In this episode, we unravel the beginnings of ASC Fine Wines, with Don St Pierre Jr, a catalyst that reshaped China's wine market in 1996. Back then, the wine scene was ripe with possibilities, yet uncharted territory, and consumer preferences were just beginning to awaken to the allure of fine wines. From overcoming formidable obstacles to navigating the intricacies of conducting business in China, ASC and Don St Pierre Jr left an enduring legacy that continues to shape the industry today.  Today, we explore ASC's beginnings in 1996, the challenges they faced while introducing fine wines ..read more

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Yiannis Karakasis, a renowned Master of Wine based in Athens, Greece. With his expertise and passion for Greek wines, Yiannis has been instrumental in introducing the world to the hidden treasures of this ancient winemaking region. In our conversation, we delve into his journey and what makes Greek wines so unique and worth exploring. We also discuss his latest ebook, "Greek Wine Explained," and the valuable insights it offers to readers. Yiannis takes us behind the scenes of the 50 Great Greek Wines Awards and shares a sneak peek of some win ..read more

In our latest podcast episode, we embark on a journey to unravel the ever-evolving world of China's wine market. With an eye toward 2024, we explore the challenging landscape awaiting the wine industry. Joining us is Natalie Wang, Chief Editor of Vino Joy News ─ the ultimate source for insights into China's wine industry. Natalie's expertise will guide us through the intricate layers of this dynamic market that went from boom to slide.  Today we sit down to examine China's current economic landscape and forecast the evolving transformations that lie ahead for the wine industry in the next ..read more

Introducing Mark Wong: Mark Wong is a visionary entrepreneur who took the beverage industry by storm. Less than 6 months after creating Impossibrew, he found himself on the hit TV show "Dragons' Den," where he faced the ultimate test of his business acumen. In this episode, Mark takes us through that experience and shares the valuable lessons he learned along the way. During our conversation, Mark reveals the fascinating science behind Impossibrew's beers, which offer a one or two-pint feeling without the presence of alcohol. We explore the nootropic herbs used in their products for relaxation ..read more

Professor Charles Spence is a world-renowned experimental psychologist specializing in neuroscience-inspired multisensory design. Spence has published over 1,000 academic articles and authored various best-sellers, including “The Perfect Meal” and “Gastrophysics: The New Science of Eating.” Sensehacking, his newest book, was published in 2021. In addition to being an award-winning author, Spence established and runs the Crossmodal Research Laboratory (CRL) at the Oxford University Department of Experimental Psychology. Professor Spence collaborates with baristas, mixologists, chocolatiers, che ..read more

On today’s episode we embark on a journey that sheds light on Asia’s most misunderstood berry and discuss how it’s making a hot comeback.  We sit down with Yao Zhao, Founder of 50 Hertz Tingly Foods to discuss all things Sichuan peppers. In this interview, we delve into the scientific intricacies behind Sichuan pepper’s iconic mala (麻辣) or numbing flavour.  Together, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of Sichuan peppers, tracing their origins in ancient medicinal practices and their epic odyssey along the legendary Silk Road.  But that's not all—our exploration extends to the ..read more

In today’s podcast we’ll be uncorking the secrets of unconventional pairings with Vanessa Price,  resident sommelier for The TODAY Show, and the brilliant mind behind the best-selling book, "Big Macs and Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World."  Vanessa has spent nearly two decades honing her craft and immersing herself in the wine industry. Her expertise has been recognized by prestigious publications like New York Magazine and Vogue, where she has written and been featured. But Vanessa's passion extends beyond the written word and into the realm of fine dining. As the Wine Dire ..read more

Today we discuss the advancements of nanotechnology in the wine industry with Dr Sachinadri Rana.  Nanotechnology is a branch of technology that focuses on producing, designing, and using objects or systems by manipulating atoms and molecules at nanoscale. In today’s podcast episode, we are thrilled to provide more insight into the wine production process with Dr Sachinadri Rana, Ph.D., an expert Wine Researcher at the Bragato Research Institute. With ten years of experience in the wine industry and a doctorate in biotechnology, Dr Sachi’s acute understanding of nanotechnology in grape gr ..read more

In 2023, Raimonds Tomsons was crowned The Best Sommelier of the World and also Best Sommelier of Europe 2017 by the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (A.S.I). Throughout this fascinating conversation, we go deep into Raimonds story, including his origins at the renowned Vincents restaurant, his journey in wine as well as the trial and tribulations to reach the pinnacle of his profession. Today, this very special guest details the many powerful lessons he has learned during his unforgettable journey of passion, triumph, and dedication. We further discuss the world’s leading Sommelier ..read more

In this jam-packed episode, we talk with Stefan about his journey through the Michelin-starred ranks like Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison by Raymond Blanc and The Fat Duck and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, where he achieved his MS designation in 2017. We then discuss his new online course, tips on blind tasting, whether “supertasters” exist, which varietals or regions get easily mixed up during MS studying, and more. If you’re looking to become more knowledgeable about anything and everything wine, Stefan Neumann, MS, is a wonderful resource. “Master Sommelier” is a moniker saved for the most expert ..read more