The Sipping Point: Wine, Food & More! – Details, episodes & analysis

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including a few spaces still left in her Tuscany tour this October!

In this engaging conversation, Joe Roberts and Laurie Forster unpack the current state of the wine industry, from shifting consumption trends and health-conscious choices to the rise of non-alcoholic options. They explore what’s bubbling up right now—literally—with sparkling wines, alternative white varieties, lighter reds, and why Gamay and Beaujolais may be poised for a serious moment. Along the way, Joe shares insights from his latest book, How to Win at Wine, reinforcing a refreshingly simple message: wine should be enjoyed with curiosity and confidence, not confusion or intimidation. It’s a smart, approachable conversation for anyone who wants to drink better, stress less, and actually enjoy what’s in their glass. 

Featured Wines

Segura Viudas Heredad Brut Reserva Cava, Penedes, Spain $30

Mary Taylor Anjou Blanc, Loire Valley, France $14,69

Joseph Mellot Chinon, Loire Valley, France $18

Gilles Coperet Morgon Cru Beaujolais, Burgundy, France $22

Check out Joe's website at OneWineDude.com to find out more about his book including How to Win at Wine  

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

In this episode, Laurie Forster speaks with Alice Tétienne from the House of Henriot about the rich history of the champagne house, founded by a woman in 1808. They delve into the art of blending different grape varieties and crus to create unique champagnes, including the signature Brut Souverain and Blanc de Blancs. Alice shares insights on the challenges posed by climate change, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in viticulture.

Takeaways

• Henriot respects the history and terroir of its vineyards.
• Blending different crus is essential to creating unique champagnes.
• Climate change poses significant challenges to champagne production.
• Sustainable practices are crucial for the future of viticulture.
• The choice of glassware can greatly enhance the tasting experience.
• Vintage champagnes require long aging and careful monitoring.

Wines Tasted
Henriot Brut Souverain
Henriot Blanc de Blancs
Henriot Cuvee Hemera 2008

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

Laurie's Bubbly Bash Wine Pack has been released! Order yours for her upcoming tasting or to enjoy with friends and family at the holidays and beyond: www.thewinecoachclub.com 

Summary

In this episode, Alessandra Casini Bindi Sergardi shares her family's rich legacy in winemaking, rooted in Tuscany since 1349. She discusses the unique characteristics of Chianti Classico wines, including the importance of Sangiovese grapes, and the significance of food pairing in Italian culture. The conversation also delves into the distinctions between Chianti Classico, Riserva, and Gran Selezione wines, highlighting their aging processes and flavor profiles. Alessandra emphasizes the role of women in her family's history and the importance of sustainability in winemaking, while also touching on the heritage of Nobile di Montepulciano wines.

Takeaways

• Alessandra's family has been producing wine since 1349.
• Chianti Classico is the first defined wine territory in the world.
• Sangiovese grapes express the land's characteristics.
• Wine is an integral part of Italian meals and culture.
• Riserva wines must age at least 24 months before release.
• Gran Selezione represents the highest quality in Chianti Classico.
• The black rooster emblem signifies membership in the Chianti Classico consortium.
• Women have played a crucial role in the family's winemaking legacy.

Wines Tasted

Bindi Sergardi La Ghirlanda Chianti Classico DOCG

Bindi Sergardi I Colli Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG

Bindi Sergardi Mocenni 89 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG

Check out the Bindi Sergardi website for more about the winery, Alessandra and her family& more!

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

This week we talking to Wine Entertainment superstar Rex Pickett author of Sideways—the book, the musical and of course the iconic movie. Then we’ll find out about the City Winery popping up around the country where they create the perfect pairing of food, wine and music! His latest novel is Sideways 3 Chile and continues the story of Miles to South America.

The post Wine & Entertainment appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

This week Laurie talked to Al Spoler about some of his favorite wines from the Rhone Valley and a river cruise where you can tour this amazing region with him!

The post Wines of the Rhone Valley appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

Listen in as Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach talks team building with wine, tastes a few great Spanish wines and breaks down the recent new of arsenic in wine.

The post Wine Teambuilding, Spanish Wine & More! appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

This week we are featuring two great Roses that are perfect for your Easter Ham! Laurie found these gems on her recent trip to Charleston Wine & Food Festival where she met some amazing winemakers that had just the perfect wines for the upcoming holiday.

The post Rose for Easter and Beyond! appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

Then Laurie catches up with Sonoma Winemaker Greg La Follette at the 2015 Charleston Food & Wine Festival to find how he makes world class wines that reflect the beauty of the vineyards.

The post La Follette Winery appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

This week we are on location at The Avalon Theatre in beautiful downtown Easton talking to Marketing Director Tim Weigand…we’ll taste a couple of the delicious wines you can sip while enjoying all types of entertainment from Theatre, Comedy, Concerts and more!

The post Avalon Theatre & Jim Brickman appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

This week on The Sipping Point Radio we are gearing up for St Patrick’s Day with John Resuing of Bad Decisions. We’ll taste 2 of his favorite Irish Whiskies and he’ll introduce us to a special St Patrick’s Day cocktail he created especially for us on The Sipping Point.

The post Irish Whisky for St Patrick’s Day appeared first on Laurie Forster | Wine Expert | Wine Coach | Wine Speaker.

Support the show

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster