Italian Wine Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 2729 Piemonte, Fine Wine and the US Market with Laura DePasquale MS | Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026 Jul 05, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to episode 2729 of the Italian Wine Podcast recorded live at Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026.

As an official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, Piedmont's premier wine event that took place on January 26-27, in Turin. Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today, Stevie Kim’s guest is Laura DePasquale MS, Master Sommelier and one of the leading voices in fine wine distribution in the United States.

Laura shares her perspective on Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, describing the event as a unique opportunity to taste some of the best wines being produced in Piedmont, meet producers directly, and explore the many identities of the region, from Barolo and Barbaresco to Barbera, Dolcetto, Pelaverga, Freisa and Ruchè.

In this conversation, Laura also discusses her work with Domaine & Estates, the fine and artisanal wine division she helped build within Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits. She explains how a large distributor can support small-production wines through logistics, education and market access, and why Italy remains such an important country for discovery in the US wine market.

Laura and Stevie also talk about the current challenges facing wine distribution in the United States, from market uncertainty to tariffs, and what Piedmont producers should keep in mind when approaching American buyers today.

About the Grandi Langhe:

Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine events, dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Piedmont. Organized with the support of the region’s leading wine consortia, it brings together hundreds of producers representing top denominations such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Roero, Gavi, Asti, and Alta Langa. The event is designed as a key meeting point for international trade, offering tastings, professional networking, and a powerful snapshot of Piedmont’s role in the global wine market.

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Ep. 2728 Ep. 4: Bordeaux Right Bank | Study Smart for your WSET Level 3 Jul 04, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 2728 of the Italian Wine Podcast and Episode 4 of Study Smart with Gill Gordon Smith.

Ep. 4: Bordeaux Right Bank

Study Smart for your WSET Level 3 is a new series of audio learning resources specifically created for wine students. This new series consists of 30 episodes, each focusing on a particular wine region, with the objective of equipping listeners with the knowledge and expertise they need to prepare for industry-standard courses such as WSET.

With exam strategies and techniques also included, the "Study Smart" series is designed to help wine students achieve their learning objectives in an accessible and engaging way.

This new series has been designed in partnership with the Italian Wine Academy, a Verona-based, internationally recognized wine school founded in 2017 that provides WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certification courses and specialized training.

The series is delivered by the acclaimed wine educator Gill Gordon Smith.

Gill is a VIA certified Italian Wine Expert, an artisan wine producer, retailer, writer, judge and educator based between Australia's McLaren Vale Region and Verona and Tuscany in Italy.

Look out for new episodes every week wherever you get your podcasts!

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Ep. 2727 A New Meaning for Autoctony | The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson Jul 03, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 2727 and Episode 10 of The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson.

In this episode, Ryan explores the evolving meaning of autochthony, looking beyond the simple definition of native grape varieties to examine how place, history, culture, and identity shape the stories we tell about wine.

Episode 10: A New Meaning for Autoctony

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass.

About Ryan Robinson:

Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting Team, representing the United States and the World Wine Tasting Championships and holds the credentials of Advanced Sommelier-CMS; WSET Diploma and WSET Educator in Wine, Sake and Beer; Rioja Wine Educator; VIA Italian Wine Ambassador; Wine Scholar Guild Educator and Italian and Spanish Wine Specialist; and Certified Scotch Whisky.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommryan/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sommryan/

The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza is available now at: https://mammajumboshrimp.com/products/the-art-of-wine-storytelling

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Ep. 2726 What Makes Great Prosecco? Stephanie Johnson IWE Interviews Claudio Francavilla of L'Antica Quercia | Clubhouse Ambassadors' Corner Jul 02, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Clubhouse’s Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2726 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Stephanie Johnson IWE interviews Claudio Francavilla from L'Antica Quercia in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene.

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast.

Key Learning Objectives:

Discover how a long-term commitment to one winery can shape a winemaker's philosophy and approach to quality.
Understand the key differences between the two styles of Prosecco produced by the winery, including what makes each unique.
Learn how the Conegliano terroir influences the character and identity of the winery's wines.

More about today’s host:

As well as being a certified Italian Wine Expert (IWE), Stephanie Johnson holds a WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits. Her wine career spans the journalism, retail and restaurant sectors. She joined Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2013 and later served as Italian Wine Editor from 2016 to 2024. Stephanie has judged at international competitions such as the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon in Bordeaux and 5StarWines – the Book in Verona. She has led masterclasses for top sommeliers in New York City and presented at major industry events including Vinitaly and wine2wine Business Forum in Verona. A passionate educator, she teaches WSET Level 2, Level 3, and Diploma courses at NYC’s International Wine Center. Her upcoming venture, SteepleJack, will spotlight the heroic stories of Italian wine producers, blending deep expertise with compelling storytelling.

Connect:

Website: https://steeplejackwine.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-johnson-dws-b0a0121a/

More about today’s guest:

Claudio does not come from a family of winemakers, but for many years now L'Antica Quercia has been home for him, the place to realise his personal idea of agriculture and wine. For Claudio the soil is everything, everything is born from there, the care and healthiness of the soil has become his obsession and that of his team! The dream that has been chasing for several years is to make transparent, luminous wines, that speak of terroir and people more than wine technique, wines that know how to express and make you taste the agricultural organism from where they are born and know how to be witnesses of the vintage. For this reason, organic agriculture 20 years ago and biodynamic practices 10 years ago have been naturally matured choices for Claudio, the only ones possible, especially now that climate change makes everything more complex.

Connect:

Website: https://www.anticaquercia.it

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lanticaquercia/

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Ep. 2725 Ep. 22: Tra Mare, Nuraghi e Vigneti | Pellegrinaggio Enoico con Attilio Scienza Jul 01, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 2725 of the Italian Wine Podcast and the 22nd episode of Pellegrinaggio Enoico con Professore Attilio Scienza! This series is recorded in Italian.

Episode 22: Tra Mare, Nuraghi e Vigneti

You want to dive into the stories and myths behind Professor Scienza’s new series, but Italian isn’t your thing? No problem! You’ll find all the conversations, translated in english, in the new Mamma Jumbo Shrimp book: An Italian Wine Pilgrimage: with Professor Attilio Scienza. Now available in English on Amazon.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine.

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti.

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

Ep. 2724 Chef Moreno Cedroni: Adriatic Seafood, Fish Charcuterie, and Hospitality | Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon Jun 30, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to episode 2724 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 250 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc speaks with Chef Moreno Cedroni, one of Italy's most innovative and influential chefs.

Their conversation explores Cedroni's acclaimed Ricordi di Infanzia ("Childhood Memories") menu, the rich seafood traditions of Italy's Adriatic coast, and the creative process behind his culinary laboratory. They discuss his pioneering work in developing the world's first fish charcuterie line, Anikò, launched in 2003, the use of techniques such as liquid nitrogen in modern gastronomy, and his approach to wine pairing.

More about today’s guest:

Chef Moreno Cedroni is one of Italy's leading culinary innovators and a pioneer of contemporary seafood cuisine. In 1984, he founded Madonnina del Pescatore in Senigallia, which earned its first Michelin star in 1996 and now holds two Michelin stars. Over the years, he has launched several successful projects, including Anikò, the world's first fish charcuterie line, Clandestino Susci Bar, where he developed his signature Mediterranean-style sushi, and Officina, a research and development laboratory dedicated to culinary innovation.

Known for combining creativity, technical precision, and deep respect for local ingredients, Cedroni has become one of the most influential figures in Italian gastronomy, inspiring chefs and food lovers around the world.

Connect:

Website: https://www.morenocedroni.it/en/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morenocedroni/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moreno-cedroni-53362061/

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website:

https://www.quaypress.uk

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk

https://www.vino.co.uk

https://www.quaypress.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Ep. 2723 Understanding Wine Hospitality in NYC with Yannick Benjamin | Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026 Jun 28, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to episode 2723 of the Italian Wine Podcast recorded live at Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026.

Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today, Stevie Kim’s guest is Yannick Benjamin.

Yannick is the co-founder of Contento Restaurant in East Harlem and Beaupierre Wines & Spirits in Hell's Kitchen. Beaupierre is a family business led by born-and-raised Hell's Kitchen natives of French origin. Yannick is also the co-founder of Wine on Wheels, a non-profit that supports the disability community in New York City.

Yannick shares his expectations, impressions, and experiences at Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, as well as offering insights and advice on selling Italian wine in the US market, the challenges and rewards of working in hospitality, and his relationship with wines from Piemonte.

About the Grandi Langhe:

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Ep. 2722 Ep.3: Bordeaux Left Bank | Study Smart for your WSET Level 3 Jun 27, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 2722 of the Italian Wine Podcast and Episode 3 of Study Smart with Gill Gordon Smith.

Ep. 3: Bordeaux Left Bank

With exam strategies and techniques also included, the "Study Smart" series is designed to help wine students achieve their learning objectives in an accessible and engaging way.

The series is delivered by the acclaimed wine educator Gill Gordon Smith.

Gill is a VIA certified Italian Wine Expert, an artisan wine producer, retailer, writer, judge and educator based between Australia's McLaren Vale Region and Verona and Tuscany in Italy.

Look out for new episodes every week wherever you get your podcasts!

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Ep. 2721 PIWI Grapes Explained: Innovation and Environmental Impact with Cristina Mercuri MW & Ekaterina Vislinskaya IWA | Clubhouse Ambassadors' Corner Jun 25, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Clubhouse’s Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2721 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Ekaterina Vislinskaya IWA interviews Cristina Mercuri MW, focusing on PIWI (fungus-resistant grape varieties).

The conversation explores the growing role of PIWI in modern viticulture, including the number and development of fungus-resistant varieties, their environmental benefits, and how they adapt to marginal climates. Cristina also discusses where hybrid grapes are gaining traction in Italy, how these varieties are developed and integrated into winemaking, and their key strengths and limitations.

Key Learning Objectives:

Understand the role and development of PIWI (fungus-resistant) grape varieties in viticulture.
Explore their environmental impact, including benefits for soil health and sustainability.
Analyze the opportunities and challenges of hybrids, including their strengths, weaknesses, and growing adoption in marginal climates.

*PIWI is a German acronym for pilzwiderstandsfähige (meaning "fungus-resistant") grape varieties.

More about today’s host:

Ekaterina Vislinskaya is a certified sommelier, wine blogger, and wine educator from Yekaterinburg, Russia. She holds WSET Level 3 certification and is an Italian Wine Ambassador (IWA) from Vinitaly International Academy. She contributes to the Italian Wine Podcast as a guest blogger and focuses on Italian wine, wine tourism, and viticulture, sharing insights with a global audience.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vislinskaya.wine?igsh=Z291bnNjemkwNjBw&utm_source=qr

More about today’s guest:

Cristina Mercuri MW is a Master of Wine, wine educator, and strategic consultant. She is the Founder and CEO of Mercuri Wine Club, where she works with wineries and organizations on brand development, communication, and education strategy.

Originally trained as an international lawyer, she transitioned into the wine industry after earning the WSET Diploma and multiple specialist certifications. She is Wine Editor for Forbes Italia, and from 2026 will serve as an international judge for Decanter. She is also Brand Ambassador for Mack & Schühle Italia. She also teaches across all levels, from enthusiasts to WSET Diploma candidates, and delivers corporate training in the hospitality and luxury sectors.

Connect:

Website: https://www.wine-club.it/academy/team/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-mercuri-mw-004376a/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cristinamercuri_wine/

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Ep. 2720 Ep. 21: L’Isola del Vino Selvatico | Pellegrinaggio Enoico con Attilio Scienza Jun 24, 2026

Show notes

Welcome to Episode 2720 of the Italian Wine Podcast and the 21st episode of Pellegrinaggio Enoico con Attilio Scienza! This series is recorded in Italian.

Episode 21: L’Isola del Vino Selvatico

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp