At just 24, Toru Takamatsu made history by becoming the youngest person to achieve the coveted Master Sommelier title — a distinction few can claim at any age. But his journey to this rarefied status was anything but easy. We explore what first ignited his passion for wine, the hurdles he faced along the way, and how his drive and determination propelled him to the top. Now, as he embarks on a new chapter at Domaine Takahiko, Toru is looking beyond the world of sommeliers and into the realm of winemaking. We discuss his work with Takahiko Soga, the philosophy behind the vineyard, and what kind of wine he hopes to produce in the future.

Join us as we delve into the career of one of the wine industry’s most promising talents, and gain insight into what it takes to master a craft, break boundaries, and shape the future of wine.

Follow his journey on Instagram at @toru_95_ms

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

 What if the secret to a perfect cup of tea lies not just in the brewing, but in the centuries-old traditions that shape it? In this episode, we welcome Shunan Teng, the visionary founder of Tea Drunk in New York City. 

In this episode, we delve into the rich tapestry of Chinese tea with Shunan Teng, founder and CEO of Tea Drunk, a renowned tea house in New York City. Shunan has become a pivotal figure in the tea community, dedicated to preserving the ancient traditions of Chinese tea while educating a new generation of enthusiasts. Each year, she travels to historic tea mountains in China, collaborating with heritage farmers to harvest and craft teas that honor centuries-old practices.

Join us as we explore the history of tea in China, from its ancient origins to its modern-day significance. We will examine the three most popular types of Chinese tea and the unique characteristics that define them. Additionally, we’ll discuss the concept of terroir and its impact on flavor profiles, as well as the intriguing market dynamics of Puer Tea.

As we navigate this complex world, Shunan will also address common misconceptions about Chinese tea in the West, providing clarity and insight. Prepare to be immersed in the art and science of tea, where tradition and modernity converge in a steaming cup.

 Find out more at teadrunk.com

 Want to learn about tea? Visit teadrunkacademy.com

Stay Connected:

Instagram: instagram.com/teadrunk

YouTube: youtube.com/teadrunknyc

Facebook: facebook.com/teadrunknyc

Twitter: twitter.com/teadrunknyc

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/tea-drunk

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

 In today’s episode, the second of our two-part series, we confront a pressing question: amid the current slowdown in the Chinese market, does Bordeaux still present an attractive opportunity for producers?

Once viewed as a burgeoning frontier for wine, China now reveals a complex and shifting landscape. We are joined by Chloe Wu, Founder of Advinture Trading, to dissect this evolving market. Together, we will examine how Bordeaux can strategically engage younger consumers and women, endeavoring to reshape its image in the face of changing preferences and distribution channels.

Chloe’s expertise is underscored by her 2014 postgraduate essay, "Internationalization Strategies - Ensuring the Sustainability of Bordeaux Wine Exports," later published as a book in France in 2016. This work provides practical insights into internationalization strategies, using Bordeaux as a case study for sustainable export practices.

In this episode, we will explore the critical factors that will dictate Bordeaux's long-term viability in China. From harnessing data and digital marketing to innovative product offerings and sustainable value chains, the path ahead demands both agility and foresight.

Join us as we navigate this multifaceted issue, seeking to understand how Bordeaux can not only adapt to current challenges but also leverage the opportunities that persist in one of the world’s most significant wine markets.

Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn to follow her adventure! 

Company website: www.advinturetrading.com

Mail: [email protected]

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In this two part episode, we discuss Bordeaux’s remarkable growth in China, highlighting the key figures and success stories that underscore its impact in this dynamic market. Chloe explains the innovative marketing and branding strategies employed by Bordeaux producers, emphasizing their shift from a luxury image to one of accessibility. We also explore the critical role played by the Bordeaux Wine Council in supporting this transition.

As we delve deeper, Chloe addresses the challenges currently faced by Bordeaux merchants. She outlines the competitive landscape, particularly the pressure from other wine-producing regions, as well as the economic challenges, including overstock issues and the persistent threat of counterfeit products. Additionally, we discuss the implications of trade tensions on export strategies.

Today we are joined by Chloe Wu, the founder of Advinture Trading, a liquor agency specializing in fine wines. Chloe shares her inspiring journey from Sichuan, China, to France, where she developed her expertise in the wine industry. With a background that includes significant roles in the beverage sector, Chloe launched Advinture in 2023, driven by her passion for exceptional wines.

Connect with Chloe on LinkedIn to follow her adventure! 

Company website: www.advinturetrading.com

Mail: [email protected]

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

You might be surprised to learn that in the world of caviar, China has emerged as a dominant force, producing half of the global supply. 

In today’s episode, Reisa Jiang, the co- founder of Astrea Caviar takes us on a journey from the tranquil ponds of Yunnan, China to the delicate art of caviar processing. 

Together, we will uncover the story behind China's rise as a global caviar powerhouse and uncover the nuances of Chinese caviar, its diverse sturgeon varieties, and the techniques and location for production.  

Learn more about Asrea Caviar here and follow on Instagram @astrea_caviar

Follow Reisa’s journey on Instagram @reizzj and if you’re a wine enthusiast, follow her winery up in Ningxia for a sneak peak into the world of Chinese wine @thestartingpoint_wine

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Jackson, Master of Wine and author of the acclaimed book "Beyond Flavour: The Indispensable Handbook to Blind Wine Tasting." Nick shares his personal journey to becoming a Master of Wine and the pivotal moment when he realized the importance of focusing on a wine's structure rather than just its flavors.

Nick's wine career began at the University of Cambridge, where he was a member of the successful Cambridge University blind wine tasting team. After earning a PhD in Theology, he worked as an auction specialist at Sotheby's in London and later as a buyer for Sotheby's Wine retail store in New York. In 2018, Nick left Sotheby's to start his own fine wine advisory business, Vintage Variation LLC, where he advises private clients, retailers, and other wine businesses.

In "Beyond Flavour," Nick delves into the concept of tasting wines based on their structure and texture, rather than relying solely on flavors. He argues that assessing a wine's acid structure for whites and tannin structure for reds is a more reliable indicator of a wine's identity, especially as producers and regions continue to push the boundaries of traditional winemaking. Nick shares insights on how to navigate the nuances of tannin profiles in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, as well as the challenges of distinguishing Chardonnay and Riesling from specific regions. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the art of blind wine tasting and how they can embark on this tasting journey with Nick's guidance and his book "Beyond Flavour."

Find out more about Nick: Vintage Variation

Get your hands on Beyond Flavour: Wine Tasting by Structure on Amazon

Connect on Instagram  @nickjacksn

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In this episode of the Bottled in China Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Andrew Jefford, an acclaimed journalist, poet, and writer whose expertise spans the diverse realms of wine, whisky, travel, and perfume.

Jefford is a Contributing Editor and columnist for both Decanter and The World of Fine Wine, as well as the Academic Advisor to the Wine Scholar Guild and Co-Chair of Decanter World Wine Awards. He has also broadcast extensively on wine, tea, and other subjects for BBC Radio. With twelve books and guides to his name, including "The New France," "Whisky Island," and his latest work, "Drinking with the Valkyries," Jefford has firmly established himself as a leading voice in the drink and publishing industries.

In this in-depth interview, we delve into the defining moments that propelled Jefford's rise to recognition, and he shares a candid perspective on the intensely competitive environment of the industry. Listeners will gain valuable insights and lessons from Jefford's storied career, which has spanned over three decades.

Additionally, we explore the impact of artificial intelligence on wine writing, discussing whether it is perceived as a threat or a valuable tool for writers like Jefford. 

Join us as we gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of wine journalism and publishing.

Four our listeners, we have great news, Andrew has shared a link and code to save 15% on wine books with code ANDREW15

https://academieduvinlibrary.com/collections/shop

*Valid for most titles on our website excludes ebooks and some distribution books*

Connect with Andrew on x/threads/mastodon: @andrewcjefford and Instagram: @andrewcjefford

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Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

 In this episode, we delve into the world of wine auctions and the flourishing fine wine scene in Asia. 

Today we are joined by Adam Bilbey, Christie's Global Head of Wine and Spirits. Drawing from his wealth of experience in Asia, we explore the notable shifts in fine wine collecting across the regions and the emerging trends that shape this dynamic market.

From its origins in London in 1766, Christie's Auctions has made a lasting impact on the global wine market. Today, we uncover the secrets behind this prestigious institution's successful foray into the Asian market and examine its navigation of this vibrant landscape.

Before joining Christie's, Adam Bilbey held the position of head of Wine and Spirits at Sotheby's Asia, orchestrating remarkable sales that included Transcendent Wines, The Philanthropist's Cellar, and the groundbreaking Wines from the Cellar of Joseph Lau. 

Our conversation takes us to the heart of fine wine consumption in Asia, where we shed light on Asia's evolving collecting habits. 

Adam Bilbey goes beyond the surface to reveal exciting opportunities for collectors beyond the realm of the most famous wine names and uncovering hidden gems.

Finally, authenticity is a paramount concern in the world of fine wine, and we address this important topic in our discussion. Adam Bilbey imparts straightforward tips and advice on how aspiring wine enthusiasts can embark on their own cellar journey, ensuring that their collection reflects their personal taste and preferences.

Find out more about Christie's Wine & Spirits Wine & Spirits | Christie's (christies.com)

Start your cellar here & find out more about the upcoming Avery Collection discussed in the show.

Follow on Instagram @ Christiesasia

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 

Find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In 1996, Don St Pierre Jr joined forces with his father, Don St Pierre Sr, to establish ASC Fine Wines. Over the years, their company has grown to become one of the largest importers of high-quality wine in China.

Today, we delve into the formidable obstacles encountered while introducing fine wines to the Chinese market and the fascinating stories of navigating the intricacies of conducting business in China during the mid-nineties.

We also dive into cherished memories of Don St Pierre Sr's remarkable character and enduring impact in the industry.  

Finally, we reflect on the dynamic evolution of the Chinese wine market and envision how ASC would reinvent itself in today's changing wine industry. 

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 

Find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Yiannis Karakasis, a renowned Master of Wine based in Athens, Greece.

With his expertise and passion for Greek wines, Yiannis has been instrumental in introducing the world to the hidden treasures of this ancient winemaking region.

In our conversation, we delve into his journey and what makes Greek wines so unique and worth exploring. We also discuss his latest ebook, "Greek Wine Explained," and the valuable insights it offers to readers.

Yiannis takes us behind the scenes of the 50 Great Greek Wines Awards and shares a sneak peek of some wine styles that will captivate even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.

Yiannis Karakasis MW is not only a Master of Wine, but also a prolific writer, consultant, and wine educator. He is the creator of the influential blog www.karakasis.mw, which has been instrumental in promoting Greek wines to a global audience. In 2019, he founded both the 50 Great Greek Wines initiative and the First Growth Wine School in Cyprus. Yiannis serves as a consultant for various businesses in Greece and abroad, and his is also the author of “The Wines of Santorini”, a book that was long listed for the Andre Simon Awards.  Recently, he published a digital report on Greek wine titled “Greek Wine Explained 2024”. 

Connect with Yiannis on Instagram @yianniskarasismw

Download his new e-book: Greek Wine Explained 2024

Visit his website: https://www.karakasis.mw

Learn more about 50 Great Greek Wines here

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 

Find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china 

Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes! 
Subscribe to Bottled in China to follow the journey!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com