The Story of Wine Podcast - Discover the People & Stories Behind Every Glass
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The Story of Wine Podcast offers an insider's look into the world of wine and spirits through conversations with the people and producers shaping today's food and drink culture. From Master Sommeliers and Masters of Wine to acclaimed writers, winemakers, and growers behind some of the world's most celebrated bottles, host Billy Galanko brings you thoughtful stories and expert insights. Whether you're a passionate enthusiast or work in the industry, you'll enjoy learning more about the wines you love while gaining exclusive access to a wide range of voices and perspectives from across the wine world. Follow Billy on Instagram @ billygalanko_wine_nerd for special bottles and behind the scenes clips. For partnership inquiries or guest suggestions, email Billy at billy@sommeliermedia.com .
Nicolas Joly on Biodynamics, Terroir, and Living Wine
Billy Galanko is joined by Nicolas and Virginie Joly for a wide-ranging conversation on biodynamics, Chenin Blanc, and the future of authentic wine. From vineyard philosophy to winemaking choices, they share how great wines can convey energy, place, and a true sense of life. Key topics: Biodynamics and terroir Chenin Blanc and Savennières Vineyard philosophy and winemaking Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Relaunch Intro 01:06 New Format and Guests 04:39 Meet the Jolys 09:10 Biodynamics vs. Technology 18:46 Biodynamic Farming Principles 36:43 Wine as Living Medicine 39:24 Cellar Placement and Energy 44:09 Old Vines 47:17 Testing Life in the Bottle 57:57 Biodynamics: Real vs. Marketing The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Big News: Major Updates + What’s Coming Next
A quick update from host Billy Galanko on the future of the podcast. In this brief episode, Billy shares the news that he now has full ownership of the podcast and its archive, along with an important announcement about what’s coming next. The show will soon be rebranded, with updated artwork and a refreshed direction, as it transitions into its next chapter. He also previews an upcoming interview recorded before the holidays with biodynamic pioneer Nicolas Joly—an episode he’s been eager to release and one that features extended, uninterrupted insights from Joly himself. Thanks for sticking with the show through the transition. More to come soon. Cheers. 🍷 The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Unraveling Grape DNA with Dr. José Vouillamoz
Episode Description (Optimized for Apple & Spotify) Grape geneticist Dr. José Vouillamoz returns to the Vint Wine Podcast with host Billy Galanko for a deep dive into the DNA, history, and origins of iconic French and Swiss grapes. Co-author of Wine Grapes , José has spent decades decoding grape lineages and uncovering where the world’s most important varieties truly come from. In this episode, we spotlight his new book Les Grands Cépages , exploring 12 major French grapes, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to Savagnin and Viognier, while also revisiting Switzerland’s native gems like Chasselas, Cornalin, Arvine, and Räuschling. We also dig into how DNA tools have evolved, why “grape patriotism” often clashes with science, and how nearly-lost vines have shaped modern wine. If you’re curious about grape origins, terroir expression, or the genetic stories behind classic varieties, this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: What an ampelologist does and how José uses DNA, history, and vineyard archaeology to study grapevines How grape DNA research evolved from early markers to whole-genome sequencing The true family trees of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot, and others Why some regions fiercely claim “ownership” of certain grapes, and when the science disagrees How Swiss grapes like Chasselas, Cornalin, and Arvine express terroir and age in surprising ways Why Swiss wines are hard to find but can be outstanding value at the top end What’s next for José: ungrafted vines, ancient clonal material, and future books on Italy and beyond Episode Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:23 – Introducing Dr. José Vouillamoz 01:15 – French & Swiss Grapes Overview 03:50 – Inside the World of Grape DNA 08:59 – How DNA Techniques Have Evolved 14:08 – Switzerland’s Native Grapes 16:42 – The “Grand” French Grapes ( Les Grands Cépages ) 18:31 – Origins, Myths & Grape Stories 24:21 – Merlot’s Surprising Parentage 27:54 – Cabernet Franc’s Journey & Chenin/Sauvignon Origins 32:56 – Standout Swiss Varieties & Terroir 34:21 – Cornalin, Merlot Blanc & Chasselas 47:17 – Swiss Wines on the Global Stage 50:57 – Future Projects & Discoveries 54:12 – Conclusion and Farewell The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with José Vouillamoz, Grape DNA Expert
