Champagne isn’t just a beverage, it’s a cultural symbol, a product of place, and increasingly, a lens into the shifting climate of our time. Peter Liem, one of the world’s most respected voices on Champagne, brings rare insight into the region’s transformation over the past two decades. A James Beard Award–winning author and founder of ChampagneGuide.net, Liem has dedicated his career to chronicling the nuance and evolution of the region.

From demystifying the myth of Dom Pérignon to tracing Champagne’s evolution amidst climate change, this conversation is a masterclass in nuance. Liem explores why terroir has taken center stage, how grower Champagne reshaped the market, and what the future holds for this iconic wine, including the role of dosage, the rise of still wines, and the region’s ongoing identity shift.

Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned wine lover, this episode deepens your understanding of Champagne as both a tradition and an ever-evolving craft.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Dom Pérignon was not the inventor of sparkling wine.
• Champagne has arguably the longest history of traditional method sparkling wine.
• The perception of Champagne has evolved significantly in the last 20 years.
• Climate change is affecting harvest times and wine styles in Champagne.
• Producers are adapting to climate change by exploring new viticultural practices.
• The concept of terroir has become much more important in Champagne winemaking.
• Dosage in Champagne is crucial for enhancing expression, not just balancing acidity.
• The rise of grower Champagne has changed the landscape of the market.
• Champagne is now producing more still wines, but sparkling remains dominant.
• The future of Champagne may involve experimenting with different grape varieties.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. 

Backend Tags:

Peter Liem, Champagne podcast, ChampagneGuide.net, Dom Pérignon myth, grower Champagne, Champagne terroir, sparkling wine history, James Beard Award wine, climate change and wine, Champagne dosage, still Champagne wines, Champagne evolution, Champagne education, wine podcast episode, Champagne wine regions, wine expert interview, traditional method sparkling, Champagne wine trends, viticulture in Champagne

What does it take to earn the Master Sommelier pin? Max Kast pulls back the curtain on the intense journey, from the pressures of blind tasting to the emotional highs and lows of fine wine service. He reflects on the 2018 Court of Master Sommeliers scandal, how it reshaped the industry, and why integrity remains his guiding principle.

In this episode of Wine Centric, Max shares the path that led him from a childhood as one of nine children of German immigrants to becoming Director of BOND Winery in Napa Valley. It’s a conversation about mastery, humility, and a lifelong respect for the vine.

Listeners will love Max’s reflections on:

• The mindset behind becoming a Master Sommelier
• Does Max have a wine Kryptonite?
• The philosophy and precision behind BOND Winery’s vineyard expression
• The two people (dead or alive) he’d love to share a bottle with and the wine he’d pour

This is more than a conversation about wine: it’s a masterclass in passion, perseverance, and purpose.

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey to Master Sommelier

10:15 The Scandal and Its Aftermath

20:31 The Mindset of a Sommelier

32:25 Evolving Perspectives on Wine Tasting

35:23 The Evolution of Wine in California

38:08 Personal Journey: From Detroit to Missoula

41:17 The Path to Becoming a Wine Director

44:30 Building a Wine Program: Challenges and Triumphs

49:58 Transitioning to Wine Imports

52:54 Current Role at Bond Winery: A New Chapter

🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. 

Travel to Germany’s legendary Mosel Valley with Johannes Selbach — the heart and mind behind Selbach-Oster and J. & H. Selbach wines. With roots tracing back to the 1600s, Johannes opens up about what it means to carry a family legacy while staying true to nature and terroir.

From the dramatic steep vineyards blanketed in slate to spontaneous fermentations and aging in traditional Fuder barrels, we explore the elements that shape Mosel’s unmistakable Riesling profile. Johannes breaks down the nuances of dry versus sweet styles, why site expression matters, and how history and humility guide his craft.
From preserving heritage to empowering the next generation, Johannes offers insight into how great wines are born from great places — and a deep respect for them.

