Showing 171 of 171 episodes
Episode 118 · October 19, 2026
Michelin is now rating wineries, and critics are not impressed. Brett Martin breaks down the Bordeaux grape ratings controversy, Oregon's Eola-Amity Hills collecting six 100-point wines, and Arbois at 90. Plus Devona Winery, Pine Ridge Cabernet, Hattaway's on Alder, and corkage at Sidney Street Cafe in St. Louis.
Episode 117 · October 12, 2026
Crashing bulk wine prices force California growers to give away Pinot Noir and clear vineyards, even as Oregon's Rogue Valley claims top national honors. Meanwhile, Chinese critic Alexandre Ma revolutionizes Eastern wine reviews, and Sicily's widely planted Catarratto grape finally captures the global spotlight.
Episode 116 · October 5, 2026
The U.S. wine market faces its fifth straight year of volume decline, dropping below 300 million cases. Meanwhile, AI technology is revolutionizing wine authentication and taste mapping, counterfeiters target mass-market brands, and Wales pushes to establish the world’s first official natural wine appellation.
Episode 115 · September 28, 2026
New research debunks the myth of Gen Z alcohol moderation while revealing Boomers are actually drinking less, as traditional wine clubs face stalling growth. Internationally, Russia launches a massive, 4.2-hectare "wine Disneyland" on the Black Sea, and Portugal pioneers immersive underwater wine tourism off the Alentejo Coast.
Episode 114 · September 21, 2026
A broad lawsuit against Napa County threatens local winery operations, while a high-stakes succession battle rocks France’s Castel drinks empire. Meanwhile, thieves made off with over 3,000 bottles of Italian sparkling wine, and New Mexico’s historic Vivac Winery hits the market, offering a rare piece of Southwestern heritage.
Episode 113 · September 14, 2026
From the MICHELIN Guide introducing its inaugural "Grape" distinctions in Burgundy to Virginia wines standing shoulder-to-shoulder with top French bottles in Paris, regional prestige is taking new forms. Meanwhile, six new Master Sommeliers earned their pins, and a new documentary spotlights East Coast winemaking.
Episode 112 · September 7, 2026
Escalating tariffs are reshaping global trade, forcing Franzia to sell Australian wine packaged in China while US lawmakers push the "CANADA Act" to penalize Canadian alcohol bans. Meanwhile, South Africa pivots toward drought-resistant Greek grapes, and US Champagne sales show a steady rebound.
Episode 111 · August 31, 2026
Vineyard technology took center stage as UV-C light robots debuted to combat powdery mildew, while AI search tools ignited debates on alcohol health risks. Meanwhile, a new data platform promises to solve "planning paralysis" in Walla Walla, and Washington’s Abeja Winery highlights the regional news.
Episode 110 · August 24, 2026
A steep drop in direct-to-consumer shipments and staggering farming costs are driving calls for small Napa vineyards to bulldoze, while Australia’s Heartland Wines collapses under a massive 2-billion-liter global oversupply. In response to rising systemic volatility, Italy has launched its first income-stabilization "crisis fund" for winemakers.
Episode 109 · August 17, 2026
Europe and California are facing unprecedented early harvests driven by extreme heat, with Champagne on track for its earliest start since 1822. Meanwhile, a light 2026 crop offers potential market balance, and new climate modeling suggests the future of California wine could shift north to Mendocino.
Episode 108 · August 10, 2026
From Pope Leo XIV blessing the first organic Cabernet harvest at the Vatican to DNA revelations showing Chianti’s white grape roots, history and wine remain intertwined. Meanwhile, Texas vintners scored record-breaking wins on the world stage, and a major new study found no link between moderate drinking and cancer mortality.
Episode 107 · August 3, 2026
From New York’s quiet shift toward Cabernet Franc as its true signature grape to Bordeaux locals shunning their own historic bottles, regional identities are in flux. Meanwhile, Australian Shiraz rebranded as "Syrah" to match lighter palates, and archaeologists unearthed 2,000-year-old liquid wine preserved inside a Roman funeral urn in Spain.
Episode 106 · July 27, 2026
From sommelier-approved grocery store bargains to Canada pressing for direct-to-consumer interprovincial wine shipping, accessibility is taking center stage. Meanwhile, American importers navigate compounding tariff costs, and New York City sparks intense industry backlash with "Buzzkill"—a unprecedented subway health campaign plastering cancer warnings across alcohol ads.
Episode 105 · July 20, 2026
California’s crippled wine industry hits rock bottom with crashing land values, while global spirits volume officially overtakes wine for the first time in history. Meanwhile, new competition from Ozempic and sports betting apps redefines consumer habits as China quietly transforms into a high-end, premium wine producer.
Episode 104 · July 13, 2026
A historic shift has rocked France as beer consumption officially overtakes wine for the first time ever. Meanwhile, Opus One ditches its famous manicured lawns to tackle a water-poor climate, US sales numbers hit a six-year slump, and a major agricultural quarantine panic strikes a Napa Costco.
Episode 103 · July 6, 2026
A major push for global alcohol warning labels was just shot down by a Mexico-led coalition, while the U.S. Supreme Court slammed the door on cross-border retail shipping. On the bright side, New York is finally axing its archaic Prohibition-era liquor laws, and Walla Walla is launching a business-focused wine certificate.
Episode 102 · June 29, 2026
A brutal trade war is crushing American wine exports to Canada, paving the way for Italian producers to swoop in. Meanwhile, France is spending millions to uproot 28,000 hectares of surplus vineyards, and Australian vintners are reeling after the government abruptly axed a vital wine tourism grant.
