Ripasso, aka "baby Amarone", is probably one of my favorite go to's when it comes to Valpolicella wine.  It is produced in Valpolicella located in Veneto, Italy.  Bertani has been around since the 1800s and today's ripasso consist of 70% Corvina Veronese, 20% Corvinone and 10% Rondinella. This one was aged 9 months in French oak and 3 months in the bottle.

Not only do I give you guys the spark notes version on how Ripasso is made but also get into the importance of not downplaying your success. Opportunities are always presented to us not only because we are ready for them but also because we have done the necessary work to be open to receiving them.

It is so easy to dismiss our achievements or shrink ourselves when we finally reach a milestone versus understanding the work we put in to get there.  Honor your journey, embrace your accomplishments and most importantly celebrate your successes. 

Tune in now to get all the details in this new episode and sip some Ripasso with me.

2:10 - Intro to today's wine

3:02 - Valpolicella

4:20 - "Baby Amarone"

4:44 - Spark notes on Ripasso

5:35 - Grapes used in this wine

6:45 - Half the price of an Amarone

8:55 - Putting in the work

10:05 - Remind yourself of how far you've come

11:50 - Familiarity is really easy

13:38 - Visual analysis

13:50 - Olfactory analysis

14:45 - Tasting notes

16:24 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Bertani Valpolicella Ripasso Valpantena DOC 2022 $27

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New Zealand is known for it's intense, zesty, fruit forward wines.  Marlborough is the go to place for sauvignon blanc.  This area is known for having lots of sunshine, cool breezes and stoney river valleys which ultimately aid in bringing vibrant acidity and distinct tropical and herbal notes in the sauvignon blanc.

Yealands is one of the most sustainable wineries in the world and today you get to go on the tasting journey with me. This one is short and sweet, purely tasting notes along with my thoughts on how crazy hot this weather is right now in Florida.  With that said, I figured it would be great to bring on a wine that can help us through this heat.

Hope you guys enjoy this one!

1:10 - Introduction to today's wine

2:40 - Florida people, how we doing?

5:00 - Visual analysis

5:15 - Olfactory analysis

5:35 - Tasting notes

6:40 - It's giving what it needs to give

7:40 - Rating of the wine

8:10 - Happy Mothers Day

Today's wine: Yealands Sauvignon Blanc 2024 $17

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Malvasja Istrijana is a native grape to Istria, Croatia located in the northwestern part of the Istrian peninsula bordering Italy and Slovenia.  As we all know, wine is a product of the soil they come from and this area is known for it's mediterranean style climate aiding the grapes to produce a fresh, crisp, aromatic and mineral wines.

This producer is all about preserving indigenous Istrian varieties honoring the region and heritage. Gianfranco Kozlovic is the largest private producer of Malvasia in Istria and is a stickler for quality. This winery has been in the family for generations and is currently being run by the fourth generation.  They produce around 150,000 bottles of this wine each year.

Tune in now and watch me taste Croatian wine for the first time while I spill all the details on the production, producer and wine.

Cheers!

1:11 - Croatian wine

2:00 - Introduction to the producer

2:44 - Northwestern Istria

3:05 - Indigenous grape

4:20 - Blend 2% fermented in oak

5:30 - Visual analysis

5:45 - Olfactory analysis

6:20 - Tasting notes

8:15 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Kozlovic Malvasia 2023 $25

(Plum market Aventura)

GET WINE HERE 

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In the wine world, once we get the grapes in to start fermenting they go through processes called "punch downs" & "pump overs". Today I teach you what these mean… wine terminology, yayy!

The "cap" is basically the top layer of the solids/grapes in the tanks.  When making wine it is important to manage the cap. Cap management basically means extracting the flavors, colors and tannins from the grapes.  It is a super important process in winemaking and I talk about two methods used to manage the cap… punch downs and pump overs.

Pump overs are so important because it helps you keep the cap healthy and ready so that the fermentation process goes smoothly. Also with these pump overs, you're introducing more oxygen to the juice which is ultimately multiplying the yeasts in the juice preparing them for fermentation. Remember, you want to have a good amount of yeasts and need them to be strong and healthy for the fermentation process.

Punch downs are basically "punching down" the cap into the juice during fermentation.  The cap has all the "solids" aka the color, flavors, tannins, etc. so it's important to do this during fermentation to make sure it has all the flavors, aromas and tannins you want for your vintage in order to create the best wine possible from that batch of grapes.

Today we try a vignobles red wine (vignobles means vineyard in french). It is a red blend of 50% Carignane, 25% Syrah and 25% Petite Syrah.  This vintage is not yet out but today we get the first sneak peek here on the podcast!

1:15 - Intro to punch downs & pump overs

2:20 - Destemmer

4:45 - Cap management

5:30 - What is a pump over?

6:40 - Why the cap shouldn't dry out

7:30 - Strong & healthy yeasts

8:35 - Organic nutrients

9:20 - Evenly distribute the yeast

9:35 - Punch downs

10:15 - Why punch downs are important 

11:15 - Temperatures rise during fermentation

13:00 - Introducing today's wine

17:30 - Visual & olfactory analysis

19:55 - Taste the wine

Today's wine: 2020 Peterson Vignobles red wine (this vintage is not out yet but I linked the 2018 vintage below, please note that the blend in the 2018 vintage is different than the 2020 vintage.)

https://www.petersonwinery.com/product/Vignobles-2018--Dry-Creek-Valley 

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In episode 13, we talked about Chianti (this region is near and dear to my heart because I studied abroad in Florence)…. today I get into Chianti Classico. One of the biggest differences between the two is that a Chianti has to be made with at least 70% of the Sangiovese grape and a Chianti Classico has to be made with at least 80% of the Sangiovese grape. Diego Finocchi (today's producer) went to school to be a winemaker and at age 24 bought twelve acres from a local farmer (aka he bought land in a prime location - the historic part of Chianti) in 2006 and created his own wine label (AMAZING).

I get into the different classifications of Chianti Classico (it's taken very serious in Italy) and the grapes used to finish the Chianti Classico blend (keep in mind some can be made from 100% of the Sangiovese grape). Today's Chianti Classico falls under the third classification called annata classification which means it has to be aged a minimum of 12 months.  The second classification is called Chianti Classico Riserva which means it has to be aged a minimum of 24 months. Lastly, the top tier classification is called Chianti Classico Gran Selezione (I mistakingly say Gran Reserva a couple of times throughout the episode… please know I meant to say Gran Selezione) in which the requirements are that it must be single vineyard grapes or the best grapes available and it must be aged a minimum of 30 months.

I open the 2020 vintage from this producer and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint at all.  I gave it a 9/10….. so you must check this one out!

Hope you enjoy the episode… and a glass of Chianti Classico.

1:35 - Difference between Chianti & Chianti Classico

3:30 - Details about today's producer

4:10 - L'erta di Radda; name of the vineyard & label

5:10 - 2009 Diego creates his first Chianti Classico

5:40 - Chianti Classico classifications

6:10 - 5 grapes used to finish the Chianti Classico blend

7:20 - Chianti Classico Annata

7:40 - Chianti Classico Riserva

7:55 - Chianti Classico Gran Selezione* 

9:20 - Chianti Classico stamp

10:30 - Open up the bottle for tasting

12:50 - Typical color for Chianti Classico's

14:30 - Olfactory Analysis

15:15 - Where the tannins come from usually

15:55 - Taste the wine

Today's wine: 2020 L'erta di Radda Chianti Classico $37 (Check your local wine stores to see if they sell it at a lower price, this was the best online deal I found)

https://ny.eatalyvino.com/wines/L-Erta-di-Radda-Chianti-Classico-2020-w5666689id 

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The first Spanish wine of the podcast!  We are getting into one of the greatest grape varietals in Spain…. Tempranillo.  Did you know there are a ton of synonyms for this grape?! My favorite is "Tinta de Toro", learning all these synonyms will help you understand that you are probably looking at the same varietal at the store… it just has SO MANY different names. 