Key Points

• The Selbach family’s 400+ years of history in the Mosel Valley
• How Johannes balances tradition with modern winemaking practices
• The unique terroir of the Mosel: slate soils, steep vineyards, river influence
• Selbach-Oster’s philosophy: minimal intervention, vineyard-driven wines
• Understanding Riesling styles — from bone-dry to lusciously sweet
• Why Riesling is misunderstood and how it pairs with food
• Climate change and its impact on recent Mosel vintages
• The evolution of the U.S. market and Selbach-Oster’s strong American ties
• Memorable stories from standout vintages and family vineyards
• Johannes’s perspective on the future of German wine and Riesling’s global role

🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. 

Matthew Weiss hosts a once-in-a-generation conversation with two of American wine’s most influential voices: Tim Mondavi, owner of Continuum Estate, architect of Napa Valley’s modern era, and his son Carlo Mondavi, co-owner of RAEN Winery, a visionary championing sustainable farming and fine wine’s future.

This unfiltered interview spans four generations of winemaking. Tim recounts his pivotal role as head winemaker at Robert Mondavi Winery, shaping Napa’s appellation system and elevating California wines globally. He shares how the founding of Continuum Estate became a deeply personal expression of family, land, and legacy.

Carlo, co-founder of RAEN Winery, brings a dynamic perspective from Sonoma’s rugged coastline. He delves into Pinot Noir terroir, biodiversity beyond organics, and his work with Monarch Tractor to lead winegrowing into the climate-conscious age.

Together, they speak candidly about the family rift that changed the Mondavi legacy, the power of harvest season, and what’s next for California wines.

🍷 North Carolina Listeners — Don’t miss the exclusive RAEN & Continuum wine dinner at Fearrington House on September 25, 2025. Experience their wines paired with a seasonal tasting menu in an unforgettable evening of story and flavor. Reserve your seat now → [https://fearrington.com/events/raen-continuum-wine-dinner-september-25-2025/]

📍 Key Moments:

• The definitive Mondavi conversation: four generations of wine
• The family rift: what divided them—and what still binds
• Napa’s transformation through Tim’s winemaking lens
• Why Carlo farms beyond organic and believes in biodiversity
• Cabernet Franc’s rising influence in Napa blends
• The purpose behind Continuum and RAEN
• Wine as storytelling, legacy, and a way of life

Chapters:
00:00 – Opening Reflections on the Mondavi Legacy
02:52 – Harvest Realities: Timing, Tension & Triumph
05:14 – Family Rift: What Divided, and What Endures
07:53 – Napa’s Transformation Through the Mondavi Lens
10:08 – Appellations as a Benchmark for Excellence
12:22 – What's Next for California Wines
15:03 – Continuum and RAEN: Legacy Meets Innovation
17:49 – The Role of Cabernet Franc
20:26 – Tradition, Storytelling, and Wine Culture
23:17 – Harvest Meals That Became Memories
25:49 – The Next Generation: Chiara Mondavi Steps Forward
28:22 – Reflections and Future Visions

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.
🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:

▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/

▪️Heather Donovan Real Estate: https://heatherdhomes.com/

#WineCentricShow #MondaviLegacy #NapaValleyWines #WineCulture #CabernetFranc #ContinuumEstate #RAENWines #CaliforniaWine #WinePodcast #WineHistory #monarchtractor

What makes Chile one of the most captivating, and underestimated, places to make wine? Andrea Leon, Technical Director at Lapostolle and Clos Apalta, brings 20+ years of winemaking experience to the mic to answer that question and more.

In this episode, Andrea shares her remarkable journey from studying oenology and economics in Santiago to leading two of South America's most iconic wineries. She unpacks the raw beauty and extremes of Chilean terroir, the international odyssey of Carmenere, and what it really takes to craft a 100-point wine.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply wine-curious, this episode offers a deeply personal look into the soul of Chilean wine.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• The historic roots and modern rise of Chilean wine
• Why Carmenere is Chile’s misunderstood signature grape
• How Andrea helped position Lapostolle as a global leader
• The patient art and science behind winemaking
• What makes the Colchagua Valley so distinctive
• How Chilean Sauvignon Blanc holds its own next to New Zealand

🎙️ Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just getting started, this episode invites you to discover wine as a story of place, people, and passion.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. 

