important a role wine has played in US and global politics, from diplomatic dinners and trade disputes.
I also liked how handling wine revealed the personalities of the presidents, from pulling a Nixon to Regan birthday celebrations.
The history of the US is also revealed through the stories about Jefferson and other early presidents.
And the story about the forensic scientists involved in discovering the fake Jefferson bottle is worthy of a CSI episode.

About Fred Ryan

Frederick J. Ryan, Jr., publisher and CEO of the Washington Post, has been an aficionado of both wine and White House history for most of his life. Growing up in Italy and California, he developed an early interest in wine and its production, studied winemaking and its history, and now participates in a joint winemaking venture in Napa Valley. Ryan’s fascination with wine parallels his lifelong interest in the American presidency. He served in a senior staff position in the Ronald Reagan White House and as Reagan’s post-presidential chief of staff. Ryan currently serves as chair of the Board of Directors of the White House Historical Association, of the Board of Trustees of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, and of the Wine Committee of the Metropolitan Club of Washington, D.C.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video on Wednesday, April 7th at 7 pm eastern.

Click on the "Interested" or "Going" buttons below so that you'll be notified when we go live:

https://www.facebook.com/events/882152032606638

I’ll be jumping into the comments on all three platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

One of you will win a personally signed copy of Fred's gorgeous, new book Wine and The White House.

How to Win

All you have to do is just pick your favourite social media channel -- Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn -- tag us and post a wine you love before April 7th. Make sure to use these handles and hashtags:

Instagram - @NatalieMacLeanWine
Twitter - @NataliemMacLean
Facebook - @NatDecants

Hashtags:

#natdecants

I’ll select the winner from those of you who participate before April 7th. I’ll also reshare your stories and posts with my followers whether you win or not so that you connect with more wine lovers.

Good luck, and I can't wait to see (and share) what you post!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/122.

121: Online Wine Classes Bring the Future Forward with VinePair's Zach Geballe Mar 24, 2021

Where do the worlds of wine and high tech collide? Why has the wine industry been so slow to embrace digital offerings? Should you join an online wine class? Are online wine events here to stay in a post-pandemic world?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm sharing my interview on VinePair Podcast with Zach Geballe.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

When did I start bringing my love for wine and tech together?

How did my high-tech job give me an opportunity to explore Napa and Sonoma Valley?

Is wine a part of the high-tech work culture?

How has the pandemic forced the wine industry to embrace the internet and digital platforms?

What was the state of wine education pre-COVID?

Can you truly engage the senses and have a full experience with online wine classes?

What are the advantages of online wine classes?

What benefits could you experience from an online class over face-to-face?

Is there a community aspect to online wine classes?

Are online wine classes here to stay for the long-term?

Why should brands and wineries include an online aspect in their offerings?

Should you take an online wine class?

What’s behind my belief in moderation through appreciation?

Which wines have I been loving lately?

About Zach Geballe and VinePair

Zach Geballe is a wine writer and educator based in Seattle. He is a podcast host/producer for VinePair Podcast and the founder/wine educator for Disgorged Wine.

VinePair Podcast is hosted by VinePair co-founder Adam Teeter and sommelier and wine educator Zach Geballe. They discuss the latest news, trends, and happenings in the world of wine, beer, and spirits each week.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/121.

120: Best Ways to Learn About Wine? Vanessa Conlin MW & Amanda McCrossin Part 2 Mar 17, 2021

Are trends like orange wine and natural wine here to stay? What are the benefits of joining a wine club? How do you get out of a wine rut? Have consumer wine choices changed during the pandemic?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amanda McCrossin & Vanessa Conlin of the Wine Access Unfiltered Podcast for part 2 of our two-part conversation.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why did Vanessa decide to pursue her MW qualification?
What are the main differences between the MW and Master Sommelier qualifications?
Why doesn’t Amanda think the orange wine trend is here to stay in the US?
Why is there so much confusion for consumers when it comes to natural wines?
How does Vanessa identify natural wines?
Have consumer wine choices changed during the pandemic?
What was the most expensive wine Amanda has ever sold?
Why does Amanda have a special interest in unusual varieties of wine from the 1950s and 1960s?
Where can you start when you want to try something new?
What’s the experience like as a member of the Wine Access Wine Club?
Does it matter where you buy your wine?
Why did Vanessa do a tasting of high-altitude wines?
Which type of wine glass does Amanda recommend for California wines?
How is Wine Access working to help improve diversity in the wine industry?

Key Takeaways

I loved the way Vanessa described the master of wine studies as a way to combine all of those pieces of her curiosity and feed her constant desire to keep learning. I feel that way when it comes to writing and researching guests and topics for this podcast.
I agree with her that the wine community needs to do a better job of explaining what natural wine actually means and what people should look for.
I love her advice to drink promiscuously! The people on the floor - whether it's a restaurant or retail - know better than anybody what's on that list or on the shelves. Talk to them and ask what's interesting. Take a risk, drink promiscuously.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video on Wednesday, March 24th at 7 pm eastern.

Click on the "Interested" or "Going" buttons below so that you'll be notified when we go live:

https://www.facebook.com/events/483530695981204

I’ll be jumping into the comments on all three platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You can win one of two signed copies of my books, "Red, White, and Drunk All Over" and "Unquenchable"

How to Win

All you have to do is just pick your favourite social media channel -- Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn -- tag us and post a wine you love before March 24th. Make sure to use these handles and hashtags:

Instagram - @vanessaconlin @sommvivant @nataliemacleanwine @wineaccess @wineaccessunfiltered
Twitter - @wineaccess @nataliemaclean
Facebook - @hello.wine.access @natdecants

Hashtags:

#wineaccess #natdecants

I’ll select the winner from those of you who participate before March 24th. I’ll also reshare your stories and posts with my followers whether you win or not so that you connect with more wine lovers.

Good luck, and I can't wait to see (and share) what you post!

About Amanda McCrossin & Vanessa Conlin MW

Amanda McCrossin is a sommelier, media personality, wine educator, host of the Wine Access Unfiltered Podcast, & creator/host of the Instagram and YouTube channel “SOMMVIVANT.” As the former Wine Director at PRESS Restaurant in Napa Valley, Amanda worked with the world’s largest, deepest restaurant collection of all Napa Valley wines in the world. Prior to being named Wine Director in 2018, Amanda worked as a sommelier with her mentors and predecessors Kelli White (author, Napa Valley Then & Now) and Scott Brenner to become one of the world’s leading experts in California wine. Today, Amanda focuses her efforts on producing wine “edutainment” and digital media content for her social media platforms geared toward both consumers and professionals alike. A frequent speaker, personality, and contributing writer, in 2018 she was named a Wine Enthusiast ‘Wine Star’ Nominee for Sommelier of the Year and has been featured by numerous publications and media outlets including SOMM TV, Food Network, Wine Enthusiast, Somm Journal, Food & Wine, World of Fine Wine, & Wine Spectator.

Vanessa Conlin MW is the Head of Wine for Wine Access, a national direct-to-consumer e-com wine retailer where she oversees all wine curation and wine content. Vanessa has served as the Director of Sales and Marketing for several of Napa’s most prestigious luxury estates including Arietta Wines and Dana Estates. Previously she was the wine buyer for two prominent Manhattan wine retailers and the Wine Director for a Manhattan-based wine bar. As an avid supporter of charitable causes, Vanessa is the President of the Board for Jameson Humane, a Napa Valley-based animal rescue and sanctuary, and has chaired the organization’s annual charity wine auction four times, raising over 7 million dollars. Prior to falling in love with wine, Vanessa worked as a professional musician, performing internationally and on Broadway, and holds a Master’s Degree in Music. She is an instructor for the Wine and Spirits Education Trust and was the recipient of the Niki Singer Memorial Scholarship from the International Wine Center. Vanessa became a Master of Wine in 2020.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/120.

119: Which Hot New Wine Regions & Styles Should You Try? Amanda McCrossin & Vanessa Conlin MW Part 1 Mar 10, 2021

Have you ever dreamed of ditching your day job and starting a career in wine? What do wine and music have in common? What's it like to share a bottle of wine with the famous wine critic Robert Parker?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amanda McCrossin & Vanessa Conlin of the Wine Access Unfiltered Podcast for part 1 of our two-part conversation.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

When did Vanessa recognize she had found her place in the world of wine?
Why was moving to Napa Valley the best moment in Amanda’s wine career so far?
How was Amanda impacted by the California wildfires in 2017 and 2020?
Are Napa Valley wineries open for visitors?
How did a class shift Vanessa’s career path from opera to wine?
Why was wine an infrequent part of Vanessa’s life during her career as an opera singer?
How did Amanda make the transition from the stage into her wine career?
How are wine and music more similar than you might think?
What’s behind the perceived barrier to entry for both wine and opera?
How are Amanda and Vanessa making wine more accessible?
Why did Amanda make the move to Napa Valley from New York?
How did Vanessa end up moving to California on a leap of faith?
How does Vanessa combine her passion for wine with her love of animals?
What was the moment that Amanda knew it was time for her to go all-in on her wine career?
What aspects of Vanessa’s transition to her wine career were the hardest?
Why was working at Press Restaurant such an interesting experience for Amanda?
Which first wine experience did Amanda share with Robert Parker?
What close call did Vanessa have with sparkling wine?

Key Takeaways

I love the parallels that they draw between wine and music: both enjoyed individually and evoke all the senses. You can share the same bottle of wine with others but have a very different experience of it from them. What you bring to that wine influences what you take away from it.
I love the point about wine, like music, being the sum of art and science. You start with technical foundations, but it’s the artistic flourish on top that makes the experience magical.
It was great to get an update on Napa Valley and I’m looking forward to visiting the region again.
I believe that you can enjoy wine without being an expert, but also believe that you can have a richer, more layered experience with knowledge. That’s always optional of course.
I agree that a great way to learn about wine is to surround yourself with people who know more about it than you do, whether that’s through friends or online courses.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video on Wednesday, March 17th at 7 pm eastern.

Click on the "Interested" or "Going" buttons below so that you'll be notified when we go live:

https://www.facebook.com/events/465681857886314/

I’ll be jumping into the comments on all three platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You can win one of two signed copies of my books, "Red, White, and Drunk All Over" and "Unquenchable"

How to Win

All you have to do is just pick your favourite social media channel -- Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn -- tag us and post a wine you love before March 24th. Make sure to use these handles and hashtags:

Instagram - @vanessaconlin @sommvivant @nataliemacleanwine @wineaccess @wineaccessunfiltered
Twitter - @wineaccess @nataliemaclean
Facebook - @hello.wine.access @natdecants

Hashtags:

#wineaccess #natdecants

I’ll select the winner from those of you who participate before March 24th. I’ll also reshare your stories and posts with my followers whether you win or not so that you connect with more wine lovers.

Good luck, and I can't wait to see (and share) what you post!

About Amanda McCrossin & Vanessa Conlin MW

Amanda McCrossin is a sommelier, media personality, wine educator, host of the Wine Access Unfiltered Podcast, & creator/host of the Instagram and YouTube channel “SOMMVIVANT.” As the former Wine Director at PRESS Restaurant in Napa Valley, Amanda worked with the world’s largest, deepest restaurant collection of all Napa Valley wines in the world. Prior to being named Wine Director in 2018, Amanda worked as a sommelier with her mentors and predecessors Kelli White (author, Napa Valley Then & Now) and Scott Brenner to become one of the world’s leading experts in California wine. Today, Amanda focuses her efforts on producing wine “edutainment” and digital media content for her social media platforms geared toward both consumers and professionals alike. A frequent speaker, personality, and contributing writer, in 2018 she was named a Wine Enthusiast ‘Wine Star’ Nominee for Sommelier of the Year and has been featured by numerous publications and media outlets including SOMM TV, Food Network, Wine Enthusiast, Somm Journal, Food & Wine, World of Fine Wine, & Wine Spectator.

Vanessa Conlin MW is the Head of Wine for Wine Access, a national direct-to-consumer e-com wine retailer where she oversees all wine curation and wine content. Vanessa has served as the Director of Sales and Marketing for several of Napa’s most prestigious luxury estates including Arietta Wines and Dana Estates. Previously she was the wine buyer for two prominent Manhattan wine retailers and the Wine Director for a Manhattan-based wine bar. As an avid supporter of charitable causes, Vanessa is the President of the Board for Jameson Humane, a Napa Valley-based animal rescue and sanctuary, and has chaired the organization’s annual charity wine auction four times, raising over 7 million dollars. Prior to falling in love with wine, Vanessa worked as a professional musician, performing internationally and on Broadway, and holds a Master’s Degree in Music. She is an instructor for the Wine and Spirits Education Trust and was the recipient of the Niki Singer Memorial Scholarship from the International Wine Center. Vanessa became a Master of Wine in 2020.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/119.

118: Dream Wine Careers with Susie Barrie & Peter Richards Part 2 Mar 03, 2021

Why are podcasts one of the best ways to learn about wine? How do English sparkling wines compare to Champagne, and should you seek them out? Why is the Master of Wine qualification valuable beyond the studies? What’s behind the low pass rate for the Master of Wine qualification?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Susie Barrie and Peter Richards, Masters of Wine for part two of our two-part conversation.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why does Winchester make a great location for a wine festival?
How did Susie and Peter adapt their Wine Festival Winchester during the pandemic?
How can you get a taste of 2020’s Wine Festival Winchester masterclasses?
What beautiful experience did Susie have when judging the 2020 WineGB awards?
When did Susie and Peter launch their podcast, Wine Blast?
What was it like launching their podcast during the pandemic?
Why are podcasts such a good match for wine?
Which aspects of podcasting are we most interested in?
Why are Susie and Peter so excited about English wine?
Can you find English wines in North America?
What taste profile can you expect from English sparkling wine?
Which types of English wine should you look out for?
How are climate extremes impacting wine?
How do English sparkling wines compare with Champagne?
Why is the Master of Wine qualification valuable beyond the studies?
What’s behind the low pass rate for the Master of Wine qualification?

Key Takeaways

I love how Susie and Peter pivoted with Covid and hosted their popular wine festival online. You can watch the video recordings of the sessions they hosted.
I so agree with them that podcasts are one of the best ways to learn about wine. I’m biased, of course, but it’s such an intimate medium that lends itself to more in-depth learning.
I found their discussion about English sparkling wines helpful, and I’m determined to taste them when I can find them going forward.
Susie and Peter made some excellent points on why the Master of Wine qualification is valuable beyond the studies to achieve the credential. Love that probative skill of asking the question beyond the question and challenging received wisdom.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video on Wednesday, February 24th at 7 pm eastern.

Click on the "Interested" or "Going" buttons below so that you'll be notified when we go live:

https://www.facebook.com/events/216760110179261

I’ll be jumping into the comments on all three platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a prize pack that includes a personally signed copy of their book on English wine, a lovely linen polishing cloth for your wine stemware and a cheeky chef’s apron that says on the front “Like it Fresh and Racy?”

How to Win

All you have to do is just pick your favourite social media channel -- Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn -- tag us and post a wine you love before March 10th... bonus points if you tag three wine-loving friends and you tell me why you picked that wine, how it tastes and suggested food pairings.

Instagram @susieandpeter @nataliemacleanwine
Facebook @natdecants
Twitter @wineschools @susiebarrie @nataliemaclean
LinkedIn @nataliemaclean

Hashtags for all platforms:

#wineblast #natdecants

I’ll also reshare your stories and posts with my followers whether you win or not so that you connect with more wine lovers.

Good luck, and I can't wait to see (and share) what you post!

About Susie Barrie and Peter Richards Susie and Peter are Masters of Wine who happen to be married to each other. It’s a strange old household, with a constant soundtrack of clinking bottles and glasses. As TV and radio presenters, event hosts, writers, podcasters, authors and consultants, the pair are renowned for their enthusiastic, thoughtful and articulate style, having been described as, ‘Legends: best in the business’ and ‘What a double act: two stars making a killer constellation.’

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/118.

117: Having a Wine Blast with Susie Barrie & Peter Richards Feb 24, 2021

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a career in wine, whether as a TV or radio personality, writer, author, podcaster, event organizer, speaker or consultant? Well, our guests tonight have done it all and you’re in for a treat with colourful stories from their brilliant careers!

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Susie Barrie and Peter Richards, Masters of Wine for part one of our two-part conversation.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

When did Susie decide she wanted to change her career from acting to wine?
When was Peter’s unorthodox introduction to wine writing?
Why should you always keep a bottle of wine in your bag?
What was the hardest moment in Susie’s journey as a wine expert?
What did Peter learn about himself and his writing style from the low points in his career?
Why is food such a great place for you to start learning about wine?
What have been the highlights of Susie and Peter’s careers so far?
How do Susie and Peter simplify wine by breaking it down into categories?
How did Peter come to recognize the impact of their work?
When did Susie develop her Michelin star-worthy cooking style?
How has wine impacted Susie and Peter’s relationship?
What effect does a career in wine have on your children?
What has been Susie and Peter’s experience with wine-fueled marathons?
Why should you wear fancy dress when running a marathon?

Key Takeaways

I loved listening to the journeys that brought both Susie and Peter from such different backgrounds to the world of wine. I feel we all sort of stumble into this world, and then never want to leave it.
I couldn’t agree more with their take that a great place to start learning about wine is through food pairing and to heck with those who scoff at the notion. That’s why my online Wine Smart Course focuses on pairings.
I enjoyed hearing how wine has affected their relationship beyond the shared passion and the stories about running the Medoc marathon that were so amusing. Wine bridges so many cultures, regions and moments.

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video on Wednesday, February 24th at 7 pm eastern.

Click on the "Interested" or "Going" buttons below so that you'll be notified when we go live:

https://www.facebook.com/events/715197649361153/

I’ll be jumping into the comments on all three platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a prize pack that includes a personally signed copy of their book on English wine, a lovely linen polishing cloth for your wine stemware and a cheeky chef’s apron that says on the front “Like it Fresh and Racy?”

How to Win

All you have to do is just pick your favourite social media channel -- Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn -- tag us and post a wine you love before March 10th... bonus points if you tag three wine-loving friends and you tell me why you picked that wine, how it tastes and suggested food pairings.

Instagram @susieandpeter @nataliemacleanwine
Facebook @natdecants
Twitter @wineschools @susiebarrie @nataliemaclean
LinkedIn @nataliemaclean

Hashtags for all platforms:

#wineblast #natdecants

I’ll also reshare your stories and posts with my followers whether you win or not so that you connect with more wine lovers.

Good luck, and I can't wait to see (and share) what you post!

About Susie Barrie and Peter Richards Susie and Peter are Masters of Wine who happen to be married to each other. It’s a strange old household, with a constant soundtrack of clinking bottles and glasses. As TV and radio presenters, event hosts, writers, podcasters, authors and consultants, the pair are renowned for their enthusiastic, thoughtful and articulate style, having been described as, ‘Legends: best in the business’ and ‘What a double act: two stars making a killer constellation.’

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/117.

116: Open That Bottle Night with Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher Feb 17, 2021

Do you have a bottle of wine that you’ve been holding onto for a special occasion? Are you curious about how much an old bottle you’ve been keeping in your cellar is worth and whether you should open it soon? Would you like to take a peek behind-the-scenes at how two of the world’s most successful wine columnists taste wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher, journalists, authors and wine columnists.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How did growing up in the segregated South inspire Dottie to become a journalist?
What made John recognize the power of good journalism at a young age?
What was the worst moment of Dottie and John’s writing careers?
Which commencement address was a special honour for Dottie?
Which important story made John’s proudest moment in his journalism career so far?
What was it like becoming part of the Wine Writers Collection at UC Davis Library?
What was Martha Stewart’s connection to Dottie and John’s Wall Street Journal column?
Why did Dottie and John end up drinking Château Latour on The Today Show?
How did Dottie and John meet?
What was the first bottle of wine Dottie and John shared?
How did their honeymoon experience of Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve 1968 lead to meeting renowned winemaker André Tchelistcheff?
How did wine change Dottie and John’s lives?
What is it about wine that makes us slow down and appreciate the present?
Why should you visit winemakers?
How did bottles of Taittinger Champagne end up in a birdbath?
What role did wine play at the wedding of Dottie and John’s daughter, Media?
Why should you seek out a wine merchant you can talk to?
Why did Dottie and John make the switch from writing about news to wine?
What was the unique approach Dottie and John took to their Wall Street Journal wine column?
Why is Dottie excited about the proliferation of wine writers and bloggers?
How did Oregon Pinot Noirs spur vehement disagreements between Dottie and John?
Who are the wine jerks?
How does the “exclusivity” of wine still show up today?
What has been Dottie’s experience as a Black woman participating in industry tasting events?
How can each of us play our part in making our worlds more equitable and inclusive?
Where did the idea for Open That Bottle Night (OTBN) come from?
What was the response to the first OTBN?
Where is the most unusual place to have participated in OTBN?
Why do we resist opening our special bottles of wine?
Why should you do OTBN as often as you can?
Which wine will Dottie, John and I open for OTBN 2021?
How has OTBN been embraced widely in popular culture and across borders?

Key Takeaways

I loved their stories about how they met and fell in love with each other and with wine. I also enjoyed going behind-the-scenes with their tasting and writing process. It’s as rigorous as their non-wine journalism.
I admire how Dottie and John approached Tastings as a column about life, not simply wine. They connected with so many readers because of that and inspired a passion for wine by making it accessible without dumbing it down.
I appreciated hearing Dottie’s experiences as a Black woman in the world of wine. I’m motivated to interview more people of colour on this podcast. I already have some in mind, but please let me know if you have suggestions.
Love the motivation behind Open that Bottle Night! I’m so motivated to participate in OTBN this year! You’ll find out which two wines were my finalists for the decision, and why I chose the one I did during our Watch Party on February 24th. I want to know which wine you chose too!

Watch Party

Join me for the debut Watch Party of the video of this conversation that I’ll be live-streaming for the very first time on Instagram Live Video, Facebook Live Video or YouTube Live Video on Wednesday, February 24th at 7 pm eastern.

Click on the "Interested" or "Going" buttons below so that you'll be notified when we go live:

https://www.facebook.com/events/199960218511080

I’ll be jumping into the comments on all three platforms as we watch it together so that I can answer your questions in real-time.

I want to hear from you! What’s your opinion of what we’re discussing? What takeaways or tips do you love most from this chat? What questions do you have that we didn’t answer?

Giveaway

You could win a personally signed copy of Dottie and John's book, Love By The Glass, a beautifully written memoir and love story that also teaches you lots about wine.

How to Win

All you have to do is just pick your favourite social media channel -- Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn -- and post about which bottle you’re going to open on Open That Bottle Night, before Saturday, February 27th.

You'll get an additional entry for each social post you do, so feel free to post on all four social media platforms. You'll also get a bonus entry for each wine-loving friend you tag.

I’ll re-share your stories and posts with my followers so that you get more followers!

Use these tags and hashtags when you post on your fave social media channel:

Instagram @dottieandjohn @nataliemacleanwine
Facebook @winecouple @natdecants
Twitter @winecouple @nataliemaclean
LinkedIn @nataliemaclean

Hashtags for all platforms:

#otbn #natdecants

I’ll select the winner from those of you who participate before Saturday, February 27th!

Good luck, and I can't wait to see (and share) what you post!

About Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher conceived and wrote The Wall Street Journal's wine column, "Tastings," from 1998 to 2010. They’ve published four best-selling wine books and created the annual, international "Open That Bottle Night" (OTBN), a celebration of wine and friendship. Their column for that first event was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. It’s coming up this Saturday, February 27th. We’ll dig into what it’s all about during our conversation. Before writing about wine, both Dorothy and John had distinguished careers in journalism as reporters and editors at The Miami Herald, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/116.

115: Inside Bordeaux's Secret Underground with Jane Anson Feb 10, 2021

Are you curious about Bordeaux wine? Would you love to learn about its secret underground history? What about the overlooked wines and vintages that are both affordable and delicious?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jane Anson, the world’s foremost authority on Bordeaux wine and the author of Inside Bordeaux.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Giveaway

You could win a personally signed copy of Jane Anson's gorgeous, new book Inside Bordeaux if you post a Bordeaux wine that you’ve enjoyed on Instagram or Facebook, either as a Story or in your feed.

Use the hashtags #insidebordeaux and #natdecants and tag me, Jane and her exclusive book distributor in Canada, the wine agency, All The Right Grapes:

Instagram @jane.anson @nataliemacleanwine @alltherightgrapes @bordeauxwines @drinkbordeaux @vinsdumedoc Facebook @jane.anson.7 @natdecants @alltherightgrapes @bordeauxwine @CrusBourgeoisduMedocUS Twitter @newbordeaux @nataliemaclean @alltherightgrapes @BordeauxWines @BordeauxWinesUK @VisitFrenchWine LinkedIn @nataliemaclean

#insidebordeaux #natdecants #BordeauxWine #CIVB #FrenchWines

I’ll select the winner from those of you who participate before next Wednesday… bonus points if you tag three wine-loving friends and you tell me why you picked that wine, what it means to you, where you bought it, and suggested food pairings. I’ll also re-share your stories and posts with my followers and announce the winners during our chat next Wednesday.

Highlights

When did Jane decide to become a writer?
What editing mistake from 20 years ago still makes Jane's blood run cold?
What is Jane's most memorable moment of her career so far?
Which career would Jane choose if she wasn't a wine writer?
Would your experience of Mouton Rothschild's 1945 Victory Vintage live up to the stories?
How did Jane end up choosing to focus her writing on Bordeaux?
What old English connection is responsible for the unique way you see Bordeaux being sold today?
What caused Bordeaux to switch to the predominantly red wines you would be familiar with?
How have foreign influences influenced the iconic Bordeaux wines you enjoy today?
What was Bordeaux's involvement in the slave trade?
Why was the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855 created?
What do you need to know about the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855?
Where can you find Jane's informal Bordeaux ranking system?
Why should always read tasting notes rather than relying solely on wine scores?
How did Robert Parker influence your experiences with Bordeaux wine over the years?
What has contributed to the general move away from big, fruity wines you can see in the industry?
How has climate change impacted Bordeaux blends?
Why is it important for you to look beyond the high-priced classified Bordeaux estate wines?
How did Jane navigate the over 800 chateaux she researched for Inside Bordeaux?
Which unusual publishing and distribution route did Jane take for Inside Bordeaux?
What makes the maps included in Inside Bordeaux so unique?
What green initiatives would you find winemakers undertaking in Bordeaux?
Why should you be concerned about monoculture?
Where should you look for bargains on Bordeaux?
What are Jane's thoughts on the future of Bordeaux?