Vatan happens to be the classic expression used for Spain's oldest clone of Tempranillo which happens to be one of the few clones in the world that actually survived the phylloxera breakout.  Since it survived the outbreak, this wine we try today is one of the few that are still grown on the original rootstock of the vines.

If you are looking for a complex, tannic Spanish medium bodied wine with a longer finish, this one is for you.  Overall, this isn't my favorite grape varietal this is why my rating was on the lower side for this wine but for the price point and grape style I would say this is a good option.

1:45 - Introducing today's wine, Tempranillo

3:00 - Gladiator juice

3:33 - Oldest clone of Spain

5:00 - Original rootstock still in place

5:50 - 3rd most planted grape in the world

6:20 - Open the bottle for tasting

9:50 - Olfactory analysis and tasting

11:33 - Floral components

14:15 - Foods I would pair this with.

Today's wine: 2019 Triton Tinta de Toro Bodegas Vatan $22

https://www.totalwine.com/wine/red-wine/tempranillo/bodegas-vatan-triton-tinta-de-toro/p/113639750?glia=true&cid=plia:Shopping+US+None+ENG+SPART:::google&s=912&&pid=cpc:Performance+Max%2BUS%2BFLOR%2BSTANDARD+PRIORITY::google::&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAm4WsBhCiARIsAEJIEzUzFhEpqtBE7Rn8FJw0kRTgDtlB5-ZfkvyaPVt3FfCMuM7LqNCHrFMaAtUQEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds  

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A greek, vegan, unfiltered, organic white wine.  Today's wine is one of the most important varietals in Greece that originated in Santorini called Assyrtiko.  This one definitely surprised me because it was well balanced, had good length and was persistent. Makes me want to be by the water eating some fresh seafood for sure. I get into details regarding the fermentation process and turbidity of the wine.  I also discuss the process of racking the wine and how winemakers sometimes add fining agents that help break down the left over sediments in wine to ultimately achieve the desired finish they want for their wine.  If you are vegan, you should definitely give this one a try… this one was delicious.

1:25 - Introduction to today's wine

2:15 - Assyrtiko

5:10 - Fermentation process 

6:30 - Turbidity range

7:50 - Racking wine

11:00 - Sediment residue isn't necessarily bad

11:40 - Why winemakers filter or rack wine 

12:30 - What happens if wine spoils in the bottle

13:05 - Originated in Santorini

14:35 - Open the bottle to taste wine

16:25 - Visual analysis of the wine

17:20 - Olfactory analysis

18:50 - Taste the wine

21:10 - 8/10 white wine

Today's wine: 2020 Assyrtiko Anatolikos Vineyards $25

https://bottlebarn.com/products/2020-anatolikos-vineyards-fine-assyrtiko 

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Montepulciano D'Abruzzo for the win today!

Rule of thumb: the wine is good if you enjoy it… that's all that matters. Today's wine falls within the DOC category (check out my Italian wine guide below).  Barone Cornacchia (today's producer) practices organic farming and the family has been in the wine industry for 5 generations! Fun fact, their great great grandfather played a major role in helping restore all of the vineyards in the Abruzzo region after the phylloxera breakout.

One thing that guides this family to continue running their vineyard is what their father taught them which is "loving the land will always bring out the best." I love that, their passion for viticulture and their love for the land is definitely a key factor to their success throughout all their generations.

Not only do I get into the history behind this producer but also into a deep topic…spirituality. I truly believe love is the solution to many problems and it all starts within.  Once you truly understand yourself and love yourself you can start living a life filled with joy and help others do the same.  Don't miss out on this today, let me know what you think!

2:22 - Introducing today's producer

3:45 - History on the family vineyard

4:10 - Explaining the phylloxera breakout

5:05 - Restoring the vines after the breakout

7:45 - Spirituality; God, frequencies, energies, the Universe

9:11 - The Power of Now

10:50 - Challenging religions

11:22 - God is love, we are love

12:10 - Work on your self love

13:15 - Love is the solution

15:25 - Always be in the present moment

16:30 - YOU are the solution to your problem

18:15 - Open wine for tasting

20:20 - Olfactory analysis

25:55 - Rating the wine a 6/10

Today's wine: 2020 Barone Cornacchia Montepulciano D'Abruzzo

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My first official guest on the show, Ms. Dakota Wallace….who also happens to be one of my best friends. We get into the story of how we met studying abroad in Florence, Italy where we were randomly assigned as roommates. We have some juicy dating stories while we were abroad and get details on Dakota's dating story with a man named Nico while tasting another great Pinot from Longboard Vineyards in Sonoma County. Between night clubs in Florence to a night at the hospital with Italians to Dakota getting a ring, our abroad experience was definitely a memorable one.

Besides these fun stories abroad, we also get deep into being in a transitional phase. Dakota shows us how it's important to share your journey when you are in the "messy" "transitional" phase in order to inspire and help others. When Dakota was going into college, she actually wanted to be a Chef but ended up studying Hospitality & Events instead.  The experiences she has had in the events industry up until today have led her back into transitioning into what she always wanted to do from day one at college. Taking over her family business, Bitter Sweet, in 2024 she has big plans for the food industry to really shine light on the importances of eating whole foods with creative recipes while creating an environment that supports health, wealth and longevity.

Tune in now as we get into deep conversations involving doing what you love, joy, spirituality, self-development and surrounding yourself with the right people.

1:11 - Intro to Dakota Wallace

2:20 - How we met studying abroad in Italy

5:00 - Dakota was scared of me before we met

6:10 - Intro to today's wine

6:45 - Story behind the wine we are drinking

7:35 - Tasting notes with back story on our wine expertise

9:30 - Phenomenal Pinot, persistent but not overpowering

10:50 - Nico, an Italian dating story

13:30 - Nicole dates Leo, an Italian Albanese man

16:50 - 2am at a club in Italy

17:45 - Jaw dropping moment for Dakota

20:45 - Nico saves Dakota's life

22:25 - Nico give Dakota a ring

25:45 - Random woman texts Dakota about Nico

28:00 - Sugar momma status

30:15 - Plot twist, the ring is returned

33:00 - Transitional phases & importance of sharing the "mess"

34:55 - Food makes people happy

37:22 - Landing a "dream job"

39:20 - Having it all doesn't mean you "have it all"

43:35 - Everything makes sense in reverse

45:45 - Elevating your circle can change your life

47:25 - Becoming an Herbologist 

49:00 - Dakota's tea company is created

51:25 - You don't have to do everything alone

54:45 - Events company was born by word of mouth

58:00 - PCOS and reevaluating lifestyle

1:02:45 - Taking over her father's company Bitter Sweet

1:04:40 - Creating an amazing company culture for the people

Today's wine: 2021 Pinot Noir "Meant to Bee" Longboard Vineyards $64

https://www.longboardvineyards.com/xe/xe.asp?page=viewitem&p=1025&cat=wine 

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High quality wine does not necessarily mean high price tags. Chianti is special to me because I studied abroad in Florence which happens to be a part of the Tuscany region. What is the difference between a Chianti and a Chianti Classico? I touch on this today and get into fun facts about Chianti wine. The Chianti we try today is within the DOCG Italian Classifications in which there are a lot of regulations, like controlling the yield amount of the grapes, in order to be considered or accepted under this classification.  Overall, DOCG is the top tier of the four classifications where you are guaranteed top quality wines. Also, I get into an update on where I am at in harvest and open the bottle to give this $10 Chianti a try!

If you'd like to sip while you listen, I grabbed this bad boy at my local whole foods… the link is down below for you to buy yourself this wine before getting into the episode and taste along with me!