#AndreaLeon #Lapostolle #ClosApalta #ChileanWine #Carmenere #WinePodcast #WineCentricShow #ColchaguaValley #Terroir #SauvignonBlanc

Step into Alsace with Mélanie Pfister — an eighth-generation winemaker redefining what it means to honor tradition while forging a modern path. From the cellar to the vineyard, Mélanie shares how she blends precision, sustainability, and vision at her family domaine.

We explore everything from dry Riesling and Alsace Pinot Noir to sustainability, climate adaptation, and the rising influence of women in wine. This episode is a deep dive into terroir-driven winemaking and the personal evolution behind the label.

📌 In This Episode:

• Why Alsace Riesling isn’t sweet — myth, busted
• How Mélanie Pfister crafted her first orange wine
• Alsace Pinot Noir’s rise in a warming climate
• From family legacy to biodynamics: her sustainability journey
• Women winemakers changing the face of wine

🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. 

#AlsaceWine #WomenInWine #DryRiesling #WinePodcast #SustainableWine #NaturalWine #PinotNoir #WineCentricShow
Melanie Pfister, Domaine Mélanie Pfister, Alsace wine, French wine, Winemaker interview, Women in wine, Organic winemaking, Biodynamic wine, Sustainable viticulture, Natural wine, Dry Riesling, Orange wine, Pinot Noir Alsace, Climate change wine, Terroir driven wine, Wine podcast, Wine Centric Show, Wine YouTube channel, Wine education, Matt Weiss

What does it take to lead one of Napa Valley’s most iconic wineries into the future? In this episode of The Wine Centric Show, Maya Dalla Valle — second-generation winemaker at Dalla Valle Vineyards — shares her journey from growing up among Napa legends to shaping the next chapter of her family’s legacy.

We cover it all: the impact of climate change on vineyard practices, the role of Cabernet Franc in the world-class blends, and a peek into life with her husband, a Master Sommelier.

If you love Napa Cabernet Souvignon, Cabernet Franc, or stories about wine, legacy, and innovation, this conversation is for you.

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate. 

  #MayaDallaValle #NapaValley #DallaValleVineyards #CabernetFranc #Winemaking #NapaWine #WineIndustry #ClimateChangeWine #FamilyLegacyWine #WineBusiness #NapaCabernetFranc #2020VintageWine #WinePodcast #WineInterview #NapaValleyWinemaker #OrganicFarmingWine #WineStewardship #NapaWinemaking 

What makes Ridge Vineyards one of the most respected wineries in America?

In this episode, Wine Centric sits down with Ridge’s Head of Winemaking & COO, John Olney, and SVP of Global Sales, Michael Torino. Together, they reveal how Ridge built a global reputation while staying deeply rooted in craft, place, and principle.

We get into:

• What “non-interventional” winemaking really means
• The role of corporate ownership—without losing authenticity
• Why vineyard practices matter more than any tech
• How Ridge builds community through the Sommelier Symposium
• Lessons from decades of aging and legacy vintages

For decades, Ridge has defined what great American wine should be. Their consistency, integrity, and deep-rooted commitment to place helped put California on the global wine map.

Whether you're a sommelier, winemaker, or just a fan of iconic American wine, this episode offers an inside look at one of the most respected names in the industry

00:00 Jumping Right In: Tough Questions for Wine Experts

00:20 Introducing the Titans of Ridge Vineyards

01:43 Debating America's Top Wineries

04:37 The Legacy and Philosophy of Ridge Vineyards

05:24 Challenges and Variations in Winemaking

08:17 Sales and Production: A Harmonious Relationship

13:22 Corporate Ownership and Quality Commitment

16:58 Exploring Ridge's Signature Wines

24:10 The Influence of French Winemaking on Ridge

27:23 Exploring Natural Winemaking

27:54 Challenges and Techniques in Fermentation

29:06 Ridge's Unique Approach to Winemaking

33:33 The Santa Cruz Mountains Project

36:41 Malolactic Fermentation Explained

38:13 The Role of American Oak in Ridge Wines

41:33 Ridge's Tasting Trials and Team Dynamics

42:47 Building Relationships with Sommeliers

51:25 Memorable Moments with Paul Draper

54:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

At just 30, Ilaria Felluga is leading not one—but two—of Friuli’s most respected wineries: Marco Felluga and Russiz Superiore. After the sudden loss of her father and grandfather, she stepped into a legacy shaped by six generations of winemakers.

In this episode of The Wine Centric Show, Ilaria shares how she’s carrying forward the family tradition, while championing Collio—Italy’s third officially recognized wine consortium after Chianti and Barolo. Despite its rich terroir and heritage, Collio remains one of the most underrated regions in Italian wine.

We talk about:

• What makes Friuli and Collio unique in Italian winemaking
• The Adriatic Sea’s influence on the region’s microclimate
• Why more people should be drinking wines from Friuli
• The cultural connection between food, family, and wine
• The pressure (and privilege) of inheriting a multigenerational legacy
• Leading two wineries as a young female in Italian wine

Whether you're a wine lover, storyteller, or legacy-builder, this is a conversation not to miss.

🎧 Listen now and follow The Wine Centric Show for more stories behind the bottle.

What happens when an NFL quarterback becomes a wine entrepreneur? Drew Bledsoe shares the wine that changed everything—the 1998 Viader—and the full-circle moment he had with its winemaker.

He discusses his focus on integrity in the cellar, the role geology plays in his approach, and the team-first mindset behind his estate-driven Washington wines.

In this episode, we cover:

    •    The injury that changed his career

    •    How family shaped his next chapter

    •    Building Doubleback, Bledsoe | McDaniels, and Bledsoe Family Wineries

    •    An idea about two very different Josh McDaniels

    •    What he drank at the Tom Brady roast

    •    Which of his wines reminds him of today’s quarterbacks

This is a candid, grounded conversation about wine, identity, and life after football. Subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.

Step inside one of the world’s top wine tastings. In this bonus episode of The Wine Centric Show, we go behind the scenes at James Suckling’s Great Wines World 2025 in New York City.

We were the only podcast interviewing winemakers live on-site, including an exclusive conversation with James Suckling himself. Hear from leading producers representing Italy, Napa, Argentina, Spain, Chile, and more.

• 6,000+ attendees
• 55 wine regions
• 380 producers
• 800 wines
• 6,000 bottles poured 

Hear direct, unscripted conversations with global wine icons — and discover what sets this event apart.

Troy Revell is the only person to have led the wine programs at both The Umstead and Fearrington House—two of North Carolina’s premier hospitality destinations. In this episode, he shares his path from world champion ultimate frisbee player to award-winning wine director.

Fearrington House, one of the state’s few Relais & Châteaux properties, blends fine dining with a relaxed, family-owned atmosphere. Troy offers a thoughtful look at how he builds wine programs that are both world-class and approachable.

We discuss:

• The guest experience at The Umstead vs. Fearrington House
• How to make wine more welcoming without compromising quality
• The benefits of blending restaurant and retail wine expertise at Fearrington 
• What intentional hospitality looks like—and why it matters

Whether you're in the wine industry or just love great service, this episode is full of grounded, insider perspective.

👉 Follow The Wine Centric Show for more conversations with the people shaping wine and hospitality from the inside out.

In this special live episode of The Wine Centric Show, recorded at BBQ & Bubbly, award-winning winemaker, sommelier, and Maison Noir Wines founder André Hueston Mack leads a dynamic and unfiltered mini masterclass on sparkling wine.

