🍷 Episode 81: Chenin Rose – A Rare Blush Beauty In this episode, we’re diving into one of the wine world’s lesser-known gems: Chenin Rose. Don’t let the name fool you — this isn’t rosé wine or just a pink version of Chenin Blanc. It’s a rare, pink-skinned mutation that offers up a gorgeous twist on a classic grape. Tune in to learn: - What makes Chenin Rose different from Chenin Blanc (hint: it’s more than just color) - Why it almost disappeared — and how curious winemakers are bringing it...

🥂 Episode 82: Palomino – Sherry’s Quiet Star In this episode, we're heading to sunny southern Spain to explore a grape that plays it cool and subtle — but is behind some of the boldest flavors in the wine world. Meet Palomino: understated, versatile, and totally fascinating. - Discover why Palomino is the backbone of sherry wines like fino, manzanilla, and amontillado - Learn how this grape thrives in the chalky albariza soils of Jerez - Hear how winemakers are reviving still Pa...

🍷 Episode 81: Pinot Meunier – Champagne’s Quiet Hero In today’s episode, we’re shining a light on Pinot Meunier—a grape that doesn’t always get top billing, but is an essential part of the Champagne story. From its frosted leaves to its juicy personality, Pinot Meunier is full of surprises, and we’re spilling all the sparkling secrets. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: - Why Pinot Meunier is the unsung hero of non-vintage Champagne - What “Meunier” actually means—and the poet...

🍇 Episode 79: Wine Tasting Basics: The 5 S’s and Beyond Ready to take your wine appreciation to the next level? In this episode, we’re diving into the how of wine — how to see, swirl, sniff, sip, and savor like a pro, even if you’re just getting started. Whether you’re at a tasting room, pouring at home, or dreaming of blind tastings, this is your guide to getting more out of every glass. Here’s what you’ll discover: What the 5 S’s actually mean — and how to apply them to any wineWhy wine col...

🍷 Episode 76: Cinsaut — Understated, Unforgettable, and a Little Flirty Description: Hey there, wine lovers! In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on Cinsaut — the quiet, charming red grape that’s often hiding in your favorite rosé or Rhône blend. But trust us, this grape’s got main-character energy once it steps out solo. Here’s what you’ll sip on during this episode: - Why Cinsaut is the ultimate team player (and sometimes underrated soloist) in the wine world - How it w...

🥂 Episode 77: Clairette Blanche – Elegance in Every Whisper Ever heard of Clairette Blanche? This soft-spoken white grape from southern France has been quietly making history for centuries — and today, it’s time to give it the love and spotlight it deserves. From its ancient roots to its surprisingly versatile flavor profile, this episode dives into what makes Clairette Blanche quietly extraordinary. What you’ll learn in this episode: - Why Clairette Blanche was once more famous than you’d...

🍷 Episode 78: Blaufränkisch – Spice, Soul & the Danube In this episode, we’re diving into one of Central Europe’s hidden treasures—an expressive red grape that brings elegance, structure, and a whole lot of personality to the glass. Meet Blaufränkisch, a grape with deep roots, vibrant acidity, and flavors that just won’t quit. You’ll learn: - Why some call it “Pinot Noir of the East” and others “Cabernet of the Danube” - Where it's grown best—and how Austria, Hungary, and e...

🥂 Episode 73: Verdejo – Spain’s Crisp Comeback Kid Hey there, wine friends! In this episode, we’re shining a light on a white grape that’s been flying under the radar for far too long — Verdejo. We’ll explore what makes it so special, from its refreshing flavor to its sun-drenched Spanish roots. Here’s what you’ll uncork in this episode: - Why Verdejo is the go-to white wine for seafood, sunny patios, and summer vibes - A peek into the Rueda region — Verdejo’s vibrant, high-altitude ...

🥂 Episode 71: Furmint – Hungary’s Citrus Soul Hey wine friends! In this episode, we’re popping the cork on a hidden gem of the white wine world—Furmint. It may not be a household name (yet), but this Hungarian native is complex, refreshing, and packed with history. Whether sweet or dry, Furmint has plenty to offer curious palates. - Discover why Furmint is the backbone of legendary Tokaji wines 🍯 - Learn how dry Furmint compares to Riesling and Chenin Blanc - Explore how volcani...

🥂 Episode 75: Ortega – Floral Whispers, Hidden Depths In this episode, we’re diving into the world of Ortega — a soft-spoken white grape with a beautifully expressive soul. Whether you’ve never heard of it or just haven’t explored it yet, Ortega is ready to charm your palate with floral aromas, silky texture, and surprising versatility. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: - How Ortega was born from Müller-Thurgau and Siegerrebe — and what that means for its flavor - The kind...