Episode 101 · June 22, 2026
Robert Mondavi Winery reopens with a stunning Silicon Valley-style makeover, even as premium sales flatten out across Napa. Meanwhile, a massive generational shift is taking over China, where old-school producers face historic profit drops but tech-savvy, younger consumers are suddenly driving a whole new digital wine boom.
Episode 100 · June 15, 2026
Napa Valley is hitting a regulatory and financial pressure point, with industry insiders calling for a massive winery reality check and trade groups pushing for permit reform. Meanwhile, Norah Jones is striking a collaborative chord with a French winery, and Lodi's old vines remind us how effortless great Zinfandel can be.
Episode 99 · June 8, 2026
From Colorado’s new digital wine trail app to LVMH’s abrupt exit from Indian winemaking, the regional wine landscape is shifting. Meanwhile, retired tech execs are "messing up retirement" with a major new Idaho winery, and Southern Utah is reviving a forgotten 19th-century viticultural tradition in the desert.
Episode 98 · June 1, 2026
Vineyard tech took a hit with the sudden collapse of AI-driven Monarch Tractor, while Napa growers are feeling the pinch of shocking regulatory costs. On the bright side, the global Old Vine Registry just smashed its milestones early, and tiny, curated wine shops are proving that less space means better business.
Episode 97 · May 25, 2026
While a single bottle of 1945 DRC shattered world records at an astonishing $812,500, everyday American drinkers are aggressively tightening their belts. Facing a luxury-market squeeze in Napa and inflation everywhere else, consumers are embracing sub-$20 bottles, exploring lesser-known regions, and hunting for authentic value over pure prestige.
Episode 96 · May 18, 2026
Diners are officially pushing back against pricey restaurant wine lists, while big-brand favorites win over newcomers ahead of bitter bottles. Globally, Argentina’s Catena Zapata dominates prestige rankings, Germany rolls out a complex new labeling law, and a modern "Judgment of Paris" redo gives struggling American winemakers a well-deserved victory.
Episode 95 · May 11, 2026
Between international battles over bottle labels and China’s crackdown on "extravagant" drinking, the wine world is feeling some heat. On the bright side, Australian winemakers just caught a break with EU tariffs, and Southwest is making it way easier to haul a case of Sonoma Cabernet home for free.
Episode 94 · May 4, 2026
From new research on wine’s unique health profile to Netflix’s upcoming Napa-based drama, the industry is balancing modern science with cultural storytelling. While vintners assess a generous 2024 vintage and reflect on the legacy of the late "Master Blender," Southern California boutiques are proving that the future of wine remains vibrantly local.
Episode 93 · April 27, 2026
From AI-powered sommeliers and satellite-monitored vineyards in Bordeaux to the shifting economics of U.S. wine tariffs, the industry is embracing high-tech tools while navigating trade turbulence. Meanwhile, domestic wineries focus on tasting room conversions and historic venues like Trevor’s at the Tracks continue to bridge the gap between tradition and modern dining.
Episode 92 · April 20, 2026
This week in wine explores industry adaptation through education, subtle hospitality shifts, and climate resilience. Discover how Portugal demystifies its 250 native grapes, why American wineries are rethinking consumer engagement, and how extreme weather led to Dom Pérignon's smallest vintage ever, while forcing a French grower into a tiny kayak.
Episode 91 · April 13, 2026
From Coravin’s two-millionth sale to a Supreme Court case that could revolutionize direct-to-consumer shipping, this week’s wine news blends high-tech milestones with high-stakes legal battles. Plus, we examine Italian fraud crackdowns and a bizarre controversy involving human-compost-derived soil.
Episode 90 · April 6, 2026
In this week’s wine news, the long-dreaded wave of California winery closures has finally arrived, while the trade battles renewed tariff uncertainty. Plus, UC Davis tests a new spray against wildfire smoke, Chef Thomas Keller scolds Yountville over workforce housing, and we feature top Italian varietals and Spanish tapas.
Episode 89 · March 30, 2026
This round-up highlights California’s shift toward accessible, experience-driven tastings and collaborative tasting rooms in Paso Robles. While France reduces vineyard acreage to combat oversupply, Scandinavia’s wine industry is rapidly expanding. Additionally, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the historic Judgment of Paris.
Episode 88 · March 23, 2026
From the storied hills of Chianti Classico to the volcanic Canary Islands, this week’s news highlights a wine industry in flux. Producers are navigating leadership changes, environmental catastrophes, and shifting global markets with a blend of strategic innovation and site-driven precision, proving that great wine remains as much about people as terroir.
Episode 87 · March 16, 2026
This week’s round-up explores a sobering market correction as winery buyers vanish and direct-to-consumer sales suffer historic declines. Meanwhile, modern consumer habits challenge traditional norms, sparking debates over the standard 750ml bottle and the rise of fine-dining water menus. Plus, we feature Santa Barbara’s Cordon winery.
Episode 86 · March 9, 2026
This week’s round-up explores a deepening rift in the regenerative viticulture movement regarding organic certification. Meanwhile, Argentina’s wine industry faces a historic economic crisis, while French producers remain optimistic about long-term resilience. Plus, a DNA breakthrough links Turkish Kolorko to Hungary’s Furmint, and we profile Santa Barbara’s Dragonette Cellars.
Episode 85 · March 2, 2026
This week's wine industry roundup covers a market in transition. California grape growers face harsh realities, needing to remove thousands of vineyard acres to combat oversupply, while producers pivot to attract Millennial and Gen Z drinkers. We also unpack Arista Winery’s closure, Monarch Tractor's collapse, and highlight standout boutique bottles.
Episode 84 · February 23, 2026
As the global wine industry faces a structural reset in 2026, producers are adapting to shifting consumer tastes, softened secondary markets, and strict new organic farming regulations in France. Dive into this week's round-up for the latest market insights, plus our top winery and restaurant picks in Temecula.
Episode 83 · February 16, 2026
Experts debate wine’s health effects while Alaska courts expand tasting room entertainment rights. Meanwhile, California lawmakers aim to close foreign bulk juice loopholes, and analysts warn of a looming grape shortage. We also explore Mondavi’s downtown luxury, a rare 2001 Sierra Foothills Cabernet, and top dining spots in Florence and San Francisco.
Episode 82 · February 9, 2026
The global wine landscape is shifting as Idaho’s high-altitude vineyards gain international acclaim while Australian producers face devastating losses from wildfires. Meanwhile, the industry grapples with changing U.S. health guidelines and the evolving relevance of the traditional 100-point scoring system.
Episode 81 · February 2, 2026
From international wine heists and the rise of weight-loss pills to the silver linings of a volatile market, 2025 was a year of profound transformation for the wine world. This week’s round-up explores the headlines and bottles shaping the industry as we enter 2026.
Episode 80 · January 26, 2026
This week explores how trade wars and policy shifts are reshaping liquor markets in Canada and Saudi Arabia. We also cover the latest AHA heart health data and Costco’s surprising rise in the Napa Valley wine scene.
Episode 79 · January 19, 2026
Chateau Ste. Michelle was a jewel of the wine industry a decade ago, but it was just dumped like a cubic zirconia... The Manhattan-based private equity firm that bought CSM in 2021 handed it off to a family of Washington grapegrowers.
Episode 78 · January 12, 2026
This week’s round-up explores surging fine wine demand in Latin America and the resilience of the global bulk wine market amidst a broader industry downturn. We also examine the debate over government bailouts for U.S. growers and look back at the lasting impacts of Prohibition.
Episode 77 · January 5, 2026
This week’s news highlights a global industry at a crossroads where historic regions like France and Australia implement drastic restructuring plans while Florida and Texas celebrate major breakthroughs in innovation. Dive into these pivotal shifts redefining the future of wine alongside our top picks for the week’s best pours and dining destinations.
Episode 76 · December 29, 2025
From a brazen $38,000 Burgundy heist in Virginia to new data revealing Millennials as the industry's most critical consumer base, we get into the shifting trends and high drama defining the wine world this week.
Episode 75 · December 22, 2025
A record-breaking 416-year-old wild grapevine in Tibet sets an oddball headline, while Napa’s unpicked fruit and vineyard removals, Wine-Searcher’s “rock bottom” debate, and Oregon’s climate-driven varietal shifts frame a sobering industry snapshot, before the round-up ends on bright spots with Barton Family Wines, a 2020 Domaine du Grand Tinel Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Forma in Civitavecchia.
Episode 74 · December 15, 2025
This week’s Wine News Round-Up tracks how wine media is evolving fast, with Tom Wark questioning what human wine writing still does better than machines, and Robert Joseph arguing that scores remain a practical shortcut consumers still rely on. Meanwhile, Michelin signals a bold new move into global wine rankings, Wine Spectator’s 2025 Top 100 spotlights both prestige and value, and our picks of the week deliver London atmosphere alongside a Texas High Plains Merlot with serious drive.
Episode 73 · December 8, 2025
This week’s round-up spans a major new project from Master Sommelier Ian Cauble, fresh debates over “minerality,” a data-driven look at whether old vines truly matter, and a federal bribery case shaking California’s retail shelves. Alongside the news, we spotlight a Cretan winery rooted in tradition, a standout Gewürztraminer from Sonoma, and a Roman restaurant delivering classic flavor in the heart of the city.
Episode 72 · December 1, 2025
A proposed “Wine Country pool club” in Sonoma collapsed after planners ruled that pools aren’t permitted at wineries, despite millions in committed funding. The setback highlights the region’s ongoing tension between tourism-driven growth and residents pushing back against turning Wine Country into a theme park.
Episode 71 · November 24, 2025
Wine tourism now makes up roughly 25% of global winery revenue, driven by tastings, tours, and on-site experiences across 47 countries. Wineries overwhelmingly expect this growth to continue, citing tourism as a stabilizing force that boosts rural economies and community resilience.
Episode 70 · November 17, 2025
Wine capsules may be increasingly out of favor with some drinkers, but a new neuromarketing study covered in The Drinks Business shows that nine out of ten consumers still perceive capsule-topped bottles as higher quality. Meanwhile, Nikkei Asia, The Drinks Business, and VinePair highlight a global shift, from Japan’s rising domestic-grape prestige to Thailand’s growing wine market and Champagne’s addition of Pink Chardonnay, that underscores how fast consumer preferences and regional identities are evolving.
Episode 69 · November 10, 2025
Japan’s century-old brewing laws have frozen innovation at home and unexpectedly ignited a U.S. sake renaissance, with nearly 30 American breweries now crafting experimental rice ferments that Japan’s own rules forbid. Meanwhile, Andrew Jefford’s twin essays in Decanter urge calm amid health alarmism and climate-driven alcohol creep, reminding readers that pleasure, proportion, and balance—not panic—remain the truest measures of wine’s worth.