Key Takeaways

Bordeaux is so much more diverse than those big, fancy chateaux that we imagine, what I call castle marketing. I love that Jane searched for undiscovered regions, especially those that are the satellites of more famous ones like Montagne de St Emilion and the Cotes.
Jane reminds us how important soil is with her gorgeous maps that truly reveal the diverse unground layers of Bordeaux that in turn shape what we drink.
I’m fascinated with the British influence on Bordeaux wine that dates back to 1152 when this region became part of a Duchy of the English crown. Eleanor of Aquitaine, who was French, who owned this part of France through her father. And she married her second husband, who quickly after their marriage became Henry the second of England. That helped establish Bordeaux as an exporting region, as well as the style of claret the Brits came to love.
It’s interesting how the rise of wine critic Robert Parker influenced the style of Bordeaux wine toward a more fruit-forward expression and how that has since receded to greater balance and elegance.
I was pleased to hear about the many green initiatives alive in Bordeaux from eco-forestry to biodynamics. In addition to caring for the environment, I believe it also requires greater attention to growing the vines and results in better wines.

About Jane Anson Jane Anson is the world’s foremost authority on Bordeaux wine. She’s lived in Bordeaux since 2003 and is author of the newly published Inside Bordeaux, which has received multiple glowing reviews and has been nominated for several awards already. She’s also the author of The Club of Nine, Angélus, Bordeaux Legends, a history of the 1855 First Growth wines, as well as co-author or translator of over a dozen wine and travel books. She’s Bordeaux correspondent and columnist for Decanter magazine and has won several awards for her writing, including Louis Roederer Wine Online Communicator of the Year 2020, and Born Digital Best Editorial 2020. She is a graduate of the DUAD tasting diploma with the Bordeaux Institute of Oenology and an accredited wine teacher at the Bordeaux Ecole du Vin.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/115.

114: Rising Alcohol in Wine: Too Hot to Handle? Feb 03, 2021

Want to seduce someone this Valentine’s Day? Forget the lingerie, lipstick and silk-tie handcuffs—just ensure that the object of your desire drinks a little wine. Over a few glasses of wine, love is blind, or at least it’s wearing rosé-coloured glasses. Perhaps that’s why it’s one of the greatest social lubricants—wine has certainly done more to keep marriages together than beer. Wine embodies physical pleasure: With pheromones, its aromas are a heady mix and its velvet caress on the tongue both soothes and excites. What other drink is described as “voluptuous” and “curvaceous”?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with you about not only wine for Valentine's Day, but we’re also going to turn up the heat and talk about the rising levels of alcohol in wine.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What rule of thumb should you keep in mind when pairing wine with chocolate?
Which wines can you choose when pairing with sweet desserts?
Why does the alcohol in wine hit you harder now than in the past?
What is fuelling the trend of wines having higher alcohol content?
How does alcohol support wine and the tasting experience you enjoy?
What can you determine from the tears coating your glass?
Why does the alcohol in wine give you the impression of sweetness and texture?
Does high alcohol really prove beneficial for New World wines?
What traditional processes contribute to the high alcohol levels you might be accustomed to in wines like Amarone?
Why do usually find lower alcohol wines coming from cool-climate regions?
Where would you find most of the world's most alcoholic wines being produced?
Which white wine myth should you dispel?
Why should you care about the steadily increasing alcohol content in wine?
How do winemakers test grapes for maturity?
How does climate change influence ripeness?
How do modern winemaking techniques boost alcohol levels?
What influence did Robert Parker have on the tasting profile of the wines you've tasted?
Why might big wines be spoiling your dinner parties?
How can you enjoy different wines for different purposes?
Why shouldn't you rely on alcohol levels reported on wine labels?
What can you expect from the future of high-alcohol wines?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/114.

113: Tasting and Pairing Grüner Veltliner with Austrian Winemaker Rudi Rabl Jan 27, 2021

Why do sommeliers love Grüner Veltliner? How does this zesty white wine from Austria compare to Gewürztraminer and Riesling? Does it age well? What are the best food pairings?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Rudi Rabl, founder and winemaker at Austria’s Rabl Winery.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What makes Grüner Veltliner such a flexible type of wine?
Which characteristic flavours will you taste in Grüner Veltliner?
Which dishes should you try pairing with Grüner Veltliner?
Can you pick up aromatic similarities between Gewürztraminer and Grüner Veltliner?
How is climate change affecting winemakers in Austria?
Why is it harder for you to find Grüner Veltliner in North America?
What should you look for when buying Grüner Veltliner?
Which appetizers could you pair with Grüner Veltliner?
How many different styles of Grüner Veltliner are available to you from Rabl?
What can you expect from Rabl St. Laurent, as an Austrian red wine?
What made the 2013 and 2015 vintages ones you'd particularly enjoy?
Why is Grüner Veltliner a great candidate to add to your cellar?
How did wild yeast lead to Rudi's favourite moment in his winemaking career so far?
What is Rudi's most memorable wine moment?

Key Takeaways

Austrian is a boutique wine producer, a country that makes less wine than the region of Bordeaux.
It’s great to know that we get the best wines in North America, as these tend to be exported rather than the more ordinary vin de table, especially since the country produces less than what its citizens consume on average each year.
Grüner Veltliner is such a versatile wine both stylistically and when it comes to food pairings. No wonder it’s a favourite of sommeliers.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: We shouldn't be afraid of acidity. What salt is to food, I find acidity is to wine. It brings forward the flavour of both the wine and the food.
One of the preservatives of wine is good acidity and Grüner Veltliner has it in spades so yes these wines can age well, though they’re also so vibrant and fresh when young.

About Rudi Rabl Rudi Rabl is proud of the family tradition of his winery, dating back to 1750. The love for nature and grapes, the ecological work in the vineyard with herbal plants and the knowledge of the professional processing ensure an excellent quality of the different types of wine. In the cellar, modernity is combined with traditional values. Ecology is an important factor and the winery has been certified as "Sustainable Austria" since 2015. Among the highlights of the awards in recent years is the “White Wine Maker of the Year" 2019 at IWSC in London, the two Decanter Trophy Winners Grüner Veltliner Dechant and Riesling Steinhaus, as well as the 2017 regional winner in the Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc categories. In addition, the winery was awarded "Winery of the Year" in Kamptal.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/113.

112: New Zealand Wine's Sacred Soils with Left Field's Richard Painter Jan 20, 2021

How does the unique geography and climate of Hawke's Bay and Gimlet Gravels in New Zealand create wines unlike any others? How does New Zealand Syrah differ from those from other regions? Why do many winemakers seem to have a special love for Chardonnay?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Richard Painter, Winemaker for Te Awa Single Estate and Left Field wines.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

How does the geography of Gimblett Gravels impact the wines you get from Te Awa Wines?
Which foods would make a good match for you to pair with the lighter style of Left Field Chardonnay?
What prominent notes will you experience with Left Field Chardonnay?
Which delicious pairings should you try with Left Field Sauvignon Blanc?
What's the fascinating story behind the unique illustrations you'll find on Left Field wine labels?
How does Chardonnay lend itself to the wide stylistic variations available to you?
What particular style can you expect from Left Field Chardonnay versus Te Awa Estate Chardonnay?
Why are goat cheese and Sauvignon Blanc a pairing a perfect pairing you should try?
What unique characteristics will you find in Left Field Rosé?
Should you cellar your Rosé?
What differences will you taste between a New Zealand versus Australian Syrah?
What can you expect from a Left Field Pinot Noir and Left Field Merlot?
Why would you find that wine is a natural progression after studying geography?

Key Takeaways

I admire Richard’s love of geography and soil: it’s so fundamental to understanding and loving wine.
This week, I’m trying his suggested pairing of fried snapper with lemon and a zesty cool-climate Chardonnay.
He observed that Chardonnay is often considered a winemaker’s wine since it can express so many staples and variations depending on the winemaker’s decisions, and of course, the terroir.

About Richard Painter

Richard studied a Bachelor of Science majoring in Geography at Otago. Whilst living in Dunedin, he spent four years managing the legendary Bath St. Nightclub. During this stint in hospitality, Richard began attending wine clubs and tastings. He soon realized that not only did he really enjoy drinking wine but also that the process of making wine was intrinsically linked to soil science and climatology and therefore appeared to be a practical application of what he studied in Physical Geography. This burgeoning interest in wine took him to Lincoln University in 2006, to complete a Graduate Diploma in Winemaking and Viticulture.

Richard started off his career in the wine industry working in vineyards in Central Otago, Canterbury and Nelson. During a year working at Neudorf Vineyard’s in Nelson, he discovered an interest in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and wanted to learn more about these wines. This led him to travel to Oregon to work for Owen Roe Winery and as fate would have it, ended up working in their facility in Washington State.

Again his curiosity with different varietals was piqued and he fell in love with making (and naturally drinking) bold red wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blends and Syrah. This love of red wine is what brought Richard to Hawkes Bay as he wanted to work with fruit from the famous Gimblett Gravels sub-region.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/112.

111: Ontario Icewine: How to Drink It, Pair It and Love It with Karen King Jan 13, 2021

How is Icewine different from other sweet wines? How does that change the way you drink it and pair with food? Which pairings work beyond dessert? How can you make delicious Icewine Slushies and pair them with chili chips and wasabi peas for an incredible flavour combination?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Karen King, co-owner of the Ice House Winery in Niagara.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What differences can you see in how different generations think about Icewine?
Why shouldn't you save Icewine only for special occasions?
How is the Ice House Winery Icewine different from others?
How does Karen and Jaime's winemaking goal benefit you?
What rule-breaking experience can you expect from the Ice House's Icewine Slushies?
How can you make Icewine Slushies at home?
What taste profile will you encounter when drinking Icewine Slushies?
Why should try a pairing of Icewine with wasabi peas?
Which surprising notes will you taste in the Ice House Riesling Icewine?
What foods can you pair with Riesling Icewine?
Which complex notes can you identify in Ice House Cabernet Sauvignon Icewine?
Are there certain aspects of a wine that make it more suited for you to have at the end of a meal?
How can Icewine make your other wines more interesting?
How did being on The Big Decision catapult the Ice House Winery's popularity?
Where can you find the Ice House Winery?

Key Takeaways

Karen reveals some interesting stats: 20% of wine lovers drink dessert wine, but 80% are interested in them as cocktails, particularly younger people. I think it’s smart that she came up with a way to make icewine more accessible and have a broader reach with the slushies even though purists might be horrified. They lower the intensity of the flavour and sweetness making them more palatable.
Her pairings of chilli chips and wasabi peas were simply brilliant with icewine. The combination of heat, salt, sweetness and acidity was a party for my mouth. Also try other chip flavours like chipotle, lime and jalapeno.
I like her observation on high tone fruit like peach, pear, apricot in Vidal icewines versus the lower tone, more mellow fruit of a Cabernet-based icewine with notes of dark berries and cherries.

About Karen King Karen King and her husband, Jamie Macfarlane are the co-owners of the Ice House Winery in Niagara. Karen has applied her business and sensory expertise to support Jamie’s expertise as a master winemaker. He developed his unique award-winning Icewines through Karen's research that identified that consumers preferred a more balanced Icewine with a complex fruit-forward delivery that had a crisp rather than sweet finish.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/111.

110: Drunken Adjectives: A Fuzzy Vine-acular Jan 06, 2021

Are there really that many different descriptors for inebriation? What's the origin of drunken euphemisms like "three sheets to the wind"? Why does our language go from getting hammered at college dorm parties to more mature sentiments like "feeling no pain"?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm sharing the interesting and surprisingly vast vocabulary that describes the things we do, say and feel when we've had a little too much.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What descriptors for overindulgence might have you thinking of food instead?
How does our drunken behaviour lend itself to immature and animal-like labels?
Which more macabre adjectives might remind you of the excess that comes with college parties?
What old-timey predecessors can you find for these drunken adjectives?
How can you describe the more mellow inebriation you've matured into?
Would you find different descriptors for intoxication when it comes to women versus men?
What meaning do you find behind euphemisms from the past?
Which colourful phrases do other cultures and languages use to refer to intoxication?
What are some of the stories you'd find at the heart of our alcohol-rich language?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/110.

109: How to Pair Wine and Chocolate with Chocolate Sommelier Roxanne Browning Dec 30, 2020

Where can you find the best chocolate? What's the difference between candy and real chocolate? How can you pair wine and chocolate? What does Fair Trade mean and what should you look out for? Where can you find the best chocolate?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with New York Chocolate Sommelier Roxanne Browning.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

Why should you consider a trip to the Ecuadorian rainforest?
What parallels can you find between wine and chocolate?
In which regions can you find the best quality cacao?
What is heirloom cacao?
How can you identify real chocolate?
Can you access artisanal chocolate from around the world?
Why do you notice fruit-forward notes in real chocolate?
What do you need to know about selecting and serving chocolate?
How can you restore the taste of chocolate that wasn't properly tempered?
What can you do to support fair wages and working conditions for cacao farmers?
What health benefits can you enjoy from real chocolate?
How can chocolate help you lose weight?
Which wines can you pair with real chocolate?
Why does texture play such an important role in your chocolate experience?

Key Takeaways

Roxanne found several similarities between wine and chocolate, from the importance of terroir and they’re grown to not being overly manipulated when being made. Even the parallel between using sugar and dairy to mask poor cacao beans is similar to using oak and high alcohol to cover up poor grapes.
Cacao beans are fruit, not legumes or vegetables because they grow on trees, and therefore also have varying degrees of acidity like wine.
Roxanne gives great advice for serving chocolate like cheese - let it come up to room temperature to appreciate the aromas and flavours.
Buy Direct Trade chocolate when you can to support farmers more fully.

About Roxanne Browning

As an entrepreneur, Roxanne Browning merged two passions - chocolate and wine. Ultimately, a trip to the Ecuadorian Amazon rain forest, where she harvested cacao and witnessed first hand how the noble cacao pod transforms into a chocolate bar. By empowering cacao farmers to lift themselves out of poverty, they reinvest back into their land, communities, feed and educate their children.

Founded in 2010, Exotic Chocolate Tasting, Inc. is a Certified WBENC Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and a Certified New York State Women-owned business. This original idea of terroir-driven chocolate paired with wine showcases Roxanne's knowledge and experience with guests while they enjoy their two favourite pleasures.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/109.

108: Holiday Movie Wines + Cool Chardonnay with Brian Schmidt Dec 23, 2020

What exactly is a cool climate Chardonnay? Which dishes are delicious with this style of Chardonnay? What's the most important element for you to discover when tasting wine? Why did Chardonnay become so popular, then fall out of favour? What is the Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Brian Schmidt, Vice President and Winemaker at Vineland Estates Winery.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What are the hallmarks you would find in cool climate wine-producing regions?
Why is "cool climate" being redefined?
Which traditional cool climate wine regions would you be familiar with?
Why shouldn't you compare Niagara and Burgundy wines?
How did Chardonnay rise in popularity since the "Anything But Chardonnay" times?
Would you experience a difference in Chardonnay styles in recent years?
Why would you prefer to pair a light versus a buttery white wine with food?
How can you identify minerality?
Which element of wine is the most important for you to identify?
What type of experiences can you have at the International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration?
Are there certain dishes that you should try with cool climate Chardonnay?
What was Brian's most interesting cool climate Chardonnay experience?

Key Takeaways

Brian gives us a great definition of cool climate Chardonnay being grown in wine regions that have 1000 to 1450 heat units during the growing season to give the freshest expression of the fruit. It’s also a combination of latitude and attitude. He draws some valid comparisons with Riesling, another cool-climate grape, that also undergoes a cool fermentation in stainless steel tanks rather than oak barrels.
Chardonnay, much like Merlot, fell out of favour a decade ago with the Anything But Chardonnay backlash because it had become both too popular and too homogenous. But Chard is back baby, with a slim new profile and crisp style.
Minerality in wine is more of a tingling texture than a taste, though it is often described as wet stone.

About Brian Schmidt

For over two decades, winemaker, Brian Schmidt has faithfully served Vineland’s vineyards and cellars with a steady, farsighted view to promoting complete integration, natural synergies and reduced intervention. This holistic approach has resulted in specific tiers of wines that continue to voice a clear expression of time and place. Brian maintains, “It is critical to understand the soil and site where your grapes are grown while developing a defined, yet flexible frame to react to the curve balls that Mother Nature likes to throw.” Brian continues, “I do have an untamed passion for growing all cool climate varieties, but I must admit that I have a particular love for Riesling and Cabernet Franc.” On mentioning his recent award, he smiles broadly, locks eyes and says in a warm voice, “You do know that I have an entire team of creative and dedicated individuals behind me. The award is clearly the result of the efforts of a team of talented people at Vineland, all working towards a common goal. I was the fortunate one to be able to receive the award on their behalf.”

Brian Schmidt was born in Kelowna, British Columbia and was raised on a vineyard that had been in the family for three generations. The Schmidt family was one of the founding families of the Okanagan wine industry and this was the bedrock of Brian’s interest in winemaking. Brian has experimented, researched and has travelled extensively throughout Europe’s cool climate regions studying winemaking and the specific connections to the land. It is this intensive experience that has resulted in the creation of a winemaking style that has become Vineland Estates Winery’s signature.

Brian is most concerned with how the public receives and embraces Vineland’s wines but the wines have also garnered formal, national and international recognition. One notable achievement was the awarding of the 2003 VinItaly Grand Gold trophy as the highest-scoring winery in a field of over three thousand wines. This was the first time this trophy had ever been awarded outside of Europe. Brian humbly accepts the many honours but is quick to get back to the important business of building Vineland Estates’ reputation for wines that delight and engage by expressing the true essence of place.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/108.

107: Wine Tasting and Pairing Tips from Master Sommelier Bruce Wallner Dec 16, 2020

Is being a sommelier as glamourous as it seems? Why is it sometimes difficult to differentiate between certain New and Old World wines? How does terroir play a key role in a blind tasting? What's it like being in a sommelier competition?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Bruce Wallner, Master Sommelier at Sommelier Factory.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What un-glamourous truth might you be surprised to learn about being a sommelier?
What intangible joy can you get from being a sommelier?
How should you view the role of a sommelier?
Which areas would you see assessed in the Best Sommelier in Canada competition?
How do you train for a sommelier competition?
Why would you do a blind tasting?
Is there a reasonable explanation why you might confuse certain regions in a blind tasting?
Why should you pay close attention to terroir?
What parallels can you find between the Quebec Best Sommelier competition and The Karate Kid?
What underlying principle should you keep in mind when you're pairing food and wine?
What does grenache add to your wine tasting experience?
What tasting profile will you encounter with 2009 Clos De Caveau Fruit Sauvage?
How can you match 2009 Clos De Caveau Fruit Sauvage with food?
How did Bruce go from bartending to becoming a sommelier?

Key Takeaways

Bruce defines a sommelier as being the one step between the person who makes the wine and the person who drinks it.
Bruce takes a professional approach to training for the competition that includes mental conditioning as well as abstaining from wine the day before so that his palate is at peak perception for tasting during the event. I’m going to see if I can detect if my own palate perception is more acute when I’ve not had wine for a day. That does happen once in a while!
The blind tasting component of the sommelier competition is more about describing the wine and its elements rather than nailing the exact name and vintage of the wine. The latter is a meaningless party trick like trying to balance a spoon on your nose.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/107.

106: Pairing California Wine and Gourmet Burgers with Winemaker Joel Gott Dec 09, 2020

How do you pair wine with burgers? What is it about California that gives us such a wide variety of wine? How is the Napa Valley food scene? What restaurant industry lessons help Joel make better wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Joel Gott, owner and winemaker at Joel Gott Wines.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

When will you see the most "action" at a winery?
What facts might you be surprised to learn about Napa Valley?
Which highly-acclaimed restaurants should you visit on your next trip to Napa Valley?
How did in-bottle refermentation create the worst moment of Joel's career?
What exciting moment did Joel experience while flying over the Pacific?
What makes Three Thieves Wines unique?
Who are the people you need to know behind Three Thieves Wines?
How does the growing environment translate into what you taste in Three Thieves Pinot Grigio and Cabernet Sauvignon?
What tasting notes will you encounter with Three Thieves Wines?
Why does Joel Gott describe his restaurants as "the low end of the high end or the high end of the low end"?
Can you pair Three Thieves Cabernet Sauvignon with a burger?
Which wine can you pair with a kimchi burger?
Why is Zinfandel a safe bet to pair with many foods?
Which of Joel Gott's wines would you find to be the most complicated?
What French influence might you notice in Joel Gott Wines Unoaked Chardonnay?
Which Gott's Roadside burgers should you pair with Joel Gott Wines Unoaked Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot?
Is Joel Gott Wines Cabernet Sauvignon a good addition to your cellar?
Why should you shop by vintage instead of by brands?
What advantages do women winemakers bring to the table?
Why do you find such a wide variety of wine styles out of California alone?
What are Joel's top tips for improving your wine experience this week?

Key Takeaways

Shop for great vintages first rather than brands. You can find so many gems this way, often underpriced too.
The excitement of the harvest is often the spark that ignites a passion to make wine. So much of an entire year’s work depends on just a few weeks -- it’s nerve-wracking and exhilarating.
Pairing ideas for gourmet burgers from Cabernet with a classic cheeseburger to Zinfandel for racier burgs like kimchi with pickled veggies and spicy aioli or green chili and jack cheese. The sweet fruit and spice of the zin is a great match for the spice and salt in the burgers and fixin's.
Corked wine can ruin the reputation of a winery with a customer for good and a screw cap is able to seal a moment in time, especially the freshness of a sauvignon blanc.

About Joel Gott

While running Palisades Market in Calistoga in the early 1990s, Joel Gott noticed a growing need for quality, value wines. Having worked at Kenwood Winery in Sonoma County, and with a family history in the business, Joel felt sure he could fill this void in the marketplace.

In 1996, Joel purchased a few tons of Zinfandel from family friend and grape grower Tom Dillian. With the help of then-girlfriend—and winemaker at Joseph Phelps—Sarah, Joel produced his first vintage of Dillian Ranch Amador County Zinfandel. The wine received praise from Robert Parker and Wine Spectator, which was all the encouragement Joel needed to produce additional varietals.

A Sauvignon Blanc followed in 1998, and the year after he and Sarah produced California appellation Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon by shopping the entire state for the best fruit, creating a wine shaped by various regions instead of a single estate. This style and commitment to quality wines blended from hand-selected vineyards helped guide the direction of Joel Gott Wines.

In 2003, 815 was added to the California Cabernet Sauvignon label to celebrate the birth of Joel and his wife Sarah’s first daughter Lucy on August 15th. That same year, Alisa Jacobson was hired as the assistant winemaker, and the following year Sarah left her position as winemaker at Quintessa to focus on a growing family and winemaking at Joel Gott Wines.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/106.

105: Wine and Cheese Pairings to Celebrate the Holidays with Janet Fletcher Dec 02, 2020

Should you try a cheese-only cheese course? Why are cheese and bread not necessarily great matches for cheese? Which underappreciated wine and cheese pairing should you try today? How does sparkling wine stack up with your favourite cheeses? Have you been serving cheeses the wrong way? Should you eat the rinds on cheeses?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with award-winning journalist and author, Janet Fletcher.

You can find the wines we discussed at www.nataliemaclean.com/winepicks.

Highlights

What shift can you see in the restaurant industry's approach to serving cheese?
Which mindset shift did Janet want you to make when writing her first book about cheese?
How did writing a weekly column create a space for Janet to deep dive into the culture, science and history of cheese?
Why should you try a cheese-only cheese course?
What extra consideration do you need to make when pairing wine and cheese?
Is it a good idea to pair wine and cheese with grapes?
Which problem might you encounter when pairing cheese with crackers?
What creative bread and cheese pairing should you try?
Which type of underappreciated wine does Janet recommend as a great pairing with cheese?
Why is Gouda the perfect cheese to pair with your brandy?
Why is sparkling wine Janet's "desert island wine"?
What characteristics and flavours will you pick up on with Tomales Teleeka cheese?
What do you need to know about double and triple cream cheeses?
How are wine and cheese very similar?
Which little-known, connoisseur-approved wine and cheese pairing should you try?
What's the right way to serve Parmigiano-Reggiano?
Why does Parmigiano-Reggiano make a great table cheese?
Why do contrasting textures work so well with wine and cheese pairings?
How can you tell which cheeses aren't meant to be sliced?
What basic tips can you use when choosing a cheese knife?
Should you eat the rinds on cheeses?
Can you pair blue cheese with sparkling wine?
How many cheeses should you serve at a dinner party?
Can you use the horizontal tasting concept with cheese?
What's the best way you can pair sparkling wine with goat cheese?

Key Takeaways

I love Janet’s advice that simplicity is often the key to a great cheese board -- let the cheese be the star both visually and flavour-wise rather than a lot of condiments.
When it comes to condiments, many can clash with your wine whether they’re sweet, vinegary or pickled. The same goes with bread and crackers, best to stick to fairly neutral flavours.
I can’t wait to experiment more with sherry and cheeses, especially an aged Gouda that has those nutty, butterscotch flavours.
I found it interesting that triple cream cheeses are about 75% butterfat -- that’s the dry matter without any water versus 62% for double cream cheeses and 45% for average cheeses.
It’s interesting how our perception of the salt in cheese increases as it ages and loses moisture.
Janet has great advice for chipping rather than cutting hard cheeses to maintain their crunchy crystalize structure -- you can see the special knife she recommends in the video version of our conversation (https://www.nataliemaclean.com/blog/videos/janet-fletcher-wine-and-cheese-pairings-video/)

About Janet Fletcher Janet Fletcher is the author or co-author of nearly 30 books on food and beverage, including Cheese & Wine, Cheese & Beer and Yogurt: Sweet and Savory Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Janet publishes the weekly Planet Cheese blog and is the cheese columnist for Specialty Food and Somm Journal magazines. She teaches cooking and cheese-appreciation classes around the country. Her journalism has received three James Beard Awards and the IACP Bert Greene Award, and her food writing has appeared in numerous national publications, including The New York Times, Saveur, Fine Cooking and Food & Wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/105.