In this episode of Five Questions , host Billy Galanko sits down with Dr. José Vouillamoz , one of the world’s leading grape geneticists and co-author of Wine Grapes . José is internationally known for his pioneering work using DNA profiling to trace the origins of grape varieties, revive forgotten heritage vines, and help wineries plan for a climate-challenged future. Across five questions, José distills decades of research into an engaging look at where wine comes from, where it’s heading, and why grape diversity matters now more than ever. What You’ll Learn How José became a global authority on grape DNA and origins Why climate change and declining consumption threaten the wine world Two underrated wine regions: Switzerland & Armenia Why José pushes back on certain trends—natural wine flaws, no/low-alcohol wines, and the “denormalization” of wine His most meaningful recent wine experience and international recognition Episode Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:19 Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 Meet José Vouillamoz: A Leading Oenologist 00:51 The Role of an Oenologist 03:14 Challenges in the Wine Industry 04:38 Underrated Wine Regions 07:20 Controversial Wine Trends 10:12 Memorable Wine Experiences 11:02 Conclusion and Farewell The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Inside Canadian Wine with Master of Wine Geoffrey Moss
Quality is rising, challenges are mounting, and interest in Canadian wine has never been higher. In this episode, host Billy sits down with Okanagan-based Master of Wine Geoff Moss to explore the regions, grapes, and decisions shaping Canadian wine today. Geoff shares how he moved from political science into winemaking, how production experience informs his work in branding and DTC strategy , and why his négociant label Søren Wines serves as a live test case for the advice he gives wineries. We dig into the styles Canada does best, from Syrah and Cabernet Franc to Chardonnay and Riesling, and how recent extreme winter freezes (including 2024) are reshaping what gets planted in BC. We also look at the realities behind bulk wine logistics, export limitations, and the economic pressures facing premium Canadian producers in a soft global market. In this episode, you’ll learn How Geoff Moss MW built a career across production, branding, and direct-to-consumer work. Why the Okanagan is both diverse and climate-challenged, with styles ranging from cool-climate Pinot to warm-climate Syrah. How recent deep freezes devastated BC’s vineyards, particularly Syrah, and what growers are replanting now. Why Niagara shines with cool-climate Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling. How Søren Wines sources fruit from BC to Eola–Amity Hills and operates as Geoff’s “proof-of-concept” brand. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Meet Geoffrey Moss, MW 01:53 Canada’s Wine Landscape: Regions, Climate & Industry Insights 04:14 Geoffrey’s Path Into Wine & the Origins of Søren Wines 13:24 Production Realities: Logistics, Sourcing & Winemaking Challenges 16:11 Deep Dive into the Okanagan: Style, Diversity & Key Varieties 23:09 Evolution of Okanagan Wines: Merlot, Syrah & Climate Impacts 30:32 Market Dynamics: BC Exports, Ontario’s Cool-Climate Identity 35:18 Niagara’s Standout Grapes & Signature Styles 41:25 The Future of Canadian Wine 46:07 Final Thoughts The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Geoffrey Moss, MW
