To download the transcript CLICK HERE   In this really fun episode (or at least it was for me to record) we are going to dig deeper into the rich tapestry of Spain's indigenous white grape varieties. After a request for an episode on the white grapes of Spain, followed by Decanter magazine's February edition, spotlighting Spain's vibrant wine scene, I explore the nuances of some of Spain’s most interesting native whites, curated from their top scoring whites featured in the publication.   With over a hundred native grape varieties, this episode is zoning in on the lesser-known gems o ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   In todays’ episode, join me as I chat with Justin Howard-Sneyd, a distinguished Master of Wine, wine consultant, and owner of the Domaine of the Bee winery in Roussillon. More importantly, Justin is a trustee of the Regenerative Viticulture Foundation, where he's been leading two-day courses in regenerative viticulture across the UK for the past two years.   Justin walks us through the essentials of regenerative farming, distinguishing it from organic practices and biodynamics. We'll explore the certification process in this field and dive into ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Welcome back to part two with Beatrice Bessi, our dedicated head sommelier. Beatrice's passion for wine shines through in every word, making her journey a delight to follow. In this episode, we delve into her experience with the Court of Master Sommelier exams, her recent Australian adventures, and her fascination with old vines. But our main focus is on the two Italian wine regions: Alto Adige and Trentino.   Picture snow-capped peaks and charming landscapes—Alto Adige sits at the crossroads of Austria and Switzerland, boasting a predominantly ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE On today’s episode join us as we sit down with Beatrice Bessi, an accomplished CMS advanced sommelier and head sommelier at London's prestigious Chiltern Firehouse. With two decades of hospitality expertise and accolades including the International Wine and Spirits Competition's Emerging Talent in Wine Hospitality Award, Beatrice shares her journey from Grands Jours de Bourgogne to the exclusive 67 Pall Mall private members club for wine lovers. Today we journey into the delights of Sicilian wine, exploring native grapes like Nerello Mascalese and Nero d ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Welcome back! Today we journey into the Southern Rhône Valley to explore one specific cru that deserves your attention: Lirac. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems beyond the typical Côtes du Rhône, discovering the value and sustainability behind these well-priced wines. Our guest, Rodolphe de Pins, winemaker and head of Château de Montfaucon, has played a huge part in elevating the reputation of the Lirac region. He shares his journey in revitalizing his family's winery alongside breaking down the distinctive style of wines from this Cru, highligh ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   In part 2 of this episode, we're diving deep into the world of drinks writing, specifically exploring Rob's experiences as a drinks writer for the Metro. Ever wondered what it's like to have that coveted gig? Well, wonder no more as Rob spills the beans.   But that's not all – alongside sharing some of his latest wine discoveries, we'll also be delving into Rob's intriguing book, "The Alcorithm." This fascinating read delves into the intricate flavors and compounds found in wines, beverages, foods, and herbs, offering insights into predicting y ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE Today, we are embarking on a journey to Catalonia, Spain, guided by none other than Rob Buckhaven. You might recognize Rob as the Drinks Columnist for The Metro and author of 'The Alcorithm.' But in this episode, we're delving into his past as a brand ambassador for the renowned winery Torres. Torres boasts a strong presence in Catalonia, particularly in regions like Conca de Barbera, Costes del Segre, Cava, and Priorat. Join us as we explore these wine regions, discussing new regulations and labeling terms within Cava and Priorat, and Torres' focus on rev ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE In today's episode, I have more than your average wine story. I will be talking all about Super Tuscans: An Italian wine category created from rebellion and innovation when a group of daring winemakers decided to break all the rules, planting French grapes in Italian soil. In the 1980s, these wines took the wine world by storm and they still are some of the most highly desirable wines in today's wine scene. So, by the end of this episode, you will know the history behind this wine style, the key players and the desirable wines, but also I will be talking a ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   In today's episode, we continue our adventure into the region of Southern Rhône with Stage two Master of Wine student, Anna Spooner, who has immersed herself in Southern Rhône living.   This episode zeroes in on the intricacies of Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages, and the Crus—unraveling the mysteries behind these classifications. Our spotlight falls on the renowned Cru, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, as we draw comparisons to Gigondas. Exploring the intriguing Ventoux region, a rising star in the Southern Rhône, becomes a focal point of our discu ..read more

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   On todays’ episode, we sit down with Stage 2 Master of Wine student, Anna Spooner, who has recently made the move to the Southern Rhône. In this episode, our focus shifts to the grape varieties that thrive in this region, with Châteauneuf-du-Pape boasting a remarkable 13 permitted varieties. While Grenache is a familiar name, ever heard of Counoise or Terret Noir?   But before we chat about the details of these lesser-known grapes, the first half of the episode is dedicated to exploring Anna's wine journey. From her experiences at Freixenet, on ..read more