104: Zinfandel Crusader Joel Peterson, Ravenswood Founding Winemaker Nov 25, 2020

Do you know the rich and royal history behind Zinfandel? How does the air in a vineyard affect the flavours you taste in its wine? Why did Zinfandel become such a sensation in North America? What does mythology have to do with Ravenswood wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with the Godfather of Zin, Joel Peterson, founder and winemaker of Ravenswood Winery.

Highlights

Why did Joel's father involve him in wine tastings as a child?
What sort of colourful tasting notes would you read in Joel's father's wine club newsletters?
What's the less-than-catchy name you'd use for the Zinfandel grape in it's home country of Croatia?
When would you find the first historical reference to the Zinfandel grape?
How is Zinfandel connected to Old World royalty?
What makes Croatia a great grape-growing region?
What do you need to know about "founder grapes"?
How did Zinfandel come to the United States?
What history can you taste in Ravenswood Vinters Blend Zinfandel?
What unbelievable raven encounter led to Joel's connection to them as a totem?
How did an opera inspire the name Ravenswood?
In which areas of mythology would you find references to ravens?
Why you will love a pairing of baby back ribs and Ravenswood Zinfandel blends?
Which climatic features make Lodi an ideal grape-growing area?
How does your tasting experience differ between Ravenswood Vintners Blend and Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel?
Why do you often find higher alcohol content in Zinfandels?
How do you find the "sweet spot" for wine which has the perfect balance?
What do you taste differently with wines made with the punch down versus pump over techniques?
How does "airroir" impact your experience with wine?
What makes a field blend different from single grape wines?
Which annual charity event will you find Joel at without fail?
What influence does growing up with two superstar chemists as your parents have on you?

Key Takeaways

The historical roots of Zinfandel and its links to Croatia when it was part of the Austria-Hungarian empire as well as Venetian courts is fascinating, as is the detective work to establish the grape’s true heritage and parentage.
Zinfandel's history goes back to 1488, and it’s one of the 12 founding grapes of all wine grapes.
Why Lodi makes such great Zinfandel with its deep, sandy soils that were once part of an ancient ocean bed. This produces larger grape clusters with smaller skin to flesh rations resulting in less harsh tannins, and a smoother, juicier, fruitier wine.
How wine achieves sweet spots of different alcohol levels, where everything is in balance i.e. the fruit and acidity say at 13.8% alcohol but maybe not at 13.9%.
The concept of "airroir" is fascinating and something I want to explore more in the wines I taste in terms of their influences.
Joel’s story about tasting wines as a child and learning to identify aromas, not just apples, but the type of apples by smelling and eating them. That’s how we all can learn to be better sniffers and tasters.
The story of Ravenswood name, including all of the raven folklore in Poe and Odin.

About Joel Peterson

In 1976 Joel founded Ravenswood in partnership with fellow wine lover Reed Foster, a Harvard MBA who handled the green stuff while Joel oversaw the red stuff. In the ensuing years, Joel had dual careers, working nights and weekends in the lab as he built the winery during the daylight hours. In 1977, he’d left his job in San Francisco and moved to Sonoma to work in the clinical lab at Sonoma Valley Hospital. He didn’t quit that job until 1992, a few years after the winery turned its first profit and Robert Parker pronounced Ravenswood wines “first class – bold, dramatic and complex.”

Today, Joel works with 100+ northern California growers who provide grapes for Ravenswood, consulting on irrigation methods, cultivation practices, cropping levels, and a slew of other vineyard management issues. This attention in the field, coupled with the fact that Ravenswood is one of the few wineries that has had the philosophical and winemaking skill of one winemaker for over 30 years, contributes to a consistency of quality and style rarely found in California.

Joel is a current member and former president of the Sonoma Valley Vintners and Growers Alliance (S.V.V.G.A.) and is on the Board of Directors for the Sonoma County Vintners. He is a founding Board member and former two-time President of Zinfandel Advocates and Producers (Z.A.P.). Joel is also a Senior Vice President with Constellation Wines US.

A rakish raconteur (and provocateur) whose erudition and down-to-earth enthusiasm make him an articulate spokesman for the winery (and sometime-heckler of the wine industry), Joel is a stylistic trendsetter who helped make Zinfandel the runaway phenomenon it is today. Along the way, the raven maven (dubbed “the Godfather of Zin” by one media wag) has built a legacy of enjoying wine with grins and gusto.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/104.

103: The Connected Table with Melanie Young and David Ransom Nov 18, 2020

How did my first sip of "fancy wine" jump-start my thirst for wine knowledge and experiences? Why is this a perfect time for you to take an online wine course? Why is it hard to pair certain vegetables, like asparagus, with wine? What juicy, behind-the-scenes insights will you read in my upcoming third book? What's it like being a woman in the wine world?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed on The Connected Table with Melanie Young and David Ransom.

Highlights

Why did my first sip of "fancy wine" start my thirst for wine knowledge and experiences?
How did I get started with Highland dancing?
Which aspects of dancing have helped me to develop as a wine writer?
Can wine help you to connect the various aspects of a liberal arts education?
Why is this a perfect time for you to take an online wine course?
Why will you find it hard to pair certain vegetables, like asparagus, with wine?
Which wine should you choose to perfectly complement difficult to pair vegetables?
How can my online food and wine pairing course help you to improve your wine skills?
What juicy, behind-the-scenes insights will you read in my upcoming third book?
What's it like being a woman in the wine world?
Which amazing Canadian food and wine pairing do you have to try?
Which iconic Canadian wineries should you visit on your next trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake?
What wine regions would make the ultimate cross-border pairing in wine travel?

About Melanie Young and David Ransom

Melanie says her first wine education event was at the age of 15. “My dad was a wine educator in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for more than 30 years and taught me to taste and drink both well and responsibly. For a public speaking class at my high school, I decided to teach fellow students how to open and serve a bottle of wine. I came to school that day wearing my tastevin around my neck and carrying a bottle of wine. A lineup of teachers stood in the back of the classroom watching me with interest as I started to demonstrate my special skill. The thing is, being underage, they would not let me open the wine!”

Melanie’s articles on wine, spirits, food and travel have been published in Wine4Food, The Epoch Times, Wine Enthusiast, Seven Fifty Daily, Jewish Week and several food industry trade outlets. Melanie is a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, the Wine Media Guild. She has spoken and/or moderated panels on career reinvention, building your brand and women in the industry.

David’s story in wine began with his father’s love of wine leading to the family buying a winery in New York State in the 1980s. “We all jumped in together and started Rivendell in 1987,” says David, “and I got to name it.” Rivendell, named after the House of the Elves in J.R.R. Tolkein’s The Lord of the Rings, went on to become New York’s top award-winning winery while the Ransom family owned it, getting top honors from critics, as well. Outside the winery business, David has been involved in the education, promotion and marketing of wines and spirits across the country for over 30 years.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/103.

102: Nova Scotia's Secret Star Wine Power with Benjamin Bridge's Jean Benoit Deslauriers Nov 11, 2020

Where can you find one of the Canadian wine industry's best-kept secrets? How does the dynamic Bay of Fundy impact the flavours you taste in wines from the Gaspereau Valley? Which Benjamin Bridge wine will you find on Gordon Ramsey's restaurant wine list? Why do regional pairings of food and wine work?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jean Benoit Deslauriers, Head Winemaker at Benjamin Bridge.

Highlights

Where can you find one of the Canadian wine industry's best-kept secrets?
How does the climatic dynamic of the Bay of Fundy impact the flavours you'll taste in wines from the Gaspereau Valley?
Which Benjamin Bridge wine would you find on Gordon Ramsey's restaurant wine list?
What creates the bubbly effect you experience with sparkling wines?
Is there a specific role that you'll see sommeliers play in the wine world?
Which process is responsible for the consistent, signature style you expect from Champagne?
Can you tap into some of Benjamin Bridge's oldest wines in an affordable way?
What flavour profile can you expect from Benjamin Bridge Non Vintage Brut?
Why should you aim for regional connections when pairing food and wine?
Why is Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 a great choice for you to match with foods that are difficult to pair with wine?
What makes the Benjamin Bridge Riesling a great example of their signature foundation of freshness?
How do Nova Scotia wines achieve both the richness and freshness you taste in their wines?
Why should you think of Nova Scotia as "the little wine region that could"?
What makes Tidal Bay an appellation wine?
What sort of profile should you expect from Benjamin Bridge Brut?
Why should you join the BB Club?
Which wine motivated Jean-Benoit to break his piggy bank as a fifth grader?
When did Jean-Benoit realize he wanted to have a career in wine?

About Jean Benoit Deslauriers

In 2008, Jean-Benoit joined the Benjamin Bridge winemaking team in time to release his first Canadian wine, Nova 7 by Benjamin Bridge. Since then he has crafted all of the winery’s classic method sparkling wines and its still wines, in consultation with Peter Gamble (the winery’s lead consultant) and the late Raphaël Brisbois (its sparkling wine specialist and former chef de cave of Piper-Heidseick).

Originally from Québec, Jean-Benoit began his winemaking apprenticeship at VOE (Vinedos Organicos Emiliana), a biodynamic vineyard/winery in Chile’s Colchagua Valley, which was created by one of Chile’s largest producers, Vina Santa Emilina, to produce exceptional wines.

Having mostly worked in California, he made wine at Casa Barranca (2004-2008), the first certified organic winery in Santa Barbara County. In California, his winemaking efforts garnered accolades and standout reviews from Robert Parker and Steven Tanzer (90+). Since 2008, Jean-Benoit’s winemaking has elevated Benjamin Bridge’s wine programs to new heights with consistent 90-95+ scores and unanimous high praise from the nation’s leading wine critics along with growing international recognition.

About Benjamin Bridge

In little more than a decade, Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself by its dedication to time-proven techniques, expert guidance, and most importantly its acclaimed, distinctive wines.

The Benjamin Bridge vineyards are located in the heart of the Gaspereau Valley on the Bay of Fundy, where the cool climate bears an uncanny affinity with the Champagne region of France. Our experienced winemakers work in collaboration with international experts to produce world-class Méthode Classique sparkling wines and limited edition luxury wines.

Their innovative sparkling wines display the hallmarks of classic prestige cuvées from Champagne, but with a Nova Scotia signature. “They are, without question, the best sparkling wines I have tasted in Canada,” says Tony Aspler, Canada’s most renowned wine authority. Their collection of handcrafted fine wines, including perennial sell-out Nova 7, together with our sparkling wine program, have helped raise the profile of Nova Scotia terroir and its winemaking in Canada and internationally.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/102.

101: Niagara-on-the-Lake Wineries Adapt to Covid with Andrea Kaiser Nov 04, 2020

What's it like harvesting grapes in sub-zero temperatures? Is there really any difference between a vineyard on one side of the road and a vineyard on the other? Is this a good time for you to visit a winery? What's changed with Covid? How does the Taste the Season at Home initiative allow you to support local wineries?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Andrea Kaiser, Chair for the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake and Director of Marketing at Reif Estate Winery.

Highlights

What's it like being part of an Icewine harvest without automation?
Which harvest tradition did Andrea start while embracing the Great Indoors?
How did Karl Kaiser's wine press end up breaking during a particularly cold harvest?
As a wine consumer, how does the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) benefit you?
Is there really much of a difference between geographically close appellations?
How can Russian nesting dolls help you understand appellations?
What's Andrea's earliest memory with wine?
Why shouldn't you feel intimidated by wine?
Why should you look forward to 2020 wines from Niagara-on-the-Lake?
How have Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries evolved their customer experience during the pandemic?
Is this a good time for you to visit a winery?
What precautions are Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries taking to prioritize health and safety?
Why should you make a reservation to enjoy holiday treats at Drea's Wine Co.?
How has the demand for online sales changed in recent months?
How can you take advantage of the wider selection of wines available online versus in the LCBO?
How does the Taste the Season at Home initiative allow you to bring the winery experience into your home?
What resources can you find on the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake website?
How can you learn more about the story of winemaking in Niagara-on-the-Lake?
What are the most famous wines you'd want to try from each of the sub-appellations of Niagara-on-the-Lake?
How do the climatic and geological features you experience affect the growing potential of Niagara-on-the-Lake?
Why should you be especially proud of the Canadian wine industry?
What can you expect from Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries in 2021?

About Andrea Kaiser

Andrea Kaiser grew up in Niagara-on-the-Lake amidst a transformation ignited by her father’s vision in winemaking. Karl J. Kaiser was none other than co-founder and winemaker of Inniskillin Wines, that revolutionized an industry. He is considered by many to be the pioneer of modern winemaking in Canada. His pursuit of creating exceptional wine revolutionized local viticulture and grape growing sparking a transformation in winemaking.

As the daughter of Karl, she had the unique opportunity to see first-hand the birth of an industry but also an iconic Canadian brand. His influence on her was also great. She was inspired by his vision and his absolute commitment to excellence in winemaking. Her father also understood the value of authenticity and taught her that above all else, it is the foundation of all things exceptional.

While her father’s ultimate career path was born of his passion, like Andrea’s own, it began as a winding road that was cemented by serendipity along the way. Her father first intended to become a priest, was then a teacher and later found his true calling when he by accident, became a winemaker. Andrea’s career began as a restauranteur and along the way she has been a sommelier, politician, writer, teacher, marketer and now winemaker. She recently launched Drea’s Wine Co., making wines in memory of her father, who affectionately called her ‘Drea’.

Andrea’s deep passion for local food and wine has been the common thread in her career path. Her incredible journey has provided her with an insight and a depth of understanding not only of her community and country but a global industry. You could say she was born into a life of food and wine and now shares this passion with others.

About Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to some of the oldest and most established wine-producing vineyards in Canada. Our wineries have been growing and producing world-class wines from vinifera varietals for more than four decades. The efforts of pioneer winemakers in this region were instrumental in propelling Canada onto the world’s wine stage and positioning Niagara-on-the-Lake as a premium wine-growing region.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/101.

100: Moms Sipping Sangria and Talking Wine with Sheila Walsh and Anita MacArthur Oct 28, 2020

What’s the quickest way to chill a bottle of wine? How can the lemon and butter test help you pair wine with food? Which wines should you use for sangria? And why are online wine courses surging in popularity?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm being interviewed by Sheila and Anita for the Moms Sipping Sangria podcast.

Highlights

Which hilariously named Sangria recipe should you try today?
How did an unintentional restaurant order spark my passion for wine?
Which aspects of Pinot Noir will you find especially inviting?
Why should you serve Pinot Noir in a big glass?
What red wine components might give you a headache?
What influences your buying decisions when shopping for wine?
How can you safely expand your wine horizons the next time you go to a store or restaurant?
Are there certain things you should consider before ordering the house wine?
What do you need to know about low-cal wines?
What's my take on homemade wine?
Why should you consider giving canned and Tetra Pak wines a try?
Should you always serve wine at room temperature?
Are there advantages to you taking a wine and food pairing class online versus in person?
What simple tip can you apply to improve your wine and food pairing today?
How can you use the "wet t-shirt trick" to quickly cool a bottle of white wine?
What are your best bets for choosing wine for Sangria?
How should you drink Rosé?

About Moms Sipping Sangria

Long-time friends Sheila Walsh and Anita Reynolds MacArthur are experts on parenting tweens, teens, and young adults. What makes them experts? For starters, they are each raising three children (yep, that’s SIX kids combined!) ranging in age from 11-21. Although they are in the trenches trying to raise good human beings while managing full-time careers, they appear to be surviving the teen years (knock on wood!).

Anita is the former Senior Editor for Lifestyle & Parenting at Walmart.ca. She is a Digital/Print Content Specialist with extensive experience in Educational Publishing K-12. Sheila is a professional Broadcaster, voice talent and Media Professor at The Faculty of Media and Creative Arts at Humber College.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/100.

99: Family-Run Wineries v Corporate-Owned? Henry of Pelham's Daniel Speck Oct 21, 2020

What was it like being part of the budding Niagara wine scene? Why are wineries so well-suited to be family-owned? How does the terroir of the Niagara bench influence what you taste in Henry of Pelham wines? Why is Henry of Pelham so well-known for their Baco Noir? What hidden message can you find on the label of Henry of Pelham Family Tree wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Daniel Speck of Niagara's Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery.

Highlights

How was Daniel's experience as a child and helping with the family winery?
What was it like being an active part of the budding Niagara wine scene?
How did a particularly long day with the vines shift Daniel's perspective on his work in the vineyard?
What was Daniel's least favourite aspect of growing up at the family farm and winery?
What differences can you find between family-owned and corporate wineries?
Why would you find that wineries are well-suited for being family-owned?
Are there aspects of a winery that you'd find a bad fit in the corporate world?
How does the terroir of the Benches influence what you taste in the wines produced in the region?
What can you expect in a tasting experience with Henry of Pelham Estate Chardonnay and Sibling Rivalry?
What hidden message can you find on the label of Henry of Pelham Family Tree wine?
What price point range will you find when shopping for Henry of Pelham wines?
Why do you know Henry of Pelham for Baco Noir from Niagara?
How does the evolution of Baco Noir translate to what you taste in the glass?
Why should you try the Baco Noir version of a "tequila shooter"?
What history is behind what you experience with the Henry of Pelham Family Tree Red?

About Daniel Speck

Daniel is co-owner and one of three brothers who, as children, shovel planted the modern-day vineyards that became Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery in Niagara’s Short Hills Bench. The Speck brothers founded the winery with their parents, a family venture which began in 1984.

Daniel spent the years from age 8 to 22 in the vineyards. He studied philosophy, math and science at St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, then returned to work on the farm/winery upon graduation. After fourteen vineyard-years he migrated from the farm to the marketplace when a key salesperson left the company. Today he is Vice President, Sales and Marketing. Daniel actively promotes and sells his family’s wines while still participating in determining each wine’s final composition with his two older brothers and the winemakers.

Daniel has received partnership awards from the LCBO; has sat on various sales and marketing committees with the Wine Council of Ontario, and is now a member of the CCOVI Outreach Committee at Brock University helping determine future educational needs for the wine industry. Daniel actively promotes and sells his family’s wines but determines each wines final composition with his two older brothers and the winemakers.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/99.

98: The Shape of Wine Taste with Australia's Wakefield Wines Oct 14, 2020

How can you visualize the taste of wine in a chart? How would those charts be different for Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Shiraz? What makes the wines from Australia's Clare Valley unique? What is bâtonnage and what flavours and aromas will result in the wine? How does acidity improve your tasting experience? Why is balance one of the most critical aspects of a great wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Justin Taylor and Neil Hadley of Australia's Wakefield Wines.

Highlights

What was it about Wakefield Wines 2011 vintage that brought Justin to tears?
Which stunning Wakefield Wine was born from the 2011 disaster?
How did Neil end up tasting Wakefield Wine with a buyer at a motorway stop?
What gives the vineyard at Clare its x-factor?
Why does the cool break at night improve the integrity of the grapes?
How does the unique Clare Valley terroir show up when you're tasting Wakefield Wines?
What properties will you notice in Wakefield Wines as a result of their terroir?
What inspired the creation of the Wakefield Wines flavour charts?
How can you use the Wakefield charts when tasting Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Shiraz?
What would you notice when tasting a warm-climate Chardonnay which has been oaked?
Which French influences can you find in Wakefield Chardonnay?
What is bâtonnage and what flavours and aromas will you notice in wine made using this technique?
What foods should you pair with Wakefield Chardonnay?
Are there certain foods you should avoid pairing with Chardonnay?
How does acidity improve your tasting experience?
What distinguishing characteristics should you pick up in a high-quality dry Riesling?
How does the maturation of a Riesling impact it's tasting profile?
What is meant by a "long finish"?
How can you differentiate between a cool climate and a warm climate Shiraz?
What tricky flavours can you pick up with Wakefield Shiraz?
What makes Wakefield Shiraz feel more elegant and refined to you versus other Australian Shiraz?
Why is balance one of the most critical aspects of a great wine?
Can you zero in on the nuances of the different types of wine?
What tasting experience can you expect with Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon?
Where do the notes of mint in Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon come from?
How does the ageing of Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon impact it's tasting profile?
What foods should you pair with Wakefield Cabernet Sauvignon?
Will the 2020 Australian wildfires have an impact on wine regions?
How can you support Australian winemakers during this difficult period?

About Justin Taylor and Neil Hadley

Justin was one of six kids growing up in the Taylor household in Sydney’s Rose Bay under the watchful eye of their mother Loretta and father Bill Taylor Jr. – one of the original founding family members of Wakefield Wines. A natural salesman, Justin is noted as the loudest and jovial one of the bunch. He graduated from the prestigious Cranbrook boy’s school in 1988 and loved spending weekends on the rugby field.

In 1997, the Taylor family welcomed third-generation family member Justin Taylor into the family business. Since then, Justin has been pivotal in introducing Wakefield Wines to wine drinkers all over the world. Justin started his professional career at Wakefield serving a three-year apprenticeship of types working as a sales representative in the Western Suburbs of Sydney. Justin has completed the Wine Society Advanced Wine Appreciation Certificate, Advanced Wine Marketing at TAFE and the Wine Executive Program through the Monash University of Melbourne.

In 2000, Justin was promoted to the role of National Sales Manager in Australia. Over the following eight years the company’s domestic market share doubled, as did the size of the domestic sales team and the portfolio of wines that were being offered to the public in Australia, as Justin said “it was definitely a very fun time to be part of the Wakefield Wines team, we worked very hard and achieved very satisfying results.” After a visit to Australia in the late 80s, he decided Sydney would become home and pursued numerous roles in sales and marketing with prestigious brands like Rosemount Estate, Penfolds and Villa Maria in New Zealand.

Today at Wakefield Wines, Neil manages the export portfolio of the 50-year wine company along with third-generation Export Manager and Company Director Justin Taylor. His main regions of responsibility include the United Kingdom and Europe, North America and South America. When not jet setting on behalf of Wakefield, Neil is an avid traveller himself. He cites trekking the foot of Mount Everest, dam-building for Masai tribes-people in Kenya and driving around Australia in a ‘Kingswood’ amongst his more memorable journeys around the world.

Neil Hadley MW joined Wakefield Wines as General Manager, Export in early 2007. With more than 30 years of industry trade experience, Neil is key to developing and executing international sales and marketing strategies around the world for Wakefield Wines. His career in fine wine began in the early 80s as a wine retailer in England. Determined to understand the wine shelves of Lay & Wheeler, Neil dove straight into WSET training, later moving on to become one of the youngest members initiated as a prestigious Master of Wine in 1993.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/98.

97: Taco Bell's New Jalapeño Noir Wine: Should You Try It? Oct 07, 2020

Taco Bell just launched its first wine called Jalapeño Noir, a Pinot Noir, get it? Is the wine any good? Should you try it? Does it pair well with tacos? What will surprise you about making the wine, especially the winery that made it? What was the stealth marketing plan behind the launch? What's next, Big Macs and Bordeaux?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm going solo to do a live taste test for you. You can find the Jalapeno Noir wine here.

Highlights

How well did Taco Bell's new Jalapeño Noir wine perform at its launch?
What was my first impression when I heard Jalapeño Noir announced?
What might surprise you about the making of Jalapeño Noir?
Why would you usually enjoy cheddar paired with Cabernet Sauvignon?
Is there a preferred order in which you should taste wine and food?
What purple prose will you find on the label of Taco Bell's Jalapeño Noir wine?
Which winery was responsible for producing Taco Bell's Jalapeño Noir wine?
Why should you try Queenston Mile Vineyard's Pinot Noir?
What should you look out for in the tasting of Jalapeño Noir?
Who is the winemaker of Jalapeño Noir?
How does Jalapeño Noir compare to other Pinot Noirs from the same winery?
Why should you use big-bowl glassware with Pinot?
Is it worth it for you to try the Taco Bell pairing of Jalapeño Noir with the Toasted Cheesy Chalupa?
What tasting notes can you expect from the pairing?
Why might you find it difficult to pair wine with spicy food?
Which types of wine can you more easily pair with spicy food?
What flavours will you taste in Wayne Gretzky Estates Whisky Oak Aged Chardonnay?
How do the pairings of the Toasted Cheesy Chalupa with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir differ?
What flavours and aromas will you pick up with barrel-aged wine?
What aspects of Jackson-Triggs Bourbon Barrel Aged Merlot make it a better pairing than Wayne Gretzky Estates Whisky Oak Aged Chardonnay?
Why should you give high/low pairings a chance?
What sort of changes might this wine prompt in the industry?
How do beverages play a key role in restaurants?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/97.

96: Which Wine Pairs Best with Blue Cheese? Janice Beaton Makes the Match Sep 30, 2020

Why are wine and cheese your best bets when entertaining? If you're not a fan of blue cheese, where do you start to acquire a taste for it? How is blue cheese made? Can blue cheese actually have no blue colour? Where should you take a wine-and-cheese themed vacation?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Janice Beaton, owner of Janice Beaton Fine Cheese which was known as Calgary’s best place to buy artisanal, fresh-cut cheeses from around the world.

Highlights

Why are wine and cheese your best bets when entertaining?
What is it about Bleu Bénédictin that makes it a cheese you can be especially proud of as a Canadian?
How can you ease yourself into the world of blue cheese?
Can blue cheese actually have no bluing?
Why should you take a wine and cheese vacation?
Could you pair Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 with blue cheese?
Why does Janice recommend that you try sheep cheese?
How does Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 pair with sheep cheese?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/96.

95: Which Cheeses Go Well With Wine? Janice Beaton Shares Pairings Sep 23, 2020

Why does cheese, like wine, spark obsession? Why do certain wines and cheeses have a similar flavour profile? What makes Canadian cheeses unique? Do different types of cows' milk produce different flavours in cheese? How do you pair goat cheeses with wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Janice Beaton, owner of Janice Beaton Fine Cheese which was known as Calgary’s best place to buy artisanal, fresh-cut cheeses from around the world.

Highlights

How did Janice develop her passion for cheese?
What is it about cheese that sparks our obsession?
What similarities can you find between cheese and wine?
Why might you notice a similar flavour profile between certain wines and cheeses?
What makes Canadian cheeses unique?
How are immigrants an integral part of the Canadian wine and cheese industries?
Why will you get a different flavour profile with Canadian cheeses, even when cheesemakers stay true to the European processes?
How is cheddaring done?
What is clothbound cheese?
Will you taste a difference in cheeses made from different types of cows' milk?
What flavour profile can you expect with Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar?
Which Canadian wine should you try with Avonlea Cheddar?
Can you eat the rind of ash cheese?
How does the flavour of goat cheese change with aging?
What taste notes would you associate with mineral notes in cheese?
Which wines would you enjoy paired with goat cheese?
What causes the crunchy bits you find in some cheeses?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/95.

94: Wine and Principled Persuasion with Dragon’s Den Arlene Dickinson Sep 16, 2020

What would it look like for you to pitch a winery on Dragon's Den versus The Big Decision? What are the creative similarities between writing a book and making a wine? What's the difference between being financially versus creatively invested in a company? What are the three pillars of principled persuasion in business and life?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Arlene Dickinson, one of Canada’s top entrepreneurs who has had phenomenal success in many fields, from television to books and consultancy to consumer products.

Highlights

How can you use the three pillars of principled persuasion?
What huge advantage do women have as entrepreneurs?
Why is it especially important to take yourself seriously as a young woman in business?
What would it look like for you to pitch a winery on Dragon's Den versus The Big Decision?
How can the Canadian wine industry market itself more effectively?
How do Arlene's products afford you access to small indulgences?
What would Kevin O'Leary be like as a wine?
Can you make any parallels between the creative processes of writing a book and making a wine?
Would you see a contrast between how men and women buy wine?
What's the difference when you are financially versus creatively invested in a company?
Why did Arlene choose to start with a Cabernet blend for Persuasion?
What can you expect from the Persuasion tasting profile?
What broad differences has Arlene observed in how men and women present themselves in business?
Why does Arlene believe her biggest influence in business didn't come from a mentor?
How did Arlene learn about high-end wine?
Which parts of the wine world are Arlene's favourite?

About Arlene Dickinson

Arlene Dickinson is the General Partner of District Ventures Capital, a venture capital fund focused on helping market, fund and grow entrepreneurs and their companies, in the food and health space.

She is a three-time best-selling author and accomplished public speaker. Dickinson is widely recognized for her role as a Dragon/Venture Capitalist for over 12 seasons on the multi-award-winning television series, Dragons Den.

Ms. Dickinson’s leadership has been recognized many times, including Canada’s Most Powerful Women Top 100 Hall of Fame, the Pinnacle Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence, as well as PROFIT and Chatelaine’s Top 100 Women Business Owners. She is a Marketing Hall of Legends inductee and a proud recipient of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Award. Dickinson has served for many years as an Honourary Captain in the Royal Canadian Navy. She sits on several public and private boards and is actively involved in supporting the community and country.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/94.

93: Master of Wine vs Master Sommelier? Jane Masters Reveals the Difference Sep 09, 2020

What's the difference between a Master of Wine (MW) and a Master Sommelier (MS)? How can you take advantage of your surroundings to become a better wine taster? Is there a benefit to focusing on tasting notes instead of scores? What is involved in each of the stages of the MW exam?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Jane Masters MW, Chairman of the Institute of Masters of Wine and independent consultant for the Opimian Society, Canada’s largest wine buying club.

Highlights

How did other Masters of Wine inspire Jane in her wine career?
What key differences will you find between the Master of Wine (MW) and Master Sommelier (MS) programs?
Which aspects of wine do you learn about in the MW study program?
Why do you need stamina to become an MW?
How long would it take for you to earn the MW designation?
What was the focus of Jane's research when she sat the MW exam?
Are there any particularly interesting or notable holders of the MW?
How can you become a better taster?
How can you take advantage of your surroundings to improve your wine skills?
How does Jane influence the Canadian wine world through the Opimian wine buying club?
What should you expect from an Opimian membership?
How can you benefit from Jane's description and pairing-focused approach to wine?
Which non-wine beverages does Jane find interesting?

About Jane Masters

Jane Masters became a Master of Wine in 1997 and is currently one of 354. She was elected as Chairman of the Institute of Masters of Wine in September 2016. Jane is an independent wine consultant with over 30 years of experience and clients around the world. Her varied background enables her to work in all sectors of the trade including business strategy, quality improvement, sourcing, press & marketing communications, events organization and training.

Having originally trained as a winemaker at the Institute of Oenology in Bordeaux, Jane worked in wine production in France prior to joining the wine buying team at a major UK retailer. After 13 years in UK retail and running the Wine & Drinks Category for Marks & Spencer, Jane set up Mastering Wine in 2004.

A confident and engaging communicator Jane regularly writes about wine and hosts large tasting groups. She has filmed several wine shows and written sections for Jancis Robinson’s Oxford Companion to Wine and Wine Opus. She is a senior panel chair judge for the International Wine Challenge.

Jane has visited all major wine-growing regions around the world and is really excited to be coming back to Chile after many years. She lives between London and Nice in France where she enjoys the food, wine and lifestyle. Her wine experience is complemented by an MBA from London Business School.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/93.

92: Pairing Wine and Cheese Pairings Like a Pro with Laura Werlin Sep 02, 2020

What should you consider when pairing wine and cheese? Why is sparkling wine the perfect pairing for many cheeses? Are there red-flag flavours that signal a bad wine and cheese match? How can you develop your wine and cheese pairing palate? What can you do to make the most of your cheese and wine course when entertaining?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with James Beard award-winning author, Laura Werlin, one of the planet’s most authoritative writers on cheese and cheese and wine pairings.

Highlights

What is the most surprising-but-delicious cheese and wine pairing you need to try?
Why do sparkling wine and goat brie work well together?
How can you identify a soft-ripened cheese?
What should look for when pairing wine and cheese?
What are the three types of cheese and wine pairings you can identify?
Are there red-flag flavours that signal a bad wine and cheese match?
Which wine and cheese pairings should you avoid?
Why should you make sure to have sparkling wine on hand for pairing?
What can you learn about cheese from Laura's books?
How can learning about the different families of cheese simply your life?
What should you pair with Limburger cheese?
Why are you better off pairing cheese with unoaked vs oaked Chardonnay?
What surprising coating will you find on Valencay cheese?
How can you develop your wine and cheese pairing palate?
What role does texture play in wine and cheese pairing?
What rind-related cheese etiquette rule should you always follow?
How can you take advantage of the best part of soft-ripened cheese?
What's the difference between wine scores and cheese ratings?
How is truffle cheese made?
How can you pair sweet wines with cheese?
What can you do to make the most of your cheese and wine course when entertaining?
Why did Laura decide to become a writer, with a focus on cheese?

About Laura Werlin Laura Werlin is one of the country’s foremost authorities on cheese. She is a James Beard award-winning author of six books on the subject, is a sought-after speaker and spokesperson for consumer and trade organizations, and is a frequent television and radio guest. An expert in cheese and wine pairing and in particular American artisan cheese, Werlin received the prestigious James Beard award for her book The All American Cheese and Wine Book. Her book, Laura Werlin’s Cheese Essentials, received a James Beard Award nomination. Her most recent book, Mac & Cheese, Please! focuses on one of America’s favourite comfort foods, while two of her other books, Grilled Cheese, Please!, and Great Grilled Cheese focus on the other. Her groundbreaking first book, The New American Cheese, published in 2000, set the stage for what is the American artisan cheese movement today. Laura has been featured on numerous television and radio segments across the country including Fox & Friends, CNN, QVC, the Martha Stewart Show, the CBS Early Show as well as numerous local television and radio shows. In addition, she has been the subject of instructive yet fun cheese-related videos on the popular website chow.com. She also writes for national magazines including Food & Wine, Sunset, Everyday with Rachael Ray, Culture, Saveur and Cooking Light. Werlin is known for her approachable yet authoritative teaching style and is frequently asked to conduct cheese and wine pairing, cheese education, and cooking classes across the country. She is also a regular instructor at The Cheese School of San Francisco. In addition, she serves as the President of the American Cheese Education Foundation and is a member of the American Cheese Society and Slow Food USA. When she isn’t eating or teaching about cheese, she can be found jogging on the streets of San Francisco, where she lives, or hiking in the mountains, which she loves.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/92.

91: The Wine Bible's Karen MacNeil on Women and Wine Aug 26, 2020

How did The Wine Bible get its name? How was it unlike any wine book of its time? What was it like as a young woman trying to break into the male-dominated New York wine scene in the 1970s? Why are there significantly fewer women than men with the Master Sommelier designation? How does wine help you to immerse yourself in other cultures?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible, former wine correspondent for the Today Show, the first Food and Wine Editor of USA Today, and creator and Chairman Emeritus of the Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies at the Culinary Institute of America in the Napa Valley.

Highlights

Where did the idea to write The Wine Bible come from?
How is The Wine Bible different for you, as a reader, from other comprehensive wine books?
How does wine help you to immerse yourself in other cultures?
Why does hearing the story behind a wine create a more enjoyable experience for you?
What was it like to try to break into the male-dominated New York wine scene in the 1970s?
How can you confidently charge your worth?
Why do you see significantly fewer women than men with the Master Sommelier designation in the US?
What types of roles would you see typically filled by women in the wine industry?
How does the proportion of female executives in the wine industry compare to corporate America?
How has the "Me Too" movement impacted the wine industry?
Why was the naming of Karen's book so emotional?
What hurdle was Karen able to overcome with 8 years of silence?
How does Karen believe some women in the wine world are downplaying themselves?

About Karen MacNeil Karen MacNeil is the only American to have won every major wine award given in the English language. These include the Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year (James Beard Foundation) and the Global Wine Communicator of the Year (International Wine and Spirits Association). In a full-page profile on her, TIME Magazine called Karen “America’s Missionary of the Vine.” In 2018, Karen was named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the Wine Industry. Karen is also the author of the award-winning book, THE WINE BIBLE, the single best-selling wine book in the United States, praised as “The most informative and entertaining book I’ve ever seen on the subject” (Danny Meyer), “Astounding” (Thomas Keller), and “A masterpiece of wine writing…the single best wine book written in years…” (Kevin Zraly). The former wine correspondent for the Today Show, Karen was the host of the PBS series Wine, Food and Friends with Karen MacNeil, for which she won an Emmy. Karen is the creator and editor of WineSpeed, the leading digital “e-letter” in the U.S. for fast, authoritative information about wine. Her articles on wine and food have been published in more than 50 newspapers and magazines including The New York Times, Town & Country, Elle, and Worth. She was the first Food and Wine Editor of USA Today. Karen currently hosts #SipWithKaren, the leading Twitter tasting in the global wine sphere, which each month reaches 20+ million timelines from Indiana to India. Karen’s firm, Karen MacNeil & Company, creates customized corporate events and wine tours around the world for companies and individual groups. Among Karen’s corporate clients are Lexus, Merrill Lynch, Disney, General Electric, UBS, and Singapore Airlines, as well as numerous law and biotech firms. Karen is the creator and Chairman Emeritus of the Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies at the Culinary Institute of America in the Napa Valley, which has been called “the Harvard of wine education.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/91.

90: How to Break Wine & Food Pairing Rules? with Chris Scott Aug 19, 2020

Why should you pair wine to the diner, not the dinner? Do you always have to follow the "rules" when pairing food and wine? Which fun food and wine pairing should you try with your pandemic snacking? How can you develop your aroma vocabulary?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Chris Scott, a U.K.-based sommelier who published the world’s first-ever wine podcast, the UK Wine Show and who, with his wife, Jane also founded ThirtyFifty, a company which offers fun and no-nonsense wine tastings for private and corporate events.

Highlights

Should you care about food and wine pairing?
Why should you pair wine to the diner, not the dinner?
How can you experiment with how different types of food interact with wine?
Do you always have to follow the "rules" when pairing food and wine?
When would you use wine to enhance specific characteristics of your food?
Is food and wine pairing a good place for you to start your wine enthusiast journey?
What surprising wine pairing should you try with your pandemic snacking?
Which aspect of wine learning might take some extra work for you as a novice?
How can you develop your aroma vocabulary?
What comfort food and wine pairing should you try in 2020?

About Chris Scott Chris Scott is an award-winning wine podcaster and presenter who runs wine tasting company called ThirtyFifty and produces a weekly wine podcast, The UK Wine Show, which is consistently ranked in the top 10 Apple Podcasts’ Food & Drink charts. Born and bred in New Zealand, Chris spent time as a student working hands-on in the vineyards of Canterbury before graduating with first-class honours in engineering. In 2001, he moved to London U.K. and now holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits, the top qualification. He now heads up a team of 20 wine experts across the UK, between them running more than 500 corporate events, wine courses and private tastings per year.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/90.

89: Why Should You Take Online Wine & Food Classes? with Chris Scott Aug 12, 2020

Can being a supertaster affect your preferences in alcoholic beverages? Why don't you find a lot of wineries in Ottawa? How do online classes give you an advantage over in-person classes? How is the pandemic impacting the way you buy wine? Why should you buy wine directly from wineries? How can my Wine App help you find the best wine to pair with your food?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Chris Scott, a U.K.-based sommelier who published the world’s first-ever wine podcast, the UK Wine Show and who, with his wife, Jane also founded ThirtyFifty, a company which offers fun and no-nonsense wine tastings for private and corporate events.

Highlights

How did I come around to wine after growing up around whiskey and beer?
Can being a supertaster affect your alcoholic beverage preferences?
What caused me to go from wine enthusiast to wine writer?
How did the worlds of high tech and wine overlap for me?
Why don't you find a lot of wineries in Ottawa?
What type of reading experience can you expect with Red, White and Drunk All Over?
What was it like to win the Louis Roederer 2009 Online Wine Writer of the Year award?
How do online classes give you an advantage over in-person classes?
Why does the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast's focus on storytelling help you learn about wine?
How is the pandemic impacting the way you buy wine?
What types of conversations will you be a part of when joining us on our Facebook wine tastings?
Why should you buy wine directly from wineries?
How can my Wine App help you find the best wine to pair with your food?
Which features of my Wine App will simplify your wine buying process?
Why is my Wine App beneficial for wine enthusiasts worldwide?

About Chris Scott Chris Scott is an award-winning wine podcaster and presenter who runs wine tasting company called ThirtyFifty and produces a weekly wine podcast, The UK Wine Show, which is consistently ranked in the top 10 Apple Podcasts’ Food & Drink charts. Born and bred in New Zealand, Chris spent time as a student working hands-on in the vineyards of Canterbury before graduating with first-class honours in engineering. In 2001, he moved to London U.K. and now holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits, the top qualification. He now heads up a team of 20 wine experts across the UK, between them running more than 500 corporate events, wine courses and private tastings per year.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/89.

88: How Does a Wine's Name Affect How Much You'll Pay for it? with Dr. Antonia Mantonakis Aug 05, 2020

How does the ease with which you can pronounce a winery name affect your perception of both the wine and its price? Are wine experts or novices more likely to assign a higher value to wines with complicated names? How do grape names affect your purchase decisions?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Antonia Mantonakis, Fellow of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute and Professor of Marketing and Consumer Psychology at Brock University's Goodman School of Business in St. Catharines, Ontario.

Highlights

Does a wine's name affect our perception of its taste and quality?
How was Antonia's research study designed to focus on how a winery name affects you?
What impact does the ease of pronunciation of a wine's name have on our pricing expectations?
Why might the effect of this phenomenon on wine enthusiasts surprise you?
Should you be concerned if your winery's name is easy to pronounce?
Why shouldn't you directly apply the results of this study to real-world settings?
What preliminary findings have been identified in how consumers perceive grape varietal names?
How might you unconsciously assess wines like Pfaffenheim?
What can you expect from Pfaffenheim Cuvée Bacchus Le Cave Des Vignerons De Pfaffenheim Gewurztraminer 2010?

About Dr. Antonia Mantonakis Dr. Antonia Mantonakis is a Fellow of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute and a Professor of Marketing and Consumer Psychology at Brock University's Goodman School of Business in St. Catharines, Ontario. She is a psychologist by training and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Toronto, and has both a Masters in Experimental-Cognitive Psychology and a Doctorate in Experimental-Cognitive Psychology from Simon Fraser University. Her research focuses on the psychological factors that affect consumer behaviour and consumer decision making.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/88.

87: Pairing Wine with Sharks, Dragons and Kevin O'Leary Jul 29, 2020

What should you consider when buying wine as an investment? What's the cold, hard truth about the Canadian wine industry? What makes for a successful wine brand launch? Are Kevin O'Leary's wines as great as he says they are?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Kevin O'Leary, prickly merchant of the television shows Dragon's Den and Shark Tank, as well as the founder of O'Leary Fine Wines, O’Leary Funds, and O’Leary Financial Group.

Highlights

What should you consider when buying wine as an investment?
How can you benefit from a "divorce cellar"?
What's the business case for you to invest in the Canadian wine market?
Why does a $14.95 price point allow you to gain market share quickly?
Why does consistency in production create a great experience for you as a wine consumer?
How were the final two wines chosen for the launch of O'Leary Wines?
What key points do you need to nail before pitching your new wine venture?
What's the marketing strategy for the first five years of O'Leary Wines?
What's the cold, hard truth about the Ontario wine industry?
How does O'Leary Unoaked Chardonnay give you an unexpected taste experience?
Which foods pair well with O'Leary Unoaked Chardonnay?
What twist can you add to your whites to make a refreshing summer beverage?
How does having a cork versus screwcap affect your perception of wine?
What can you experience from O'Leary Cabernet Merlot?
Which remarkable wine did Kevin's taste on his first encounter?
How was Kevin introduced to wine?

About Kevin O'Leary After his extraordinary success at the software company he founded – and a difficult period of obstacles and legal disputes – Kevin eventually found himself on television, quickly becoming a sought-after host and personality on a range of shows – including Discovery’s Project Earth, CBC’s Dragons’ Den, and ABC’s Shark Tank. Kevin has since launched O’Leary Funds, an investment fund company; O’Leary Fine Wines; and a best-selling book series on financial literacy. In 2014, Kevin founded O’Leary Financial Group – a group of brands and services that share Kevin’s guiding principles of honesty, directness, convenience, and above all, great value.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/87.

86: How We Buy Wine Based on Secret Retail Triggers with Dr. Tim Dodd Jul 22, 2020

What would surprise us about the way we buy wine? What techniques do wine retailers use to trigger impulse buys in the store? What are the biggest differences between the way men and women buy wine? Why is a direct to consumer sales model beneficial for you as a buyer?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Tim Dodd, James Young Regents Professor of Hospitality Management, and Director of the Texas Wine Marketing Research Institute at Texas Tech University.

Highlights

What was Tim's most iconic wine moment?
What might surprise you about the way we buy wine?
Which characteristics put certain wine stores and restaurants above the rest?
Are there certain questions you should ask wine buyers in order to better help them?
What techniques do retailers use to encourage us to buy wine?
What parallels can you see between the Canadian and Texan wine markets?
How does having a local wine industry affect you as a consumer?
Do wineries with large marketing budgets have a big influence on what you drink?
Why is direct to consumer sales so beneficial for you?
What is the economic argument for direct shipping?
Do men and women tend to have different wine buying habits?
How do men and women respond differently to free tasting and winery tours?
Why should you focus on educating consumers in your marketing?
What's the best piece of wine advice Tim has received?
Who would Tim like to share a glass of wine with?

About Dr. Tim Dodd Tim Dodd is the James Young Regents Professor of Hospitality Management, and Director of the Texas Wine Marketing Research Institute at Texas Tech University. He also serves as the Associate Dean of Administration in the College of Human Sciences. Dr. Dodd worked with the New Zealand grape and wine industry before becoming involved with the Texas industry in the late 1980s. He served as the President of TWGGA in 1996-1997 and was active in a number of other roles within the Association. Tim completed his dissertation work on winery tourism and continues to conduct research on various marketing and economic issues related to wine. He has also published numerous articles concerning wine marketing and winery tourism in a variety of journals and has presented at a number of international conferences.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/86.

85: How Did the Mega-Hit Movie Sideways Change Pinot Noir (and Merlot)? Jul 15, 2020

How did the novel and movie Sideways change the wine market in North America? In the book, the character Miles is portrayed as a wine snob, but what really defines a wine snob? What do you need to know if you want to become a successful writer?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Rex Pickett, author of the mega-hit wine book and movie Sideways.

Highlights

How has time been a great friend to Sideways?
What is it about the characters in Sideways that makes them feel unique to you?
How did wine and California wine country become an important part of Rex's life?
Why does Rex start out with honing in on character and setting in his writing?
What is Rex telling you when he talks about wine snobs?
What is the key difference you can see in the depth of the wine world versus other types of alcohol?
How can you enjoy the purple prose of wine writing?
What change can you see in the red wine market as a result of Sideways?
Why does Rex believe Merlot needed a market correction after it's 1990s popularity?
What can you expect from a bottle of Hitching Post Pinot Noir?
Can you expect a different experience from the Sideways play in comparison to the movie and book?
Where does Vertical fit in with Rex's personal story?
What are Rex's best tips for you as an aspiring writer?

About Rex Pickett

Rex Pickett is the author of the novel Sideways, the multiple award-winning Alexander Payne film of the same title. Sideways captured over 350 critics and awards organization plaudits, including 2 Golden Globes, an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, the prestigious Writers Guild Award, 6 Indie Spirit Awards … and the list goes on. Rex has written and directed two independent feature films, California Without End and From Hollywood to Deadwood (Island Pictures). He wrote the 2000 Academy Award-winning Best Live Action Short My Mother Dreams the Satan’s Disciples in New York.

His Sideways sequel Vertical won the Gold Medal for Fiction from the Independent Publisher Book Awards in 2012. His Sideways 3 Chile forms the final leg of the trilogy. In 2012, Rex adapted his novel into Sideways: the Play. He staged four record-breaking runs, first at Ruskin Group Theatre in Santa Monica where it ran for 6 months, then the La Jolla Playhouse, where it broke all attendance records for a non-musical in their 35-year history, with 3-time Tony Award winner Des McAnuff directing.

In 2017, in collaboration with composer Anthony Adams, Rex turned his attention to the musical version of Sideways. Two years later the Book for the musical is finished, half the songs are composed and recorded, and a 3-time Tony Award-winning musical theater director (to be announced soon) has come on board. There is every likelihood that the “workshop” (or premiere) production will happen in the latter part of 2020.

Rex grew up in southern California, matriculated from the University of California at San Diego (UCSD). He was a Special Projects major, specializing in literary and film criticism, and creative writing. A member of the Writers Guild of America, the Dramatists Guild, and now ASCAP, Rex has enjoyed success in long-form fiction, screenwriting, independent film, and now stage. The Rex Pickett Papers are now enshrined at his alma mater UCSD in Geisel Library’s Special Collections & Archives.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/85.

84: Are Celebrity Athlete Wines Great or Gimmicks? With Dr. Antonia Mantonakis Jul 08, 2020

Are wines named after a sports celebrity any good or is this just a marketing gimmick? Are more gentle sports like golf better suited to marketing a wine than the more rough and tumble world of wrestling? What does research tell us about the effect of celebrity endorsements on your wine-buying behaviour? How does your wine knowledge impact your interpretation of external cues, like celebrity endorsement, when buying wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Antonia Mantonakis, Fellow of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute, Associate Professor of Marketing at the Goodman School of Business, and Associate Faculty of Psychology at Brock University in Niagara, Canada.

Highlights

Why is Antonia's research around wines associated with celebrities relevant to you as a wine consumer?
Is there any overlap when you think of certain sports and wine?
How do you determine how well-matched a sport is to wine?
Which sports had the highest and lowest matches with wine?
How were the final sports categories chosen for the study?
What do the study results suggest about the effect of celebrity endorsements on your wine buying behaviour?
Why do moderately mismatched products and sponsors cause you to pay the most attention?
How does your wine knowledge impact your interpretation of external cues when buying wine?
What wine-related research can you look forward to from Antonia in the near future?
How does the inclusion of a picture change your perception of a wine label?

About Dr. Antonia Mantonakis Dr. Antonia Mantonakis is a Fellow of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute, an Associate Professor of Marketing at the Goodman School of Business, and Associate Faculty of Psychology at Brock University in Niagara, Canada. She is a psychologist by training and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Toronto; and has both a Masters in Experimental-Cognitive Psychology and a Doctorate in Experimental-Cognitive Psychology from Simon Fraser University. Her research focuses on the psychological factors that affect consumer behaviour and consumer decision making.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/84.

83: What's Trending in the Wine World with Darren Oleksyn Jul 01, 2020

What are the hottest wine trends right now? What's the difference between natural wine and orange wine? Are new drinks like blue wine and Pinot Freezio here to stay? How does canned wine hold up to its bottled counterparts? Why has Rosé been able to move from fad to mainstream?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Darren Oleksyn, journalist and author of Uncorked: The Definitive Guide to Alberta’s Best Wines Under $25.

Highlights

How can you differentiate between natural wine and orange wine?
Why does orange wine help you to appreciate white wine?
What similarities might you pick up between orange wine and craft beer
How did natural wine get its start?
How can you be a part of the natural wine community?
What are qvevri and what do you need to know about orange wine's connection to Georgia?
Why should you consider blue wine as more of a marketing fad than a wine trend?
What main ingredients can you find in wine?
Why does Darren think you should have more information about what's in your wine?
How would serving size suggestions on labels benefit you as a wine drinker?
Why do I prefer to buy wine with 13.5% alcohol or less?
Which canned wine should you try?
What wine trends should you keep an eye out for?
Why is natural yeast sometimes trickier to work with than industrial yeast?
Should you feel guilty about adding an ice cube to your wine?
How has the mainstream discovery of Provence Rosé contributed to its upswing in popularity?
Are you likely to encounter fall-related wine trends when the seasons change?
What does the increasing number of appellations and sub-appellations signal to you about the Canadian wine industry?
How do region descriptors on wine labels help you as a consumer?
Are wines from Eastern and Central Europe gaining shelf space in your average liquor store?
Which Canadian Viognier should you add to the top of your must-try list?
What wine mantra is Darren's best advice for you as a wine drinker?
Why is it time for you to ditch the "red wine at room temperature" advice?
Who would Darren love to share a bottle of wine with?
What wine experiment should you try this week?

About Darren Oleksyn

Darren Oleksyn has been working as a journalist for 28 years and writing about wine for the past 7. He works at the Calgary Herald, where he writes a monthly wine column among a variety of duties. He was introduced to wine by his father, who made fruit wines in Saskatchewan. After moving to Calgary in 2004 he became captivated by wine, attending numerous wine events, festivals and completing his WSET Level 3 certification in wine and spirits.

He has travelled to wine regions in Canada, the United States, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and Germany, and has judged at wine competitions in British Columbia and Calgary. In 2013 he wrote Uncorked: The Definitive Guide to Alberta’s Best Wines Under $25 with friend and fellow wine writer Shelley Boettcher.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/83.

82: Bordeaux and China: Wine Culture Clash or Perfect Pairing? Suzanne Mustacich Reveals Surprising Insights Jun 24, 2020

Why is Bordeaux considered the ultimate luxury brand in the world of wine? Why did the Chinese market suddenly start buying Bordeaux wines in the 1980s and 90s? Why does Bordeaux in particular suit the ancient Chinese culture of prestigious gift-giving versus other expensive wines? How does the demand for Bordeaux in China affect both the prices you pay and the styles you drink?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Suzanne Mustacich, author of Thirsty Dragon: China’s Lust for Bordeaux and the Threat to the World’s Best Wines.

Highlights

What fascinated Suzanne about the Chinese wine market?
Can you see a similar effect in other industries where China has become a key player?
What can you learn about the differences in wine and business culture between China and Bordeaux?
What does a bottle of Bordeaux wine go through before it gets to you?
Why was Bordeaux perfectly positioned for the young Chinese market?
How do top brands like Bordeaux draw you in?
Why is wine the perfect product for the aspirational middle class?
Which facts about the China-Bordeaux wine economy might surprise you?
Why is it much more expensive for you to be a wine aficionado in Hong Kong than elsewhere?
Was there a connection between the US recession and increased interest in the Chinese market from Bordeaux?
How have US buying habits changed in relation to high-end Bordeaux wines?
How do Government changes impact on the demand for wine in China?
What changes can you see in the current Chinese wine consumption patterns compared to when Bordeaux was initially
introduced?
What is the taboo around women and wine in China?
How did Suzanne's end up meeting with particularly interesting characters while researching Thirsty Dragon?

About Suzanne Mustacich

Suzanne Mustacich is an author, speaker, journalist, editor and consultant. She is a contributing editor at Wine Spectator magazine and the author of Thirsty Dragon: China’s Lust for Bordeaux and the Threat to the World’s Best Wines. She has a background as a television producer and screenwriter. She recently finished her first novel.

As a print journalist, she has previously reported for Agence France Presse, Wine Life (China), and Wine Business International. She holds a BA from Yale University in Economics and Political Science, the DUAD enology diploma from the University of Bordeaux and an MA in Creative Writing (Crime Fiction) from the University of East Anglia. She lives in Bordeaux with her family.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/82.

81: Tasting Wine Like a Detective with Ontario's Best Sommelier Emily Pearce-Bibona Jun 17, 2020

What does it take to win Ontario’s Best Sommelier competition? What’s it like performing in front of a set of very stern-eyed wine judges and a live audience? What is the smartest question you can ask your sommelier in a restaurant? What is the deductive tasting technique and how can it help you drink better wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Emily Pearce-Bibona, Certified Sommelier and founder of Femmes du Vins.

Highlights

How did Emily go from government employee to sommelier?
What’s aspects of wine are involved in the Ontario’s Best Sommelier competition?
What does it take for you to be named Best Taster?
How do you cope with intense pressure during competition?
How do you train for sommelier competitions?
When should you use a deductive tasting technique?
How can you describe the tasting experience with Flat Rock Cellars Riddled Sparkling wine?
What's the most important rule you should remember when pairing wine and food?
Which questions should you ask your sommelier to get the best wine suggestions for you?
How can you subtly indicate your wine budget to a sommelier?
Why is taking a wine course an important part of expanding your palate and becoming a better taster?
How can a trip to the grocery store improve your wine tasting skills?
Why should you approach learning about wine tasting like you would playing an instrument?
Why does Emily love Burgundy Pinot Noir?
How can you approach improving your tasting vocabulary?
How does Emily train for sommelier competitions?
Why should you try grower's Champagne?
How does Emily handle it when guests send back their wine in her restaurant?
What should you do as a guest if you don't like the wine?
Why does Emily love Ca’ Del Bosco Cuvée Anna Maria Clementi Franciacorta?
What are the top wine tips Emily wants you to remember?

About Emily Pearce-Bibona

Emily is the sommelier at Barberian’s Steak House in Toronto and part of the group Femmes du Vins. After a day-long series of competitive challenges in front of a panel of expert judges, peers and the public, Emily triumphed to win the competition at the Centre for Hospitality & Culinary Arts at George Brown College on March 5, 2017.

Emily began her wine journey in Toronto and is now a Certified Sommelier with the Court of Master Sommeliers. She has worked in top hospitality positions throughout the city. Her passion for learning continues as she pursues the Master of Wine program, offered in the UK. As a contributing writer for Decanter Magazine, Emily writes about the Canadian wine scene.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/81.

80: What's the Rosé Lifestyle? Wine Writer Jill Barth on Why You'd Enjoy It Jun 10, 2020

How did Provence become known as the heartland of Rosé? What does it mean to be part of the Rosé lifestyle? Why should you take a trip to the Provence wine region? Does the colour of Rosé give you a clue into its taste? Which unexpected but mouthwatering food pairing should you try with your next glass of Rosé?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with wine writer Jill Barth, who is also a Provence Wine Master through the Wine Scholar Guild.

Highlights

How can you describe the Rosé lifestyle?
Why is Rosé perfect for you to enjoy year-round?
What tasting profile should you expect with Tavel Rosé?
How did Provence become the heartland of Rosé?
Why will travelling to Provence have you feeling like your inside a storybook?
How do the appellations affect which types of Rosé you can get from Provence?
What does the paleness of Rosé tell you about it?
How can you describe the colour of Rosé, using the official terminology??
What's unique about Oeil de Perdrix?
Why was Jill drawn to focus on Provence in particular?
What Provence and wine-related themes should you expect in Jill's forthcoming novel?
Can you consider all pink wines to equivalent to Rosé?
Why did Chateau d’Esclans’ Whispering Angel Rosé become so popular in Canada?
What unique traits can you look out for on bottles of Rosé?
Why should you consider wine as a barometer of how we live?
How can you pair Rosé with food?
Should you pair poutine with a glass of Rosé?
How does the mistral influence French winemaking?
Why has it never been a better time for you to be a wine enthusiast?
Which less popular wines should you give a try?
How are American wine regions evolving?
How can you take advantage of wine auctions without leaving home?
Why is a decanter Jill's favourite wine gadget?

About Jill Barth

Jill Barth is a writer focused on wine creators – with culture, food, community, ecology, and travel, pivotal to the stories in her contributor column at Forbes digital. She is also a Provence Wine Master through the Wine Scholar Guild and received a fellowship to the Symposium for Professional Wine Writers.

Jill is the founder and author of L’Occasion, a blog that honours the ways we drink, make, and contemplate wine. L’Occasion was awarded the Best Overall and Best Writing from the prestigious Wine Blog Awards and was a finalist for Millesima’s Blog Awards in food and wine pairing. Jill is also a wine country travel expert panellist and contributor for USA TODAY’s 10Best. Her work has appeared in Decanter, Palate Press, Luxe Provence, Courrier International, Provence WineZine, and Perfectly Provence.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/80.

79: Why Sommeliers Love Austrian Gruner Veltliner with Heidi Fisher Pfaffl Jun 03, 2020

Would you like to learn more about Austrian wines, especially its iconic grape, Gruner Veltliner? Do you know why this wine is one of the most versatile wines on the planet? Why should an Austrian Heuriger be on your must-visit list? Which Austrian red wine should you try next?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Heidi Fisher Pfaffl who is in charge of business administration and marketing at her family’s winery, Weingut Pfaffl.

Highlights

How did the Pfaffl grow from a small farm to 110 hectares of vineyards?
Why should an Austrian Heuriger be on your must-visit list?
What aspects of Austrian wine might surprise you?
What’s the meaning behind the name Wein.1?
Can Gruner Veltliner be oaked?
Within what price range can you buy Pfaffl wines?
Why does Gruner Veltliner pair well with such a wide range of foods?
Should you buy a bottle of Gruner Veltliner for your cellar?
What variations would you experience when tasting different Gruner Veltliners?
Why would you probably find pepper spice Gruner Veltliners especially interesting?
Can you buy Pfaffl wines across Canada?
What is Heidi’s favourite food to pair with Gruner Veltliner?
Which characteristics would you taste in a Gruner Veltliner as it ages?
How does the rockiness of the Haidvertel impact the wine?
What was the worst moment in Heidi’s wine career?
What is the best moment from Heidi’s wine career so far?
How do old oak barrels influence the flavour profile you’ll taste with wine?
Why do you need humidity in a wine cellar?
What ancient characteristic influences what you’ll taste with Zeiseneck Gruner Veltliner?
Can you taste differences between the wines produced north or south of the Danube?
How did Gruner Veltliner become the darling of New York sommeliers?
Which Austrian red wine should you try next?
What foods should you pair with a glass of Zwiegelt?
What is the tasting experience with Pfaffl’s entry-level wine, Wein.2?
How does St. Laurent differ from other grapes?
How does Zwiegelt compare to Pinot Noir?

About Heidi Fisher Pfaffl

Heidi Fisher Pfaffl is in charge of her family’s winery, Weingut R&A Pfaffl, along with her brother, Roman, who is the winemaker and vineyard manager. Heidie takes care of everything else, from business administration to marketing and sales. Pfaffl Winery is one of Austria’s leading wine producers and was recently named European Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Their vineyards are distributed around the village of Stetten in the Weinviertel and in neighbouring Vienna. Due to the numerous vineyards and their diversity, they are able to produce a broad spectrum of wine styles.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/79.

78: Why are Nova Scotia's Tidal Bay and L'Acadie Blanc Signature Wines? May 27, 2020

What do you need to know about Nova Scotia’s signature grape, L'Acadie blanc? What is Tidal Bay and why is it Canada's first stylistic appellation? Why is one Nova Scotia winery burying barrels of wine underground? Which travel tips should you keep in mind when you visit Nova Scotia wineries?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm chatting with Amy Savoury, a certified sommelier and instructor of culinary and tourism studies at the Nova Scotia Community College.

Highlights

Why can you taste many different fruit flavours in some wines?
How much are you contributing to the economy by buying Canadian wine?
What do you need to know about Nova Scotia’s signature grape, L'Acadie blanc?
How can you experience the creative spirit of winemakers through Tidal Bay wines?
Which grapes will you encounter in Tidal Bay wines?
How did the Tidal Bay standards first come about?
Would you find organic wines from Nova Scotia?
Can you buy Nova Scotia wines in the LCBO?
Why should you add your voice to the Free My Grapes movement?
Where can you find the grape growers who supply Nova Scotia wineries located?
What contribution do Nova Scotia growers make to job creation?
Which types of wine can you enjoy from Nova Scotia wineries?
Why is one Nova Scotia winery burying barrels of wine underground?
Why should you visit Luckett Vineyards?
What might you be getting wrong about Nova Scotia wine?
How did unexpectedly low temperatures in Spring 2018 impact Nova Scotia wineries?
What flavour profile and food pairings can you expect with Lightfoot & Wolfville’s Ancienne Chardonnay, Avondale Sky
Lady Slipper, Planters Ridge Rosé and Benjamin Bridge Nova 7?
Why should you take a trip to a Nova Scotia winery?
How did Amy become intrigued by the world of wine?
When did Amy fall in love with Nova Scotia wine?

About Amy Savoury

Amy Savoury is a certified sommelier and instructor of culinary and tourism studies at the Nova Scotia Community College. She leads tastings of Nova Scotia wines for restaurant staff around the province as well as other educational seminars on behalf of “Taste of Nova Scotia” through the support of the Department of Agriculture.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/78.

77: The Use (and Abuse) of Wine Scores with Vino Mike and Pete on That Wine Pod May 20, 2020

How does the 100 point scale make wine scores easier for you to interpret? How can you drink better wines by finding a wine critic whose style you like? How does grade inflation affect you as a wine lover? Why is taking an online wine course often better than an in-person course?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm sharing a conversation I originally had with Pete & Vino Mike on their podcast, That Wine Pod.

Highlights

What’s my take on the best wine?
Why should you look at organic and biodynamic wines on a spectrum?
How does the 100 point scale make wine scores easier for you to interpret?
Do wine scores on the 100 point scale correlate with typical school grading scales?
Why did I wait until 5 years into my wine writing career to start scoring wine?
How can you benefit from finding a wine critic whose style you like?
How do I choose which wines to rate?
Why has wine scoring become the norm?
How does grade inflation affect you as a wine lover?
Do you need to pay attention to wine critics?
What impact has social media had on your access to wine writers?
How do you learn about wine in my online course?
What benefits do you get from an online wine course over an in-person course?
Which interesting wine and cheese pairings will you learn about in my upcoming course?
What do I wish I could change about the wine world?
When should you follow your wine with eggs?

About Pete and Vino Mike

Pete has been in the wine industry for over 15 years as a wine retail store manager, owner, and strategic consultant in the thriving Chicago food and beverage industry. He has three kids, is a long-distance runner and coach, and hosts other podcasts including the FatMan Chronicles, The No Fear Project, and Be Better Today.

Michael Matonte aka Vino Mike has more than twenty years experience as a fine dining manager and wine retail store manager also in Chicago. He passed the Court of Master Sommeliers challenging Advanced Sommelier exam in 2009. He’s the father of one son and plays the trumpet, trombone and euphonium.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/77.

76: Wine Girl Reveals the Wine World's Dark Side and Hope for the Future with Sommelier Victoria James May 13, 2020

What’s it like serving wine to celebrities like Mariah Carey, Jay-Z, Beyonce and Miley Cyrus? How is being a sommelier different when you work at a Michelin-starred restaurant, especially when you're just 21 years old? Why is the wine world still largely an old boys club and how does that impact the wines you drink? Which shocking ingredients might you find in some non-organic wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with Victoria James, author, restauranteur and the youngest person in the world to pass the certified sommelier exam with the Court of Master Sommeliers.

Highlights

What’s it like managing celebrity clientele while working in the upscale restaurant industry?
What was the most expensive bottle of wine Victoria has ever sold?
Why was Victoria's Christmas season encounter with Mariah Carey so bizarre?
How can you build yourself up and create your own sense of importance?
Which shocking ingredients might you find in some non-organic wines?
What is it like for you to work at a Michelin starred restaurant at 21 years old?
Why did Victoria want to reclaim the term “wine girl”?
How did the Me Too Movement play a role in getting Wine Girl written?
Was Victoria aware of the impact Wine Girl would make, especially on women?
Why did Victoria decide to write her memoir even though she’s still in her 20s?
Will you see people’s real names in Victoria's memoir?
How has Wine Girl positively impacted readers?
Why were the potential negative implications of putting her story out there were totally worth it for Victoria?
What type of insidious effects do women in the wine and restaurant worlds often experience after going public with their stories?
Is diversity well-represented in the wine and restaurant industries?
What is the impact on you as a restaurant diner when wine lists are curated by the old boys’ club?
What will you learn about rosé from reading Drink Pink?
How is COTE restaurant adapting to changes caused by the pandemic?
What new wine experiences can you have when you order COTE for delivery?
How can you keep yourself from going stir-crazy while sheltering in place?
What new innovations will you experience with a book tour during the pandemic?

About Victoria James

Victoria James is the Beverage Director and Partner at COTE and recently received a James Beard nomination for "Outstanding Wine Program." She has worked in restaurants since she was thirteen, fell in love with wine and when she was twenty-one became certified as a sommelier. She has worked at some of the most prestigious restaurants in New York City including Marea and Aureole.

Victoria’s name has appeared on many notable lists: Forbes "30 Under 30," Food & Wine's "2018 Sommelier of the Year," Zagat’s “30 Under 30,” Wine Enthusiast’s “40 Under 40,” Wine & Spirits’ “Best New Sommeliers,” and The Back Label declared her “New York’s Youngest Sommelier.”

She is the author of DRINK PINK, A Celebration of Rosé (2017, HarperCollins) and the upcoming book WINE GIRL (March 2020, Ecco/HarperCollins). She also has a print column for Forbes magazine, "Buy, Hold, Sell," and has contributed to Cosmopolitan, Munchies and Bon Appétit.

Along with COTE's General Manager (Amy Zhou) and Events Director (Cynthia Cheng), she has founded WINE EMPOWERED, a non-profit that aims to diversify the hospitality industry by offering free wine classes to women and minorities.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/76.

75: Niagara Vine Laureate Klaus Reif: Ontario Wine's Future May 06, 2020

What profound impact does buying your local wine have on your economy? Why will supporting the "Free My Grapes" campaign improve your choice and access to wine? How have Ontario wines changed since the 80s? What are the biggest challenges facing the Canadian wine industry?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with Klaus Reif of Niagara-on-the-Lake's Reif Winery.

Highlights

How is the younger generation of Ontario winemakers impacting the industry?
How has the perception of Ontario wines changed since the 80s?
What are the four stages in the evolution of Niagara winemaking?
What can you look forward to on a visit to Reif winery?
As a wine lover, why should you try Vinea Liqueur?
How can you make a Vinea Royale?
Where can you get a bottle of Vinea?
What new developments should you look out for on the Ontario wine scene?
What are the biggest challenges facing the Ontario wine industry?
How does "Free My Grapes" help Canadian wine lovers and winemakers?
Why should you support your local wine industry?
What filet mignon and smoked salmon wine pairings are must-try according to Klaus?
Why is marketing critical in the wine world?
Why do you have to be careful when using an aerator with old wine?
How do Niagara winemakers work together as an industry?
What were the four phases of Ontario winemaking from Klaus’ perspective?
Why did Robert Mondavi approach Klaus in London?
Which race car driver would Klaus love to share a bottle of wine with?
Which wine gadget is Klaus’ single most important tool?

About Klaus Reif

Klaus Reif, of Reif Vineyards in Niagara, comes from twelve generations of winemaking. He grew up on a family vineyard in Germany but in 1978, he visited his uncle Ewald who had started a winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Klaus loved the region, so after completing oenology studies at several respected institutions, he returned in 1987 to take over winemaking at his uncle’s winery. In 1989, winemaker Roberto Didomenico joined him, and Klaus is now president of the winery, though he stays active in the winemaking.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/75.

74: Dr. Laura Catena on Malbec, Wine's Health Benefits and Winemaking in Argentina Apr 29, 2020

Have you tasted an Argentine Malbec? Which foods pair best with Malbec? Why is Malbec more like Pinot Noir than Cabernet? What are the health benefits of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with Dr. Laura Catena, a fourth-generation Argentine vintner, physician and author.

Highlights

How does Laura's scientific approach to winemaking improve the taste of the Malbecs you drink?
What is the significance of the pyramid-style of the Catena winery?
Why is Malbec the flagship grape of Argentina?
What differences can you see in the popularity of Argentine wine over the past two decades?
What flavours do you taste in Catena Malbec and Cabernet Franc?
Why is Malbec so easy for you to pair with a wide variety of foods?
What will you learn from Vino Argentino on your journey as a wine enthusiast?
How does Vino Argentino help you to but Argentine wines and pair them with food?
How does Laura describe her first hundred-point wine, Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae Malbec?
What aspects of the Fortuna Terrae parcel lead to cellar-worthy wines?
Why is your Torrontes taste experience uniquely Argentine?
Can you taste a difference with high altitude wines?
How can you explore new regions through the Appellation line of wines?
What advice does Laura have about wine and your health?
Why does moderation look different for each person?
When did Laura realize she wanted to join the family winery despite her medical career?
How did El Nino cause the worst moment of Laura’s winemaking career?
What was the best moment of Laura’s winemaking career so far?

About Dr. Laura Catena

Laura Catena is a fourth generation Argentine vintner, physician and author. Catena’s great grandfather founded the Catena winery in Mendoza in 1902 after emigrating from Italy. Her father, Nicolas Catena Zapata, often referred to as “the Robert Mondavi of Argentina,” helped facilitate the ascent of Argentine Malbec onto the world stage.

Born in Mendoza, Argentina, Laura graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University and has a Medical Doctor degree from Stanford University. Laura combines a strong science background with a passion for her family winery. She is currently managing director of Bodega Catena Zapata and her own Luca Wines in Mendoza, as well as a practicing Emergency Medicine physician in San Francisco.

Laura has been called the “face” of Argentine wine. She has traveled the globe to lecture about Argentine wines and viticulture and has been an invited speaker at the American Society of Wine Educators, Decanter Fine Wine Encounter, The Smithsonian and the Vancouver Playhouse among others.

In 2010 Laura Catena released her book Vino Argentino, An Insider’s Guide to the Wines and Wine Country of Argentina (Chronicle Books), the first book about Argentine wine by a U.S. publisher. Dave McIntyre of The Washington Post wrote: “Vino Argentino is a mouthwatering introduction to the wines and culture of Argentina.”

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/74.

73: Women v Men Wine Tasting and Texture with Dr. Gary Pickering Apr 22, 2020

What makes you a supertaster? Does supertaster status play a role outside of wine tasting? How does age affect our senses of smell and taste? Why is mouthfeel an important aspect of a wine’s appeal? Why should you describe wine by sensation, rather than compound?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with Dr. Gary Pickering, the inventor of the white wine mouthfeel wheel and the supertasting kit, and co-developer of the Wine Aroma Kits.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/73.

Highlights

Why could being a supertaster have a negative impact on your health?
How does being a supertaster correlate with your alcohol consumption?
As a woman, how much more likely are you to be a supertaster?
What advantages do you have as a woman, when it comes to tasting wine?
How can the Wine Awakenings Aroma Kit improve your wine-drinking experience?
Why is the Wine Mouthfeel Wheel an essential tool for wine lovers, winemakers and researchers?
How are texture and body related to each other?
Is mouthfeel connected to tannins?
When you hear about ripe/unripe tannin, what does that really mean?
How do super tasters rate wine compared to average ratings?

About Dr. Gary Pickering

Dr. Gary Pickering, a Professor of Wine Science and researcher at Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute, in Niagara, Canada. He holds a doctorate in Wine Science from Lincoln University in Canterbury, and prior to his current appointment was a lecturer at Charles Stuart University in Australia and senior lecturer and research manager at the Eastern Institute of Technology in New Zealand.

His teaching and research focus on wine flavour, sensory science and development of novel wine products and processes, and he has published over 100 papers, patents, book chapters and conference proceedings. Gary is the recipient of a number of research awards, is passionate about wine and wine education, and is working on a number of books.

Gary is the inventor of the white wine mouthfeel wheel and the supertasting kit and is co-developer of the Wine Aroma Kits. In addition to his work as President of Picksen International Inc, Gary serves as an international wine judge, most recently for Cuvee and InterVin. He also enjoys a good glass of wine!

72: Orange Wines are Trending with Winemaker Ann Sperling Apr 15, 2020

What is orange wine? How does fermenting with the stems and leave give you a more complex flavour profile? Can you find orange wine on restaurant wine lists? Which types of food should you pair with orange wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with Ann Sperling, winegrower and Director of Winemaking and Viticulture at Southbrook Vineyards.

Highlights

How does orange wine give you a glimpse into ancient wines?
Why would you see less waste from the winemaking process with orange wine?
How long can you expect your orange wine to last with no added sulphites?
Why are you seeing an uptick in interest in orange wine?
Why is the Vidal grape such a good varietal for orange wine?
Why do you experience a savoury flavour profile with orange wine?
Where can you buy Southbrook orange wine?
Do orange wines mask the terroir and their grapes?
Why was it important to have the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) recognise orange wines in their own category?
What’s the next step in the evolution of the making and distribution of orange wines?
What’s the difference between orange wines and natural wines?
Why should you buy local when it comes to wine?
How is the winemaking process different for natural wines like those produced at Southbrook?
Other than Vidal, which grapes are well-suited for orange wine?
Do orange wines have to be organic?
What is unique about the Seriously Cool line of wines?
What sommelier secret should you know about pairing orange wines?
What flavour profile will you experience with Seriously Cool Chardonnay, Red Wine Blend and Rosé?
Why did Ann feel so strongly about orange wine having its own category with the VQA?
Where does Ann see the orange wine category growing into?

About Ann Sperling

Ann Sperling was raised on a vineyard, where her family has grown grapes since the 1850s; her great-grandparents planted grapes in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. “I had a miniature version of every conceivable farm tool—a child-sized hoe and so on—so that I could help with almost every part of growing the vines,” she says.

She remembers yearning to be older so that she could do even more of the farming. At dinner, the family ate and drank what they grew, and analyzed it for freshness, ripeness and balance, which helped her to develop her tasting ability. Having grown up among the vines, she says she has an intuitive feel for them: she can walk into any vineyard around the world, and within seconds assess its age and vitality.

Considered a leading force in the Canadian movement towards organic and biodynamic fine winemaking, Ann has over two decades of experience in winegrowing, winemaking and consulting for successful winery startups.

Ann prefers to think of herself as a “Winegrower,” instead of a winemaker. This vineyard-centric ideology is passionately applied to every facet of Southbrook’s winemaking philosophy, including its organic and biodynamic grape-growing practices, and gentle handling in the winery.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/72.

71: British Columbia’s Best Wineries with Wine Writer John Schreiner Apr 08, 2020

What defines an icon wine? What are the hottest trends in BC wines right now? Which British Columbia wines are worth adding to your cellar? What will surprise you about BC wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with John Schreiner, author of Icon: Flagship Wines from British Columbia's Best Wineries, whom I consider to be the godfather of Canadian wine writing.

Highlights

Why should you pay attention to the BC wine industry, despite how young it is?
How does BC have an advantage over other wine-growing regions?
What flavour profiles can you look out for in some of John’s favourite icon wines?
How does the changing approach to British Columbia (BC) viticulture translate to your palate?
Where can you find the Similkameen Valley?
Why did John include Vanessa Vineyard's Meritage to his Icon list?
How can you taste wine like an experienced wine writer?
What history do you bring to your cellar when you buy an icon wine?
Why should you invest in a bottle of Merlot or Chardonnay from CheckMate Artisanal Winery?
What makes Hester Creek Estate Winery’s The Judge a must-have addition for your cellar?
How can you see the winemaker’s personality come out in Cassini Cellars’ The Godfather?
Why is Riesling the best white wine to age?
How did a minor cork adventure start John’s wine-loving journey?
What inspired John’s transition from business reporter to wine writer?
How does John see the BC wine region and industry evolving over the next 5-10 years?
Why did John dedicate Icon to the winemaker at Mission Hills?
Why would John want to share a bottle of wine with Winston Churchill?

About John Schreiner

John Schreiner is a prolific and seasoned wine writer. Beginning with regular wine columns in the Financial Post and the Vancouver Sun in 1974, he published his first book, The World of Canadian Wines, in 1984 and has since written fourteen books on Canada’s and British Columbia’s wines and wine culture. He is a celebrated member of both national and regional wine communities across Canada and has judged in wine competitions in North America and abroad. He lives in Vancouver, where he maintains his own expansive wine collection.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/71.

70: Frog’s Leap Winemaker John Williams Shares Witty & Wise Stories Apr 01, 2020

Do all wines taste better with time? What similarities are there between winemaking and cheese-making? Why is Zinfandel your perfect summer drink? How does dry farming impact the flavour of wine?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're chatting with one of the wittiest, smartest winemakers, John Williams, winemaker and owner at Frog's Leap Winery, about the unique benefits of organic winemaking and dry farming.

Highlights

What makes Napa Valley such a diverse region despite its small geographical area?
Why should you visit Rutherford in the Napa Valley?
How is Rutherford particularly well-suited for Cabernet?
How did Frog’s Leap Winery get its name?
What sense of personality will you get from Frog’s Leap’s packaging and branding?
Why should you join the Fellowship of the Frog?
Is Frog’s Leap wine organic?
Why is the Frog’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc held up to such a high standard?
What tasting notes should you look out for with the Frog’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc?
How can you make a fantastic food pairing with the Frog’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc?
How does co-fermentation affect the flavour of wine?
What is dry farming?
How does dry farming impact the flavour of wine?
Is dry farming advantageous in periods of lower rainfall?
Why should you save a case of Frog’s Leap wine?
Why should you renew your love for Merlot?
What types of versatile food pairings can you have with Merlot more than other wines?
How do you experience Rutherford dust when drinking Frog’s Leap Cabernet?

About John Williams

John Williams made his first pilgrimage to Napa Valley in the early 1970s and began making wine for a little-known winery called “Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.” He met physician Larry Turley while camping out illegally on his property, which was a former frog raising farm. In 1976, John and his now friend Larry Turley made their first barrel of wine at the “Frog Farm” with “borrowed” grapes from Stag’s Leap, and coined the name “Frog’s Leap” as an inside joke. In 1981, John and Larry decided to get serious and the rest, as they say, is history. As the motto says, Time’s Fun When You’re Having Flies!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/70.

69: How Has Quarantine Impacted Wineries and Wine Lovers? Mar 25, 2020

Should you hold firm to plans for travelling to wine regions in the near future? How are winery visits being impacted by quarantine restrictions? Can you still attend major wine events? How can you take advantage of online classes to continue to enjoy wine tasting experiences?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we're talking about how wineries and restaurants have been impacted by the current state of public health, and what we can do to support them and still maintain our safety and health.

Highlights

How can you limit your anxiety around news?
Do you have to stop dining out at restaurants (provided they're still open in your area)?
What steps can you take to limit person-to-person contact?
Why shouldn’t you add certain types of vodka to your hand-sanitising routine?
What hand washing tips do you need to remember when interacting with other people?
What social distancing restrictions apply to you in the San Francisco Bay Area?
How are restaurant patrons being impacted in Beijing and Italy?
How have restaurants’ business performance suffered in cities with high incidence numbers?
What impact does large event cancellations have on local restaurants?
How will Bordeaux négociants change their en primeur tasting week?
What boom are optimists predicting you’ll see by the end of the year?
Why is the Australian wine industry experiencing a massive drop in sales?
What can you expect to experience at the Vancouver Wine Festival?
How are restaurant workers at a particular disadvantage during lockdowns and quarantines?
What impact will you see on the supply chain of wine retailers?
Will you see innovation opportunities in the restaurant and wine industry?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/69.

68: Pairing Spicy Dishes & Wines with Vikram Vij and Sean Nelson Mar 18, 2020

How sparkling wine spice up your menu? What complementary taste rule can you use to pair your food with wine? Which wines should you never pair with Indian food? Which red wine should be at the top of your list for pairing with spicy food? Does ambiance affect your wine tasting experience?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, Celebrity chef and author Vikram Vij and Head Sommelier Sean Nelson share their insider tips and tricks to help you pair wine with spicy, complex food like a pro.

Highlights

What should you know about the Indian wine industry?
How should you approach food and wine pairing?
Should you drink sparkling wine throughout a meal?
Does Riesling pair well with spicy food?
Why does the specific Gewurtztraminer have to be carefully chosen when pairing with spicy food?
How can you keep your palate from feeling overwhelmed when tasting wine?
What can you expect from the wine selection at Vij’s?
Why should you have a glass of Krug at Vij’s?

About Vikram Vij and Sean Nelson

Vikram Vij was born in India in 1964 and lived in New Delhi and Bombay until the age of 20, when he went to study, live and work in Austria. While he was there he received his chef certificate from the Salzburg Hotel Management School. Vikram moved to Canada in 1989 to work at the Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta.

Vikram became a certified sommelier from the International Sommelier Guild in 2000, and is passionate about pairing wines with his cuisine.

Vikram is a serial restauranteur, author and television personality and he has appeared on hit shows such as Chopped, Top Chef, and Dragons’ Den. He’s also the first Indian chef to earn a sommelier degree.

Sean was born in White Rock, BC and grew up in Greater Vancouver. He entered the Hospitality industry at age 16 and after becoming certified and spending time in wine regions around the world, in 2013, upon returning to Vancouver he took the job of Sommelier at Vij’s Restaurant.

While at Vij’s, Sean passed his Advanced Sommelier Examination on the first attempt to become Western Canada's youngest Advanced Sommelier in 2016.

Vij’s Restaurant has been awarded back to back Platinum Awards at the Vancouver Wine Festival Wine List Awards of Excellence in 2016 and 2017 and in 2017 was named one of Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s Top 10 Wine Restaurants in Canada.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/68.

67: Become a Better Wine Taster with Master Sommelier Elyse Lambert Mar 11, 2020

What's the one thing you can do when visiting wine regions to make it your best trip ever? How can yoga help you become a better wine taster? How do you calibrate your palate and why should you do it? What's it like competing in the World's Best Sommelier Competition? How can you develop your wine tasting vocabulary?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, Master Sommelier Elyse Lambert shares tips on how you can become a better wine taster.

Highlights

How can Le guide des Méchants Raisins help you learn about wine?
Which simple tip does Elyse recommend for you when pairing wine and food?
How can you make the most out of a trip to French wine regions?
What key strategy should you keep in mind when visiting wine regions?
Which wine can you pair perfectly with pizza?
Why should you taste with a variety of people you don’t know?
How can yoga help you become a Master Sommelier?
When should you calibrate your palate and how can you do so?
How can you develop your wine tasting vocabulary?
Which Canadian wine regions should you keep your eye on?
What role does humility play for a sommelier?

About Elyse Lambert

Born in Montréal, Québec, Élyse Lambert graduated with a degree in hotel management from the prestigious Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ) in 1998 and as Sommelier from L’École Hôtelière des Laurentides in 1999.

Her career as a Sommelier began in the Québec Laurentians at the award winning Relais & Châteaux l’Eau à la Bouche. Her next move was to the Eastern Townships where, from 2000 to 2004, she was an integral member of the sommelier team at Auberge Hatley, a 5 diamond CAA – Relais & Châteaux.

Throughout her exciting career path, Elyse continued to earn credibility for her craft and accolades in Canadian and international competitions. Elyse Lambert is now the 5th Best Sommelier of the World 2016.

She is currently working as a Sommelier Consultant and continues sharing her passion at Radio-Canada’s morning show, Medium Large and as a wine column in Journal de Montreal. Elyse lives in Montreal and consults for private and corporate clients and is often invited to facilitate wine education seminars and to speak at corporate functions in Canada and around the world.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/67.

66: Angelina Jolie Wines with Winemaking Consultant Clark Smith Mar 04, 2020

Why would you want to challenge a young wine with oxygen? Why don’t you hear many technical conversations around wine? How can movie genres help you understand winemakers' intentions?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Clark Smith, winemaker for his own WineSmith label and several other brands, consulting winemaker, author, inventor, musician, and professor to the wine industry throughout the globe.

Highlights

What is the $50,000 winery phenomenon?
What should you do every time you open a bottle of wine?
What do you experience when tasting “minerality”?
Does soil impact minerality in wine?
Why is it problematic for you to think of wines according to the grape varietal only?
Why should you take pride in wine manipulation?
How did Clark become interested in reverse osmosis?

About Clark Smith

Clark Smith, winemaker for his own WineSmith label and several other brands, has dedicated four decades to being a consulting winemaker, author, inventor, musician, and professor to the wine industry throughout the globe.

A product of M.I.T. and U. C. Davis, he has founded and managed four prominent start-ups and consulted for thousands of wineries and other craft beverage producers and suppliers throughout the world. He holds patents for volatile acidity (VA) removal and alcohol adjustment via reverse osmosis. Founding Winemaker for R. H. Phillips in the 1980s, Clark Smith began WineSmith Consulting in 1990 and founded Vinovation, Inc. in 1992 to commercialize new winemaking technologies including ultra-filtration and micro-oxygenation.

The IQ Conference named him 2016 Innovator of the Year. His ground-breaking Postmodern Winemaking Symposium format, which brings together 100 experienced experts for a lecture-free round-table discussion, is among the Wine Industry’s most celebrated events.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/66.

65: Wine Industry Faces Digital Darwinism with Paul Mabray Feb 26, 2020

How is the wine industry embracing the digital world? What role do influencers play in wine marketing? What can you do to increase engagement and build deeper connections with customers? Why has the wine industry been so resistant to adapt to the digital age?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Paul Mabray, a wine unicorn and digital futurist who has created and led companies that have transformed the wine industry through the strategic and visionary use of technology.

Highlights

Why haven’t you seen any major disruptors in the wine industry?
Can you quantify the value of social media?
What’s the difference between an influencer and a superfan?
Where is the balance you should find between content generation and engagement?
How can you bridge the disconnect between consumers and brands while building brand awareness?
How has Paul brought together the wine and tech industries throughout his career?

About Paul Mabray

Paul Mabray is a wine unicorn and digital futurist. He has created and led companies that have transformed the wine industry through the strategic and visionary use of technology. He believes that the future of the wine industry hinges on its ability to adapt and change to meet consumer expectations, wherever they are, whether that’s online, at the winery, in the liquor store or at home.

A Digital Think Tank for the Wine Industry: That’s how Paul Mabray describes his Napa-based consulting company that uses strategy and technology to solve problems in a complex category.

Paul has been working in the wine and technology industries for 17 years and has been a guest lecturer at University of California’s Berkley School of Business, UC Davis that has trained winemakers around the world, as well as at many international conferences.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/65.

64: Money, Taste and Wine with Mike Veseth, the Wine Economist Feb 19, 2020

Does price affect your perception of a wine's quality? What would it be like to travel around the world in pursuit of eighty wines? Why does the wide variety of wine negatively affect your buying choices? How can you identify value wines?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Mike Veseth, The Wine Economist, award-winning author and professor emeritus of the University of Tacoma at Puget Sound in Washington, where he taught international political economy.

Highlights

What is the role of economics in the business of winemaking?
How did Mike get the title of The Wine Economist?
How do you have an advantage in the wine industry as a family business?
What is one of the major risks you take when drinking the product of amateur winemaking?
What should you expect from reading Mike’s books?
What parallels can you find between Around the World in Eighty Wines and it’s Jules Verne inspiration?
How can you use the “is it worth it” index to identify value wines?
Which regions should you look to for great value wines?

About Mike Veseth

Economist Mike Veseth (pronounced VEE-seth) is an authority on global wine markets who travels the world studying wine economics and speaking to wine industry groups. He reports his discoveries on this blog, The Wine Economist, and in more than a dozen books including Wine Wars (2011), Extreme Wine (2013) and Money, Taste & Wine: It’s Complicated! (2015). The newest book, Around the World in Eighty Wines, will appear in November, 2017.

The Wine Economist was named 2015 “Best in the World” wine blog by Gourmand International. Money Taste, and Wine received the 2016 Gourmand International award for “Best in the World” wine writing.

Mike Veseth is also professor emeritus of International Political Economy at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. He is an authority on globalization and the global wine market. Mike was named Washington Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. His 2005 book Globaloney was selected as a Best Business Book of 2005 by Library Journal. JancisRobinson.com’s annual book review named Wine Wars a Wine Book for the Year in 2011.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/64.

63: Aphrodisiac Wine Pairings for Valentine's Day Feb 12, 2020

Do you need to follow a food and wine pairing rulebook? What wine-worthy aphrodisiacs should you add to your menu this Valentine's Day? Does the classic romantic food, chocolate, have a perfect wine match you should try? Where does salinity in wine come from?

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with you about aphrodisiac wine pairings and salt in wine. Enjoy!

Highlights

What is the most important rule you should remember when choosing wine?
Why do you enjoy sparkling wines especially with oysters?
Which high-zinc nuts were often prescribed to the love-sick and pair well with Sauvignon Blanc?
Can you successfully pair wine with asparagus?
How should you pair soft cheeses with wine?
What factors should you consider when pairing wine with strawberries and cream?
Why should you consider bacon as an aphrodisiac?
If you taste some salinity in wine, where does it come from?
Should you pay attention to the salinity of vineyard soil?
Why shouldn’t you expect additives to be responsible for all of wines tasting notes?
What do your taste perceptions with wine mean?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/63.

62: Pairing Wine and Cannabis with the Herb Sommelier Jamie Evans Feb 05, 2020

What does a wine enthusiast have in common with a cannabis user? How can you pair wine with cannabis? What do you need to know about terpenes and wine pairing? How do infused beverages bring together the cannabis and wine industries?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Jamie Evans, founder of The Herb Somm, a cannabis blog and lifestyle brand that is focused on the gourmet side of the cannabis industry. Enjoy!

Highlights

What health and lifestyle benefits can you experience from using cannabis?
Where can you explore the culinary side of cannabis?
Can you try cannabis without experiencing a high?
Why is cannabis a good "exit drug"?
Why should we break the stigma associated with cannabis?
How did Jamie develop her interest in the cannabis industry?
What was Jamie’s involvement in the cannabis restaurant movement in San Francisco?
Where does Jamie think the future of the cannabis industry is going?

About Jamie Evans

Jamie Evans is the founder of The Herb Somm, a cannabis blog and lifestyle brand that is focused on the gourmet side of the cannabis industry. She is an educator, host, and writer specializing in cannabis, food, recipes, wine, and the cannaculinary world.

In addition to her work in the cannabis industry, Jamie has over ten years of wine industry experience. Having represented a wide array of organizations and wineries, she is best known for producing high-end events and developing topnotch public relations, marketing, and hospitality programs. Jamie is also a contributor to POPSUGAR and MARY Magazine specializing in cannabis recipes and cannabis lifestyle pieces. She was also recently named as one of Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 Tastemakers in 2018.

Born and raised in Truckee, CA, Jamie’s roots extend back to South Dakota farm families. She developed a love for wine and agriculture while earning her degree in Wine and Viticulture, with a concentration in Wine Business at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. As an avid traveler, she expanded her knowledge and explored different regions where she studied enology and viticulture at The University of Adelaide, Australia and The Engineering School of Enology at Changins, Switzerland.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/62.

61: Single Vineyards versus Blends, Drops of God Manga Wine, Wine Scores Jan 29, 2020

How does blending grapes impact the flavour profile of wine? What can blends give you that a single varietal can’t? What can you learn about wine from reading the Drops of God manga series? Why should you engage your creative side when it comes to wine? Why do you need to dive deeper into wine scores before buying?

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with you about the power and problems with wine scores, whether single vineyard or blends are better and the viral sensation of the Manga wine series called Drops of God. Enjoy!

Highlights

How is the Drops of God anime series impacting wine sales?
Why should you engage your creative side when it comes to wine?
What can blends give you that a single varietal can’t?
How does blending grapes impact the flavour profile of wine?
What are some well-known wines that are blends?
Why might Submission wine be on your radar?
How did the Toronto Star’s score for Submission impact its sales?
How did I review Submission?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/61.

60: Mark Oldman: The Wine World’s Greatest Showman Jan 22, 2020

What insider tip can you use the next time you’re faced with a restaurant wine list? What do billionaires look for in wines for daily drinking? Why should you cultivate a wine spouse? How can you signal to restaurant staff that you’re a wine insider (even if you’re not)?

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Mark Oldman, New York-based wine best-selling author, speaker and entrepreneur and one of the liveliest and wittiest guests I’ve had on the show. Enjoy!

Highlights

What should you do if you think your restaurant glassware or wine has a fault?
How can a label help you to identify a great value wine?
Why shouldn’t you say no to paper cups?
Why is a restaurant wine list like the Bermuda Triangle?
Why should you pay extra attention to the back label?
When is oak “deliciously slutty”?
Should you request specific glassware to match your wine?
Why is blind tasting overrated?
How did Mark end up in criminal court over a bottle of Bordeaux?

About Mark Oldman

Mark Oldman is a wine expert, author, entrepreneur, speaker, and media personality, and, elementally, someone who delights in helping people simplify complex subjects.

In the world of wine, he is known for his singular ability to unravel wine’s complexities with a potent blend of entertainment, style, and humor. Mark’s enduring, award-winning books are considered by many to be the best of their kind.

His standing invitations to the country’s top food festivals and consistently sold-out events attest to his position as one of gastronomy’s most captivating speakers.

Named “everybody’s favorite wine expert” by festival guru Lee Brian Schrager and a “hot ticket” by the New York Post, Mark brings the ruckus to audiences at major fairs, corporations, and institutions around the world.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/60.

59: Bargain Wines, Pairing Wine and Artichokes, Wine Region Vacations with the Restaurant Guys Mark Pascal and Francis Schott Jan 15, 2020

What makes a bargain wine? How can you prepare artichokes to be more wine-friendly? Should you plan a trip to Canada's wine regions?

In today’s episode, I’m chatting again with Mark Pascal and Francis Schott, on their excellent radio show The Restaurant Guys. If you missed part one of our conversation, go back to episode 56 after you listen to this one.

Mark and Francis have been in the fine dining and wine retail business for more than 25 years, and co-own Stage Left Restaurant in New Brunswick, New Jersey, which the New York Times has ranked in their excellent category and Citysearch named among the Top 10 Restaurants in America and Worth The Drive from any Major City. They also own a second restaurant called Catherine Lombardi as well as the Stage Left Wine Shop.

I wanted to share this one with you because we chat about tips on spotting bargain wines, pairing wine and veggies, including the especially tough match of artichokes, and why Canadian wine regions are excellent places to vacation. This is actually two episodes rolled into one as I’ve been a guest on their show a number of times. Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

How can my mobile wine app make your wine-shopping life much easier?
Why do you have to put more effort into finding bargain wines?
Which region-based rule can help you find great bargain wines?
Where can you find the most vibrant wine destination on the east coast of the US?
Do Canadian wine regions make good tourist destinations?
Are some wines better suited to certain seasons?
Which characteristics can you look for in a good wine to pair with vegetables?
Why should you give a toast at your next celebration?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/59.

58: Getting Graphic with Wine and Madeline Puckette of Wine Folly Jan 08, 2020

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Madeline Puckette, the content director and co-founder of Wine Folly whose passion for helping beginners learn about wine is the inspiration behind the award-winning website winefolly.com, and the NYT best-selling book, Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine. Enjoy!

Highlights

How can Wine Folly empower you on your wine tasting journey?
Do the flavours you taste in wine come from additives like other fruits?
How does your sense of smell affect the way things taste?
What can you deduce from the colour of wine?
What out of the box wine pairing do you need to try?
Why should Spain be at the top of your wine trip bucket list?
Which next-door wine region should you visit next?
How can you use Wine Folly when tasting wine?

About Madeline Puckette

Madeline Puckette is the content director and co-founder of Wine Folly. Her passion for helping beginners learn about wine is the inspiration behind the award-winning website winefolly.com, and the NYT best-selling book, Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine. Madeline's background in visual design, music and restaurant hospitality have helped shape her communication of wine through infographics, entertainment and social media.

Since the inception of the site on December 25, 2011, Madeline's enigmatic wine designs have been featured in places like NPR, Fast Company Design and The Washington Post. The Wine Folly book has been published in 20 countries including Korea, Germany, Russia, China, France and Italy.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/58.

57: BYOB Wines to Restaurants Jan 01, 2020

What does BYOB, Bring Your Own Bottle, to a restaurant mean? What special laws and etiquette do you need to know about it? Which provinces and states allow it? How does BYOB benefit you as a wine lover, aside from reducing your restaurant bill? How should you calculate the tip when you bring your own wine?

On today's episode of Unreserved Wine Talk, I'm sharing everything you need to know, plus my best tips for enjoying BYOB wines at restaurants. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why is BYOB perfect for you if you don’t cook much at home?
How does BYOB benefit you as a wine lover?
Should you BYOB when venturing into more casual fare?
How much does wine contribute to restaurant profits?
How should you calculate an appropriate tip when you BYOB?
How can BYOB help emerging wine regions and small producers?
What aspects of BYOB especially benefit dining and wine culture?
What BYOB etiquette tips should you keep in mind?
How is wine helping some chain restaurants to differentiate themselves?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/57.

56: Champagne Special with the Restaurant Guys Mark Pascal and Francis Schott Dec 25, 2019

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Mark Pascal and Francis Schott, on their excellent radio show The Restaurant Guys. They’ve been in the fine dining and wine retail business for more than 25 years, and co-own Stage Left Restaurant in New Brunswick, New Jersey, which the New York Times has ranked in their excellent category and Citysearch named among the Top 10 Restaurants in America and Worth The Drive from any Major City.

Since I’ve chatted with them, they’ve launched a second restaurant called Catherine Lombardi and their Stage Left Wine Shop is booming. Although their radio show was wildly popular, they decided to retire it and focus their time on the restaurants and wine boutique, and actually get a full night’s sleep now and then.

I wanted to share this one with you because we dig into some of my most personal and earliest wine stories as well as tips on how to choose a great festive wine, pairings for turkey dinner and navigating a big restaurant wine list. This is actually two episodes rolled into one as I’ve been a guest on their show a number of times. Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

How do you become a wine expert?
How can you tackle a daunting restaurant wine list?
Should you always follow the advice of a restaurant’s resident wine “expert”?
Are you able to fit wine into your weight loss diet?
Why is wine the perfect companion for your holiday meals?
Can you serve Champagne before the start of the meal?
Where can you look for Sparkling Wine that tastes as good as Champagne?
What’s the correct temperature for you to serve Champagne?
How do you figure out how much wine you should buy?
What can you do to make sure the wine you bring to dinner is well-received?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/56.

55: Pairing Gift Wines with Personalities Dec 18, 2019

Why does wine make such an ideal holiday gift? Which wines are the best to give, especially when you don’t know the personal taste of the recipient? Are there some wines you should never give as a gift beyond Two Buck Chuck? How can you match the gift wine to the personality of the giftee?

We’re always talking about pairing wine and food, but how about pairing wine with the people on your holiday gift list? After all, when you give the gift of wine, doubles are fine unlike toaster ovens, there are no wrong sizes unlike that ugly sweater and regifting is so much easier compared to fruit cake or a bathroom scale. On today's episode of Unreserved Wine Talk, I'm sharing some special bottles for those special people on your shopping list. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why should you give wine as a gift?
What makes bubbly the perfect wine for you to bring to a dinner party?
Which blue-chip wine has the perfect price-quality ratio for a gift to your financial planner?
Where should you look for a zesty wine with a backstory to gift your travel agent?
What characteristics make a great gift wine for your hairdresser?
Who would make the perfect recipient for a tasteful wine from one of the fastest-growing wine regions?
Which robust red wine can you gift to a fitness enthusiast without worry?
How can you make sure to pick a gift wine that stands up to analysis for your therapist?
Which California wines can you rely on for your online date?
What consistent red wine can be enjoyed come snow, rain, sleet or heat?
Which imaginative wine choices should you consider for your mechanic?
Which wine will pair perfectly with your Christmas spirit?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/55.

54: What's Minerality in Wine? Plus California Wildfires Dec 11, 2019

What it minerality mean when it comes to wine? Is it a taste? A feeling? Or some bogus concept meant to keep wine mysterious? What’s the latest with the devastating wildfires in Sonoma wine country? Why are winemakers wary of cannabis producers? It’s not what you might think. And what is a new wine group doing to help with a balanced life?

On today's episode of Unreserved Wine Talk, I'm taking a deep dive into the controversial concept of minerality, assessing the impact of recent wildfires on California wine country, discussing the controversy between cannabis producers and winemakers and sharing a resource I recently found for helping you live a balanced life as a wine lover. Enjoy!

Highlights

What impact has the Kincade Fire had on Sonoma County?
How will that affect the wines we drink in the future?
Which of the Sonoma wineries were affected by the Kincade Fire?
Should cannabis producers be allowed to use wine appellations?
How is cannabis added to wine?
What effects should you expect to feel from drinking cannabis-infused wine?
What are you experiencing when wine is described as having great minerality?
Does geology influence grapes and wine?
What are some simple tips you can use to keep your wine consumption in balance?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/54.

