Wine Guide with Cork & Fizz - Wine education for beginners and enthusiasts

Ep 178 Starting a wine collection might sound like something reserved for serious collectors with expensive bottles and a fancy cellar, but it can actually start with just one bottle. In this episode, Paul Zitarelli, owner and editor-in-chief of Full Pull Wines and author of 36 Bottles of Wine , breaks down how to start a wine collection as a beginner and why right now is an especially interesting time to do it. Fun fact: 36 Bottles of Wine was actually one of the books I read when I was first learning about wine, long before I realized I would one day be sitting down with Paul for this conversation. Paul explains what actually counts as collecting wine, which wines can be good options to age, and why you do not need a dedicated wine cellar or even a wine fridge to get started. You’ll also learn how temperature affects wine as it ages, why collecting wine is better viewed as a way to enjoy wine rather than a financial investment, and how to figure out whether you actually enjoy the taste of aged wine. Plus, Paul shares one of the biggest mistakes new collectors make and why starting small can help you build a collection you will actually want to drink. Whether you already have a few bottles tucked away for later or you have never considered aging a bottle before, this episode will help you start a wine collection based on what you enjoy and how you actually drink wine. This is part one of my conversation with Paul from Full Pull Wines Connect with Paul: Website: https://fullpullwines.com/ Author of 36 Bottles of Wine: Less Is More with 3 Recommended Wines per Month Episode Highlights: Why right now is a great time to start collecting wine What actually counts as a wine collection How to start collecting with just one bottle Beginner-friendly wines to consider aging How to store wine without a dedicated cellar Why temperature consistency matters Wine collecting versus wine investing How to discover whether you enjoy aged wine The biggest mistakes new wine collectors make Why you should start small and build slowly What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 177 Love Cabernet Sauvignon but want to try something different? I have six wines for you to add to your shopping list. Cabernet Sauvignon is popular for a reason. It's bold, full of dark fruit, and can have those delicious flavors of chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and even a little green pepper. But it can also get expensive, and sometimes you just want to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. In this episode, I’m sharing six wines that have some of the things you already love about Cabernet Sauvignon while bringing something different to your glass. There's Mourvèdre, which I like to think of as the moodier, emo version of Cabernet, Nero d'Avola if you want something a little lighter and brighter, aged Rioja if you love those smooth oak flavors, and a few more you may not have tried before. So if Cabernet Sauvignon is usually the bottle you reach for, but you're ready to branch out, grab this list and see which one sounds like your next wine to try. Thank you to Full Pull Wines for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.fullpullwines.com to sign up for their FREE mailing list and start discovering delicious wines at ridiculously low prices! Episode Highlights: Why Cabernet Sauvignon can be hit or miss Mourvèdre and Monastrell as a moodier Cabernet alternative Nero d'Avola for a lighter, brighter red Discovering Portugal's Touriga Nacional Why aged Rioja can be an alternative to aged Cabernet What makes Tannat so intensely tannic Carmenère's unique history in Chile How to choose your next red based on what you love about Cabernet What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 176 You see 90, 92, or 95 points on a bottle of wine, but what do those wine scores actually mean and should they influence what you buy? Wine scores can make choosing a bottle feel easier, but there’s a lot more behind those numbers than you might realize. In this episode, we’re digging into where wine rating systems came from, how Robert Parker’s 100-point scale became the industry standard, and why a wine rated in the 80s can still be considered very good even though you rarely see those scores advertised. You’ll also learn how major wine critics approach scoring differently, why some wines are tasted blind while others aren’t, and why the same wine may not receive the same score every time. Plus, we’ll look at score inflation, Parkerization, and how the pursuit of higher ratings may have influenced the way some wines are made. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of what wine scores can tell you, what they can’t, and how to decide whether they deserve a place in the way you choose your next bottle. Thank you to Full Pull Wines for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.fullpullwines.com to sign up for their FREE mailing list and start discovering delicious wines at ridiculously low prices! Episode Highlights: What wine scores actually mean How the 100-point wine scoring system began Why you rarely see wine scores below 90 advertised How major wine critics score wines differently Blind tasting versus knowing what’s in the glass Why wine scores may not be as objective as they seem How high scores can influence winemaking Whether wine scores should influence what you buy What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 175 Carbonic maceration might sound complicated, but the wines it creates can be anything but. In part two of this conversation with Sage Rat Wine owner and winemaker Dusty Jenkins, we dig into the process behind his Carbonic Nebbiolo and why he uses carbonic maceration across several of his wines to create the fresh, fruit-forward, lighter style he loves. Dusty also shares why keeping wine approachable goes beyond what’s in the bottle. From the beginning, he has intentionally kept his wines in the $20 to $30 range so more people can enjoy small-production Washington wine. We also talk about why bigger isn’t always better when it comes to running a winery, what’s next for Sage Rat, and the wines Dusty reaches for when he’s drinking with friends. Plus, he shares why he thinks wine drinkers should look beyond mass-produced grocery store bottles and give more small producers a try. If you’re curious about carbonic maceration and want to discover approachable wines from smaller producers, this episode will give you plenty of reasons to rethink what great wine can look like and cost. Don't miss part one of my conversation with Dusty! Thank you to Full Pull Wines for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.fullpullwines.com to sign up for their FREE mailing list and start discovering delicious wines at ridiculously low prices! Connect with Dusty: Website: https://www.sageratwine.com/ Resources: Carbonic Maceration Explained Simply: https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-164 Episode Highlights: How carbonic maceration works Creating fresh, fruit-forward wines The story behind the Carbonic Nebbiolo Keeping small-production wine affordable Why bigger isn’t always better for a winery What’s next for Sage Rat Wine Why Dusty encourages buying from small wine producers What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 174 Washington wine may be known for its big, bold reds, but Yakima Valley has a much more unexpected side. Winemaker Dusty Jenkins is embracing that side through Sage Rat Wine, where he creates fresh, approachable wines that offer a different perspective on what Washington wine can be. After leaving a career in film and moving to Walla Walla to study winemaking, Dusty eventually found his way back to the Yakima Valley, where the freedom to do things a little differently became the perfect fit for the wines he wanted to make. In this episode, Dusty shares how winning half a ton of grapes unexpectedly led to the creation of Sage Rat, where the unusual name came from, and why he sees Yakima Valley as an underdog in Washington wine. We also get into the diversity of grapes grown throughout the region, his "ready for anything" approach to wine, what sustainability means at Sage Rat, and the three wines he recommends trying for a taste of what he's creating. If your idea of Washington wine starts and ends with big reds, this episode will introduce you to a different side of what the state can produce. Thank you to Full Pull Wines for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.fullpullwines.com to sign up for their FREE mailing list and start discovering delicious wines at ridiculously low prices! Connect with Dusty: Website: https://www.sageratwine.com/ Episode Highlights: Dusty's unexpected path from film to wine The harvest that changed his approach to winemaking How winning half a ton of grapes started Sage Rat The story behind the Sage Rat name Dusty's "ready for anything" wine philosophy Why Yakima Valley is a wine underdog The diversity of grapes grown in Yakima Valley Making lighter, fresher Washington wines What sustainable winemaking means at Sage Rat Three Sage Rat wines to try What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 173 Wine tasting is supposed to be fun, but it can feel intimidating when you’re not sure what you’re actually supposed to do. Do you need a reservation? Are you expected to buy a bottle? Should you tip? And what happens if you don’t like one of the wines? In this episode, I’m answering the practical questions that can make visiting a tasting room feel more complicated than it needs to be. You’ll learn what to expect before you arrive, including what to wear, how much a tasting might cost, whether you can bring kids or dogs, and how many wineries you should realistically visit in one day. I’m also getting into some of the wine tasting etiquette questions you might be hesitant to ask. Find out how to politely turn down a wine club, why it’s totally okay to spit or dump your wine, whether you can ask for a second pour, and what to say when a wine just isn’t to your taste. And if you’re worried that you don’t know enough about wine to visit a tasting room, don’t be. You don’t need fancy wine vocabulary or years of wine knowledge to have a great tasting experience. Come curious, ask questions, and use these tips to feel more comfortable and confident the next time you go wine tasting. Thank you to Full Pull Wines for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.fullpullwines.com to sign up for their FREE mailing list and start discovering delicious wines at ridiculously low prices! Resources: The Real Impact Wine Lovers Can Make w/ Heather Daenitz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-151 Episode Highlights: When to make a wine tasting reservation What to wear to a winery Wine tasting costs and tipping etiquette How many wineries to visit in one day Whether you’re expected to buy wine How to politely decline a wine club When to spit or dump your wine What to do when you don’t like a wine Asking for a second pour Wine tasting when you’re a beginner Questions to ask at a tasting room What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 172 Some of the best wines on the shelf are the ones most people overlook. It's easy to fall into the habit of reaching for the same familiar bottles, but there are so many incredible wines that don't get nearly the attention they deserve. In this episode, I’m sharing underrated wines that offer great flavor, plenty of personality, and often a great value simply because they aren't the names everyone already knows. From crisp, salty Muscadet and sparkling red Lambrusco to Chenin Blanc, dry Riesling, Austrian reds, Greek varieties, and Portuguese wines, you'll discover what each one tastes like, what to look for on the label, and where to find some of the best examples. You'll also get food pairing ideas along the way, whether you're ordering wine for a table full of different dishes, planning pizza night, grilling burgers, or looking for the perfect bottle to drink on a hot summer day. If you're ready to branch out from your usual wine order, this episode will give you plenty of new bottles to look for the next time you're at a wine shop or scanning a restaurant wine list. Resources: Grape Deep Dive - Chenin Blanc https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-21 Grape Deep Dive - Riesling https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-38 My Go-To Chillable Red Wines for Summer https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episod e-56 Greek Wine: A Hidden Gem https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-53 Exploring Portuguese and Mexican Wines w/ Nossa Imports https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-85 Wines & Regions Mentioned: Muscadet Melon Sur lie Sevre et Maine Lambrusco Riunite Lambrusco Lini 910 Lambrusco Chenin Blanc Vouvray Saumur Coteaux du Layon Crémant de Limoux Dry Riesling Germany “Trocken” Mosel Rheingau Pfalz Frappato Austria Reds Zweigelt Blaufrankisch Goes by many names in other countries: Germany: Lemberger Hungary: Kekfrankos Slovenia: Modra Frankinja Romania: Gamé Croatia: Frankovka Italy: Franconia Nera Greek Wines Assyrtiko Moschofilero Agiorgitiko Xinomavro Portugal Vinho Verde Baga Alentejo What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 171 Some of the best wines are the ones most people have never heard of. In part two of this conversation with Certified Sommelier and Pocket Somm founder Amy Yancey, we dig into how she finds thoughtfully made wines that fly under the radar. Amy explains why she prefers the term agrarian over labels like natural, organic, or biodynamic, what she looks for when choosing producers, and the clues that can lead you toward hidden gem wines you might otherwise overlook. We also take a deep dive into grower Champagne, including what makes it different from the big Champagne houses, why Champagne costs so much, and why Meunier deserves more attention. Amy shares how importers can help you discover great bottles, how she finds under-the-radar wines that overdeliver for the price, and how she introduces wine drinkers to grapes, regions, and producers they may have never encountered before. You’ll also hear why expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better, how perceived scarcity can drive wine prices, and why exploring beyond familiar grapes and regions can lead to some of the most exciting bottles you’ll drink. Don’t miss part 1 of my episode with Amy Yancey: What Happens When a Sommelier Loses Her Sight? Connect with Amy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pocketsommgvl/ Website: https://www.pocketsommgvl.com/ Use code CORKFIZZ for $15 off your first order when you sign up for the subscription wine club! https://shop-pocket-somm.myshopify.com/ Episode Highlights: Agrarian vs. natural, organic, and biodynamic wine How to find hidden gem wines What makes grower Champagne different Why Champagne is so expensive Lesser-known grapes of Champagne Using wine importers to discover new bottles Why Meunier Champagne is worth seeking out When expensive wine isn't worth the price What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 170 At 32 years old, Amy Yancey was told it might be time to retire because she was losing her sight. She wasn't ready to walk away from wine. After more than a decade in the wine industry, Amy's retinitis pigmentosa had progressed to the point where working safely on a restaurant floor was no longer possible. But instead of leaving the industry she loved, the Certified Sommelier began figuring out how to build a wine career that could evolve alongside her vision loss. In this episode, Amy shares how her vision loss changed the way she experiences and evaluates wine, what tasting without relying