2:05 - Introduction to today's wine (Chianti)

3:00 - Studying abroad in Florence

4:10 - Castello della Paneretta 

5:00 - Difference between Chianti & Chianiti Classico

5:55 - Classico stamp on bottle

6:40 - Italian wine guide

7:10 - DOCG classification

8:20 - Rules & regulations within the DOCG

9:05 - Highest quality wine produced from Italy

10:08 - Anatta = vintage in Italian

11:20 - Open the bottle of wine

12:15 - Update on my harvest internship

13:50 - Fun facts with Nicole

16:00 - Olfactory analysis on the Chianti

18:05 - Taste test & analysis

21:22 - Good weekly wine at great price point

Today's Wine: Diflora Chianti 2021

https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/product/diflora-chianti-750-ml-b07pqqvdtp 

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Recharging yourself is so important and I touch on taking a day for yourself in order to get your energy back to 100% because, remember, when you are 100% you are able to give others 100%.  Today's wine is a Primitivo from California and I get into the difference between a Zinfandel & Primitivo. Yes, they are the same grape and essentially the "same thing" but there is a difference depending on the country or area it's cultivated in. I usually tend to like Primitivo's from Italy but I haven't had many from California to really compare the two.  That's why today's episode is so exciting!

Tune in to see if you are interested in trying a Californian Primitivo!

3:15 - Intro to today's episode

3:40 - "Day to Self" is important

4:20 - Recharging yourself

5:02 - Listen to what you need

6:25 - Introducing today's wine

6:45 - Zinfandel & Primitivo = same thing

7:25 - Primitivo grape originates from Croatia

8:00 - Tribidrag 

8:45 - What primitivo stands for

11:10 - Facts about today's wine

12:10 - Major difference between Zinfandel & Primitivo

13:10 - All of us are unique

14:14 - Olfactory analysis on today's wine

16:30 - Taste the wine

18:40 - What food I would pair this wine with

Today's wine: Zinfandel 2019 Primitivo Bradford Mountain Estate Vineyard

https://www.petersonwinery.com/product/Zinfandel-2019--Primitivo 

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Did you know there is a lot of science behind the winemaking process? I touch on what I have learned and go over terms that were foreign to me before I started working a wine harvest. Sampling grapes is an important part of the process and harvesting the grapes at the perfect time is where the science comes in to help us.  I dive into how these different measurements affect the wine and the PH of the wine. Also, the importance and difference between alcoholic fermentation and malolactic fermentation. It is super important to make sure the yeasts in the juice are healthy and have enough nutrients to be healthy and strong during fermentation.  Everything is explained in the simplest way possible and towards the end of the episode I open up a 2021 Malbec from Domaine Bousquet.

You don't want to miss this one!  

2:50 - Science components

3:40 - Sampling grapes

5:22 - Why sampling the grapes is important

7:45 - Breaking down important terms

8:00 - What we measure to harvest grapes

8:55 - What is yield?

9:45 - Brix measurement

10:45 - Measuring the PH of wine

11:45 - TA measurement (total acidity)

12:30 - YAN measurement (yeast assimilable nitrogen)

12:45 - MA measurement (malic acid)

13:35 - Preferred PH range for winemakers

15:35 - Fermentation: two types

15:58 - Alcoholic fermentation

16:18 - Malolactic fermentation

17:05 - Feeding the yeasts for fermentation

18:18 - Timing is everything in winemaking

18:45 - Magical juice (wine) is created once the malolactic fermentation finishes

20:05 - Describe today's wine for tasting

22:30 - Briefly explain barrels

22:33 - Gluten free wine

24:24 - Wine tasting

Today's wine: Domaine Bousquet 2021 Malbec 

https://domainebousquet.com/en/wine/premium-malbec/ 

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Today we are trying a Malbec from the US… particularly Sonoma County, California.  I do a little story time on this specific 2018 Malbec and the Bradford Mountain Vineyard regarding these grapes.  I was feeling the story time and touched on "suitcase clones" which was a huge movement in the 80's with Americans bringing back clones from Europe. Honestly, the 80's were wild LOL but we loved their wines/clones so why not bring a few back to create some great wines over here (…am I right?). 

Sit back, grab your glass and enjoy another episode of Sip & Grow with me.

1:55 - Malbec from Sonoma County, CA

2:25 - Story behind their Malbec vines

3:20 - Story time the Nicole way

4:50 - Aging process for this Malbec

5:30 - Oak barrels

6:45 - "Suitcase clones" and the history behind it

9:50 - Clearing out any diseases from foreign clones

10:55 - Pour wine in glass

12:10 - Elevate your tasting notes

13:55 - Taste the wine

16:18 - What food I would pair this wine with

Today's Wine: 2018 Malbec Bradford Mountain Estate Vineyard $40 

https://www.petersonwinery.com/product/Malbec-2018--Bradford-Mountain-Estate-Vineyard 

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I bought a wine preservation system… aka a Coravin.  The Coravin system basically pours the wine out of a bottle without removing the cork and ultimately keeps the wine fresh in the bottle.  Today I showcase this new tool I bought on a fabulous red blend from southeastern Spain.

Juan Gil has become one of my favorite Spanish wine producers this year. I love that they value quality and tradition while operating on sustainability by respecting the land, being energy efficient throughout the winery and using natural resources.  They are fully organic and create high quality wines.

Tune in now to get the full details on how a Coravin works (watch me use it), hear me talk about Juan Gil and taste this amazing red blend with me.  

1:45 - What is a Coravin?

3:45 - Introduction to the producer

4:35 - Organic wine

5:15 - My favorite red blend of 2025

6:40 - How to use the Coravin

10:25 - Argon gas

13:10 - Visual & Olfactory analysis

13:55 - Tasting notes

15:08 - What I would pair with this wine

15:24 - Rating on this wine

Today's wine: Juan Gil Blue Label Red Blend 2021 $35

PLUM MARKET 

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Sulfur… natural wine… let's talk about it.

What is sulfur? Why is it important? What does natural wine actually mean?

I get into all these questions in this episode, regarding why using sulfur outside in the vineyard and during the wine making process is important. Each winemaker has their own process and way of doing things but there is a general rule of thumb for everyone across the board…. make sure the integrity of the wine is protected at all times.  I dive into oxidation and how some white wines may have higher amounts of sulfur if the skins were separated in the winemaking process.  One thing I love about where I currently am working is that they dry farm and stick to the natural way of making wines. My take on wine is simple, stick to the natural wine making process but do what is necessary to to preserve the wine you make.

Tune in to get all the nitty gritty details on this topic. Hope you enjoy and drink your wine while listening!

1:30 - Hurricane in California

3:10 - What are natural wines?

4:15 - How sulfur helps the grapes out in the vineyard

5:45 - Not all winemakers are the same

6:25 - Sticking to the fermentation process & adding sulfur when necessary

7:05 - Natural oxidant from the skins

7:30 - White wines usually have more sulfur added to them

8:20 - Sulfur allergies

9:35 - Preserving wine in the bottling process

10:30 - Shelf life for most 'natural wines'

11:02 - Visual analysis of the wine

12:50 - Taste the wine

13:50 - My take on natural wines

14:44 - Would I buy this wine?

16:15 - Expanding your palette

Today's Wine: 2020 Virgen Organic Cabernet Sauvignon

https://domainebousquet.com/en/wine/virgen-cabernet-sauvignon/ 

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Two words…. Kosher and natural.

Today we are tasting a Kosher wine that also falls under the natural wine category.  I get into what exactly kosher wine is, go over what natural wine means and talk about how sulfur is important to preserve the integrity of the wine.  Generally, I am not a huge fan of the 'natural wine' label but I do stand by sticking to the natural process of wine making from vine to glass.  Tune into this episode to see how this specific Kosher wine taste and hope it's the addition you are looking to add to your wine collection.

Let me know what you think!

2:40 - Introduction to Kosher wine we will be tasting

4:50 -  What is Kosher wine?

5:50 - Natural wine 

7:00 - Sticking to the natural wine process as much as possible

7:30 - Sulfites… don't be scared of them

8:35 -  Don't change the integrity of the wine

9:48 - Natural wine movement

10:50 - Visual analysis of the wine

12:22 - Living a dream with California weather

13:30 - Olfactory analysis of the wine

Today's Wine: 2021 Alavida Organic Kosher Malbec

https://www.totalwine.com/wine/red-wine/malbec/alavida-usda-organic-certified-kosher-malbec/p/2126215067?glia=true&s=1135&&pid=cpc:Performance+Max%2BUS%2BCALI%2BSTANDARD+PRIORITY::google::&gclid=CjwKCAjwvrOpBhBdEiwAR58-3CsEqIBUoHA1yrXeQU6GUliCZ4t8S5Asm7_TeRduIaFX0J2w1RpE6BoCDi0QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds 

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Another week, another episode… WELCOME BACK and/or WELCOME if you are new to the podcast.

Today, we are drinking the Hallberg Blanc from the vineyard I am currently working a Harvest at aka Emeritus Vineyards (best Pinot in town hehe).  I do mention that Emeritus also has a sparkling wine (like a champagne but a little different) which is just as delicious as the blanc. 

Today, I get into talking about Angus Cloud's death which inspired the topic for this episode along with recent conversations I have been having with multiple people.  Understanding yourself is so important because knowing who you are will allow you to be more open to experiences (good or bad) that will aid in your growth.  In order to experience and feel everything life has to offer you really need to be honest and open to everything. I think it's so important to always do things that bring you joy and happiness and I feel like there are so many people out there confused, lost or unhappy with their current life because they aren't doing what brings them joy or focusing on their present moment. Life can be hard sometimes and it's easy to go with what is comfortable or "in routine". Mental health is important and there are so many factors that can get in the way of you and what you want. Hopefully today I give you a different perspective that will inspire you to strive for more and do the things that genuinely bring you the most joy.

Remember, everything is always happening for you, not against you.

Hope you guys enjoy this one!

1:50 - Introducing the Hallberg Blanc

2:15 - Clones 101

2:50 - Open bottle to start tasting the Blanc

3:20 - Red wine vs. white wine

3:45 - Improvise as my roommate & her date walk by

4:40 - Tasting the Blanc

5:55 - What I would eat with this Blanc

7:10 - Angus Cloud passed away

8:05 - Life experiences & mediocracy

9:10 - Everything is happening for you

10:15 - Everything starts with understanding yourself

11:40 - Life: the good & the bad

13:25 - It's about balance and getting the help you need

Today's wine: 2022 Hallberg Blanc $42

https://www.emeritusvineyards.com/product/2022-emeritus-vineyards-hallberg-blanc/ 

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Welcome back to another episode….. sera lo que sera (it will be, what it will be)… which in this  case it will be Syrah.

This producer is probably one of my favorite finds here in California so far. Anthill Farms, thank you for blessing me with an easy to drink Syrah. Their wines have yet to disappoint me, also I just love their story.  Tune in to hear a little more about Anthill Farms and try their 2020 vintage with me. Today you will learn how three friends created their own wine label, talk about the term "cellar rats" and getting into taking some messy action going after what you want. I dig into how everything in life is connected, good things take time and you attract what you are. Remember, everyone is dealt a different card but it's what you do with your card that matters!

Cheers to episode 6!

2:44 - Anthill Farms backstory

3:33 - "Cellar Rats"

4:22 - Three friends create their own wine label

5:00 - Crush pads, what they are and what they are used for

6:12 - Pour the Syrah for tasting

7:05 - Anthill Farms backstory inspired me

8:22 - Olfactory analysis on the Syrah

9:20 - Tasting notes on the wine

11:25 - Take "messy action"

12:35 - Everyone is dealt a different card

13:10 - Everything is a process

14:20 - Good things take time

15:55 - Everything is connected

16:30 - Law of attraction

Today's wine: Anthill Farms 2020 Syrah

https://www.anthillfarms.com/purchase 

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YAY! Another day of sippin' on some wine. In this case sippin' on one of my favorite grape varieties… Malbec.

This week we strictly talk about two of my favorite things, soccer and wine (Messi & Malbec). I get into talking about the Zuccardi family, Inter Miami CF, the MLS and at some point invite Messi and his fam to the family asado (bbq)…. they say you miss 100% of the shots you don't take right? It's a long shot but hey I hope one day Messi comes across this episode and gets the invite. The Di Pasquale family are some of the best host.

Also, may or may not have thrown in a random study abroad story about a Croatian guide and a bee.

This one is short but probably one of the funnest ones I have filmed to date. Hope you enjoy it!

1:07 - Introducing my favorite grape
2:20 - Introducing the Zuccardi family
5:08 - Messi going to Inter Miami CF
6:00 - Messi changing the MLS culture for the better
7:00 - Inviting Messi to my family asado (bbq)
7:45 - Tasting the Malbec
9:24 - Why I love Malbecs
10:15 - Three month asado (bbq) break
11:00 - Bee in Croatia 2014
12:58 - Don't fear the bee, pet the bee…
14:05 - Try the Zuccardi Malbec, you won't regret it.


Today's wine: Zuccardi Serie A 2022

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Pinot Noir is now a way of life for me…aka my job has taught me to appreciate this grape even more. Today I get to give you the insider scoop on a vintage that is not yet out! 

Backstory: We bottled the 2022 vintages my third week on the job and I was able to take home some sample bottles that were tested in the lab to ensure the quality is exactly how it should be once the wine hits the bottle. Since these test bottles can't really go out to market, I was able to take some home to taste… woohoo more delicious wines for the Podcast!  Also, once this vintage is released it will be the perfect time to drink it and will definitely taste even better than it did for me during this tasting because it was given the time it needs in the bottle for the true character of this specific wine to thrive.

Once the vintage is out, I will make sure to let you know on Instagram so you can grab your bottle!  In the meantime, I will link their website below for you to check out their current vintages on the market.

Today, I get into new world wines vs. old world wines and really just simplify the differences so that you can get the gist of what they mean and why they are different. Then we get into trying the 2022 Pinot Hill East and how I feel about wine collections.

Hope you enjoy!

2:00 - Difference between old world wines & new world wines

5:00 - New world wines = the millennials of the wine world

5:50 - Explaining the area & climate of the wine we are tasting

6:33 - Open the bottle to taste 

7:00 - Appreciate learning & understanding everything

7:55 - Problems would be solved if we listen to understand

9:30 - Wine description

10:10 - What I would eat with this wine

11:35 - Wine collections… are they necessary?

12:35 - Drink the wine when you get the wine

Today's wine: 2022 Pinot Hill East (vintage not yet out to the market, view their current selections below)

https://www.emeritusvineyards.com/acquire/ 

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Thank you for tuning in once again… I appreciate YOU!

Today, we are getting into the details of where exactly I am working and try one of their best selling wines. I touch on how to open a wine bottle, remind you the specifics on how to hold your wine glass (because we definitely want to make sure that glass + wine is secured and tasting it's best at all times) and I give you the inside scoop on how my first week on the job went. I touch on pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and looking at things from a different perspective. This one is short, sweet and to the point. I really hope you enjoy this episode as much as I enjoy putting these together for you.

Cheers to number 3!

1:50 - Intro to Emeritus Vineyards

4:44 - Hallberg Ranch 2019 vintage

6:22 - How to open a bottle of wine

7:55 - Growth & continuously learning

8:20 - Push yourself out of your comfort zone

9:12 - Looking at things from a different perspective & taking accountability for your actions

11:00 - Analyzing & tasting the wine (pinot noir)

12:40 - Pinot Noir grape

14:10 - My first week working at Emeritus Vineyards

15:22 - Cleaning & labor work

16:22 - Pictures & videos during wine harvest

16:45 - Painting barrels

17:35 - Learning how to transfer & filer wine

19:19 - Wine harvest talk

Today's wine: 2019 Hallberg Ranch $48 https://www.emeritusvineyards.com/product/2019-emeritus-vineyards-hallberg-ranch-750/

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SECOND EPISODE… Let's goooo.

This week we get to tasting our first wine (…finally…) on the podcast! I get into my career background, how I landed my wine harvest internship and dive right into tasting one of my favorite Italian grapes (nebbiolo).  We do touch on the spider situation in my current living quarters but over all I am so thankful to be living on a vineyard, experiencing and learning as much as I can!

I can't wait for you to listen and really hope you enjoy this one.

Today's wine is: Renato Ratti Ochetti Nebbiolo 2021 (price point between $26-$30)

1:50 - Career background & how the podcast was created.

3:00 - Wine harvest: how & why

4:20 - Interviews are rough

4:45 - The worst that can happen is "no"

5:45 - Barn house + spiders

6:30 - Wine @sospiro_naturalwinebar in Coral Gable Miami, FL with Fabrizio

8:10 - What "vintage" means on a wine bottle

9:00 - History on Renato Ratti, Langhe & the nebbiolo grape.

10:50 - Protecting Italian borders & the meaning behind "Ochetti" 

12:40 - How to open a bottle of wine

16:20 - Optimal temperature for red wines

19:05 - How to hold a wine glass 

21:30 - Tasting notes on this weeks wine

25:30 - Foods that I think go with this wine

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First episode…YOU MADE IT. I am stoked you are here. After months of planning and organizing everything, the time has finally come to share my vision and passion with you!

In this episode, I introduce what this podcast is all about and give you an overview of what's to come. I hope you are ready and willing to embark on this wine journey with me. I can't wait to have special guests on here to bring you even more value and fresh perspectives on all things having to do with wine, food, struggles, experiences and life.

1:00 - Intro to the podcast

2:22 - Why wine is amazing

4:04 - Backstory on host Nicole

6:44 - Wine aroma wheel

7:44 - Trying new things, just do it

9:30 - What is mate?

10:20 - The art of sharing

11:44 - In it to win it

12:25 - You are not alone

13:40 - Be yourself

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Fresh, dry white wine from the South of France has now become one of my favorites.  In the Languedoc region there is a native grape called Picpoul that has been around since before the reign of Louis XIV. In this area, the terroir is made of Limestone, right by the mediterranean sea, which will ultimately give us lots of minerality and high acids coming through in the wine (literally love these kind of whites).

This particular wine is special to this area and they have been bottling it in what is called the "Neptune" bottle because it is a symbol of the wine recognized globally and exclusively used for Picpoul de Pinet. Tune in now to get the full details on this producer, the grape and taste this crispy, fresh white wine with me.

1:45 - Introduction to producer & wine

2:35 - "Neptune" bottle

3:20 - Popular in the south of France

4:22 - Limestone is amazing for the vines

5:50 - Visual analysis

6:20 - Olfactory analysis

6:50 - Tasting notes

8:25 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Gerard Bertrand Picpoul de Pinet 2023 $16.99

Plum Market 

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Mosquita Muerta Wines have been around since 2009.  I remember first trying them in Buenos Aires when visiting my family and honestly have loved every wine I have tried from them. After trying the wine in Argentina, I saw they started importing their wines to the US.

This winery hand harvests their grapes and is located in one of the best regions in Argentina known for creating complex wines. Today's blend consist of 60% Malbec, 20% Syrah and 20% Cabernet Franc.  Each grape is fermented on their own in concrete vats and then blended in together. I love that it is predominantly made of Malbec, giving the wine a great aromatic expression.

Tune in now to get all the details on this winery and grab a glass to try this delicious red blend with me!

1:15 - One of my favorite go to wineries in Argentina

2:50 - Sapo de Otro Pozo

3:08 - Malbec, Syrah & Cabernet Franc

5:10 - Grapes are fermented separately

8:40 - Visual analysis

9:20 - Olfactory analysis

10:35 - Tasting notes

12:35 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2019 Sapo de Otro Pozo Red Blend $35

Graziano's Market

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Extra Brut sparkling wine from Northern Italy… yes please!

I tried this wine about a month ago and fell in love. Franciacorta is a sparkling wine from the Italian province of Brescia located in Lombardy which is a certified DOCG area.  It is produced using the traditional method and is made up of 75% Chardonnay, 2.5% Pinot Blanc and 22.5% Pinot Noir.

This one specifically is a multi-vintage sparkling wine. I get into the details of the difference between vintage wine and reserve wine so that you can differentiate them when it comes to buying any kind of sparkling wine (including champagne). 

The Franciacorta I open up today is 77% vintage wine 2022, 18% reserve wine 2021 and 5% reserve wine 2020. Tune in now to watch the full episode and enjoy a glass of bubbles with me!

2:10 - Sparkling wine from Lombardy

3:15 - Franciacorta

3:55 - Multi vintage sparkling wine

4:25 - What is champagne

5:18 - Multi-vintage

5:55 - Vintage wine vs. reserve wine

7:22 - Most is made of vintage wine

8:20 - Vintage Franciacorta

11:30 - Olfactory analysis

12:05 - Tasting notes

13:07 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Franciacorta Edizione 47 $45

Graziano's market or Plum Market 

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Orange wine from Sardinia made with three different grapes… need I say more?

Not only did this cool label design on the bottle hook me in to buying it but also when I heard Cannonau (Grenache) was one of the three grapes involved, I had to get it. This blend consists of Vermentino, Cannonau & Nasco. Nasco is a native grape to Sardinia that has been used in many blends since the Roman times. 

This family winery is fourth generation owned and located in the southeast part of Sardinia (near the coast). I love that they stick to no chemical farming and low intervention winemaking. Tune in now to get the full details on the winemaking process for this blend and taste this cool ass orange wine with me!

1:30 - We love Eataly

3:38 - Orange wine

4:22 - Pairs well with stinky cheese

5:10 - Blend of three grapes

5:40 - Bucce translates to skins

6:22 - My only complaint

7:45 - Native grape to Sardinia

10:55 - Unfined & unfiltered

12:40 - Fourth generation 

13:13 - Low intervention winemaking 

14:20 - Olfactory analysis

15:15 - Tasting notes

17:10 - Food pairings

18:15 - Rating on the wine

Today's wine: Cardedu Bucce Bianco $29

Eataly Aventura

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Maremma is located in the southern part of Tuscany.  This area is where the famous Sassicaia is produced. It's safe to say this is a great alternative that won't cost you an arm and a leg and can be easily accessible for everyday drinking. Muralia, today's producer, practices organic farming and was built on passion, knowledge and respect for traditional and real values.

This tuscan blend is hand harvested, destemmed, gently pressed and then goes into stainless steel tanks followed by bottle aging.  It consists of 50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. 

Tune in now to get all the details on this producer, the area and taste this delicious wine with me!

1:20 - Studied abroad

2:05 - Tuscany, near & dear to my heart

3:15 - Sassicaia

4:00 - Unknown brands, great quality wine

4:44 - From Milano to Tuscany

5:28 - Maremma

6:40 - Made up of three grapes

7:25 - Dominant grape varietal

8:08 - Four Italian certifications

10:55 - Visual analysis

11:40 - Tasting notes

12:35 - Chianti Classico fans check in

Today's wine: 2022 Mural Toscana Rosso $16

Plum Market Aventura

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Nosiola is a white grape varietal native to the region Trentino and derived it's name from the Italian term for hazelnut (nocciola) due to it's natural flavor profile.  Founded by two friends in 1975, Mario Pojer and Fiorentino Sandri set out to protect and revive the local grapes of the area and produce wines which were almost forgotten. 

At Pojer e Sandri, they not only produce wine but also produce wine and whole fruit vinegars. Due to the German influence in the area, the vinegars perform very well and compliment the local diet. Natural farming, respect for nature, the land, the environment and traditions, this wine is definitely not one to be forgotten.

Tune in now to get the full details on this producer and try out this Nosiola with me!

1:30 - Intro to producer

2:08 - Mario & Fiorentino

2:45 - Collaboration for wine success

3:12 - Native grapes

3:30 - Nosiola derived from "nocciola"

4:30 - North of Italy

6:55 - Visual analysis

7:10 - Olfactory analysis

8:10 - Tasting notes

10:22 - Truffle brie cheese

10:40 - Not comparable

Today's wine: 2021 Pojer e Sandri Nosiola $33

(Eataly)

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"I admire wine, I respect it and try to bring out what is already written in the soil it is born and grows in."  This is the perspective that the grandfather of Graziano Pra passed down from generations to him and his father. I just love that they are all about how great wine reflects the land it comes from. 

Today, I open up a Soave Classico from the Veneto region located in the northeastern part of Italy.  Garganega grapes are native to Veneto and are known for their role in the production of the Soave wine.  Soave must contain a minimum of 70% Garganega grapes. 

Overall, my favorite characteristic this producer has is that they are adamant on guiding the wine and not imposing on what nature does but rather leading it in the right direction towards an elegant, precious wine.  Tune in now to get all the details and tasting notes on this grape.

1:50 - Introduction to today's wine

2:50 - Graziano Pra

3:08 - Respect the land

3:55 - Garganega grape

7:15 - Olfactory analysis

8:10 - Tasting notes

10:45 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2024 Pra Soave Classico OTTO $23

(Eataly)

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We made it to the hundredth episode!!!

Overall, super grateful to continue to bring you all these episodes and excited to see the podcast continuously grow.  I am just out here having fun, tasting delicious wines and bringing you the knowledge I learn on a daily basis when it comes to the industry and production sprinkling in fun, life, travel, business, etc.  

Today's producer is from the Northwestern part of Italy in a town called Valle D'Aosta, which borders France and Switzerland lying on the western alps. I love the fact that it is a family run vineyard and winery, fully organic and that they implement sustainable practices to ultimately create the best wine they can while supporting the environment. 

Tune in now to get all the details on this wine and producer.  I hope you enjoy this one… Cheers to continuing to have fun on here discovering and drinking amazing wines around the world.  

1:11 - 100th episode

1:25 - Expressing gratitude

2:55 - THANK YOU

3:35 - Introduction to the wine

4:00 - Pinot Noir from Valle D'Aosta

5:10 - Western Alps

6:25 - 16th Century migration

7:05 - 1960's Grosjean was born

7:25 - Hand harvest

8:25 - Organic + Sustainable practices

10:30 - Olfactory analysis

11:25 - Tasting notes

13:33 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2023 Grosjean Pinot Noir $44

(Eataly)

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Who loves themselves an unfiltered wine made with minimal intervention? … Yes please!

Junio Vargas Ojeda, winemaker and brand owner of Santo Diablo, reached out to me to try out his wine. He launched his brand in 2025 and this bottle is officially his first batch out in the market. It's a red blend made up of 42% Syrah, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre and 2% Cinsaut. 

Junio has been in the industry for 15 years and has learned everything from his dad and brother who also have worked in the industry most of their life. The grapes used to make their wines are all sourced from Paso Robles. His brand is inspired by a saying from his grandmother: "Ni tanto que queme al Santo ni tanto que no lo alumbre" which translates to " Don't be so harsh that people shy away from you, nor so kind that you become vulnerable to exploitation. Seek a balanced approach."  This philosophy is reflected not only in his winemaking but also in life.

Tune in now to get the full details on this wine, the taste profile and where you can get yourself a bottle to try.

Cheers!

1:30 - Launched wine brand in 2025

3:10 - Be proud of who you are & where you came from

3:30 - Where did the inspiration for Santo Diablo come from

4:30 - Junio learned everything from his dad & brother

6:25 - Red blend of five grapes

6:40 - Sourced grapes from Paso Robles

8:20 - Unfiltered & minimal intervention wine

9:40 - Visual analysis

10:10 - Olfactory analysis

11:30 - Tasting notes

12:42 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2023 Santo Diablo Red Blend $45

(Go on Santo Diablo IG, send DM)

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Spanish wine under $10… another Trader Joe's find.  I want to make it a point to bring on different wines at different price points and also find the perfect day to day wine that won't break your bank.

Today's wine is from a town in Aragon, Spain called Calatayud. This wine region is known for big and bold red wines mainly made from Granacha grapes. Granacha is one of the most widely distributed grapes in the world and is the second most planted grape in Spain.

Tune in now to taste this Granacha with me.  Hope you enjoy this episode.

1:25 - Wines under $12

2:05 - Intrigued by the bottle

2:33 - Introduction to today's wine

2:54 - One of the most popular grapes in the world

3:50 - Where did Granacha originate?

4:25 - Cannonau

4:55 - Wine region in the southwest part

6:25 - You can never have enough wine

7:07 - Visual analysis

7:25 - Olfactory analysis

8:15 - Tasting notes

9:45 - Rating on the wine  

Today's wine: 2023 La Sonriente Granacha $8

(Trader Joe's find)

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Willamette Valley, Oregon is well known for producing Pinot Noir in Oregon.  I am very particular about my Pinot Noirs, as you may know, so this one will be judged harshly.  As I open up this Pinot Noir from Oregon I get into my fairly new transition into a new company. I am doing the same thing just in a different territory.

I am so grateful to be able to continue bringing podcast episodes to life and I am excited for whats to come. Remember, "When you act out of present-moment awareness, whatever you do becomes imbued with a sense of quality, care and love. Do not be concerned with the fruit of your action. When you just give attention to the action itself, the fruit will come of its own accord." 

Tune in now to see if this Pinot from Oregon is worth it. 

1:20 - Intro to today's wine

1:50 - Life transitions

3:20 - Willamette Valley

4:30 - Started a new job

5:20 - Being surrounded by like-minded people

8:05 - I am so grateful for the podcast

8:28 - God plants seeds

9:20 - Be present in the moment

10:30 - Visual analysis

11:11 - Olfactory analysis

11:30 - Tasting notes

13:10 - There's no complexity

14:22 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2023 Argyle Pinot Noir $28

GET WINE HERE 

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Antigal Winery & Estates is one of the oldest wineries in Mendoza, Argentina. One of their most well known bottles is the UNO Malbec. Today, I open up their 2019 Aduentus Cabernet Franc to give a try.  I give you all the details on this wine while getting into the importance of being present and how we should always do things that inspire us to keep our creative flame alive.

Recently, I went to an interior design event where I was reminded about how important it is for us to be truly engaged in each moment as it can be powerful and transformative in our day to day habits. Anchoring yourself to be present in each moment allows you to truly take in what is happening in the now.  This can lead to making better decisions, building deep and meaningful connections and ultimately helps build a deeper sense of gratitude and joy for what each moment truly brings you.

I hope you enjoy this one!

1:15 - Liquor Warehouse

2:05 - Introduction to today's wine

2:22 - Oldest wineries in Mendoza

3:50 - Aging potential for this wine

5:15 - Interior design background

6:45 - Holistic interior design community

8:30 - Comfort + presence

9:55 - Igniting creativity

11:30 - Visual & olfactory analysis

12:05 - Tasting notes

13:50 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Antigal Winery & Estates Aduentus Cabernet Franc 2019 $30

(Liquor Warehouse West Palm Beach)

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Skin contact wine made from 11 different grapes… yes please!

I found this wine at trader joe's for $12 and had to try it out. This is made up of 34% Chenin Blanc, 18% Pinot Gris, 12% Colombard, 9% Xarello, 8% Verdelho,  6% Vermentino, 3% Gewurtztraminer, 3% Semillon, 3% Trousseau Gris, 2% Riesling and 2% Malvasia. 

Skin contact wines are natural wines known as low intervention wine because of the way it's made. Basically, it's producing white wine like red wine. What that looks like is fermenting white wine grapes with the skin and seeds which ultimately gives it that amber / orange color. I am on the journey of finding the best wines for this summer.  Tune in now to get all the details on this orange, skin contact wine and see if it's worth the buy.

1:40 - Introduction to today's wine

2:22 - Minimalistic labeling… we love that

3:15 - 11 different grapes

4:44 - What is skin contact wine?

5:10 - Carotenoids 

6:25 - Visual analysis

7:10 - Olfactory analysis

7:40 - Tasting notes

9:12 - Foods I'd pair this with

9:40 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2023 Slice White Wine $12

(Trader Joe's find)

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Maipo Valley in Chile is considered the "Bordeaux" of South America. Within the Maipo valley there are three sub regions known as Alto Maipo, Central Maipo and Pacific Maipo. I get into detail about each of the sub regions and the wine we open up today is actually from the Central Maipo area which is known to be the oldest winemaking area in Chile… aka the birthplace of Chilean viticulture. 

"Convenience requires no effort" is my story time topic as I open up this Cabernet to try. It's so important to take your time on things and put in the effort in order to reap great rewards. The benefits of putting in the work and taking your time on things you want out of life will, in the long run, be worth it because convenience avoids discomfort but discomfort is where growth lives. Having integrity requires effort, sacrifice and the willingness to face hard truths. Don't take the shortcut, don't do what's convenient. Be conscious, intentional and choose what actually matters in order to get long-term results/rewards.

Tune in now to get all the details and taste this Chilean Cabernet with me!

1:15 - Bordeaux of South America

3:05 - Three sub-regions of the Maipo Valley

4:55 - Mountain like climate

5:15 - First place to have viticulture in Chile

6:06 - Pacific Maipo

9:05 - "Convenience requires no effort"

11:55 - Benefits of putting in the work

12:30 - Visual & olfactory analysis

13:20 - Tasting notes

15:11 - Rating on the wine

Today's wine: 2022 Perez Cruz Cabernet Gran Reserva $18

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Pinot Grigio from Veneto, Italy located in the Alto Adige region.  This particular family has been growing vines in the Northeast of Italy since 1607. Their philosophy is to respect nature, grapes, territories and people living in them. I love that they are all about sustainable practices and producing high quality wines.

What intrigued me about this one was the fact that it is produced with long maceration on the skins giving the wine a beautiful amber, rose gold color. These Pinot Grigio grapes are specifically cultivated on a hill on the Adige valley in Italy called "Colle Ara". Here they have great sun exposure and ideal temperatures for producing the perfect Pinot Grigio.

Tune in now to get all the details on this delicious summer wine.

2:18 - Introduction to today's wine

4:00 - Northeastern part of Italy

4:17 - Producing wines since 1607

4:55 - Long maceration on the skins

5:55 - Pour the wine

6:25 - Olfactory analysis

7:05 - Tasting notes

7:48 - Acidic wine

8:55 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: 2023 Pinot Grigio Albino Armani $23

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Pinot Noir - Malbec blend…. Let's try it out!

In my Graziano's market quest, I came across this red blend and was immediately intrigued. This producer is known for high altitude wines and I love the story behind how this label was created. Five friends that love wine basically created Gen del Alma to keep on making awesome wines that are delicious! Coolest thing about today's wine is that they leave it in a concrete vat for six months before bottling and releasing the wine.

I get into the Summit of Greatness I attended back in 2023 and how it really changed my perspective and lit a fire in me to continue going after my goals and dreams. One of the most important things that stuck with me from that summit was a story that was shared in regards to a black fly.  When you are in a rut or feel stuck in your life, are you taking a step back and looking at the full picture? Or are you trying so hard to get through your set perspective that you don't see other options? Are you hyper focused on the wrong perspective? There are multiple ways of getting to your end goal and sometimes we are so hyper focused on one way when there are multiple ways to get to the same result.

Tune in now to get the full details on this wine, the producer and sit in for a good story time on how we can get out of our own way and get to the next level through a different perspective.

1:50 - Intro to today's wine & producer

2:50 - Northern part of Uco valley

4:50 - Carbonic maceration

5:25 - Concrete vats

6:35 - Summit of Greatness, Lewis Howe

7:50 - Hardest emotion to experience = disappointment 

9:22 - Our experiences teach us something

9:45 - Visual analysis

10:08 - Olfactory analysis

10:50 - Tasting notes

12:00 - Foods that go well with this wine

12:25 - Rating of the wine

13:15 - The story of the black fly

14:45 - Different ways to get the same result

Today's wine: Gen del Alma Malbec - Pinot Noir 2020 $20

(Bought at Graziano's market)

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I came across a red blend from Argentina that uses the appassimento technique. The most known wine for using this method is Amarone (from Italy) but this is the first time I try this style wine from another country.  Today's blend is made up of 45% Malbec, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Bonarda and 5% Cabernet Franc.

I dive deep into what this process of appassimento means and give you insight on the producer while opening up this 2015 vintage to taste. Milamore, today's wine, is inspired by the authentic style of Amarone wine.  Tune in now to get all the details and see if this one is just as delicious as Amarone.

1:15 - Intro to today's wine

2:30 - Appassimento technique

4:22 - Naturally dried grapes

5:05 - Sustainable practice journey

6:10 - Grapes in red blend

8:00 - Visual analysis

8:40 - Olfactory analysis

9:35 - Tasting notes

11:22 - Foods to pair this wine with

11:55 - Rating for the wine

Today's wine: Bodega Renacer Milamore 2015 $30

(Bought at Graziano's market)

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Southern Italian wines have never disappointed me and today I open one up from Calabria.  This grape is called Greco and is known for it's rich, velvety texture and aromatic bouquet. Apparently, this grape descended from greek settlers. They brought their vines and winemaking skills to this area and ever since then the land has been dedicated to producing wines.

The producer I open up today is called Statti and they have been around since the 1700's. Each generation of the Statti family has lived on their land and have played an important role in the Calabrian economy. Tune in now to get all the details on this producer, the grape and the area.  I really enjoyed this white wine and hope you do too!

1:22 - Intro to today's wine

2:45 - Greco bianco

3:24 - Land of wine

5:00 - Four tier system for wine

7:20 - Tasting notes

8:48 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Statti Greco 2022 $25

(Bought this at Graziano's market)

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Have you ever tried a Gewürztraminer? It's a medium bodied dry (with a sweet bouquet) white wine from the northeastern part of France. Alsace, France is known for having the best environment for this grape varietal along with the Alto Adige region in Italy.  Today I open a producer that has been around for centuries in France called Lucien Albrecht. 

What is integrity? For me it falls along the line of doing what is right even when it's difficultI while standing up for what you deeply believe. I get into how having integrity means building solid foundations and why doing the simple things right prepare you for the difficult things in life. Tune into this full episode now to learn about this producer and get all the details on this grape.  See if this one is worth the buy.

1:50 - Intro to today's wine

2:22 - Well known for Gewürztraminer 

3:00 - Lucien Albrecht

3:45 - Visual analysis

4:18 - Olfactory analysis

5:00 - Tasting notes

6:40 - Rating for this wine

7:35 - What is integrity?

9:45 - Solid foundations are important

10:45 - Do the simple things right

Today's wine: Lucien Albrecht Gewurztraminer 2023 $25

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South of France is always a good idea…

We have 100% Grenache from the south of France and what I love about this producer is that they are organic and incorporate biodynamic practices.  Biodynamic farming goes beyond organic farming and focuses on vineyard ecology, natural cycles and soil health. It is a holistic approach to viticulture and truly laid down the foundation for sustainable viticulture practices. They are located in an area in the Agly Valley called Maury which is in the region Roussillon. This area is known for having a hot climate and lots of wind.

"Oiseau Rare" translates to rare bird and this specific wine was created to represent the landscape and terroir. It not only sums up the vineyard plots but also reflects the true nature of wines from the south of France.

Tune in now and get all the details as I open up this "rare bird" Grenache.

1:35 - Introduction to today's wine

2:55 - Rousillon, south of France

3:11 - Known for producing Grenache

3:55 - Biodynamic vineyard

4:18 - Perfect for growing Grenache

5:15 - Holistic approach to farming

7:25 - Visual analysis

7:38 - Olfactory analysis

7:58 - Tasting notes

8:45 - Hidden gem

9:37 - Rating on the wine

Today's wine: 2020 Mac Amiel Oiseau Rare $35

(Plum Market)

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I saved this episode for a rainy day and funny enough it's been raining a lot this past week.  This is part two of when I was in Lincoln, New Hampshire with my good friend Dakota Wallace. We opened up an Italian wine made primarily with the Ruche grape varietal (this trip was the first time I had tried this wine).  This is from the Piedmonte region and it's an exclusive wine because the Ruche grape has limited production due to only 125 acres of this grape being planted in the region. It's a rare grape and at one point was nearly extinct but has experienced a resurgence in recent years.

I get into the details behind this wine as we open it up and taste it while diving into my ski rental adventure. We get into the topic of mentorship and confidence while talking about how Dakota will be helping me learn how to ski for the first time.  Fear of failing, anxiety, expectations, experiences, internal dialogue, etc. we get into conversation involving all these things in our day to day life and how we deal with it.  Release the fear of failing and put in the reps to see where it gets you. Remember, it's only failure if you stop trying.

Hope you enjoy this episode and wine.

1:15 - Intro to guest on podcast

4:15 - Quilting & knitting

5:05 - Intro to today's wine

7:00 - Limited production

8:05 - How do you maintain the DOCG certification

10:20 - Olfactory analysis

11:55 - Tasting notes

12:22 - What we would pair this wine with

13:40 - Skiing for the first time

15:05 - The difference between teaching & mentoring

17:00 - Enjoying silence & confidence

19:20 - Anxiety vs. anxiousness

22:25 - Expectations we put on ourselves

27:00 - Release the fear of failing

31:00 - The only way to get better is to start

35:00 - Is failure a part of success?

37:30 - Consistency is key

41:15 - Dakota should not be allowed to date LOL

44:33 - Rating of the wine

45:44 - Not a sipping wine for Dakota

47:07 - My view on this wine

Today's wine: Crivelli Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato 2023 $29

(Bought it at Eataly)

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Sonoma county Pinot Noir… one of the best places for this grape. I talk about Joe Wagner, a very well known 5th generation winemaker in California.  Joe comes from the Caymus family (vineyard founded in 1972), a very well know wine label in Napa and the United States.  He grew up around vineyards and making wine but he always wanted to do his own thing.  

Joe's first venture was creating the Meomi wine label which took off well in the states.  Eventually he sold this label to Constellation Brands in 2015 and launched a new label called Copper Cane.

Tune in now to get the full details of how and why he created Copper Cane and try one of his popular Pinot Noirs with me.

2:30 - Caymus founded in 1972

3:22 - Black sheep of the family

3:55 - Meomi brand

4:18 - Copper Cane Label, do things differently

5:25 - Introduction to Tuli Pinot Noir

7:50 - Visual analysis

8:25 - Olfactory analysis

9:10 - Tasting notes

11:15 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Tuli Pinot Noir 2023 $33

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Have you ever been to a restaurant and seen a section for orange wine on the wine list and wondered what is that? Is it made from oranges? How does it taste?

Well hate to break it to you, it's not made from oranges but it definitely has a unique taste. Orange wine, in simple terms, is a type of white wine that has been made like red wine.  It is basically skin contact wine produced by fermenting white wine grapes with their skins and seeds  for an extended period. It bridges the gap between traditional white and red wines.

The color skin contact wine gets comes from the compounds in the skin like carotenoids (also found in carrots). Hence, this is why it gets an amber, orange like color and that is why it is called orange wine.  Tune in now as I open up this Gruner Veltliner from Austria and dive into the story behind this grape, the producer and what orange wine really means.

1:45 - Skin contact wine

2:30 - Winzer Krems

2:55 - What is orange wine?

6:25 - Open the bottle

7:30 - Visual analysis

8:18 - Tasting notes

9:45 - Great with spicy foods

10:18 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Winzer Krems Gruner Veltliner Orange 2023 $15

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Jim and Bob Varner, founders of Foxglove, are devoted to the production of low intervention wines in Santa Barbara and Paso Robles. Today's Cab is from the Paso Robles area in California coming in hot at a great price point (for California Cab LOL). Remember, low intervention winemaking means minimal manipulation and additives… literally my favorite type of wines to drink.

I love low intervention wines because it's all about trusting the grapes, the soil, the season, etc. to do it's thing.  Tune in now to hear about these two brothers who created this brand and try out this $22 Cab with me to see if it lives up to the hype and price point.

1:40 - Not a big California cabernet girl

3:25 - Central Coast, Intro to Foxglove

3:55 - The Varner Brothers

4:52 - Dedicated to low intervention winemaking

5:25 - Go with the flow

6:40 - Surrender to the present

7:55 - Trust that being you is enough

9:35 - Visual analysis

9:55 - Olfactory analysis

10:40 - Tasting notes

12:15 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Foxglove Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 $22

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Today I try an indigenous grape from Italy called Friulano.  It is most similar to a Sauvignon Blanc but tends to be more full bodied and has less acidity than a Sauvignon Blanc. The Terlato family is very well know in the industry and I go over their history and growth which has ultimately led them to creating an empire within the wine and spirits industry.

Robert Mondavi comes up because he was actually very close friends with the Terlato family. It's overall very impressive what this family has built. Tune in now as I try this grape varietal for the first time and give you my insight if it's worth the buy.

1:11 - Liquor Land II

1:45 - Introduction to today's wine

2:15 - Northeastern Italy

2:25 - Friulano, indigenous grape

4:20 - Terlato humble beginnings 

5:00 - Robert Mondavi

6:40 - Importing fine wines

8:08 - High yield grape

10:05 - Malolactic fermentation

11:25 - Olfactory analysis

12:11 - Tasting notes

14:00 - Best price at Liquor Land II

14:45 - Rating of the wine

Today's wine: Terlato Vineyards Friulano 2018 $16

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Random find at a bakery leads to either a great wine or a not so great wine LOL. Today we open up a random Malbec I came across at Milanos Bakery. This one is specifically from a micro-region called Agrelo located at the foot of the Andes in Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza Argentina.

As I open up this Malbec, I get into the topic of how daydreams are not distractions they are instructions. Usually, whatever we think about most is probably what we should be doing.  Everything happens for a reason and it all becomes clearer when you are fully aligned with yourself. Life is about unlocking levels and being ok with being a starter at the next level.  Start embracing each moment for what it's teaching you while using what you have learned to keep on aligning and becoming who you are.

Tune in now to listen to the full episode.

1:35 - Random wine with no information

2:00 - Details on today's wine

2:45 - Argelo, micro-region

5:25 - Daydreams are instructions

7:45 - Olfactory analysis

8:18 - Tasting notes

10:50 - Rating of the wine

11:45 - Everything is about alignment

12:40 - Unlocking life levels

14:40 - Everything comes at the perfect time

Today's wine: E Especial Class Malbec Reserva 2018 $21

(Milanos in Tamarac, FL)

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What is non-alcoholic wine (NA) or alcohol free wine? In this new episode, I open up an alcohol free French sparkling wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes and explain what it actually means when you drink a NA wine.

You may think this is just sparkling grape juice but I assure you it's not. It actually goes through the same vilification process that wine goes through, the only difference is the alcohol is taken out at the end.

Tune in now to get all the details on this process called vacuum distillation and see if this NA wine is worth the buy.

1:45 - Introduction to today's wine

2:45 - Sparkling grape juice

3:15 - Vacuum distillation 

5:25 - Background on the producer

7:20 - Sauvignon Blanc sparkling wine

8:50 - Visual analysis

9:10 - Olfactory analysis

9:55 - Tasting notes

12:35 - Rating of the NA wine

Today's wine: EthicDrinks Alcohol Free French Sparkling Wine $27

(Bought at Sprouts)

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