You’ll learn: Why sparkling wine is one of the most versatile styles How smart pairings fight palate fatigue and elevate flavor Why personal taste matters more than tasting notes Stories from André’s time at The French Laundry & Per Se Bold insights from one of wine’s freshest voices
You’ll learn: Why sparkling wine is one of the most versatile styles How smart pairings fight palate fatigue and elevate flavor Why personal taste matters more than tasting notes Stories from André’s time at The French Laundry & Per Se Bold insights from one of wine’s freshest voices

Featured Wines:

• Jo Landron “Atmosphères” (France)
• Los Dos Cava Brut Rosé (Spain)
• Champagne Jeeper Blanc de Blancs (France)
• Zardetto Prosecco Superiore (Italy)

Whether you're a wine lover or just wine-curious, this conversation brings bubbles, brilliance, and bold flavor.

In this inaugural "in-studio" episode of The Wine Centric Show, we sit down with Brian Larky, founder of Dalla Terra Winery Direct. Larkey discusses his innovative wine import model that eliminates the traditional three-tier system by selling directly to importer-distributors. 

Drawing on decades of experience, including his time making wines in Italy and working with renowned estates like Ca’ del Bosco, Larky provides insights into the importance of transparent, sustainable business relationships in the wine industry. 

Learn how Della Terra champions Italian wines, spirits, and culture across the United States, fostering deep connections between producers, importers, and consumers.

00:00 Introduction to the Wine Centric Show

00:40 Meet Brian Larky: The Maverick of Wine

00:57 Revolutionary Wine Import Model

01:31 Journey from UC Davis to Italy

02:54 The Dalla Terra Business Model

05:08 Building Relationships in the Wine Industry

19:16 The Impact of Tariffs on Wine Imports

26:19 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this episode of The Wine Centric Show, we chat with Dan Petroski, the revered winemaker behind Massican Wines in Napa Valley. Dan shares his journey from playing football at Columbia to becoming a winemaking iconoclast. We delve into his unique approach to crafting the only all-white wine winery in Napa Valley, his experiences with the wine industry, and how his football background shapes his work ethic. Dan also talks about the challenges of scaling a winery, the impact of environmental changes on viticulture, and his ambitious plans for Massican Wines under the Gallo family. Whether you're an oenophile or new to wine, this conversation will give you insightful and relatable perspectives on the wine world. Tune in for an engaging dialogue about passion, practicality, and pushing the boundaries in winemaking.

00:00 Welcome to the Wine Centric Show

00:52 Dan's Football Journey

02:57 Starting a White Wine Winery in Napa Valley

06:33 The Business of Winemaking

09:50 BBQ and Bubbly Event

12:03 Meeting Joe Gallo

21:22 Wine Culture: Europe vs. America

28:17 Exploring Aromatized Beverages

28:48 The Water Movement and Market Potential

29:54 Challenges in the Wine Industry

30:39 Innovative Ideas and Business Strategies

31:35 The Appeal of Italian Wines

38:20 Climate Change and Wine Production

47:15 Personal Reflections and Family Impact

49:43 Wine and Publishing: A Unique Connection

In this episode of Wine Centric, host Matthew Weiss sits down with Aldo Sohm, one of the world’s most celebrated sommeliers and the Wine Director at the iconic Le Bernardin in New York City. From cycling through vineyards to curating one of the most prestigious wine programs on the planet, Aldo shares what it takes to excel at the top of the hospitality world.

You’ll hear Aldo’s remarkable journey from Austria to NYC, his insights on wine pairing, hospitality culture, and how he balances discipline, health, and humility in an industry known for ego and excess. He also opens up about memorable moments—like serving critics under pressure—and why great wine service always starts with kindness.

Whether you're a sommelier, a wine enthusiast, or someone who loves behind-the-scenes stories of excellence, this conversation is packed with inspiration and real-world wisdom.