on sight can reveal about our own biases, and why black wine glasses can completely change the tasting experience. She also shares how she created Pocket Somm, built unconventional partnerships that allowed her to stay in the industry, and turned her expertise into private tastings, wine retail, and a subscription wine club. You'll also hear about some of Amy's favorite lesser-known wines, her love of grower Champagne, and why she gravitates toward thoughtfully farmed wines that allow you to taste the grape and the place it came from. Connect with Amy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pocketsommgvl/ Website: https://www.pocketsommgvl.com/ Use code CORKFIZZ for $15 off your first order when you sign up for the subscription wine club! https://shop-pocket-somm.myshopify.com/ Episode Highlights: Building a wine career after vision loss How sight influences the way we taste wine Removing bias with black wine glass tastings Creating Pocket Somm and a new career path How wine education helped Amy adapt her tasting Discovering lesser-known wines and grape varieties Why thoughtfully farmed wines stand out Amy’s love of grower Champagne What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 169 You don’t need to know everything about wine to figure out what you actually like drinking. Maybe you know you love certain wines but have no idea how to explain why. Or you walk into a wine shop and fall back on buying the same bottle because you don’t know what to ask for. In this episode, we’re taking wine tasting back to the basics and learning how to identify the characteristics you actually enjoy in a wine. I break down some of the most common wine terms including tannin, acidity, body, dry, sweet, and fruity and what they actually mean when you’re tasting wine. You’ll also learn how simple side-by-side tastings and a few quick notes can help you recognize patterns in what you like and don’t like. By the end of the episode, you’ll know how to describe your wine preferences and the three things to tell a sommelier or wine shop so they can help you find a bottle you’ll love. Because there’s no wine you should like, a good wine is simply a wine you like drinking. Resources: My 4-Step Wine Tasting Method to Build Your Wine Confidence - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-1 Episode Highlights: What tannin actually feels like in wine Dry vs. sweet vs. fruity wine How to recognize acidity and body Understanding aromas and tasting notes How to identify your wine preferences Easy side-by-side wine tasting experiments Why keeping tasting notes helps The 3 things to share when asking for a wine recommendation Why your wine preferences can change What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 168 Great wine doesn't have to come with a premium price tag. Some of the world's most famous wines have become famous for a reason. Sancerre, Burgundy, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and Champagne are all incredible wines. But they're also some of the bottles that can make your wallet hurt. The good news? There are plenty of lesser-known wines that offer a similar style without costing you an arm and a leg. In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite value hacks for expensive wines. You'll learn what to look for instead of the big names, which regions and grape varieties I recommend, and why some of the best values are hiding just outside the world's most famous wine regions. You'll discover that some of the best bottles on the shelf aren't always the ones with the most recognizable names. The next time you're standing in a wine shop or looking over a restaurant wine list, you'll have plenty of new wines to try and the confidence to reach for something different. Resources: French Wine 101 - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-19 French Wine 101 Part Deux - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-35 All About Sparkling Wine - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-44 Wines mentioned in this episode: Menetou-Salon Pouilly-Fumé Quincy, Reuilly Touraine Côtes du Rhone Blanc Saumur Blanc Godello White Rioja Reserva IGT Toscana Chardonnay Spatburgunder (Germany) Pinot Nero (Italy) Santa Barbara Pinot Noir from California Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Cru Beaujolais Etna Rossa Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon Portuguese Touriga Nacional Argentinean Malbec Greek Agiorgitiko Cremant Cava Episode Highlights: Why famous wine regions often come with higher price tags Why famous wines cost more than just what's in the bottle Affordable alternatives to Sancerre Budget-friendly swaps for white Burgundy Better value options for red Burgundy Alternatives to Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Sparkling wines that rival Champagne for less How to shop by style instead of reputation What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 167 What if wineries have been creating the wrong experience all along? For many people, walking into a winery can feel intimidating. Between unfamiliar wine terminology, formal tastings, and the pressure to know what you like, it's easy to feel like wine isn't meant for you. But what if wineries borrowed a page from breweries by creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels comfortable, whether they're a wine expert or simply enjoying a glass with friends? In part two of our conversation, Andrew Gerow shares why his Washington winery, Tirriddis, was intentionally designed to feel more like a brewery than a traditional tasting room. He explains how customer feedback has influenced both the winery experience and the evolution of their sparkling wines, why balance matters more than chasing the driest sparkling wine possible, and how a small amount of sweetness can actually improve traditional method sparkling wine. If you've ever felt intimidated by wine or wondered what makes a winery experience truly memorable, this episode is for you. Be sure to listen to Part 1 (Episode 166) to learn how traditional method sparkling wine is made and why Washington is uniquely suited to producing world-class sparkling wine. Connect with Andrew: Website: https://www.tirriddis.com/ Episode Highlights: Why Tirriddis was designed to feel like a brewery Creating a welcoming tasting room experience Why balance matters more than ultra dry sparkling wine The truth about sugar in sparkling wine Why listening to consumers creates better wine How tasting room feedback shapes better wines Andrew's vision for Washington sparkling wine What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 166 The future of great sparkling wine may not be coming from where you think. For centuries, traditional method sparkling wine has been defined by regions like Champagne. But a new generation of Washington winemakers is proving that great sparkling wine doesn't have to imitate anyone else. Instead, they're embracing Washington's unique climate, grape varieties, and winemaking philosophy to create wines that are distinctly their own. In this episode, Andrew Gerow, co-founder and general manager of Tirriddis, shares how he and two of his fellow college classmates launched a winery during the pandemic and why they chose one of the most technically challenging styles of winemaking. He explains what traditional method sparkling wine actually is, why Washington is uniquely suited to produce it, and how their philosophy of being "unapologetically Washington" influences every bottle they make. If you've ever wondered how sparkling wine is made, what makes Washington sparkling wine different, or why Washington has become such an exciting place for sparkling wine, this episode is for you. Connect with Andrew: Website: https://www.tirriddis.com/ Episode Highlights: How three college friends started a sparkling winery during the pandemic Why Washington is ideal for traditional method sparkling wine How the balance of art and science shapes great winemaking How tirage, riddling, and disgorging create sparkling wine How Tirriddis is creating a uniquely Washington style of sparkling wine The philosophy behind making wines that are unapologetically Washington Three sparkling wines to try for your first Tirriddis tasting What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 165 What if your next great wine trip is hiding in the Columbia Gorge? After a recent trip to the Columbia Gorge, I knew I had to share more about this unique wine region. Sitting right on the border of Washington and Oregon, the Columbia Gorge is full of beautiful views, laid-back tasting rooms, and wineries producing everything from red, white, sparkling, orange, and dessert wines to unique grape varieties you may not see in other Washington wine regions. In this episode, I’m sharing a little bit of the history, geography, and climate that make the Columbia Gorge such an exciting place for wine. I’ll also walk you through some of the wineries I visited, a few spots that are still on my list, and practical tips for planning your own trip, including where to stay, where to eat, and how to map out your tasting itinerary. Whether you're planning a Pacific Northwest vacation or simply looking for your next wine adventure, the Columbia Gorge is a wine region worth adding to your list! Resources: My Trip to France: Jura Wine 101 - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-79 Inside the most underrated Wine Region in Washington w/ AniChe Cellars (Part 1) - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-114 A Washington Winery Built on Inclusion w/ AniChe Cellars (Part 2) - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-115 Episode Highlights: What makes the Columbia Gorge AVA unique Why the Columbia Gorge is a must-visit wine destination The best wineries to add to your itinerary Grape varieties you'll discover throughout the region Where to stay during your visit Restaurants, bakeries, and wine bars worth stopping at Tips for planning your winery route Transportation options for a worry-free tasting day Hidden gems throughout the Columbia Gorge How to make the most of a Columbia Gorge wine getaway What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 164 What if one of the biggest wine buzzwords is actually much simpler than it sounds? If you've ever heard the term carbonic maceration and thought, "What in the world does that mean?" trust me, you're not alone. Honestly, I put off covering this topic for a while because I felt the same way. But once I dove into the research, I realized it's actually much simpler