Episode 68 · November 3, 2025
Kermit Lynch reflects on a lifetime spent championing soulful, terroir-driven wines in Wine Spectator’s two-part feature, railing against enological conformity while celebrating harmony, individuality, and the enduring joy of the table. Meanwhile, the San Francisco Chronicle spotlights Kenny Likitprakong’s under-$25 California gems, Wine Business follows Charles Smith’s “REAL Wine” transparency crusade, and Phys.org reports that bacteria might soon help erase wildfire smoke from tainted wines.
Episode 67 · October 27, 2025
Mexico’s wine map is shifting as Puebla and Hidalgo rise to challenge Valle de Guadalupe, producing wines from volcanic soils just outside the “wine belt.” Elsewhere, Argentina dominates Wine-Searcher’s Top 10 Malbecs, Europe faces a succession crisis, and Canada sees a tariff-sparked wine boom.
Episode 66 · October 20, 2025
Ordering premium wine by the glass is shedding its stigma as preservation tech and consumer curiosity expand high-end BTG programs—from £50 Champagne pours to curated lists across London, Sydney, Milan, and California. Meanwhile, English sparkling hits a milestone with Nyetimber’s 2016 BdB Magnum crowned IWC Champion, Churchill’s Prohibition “doctor’s note” resurfaces, “Drops of God” returns Jan 21, 2026, and Poggio Amorelli plus Ao Yun star alongside Poggio Rosso’s polished Michelin experience.
Episode 65 · October 13, 2025
Tariffs still bite; winery-hotels surge as travelers seek immersive stays. Plus GIII lineage, Afterwords’ 97-point debut, and our picks—Château Mont-Thabor 2021 CdP and Terrae – Truffe & Vin.
Episode 64 · October 6, 2025
Wild chimps get naturally tipsy, Sonoma debates a 1% wine tax, and Lodi’s once-odd vineyard now has a waiting list. Plus, Robb Report names the 50 greatest California Chardonnays—and our picks of the week span Panizzi, San Felice, and Azumi Houston.
Episode 63 · September 29, 2025
Angelina Mondavi breaks family precedent as the first woman to lead winemaking at Charles Krug, while Europe’s wine culture faces WHO scrutiny, Costco recalls shattering Prosecco, and Chianti Classico earns new respect with its subzones.
Episode 62 · September 22, 2025
Three states—Mississippi, Delaware, and Arkansas—have overhauled their direct-to-consumer shipping laws, signaling a notable loosening of long-standing restrictions in the U.S. DtC wine market. Meanwhile, Alma Rosa’s Samra Morris has been named a finalist for Wine Enthusiast’s 2025 Winemaker of the Year, Napa bottle prices push national averages upward, and blind tasting emerges as social media’s latest wine-education trend.
Episode 61 · September 15, 2025
Congress kneecaps an anti-alcohol panel, Gen X flexes real buying power, and reservation-only bars squeeze spontaneity. Here is why it matters for your glass now, plus our picks, La Lama’s patient Chianti Classico, the value 2022 Il Bruciato, and Houston’s Xochi where corkage is not allowed.
Episode 60 · September 8, 2025
California’s 2025 harvest is turning grim with abandoned fruit and vineyard removals, while climate stress is normalizing non-vintage still wines and even media brands are launching wine shops and clubs. We also chart Texas Hill Country’s steady rise, and spotlight Felsina, a nuanced 2017 San Filippo Brunello, and Vegas’s LMP Restaurant & Bar with a friendly $30 corkage.
Episode 59 · September 1, 2025
Wine headlines this week span from USA Today’s surprising “Best Wine Regions” list—where Suisun Valley, Rogue Valley, and even Lubbock make the cut—to the San Francisco Giants’ launch of Major League Baseball’s first wine club with Sonoma County vintners. On the global front, South African wineries face steep new U.S. tariffs, while fresh tools like WineSpeak and standout bottles from Page Springs Cellars and Cantine Marisa Cuomo show how innovation and regional character continue to shape the industry.
Episode 58 · August 25, 2025
Napa cult Cab demand is cooling as collectors trade $500 bottles for fresher, better-value wines, Michelin standards differ sharply between Europe and the U.S., Gen Z drinks less but better, and Sonoma’s proposed Wine Improvement District sparks pushback.
Episode 57 · August 18, 2025
It’s list season again, and the USA Today 10 Best rankings are in: spotlighting top tasting rooms, wine country hotels, and winery tours across the U.S., with a few familiar names and some hidden gems we’ve personally explored. From Pinot standouts in Oregon to boutique stays in wine-soaked valleys, we’ve rounded up the highlights, added our own picks, and poured in a little extra for your next wine escape.
Episode 56 · August 11, 2025
From quirky historical tariffs to modern trade disputes, this week’s wine headlines prove politics and wine have always been an unpredictable pairing, sometimes with billion-dollar stakes. Meanwhile, Napa’s high-tech Vineyard 29 hits the market, Jura’s once-illegal vin jaune gains U.S. approval, and Sedona’s Art of Wine invites guests to sip, learn, and explore.
Episode 55 · August 4, 2025
Jancis Robinson urges wine lovers to snap up Sauternes while it’s still undervalued and unfashionable, arguing that its longevity, craftsmanship, and inevitable resurgence make it a smart cellar investment.
Episode 54 · July 28, 2025
ChatGPT said: A Brit faces charges in a $99M wine scam, Champagne producers revive old bottles, and tech tools target DTC wine woes. Plus, when to send wine back, and this week’s picks: Alma Rosa and Orla.
Episode 53 · July 21, 2025
From a landmark Michigan court victory inspiring a legal challenge to Napa’s ag preserve law, to Washington’s urban DTC tasting boom, to Alex Maltman’s sharp debunking of “minerality” myths in Taste the Limestone, Smell the Slate—the stories all reveal how producers are reclaiming control over how, where, and why we experience wine.