🍷 Episode 72: Montepulciano – Italy’s Juiciest Secret Hey there, vino adventurers! Today we’re uncorking a bottle of Montepulciano—the grape, not the town. It’s a bold, juicy red that’s flown under the radar outside of Italy, but back home, it’s a dinner table staple with serious character. In this episode, we’ll chat about: - The difference between the town of Montepulciano and the grape (yes, it’s confusing—we’ll clear it up) - Why Montepulciano thrives in Abruzzo and shines in everyday ...

🍷 Episode 70: Mencía – Spain’s Smoky Poet Ever heard of Mencía? If not, you’re in for a treat. In this episode, we’re popping the cork on one of Spain’s most quietly compelling red grapes — full of poetry, minerality, and unexpected charm. Whether you’re a total wine nerd or just love discovering hidden gems, Mencía’s a grape that deserves a spot in your glass. Here’s what you’ll uncork in this episode: - Where this under-the-radar grape truly shines (hint: misty mountain vineyards!) - Why...

🍷 Episode 74: Bobal – Bold Grape, Big Soul Hey there, wine lovers! In this episode, we're heading to the sun-drenched vineyards of eastern Spain to uncover the story behind one of the country’s most underrated red grapes: Bobal. From its rugged past to its exciting present, this bold, beautiful grape is finally getting its moment in the spotlight — and we’re here for it. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: - Why Bobal’s name comes from the Latin word for “bull” (hint: it’s as tough a...

🥂 Episode 69: Fiano – The Whispering White of Campania Hey there, wine lovers—ready to meet a grape that’s quietly captivating and charmingly complex? In this episode, we’re getting to know Fiano, a white variety from southern Italy that’s all elegance, texture, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re new to Fiano or a longtime fan, there’s something in here for everyone. Here’s what you’ll discover: - Why Fiano is one of Italy’s best-kept white wine secrets - How volcanic soils ...

🥂 Episode 65: Loureiro – The Jules Verde In this episode, we’re shining the spotlight on Loureiro — a beautifully aromatic white grape from northern Portugal that’s full of character, freshness, and floral charm. Whether you've heard of it or not, Loureiro is one of those hidden gems that's just waiting to surprise you. Here’s what you’ll discover: - What makes Loureiro stand out in the glass — from its laurel blossom aroma to citrusy zing - Why the cool, misty climate of northern Po...

🥂 Episode 66: Encruzado – The Crusade In this episode, we’re shining a light on Encruzado — a white grape from Portugal that’s been quietly stealing the show. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re in for a treat. We’re talking about bright citrus flavors, elegant textures, and a wine that’s just as happy fresh and crisp as it is rich and age-worthy. Here’s what you’ll learn: - What makes Encruzado a “shapeshifter” in the wine world - How the granite soils and cool nights of Portugal’s ...

🍷 Episode 64: Leon Millot – The Early Bird Get ready to meet a grape that’s bold, early-ripening, and full of hidden charm. In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on Leon Millot — a lesser-known hybrid variety with big energy, vibrant flavors, and a fascinating backstory. Whether you’ve never heard of it or you’ve sipped it once and weren’t sure what to make of it, this one’s for you. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why Leon Millot thrives in colder climates where other grapes struggle&nbs...

🍷 Episode 67: Tannat — Grit, Grapes & Glory In this episode, we’re diving deep into the bold and beautiful world of Tannat — a red grape with serious character, a rich backstory, and some pretty surprising destinations. From its earthy French roots to its juicy reboot in Uruguay, Tannat is a wine that demands attention and totally rewards your curiosity. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: - What makes Tannat one of the most tannic red grapes out there (seriously, it’s in the nam...

🥂 Episode 68: Grillo – Sea Breezes & Citrus Zing Ready to meet your new favorite white wine? In this episode, we’re heading to Sicily to explore Grillo, a zesty, coastal grape with lots of charm and a story worth telling. Whether you’ve never heard of it or already love it, Grillo’s citrusy snap and seaside soul might just win you over. Here’s what we’ll uncork in today’s episode: - How Grillo went from Marsala workhorse to dry wine darling - The surprising family tree behind this...

🥂 Episode 63: Verdicchio – A Lemon Fanfare In this episode, we’re heading to Italy’s Adriatic coast to shine a light on Verdicchio—a zesty, expressive white grape that doesn’t always get the fanfare, but absolutely deserves it. From lemony aromas to crisp minerality and unexpected aging potential, Verdicchio is your new favorite white wine waiting to happen. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Where Verdicchio grows best—and the difference between Castelli di Jesi and Matelica - What makes i...