Wine Educate: Wine Lessons, Travel & WSET Study Prep – Details, episodes & analysis

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Wine Educate: Wine Lessons, Travel & WSET Study Prep

Joanne Close

Arts

Education

Frequency: 1 episode/5d. Total Eps: 118

Welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast, your ultimate guide to mastering wine through the lens of WSET wine courses and certifications. Whether you're a beginner exploring WSET Level 1 or preparing for the rigorous WSET Level 3 exam, this podcast is packed with insights tailored for every stage of your wine education journey. Learn wine tasting techniques using the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT), discover expert strategies for excelling in WSET essay practice, and dive into topics like food and wine pairing and career pathways in the wine industry. With episodes on professional wine education, tips for online wine classes, and behind-the-scenes stories from WSET exam preparation, we'll help you turn your passion for wine into expertise. Whether you're pursuing wine certification for personal growth or advancing your career as a sommelier or educator, the Wine Educate Podcast is here to guide you—one glass at a time. Subscribe now to gain the confidence to ace your WSET courses and elevate your appreciation of wine! This podcast is for you if you are asking questions such as: How do I study for WSET classes? How do I pass WSET Level 3? How do I pass WSET Theory? How do I pass WSET Tasting? How can I take WSET Level 1 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 1 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 2 course online? Where can I take WSET Level 3 course online? What are the WSET Level 2 study materials? How can I prepare for the WSET Level 3 exam? What wine certification programs are available? What are the best wine education podcasts? Where are wine tasting courses near me? How can I take an online wine education class? What are Wine and Spirit Education Trust certifications? How can I become a certified sommelier? What is a wine appreciation course? What wine education is for beginners? What are advanced wine studies? Can I study wine abroad? Can I study WSET in France? Can I study WSET in Europe? What are the top wine regions to visit? How can I find wine tasting tours? What are some WSET exam tips? What are some wine industry certifications? What are professional wine qualifications? What are some wine courses for enthusiasts? What is the WSET diploma program? What are the benefits of obtaining a WSET Level 1 certification? How can I prepare for the WSET Level 2 exam? What topics are covered in the WSET Level 3 course? Are there online courses available for WSET certifications? What is the difference between WSET and sommelier certifications? How long does it take to complete WSET Level 1? What are the costs associated with WSET Level 2 courses? Can I take WSET exams online? What career opportunities are available with a WSET Level 3 certification? How do I find WSET-approved course providers near me? What study materials are recommended for WSET Level 2? Are there practice exams available for WSET Level 3? What is the pass rate for WSET Level 2 exams? How does WSET certification benefit wine professionals? What are the prerequisites for enrolling in WSET Level 3? Can I retake the WSET exam if I don't pass on the first attempt? What is the format of the WSET Level 1 exam? Are there scholarships available for WSET courses? How does WSET certification compare to other wine education programs? What are the best resources for WSET Level 3 exam preparation? How many wines do you taste in WSET Level 2? Is WSET Level 3 difficult? What jobs can I get with a WSET certification? What is the difference between WSET and CMS (Court of Master Sommeliers)? How can I memorize wine regions for the WSET exam? Do I need WSET Level 1 before taking Level 2? What's the difference between WSET Level 2 and Level 3? How does blind tasting work in WSET exams? Is WSET certification worth it? What are the hardest parts of the WSET Level 3 exam? Can you skip WSET Level 1 and go straight to Level 2? What are the key sparkling wine styles covered in WSET Level 3? How do I apply the BLIC (Balance, Length, Intensity, Complexity) method? What are the key wine regions I need to know for WSET Level 3? How does soil type affect wine for WSET exams? What are the essential fortified wines to know for WSET Level 3? How do I prepare for the WSET Level 3 short-answer questions? What is BLIC in wine tasting, and how is it used in WSET? What's the best way to practice multiple-choice questions for WSET? What's the best way to take notes during a WSET wine tasting? What wines should I blind taste for WSET Level 3? How do I taste wine like a professional? What's the difference between young and mature wines? How do I recognize wine faults like cork taint or oxidation? Why do some wines taste buttery? What's the best way to aerate a wine before drinking? How do I know if a wine is corked? How do tannins in wine interact with food? What wines pair best with soft cheeses? How does sweetness in wine affect food pairings? How do I pair wine with vegetarian dishes? What's the best way to store wine at home? What is the ideal serving temperature for different types of wine? How do I recognize residual sugar in a wine? What does "legs" or "tears" mean in a wine glass? Why do sommeliers swirl wine in a glass? What's the best way to train my palate for wine tasting? What are the best food pairings for high-acid wines? What is volatile acidity, and how does it affect wine? What's the best way to decant an older wine? What are the best wine regions to visit in France? What's the best way to explore Champagne's vineyards? How do I book a private wine tour in Bordeaux? How do I find exclusive wine experiences while traveling? What are the best wine travel destinations for beginners? How do I pack wine for international travel? What are the best wineries to visit in Napa Valley? What are the top wine destinations for 2025? What is the best way to study for WSET Level 1? How many hours should I study for WSET Level 2? What wines should I taste for WSET Level 3 preparation? What happens if I fail a WSET exam? How do I register for a WSET course near me? What's the difference between WSET and ISG (International Sommelier Guild)? What is the best tasting technique for WSET blind tastings? Are WSET certifications worth it for casual wine lovers? What are the key wine laws I need to know for WSET exams? How do I properly assess wine structure for WSET tasting exams? What are the most common wine myths debunked? How do acidity, tannins, and alcohol impact wine balance? What are the best free resources for learning about wine? How does soil type affect wine flavors? What's the difference between a varietal wine and a blended wine? What is the pass rate for WSET Level 3? How do I describe primary, secondary, and tertiary aromas in WSET tasting notes? What are the best food and wine pairing resources for WSET students? How do I memorize key grape varieties for WSET exams? What's the best way to practice identifying wine acidity levels? What are the key differences between WSET and the Master of Wine (MW) program? What are the required passing scores for WSET Level 2 and Level 3? How does WSET Level 3 compare to Certified Sommelier exams? What are the best study apps for WSET students? How does terroir influence a wine's characteristics? What is the best way to write an essay answer for WSET Level 3? What's the best way to practice WSET multiple-choice questions? How do I improve my wine vocabulary for WSET exams? What are the most commonly tested wines in WSET blind tastings? How do I detect a faulty wine during a WSET tasting? How do I assess a wine's body in WSET tastings? What's the difference between WSET Level 3 and the WSET Diploma? What is the best method for retaining WSET study material? How do I apply WSET knowledge to a professional wine career? What are the best ways to prepare for the WSET Diploma? What is the most challenging part of WSET Level 3? What is the best wine tasting order for WSET practice? How do I improve my ability to recognize tannin structure? What's the best way to identify oak influence in wine? How do I recognize lees influence in sparkling wine? What's the best way to train my palate for blind tasting? How do I detect minerality in wine? What is the best way to compare Old World vs. New World wines? Why do some wines taste better after decanting? How does high-altitude viticulture affect wine flavors? What is volatile acidity, and how does it affect wine? How do different yeast strains affect wine flavor? What's the difference between oxidative and reductive winemaking? How do I build a wine tasting group for practice? What are the most common wine faults I should be able to recognize? How does wine temperature impact aroma perception? What are the best glassware choices for different wine styles? How do different pruning techniques affect wine quality? How do I balance fruit, acidity, and tannin when assessing wine? What is the difference between fruit intensity and ripeness? Why do some wines have floral aromas? What's the best way to cleanse your palate during a tasting? How do I recognize aged characteristics in white wines? What's the best way to understand texture in wine? How do I differentiate between different oak treatments? How does climate change impact grape growing and wine styles? What is the best way to learn about fortified wines? What's the best method for identifying residual sugar in wine? What are the main causes of bitterness in wine? How do I train myself to detect subtle wine aromas? What wines pair best with umami-rich foods? How does acidity in wine affect food pairings? What's the best wine to pair with sushi? How do I pair wine with chocolate-based desserts? What are the best wines to pair with barbecue? How do I pair wine with Asian cuisine? What's the best wine for spicy dishes? How do I choose a wine for a multi-course meal? What's the best way to pair wine with cheese? How do tannins in wine affect food texture? What are the most expensive wines ever sold? How do I host a wine tasting party at home? What's the best wine to bring to a dinner party? What are the best wine accessories for beginners? How do I tell if a wine will improve with age? What is the best way to prepare for the WSET Diploma? How many attempts do I get for a WSET exam? What's the best study method for WSET theory exams? How do I write a proper WSET tasting note? What are the key sparkling wine terms for WSET Level 3? How do I recognize a wine's alcohol level in WSET tastings? How do I improve my tasting speed for WSET exams? What are the most common mistakes people make in WSET exams? What's the difference between Grand Cru and Premier Cru in WSET? How do I assess wine balance in WSET tastings? What are the key fortified wine styles for WSET exams? What's the best way to identify tannins in a WSET tasting? How do I structure my answers for WSET Level 3 essays? How do I train my memory for WSET exams? What are the best WSET flashcard apps? How do I apply WSET tasting techniques to real-world situations? What are the key differences between WSET Level 3 and the WSET Diploma? How do I practice identifying acidity levels in wine? What is the best way to analyze a wine's length in WSET tastings? What are the key learning objectives of WSET Level 1? What are the top wine destinations in the world? How do I plan a wine tour in Tuscany? What are the best small wineries to visit in Napa Valley? How do I book exclusive wine tastings in Bordeaux How do I find off-the-beaten-path wineries? What's the best way to visit Champagne without a car? What are the best wine experiences in Spain? What are the top emerging wine regions? What's the best time of year for wine travel? How do I get a job in the wine industry? What are the best online wine business courses? How do I start a wine education business? What are the best wine careers outside of winemaking? How do I detect Brettanomyces (Brett) in wine? What's the best way to learn wine aroma descriptors? What's the best way to train my palate for acidity in wine? How does alcohol content impact wine perception? How do I assess the finish of a wine? How do I determine if a wine is faulty? What's the difference between flavor intensity and aroma intensity? How do I identify the effects of lees aging in wine? What's the difference between fruit ripeness and fruit character? How do I distinguish between different types of tannins? How does wine glass shape affect aroma perception? How do I assess a wine's potential for aging? What are the key differences between fresh fruit and dried fruit aromas? What's the difference between oak-derived and bottle-aged aromas? How do I develop my ability to detect spice characteristics in wine? What's the best way to compare acidity across different wines? How do I identify a wine that has undergone carbonic maceration? What are the best resources for improving wine tasting skills? What are the best wines to pair with grilled meats? How do I pair wine with Indian food? What's the best way to pair wine with creamy sauces? How do I choose a wine for salty foods? What wines complement citrus-based dishes? What are the best wines for pairing with umami flavors? How does residual sugar affect food pairings? What are the best wine pairings for Mediterranean cuisine? What are the best wine bars in Paris? What's the best way to tour wine country on a budget? How do I find wineries that allow barrel tastings? What are the best wine tours in Portugal? How do I get around Napa Valley without a car? What are the best wine regions for sustainable wineries? What are the best organic wineries to visit? What are the best small-production wineries in France? How do I start a career as a wine educator? What are the best social media platforms for wine professionals? How do I become a wine influencer? What are the best ways to network in the wine industry? What are the best continuing education programs for wine professionals? What are the most common career paths for WSET graduates? What's the best way to transition from hospitality to wine education? What's the difference between free-run juice and pressed juice? How does a winemaker control tannin extraction? What are the different types of fermentation vessels? How does sulfur dioxide (SO2) affect wine? What's the impact of canopy management on grape ripeness? How do winemakers achieve balance between sugar and acidity? What's the effect of concrete fermentation on wine flavor? What are the key differences between organic and biodynamic winemaking? How does carbonic maceration change the taste of wine? How do winemakers prevent oxidation in white wines? What are the best books for wine lovers? How do I build a personal wine collection? What's the best way to organize a home wine cellar? What are the most collectible wine regions? What's the best way to open a bottle of sparkling wine? What are the best podcasts about wine? What's the best way to host a wine and cheese night? What are the hottest wine trends for 2025? What's the best way to explore low-intervention wines? What's the best way to prepare for the WSET Level 1 exam? How many hours should I study for WSET Level 2? What are the key learning objectives for WSET Level 3? How do I create a WSET study schedule? What are the best online WSET study resources? How do I develop structured tasting notes for WSET exams? How do I improve my blind tasting skills for WSET exams? What is the format of the WSET Level 3 tasting exam? How can I improve my performance on the WSET theory exam? What are the differences between WSET Level 2 and Level 3 exams? How does WSET compare to the Court of Master Sommeliers? What are the most commonly tested wines in WSET Level 3? How do I assess a wine's balance in WSET tastings? What's the best way to recognize tertiary aromas in aged wines? What's the hardest part of WSET Level 3? Can I take WSET exams remotely? How do I know if I'm ready for the WSET Diploma? What's the best way to recognize high-q

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84. The Southern Rhône: Climate, Grapes, and Winemaking

Season 1 · Episode 84

jeudi 6 novembre 2025 • Duration 10:04

The Southern Rhône: Climate, Grapes, and Winemaking Resources & Links

Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter
(Weekly study tips, essay questions for Level 3 students, class announcements, and upcoming wine trips.)
Visit: www.wineeducate.com
Email: joanne@wineeducate.com

Episode Overview

Hello, and welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast and YouTube channel. This is Episode 84, and I'm your host, Joanne Close.

In the last few episodes, we've been exploring the Rhône Valley — first the Northern Rhône, and now turning our attention to the Southern Rhône. While they share the Rhône River, the Mistral wind, and a few similar grape varieties, that's largely where the similarities end. The Southern Rhône is broader, warmer, and more diverse — in geography, grapes, and wine styles.

This episode covers the key distinctions between the Northern and Southern Rhône, the major grape varieties (led by Grenache), and the unique climate and soil conditions that shape the wines of this region.

Key Topics Covered

1. Revisiting the Northern Rhône
The Northern Rhône is dominated by Syrah as its single red grape, supported by white varieties like Marsanne and Roussanne. The vines are planted on steep slopes overlooking the Rhône River and trained on individual stakes for wind protection from the fierce Mistral.

2. The Southern Rhône: An Overview
The Southern Rhône is expansive, flatter, and produces significantly more wine than the north. The Mediterranean climate brings mild winters and warm, dry summers, but also drought risk. This is the French region most impacted by climate change challenges, and limited irrigation is permitted with approval.

3. Grape Varieties
Grenache is the hero grape of the Southern Rhône, making up over half of the plantings. It thrives in heat, producing wines with generous red fruit, spice, and high alcohol. Grenache is trained as a bush vine (gobelet), kept low to the ground to protect from the Mistral.

Blending is essential to balance Grenache's alcohol and ripeness. The region's hallmark blends combine Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, often referred to as GSM blends. Supporting varieties include Carignan and Cinsault.

4. Soils and the Famous Galets
One of the region's most distinctive features is its galets roulés — round river stones found in areas like Châteauneuf-du-Pape. These stones absorb heat during the day and radiate it at night, helping grapes ripen more evenly. Joanne shares a personal story about finding her own Châteauneuf-du-Pape stone — a fun reminder of this classic Rhône feature.

5. White and Rosé Wines
While the region is best known for its reds, there are also notable rosés and white wines. Northern Rhône varieties like Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier continue southward, joined by Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Bourboulenc. The best whites are richly textured, full-bodied, and high in alcohol, with subtle fruit aromas and minimal new oak influence.

6. Winemaking Practices
There is no single Southern Rhône style — winemaking techniques vary widely. Fermentation can occur in stainless steel, concrete, or oak, and while new oak is occasionally used for premium wines, it's not the norm. Styles range from light and fruity to bold and meaty.

Importantly, two-thirds of Southern Rhône wines are made by cooperatives (co-ops), where growers pool resources and grapes to produce wines collectively.

What's Next

Next week's episode will explore Southern Rhône appellations in more detail — including key AOCs and what makes each distinct. Joanne also promises a Southern Rhône quiz, so listeners can test their knowledge.

If you haven't subscribed to the Wine Educate newsletter, now is the perfect time. Each issue includes study tips for Levels 1, 2, and 3 — and weekly essay questions for Level 3 students preparing for exams.

Visit www.wineeducate.com to subscribe and stay connected.

How to Contact Us

Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Website: www.wineeducate.com
Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/6648859973ba/newsletter

83. The Northern Rhône, Part 2: Saint-Joseph, Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage & Cornas

Season 1 · Episode 83

jeudi 30 octobre 2025 • Duration 11:32

The Northern Rhône, Part 2: Saint-Joseph, Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage & Cornas

Resources & Links

📬 Sign up for the newsletter: www.wineeducate.com/newsletter-signup
📧 Contact Joanne: joanne@wineeducate.com

Episode Overview

Hello, and welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast! This is Episode 83, and I'm your host, Joanne Close.

Today we're continuing our Northern Rhône series and diving into the middle and southern parts of the Northern Rhône—covering Saint-Joseph, Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, and Cornas.

It's late October here in New Orleans, and after a long hot stretch, it's finally cooling off just enough to think about sweaters—perfect weather to talk about Syrah and the Rhône Valley!

Key Takeaways Saint-Joseph

Stretches roughly 37 miles with diverse terrain and microclimates.
Awarded AOC status in 1956 and is the second-largest appellation in the Northern Rhône (about 1,370 hectares).
Produces predominantly red wines (84%) from Syrah, with some white blends of Marsanne and Roussanne.
Though up to 10% white grapes can be co-fermented with Syrah, this is rarely practiced.

Hermitage

The historic "crown jewel" of the Northern Rhône—tiny, just 138 hectares, but world-renowned.
Recognized as an AOC in 1936 and represents only 4% of Northern Rhône plantings.
Known for its single hillside divided into 20 distinct areas called lieux-dits, many nicknamed "La-Las."
Produces incredibly age-worthy Syrah wines (20–50 years) and remarkable white Marsanne–Roussanne blends that are among the longest-lived dry whites in the world.
Stay tuned—Hermitage deserves its own full episode soon.

Pro Tip: Don't overlook the white wines of the Northern Rhône! Marsanne and Roussanne blends are often beautifully complex and well-priced.

Crozes-Hermitage

The largest AOC in the Northern Rhône (est. 1937), accounting for about 41% of production.
Surrounds Hermitage but covers a much wider range of terroirs, leading to variable quality.
Mostly red wines (Syrah) with a small amount of whites.
Technically can include up to 15% Marsanne and Roussanne, though in practice this is rarely done.
A great region for excellent-value Rhône Syrah—ask your local wine shop for recommendations.

Cornas

AOC since 1938, and only 155 hectares—small but mighty.
The name Cornas comes from the Celtic term for "burnt earth," referencing the south-facing granite slopes that trap heat and create a warm microclimate.
Produces 100% Syrah—powerful, full-bodied reds that reflect their sun-drenched terroir.
Locals call it an "island of the South in the North."

Study Notes

If you're studying for WSET Level 2 or 3, these regions build on one another:

Remember that Syrah is the only permitted red grape in the Northern Rhône.
Marsanne and Roussanne are the two key white grapes replacing Viognier as we move south.
Co-fermentation is allowed in several appellations but rarely practiced today.

Wine Educate Updates

I'm currently working on a WSET Level 3 Membership, which will include deeper dives into specific appellations and winemaking techniques—Hermitage will definitely be featured!

If you're interested, make sure you're on the newsletter list. If you've had trouble signing up, just email me directly at joanne@wineeducate.com—I respond personally.

Closing Thoughts

We've now wrapped up the Northern Rhône. Yes, there are a few tiny AOCs we didn't cover, but those aren't emphasized in the WSET Level 2 or 3 materials.

The goal here is to add texture and depth to your study, helping you understand the context behind the textbook facts without getting lost in the weeds.

As we head into Halloween weekend, enjoy the cooler weather and maybe open a bottle of Rhône Syrah. My daughter is dressing up as the evil Tooth Fairy, and I'll be crafting about a hundred bloody teeth—so wish me luck!

Next week, we head south to explore the Southern Rhône.

Happy studying, and cheers until next time!

74. Amarone & Recioto: The Passito Wines & Laws of Valpolicella Explained

Season 1 · Episode 74

mardi 9 septembre 2025 • Duration 12:28

Today, we're heading to Northeast Italy, into the Veneto, to explore Valpolicella—a region whose wines feature prominently in both WSET Level 2 and Level 3. While you may not think "Valpolicella" sounds familiar, chances are you've heard of or even tried Amarone, one of its most famous styles.

Valpolicella produces a wide range of wines, from light and easy-drinking reds to powerful, age-worthy wines made with partially dried grapes. In this episode, we'll unpack the different appellations, key grape varieties, and unique winemaking techniques that make this region so important to understand for your studies.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The geography of Valpolicella, located just outside Verona in the foothills of the Lessini Mountains.
The main grapes: Corvina (the star of the show), along with Corvinone, Rondinella, and Molinara.
The difference between wines made from fresh grapes versus those made with the appassimento method (partially drying grapes before fermentation).
The dry styles: Valpolicella DOC and Valpolicella Classico DOC.
The sweet and powerful wines: Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG and how it paved the way for Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG.
The story of Amarone's "accidental" birth and its rise to international fame.
The Ripasso method, where Valpolicella wine is "re-passed" over Amarone skins, creating the so-called "Baby Amarone."

By the end of this episode, you'll have a much clearer grasp of the styles, rules, and labeling terms that often confuse students—and you'll be better prepared to recognize how these wines show up in WSET exam questions.

Resources & Links

Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter for weekly study tips, class updates, and practice essay questions. www.wineeducate.com/newsletter-signup
Catch up on Episode 72 for an overview of Italian wine laws.

Next time, we'll head back to Piedmont to explore a more off-the-beaten-path region, Valle d'Aosta. Stay tuned!

73. Barolo & Barbaresco: Wine Laws at the WSET Level 3 Level

Season 1 · Episode 73

jeudi 4 septembre 2025 • Duration 16:58

Barolo & Barbaresco: Wine Laws at the WSET Level 3 Level

Welcome back to the Wine Educate Podcast, where we explore WSET education, study tips, and practical advice for wine enthusiasts and professionals. I'm your host, Joanne Close, and this is episode 73. Today, we're diving into two of Italy's most legendary regions: Barolo and Barbaresco, through the lens of WSET Level 3 wine laws.

These two Nebbiolo-based DOCGs may sit just two miles apart, but their histories, elevations, soils, and styles each tell a fascinating story. Barolo spans about 2,000 hectares, while Barbaresco is much smaller at just 677 hectares. Both regions are defined by steep south-facing slopes, variations in altitude, and unique mesoclimates that make understanding their laws and vineyard classifications essential for Level 3 students.

In this episode, we'll cover:

The growth of Barolo's vineyard land (including the 50% increase between 1999–2013) and what it means for quality.
Barolo's DOCG rules, from 100% Nebbiolo to its strict minimum aging requirements (38 months, with 18 in wood).
The controversies between traditional and modern producers in the 1990s and how styles have evolved.
Barbaresco's smaller size, earlier ripening Nebbiolo, and how the Tanaro River influences its style.
Why Barbaresco requires only 26 months of aging, and the logic behind the January release date.
The role of villages, named vineyards (crus), and labeling terms that help you identify the best wines.
How Alba DOC and Langhe DOC wines offer tremendous value compared to their more famous neighbors.

I'll also share some of my own travel experiences in the region—from tasting unforgettable wines to hearing firsthand about the challenges of soaring land and housing prices for local winemaking families.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer picture of how Barolo and Barbaresco's wine laws shape their styles, reputations, and market values.

📌 Next up: On Tuesday, we'll shift focus to Valpolicella and unpack Amarone, Ripasso, and Recioto—another region where wine laws really drive style.

72. Italian Wine Laws at the WSET Level 2 Level

Season 1 · Episode 72

mardi 2 septembre 2025 • Duration 10:48

Resources & Links

How to Contact Us

Email: joanne@wineeducate.com Website: www.wineeducate.com Instagram: @wineeducate

Hello and welcome to the Wine Educate Podcast, where we explore WSET education, study tips, and practical advice for wine enthusiasts and professionals. I'm your host, Joanne Close, and this is Episode 72.

Last week in the newsletter, I asked what wine laws you wanted me to cover next, and over 75% of you said Piedmont. But before we dive into that beautiful (and complex!) region, it's important to first look at Italy's wine laws as a whole. Understanding the bigger framework will make learning regions like Piedmont much easier.

In this episode, I'll cover:

Italy's geography and climate – stretching across varied latitudes, mountain ranges, and volcanic soils.
The incredible grape diversity – over 350 authorized grape varieties and potentially hundreds more still being identified.
The wine law system – from the EU's PDO/PGI framework to Italy's own DOC, DOCG, and IGT designations.
History of Italian wine laws – why Italy was later than France to adopt these systems, and how they evolved from the 1960s through the 1990s.
Key labeling terms – what Classico means (think historic heartland sites) and how Riserva indicates longer aging.

This episode will give you a solid foundation so when we get into regions like Barolo, Barbaresco, Valpolicella, Alto Piemonte, and Valle d'Aosta, the details will click into place.

If you're not yet on the Wine Educate newsletter, make sure to sign up at wineeducate.com – it's where I share extra study tips and give you a say in which regions we cover next.

On Thursday, we'll start with Barolo and Barbaresco, two of the most iconic DOCGs in Italy. See you then!

71. Wine Laws of Burgundy: Côte Chalonnaise & Mâconnais

Season 1 · Episode 71

jeudi 28 août 2025 • Duration 10:17

Resources & Links

How to Contact Us

Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Website: www.wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

Episode 71 – Wine Laws of Burgundy: Côte Chalonnaise & Mâconnais

In this episode of the Wine Educate Podcast, we conclude our Burgundy wine law series with two often-overlooked but fascinating regions: the Côte Chalonnaise and the Mâconnais. These southern Burgundy appellations may not always command the same prestige as the Côte d'Or, but they deliver remarkable value and unique expressions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

We'll cover:

The geography and elevation of the Côte Chalonnaise and how it impacts ripening and wine style.
Notable appellations including Rully, Mercurey, Givry, Montagny, and Bouzeron (yes, it's as fun to say as it sounds).
How wines from these regions compare to their Côte d'Or neighbors—sometimes lighter, sometimes rustic, but often great value.
The history and expansion of the Mâconnais, where Chardonnay dominates, Gamay sneaks in, and rolling hills create diversity in vineyard conditions.
Key appellations such as Mâcon-Villages, Saint-Véran, and the star of the region: Pouilly-Fuissé, which gained Premier Cru status as recently as 2020.
Why these regions represent "sneaky deals" for wine students and enthusiasts alike.

As always, I connect these details back to the WSET Level 3 framework so you'll know exactly what to focus on for exam preparation.

Next week, by popular request, we begin exploring the wine laws of Northern Italy, starting with Piedmont.

70. The Wine Laws of Burgundy – Côte d'Or & The Importance of Slope

Season 1 · Episode 70

mardi 26 août 2025 • Duration 13:45

70. The Wine Laws of Burgundy – Côte d'Or & The Importance of Slope

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Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Website: www.wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

Today's episode continues our Burgundy series with a focus on the Côte d'Or—and more specifically, the role that slope plays in vineyard quality and classification. This concept is key not just in Burgundy but also in other cool to moderate regions like Germany's Mosel and Alsace.

We'll cover:

Why elevation matters (200–400 meters in the Côte d'Or)
How soil, drainage, and frost risk change from top to bottom of the slope
Why mid-slope vineyards are home to many Premier Cru and Grand Cru sites
How aspect (east/southeast exposure) influences ripening in this northerly climate
The Côte de Nuits vs. the Côte de Beaune, and why nearly all red Grand Crus are in the north and nearly all white Grand Crus are in the south
Key villages and their most famous crus, including Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanée, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Aloxe-Corton, Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, and Chassagne-Montrachet
Newer classifications like Bourgogne Côte d'Or AOC and how they fit into the picture

This is a dense one—but understanding slope and geography will make Burgundy's wine laws far less intimidating.

Next up: we'll wrap up our Burgundy laws series with Chalonnais and the Mâconnais on Thursday.

69. The History of Burgundy Wine Laws: How Monks and the Napoleonic Code Shaped Today's Vineyards

Season 1 · Episode 69

jeudi 21 août 2025 • Duration 07:43

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Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Website: www.wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

Welcome to episode 69 of the Wine Educate Podcast. This week, we're continuing our Burgundy series, focusing on the fascinating history behind the region's wine laws. Understanding this history really helps explain why Burgundy looks the way it does today—with its extreme fragmentation and complex vineyard ownership.

We start by looking at the early role of the monks. The monks not only planted and maintained the vineyards, but also took careful notes over centuries. Their records helped identify which parcels produced the best wines, laying the foundation for today's classification system of Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites.

Then we move to the Napoleonic Code. After the French Revolution, vineyard land was redistributed from the church and nobility to the people. Under Napoleonic inheritance laws, land had to be divided equally among children. Over generations, vineyards were literally sliced into smaller and smaller parcels—sometimes down to just a single row of vines. This made it nearly impossible for individual growers to make and bottle wine on their own, paving the way for the rise of négociants.

We also compare this with Bordeaux, where wealth and resources allowed estates to avoid such division by creating shares, keeping vineyards intact under large châteaux. This is a key reason why Burgundy and Bordeaux evolved so differently.

Finally, we take a closer look at Chablis, adding another layer to our Burgundy pyramid:

Petit Chablis – entry-level wines from less favorable sites (often cooler or higher).
Chablis AOC – classic Chardonnay from the region.
Chablis Premier Cru – 79 sites exist, though not all are widely used on labels.
Chablis Grand Cru – one appellation, but divided into seven named climats, each appearing on labels.

Next week, we'll dive into the Côte d'Or and one of the most important concepts in wine education: slope. We'll explore why the position of vines on a hillside matters so much, not just in Burgundy but in many of the world's great wine regions.

68. WSET Level 2: Intro to Burgundy Wine Laws and Classifications

Season 1 · Episode 68

mardi 19 août 2025 • Duration 11:51

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Sign up for the Wine Educate Newsletter: www.wineeducate.com/newsletter-signup
Visit our website: www.wineeducate.com

How to Contact Us:

Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

In this episode, Joanne introduces the fascinating world of Burgundy (or Bourgogne) and unpacks the wine laws at the WSET Level 2 level. This is the start of a four-part series on Burgundy, where history, geography, and classification come together to shape one of the most famous wine regions in the world.

You'll learn about:

How Burgundy compares to Bordeaux in size and production.
The climate differences between Chablis, the Côte d'Or, and the Mâconnais.
Why Burgundy's geography and soil diversity create such nuance in its wines.
The pyramid of Burgundy's appellation system: Regional, Village, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru.
Key appellations to know for WSET Level 2, including Chablis, Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, Gevrey-Chambertin, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Beaune, Pommard, Mâcon, and Pouilly-Fuissé.
The ongoing debate of "Burgundy" vs. "Bourgogne" — which one should we use?

Burgundy may look deceptively simple—white wines are Chardonnay, red wines are Pinot Noir—but this episode shows why its classification system makes it one of the most complex and fascinating regions to study.

Stay tuned for the next episode in this series, where we'll take a deeper dive into Burgundy's history and how it connects to today's wine laws.

67. The Story Behind Bordeaux's Famous (and Controversial) Wine Classifications

Season 1 · Episode 67

jeudi 14 août 2025 • Duration 13:59

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How to Contact Us

Email: joanne@wineeducate.com
Website: www.wineeducate.com
Instagram: @wineeducate

If you have questions about upcoming WSET classes, coaching or trips book a 15 min free discovery call with Joanne! https://calendly.com/joanne-wineeducate/wset-discovery-call

In this episode, we continue our exploration of Bordeaux wine laws—this time at the WSET Level 3 level—focusing on the complex and sometimes controversial classification systems. Unlike appellations, which are based on geography, grape varieties, and winemaking rules, classifications rank individual estates (châteaux), functioning more like brands. This distinction, along with changes in ownership and vineyard size over time, has created ongoing debates about fairness and relevance.

We cover:

The 1855 Classification – Commissioned for the Paris Universal Exhibition, ranked by price rather than tasting, and intended to be permanent. Includes the famous upgrade of Château Mouton Rothschild after decades of lobbying.
Cru Bourgeois – Unique to the Médoc, established in 1932, and reshaped multiple times due to controversy and lawsuits. Now reviewed every 5 years.
Graves Classification (Pessac-Léognan) – Separate lists for red and white wines, with no ranking, and all classified châteaux now located within Pessac-Léognan.
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classification – The only classification within the appellation system, intended to be reclassified every 10 years, but plagued with disputes, lawsuits, and recent high-profile withdrawals.

If you're studying for Level 3, understanding the history, purpose, and controversies behind these systems can help you navigate exam questions and connect the theory to real-world wine market dynamics.

Next week, we move from Bordeaux to Burgundy—another region where wine laws and classifications are both fascinating and essential for your WSET studies.