Episode 52 · July 14, 2025
The World Health Organization is taking a page from its anti-tobacco strategy to aggressively regulate alcohol, a move The Drinks Business warns could devastate the drinks industry through lawsuits, advertising bans, and punitive taxes. But with rising consumer interest in moderation and low-ABV innovation, the industry may have a stronger defense than Big Tobacco ever did.
Episode 51 · July 7, 2025
Winemakers might be playing a little loose with the truth—at least when it comes to what’s on the alcohol label. And while Gen Z gets branded the "sober generation," new data says they're sipping more than expected.
Episode 50 · June 30, 2025
Direct-to-consumer sales have officially become the dominant revenue stream for U.S. wineries, now comprising 73% of average sales according to Silicon Valley Bank’s 2025 DtC Wine Report. Meanwhile, in New York, a newly passed bill allows bars and restaurants to legally purchase limited bottles of wine or spirits from nearby retailers—a practical fix to an often-fined workaround.
Episode 49 · June 23, 2025
Wine shipping laws remain a tangled mess, with consumers in 37 states still unable to receive wine from out-of-state retailers—a restriction Tom Wark calls a direct blow to access and choice. Meanwhile, at UC Davis, students are finally able to sell wines they've crafted in class thanks to a new law, with proceeds supporting scholarships and sustainability efforts.
Episode 48 · June 16, 2025
Healdsburg’s SingleThread earned the No. 80 spot on the extended “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list, joining San Francisco’s Atelier Crenn as one of only two California entries. Meanwhile, Roederer Estate’s 2019 L’Ermitage Brut made history as the first U.S. sparkling wine to receive a perfect 100-point score from Wine Enthusiast.
Episode 47 · June 9, 2025
Opolo Vineyards introduces the bold, dark-skinned Balkan grape Vranac to Paso Robles with a 2021 Reserve bottling, only 50 cases made and available direct from the winery. Meanwhile, the TTB stirs debate with proposed wine label changes, including a ban on terms like "orange wine," as budget cuts raise fears of automation taking over approval duties.
Episode 46 · June 2, 2025
From sommeliers selling $25,000 bottles to Fredericksburg’s surprising rise as the country’s second-biggest wine tourism hub, this week’s wine news covers both splurges and surges. Plus, signs of optimism in the industry, from creative wine clubs to climbing online sales, suggest the bottom may finally be behind us.
Episode 45 · May 26, 2025
Private equity is reshaping the California wine scene, while screen time is stealing the spotlight from alcohol, according to Asahi’s CEO. Meanwhile, Sonoma’s top wineries shine, New Jersey tightens its grip on event rules, and Montemar Winery offers a fun, no-fuss experience in Lompoc.
Episode 44 · May 19, 2025
Bordeaux producers are slashing en primeur prices by over 30% amid investor pullback, poor harvests, and waning interest from younger buyers—making this a rough vintage for winemakers but a bargain moment for collectors. Meanwhile, American Cabernet lovers are trading down, grabbing more affordable bottles as high-end wines quietly drop in price, signaling shifting priorities in a tighter economy.
Episode 43 · May 12, 2025
Congress is pushing back against Biden’s proposed alcohol guidelines, which could have sweeping consequences for the wine and hospitality industries. Meanwhile, California grape growers are battling cheap imports, the EU dominates global wine exports (with the U.S. as a crucial market), and Napa Valley faces rising costs and shifting consumer trends—but also a few silver linings.
Episode 42 · May 5, 2025
Écluse Wines begins a new chapter as Thibido Winery owners take the reins. Founders Pam and Steve Lock retire after 25 years, while both brands will now share the scenic Paso Robles tasting room and winery space.
Episode 41 · April 28, 2025
In this week’s Wine News Round-Up, Robert Mondavi’s brand struggles with identity as cheaper labels find new homes, while global wine sales hit their lowest point since 1961. Amid the chaos, Hollywood still can’t pour a glass properly, Silver Oak bets big on a CEO from the shoe world, and Gandona Estate reminds us what true Napa magic looks like.
Episode 40 · April 21, 2025
California wine may be losing ground, but the state isn’t drinking less—just differently, with spirits now leading the way. Meanwhile, across the globe, winemakers are embracing bold ideas, from Château de Beaucastel’s sustainable cellar to $2,500 Syrah-Shiraz collabs and the rise of gleaming glass wineglobes.
Episode 39 · April 14, 2025
Tariffs are shaking up the wine world—prices are rising, choices are shrinking, and U.S. consumers may be the biggest losers. While sake sales might surge and beer lovers have reason to smile, the fallout is hitting EU producers, U.S. wineries, and even South Africa with serious consequences.
Episode 38 · April 7, 2025
Argentina’s top wine brand Catena is in the spotlight—earning the title of World’s Most Admired Wine Brand 2025 while simultaneously pulling out of the Irish market over controversial new alcohol warning labels. Meanwhile, Mexico’s wine scene is heating up, with Querétaro earning IGP status and L.A. Cetto showcasing just how good Baja Nebbiolo can be.
Episode 37 · March 31, 2025
From cutting-edge vineyard automation to the cultural celebration of wine, this week’s round-up covers innovation, advocacy, and a touch of controversy. Catch up on Meghan Zobeck’s new role at Opus One, a Napa County policy that has small wineries on edge, and why Millennials may rewrite the collector’s wine canon.
Episode 36 · March 24, 2025
From AI in the vineyards to a chance to win a signed copy of The Wine Bible. We’re talking tariff drama, Chile’s wine glow-up, sustainable sips, and a killer Petite Sirah you’ll want to decant ASAP.
Episode 35 · March 17, 2025
Napa’s small wineries scored a temporary victory as the First District Court of Appeal issued a stay against Napa County’s injunction on Hoopes Winery, signaling potential reversals ahead. Meanwhile, industry giant Constellation considers selling off parts of its wine portfolio amid declining sales, Trump’s tariffs threaten California wineries’ export market, and Chianti Classico remains a budget-friendly standout.
Episode 34 · March 10, 2025
From luxury resorts and rustic haciendas to bold wineries and unforgettable dining experiences, this guide highlights the best of Baja California’s Valle de Guadalupe and beyond.
Episode 33 · March 3, 2025
This week’s wine news covers a Napa winery’s legal woes, Antinori’s latest vineyard acquisition, and vandals destroying experimental vines in Italy. Plus, we dive into the eye-contact-toasting craze, highlight Trefethen’s stellar Cabernet, and review Joël Robuchon in Vegas—luxurious, pricey, and maybe not worth a repeat visit.
Episode 32 · February 24, 2025
In today's Wine News Round-Up, the W.H.O. calls for mandatory cancer warnings on alcohol amid contrasting NASEM findings. Decanter questions label impact. Bordeaux vintages disappoint while Napa Cabs shine. Industry trends reveal shifting consumer habits. Foxen Vineyard and Momoyama offer standout experiences in wine and dining. Defining today’s dynamic market.
Episode 31 · February 17, 2025
Spanish and Vietnamese police, with Europol and Interpol, dismantled a fake Rioja wine ring, thanks to a Spanish tourist’s sharp eye. Meanwhile, Simon J Woolf questions the value of wine scores, California reports its lightest grape crush in 20 years, U.S. winery numbers decline slightly, and Coursey Graves shines in Sonoma.
Episode 30 · February 10, 2025
The California wine industry braces for potential labor shortages amid immigration policy shifts, while young consumers show untapped wine interest. Explore wine fridge pricing, service red flags, and Honrama Cellars’ inspiring legacy. Plus, savor Michelin-starred Rebel Omakase’s unforgettable 20+ course experience—though corkage is off the table.
Episode 29 · February 3, 2025
The latest wine industry updates highlight key debates and trends, from tariff discussions to shifting consumer habits. While U.S. winemakers push for fairer competition against low-cost imports, wine lovers can expect great deals in the coming years as sales trends shift and new winemakers rise to prominence.
Episode 28 · January 27, 2025
From a winery caught rebranding Franzia to a biotech breakthrough using chestnut blossoms as a sulfite substitute, the wine world is full of surprises. Add in cross-border grape collaborations, legal challenges over alcohol and cancer, and a spotlight on Halter Ranch Vineyard, and there’s plenty to pour over this week!
Episode 27 · January 20, 2025
From Châteauneuf-du-Pape's fiery rejection of Dry January to dogs sniffing out vineyard pests in California, the wine world never ceases to surprise. Whether it’s crowd reviews gaining credibility or a $26 Zinfandel claiming top value honors, there’s always something new to raise a glass to.
Episode 26 · January 13, 2025
Explore Butterfly’s $1.95B Duckhorn acquisition, SF’s red wine slump, James Suckling’s top Chinese wines, Bordeaux’s rise in alcohol-free wine, Gruet Winery’s sparkling gem in New Mexico, and Sedona’s Hideaway House—a must-visit with no corkage allowed!
Episode 25 · January 6, 2025
This week's wine highlights span the enduring heritage of Sonoma County's century-old vineyards, an accessible guide to budget-friendly sparkling wines, the anticipation of the Garagiste Wine Festival's boutique offerings, a critical look at the universal wine glass, and a spotlight on Texas's Spicewood Vineyards, which blends local terroir with innovative winemaking.
Episode 24 · December 30, 2024
Robb Report critiques allocation systems as outdated and frustrating for consumers eager to purchase wine directly, while Food & Wine highlights Armenia’s revival as a producer of distinctive high-altitude wines. Meanwhile, Somm TV expands wine education with over 400 hours of exclusive content, and a new NASEM report affirms the health benefits of moderate drinking.
Episode 23 · December 23, 2024
From the screw cap versus cork debate to angry French winemakers and Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 list, this episode is packed with the latest wine news. We also highlight the historic Gundlach Bundschu Winery in Sonoma and the vibrant flavors of Candé Restaurante in Cartagena, Colombia.
Episode 22 · December 16, 2024
From somm-approved wine lists to snob-free courses and even popcorn-pairing tips, this week's Wine News Round-Up offers a sip of everything—from buying a winery in Paso Robles to discovering award-winning wines from unexpected places like Arizona.
Episode 21 · December 9, 2024
From grape name variations around the world to a bold vineyard restructuring in France, this week’s wine news spans education and adaptation. Discover how Sideways reshaped wine preferences, the challenges posed by smoke taint in Santa Barbara, and a stellar winery and restaurant you need to visit.
Episode 20 · December 2, 2024
From hosting blind tasting parties and exploring Valle de Guadalupe’s rising wine scene to the unexpected surge in white wine demand this winter, the wine world is buzzing with excitement. Whether it’s gifting ideas, game nights, or dining at Baja’s culinary gem ‘Emat, there’s something for every wine enthusiast to savor.
Episode 19 · November 25, 2024
Viña Don Melchor’s 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Puente Alto claims the top spot on Wine Spectator’s Top 10 Wines of 2024, earning 96 points with a retail price of $175—a significant benchmark for Chilean wines. Meanwhile, VinePair highlights affordability in its 50 Best Wines of 2024, with the $40 Arnot-Roberts Sonoma Coast Syrah taking the #1 position.
Episode 18 · November 18, 2024
The California wine industry faces significant challenges as declining consumer spending, excess inventory, and an overabundance of grapes from the 2024 harvest create economic strain. However, experts predict a turnaround by 2026, with supply and demand expected to rebalance and opportunities for consumers to find high-quality wines at reduced prices in the interim.
Episode 17 · November 11, 2024
Vienna, Austria, stands out as a unique wine city, rivaling the global giants of London and Paris. Meanwhile, Wine Enthusiast's 2024 Wine Region of the Year award highlights Mendocino County's commitment to sustainability, urging wine lovers to look beyond Napa and explore the region's distinct offerings in Anderson Valley.
Episode 16 · November 4, 2024
Amadio Wines' 2021 Reserve Range Sebastien’s Cabernet Sauvignon from Adelaide Hills has claimed the prestigious title of “Best Cabernet Sauvignon in the World” at the AWC Vienna 2024. This accolade is especially significant, as nearly 11,000 wines were anonymously judged by an international panel, making Amadio’s victory a remarkable win for Australian winemaking on a global stage.
Episode 15 · October 28, 2024
Authorities in Italy and France broke up a wine counterfeiting ring, seizing counterfeit Grand Cru wines, luxury items, and cash, marking one of the largest wine fraud busts to date. In other news, Lebanon’s IXSIR winery continues its harvest despite regional conflict, while Texas’s Calais Winery and Arizona’s Flying Leap Vineyards impress with unique, terroir-driven wines.
Episode 14 · October 21, 2024
A Sonoma winemaker’s ad comparing sugar levels in his wine to Meiomi's led to a legal challenge from Meiomi’s parent company, Constellation Brands. Meanwhile, Italian red wines like Sagrantino and Tannat may offer relief from headaches, and U.S. wine sales see a shift with declines in lower-priced bottles but growth in Prosecco and premium wines.
Episode 13 · October 14, 2024
Master Sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson's new YouTube series, "Quench," debuts October 16, offering insights on Napa's top grape varieties, while Oregon's Syrah is highlighted for its elegance and purity. In France, the theft of Jura winemaker Paul Bonin's harvest exacerbates an already challenging season. Meanwhile, Akash Winery is gaining attention in Temecula, and Las Vegas’ Lotus of Siam impresses with its wine list and authentic Northern Thai cuisine.
Episode 12 · October 7, 2024
California's wine industry faces challenges as contracts for grape sales are not being renewed, leaving many grapes unsold or wasted, especially red varieties in the Central Valley. Meanwhile, Napa's high-end wines continue to rise in price, with some bottles now exceeding $4,000.
Episode 11 · September 30, 2024
This November, Burgundy enthusiasts have a unique chance to bid on a piece of wine history as the region’s iconic vineyard signs are set to be auctioned. Organized by the Bourgogne Wine Board, the auction will include signage from esteemed grands crus like Chambertin and Bâtard-Montrachet, offering collectors the perfect décor for their wine cellars or homes.
Episode 10 · September 23, 2024
In the wine world, debates about perfect wine scores are always lively, and Oliver Styles dives headfirst into the topic in Wine-Searcher's latest article. He humorously dismantles the need for precise rankings, arguing that all great wines are, after all, great—with only "fractional wobbles" in their levels of greatness, making us question the rigidity of traditional wine scoring systems.
Episode 9 · September 16, 2024
This week’s wine news highlights sommeliers' picks for the best budget-friendly Cabernet Sauvignons, including Château Aney Haut-Médoc and Matthiasson Cab. Meanwhile, climate change continues to challenge wineries, pushing them to explore heat-resistant grape varieties, and Paul Hobbs Winery secures a perfect '100 points' for its 2021 Coombsville Cabernet Sauvignon.
Episode 8 · September 9, 2024
White wines like Pino Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chenin Blanc are surging in popularity, challenging Cabernet's long-held dominance in California. Sommeliers wish for more love for underrated wines like Cabernet Franc and Italian Rosato.
Episode 7 · September 2, 2024
The Global Chenin Blanc Masters 2024 showcased the finest Chenin Blanc wines, with top selections priced between $20 to $90 USD, sure to delight any wine lover. Additionally, winemakers are increasingly pampering their yeasts, believing that a little extra care, even in the form of Gregorian chants, can elevate the wine's quality.
Episode 6 · August 26, 2024
Marketers are bullish on TikTok's potential to reach new wine audiences, with 40% of wine drinkers using the platform more than once a week, according to a 2024 Wine Market Council study. Meanwhile, the industry is pushing back against overhyped trends like "Natural" wines and heavy wine bottles, calling for more sustainable and standardized practices.
Episode 5 · August 19, 2024
Explore the world of high-end wine, from the $3,705 Screaming Eagle Sauvignon Blanc to Aldi's clever wine stunt exposing how presentation can alter perceptions. Dive into the costs of opening a Napa tasting room, discover the rising quality of English still wines, and check out Paso Robles' Écluse Wines and the Cello Ristorante & Bar with its reasonable corkage fee.
Episode 4 · August 12, 2024
Explore the latest in the wine world, from the top wine lists in Las Vegas to the innovative wine delivery systems and new wine regions like Easter Island and Mâconnais. Dive into how French winemakers are battling mildew and discover must-visit wine spots that might surprise you.
Episode 3 · July 29, 2024
California's Vintage Wine Estates has filed for bankruptcy, driven by a severe drop in stock value and significant debt, with the former Cosentino Winery being sold to entrepreneur Brion Wise for $10.5 million. Meanwhile, vineyard workers face financial strain from extreme heat, Congress questions the selection of anti-alcohol advocates for US dietary guidelines, and Sicilian winemakers view Mount Etna's eruptions as beneficial for vineyard soil despite the dramatic volcanic activity.
Episode 2 · July 22, 2024
Pernod Ricard is divesting most of its wine brands, including Jacobs Creek and Campo Viejo, to focus on its core spirits business, while new ventures and closures in the wine industry highlight shifting trends and challenges.
Episode 1 · July 15, 2024
Darioush Winery has expanded its Napa Valley holdings by purchasing a 21-acre vineyard near Yountville for approximately $10 million, adding to its now 65 vineyard acres in the region. Meanwhile, a significant portion of California's 2024 wine grape harvest faces the threat of going to waste due to an economic downturn and a lack of buyers, exacerbating the industry's ongoing challenges.
July 8, 2024
CMB Wines has acquired the historic Foppiano Winery and Vineyards in Healdsburg, CA, aiming to preserve its legacy while integrating it into the Martin Ray portfolio and investing in its future growth.
July 1, 2024
Franz Haas, a renowned Italian wine producer, has sued Winebow for allegedly causing over $30 million in damages by interfering with its business relationships and misrepresenting its distribution rights.
June 24, 2024
The Bouygues family of Château Montrose fame extends their winemaking legacy beyond France with the acquisition of Virginia's RdV Vineyards, now rebranded as Lost Mountain, aiming to enhance its stature in the American wine scene.
June 17, 2024
Amid rebranding efforts like E & J Gallo's shift to high-quality wines, regulatory collaborations to prevent underage alcohol exposure, and changing grape values in Napa Valley, the US wine industry faces environmental challenges and innovation, exemplified by the reopening of Signorello Estate with fireproof features and luxury experiences.
June 10, 2024
Domaine Faiveley's majority acquisition of Williams Selyem highlights significant shifts in the wine industry, amid declining Bordeaux vineyard values, rising Chablis demand in the USA, regulatory actions against Southern Glazer's, and innovative sustainability practices in Napa Valley.
June 3, 2024
Amid acquisitions like Horse Heaven Wine Company's purchase of Ste. Michelle's Prosser facility, the US wine industry is launching innovative campaigns to engage younger consumers, while facing challenges such as Vintage Wine Estates' financial struggles and severe weather impacts on French vineyards.
May 27, 2024
Ram's Gate Winery's surprising acquisition by O'Neill Vintners & Distillers signals a bold move into the luxury wine market, reflecting broader industry trends towards high-end and sustainable wine production.
May 20, 2024
Amidst California's wine industry challenges, a recent report forecasts a 10% market expansion over the next decade, signaling a potential resurgence for wineries grappling with shifting consumer preferences. Despite pandemic-induced sales downturns and the rise of alternative beverages, boutique wineries and premium labels stand poised to capture emerging market trends, fostering cautious optimism for the sector's renewal and growth.
May 13, 2024
In New York City, restaurant wine prices have skyrocketed, with even basic bottles now starting at $80, marking a significant shift over the past decade, exacerbated by the pandemic. This inflation is attributed to increased production costs and heightened expenses, leading patrons to reconsider their wine choices and opt for cocktails perceived as offering better value.
May 6, 2024
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates debuts Chateau Ste. Michelle LIGHT, a lighter Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc tailored for health-conscious consumers, showcasing reduced sugar levels and lower alcohol content while maintaining the quality of Washington state grapes. Concurrently, the Wine Institute announces a new communications initiative to educate consumers and policymakers about wine's unique attributes amid shifting public health policies and intensified competition.
April 29, 2024
The wine industry is undergoing diverse changes, including the exploration of new grape varieties like Grüner Veltliner in Pennsylvania, challenges faced by the Cava industry amidst drought and regulatory shifts, and the launch of Luminary Napa Valley wine club, highlighting innovation and adaptation within the sector.
April 22, 2024
Ackley Brands expands wine portfolio, Napa Valley faces regulatory tensions, AI transforms viticulture, Accolade Wines manages oversupply, South African growers adapt to climate change, and Rhône Valley producers prioritize sustainability in global wine production.
April 15, 2024
Recent acquisitions in the wine industry include Domaine Gauby and Roc des Anges changing ownership, Full Glass Wine securing $14 million in funding and acquiring Bright Cellars, and Luc and Clémence Planty taking over Château de Malle, reflecting significant shifts and expansions in the market.
April 8, 2024
The Australian wine industry faces US market decline amid Chinese tariff hopes, while New Zealand navigates international acquisitions and Maori involvement, echoing global wine trends.
April 1, 2024
Trinchero Family Estates collaborates with David Abreu to globalize their new wine brand, amidst industry adaptations to global warming and changing market dynamics like China lifting Australian wine tariffs.
March 25, 2024
James Hall is repurchasing Patz & Hall Winery from Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, signaling a return to its roots and emphasizing Hall's commitment to its quality. Meanwhile, new USDA regulations are causing confusion among small organic wine importers, while Sauvignon Blanc shows growth in both sales value and volume in the US wine market.
March 18, 2024
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January 1, 2024
2023 was a year etched in acquisitions, weather woes, and AI ascendance. But as the dust settles, anticipation swirls for what 2024 holds. Buckle up, wine lovers, we’re going to...
December 25, 2023
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