In this episode of Five Questions , host Billy Galanko sits down with Geoffrey Moss, MW, marketing strategist, DTC specialist, founder of Lithica Wine Marketing, and the mind behind his own wine label, Søren Wine, to explore the ideas shaping today’s wine industry. Geoffrey shares how he helps wineries grow direct-to-consumer channels, the climate challenges facing the Okanagan Valley, the surprising magic of Baja California wines, why “organic but not certified” claims drive him crazy, and a recent vineyard hike in the Douro that reshaped his perspective. As both a Master of Wine and a producer himself through Søren Wine, Geoffrey brings an insider’s view from both the business and cellar sides of the industry. What You’ll Learn How Geoffrey Moss approaches DTC sales, digital marketing, and wine club strategy The two biggest issues threatening the wine industry today Why the Okanagan and Baja California deserve more global attention The problem with “organic” claims, and what he wishes wineries would do instead What mouse taint is (and why he never wants to taste it again) How a hike through Portugal’s Douro Valley vineyards reshaped his understanding of the region A powerful recent wine experience that renewed his optimism Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast 00:19 – Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 – Meet Geoffrey Moss 00:53 – Geoffrey’s Role in the Wine Industry 01:28 – Key Issues in the Wine World 03:10 – Underrated Wine Regions 05:35 – Wine Trends Geoffrey Dislikes 09:02 – Memorable Wine Experiences 10:49 – Conclusion and Farewell The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW on The Wine Palate & the Future of Fine Wine
Master of Wine Lisa Perrotti-Brown returns to the Vint Wine Podcast with a new chapter in her career. Known for her influential tenure as Editor-in-Chief of The Wine Advocate and decades of reviewing top estates across Bordeaux, Napa, Australia, and New Zealand , Lisa has long blended deep technical expertise with approachable, consumer-focused insight. After co-founding The Wine Independent , she’s now launched TheWinePalate.com, a modern, data-driven platform built to personalize wine discovery. Her mission: make it easier for drinkers to find wines that truly match their preferences, with clarity, transparency, and far more than just a score. Before diving in, host Billy Galanko recaps a big wine week in Los Angeles, from a Wines of Hungary seminar with John Szabo MS to La Fête du Champagne with Peter Liem and some of Champagne’s most exciting growers and houses. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Lisa’s global wine journey shaped her approach to modern criticism Why traditional tasting notes and scores fall short for today’s drinkers How The Wine Palate’s Palate Matcher uses 25+ sensory and structural filters Why faults (brett, oxidation, smoke) should be searchable The importance of winery stories, vintage reports, and editorial context Lisa’s take on orange wines, climate change, and the evolution of “fine wine” Early thoughts on recent Napa and Bordeaux releases Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:23 Introducing Lisa Perrotti-Brown 01:02 Billy's Wine Adventures 01:58 Champagne Tasting Highlights 04:55 Lisa's Journey in the Wine Industry 07:09 The Wine Palate: A New Era in Wine Criticism 26:42 The Importance of Wine Filters 27:10 Meet the Wine Review Team 28:06 Exploring Orange Wines 30:14 The Role of Wine Critics 33:34 Vintage Reports and Editorials 38:13 The Future of Fine Wine 41:23 Wine Tasting Process Revealed 48:45 Recent Vintages in Bordeaux and Napa 50:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW
In this episode of Five Questions , host Billy Galanko sits down with one of the most influential and trusted voices in the modern wine world: Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, former Editor-in-Chief of Robert Parker Wine Advocate and founder of the newly launched TheWinePalate.com , a platform designed to help drinkers find wines that truly match their personal palate. In this quick, high-impact conversation, Lisa shares her perspective on the rapidly evolving wine landscape, why communication is the industry’s biggest challenge, the emerging regions drinkers should be paying attention to, and why stylistic “wine tribes” do more harm than good. She also discusses a sobering recent experience that underscored the challenges facing Bordeaux and the wider wine world. Whether you're a collector, a casual drinker, or wine-curious, this episode offers clarity, candor, and grounded insight from one of the industry’s most respected critics. What You’ll Learn How Lisa thinks about her role as a critic and consumer guide Why wine must evolve its communication tools to stay relevant in an AI-driven world The regions and subregions worth exploring next, from the West Sonoma Coast to Georgia Why she rejects wine “gatekeeping” and embraces stylistic diversity What the 2024 Bordeaux en primeur season revealed about the industry’s challenges Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast 00:19 Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 Interview with Lisa Perrotti-Brown 00:51 Lisa's Role in the Wine Industry 01:24 Current Issues in the Wine World 03:03 Underrated Wine Regions 04:29 Wine Trends Lisa Dislikes 05:36 Memorable Wine Experiences 07:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Discover Brunello di Montalcino & Il Poggione With Winemaker Alessandro Bindocci
Few wines capture Tuscany’s essence like Brunello di Montalcino , and few estates embody its heritage like Il Poggione . In this episode, winemaker Alessandro Bindocci joins Billy Galanko to explore what makes this corner of southern Tuscany one of the most fascinating wine regions on earth. From four generations of family stewardship to the estate’s modern sustainability drive, Alessandro takes us inside Il Poggione’s vineyards and cellars to reveal how classic Sangiovese becomes one of Italy’s most age-worthy wines. We unpack everything from clonal selection, elevation, and soil types to submerged-cap fermentation , large oak aging , and the fine line between structure and elegance that defines great Brunello. Billy also shares new updates on the future of the Vint Wine Podcast, including an upcoming rebrand, a dedicated website, and expanded YouTube content featuring winemakers, critics, and regions shaping today’s global wine culture. What you’ll learn How Il Poggione preserves a century-old Brunello identity while embracing organic certification and solar-powered sustainability. Why Montalcino’s Mount Amiata, Tyrrhenian breezes, and forest biodiversity are critical to balance and longevity. The impact of submerged-cap fermentation on tannin refinement and color depth. How large French oak casks (3,000–5,000 L) keep Sangiovese pure, while selective barrique aging adds finesse. Vintage takeaways: 2019 classic and firm, 2020 open-knit and supple, 2025 shaping up as a potential benchmark year. A tasting roadmap through Il Poggione’s range, from Rosato Toscana to the iconic BdM Riserva Vigna Paganelli . Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:55 Exciting Podcast Updates 02:04 Meet Alessandro Bindocci of Il Poggione 02:42 Exploring Il Poggione’s Wine Range 08:16 A Family Legacy in Winemaking 13:40 The Unique Terroir of Montalcino 19:57 Organic and Sustainable Practices 25:22 Innovation and Winemaking Philosophy 27:57 Submerged-Cap Fermentation Explained 30:22 The Role of Oak in Aging 32:40 Indigenous Yeast and Fermentation 33:56 Vintage Deep Dive: 2019, 2020, and 2025 41:11 Rosso vs. Toscana — Two Expressions of Sangiovese 47:42 The Evolution and Future of Il Poggione 50:42 Closing Thoughts and Cheers The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Il Poggione's Head Winemaker Alessandro Bindocci
In this episode of Five Questions , Billy sits down with Alessandro Bindocci , winemaker at Il Poggione, one of Montalcino’s founding estates and a benchmark producer of Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino. From the estate’s roots as a working Tuscan farm to its massage-selection Sangiovese vineyards, Alessandro shares how Il Poggione balances deep tradition with innovation in the cellar. He discusses the influence of Barolo on his winemaking, the adoption of submerged-cap fermentation, the vintages that shaped his career, and Il Poggione’s ongoing organic efforts. 🔑 Episode Highlights The history and philosophy of Il Poggione Sangiovese and the terroir of southern Montalcino Lessons from Barolo and the submerged-cap technique Memorable vintages: 1955, 2006, and 2010 The future of Il Poggione: sustainability and organic farming 🕒 Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast 00:19 Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 Meet Alessandro Bindocci 00:54 Vineyards and Varieties 01:41 About Il Poggione Winery 02:31 Inspirations and Techniques 04:03 Memorable Vintages 05:08 The Road Ahead for Il Poggione 05:48 Closing The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Volcanic Wines 101 With Master Sommelier John Szabo
Episode Description (Apple & Spotify) Volcanic wines are among the most distinctive on earth, and no one unpacks their character quite like John Szabo, MS. Author of Volcanic Wines: Salt, Grit and Power , critic at WineAlign, and long-time explorer of lava-born terroirs, John covers what makes a wine “volcanic,” why these bottles often taste more savory and saline than fruity, how regions like Santorini, Etna, Washington, Oregon, Lake County, Moon Mountain , and Tokaj fit into the picture, and where to hunt for compelling bottles now. We also discuss Santorini’s drought/over-tourism pressure, a new Volcanic Origin certification, and the rise of dry Furmint from Hungary. 🔑 Key Topics & Takeaways Volcanic Wines 101: what counts, where to find them, and common sensory markers (think savory, mineral-tinged, often salty). Santorini now: drought, tourism pressure, sky-high grape costs, and irrigation/desalination plans. Certification: how a new Volcanic Origin seal verifies geology (authenticity, not quality). Hungary beyond Tokaj sweet wines: stellar dry Furmint/Hárslevelű , plus surprising reds on extinct volcanic hills near Lake Balaton . US hotspots: Columbia River Basalts (WA), Dundee Hills/Jory (OR), Lake County, Moon Mountain & hill zones of Napa/Sonoma, plus Sierra Foothills. Tasting through lines: volcanic sites often push wines toward a peppery, stony, botanical, saline profile versus overt fruit. ⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:19 - Meet John Szabo: Volcanic Wine Expert 01:22 - The Rise of Volcanic Wines 09:35 - Challenges in Volcanic Wine Regions 13:56 - Volcanic Wine Characteristics and Certification 24:12 - Exploring Hungary's Volcanic Wines 25:24 - The Rise of Dry Hungarian Wines 30:34 - Volcanic Wine Awards and Global Interest 33:09 - Volcanic Wines in the US 40:04 - Volcanic Wine Regions Around the World 🗺️ Mentioned Book: Volcanic Wines: Salt, Grit and Power by John Szabo, MS (print returning; digital edition planned) The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
UPDATED: 5 Questions with John Szabo, Volcanic Wine Expert & Wine Writer
In this episode of Five Questions , Billy sits down with John Szabo, Master Sommelier, author, and volcanic wine expert , to discuss his journey from restaurant kitchens to becoming one of Canada’s most respected wine writers and educators. John shares insights from his decades exploring global wine culture, from his work co-founding Volcanic Wines International to his advocacy for sustainability and regenerative farming. He highlights the rise of Canadian wines , the rediscovery of Hungary’s historic regions , and the enduring fascination with volcanic terroirs . John also challenges the “clean wine” marketing trend and shares a powerful story from Italy’s volcanic heartland. 🔑 Episode Highlights John’s path from chef to Master Sommelier and wine writer The origins and mission of Volcanic Wines International Why climate change and regenerative agriculture define fine wine’s future Canada and Hungary’s most exciting regions and grape varieties The myth of “clean wine” and the importance of authenticity Life, risk, and beauty in Campania’s volcanic vineyards ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast 00:19 Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 Meet John Szabo 00:51 John’s Journey in the Wine Industry 01:49 Volcanic Wine Expertise 02:43 Climate Change and Sustainability in Wine 04:23 Canadian and Hungarian Wine Regions 08:52 The Clean Wine Movement Debate 10:49 Volcanic Wines and Human Cost 13:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
The Hidden World of Cork with Jochen Michalski - Tradition, Innovation and the Future of Closures
Cork Supply founder & CEO Jochen Michalski joins Billy Galanko to unpack 40+ years of cork innovation, how the industry tackled TCA (cork taint) , why oxygen transmission matters, and when to choose natural , technical , synthetic , or screwcap . Jochen explains Legacy (Cork Supply’s premium natural cork) and its X100 imaging, AI-assisted electromagnetic scanning that screens individual corks for TCA and internal structural risks to reduce bottle-to-bottle variation. We also dig into manufacturing, QC, climate impacts on cork forests, and why consumers still equate cork with quality. What you’ll learn How TCA went from industry crisis to near-zero—and what “1 ppt” really means. Natural vs. technical corks: ideal use-cases and aging implications. Why oxygen control is central to wine development and consistency. How X100 imaging + sensory panels power Legacy’s screening. How bottle neck shapes, cork length, and bottling lines affect sealing. Forestry, climate, and the future of sustainable cork. Timestamps (Optimized) 00:00 Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:23 Introducing Jochen Michalski and Cork Supply 05:31 Jochen’s Early Life and Career 07:43 Starting Cork Supply in California 13:28 Challenges and Successes in the Cork Industry 25:02 Innovations and the Future of Cork 26:54 Screening Corks for TCA 27:40 Sensory Analysis vs. Technology 29:13 Electromagnetic Imaging and AI 32:18 Legacy Cork and Market Trends 34:21 Technical Corks and Market Shifts 38:21 Impact of Climate Change on Cork Forests 40:01 Innovations in Cork Harvesting 41:15 Global Market Dynamics 43:10 Consumer Perception and Cork Quality 49:03 Future Prospects and New Markets The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Jochen Michalski - Founder & CEO of Cork Supply
In this episode of Five Questions , Billy sits down with Jochen Michalski , Founder and CEO of Cork Supply , one of the world’s leading suppliers of premium natural corks, barrels, and closures to wineries around the globe. From founding the company in California in 1981 to expanding across Europe, Australia, and South Africa, Jochen shares insights from over four decades at the intersection of craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation. He discusses the future of cork, the challenge of declining wine consumption, and why he believes de-alcoholized wines miss the mark, plus, a memorable (and very expensive) wine experience in the Maldives. 🔑 Episode Highlights The founding and global growth of Cork Supply Sustainability and the remarkable life cycle of natural cork The biggest issue facing the wine industry today: consumption Why Jochen isn’t convinced by de-alcoholized wines A surprising $2,500 wine story from the Maldives ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 — Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast 00:19 — Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 — Interview with Jochen Michalski Begins 00:52 — Jochen’s Role in the Wine Industry 02:08 — Biggest Issue Facing the Wine World 03:15 — The Truth About Natural Corks 04:38 — Dislike for De-Alcoholized Wines 05:53 — A Memorable Wine Experience 08:20 — Conclusion and Thanks The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Champagne with Peter Liem: Dosage, Terroir, Climate, and La Fête du Champagne
Renowned Champagne expert Peter Liem returns to the Vint Wine Podcast for a deep dive into the evolution of Champagne, its changing climate, the role of dosage and lees aging, and what defines true quality today. Peter shares decades of insight from living and tasting in Champagne, exploring how styles, vintages, and viticulture have evolved in real time. Along the way, he also offers a glimpse into La Fête du Champagne 2025 , the US-based celebration of the world’s finest Champagne producers. Episode Highlights What makes La Fête du Champagne unique: invitation-only lineup curated across top houses and growers , plus seminars, focused lunches/dinners, and a grand tasting Dosage decoded: how great wines are properly dosed (like seasoning), not under- or over-dosed 2018 as inflection point: ripeness, acidity, and lees time in a warming climate; why some wines may need shorter sur-lie but still benefit from post-disgorgement aging Recent vintages: strengths of 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2019 ; how consistency has improved and “bad vintages” are rarer Aged picks: why 2002 (well-stored), 2004 , and 2008 still thrill; storage matters La Fete's Education + conviviality: how tastings, verticals, and producer-led sessions raise the conversation beyond “Champagne 101” The point isn’t grower vs. house, it's quality and terroir expression Resources & Links Peter’s site: www.champagneguide.net/ La Fête du Champagne: lafeteduchampagne.com Chicago: October 17–18 New York City: October 22–25 Los Angeles: November 13–15 Timestamps 00:00 Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:23 Introducing Champagne Expert Peter Liem 00:49 Peter’s Background and Work in Champagne 01:19 La Fête du Champagne Overview and Concept 02:23 Upcoming 2025 Events in Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles 04:08 How Champagne Has Evolved Over the Past Two Decades 09:41 Understanding Dosage and Balance in Champagne 16:41 The Origins and Growth of La Fête du Champagne 22:42 How La Fête Celebrates Both Houses and Growers 23:16 Expanding to New York and Los Angeles in 2025 24:31 Highlights and Tastings at the New York Event 25:38 Key Producers and Dinners at the Los Angeles Edition 26:31 Educational Seminars and “Soil to Sip” Workshops 28:14 Rising Curiosity and Knowledge Among Champagne Drinkers 33:25 How Climate Change Is Reshaping Champagne’s Style 41:55 Recent and Aged Vintages to Seek Out Now Follow & Support If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe , rate , and share with your Champagne-loving friends. The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Acclaimed Champagne Expert Peter Liem
In this episode of Five Questions , Billy speaks with Peter Liem , James Beard Award-winning writer and one of the world’s foremost Champagne experts. Peter discusses how climate change is reshaping the region, the rise of new subregions, his balanced take on natural wine, and even shares details from a remarkable deep-sea dive to recover 19th-century Champagne. Episode highlights: • The biggest issue facing the wine world today • How warming temperatures are changing Champagne • Emerging subregions to watch beyond the Côte des Bar • Peter’s honest perspective on natural wine and craftsmanship • Standout vintages from 2002 to 2019 • Diving in the Baltic Sea to recover historic Champagne • Inside look at La Fête du Champagne 2025 in Chicago, NYC, and LA Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast 00:19 Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 Meet Peter Liem 00:51 Peter's Role in the Wine Industry 01:08 Challenges in the Wine World 01:53 Subregions in Champagne 02:43 Wine Trends and Opinions 03:42 Memorable Vintages 04:30 Bonus Questions 05:38 Special Champagne Events 06:25 Conclusion The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Purity & Place: Abbott Claim’s Alban Debeaulieu on Crafting Modern Oregon Classics
Winemaker Alban Debeaulieu of Abbott Claim joins Billy to share how a historic 1855 Oregon land claim became one of the Willamette Valley’s most distinctive estates. Alban details his path from France’s Rhône Valley and Burgundy to Oregon, the marine-sandstone soils of Yamhill-Carlton, and how his team farms organically and ages wines 18 months on gross lees for depth and longevity. He explains his low-intervention philosophy, whole-cluster choices, and why Oregon deserves its own identity apart from Burgundy. The episode also explores Oregon Chardonnay’s rise and the vintage challenges shaping the region today. Key Topics • Origins of Abbott Claim and its 1855 land deed • Yamhill-Carlton marine-sandstone terroir • Organic and biodynamic-inspired farming • Gross-lees aging and its impact on texture • Whole-cluster fermentation philosophy • Oregon Chardonnay and regional evolution Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:23 Meet Alban W: Winemaker from Willamette Valley 01:07 The Story of Abbott Claim Vineyard 06:35 Alban’s Journey in the Wine Industry 11:50 Exploring the Unique Terroir of Abbott Claim 29:57 Challenges of Erosion and Soil Management 30:35 Viticulture Practices and Whole Cluster Usage 33:50 Oregon Growing Season and Climate Impact 37:03 Organic and Biodynamic Farming Techniques 46:11 Oregon Chardonnay and Winemaking Philosophy The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Alban Debeaulieu of Abbott Claim, Willamette Valley, OR
In this episode, host Billy Galanko talks with Alban Debeaulieu , head winemaker at Abbott Claim , about crafting site-driven Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Oregon’s Yamhill-Carlton and Eola-Amity Hills AVAs. Alban shares how his Burgundian training informs his approach to expressing terroir, why 2019 and 2024 stand out as benchmark vintages, and what early signs suggest about the 2025 growing season . He also previews new high-elevation plantings and multi-clone field blends at Lily Springs, designed to deepen the estate’s expression of place, and invites listeners to experience the cellar-side tastings that define Abbott Claim’s understated authenticity. Key Topics The terroir and vineyard history of Abbott Claim in Yamhill-Carlton Expansion to Eola-Amity Hills and the Lily Springs project How Burgundian philosophy shapes Oregon winemaking Why 2019 and 2024 are standout Oregon vintages Early outlook on the 2025 growing season High-elevation, multi-clone Pinot Noir and Chardonnay plantings Visiting Abbott Claim: tastings by appointment in the cellar Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast 00:19 Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 Meet Ban Dibel of Abbott Claim 00:55 Abbott Claim Vineyards and Varieties 01:19 Unique Wines of Abbott Claim 02:07 Inspiration from Other Wine Regions 02:39 Memorable Vintages 03:31 2025 Growing Season Insights 04:47 Future Plans for Abbott Claim 05:55 Visiting Abbott Claim 06:24 Conclusion The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
How Geology Shapes Wine: A Conversation with Terroir Specialist Brenna Quigley
In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast , host Billy Galanko sits down with Brenna Quigley , geologist and terroir specialist, to explore how what lies beneath the vines shapes what’s in your glass. Brenna shares her path from UC Santa Barbara to working with mentors like Raj Parr and Seth Kunin , and with producers such as Quintessa , Flowers , and Hirsch . She explains how geology helps wineries understand vineyard character, canopy choices, and grape health. Together they discuss what terroir really means, the ongoing debate around “minerality,” and how soil chemistry, pH, and rock type, from limestone to volcanic, affect the style and texture of wine. Key Topics: • How geology shapes terroir, vine health, and flavor across regions • Minerality vs. salinity and why these terms are often misunderstood • Limestone, clay, granite, and volcanic soils and their impact on wine structure and acidity • Vineyard mapping, soil pits, and auger cores in guiding farming and blending decisions Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Vent Wine Podcast 00:23 Meet Brenna Quigley: Geologist and Terroir Specialist 04:12 Starting the Interview with Brenna Quigley 04:45 Brenna's Early Career and Experiences 13:13 Current Vineyard Projects and Techniques 27:29 Comparing Limestone and Diatomaceous Earth 28:10 Geologic Analogies and Misconceptions 28:39 Differences Between Chalk and Limestone 33:31 Understanding Minerality in Wine 37:32 Volcanic Wines and Minerality 40:02 Adapting Vineyards to Soil Types 44:21 Geologic Mapping in Monterey County 45:56 Soil Differences in Wine Regions 48:59 Exciting Vineyard Projects and Podcast The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
Five Questions with Geology & Terroir Specialist Brenna Quigley
In this episode of Five Questions , host Billy Galanko sits down with Brenna Quigley , terroir specialist and host of Roadside Terroir . Brenna brings a unique perspective to the wine world, mapping vineyards through geology, soils, and climate, and connecting those details to the deeper story of wine. In this conversation, she shares her thoughts on farming, natural wine, overlooked California regions, and a personal story that brought her back to the heart of why wine matters. Key Topics: Brenna’s role as a terroir specialist and her work with Roadside Terroir Why farming is the most important issue facing the wine world today The untapped potential of Monterey County and San Luis Obispo’s Slow Coast Thoughts on natural wine and holding quality to a high standard A powerful wine moment after becoming a mother—and the bottle that reconnected her to wine Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast 00:19 – Welcome to Five Questions 00:44 – Meet Brenna Quigley 00:52 – Role in the Wine Industry 01:17 – Most Important Issue in Wine 02:12 – Underrated Wine Regions 02:50 – Disliked Wine Trends 03:33 – Memorable Wine Experience 05:21 – Conclusion The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!