53: Festive Wines with the Globe & Mail's Christine Sismondo Dec 04, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Christine Sismondo, writer, teacher and barfly who, when not teaching literature at York University, is tracking down the city’s best drinks and the bars in which they’re served for her columns. She also writes wine and cocktail articles for the Globe and Mail, Canada’s largest national newspaper. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why shouldn’t you lump Cava, Prosecco and Champagne together?
Why did Lambrusco have a bad reputation in the 70s and 80s?
What is the Charmat Method for producing sparkling wine?
How did Lambrusco become popular in North America?
Can you expect to find Italian sparkling wine at the LCBO?
What foods can you pair with Lambrusco and Franciacorta?
What has caused Sherry’s recent comeback?
How is Pisco different from other spirits?

About Christine Sismondo

Christine Sismondo is a professor of English literature at York University and she writes about wine and spirits for the Globe & Mail, Canada’s largest national newspaper. She’s also written regularly for the Toronto Star, the Report on Business Magazine and The Grid, and has won a National Magazine Award for her work.

She’s the author of Mondo Cocktail: A Shaken and Stirred History and wrote a six-part podcast series on Prohibition for Wondery’s American History Tellers based on the book. Her most recent book is America Walks Into a Bar: A Spirited History of Taverns and Saloons, Speakeasies and Grog Shops published by Oxford University Press.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/53.

52: Visiting Burgundy and Tasting Barolo with Matt Cauz Nov 27, 2019

On today’s episode, I’m chatting with Matt Cauz, on his excellent podcast called Matt Talks Wine and Stuff with Interesting People. Matt interviews sommeliers, winemakers and wine writers so this is a bit of a turnaround from my usual format because Matt is interviewing me.

I wanted to share this episode with you because we dig into lots of great wine tips, like how to make sense of the wine region Burgundy, how social media has changed the way we think about wine and a sneak peek at some of the topics in my third book, including the issues that women in the wine industry face. Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

Why is your first memorable wine often the one that kick-starts your passion for wine?
Why does visiting Burgundy help to make sense of it?
What is it about tasting a wine where it's made that deepens your memory of it?
Why is Domaine de la Romanee-Conti considered one of the world's finest wines?
What can you expect from my third book about wine?
How has being a woman in the wine industry changed over the past ten years?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/52.

51: Wine for Normal People with Elizabeth Schneider Nov 20, 2019

I’m chatting with Elizabeth Schneider, who has just published her first book called Wine for Normal People. Elizabeth also hosts one of the popular wine podcasts, Wine for Normal People. She’s a Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers and co-founder of Underground Wine Events, which brings together wine lovers with terrific, small wineries around the US. She talks and thinks about wine in a practical, often tongue-in-cheek way and her info-packed classes and tastings are always informative and fun, never overwhelming and dry.

Meanwhile, I’m getting amazing feedback from wine lovers who are taking my new, free online video wine class called The 5 Wine & Food Pairing Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Dinner and how to fix them forever. You’ll learn about that plus about my new in-depth, paid course called The Wine Smart Course: A Full-Bodied Framework to Taste, Pair and Buy Wines like a Pro. Enjoy!

Highlights

What are “normal” people when it comes to wine?
How are wine and table grapes different?
How can you identify regions that produce crisp wines with the jacket-in-summer question?
Are the Master of Wine and Master Sommelier programs professional designations or private clubs?
What misconception about the lake effect often gets repeated by wine experts?
How is Elizabeth’s new book, Wine for Normal People, different from all other wine books?
Why would Dom Perignon disapprove of the bubbles in Champagne?
What winemaking accident created the effervescence in Champagne?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit https://www.nataliemaclean.com/51.

50: Pairing Chocolate & Wine, Harvest 2019 Update Nov 13, 2019

How do you pair wine and chocolate? Do the wines change with different types of chocolate, say milk chocolate versus dark chocolate? How is the 2019 harvest going in BC, Ontario and Nova Scotia? What can we expect as consumers in terms of style, quality, and price? How have the wildfires affected the California harvest of 2017, especially since those red wines are now hitting liquor store shelves?

That's exactly what I'm talking about in today's edition of Unreserved Wine Talk. I’m also hosting my first live wine class for the 5 Wine & Food Pairing Mistakes that Can Ruin Your Dinner (and how to fix them forever). This free class is also when I’ll share details about my new, in-depth paid course called The Wine Smart Course (catchy right?) A Full-Bodied Framework to Taste, Pair & Buy Wine Like a Pro. You’ll know when you can join me on the free class if you get my wine newsletter. Enjoy!

Highlights

Should you even try to pair wine and chocolate?
Won't the sweetness of the chocolate make the wine taste bitter?
Why are fortified wines the best partners for chocolate?
How do their sweetness and higher alcohol content match the flavours of chocolate?
Why does port, in particular, go well with chocolate?
Why is milk chocolate harder to pair with wine than dark chocolate?
Which wines pair best with white chocolate?
What about desserts with just a touch of chocolate, like strawberries dipped in chocolate?
What critical factors affected the 2019 harvest in BC, Ontario and NS?
Did Hurricane Dorian have an impact on the harvest?
Which wines and grapes will do well this year, and which won't?
How does a wet, cold spring impact the style of wines?
Why is 2019 proving to be a challenging harvest for winemakers across the country?
How did the 2017 wildfires affect Californian wines?
What can you expect in terms of taste and style for the reds now hitting liquor store shelves?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

49: Flying with Flavour: Travel and Wine Stories with Stephanie Piché Nov 06, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Stephanie Piché, a chef who in her never-ending quest for new flavours and experiences, has travelled the world to over 30 countries to gather insight and knowledge in international travel, luxury dining, local recipes and the world’s best wines. Enjoy!

Highlights

How did Stephanie stumble upon a secret cellar in Nice, France?
How can you pair wine and kangaroo?
What is Stephanie’s top restaurant dining etiquette tip?
Why is Spain Stephanie’s favourite country from her travels?
What’s the best wine trip to take in Spain?
Which wine festivals are Stephanie’s favourite?
Why does Stephanie like unfiltered Chardonnay and Pinot Noir?
Why are California vintners experimenting with ageing wine in the ocean?

About Stephanie Piché

Stephanie Piché was literally born into the kitchen. All the women on both sides of her family are happiest when they are together cooking and serving food. Stephanie grew up in this atmosphere of love and laughter while learning family recipes that have been handed down for generations. It is this legacy that she safeguards and honours with the name of her company – Legacy Events Inc.

On her never-ending quest for new flavours and experiences, she has travelled the world to over 30 countries (actually…33 and counting!) to gather insight and knowledge in international travel, luxury dining, local recipes and the world’s best wines. With her own website and podcast dedicated to all things food, drink and travel, Stephanie meets, chats and consults with people all over the world through Skype, social media and in-person whenever she can.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/49.

48: A Full-Bodied Framework to Taste, Pair & Buy Wine Like a Pro Oct 30, 2019

Would you like to know how to taste, pair and buy wine like a pro? Would you like to walk into a liquor store and know exactly which new wine you want to buy, confident that you’ll love it even though you’ve never tried it before? Would you like to look at a restaurant wine list, filled with wines you haven’t tasted, but have the strategies to pick a great wine for your dining companions and the dishes that you’ve all ordered?

That's exactly what I'm talking about on today's special edition of Unreserved Wine Talk. We're taking a deep dive into my online course, The Wine-Smart Course: A Full-Bodied Framework to Taste, Pair and Buy Wine Like a Pro. Over the past twenty years that I’ve been writing about wine, leading wine tastings and teaching online video courses, I’ve picked up lots of great secrets to decoding wine and I'm sharing them with you. I’m also launching a new, free video class to launch my new paid course, during which I’ll also share with you the 5 wine and food pairing mistakes that can ruin your dinner, and how to fix them forever. Enjoy!

Highlights

Who is the Wine-Smart Course for?
What will you learn in the Wine-Smart course?
What benefits can you gain from the course versus free information available on the internet?
Why is it so critical for you to become an expert on your own palate?
What will you learn about the most popular wine styles and regions?
How will the Wine-Smart Course help you to master food and wine pairing?
How will your wine purchasing experience change after taking the Wine-Smart Course?
What is the format of the Wine-Smart Course?
What are the added benefits of signing up for the course right now?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

47: Behind the Scenes: A Wine Writer's Life Oct 23, 2019

When I attend a social event that’s outside the wine industry and I’m asked about my job, I often joke that I drink for a living. After I clarify that I write about wine, I usually get questions about what exactly that involves and some misconceptions about drinking Champagne all day in between planning luxe trips to Tuscany and Napa Valley. However, it’s not all beer and Skittles, rainbows and unicorns.

On today's episode of Unreserved Wine Talk, I thought that since there’s always been quite a bit of curiosity about what I do, I’ll take you behind the scenes with a day-in-the-life of a wine writer. Seven days in fact. I’m going to record a short update each day, and let you know what I do that’s related to my job, plus a few personal details so that we get to know each other better. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why did I decide to do an episode to share how I spend my days?
How does my podcast find its way to your earbuds?
What was I invited to appear on Global Television’s Morning Show and CTV’s The Social?
Why were four cases of wine delivered in one day?
How do I approach wine tasting for reviews?
How do I prepare for bigger tastings?
How can you improve your wine shopping experience?
What’s the status of my third book and how is it going to be different from my first two?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

46: Texas Wines and Wine Writing Ethics Oct 16, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Gus Clemens, who went to business college when he was just 12 years old to learn how to type because he knew even then he wanted to be a writer. He's held editorial positions with the San Antonio Express-News and the Star Magazine in New York and has written or contributed to about twenty books about Texas and a range of other subjects. Enjoy!

Highlights

When did wine become a part of Gus’s life?
What led to Gus writing his first wine column?
Why was a column about sacramental wine one of the most memorable for Gus?
What is Gus’s best tip about writing?
Why is the Texas High Plains AVA well-suited for grape-growing?
What aspects of Texas weather pose a challenge to grape-growers?
How much wine does Texas produce?
Why is the Hill Country AVA the most visited AVA in the United States?
Are most Texas wines consumed within the state?
Why did Gus expand his column beyond Texas wines?
Who were the pioneers of Texas winemaking and how did they get started?
Where should you start a tour of Texas wine regions?
Why is Fredericksburg such a popular tourist destination?
How can you pair Texas wine with classic Texas foods?
Which wine advertising campaign is Gus’s favourite?
What is Gus’s least favourite wine advertising campaign?
What advice would Gus give to his 30-year-old self?
What’s the worst wine advice people give?
Why is the farm more important than the lab when it comes to wine flaws?
Which two people would Gus want to share a bottle of wine with?
How can you learn more about wine?
What are some wine hacks you can use at restaurants?

About Gus Clemens

Gus Clemens is a newspaper wine columnist, wine blogger, wine humorist and award-winning author whose wine columns appear in newspapers around the country. Gus went to business college when he was just 12 years old to learn how to type because he knew even then he wanted to be a writer. He's held editorial positions with the San Antonio Express-News and the Star Magazine in New York and has written or contributed to about twenty books about Texas and a range of other subjects.

Today Gus owns an advertising agency, Clemens and Associates, in San Angelo and writes a regular wine column for several Texas newspapers, including the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, the San Angelo Standard-Times and the Abilene Reporter-News, that often gets picked up through the Gannett news chain of more than one hundred papers throughout the U.S. He joined me now from his home in San Angelo, Texas.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the https://www.nataliemaclean.com/46.

45: Thanksgiving Wines, Mouse Wine Defect, Trends to Ignore Oct 09, 2019

For those of us in Canada, Thanksgiving is this weekend. In my opinion, there is no other holiday that celebrates the gift of wine like Thanksgiving. Wine is a taste of the harvest, along with all the delicious dishes on the table. But actually choosing a bottle can feel like a thankless task, especially with so many flavours to match. Do you celebrate Thanksgiving, perhaps in November if you’re American?

On today's episode of Unreserved Wine Talk, I’ll be chatting with you about how to pair wine with Thanksgiving turkey and all the side dishes, as well as the new defect in wine called mouse, and which wine trends you should definitely ignore. Enjoy!

Highlights

How does the wine defect "mouse" affect wine?
What conditions contribute to the development of mouse?
How does some natural wine advocates’ approach to “spoilage factors” differ?
What do some winemakers attribute to the presence of the mouse defect?
Why does acidity in wine make it pair better with food?
Which wines pair the best with turkey?
What are some complementary and contrasting pairings for Thanksgiving side dishes?
How can you pair wine with Thanksgiving desserts?
What are some natural and orange wine trends you should ignore?
Why do I think sulphur is misunderstood?
What do I think about CBD wines?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

44: Pairing Spicy Food & Wine, Gen X versus Millennial Drinkers Oct 02, 2019

Do you have trouble pairing wine with spicy dishes? What flavours can survive a spicy pairing? How do you pair wine and dishes with a lot of heat like Tex-Mex or vindaloo chicken? Why are Gen Xers so different as wine drinkers than millennials, and how is marketing to them changed? How can you improve your blood pressure and lower your risk of Alzheimer's with wine?

On today's episode of Unreserved Wine Talk, I'm sharing my tips for finding the right wine for every spicy occasion and exploring both an interesting insight into wine marketing and a fascinating recent study in the world of wine. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why is it tough to pair wine with spicy dishes?
What flavours can survive a spicy pairing?
Which wines pair well with spicy foods?
What wine consumption trends are we seeing with Gen Xers?
What differences do we see in how Gen Xers engage with the wine community?
What initiatives are being implemented to market to Gen Xers?
How is a recent study looking at resveratrol and astronauts?
Why does resveratrol have a potentially positive impact on blood pressure and Alzheimer’s disease?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

43: Wine Gossip and Stories with Friends of the Vine and Ian Osborn Sep 25, 2019

On today’s episode, I’m chatting with Ian Osborn, on his excellent podcast called Friends of the Vine. This is a bit of a turnaround from my usual format because Ian is interviewing me. I highly recommend that you check out Ian's podcast Friends of the Vine where he does a great job interviewing master sommeliers, masters of wine, winemakers and wine writers.

I wanted to share this episode with you because we dug into lots of great wine tips, from how to talk with the sommelier to becoming the expert on your own taste. I also share some behind-the-scenes stories about how I got into wine and what is what like writing my first book. Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

When did I first become interested in wine?
What role did Napa and Sonoma play in my journey to becoming a wine writer?
Why is it important to taste wines side by side?
Which tasting tip do I share with my students for developing their wine confidence?
Why is it important to have the mindset of an enthusiastic amateur?
Why are online courses more beneficial than free information?
How can you become an expert in your own taste to have new and better wine experiences?
Why do I believe online courses are better than in-person courses for a lot of people?
Why have I switched my focus to TV and video?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

42: Pairing Veggies & Wine, Chilling Wine Quickly, Resveratrol & Depression Sep 18, 2019

What makes veggies so hard to pair with wine? Are some types of wine better suited to veggie-pairings? How do you pair wine and veggies, especially the wine stalkers - asparagus and artichoke? How can you chill room-temperature wine in under 15 minutes? What does a new study say about the resveratrol in wine combatting depression?

If you've ever been stumped about how to enjoy wine with your salad or forgot to chill your wine in time for a dinner date, you're going to find the tips on this very helpful. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why is it more challenging to pair wine with vegetables than with meat?
Which wines should you avoid pairing with vegetables?
Can pickled and brined foods be paired with wine?
Which bridging ingredients help to bring together a meal of wine and vegetables?
Why are artichokes and asparagus so tricky to pair with wine?
How can you chill a room temperature bottle of wine in 15 minutes?
What does a new study say about resveratrol and depression?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

41: Travel the Wine World with Kevin Brauch Sep 11, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Kevin Brauch, a Gemini Award Winner, TV producer and host of hit series The Thirsty Traveler, Iron Chef America, SuperStar Chef Challenge, FOOD F!T. Kevin is one of the liveliest guests I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing, and he has so many stories to share, from his time with the late, great Anthony Bourdain, author of Kitchen Confidential, to sabering Champagne in France and wine faux pas in South Africa. Enjoy!

Highlights

How does Kevin sabre a sparkling wine bottle?
What is Kevin’s favourite thing about Spanish Cava?
How do the names of varietals impact wine choices?
How did Kevin meet Anthony Bourdain?
Why do the best chefs intertwine family and the kitchen?
What is Kevin’s favourite wine gadget?
Why does Kevin think we’re not making the right food shows?
What is Kevin’s best tip for getting to know more about wine?

About Kevin Brauch

Kevin Brauch is a 6-time Canadian Gemini Award Nominee and Gemini Award Winner. Kevin's broadcasting career began in earnest, after graduation from Ryerson (B.A.A. Radio & Television), as on-air personality, ’Revvin’ Kevin' at CFNY - FM102.1. Television was the next obvious step and took him to TVOntario as producer, writer and host of the kids, tweens and teens 4 hour, live, after school block of programming: TVOKids. The live block of programming allowed Brauch to create two award-winning shows for tweens: Off The Hook (OTH) and, the 'Get off the couch and do something!” Series, STUFF.

From there, a three-year stint on HGTV’s Canadian Gardening Television, a failed one-year 'convergence' project at CBC Toronto and then onwards to the solidification of Brauch’s career spent at Food Network, Food Network Canada, Discovery, SKY Travel (The Thirsty Traveler, Iron Chef America, SuperStar Chef Challenge, FOOD F!T). Discovery/HDTV also played a home in Brauch’s career; hosting & v/o the light-science docu-series Mega World.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

40: Pairing Tomatoes & Wine, Heatwave Impact, Gary Vaynerchuk's New Wine Club Sep 04, 2019

What's the best way to pair wine with tomatoes and tomato dishes? Will the current heatwave impact wine and the greater wine economy? How is Gary Vaynerchuk disrupting the way we buy wine? What effect does being in a romantic relationship have on your use or abuse of wine?

On this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I'm diving into all these topics plus I'm sharing some tips you can use to get the most out of my wine app for your next shopping trip.

Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

What should you consider when pairing wine with tomatoes?
What types of wine are well-suited to pairing with tomatoes?
How are the current heatwaves and record high temperatures affecting wine production around the world?
Which types of grapes are more susceptible to the heat?
How is Gary Vaynerchuk disrupting the way we buy wine?
What does a new study say about the effect of romantic relationships on alcohol consumption?
How can you use my wine app to make your next wine shopping trip easy?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

39: Do Wine Scores Matter? Bloomberg Columnist Elin McCoy on Robert Parker Aug 28, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with author Elin McCoy, who is the wine columnist for both Bloomberg News and Decanter magazine. Elin shares her controversial perspective on one of the juiciest topics in the wine world: the power of wine scores. Do wine scores still have sway over the way we buy wine? How is this changing with millennials and social media? Are scores actually a valid way of appraising a wine? How is the use of scores in liquor stores sometimes misleading? Elin explores all this and more, including why Robert Parker made such an interesting subject for her book, The Emperor of Wine: The Rise of Robert M. Parker, Jr., and the Reign of American Taste. Enjoy!

Highlights

How did a trip to a Mendocino vineyard turn the fancy wine writer stereotype on its head?
What is Elin’s approach to wine scoring?
What is Elin’s take on wines produced by brands like Walmart and Trader Joe’s?
Is the traditional wine critic still relevant, or is social media drowning them out?
How does Elin decide which wines to recommend?
What was it about Robert Parker that made him rise to prominence?
Why write a book about Robert Parker?

About Elin McCoy

Elin McCoy is an award-winning journalist and author, focusing on the world of wine. She is a wine and spirits columnist for Bloomberg News and a columnist for Decanter magazine. McCoy’s most recent book, The Emperor of Wine: The Rise of Robert M. Parker, Jr. and the Reign of American Taste, garnered international praise and has appeared in five foreign editions. She is also the co-author of Thinking About Wine. Elin serves regularly as a wine judge in American and international competitions and is a frequent speaker at wine festivals, symposia and industry events.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

38: Getting Hammered: Wine Auction Guide to Survival Aug 21, 2019

Did you know that wine auctions are on the rise, both as fundraisers and as commercial ways to buy and sell your cellar stash?

On this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I’m chatting with you about why auctions are increasing in popularity, their fascinating back story, and how you can participate in them without having a multimillion-dollar trust fund.

If you’re listening to this podcast on the day it’s published, please also join me on CTV News as we’ll be chatting about two of the world’s most popular wines, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon, including which ones to buy now. If you can’t tune in, then join my wine-happy community at nataliemaclean.com/joinus and I’ll send you the link to the videos of these two segments.

Enjoy the episode!

Highlights

Are the sky-high bids we often hear about a standard occurrence at wine auctions?
Why do wine auctions make such good fundraisers?
How do the results of wine auctions impact the wider wine world?
Is there more to wine auctions than investing and collecting?
What are the risks of buying wine at auctions?
What should you look for when inspecting wine before the auction?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

37: From Champagne to Napa Valley: Wine Stories with Tilar Mazzeo Aug 14, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Tilar Mazzeo, author and proprietor and winemaker at Parsell Vineyard. Her book The Widow Clicquot, a biography of Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin, the founder of the champagne house Veuve Clicquot became a bestseller on the New York Times, and a film adaptation of the book is in the works. Tilar gives us the story behind the Champagne and the woman who built not only this prestigious luxury brand but was instrumental in the development of the industry as we know it. She also shares her inspiration and insights from developing the Back-Lane Wineries series. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why did Veuve Clicquot become such a sought after brand?
What were some of the Widow Clicquot’s most remarkable innovations?
What is the connecting thread through many of Tilar’s writings?
What is raw wine?
Where can you find Parsell Vineyard?
What is Tilar’s favourite wine gadget?
What’s the best piece of wine advice Tilar has received?

About Tilar Mazzeo

Tilar J. Mazzeo is the Clara C. Piper Associate Professor of English at Colby College, in Waterville, Maine. She is the author of numerous works of narrative nonfiction, and several of her books, including the “oenobiography” The Widow Clicquot, have been New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and Los Angeles Times bestsellers. She was a nationally prominent wine writer in the United States before emigrating to Canada, and her writing on wine has appeared in venues such as Food & Wine magazine and in her guide book series The Back-Lane Wineries of Sonoma, The Back-Lane Wineries of Napa, and The Back-Lane Wineries of New York. She holds a certificate from the winemaking program at the University of California at Davis and is currently the proprietor and winemaker at her family’s estate project, Parsell Vineyard in Saanichton, British Columbia.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

36: Airline Wine: Flights of Wine You Can Drink Without Reservations Aug 07, 2019

If you want great wine these days you don’t have to fly thousands of miles to get it, you can sip it en route. But getting wine to taste delicious at 30,000 feet isn’t easy.

If you’re flying somewhere anytime soon, you’ll find our chat about airline wines today uplifting. In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, I’m going to cover which wines are best to drink when you’re in the air, how your sense of smell and taste change, and why airlines are paying more attention to their wine selections on board these days. Enjoy!

Highlights

What would my wine-centric dream flight look like?
How can food and wine offer airlines a competitive advantage?
Have in-flight wine lists evolved in recent years?
How does altitude affect your palate?
What types of considerations have to be made when airlines select in-flight wines?
What unique solutions have airlines developed to improve the in-flight wine experience?
How do the major airlines choose their wine selections?
Why would wineries want to be on airline wine lists?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

35: Smart Tests for Wine Acidity, Tannin & Balance with Sommelier Chris Scott Jul 31, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Chris Scott, a U.K.-based sommelier who published the world’s first-ever wine podcast, the UK Wine Show. Chris and his wife, Jane also founded ThirtyFifty, a company which offers fun and no-nonsense wine tastings for private and corporate events. From his adventures as a triathlete to wine tastings in a hot tub, Chris shares his often-hilarious adventures as well as his brilliant tasting tips, including nifty ways to physically see how acidic or tannic wine is and insights into the U.K. wine industry. Enjoy!

Highlights

How did ThirtyFifty get started?
How can you identify and describe tannins during a tasting?
How does Chris define balance in wine?
Why does Chris believe it’s so important for wine tastings and teaching to be experiential?
How has the UK wine scene changed over the years?
Are there any connections between the growing conditions in the UK and in Champagne?
What is the best wine advice Chris has ever received?

About Chris Scott

Chris Scott is an award-winning wine podcaster and presenter who runs wine tasting company called ThirtyFifty and produces a weekly wine podcast, The UK Wine Show, which is consistently ranked in the top 10 Apple Podcasts’ Food & Drink charts.

Born and bred in New Zealand, Chris spent time as a student working hands-on in the vineyards of Canterbury before graduating with first class honours in engineering.

In 2001, he moved to London U.K. and now holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines & Spirits, the top qualification. He now heads up a team of 20 wine experts across the UK, between them running more than 500 corporate events, wine courses and private tastings per year.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

34: Seafood Pairings, Flying Corks, Sober Curious Jul 24, 2019

This past Friday, in a scene not unfamiliar to Champagne lovers everywhere, one Wimbledon spectator lost control of his cork, which then made it's way onto the court and stopped the men’s match. But not to worry, I've got you covered. On today's episode, I'm sharing the exact method you can use to avoid disaster when opening your bubbly.

We're also going to talk about another challenge for many wine lovers - pairing wine with seafood. From cod to oysters, salmon and more, I'm giving you my best insider tips to help you find a pairing you'll love. Finally, we're going to explore the new trend of sober curious wine drinkers as reported in the New York Times recently. This last bit is controversial, and I get real honest about my own drinking.

Highlights

How did Champagne corks end up on the court during a Wimbledon match?
What's the right way to open a bottle of bubbly?
What wine pairings do I recommend for white fish, salmon, meaty fish and oysters?
Are there any insider tips for pairing wine and seafood?
Why am I so intrigued by the concept of sober curious?
How do I think about alcoholism?
Why do I think an interesting life is lived in the grey zone?
What role does wine and moderation play in gender-related issues?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

33: The Smart Woman Behind the Wine for Dummies Books: Mary Ewing-Mulligan MW Jul 17, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Mary Ewing-Mulligan, president of the International Wine Center and the first woman in America to become a Master of Wine. She’s also just published the seventh edition of the book “Wine For Dummies.” Mary's motto "Peace. Community. Wine." is a wonderful summary of the work she's doing in the wine industry, from wine education to advocating for women in the industry, to her tenacity and determination to achieve the highest designation and continuing to grow her knowledge and ability. I really enjoyed this fantastic chat and I know you'll get a lot from her journey. Enjoy!

Highlights

Where did Mary get the idea to write Wine for Dummies?
Does the “for Dummies” title ever get a negative reception?
When did Mary decide to test for the Master of Wine programme?
How long did it take for Mary to achieve the Master of Wine designation?
What are Mary’s thoughts on the current situation for women in the wine industry?
How can veteran women in the wine industry support younger women just starting out?
Is the impact of climate change on the wine industry being discussed by industry leaders?

About Mary Ewing-Mulligan

Mary Ewing-Mulligan, president of International Wine Center, is the first woman in America to become a Master of Wine. This title represents the highest level of knowledge and proficiency in the wine trade. Currently 369 individuals worldwide are Masters of Wine, including 45 in the U.S.

In addition to heading International Wine Center, Mary is co-author (with her husband, Ed McCarthy) of “Wine For Dummies” and “Wine Style, Using your senses to explore and enjoy wine,” both published by John Wiley & Sons. With more than one million copies sold, translations into 38 languages, and an audio tape, Wine For Dummies is the fastest-selling wine book ever in the U.S. The couple have also authored White Wine For Dummies, Red Wine For Dummies, Wine Buying Companion For Dummies, Italian Wine For Dummies and French Wine For Dummies.

Mary Ewing-Mulligan was wine columnist for The Daily News in New York City for more than ten years, as well as a columnist for trade magazines, “Nation’s Restaurant News” and “Beverage Dynamics.” She also contributed wine articles to several publications in the U.S. and England. She is a past president of the Institute of Masters of Wine (North America) and currently serves as one of its Directors.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

32: Orange Wines, Pairings for Meatless Burgers Jul 10, 2019

Is orange the new white? Which wines pair best with meatless burgers? How do you keep your wines cool in the summer heat? I'd love for you to share your questions or comments with me. You can do that in the comments on the show notes post or email me at natalie@nataliemaclean.com. Enjoy!

Highlights

Are orange wines a fad or here to stay?
Which wines to pair with the new meatless burgers?
How do you keep your wines cool in the summer heat, especially when dining outdoors?
How is orange wine made?
What are the specifications and requirements for Canadian orange wine?
Who makes orange wines in Ontario?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

31: Pairing Wine & Charcuterie with Jennifer McLagan Jul 03, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Jennifer McLagan, an author and expert in charcuterie. Sometimes, I think we’ve become so paranoid about fat in our diets that we forget that not all fats are alike. Jennifer talks about those that are good for us, and together, we discover some terrific wines to pair with them. Enjoy!

Highlights

How does Jennifer respond to people who are concerned about “healthy eating”?
How should charcuterie be served?
What does it mean for meat to be cured?
What’s the difference between regional cured hams such as Serrano, prosciutto and pata negra?
Can you pair pickled and brined foods with wine?
Are there wines that don’t pair well with charcuterie?
What goes into putting together a charcuterie plate at home?
What's the difference between pâté, terrine and rillettes?

About Jennifer McLagan

Jennifer McLagan is the author of the widely acclaimed books Bones (2005), Fat (2008), Odd Bits (2011), Bitter (2014) and Les Os (2014). All her books made The New York Times list of top cookbooks and she has won four James Beard Awards. Fat was named the James Beard Cookbook of the Year. Her book Bitter, was selected by The Guardian as one of the top ten food books, made the list for the Art of Eating prize, and was featured in the Wall Street Journal, New Scientist and British Vogue.

Australian by birth, Jennifer left behind a degree in economics and politics to train in the food business, beginning her professional life in the kitchens of the Southern Cross Hotel in Melbourne. Work as a chef took her to England, where she practiced her trade at Prue Leith’s highly regarded restaurant in London and then in the kitchens of Winfield House, home of the U.S. ambassador. Equipped with a quirky sense of humour, and a contrarian point of view, Jennifer McLagan is known for taking on challenging subjects and questioning our relationship to what we eat.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

30: Canada Day Wines Jun 26, 2019

In honour of Canada Day on July 1st, we're doing a deep dive into Canadian wine, including some colourful history and surprising facts that you can drop casually at your barbecue gathering as you crack open a bottle.

What do Canadian wine regions have to offer visitors? Why do Canadian wines make up only 1/3 of the wine we buy in Canada? We're also testing your vinous savvy with The Great Canadian Wine Quiz. I'd love to hear how you did - email me or tag me on social media.

Highlights

What were the Canadian wines of the 70s and 80s like?
Why are Canadian wines often less expensive than imported wines?
What is the Celine Dion-Shania Twain Syndrome that Canadian wines are suffering from?
Why do Canadian wines only account for 1/3 of the wine purchased in Canada?
What experiences can you have when visiting a Canadian winery?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

29: Wine Scandals, Fakes and Forgery with Maureen Downey Jun 19, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Maureen Downey, a.k.a. the Wine Detective, about wine forgeries, fakes and scandals. You’ll learn tips on how to spot a fake wine based on the label and more. Enjoy!

Highlights

Why did Maureen become interested in wine fraud?
What aspects of the wine does Maureen consider to determine its authenticity?
How does Maureen use technology when testing a wine’s authenticity?
How pervasive is wine counterfeiting?
What is blockchain and how can it help us to trace the provenance of a bottle of wine?
What are some of the simple information mistakes wine counterfeiters have made?
How can the average wine buyer avoid becoming a victim of wine fraud?
What role does the wine industry play in perpetuating wine fraud?

About Maureen Downey

Maureen Downey, DWS, CWE, FWS is known as the Sherlock Holmes of wines and is considered the world’s foremost expert in counterfeit wine identification. She is an expert on rare wines and an authority on wine fraud, counterfeit and fine wine authentication. She earned a degree in hospitality from Boston University and she took the advanced sommelier exams at the age of 23.

Over the past 20 years, she has inspected hundreds of millions of dollars worth of both authentic and counterfeit wine. She advises some of the world’s top collectors in purchasing, selling, and managing their collections with her firm Chai Consulting based in San Francisco. She has assisted the government prosecution in the biggest wine counterfeiting cased, ever tried by the US government and continues to work with law enforcement to investigate wine fraud cases. You can also catch her in the Netflix film, Sour Grapes.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

28: Father's Day Wines Jun 12, 2019

This Sunday is Father’s Day, so I’m going to get downright practical on this episode with some terrific gift wines suggestions that you can buy dear old dad.

So, how do you choose the perfect gift bottle? And is there such a thing as “man’s wine” versus a woman’s wine”? Of course, it’s all awash once you’re on to your third glass of Pinot or Cabernet. Let’s dig in, shall we?

Highlights

Does the research show a difference in wine consumption between men and women?
Why has it taken so long for wine companies to target their marketing towards men?
What approach do wine companies take when marketing to men?
How are canned wines marketing themselves differently from bottled wines?
What are my top wine picks for Father’s Day gifts?

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

27: Gripping Wine Stories with San Francisco Chronicle Wine Columnist Esther Mobley Jun 05, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Esther Mobley, on the gripping stories that catapulted her to become the columnist for one of the most prestigious wine columns in North America, the San Francisco Chronicle, at just 24 years of age. Enjoy!

Highlights

How did Esther’s college admissions essay end up in the New York Times?
Should wine writers all experience winemaking?
What has changed about California winemaking since Esther started writing for the San Francisco Chronicle in 2015?
What is Esther’s opinion on natural wine and its growing popularity?
How did Esther connect with Alecia “P!nk” Moore and end up interviewing her?
What does the $315 million sale of Meiomi wines mean for the wine industry?
Can a brand be authentic without owning a vineyard?
What are some interesting insights that Esther uncovered in her exploration of food and wine pairing with Ali Bouzari?

About Esther Mobley

Esther Mobley is a staff writer at the San Francisco Chronicle. She writes primarily about wine, and her beat also includes beer, spirits, drinking culture and, occasionally, doughnuts. In her regular Drink Up column, she reviews Bay Area bars. Before joining The Chronicle, Mobley was an assistant editor at Wine Spectator magazine in New York. She has worked two harvests, in Napa, California and Mendoza, Argentina. She studied English literature at Smith College.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

26: Wine & War: The Vinous Insurrection May 29, 2019

Welcome back for Part Two of an audio essay to celebrate National Wine Day, this past Saturday, May 25.

Most of what I’m going to share with you today is based on a magazine piece about wine and civility that I wrote two months after 9/11. On this episode we're looking at the role wine has played in some of the greatest conflicts our world has ever seen from French winemakers' fight against the Nazi wine trade, to the impact of 9/11 on the US wine economy.

If you missed part one, please go back and have a listen to Episode 24. I hope this is drink for thought for you.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

25: Pairing Wine and Yoga to Unwined with Morgan Perry May 22, 2019

In this episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, we’re chatting with Morgan Perry who pairs wine and yoga in her Vino Vinyasa classes. More than marketing or whimsy, it’s actually rooted in a holistic lifestyle philosophy. Enjoy!

Highlights

What is a yoga vinyasa class experience like?
What are vinyasa and shavasana?
Why does Morgan believe yoga enhances the wine tasting experience?
How does Morgan make her classes accessible for students at all levels?
What’s the most interesting feedback Morgan has gotten about her class?
Is the wine and yoga crossover a growing trend?
Morgan shares some fun wine and yoga pose matches

About Morgan Perry

Morgan Perry is the founder of Vino Vinyasa Yoga. Morgan's wine experience started in wine marketing and PR at an agency in New York City, but it wasn't until she took a trip to Chile that she truly fell in love with wine. She returned to New York and began taking Wine and Spirit Education Trust classes to learn more. She now has her Advanced Certification, which she passed with distinction.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

24: National Wine Day Prompts These Thoughts May 15, 2019

May 25 is National Wine Day and in honour of that, I think it’s worth exploring how wine, as a beverage, has influenced our culture. Wine has been an integral part of human history from ancient civilizations right through to the modern day. It has become deeply associated with culture, power and prestige in a way that no other beverage has.

Most of what I’m going to share with you today is based on a magazine piece about wine and civility that I wrote two months after 9/11. However, the search for civility in everyday life has more resonance than ever, with the seemingly daily mass shootings in various places around the world, the ongoing threat of ISIS, and the aggression that many women and others face daily on social media.

I’m going to break this topic up into two episodes, with today's show being part one, and part two will be published on May 29. I welcome your thoughts on this audio essay!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

23: Randall Grahm: A Californian Blend of Wine, Wit and Wisdom May 08, 2019

In today’s episode, we’re chatting with the rockstar Californian winemaker Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon winery who blends wit and wisdom unlike any other person in the wine world. He’s brilliant both in his insights and his metaphors.

That’s why I chose to help him with the fall harvest for my second book “Unquenchable: A Tipsy Search for the World’s Best Bargain Wines.” His wines are also often favourites of the students of my online courses.

Randall Grahm was born in Los Angeles in 1953 and attended the University of California at Santa Cruz where he was a permanent Liberal Arts major. Sometime later he found himself working at the Wine Merchant in Beverly Hills sweeping floors. By dint of exceptionally good karma, he was given the opportunity to taste an ungodly number of great French wines and this singular experience turned him into a complete and insufferable wine fanatic. He returned to the University of California at Davis to complete a degree in Plant Sciences in 1979, where owing to his single-minded obsession with Pinot Noir he was regarded as a bit of a holy terroir in the hallowed halls of the sober and sedate Department of Viticulture and Enology.

With his family’s assistance, Randall purchased property in the Santa Cruz Mountains in a quaint eponymous hamlet known as Bonny Doon, intent on producing the Great American Pinot Noir. The GAPN proved to be systematically elusive but he was greatly encouraged by experimental batches of Rhône varieties, and he has been a tireless champion of the grapes of the Rhône since the inaugural vintage of Le Cigare Volant. His idiosyncratic newsletters and articles have been collected, carefully redacted, and with the inclusion of some timely new material, published as the award-winning book, Been Doon So Long: A Randall Grahm Vinthology in 2009.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

22: Behind-the-Scenes Peek at Writing Red, White and Drunk All Over May 01, 2019

What role have books played in my exploration of wine regions around the world? What's it like tasting ultra high-end wine? How is wine portrayed in literature? Today we're talking about all that and more in a behind-the-scenes peek at Red, White and Drunk All Over.

Today's show is a little different from the usual. I’m excited to share this episode from the Behind the Bookshelves podcast, where I was interviewed by Richard Davies. Richard has kindly given me permission to include this interview on my show for you. If you love books as much as I do, be sure to check out his podcast where he features interviews with authors about their books and related topics.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

21: Is Wine the Source of Civilization? John Mahoney Thinks So and Here's Why Apr 24, 2019

In today’s episode, we’re chatting with the author John Mahoney who has written several books on wine, but we’ll be focusing on his latest: Is Wine the Source of Civilization?

Spoiler alert, the answer is yes. But the more interesting question is why? He has some fascinating answers, plus some of the best practical tips on enjoying wine that I’ve ever heard. One has to do with temperature … keep listening for that one towards the end of our chat. Enjoy!

John J. Mahoney is a Certified Wine Educator and a Literature Professor. He is the author of eight books, including his most recent, Wine: The Source of Civilization and he is Chancellor of the Dionysian Society International, a member of the American Wine Society, a Chevalerie du Verre Galant (Knights of Cognac), President of New Jersey Club Zinfandel, Director of the Tri-State Wine College, and the voice of “Weekend Wine Tips.” A respected scholar of Shakespeare and Chaucer, he uses classic educational techniques when teaching about wine. He hosts corporate wine seminars and is presently the World Ambassador for the Grand Vin wine glass series for Chef & Sommelier.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

20: Why You Need to Know Malbec Truly, Madly, Deeply Apr 17, 2019

Have you tried Malbec? Did you like it? Which ones are your favourites? From Argentina to France, Malbecs are not all created equal. For me, it was an Argentine Malbec that first piqued my curiosity, leading me to start buying more. I followed that curiosity down to Argentina itself in my second book, Unquenchable: A Tipsy Search for the World’s Best Bargain Bottles.

On this episode, in honour of World Malbec Day, I'm taking you with me on a journey to the Bodega Catana Zapata winery in Argentina to explore all things malbec and chat about why Malbec is a deep, dark, delicious red wine that you need to get to know better.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

19: How to Become the World’s Best Sommelier with Arvid Rosengren Apr 10, 2019

Arvid Rosengren is one of the most merited sommeliers in the world, holding a range of competition wins and titles, the crowning achievement being the 2016 A.S.I. Best Sommelier of the World, a competition held every three years for candidates representing sixty countries. It tests theoretical knowledge, blind tastings of various beverages and practical service skills

Born and raised in the south of Sweden, Arvid initially studied Nanotechnology Engineering but figured out half-way through that working with his true passion – food and wine – would be preferable to wearing a lab coat. After a brief time in Stockholm and a period at the Hotel du Vin in the UK, Arvid settled in Copenhagen, Denmark, where he spent the next six years growing from the floor sommelier of a busy restaurant to wine director for an ambitious group of almost a dozen establishments. Arvid was born and raised in Sweden and initially studied Nanotechnology Engineering, but decided to change his career path to food and wine. He has worked at several of the world’s best restaurants in Stockholm, Copenhagen, Britain and New York City.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

18: Wine and Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Atkins, South Beach and Other Diets (Does Wine Make You Fat?) Apr 03, 2019

Does wine make you fat? Can you drink wine while you’re on a diet? What about diets like paleo, keto, South Beach, Atkins and gluten-free? In recent years some winemakers have started producing or re-labelling low-carb and low-calorie wines that cater to or many and varied special diets. Are they really worth it or is it just a fad?

That’s exactly what we’re going to dive into this week as we explore how our bodies process alcohol, the surprising statistics about weight gain and wine and whether you should buy a bottle of low-carb wine on your next trip to the store.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

17: Organic and Biodynamic Wine with Thomas Bachelder Mar 27, 2019

Thomas Bachelder is a Canadian winemaking superstar on a mission when it comes to cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. After studying in France and having a successful winemaking career in Canada, Thomas started his own label where not only does he make wine in Ontario, but he also has vineyards in Burgundy and Oregon. The Bachelder project started with the 2009 vintage with the three terroirs series: Three regions; Three wines. As he describes it, the hands, techniques and the palates remain the same, only the terroirs change.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

16: Are Organic Wines Better for You? Mar 20, 2019

What exactly is organic wine? Is it better for you? In recent years, organic wine has moved from the realms of health nuts and hippies to the mainstream, where it now represents one of the fastest-growing categories in the liquor store. But is it really that different from conventional wine?

With Earth Hour coming up on March 30 and Earth Day on April 22, I’m dedicating today’s episode to organic wine, with a deep dive into what it is, its history and what the research shows about its benefits.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

15: What to Ask the Sommelier with Lesley Brown, Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers Mar 13, 2019

Lesley Brown has been a part of the Canadian Wine Industry for the past 17 years and works with several high profile wine agencies. She holds an International Sommelier Diploma and has taught wine courses to hundreds of students. Lesley is currently the BC Regional Sales Manager for The Bacchus Group and she also sits on the board of directors for the Import Spirit and Vintners Association and has recently taken over as the President of CAPS BC and the Vice President of the CAPS National Board.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

14: Bottle of the Sexes: Women v Men on Wine Mar 06, 2019

Are men from Bordeaux and women from Burgundy? In my 20 years of studying and writing about wine, I’ve encountered a lot of differences in how men and women approach the subject. There are also several studies that show the same thing.

In honour of International Women’s Day this week, I’m diving deep into “women’s wines”, whether they’re actually any good and how wines marketed to women are affecting the industry.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

13: Blending Humour and Wine in South Africa with Charles Back, Fairview Wine Feb 27, 2019

Charles Louis Back is the third generation owner of South African wine and cheese producer Fairview, in Paarl in the Western Cape Province. Charles Back studied winemaking at Elsenburg Agricultural College in Stellenbosch. He officially joined his family’s company in 1978 and took over full control in 1995 after the death of his father, Cyril.

Today, Charles Back is known as one of the great entrepreneurs and innovators of the wine world – an individual who likes nothing more to swim against the stream. From the start, he has done things differently, introducing Mediterranean grapes such as Viognier, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Petite Sirah to the Cape. He then expanded the Fairview umbrella to three arterial sub-brands – La Capra, Bloemcool and Goats Do Roam – a brand which went on to become the highest selling South African wine brand in the United States following its introduction in 2000.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

12: Wine Scores: Misleading or Helpful to Consumers? Feb 20, 2019

It’s unbelievable to consider that there’s a huge industry of specialists dedicating their lives to wine in the form of writers, sommeliers and critics. Why has wine inspired us in a way no other food or drink does?

In this episode, I explore the questions around why we score wine in the first place, whether they really matter and if you should trust them.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

11: The World's Best Wines with Forbes Columnist Katie Kelly Bell Feb 13, 2019

Katie Kelly Bell has been writing about food, wine and travel for over a dozen years, with her writing appearing in publications such as Forbes, USA Today, Modern Luxury, Decanter and Southern Living. Her experiences have taken her from the vineyards of Argentina to the press houses of Champagne. In between, she has co-authored a travel guide to Ireland, The Everything Guide to Ireland, written a city guide for Atlanta and worked as a Senior Editor at The Wine Report. Katie also appears on the CNN Airport Channel as a travel expert and on WSB Atlanta radio, talking about wine. Katie has travelled the world exploring many sides of the wine ecosystem and she lives in Atlanta with her three kids, one dog and a very patient husband.

In this episode, we talk about Katie’s experience learning about and tasting the best wine in the world, her exploration into wine consumption, moderation and health and lessons learned from top winemakers.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

10: Wines for Seduction: A Vine Romance for Valentine's Day Feb 06, 2019

Do you want to seduce someone this Valentine’s Day? Forget the lingerie, lipstick and silk-tie handcuffs - just share a glass or two of wine with your amour.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, I’m going to share with you my favourite wines for seduction, including some melt in your mouth pairings with chocolate.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

9: Are Vegan & Vegetarian Wines Better for You? Ezra Cipes, Summerhill Winery, BC, Has Answers Jan 30, 2019

Ezra Cipes is proud to carry on the family legacy at Summerhill Pyramid Winery. Since the Cipes family moved from New York to Summerhill Vineyard in Kelowna, British Columbia when Cipes was five, he has grown up in the wine industry and feels blessed to now lead a company dedicated to creating beauty in collaboration with nature. After reconnecting with the winery and the land, Cipes knew he needed to assume a greater role at the winery. He became Chief Operations Officer in 2008 and CEO in 2012.

In this episode, we talk about how vegan and vegetarian wines are different, whether they're better for us, the inside scoop on these and why sustainable winemaking matters.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

8: Scandalous Wine Women on TV Jan 23, 2019

I have to confess: I am obsessed with Alicia Florrick, the successful attorney on The Good Wife, and Olivia Pope, the high-powered Washington D.C. “fixer” on Scandal. In this episode, I’m going to share with you my secret obsession with the wine drinking habits of these women on television and what I believe that says about our cultural relationship with wine.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

7: Wine Confidential: An Insider Look at the Wine World with Bianca Bosker Jan 16, 2019

Bianca Bosker is an award-winning journalist and the author of the New York Times Best Seller, Cork Dork: A Wine-Fueled Adventure Among the Obsessive Sommeliers, Big Bottle Hunters, and Rogue Scientists Who Taught Me to Live for Taste, which has been hailed as the “Kitchen Confidential of wine.” Bianca has written about food, wine, architecture, and technology for The New Yorker online, The Atlantic, The New York Times, Food & Wine, The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, and The New Republic, among other publications.

In this episode, Bianca and I talk about her early days as a tech writer and how she stumbled into the wine world, the secret language high-end restaurants use to categorize their patrons, why you may actually learn something from licking rocks, and more!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

6: Secret Book Club Reading of Red, White and Drunk All Over Jan 09, 2019

Are you curious about what’s behind the covers of my book, Red, White and Drunk All Over: A Wine-Soaked Journey from Grape to Glass Audio Edition (which you'll hear me refer to as "RWD")? In this episode, I’m inviting you to pull up your most comfortable imaginary chair for a secret book club reading of the juiciest bits of RWD, which was named one of the best books of the year by the Globe and Mail, New York Times and Amazon.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

5: Wine & Health: Benefits, Risks and Surprises with Dr. Edward Miller Jan 02, 2019

Dr. Edward Miller is a board-certified physician, author, & researcher and he has been passionate about wine since taking a wine appreciation course 30 years ago during medical school. He is a regular attendee at The International Wine-Heart Health Summits and a member of The Renaud Society, an international society of medical professionals investigating the role of wine in health. Dr. Miller is an advanced-level certified wine sommelier from the International Wine & Spirits Guild and he and his wife are practising physicians in southeast Arizona.

In this episode, we talk about what moderation really means in wine consumption, the amazing healthy compounds present in some wines, the relationship between wine, breast cancer, dementia, and diabetes, how moderate drinking can increase longevity by five to six years, and more!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

4: Sneak Peak Behind-the-Scenes: Publishing a Wine Audiobook Dec 26, 2018

Have you ever wondered how an audiobook gets made and then sold via Apple Books, Amazon and Audible around the world? In this episode, I’m sharing my journey from idea to audiobook and we’ll go behind the scenes of creating the new audio edition of my book Red, White and Drunk All Over: A Wine-Soaked Journey from Grape to Glass (RWD). I’ll also share with you some terrific sparkling wines that pair perfectly with ringing in the New Year.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

3: Why Do You Like the Wines You Do with Marnie Old and Jean-Charles Boisset Dec 19, 2018

Sommelier and author Marnie Old and winemaker Jean-Charles Boisset of Domaine de la Vougeraie, have co-authored a book, Passion For Wine: The French Ideal and the American Dream, which has some truly innovative ways to help you understand why you like certain wines and not others.

In this episode, Marnie and Jean-Charles share with us why it's so hard for people to identify their personal preferences in wine, how to use the "Spectrum of Style" as a wine pairing tool, the easy way to know if an expensive wine is worth the price, and more!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

2: Wine Confession: Loving the Buzz of Alcohol Dec 12, 2018

As I mentioned in the introductory episode of the Unreserved Wine Talk podcast, every other episode I’ll be doing a solo episode where I offer up some of my personal wine confessions. This is the first of these special confessional episodes.

Many of these stories I’ve never shared publicly. Some will be funny, others will be funny, and a few will be embarrassing. I’ve decided to share these confessions with you not because I’m a psychological exhibitionist, but because you might you might be able to relate, and I want you to know you’re not alone.

Take a listen to my confessional episode as I talk about a taboo subject in the world of wine; loving the buzz of alcohol.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

1: Wine Forgery and True Wine Crime with Pete Hellman Dec 12, 2018

Peter Hellman is a New York-based wine journalist and best-selling author. His writing has appeared in Wine Spectator, The Wall Street Journal, New York Post, New York Times, New York Sun and his bestselling books include In Vino Duplicitas: The Rise and Fall of a Wine Forger Extraordinaire and Chief!: Classic Cases from the Files of the Chief of Detectives and When Courage Was Stronger than Fear. Peter started writing about Rudy Kurniawan in 2008 and has covered the story ever since.

In this episode, Pete shares with us why wine makes a good candidate for forgery and how he landed on the story of Rudy Kurniawan and several fantastic stories and experiences from over the years, and so much more!

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

Introducing the Unreserved Wine Talk Podcast: Unfiltered Wine Conversations and Confessions Nov 20, 2018

Welcome to this special introduction to the Unreserved Wine Talk Podcast!

My name is Natalie MacLean and I’ve been writing about wine for twenty years. Growing up in a small Nova Scotia town, I used to think that wine was just for fancy people. However, I now know that the pure pleasure and passion of wine is for everyone.

This podcast serves to help you take the journey I’ve taken with wine. One that will move you away from confusion, embarrassment, and disappointment to a place confidence, ease, joy, and pure pleasure.

In this special episode, you’ll discover exactly how this podcast is going to guide you on that journey and you’ll also learn a little more about me and why I feel this is exactly what I was put on this planet to do.

So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine and take a listen to this episode.

To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes.

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