than it sounds. In this episode, you'll learn exactly what carbonic maceration is, how it differs from traditional fermentation, why it became synonymous with Beaujolais, and why so many modern natural winemakers continue to embrace the technique. You'll also discover the differences between carbonic maceration, semi carbonic maceration, and whole cluster fermentation without getting lost in complicated wine science. So, if you've ever seen "carbonic" on a wine label and wondered what it actually means, this episode will give you the confidence to understand the technique, recognize the flavors it creates, and know exactly what to expect before you open the bottle. Carbonic Wine Recommendations: Beaujolais: The “Gang of Four” - Jean Foillard Morgon, Marcel Lapiere Morgon, Guy Breton Morgon, Jean-Paul Thevenet Morgon Bernard Diochon Moulin-à-Vent “Vieilles Vignes” Nicole Chanrion Côte-de-Brouilly Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau (look for it around Thanksgiving time) Washington: Latta Wines 2023 Lucius Wines Carbonic Syrah COR Cellars Carbonic Primitivo Devium Wines Dwelley Dolcetto Sage Rat Carbonic Nebbiolo California: Terah Wine Co. Carbonic Sangiovese Las Jaras Glou Glou Other: Gran Moraine Flavorscape Gamay Noir (Oregon) Niepoort - Nat'Cool Drink Me Tinto (Portuguese blend) Gevorkian Ariats Kangoun Carbonic Karasi Wines of Armenia: https://winesofarmenia.com/ Episode Highlights: What carbonic maceration actually means Why carbonic wines are not carbonated How carbonic differs from traditional fermentation Carbonic vs semi carbonic maceration Whole cluster fermentation explained Why carbonic wines taste so fruity Why Beaujolais became famous for carbonic wines The history behind the technique Common aromas created through carbonic maceration Recommended wines to try from around the world What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 163 What does it take to build a world-class wine program on a remote Caribbean island? In part two of this conversation with sommelier Mia Martensson, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how she transformed a resort wine list from just 30 wines into a collection of 620 bottles. She shares the challenges of sourcing wine on an island, creating a destination tasting experience, and launching a wine festival that now attracts hundreds of guests each year. You'll also hear which wine regions and styles have her most excited right now, including Etna, Chablis, Sancerre, grower Champagne, and the wine she believes deserves far more attention from drinkers: Riesling. Plus, Mia shares unforgettable stories from her years aboard the world's largest privately owned residential yacht, including serving Champagne on a glacier in Antarctica and receiving training on what to do if attacked by a polar bear. If you've ever wondered what life as a sommelier looks like beyond the dining room, this episode is for you. Don’t miss ep 162 which is part 1 of my conversation with Mia! Connect with Mia: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martensson.mia/ Seven Stars Resort: www.sevenstarsgracebay.com Episode Highlights: Building a luxury wine program in Turks & Caicos Growing a wine list from 30 to 620 wines Why Etna wines are worth seeking out The current Chablis and Sancerre boom Why more people should be drinking Riesling Inside the Flight Club wine experience The rise of Grower Champagne Traveling to Champagne and South Africa Serving Champagne on an Antarctic glacier The wine myth that bugs Mia the most What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 162 What if the biggest opportunities in your life come from simply saying yes? In this episode, I’m sitting down with sommelier Mia Martensson, whose impressive wine career has taken her from a teenager working in hospitality to Michelin-starred restaurants, South Africa's wine country, the world's largest privately owned mega yacht, and eventually to becoming the creative force behind the award-winning wine and beverage program at Seven Stars Resort in Turks & Caicos. What’s remarkable is that none of it was part of some carefully mapped-out plan. Instead, each chapter began with an opportunity she was willing to explore. Mia shares how a mentor first introduced her to wine, how a chance opportunity led her to Michelin-starred restaurants in Stockholm, and why a short trip to South Africa turned into nearly a decade immersed in one of the world’s most exciting wine regions. Along the way, she tasted legendary wines, worked alongside some of the industry's most influential figures, and built a career that spanned continents. We also dive into how tasting historic wines shaped her perspective, why she pursued WSET education, how wine education has evolved over the years, and the wine regions that continue to inspire her after decades in the industry. If you’ve ever wondered where following your curiosity might lead or dreamed of building a career around your passion, this episode is for you. Connect with Mia: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martensson.mia/ Seven Stars Resort: www.sevenstarsgracebay.com Episode Highlights: Mia's journey from dishwasher to sommelier Working in Michelin-starred restaurants in Sweden Tasting legendary wines and historic vintages Why