🔑 Topics Covered:

• Becoming a world-class sommelier
• The evolution of hospitality and ego in fine dining
• Wine pairing with music and mood
• Health, cycling, and sustainable routines
• Wine tasting as both art and science
• Mentorship, training, and performing at the highest level

📍 Follow & Subscribe for more deep dives with top names in wine, hospitality, and culinary culture.
Aldo Sohm interview

Top sommeliers in the world

Le Bernardin Wine Director

Aldo Sohm wine bar

What does a sommelier do

Fine dining hospitality insights

Wine pairing techniques

Wine tasting like a pro

Sommelier career path

NYC wine scene

Austrian sommeliers in NYC

How to become a sommelier

Wine and music pairing

In this entertaining episode of Wine Centric, host Matthew Weiss sits down with Amanda McCrossin, also known as Sommvivant, a dynamic and relatable voice in the wine world. From an aspiring actress to one of America's leading wine personalities, Amanda shares her unexpected path into the wine industry, how she faked her way into her first wine job, and why she chose wine over acting.

You'll hear Amanda dive into the art of wine pairing, the resurgence of Moscato D'Asti, and her favorite food & wine mashups (yes, Zinfandel and BBQ!). With her down-to-earth vibe and deep knowledge, Amanda makes the complex world of wine feel fun, approachable, and inspiring—whether you're a seasoned sommelier or just wine-curious.

Matthew Weiss sits down with the legendary Dr. Laura Catena to explore the fascinating world of Argentine Chardonnay, the Catena family’s winemaking legacy, and the intersection of wine, wellness, and culture. Laura shares her journey from medicine to viticulture, the science behind terroir, and why old vines hold a special place in winemaking. They also dive into the complexities of wine pricing, the health benefits of moderate consumption, and the evolving drinking habits of younger generations. Plus, Laura reveals her personal wellness routines and thoughts on celebrity wine pairings.

Key Takeaways:
🍷 Why Argentine Chardonnay is gaining global recognition
💪 The role of wellness—yes, even Pilates—in a winemaker’s life
🌱 How old vines contribute to wine quality and sustainability
💰 What really determines the price of a bottle of wine
❤️ The surprising health benefits of moderate wine consumption

Tune in for an insightful, inspiring, and wine-filled conversation with one of the most influential voices in the industry! 🍇✨

Author, wine importer and *Suspended Master Sommelier Jane Lopes sits down for an in-depth conversation about her journey through the wine world. From her early days in acting to becoming a leading voice in Australian wine, Jane shares insights into her experiences at world-renowned restaurants like Attica and Eleven Madison Park. They explore the importance of mental health in the industry, the challenges women face in the wine world, and the mission behind Jane’s import business, Legend. Along the way, they discuss The Bear, Unreasonable Hospitality, and why Tasmanian Chardonnay is a must-try for Chablis lovers. Tune in for a compelling discussion on vulnerability, empowerment, and the evolving landscape of wine.

In this exhilarating episode of The Wine Centric Show, host Matthew Weiss sits down with the legendary Paul Hobbs, a true pioneer whose influence spans continents and generations in the wine industry. From his early days considering a medical career to becoming a world-renowned “flying winemaker,” Hobbs shares his journey of breaking barriers in winemaking across California, Argentina, and Armenia.

Discover how he helped elevate Malbec to global fame in Argentina, revived ancient winemaking traditions in Armenia, and played a pivotal role in shaping California’s fine wine reputation through his work with Opus One. Paul also discusses the challenges and opportunities of the global wine market, particularly in Asia, and teases potential future ventures in Eastern Europe and China.

Whether you're a wine connoisseur, industry professional, or simply fascinated by stories of innovation and perseverance, this episode offers invaluable insights into the art, science, and business of winemaking on a global scale.

Key Takeaways:

🍷 Paul Hobbs is a winemaking visionary whose impact spans multiple continents.
🌍 "Flying winemaking" allows him to bring expertise to diverse wine regions.
🍇 Malbec’s transformation in Argentina is one of the most significant wine success stories.
🏛️ Armenia’s ancient winemaking traditions are being revived through his efforts.
🍾 The Opus One collaboration changed how the world viewed California wines.
📈 The global wine market is evolving, with new opportunities emerging in Asia and beyond.

Tune in for a fascinating deep dive into the past, present, and future of winemaking, as seen through the eyes of one of its most influential figures.