South Africa became a turning point in her career The opportunities that shaped Mia's career WSET and the evolution of wine education The role networking plays in the wine industry Underrated wine regions in Argentina and Chile Why Australia deserves more attention The wines and regions that continue to inspire her What makes wine such a powerful connector Resources: What Makes South African Wine so Unique w/ Duncan Savage (Part 1) - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-130 How Duncan Savage is Redefining South African Wine (Part 2) - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/category/south-african-wine Exploring Australian Wine w/ Jane Lopes - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-34 What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 161 Think decanting is only for expensive red wine? You might be missing out on getting more from wines you already own. Most wine drinkers associate decanters with fancy restaurants, aged Bordeaux, and special occasions. But the reality is that decanting can benefit everything from an older red to certain white wines and even an affordable bottle from the grocery store. In this episode, we dive into where the decanting myth came from and what decanting actually does to your wine. You'll learn the two main reasons for decanting, the science behind evaporation and oxidation, how sediment forms in both red and white wines, and how long different styles of wine should spend in a decanter. You'll also discover when decanting can improve a wine and when it's better to skip it altogether. So if you've ever wondered whether decanting is worth the effort or just another wine ritual, this episode will help you decide when it can genuinely improve what's in your glass. Episode Highlights: Why the decanting myth exists The two main purposes of decanting Sediment in red and white wines Why some wines smell like sulfur or matchsticks when first opened Evaporation vs. oxidation explained When cheap wines benefit from decanting How long to decant different wine styles Wines that should not be decanted What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 160 You’ve probably assumed wine always gets better with age…but not all wine is meant to sit for years. Aged wine sounds fancy, right? The older the bottle, the better it must be. Right? Nope. Sure, some wines are meant to age. But a lot of wine you’re buying is already close to its peak and waiting too long doesn’t make it better. In this episode, I’m breaking down what actually happens as wine ages and why aging = better doesn’t apply across the board. I’ll walk you through the simple way to think about a wine’s lifespan, how to tell if something is worth aging, and what’s really going on when wine hits its peak and then starts to go downhill. So if you’ve been saving bottles thinking they’ll get better with time, this might change how you decide when to open them. Resources: You Can’t Age White Wine…Or Can You? - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-145 Episode Highlights: Why the idea that older wine is better became so common The bell curve that explains a wine’s lifespan Why many everyday wines are meant to be consumed sooner What actually makes a wine age-worthy What characteristics actually allow a wine to age well Why many wines peak within a year or two of bottling How the taste and structure of wine change over time How storage impacts whether wine improves or declines Why you might not even like aged wine What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman

Ep 159 The region matters. The grape matters. But how the wine is made is what changes everything. There’s a level of intention happening behind the scenes that most people never see. In this episode with Maxx and Sidney from Stranger Wine Co., you’ll hear how winemaking decisions like not crushing grapes, using native yeasts, and limiting intervention completely change the structure, texture, and expression of the wine. In a cold climate like Michigan, even small choices can impact tannins, aromatics, and balance in a big way. This isn’t about doing things a certain way just because that’s how it’s always been done. It’s about making intentional choices that actually impact how the wine tastes. We also get into what it actually looks like to build a winery from the ground up, from regenerative farming and taking on more vineyard land to navigating sales, distribution, and growth as a small team. Because making the wine is only part of it, getting people to understand it and buy into it is a completely different challenge. If you’ve ever wondered why some wines feel more expressive, more balanced, or just plain different, this episode will tell you exactly what’s behind that. Connect with Maxx and Sidney from Stranger Wine Co. Website: https://www.strangerwineco.com/ Episode Highlights: How cold climate impacts winemaking decisions Why they avoid crushing grapes in production The role of sulfur and common misconceptions What it takes to build a winery from scratch How they divide roles as a small team Why selling wine is often the hardest part Their approach to minimal intervention winemaking 4 wines that best represent the style of Stranger Wine Co. What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman