Welcome back, wine friends! This is Part Two of our deep dive into Ukrainian wine. In this episode, we continue the journey with Sera Crow, a doctor of chemistry turned wine communicator and WSET diploma holder. Born and raised in Ukraine, Sarah is a passionate ambassador for Ukrainian wine.

We go beyond the grapes to explore Ukraine’s main wine regions, from the Black Sea coast to the Romanian and Hungarian borders. We also discuss the challenges winemakers face, the impact of recent conflicts, and their resilience through innovation—like infusing wines with botanicals (yes, I’ll be trying a wine-based mojito!). Finally, we look ahead to the future of Ukrainian wine tourism. 

If you want to skip ahead:

03.30: The Crimea and Black sea wine regions and their history 

06.00: Prince Troubetzkoy Winery, Ukraine's oldest winery, destroyed by Russians  

07.30: Wineries such as Beyush Winery based on a sanctuary

09.09: The Transcarpathia Wine Region (the western most region of Ukraine)

10.00: Carpatian Sekt Rosé made from the Blaufränkisch grape by Chateau Chizay

11.16: Preference for sweeter styles in Ukraine due to Soviet Union times

14.00: Chateau Chizay’s infused wines, like Pinot Grigio with Lime and Mint Ukrainian Wine Company £14 

16.30: Foraging culture in Ukraine for herbal teas and infused wines.

19.06: Developing wine regions around Kyiv

21.26: Traveling to Ukraine's Wineries - visiting Odessa, Lviv, and the Carpathians for unique wine experiences.

26.00: Resilience of Ukrainian Winemakers and continuing their work despite challenges.

27.30: Ukrainian Wine Export Efforts

29.15: Emphasis on Ukrainian wines that stand out for their quality and unique styles.

Please find link below to learn more about purchasing Ukrainian wine, depending on where you are in the world:

UK

Europe

USA

And follow Sera in Instagram HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello and welcome back wine friends! In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of Ukrainian wine with Sera Crow, a doctor of chemistry turned wine communicator and WSET Diploma holder. Born in Ukraine and now living in the UK, Sera shares her insights as a Ukrainian ambassador, highlighting the country’s unique grape varieties, winemaking traditions, and growing natural wine movement. We take a closer look at Odessa Black and Sukholimanskyi, two of Ukraine’s most famous grape crossings, as well as Telti-Kuruk, an ancient indigenous white grape with a history that spans thousands of years. Along the way, we also discuss unexpected varieties thriving in Ukraine, including Pinotage, Albariño, and Aligoté, and taste a biodynamic wine from an urban Ukrainian winery. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about this emerging wine region, this episode is packed with discoveries you won’t want to miss.

If you want to skip ahead:

00.00: Sera Crow shares her journey and passion for Ukrainian wines.

05.00: The Evolution of Ukrainian Wine – From Soviet-era perceptions to post-2014 growth

07.00: The Impact of Crimea’s Occupation

08.00: Journey in the UK Wine Scene

10.00: The Rise of Ukrainian Wine Exports

11.00: Expanding Ukrainian Wine Presence Internationally - reaching the UK, EU, US, and Japan.

13.00: What Makes Ukrainian Wines Unique?

16.00: Notable Ukrainian Wineries and Wines – Spotlight on Beykush, Kolonist, and the rise of experimental wines like Pet-Nats and amphora-aged blends

17.00: A bordeaux blend to try: Kolonist Cabernet Merlot “Haut de gamme” 2020 Ukranian Wine Company £29

19.00: Sukholimanskyi (A cross between Chardonnay and Plavai) - a unique white grape variety being explored alongside Odessa Black - Ukraines Flagship grape

22.00: Conclusion – The bright future of Ukrainian wines and where to find them worldwide (find info at the bottom)

27.00: Skin Contact and Natural Wines in Ukraine – The impact of Georgian traditions, rising demand, and Ukraine’s experimental winemaking scene.

28.00: Ukrainian Biologist Craft Winery’s biodynamic approach and success with Aligoté

30.00: Impact of Climate Change on Ukrainian Vineyards

32.00: Biologist Aligoté 2021 Wine Tasting Notes Ukrainian Wine Company £24.50

34.00: A limited-edition wine bottled post-invasion with a patriotic blue-and-yellow label from Biologist - see HERE

38.00: Telti-Kuruk: Ancient Ukrainian Grape – A rare variety dating back to the 5th century

41.00: Historical Importance of Wine in Ukraine

43.00: Citron Magaracha - a Muscat-related crossing known for producing fragrant, Muscat-style wines

Please find link below to learn more about purchasing Ukrainian wine, depending on where you are in the world:

UK

Europe

USA

And follow Sera in Instagram HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back, wine friends! This is part two with the brilliant wine journalist Kathleen Willcox, whose work you can find in Wine Searcher, The Drinks Business, Full Pour, and Wine Enthusiast. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, go back and check it out—we covered the evolution of wine styles, winemaking techniques, and unique wines you may have never heard of!

This week, we’re diving into a truly fascinating topic: Why Bhutan might just become one of the world’s next great wine regions and how vineyards at high altitudes are cleverly evading the challenges of climate change. Kathleen shares incredible insights on how elevation impacts grape quality, the role of antioxidants in wine, and how canopy management is evolving to adapt to warmer temperatures. Plus, we explore the future of high-altitude viticulture and whether it could become more accessible beyond premium producers.

If you want to skip ahead:

04.00: Bhutan’s first commercial vineyards and why it’s an exciting new wine region.

06.00:  Bhutan’s carbon-negative status and sustainable wine potential.

07.00:  Bhutan Wine Company – how it started and who’s behind it.

10.00: The unique terroir of Bhutan and its winemaking potential.

12.00: Experimenting with 17 grape varieties to find the best fit.

14.00: Wine tourism in Bhutan – could it become a destination?

16.00: How elevation impacts grape quality and wine balance

18.00: Antioxidants in high-altitude wines

22.00: High-altitude viticulture worldwide

24.00: "California Sprawl" technique for shading grapes in Napa

26.00: Challenges of high-altitude viticulture - Labor-intensive farming vs. machine harvesting

This conversation was inspired by Kathleen’s article: Will Bhutan be the worlds next great wine region and How vineyards closer to the sun are evading climate change

You can also follow her on Instagram to be able to read more of her articles HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome Back Wine friends, and a happy new year! In this episode, I sit down with Kathleen Willcox, a renowned wine journalist featured in Wine Enthusiast, Wine Searcher, and more. Together, we explore exciting innovations in the wine world: Virginia wineries experimenting with Petit Manseng, non-vintage wines made using solera systems, unconventional methods like soaking grapes in seawater and using green tea tannins, and even wines blending grapes from around the globe. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to wine, this conversation will open your mind to bold techniques and inspiring stories shaping the future of winemaking.

A big thank you to our sponsor for this episode, Wild Idol! If you're embracing Dry January or simply seeking a sophisticated, alcohol-free option, Wild Idol is the perfect choice. Their handcrafted sparkling drinks use carefully selected grapes for exceptional flavor and aromatics. But it’s not just about great taste—Wild Idol’s dedication to sustainability is truly inspiring. From upcycled corks and recycled glass bottles to eco-friendly packaging printed with natural soy, they go above and beyond. As a proud 1% for the Planet member, they donate 1% of annual sales to support environmental causes. Whether you're celebrating, hosting, or treating yourself, Wild Idol has you covered. Find them at Harrods, the Dorchester, or your favorite online retailers. Cheers to a brighter, greener future with Wild Idol!

If you want to skip ahead:

7.00:   Loveblock WInery Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand)  - They use green tea tannins as a natural antioxidant in place of sulphur

8.02:   L.A.S Vino Vermentino (Margeret River, Australia) - They are soaking their grapes in sea water

16.53: Ochota Barrels Botanicals of the Basket Range (Adelaide Hills, Australia) - A winery focused on biodynamic and organic farming practices are infusing botanicals with their wines

18.59: Pangeaa Estate - The unique concept of blending grape varieties sourced from different terroirs across the world to create a global Bordeaux-inspired wine

24.00: Penfolds II (South Australia) - blending Cabernet Sauvignon from bordeaux with Syrah from Australia

27.00: Alois Lageder Comets Range Assyrtiko NV (Alto Adige, Italy) - recognized for planting in high elevations and experimenting and innovating through their Comets range

33.00: Early Mountain Vineyards Petit Manseng NV (Virginia, USA) -  Creating a perpetual lees system with Petit Manseng

39.40: Litchen Estate Pinot Noir MV (Anderson Valley, USA) - producing a Pinot Noir using a solera system

40.47: Sean Thackrey Pleiades NV (California, USA)  - The creator of eccentric crazy blended wines

42.00: Valdivieso Caballo Loco NV (Maipo,Chile) - A Solera system Bordeaux blend wine first started 20 years ago

This conversation was inspired by Kathleen’s article: Wine Drinkers Thirsty for Change featured on Wine Searcher

You can also follow her on Instagram to be able to read more of her articles HERE

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back, wine friends! In part two with Jacinta Madison Williams, wine educator and owner of Inflorescence, we dive into five lesser-known red grape varieties perfect for your holiday table and beyond. Discover hidden gems like Bulgaria’s Melnik 55, Austria’s Saint Laurent, and a sweet surprise with Mavrodaphne.

As we wrap up the year, Jacinta also opens up about how her ADHD diagnosis has shaped her journey as an entrepreneur, offering inspiration for anyone considering new ventures in 2025. Tune in for wine wisdom, personal growth, and a toast to the year ahead!

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

4.00: The Bulgarian Melnik 55 grape variety

11.00: The Xinomavro variety from Greece

16.50: On to the St. Laurent grape from Austria

21.00: Back to Sicily (mentioned in Part 1) with the Frappato variety

26.55: The sweet fortified wine from Greece - Mavrodaphe of Patras

36.31: How Jacinta’s ADHD diagnosis helped shape her entrepreneurial journey 

Follow Jacinta on Instagram @inflorescencewines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

In this episode, we're joined by the brilliant and entertaining wine educator, Jacinta Maddison Williams, the creative force behind Inflorescence. From hosting paint-and-sip classes to offering DIY wine kits and curating chef experiences with perfect pairings, Jacinta’s passion for wine is infectious.

Together, we dive into her Top 5 Lesser-Known White Grape Varieties—a must for your Christmas table or a refreshing start to “Try January.” Forget dry January and embrace discovery with these surprising and delightful wines.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

07.30: Jacinta’s passion and journey into the world of Wine

15.32: The Koshu grape variety from Yamanashi, Japan

23.54: The Assyrtiko grape from Santorini, Greece (But now in Lebanon!)

27.00: The Chasselas (Fendant) grape from Vaud and Valais in Switzerland

34.31: The Loin de l'oeil grape Variety from Gaillac, France

44.35: The Carricante grape variety from Sicily (Famous in Etna Bianco)

Follow Jacinta on Instagram @inflorescencewines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Celebrate a milestone with us on the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast as we reach episode 200! In this special installment, we return for part two with Vince Anter, certified sommelier and founder of V is for Vino.

Join us as we journey to Lebanon, a land steeped in winemaking history. Vince shares his heartfelt experiences filming in this remarkable region, highlighting its unique terroir, the harmony of ancient traditions and modern techniques, and the influence of Lebanon's breathtaking mountainous landscapes.

From the iconic wineries of Ixsir, Chateau Musar, and Chateau Ksara to unforgettable tastings, this episode is a tribute to the resilience and innovation of Lebanese winemaking and its growing recognition on the global stage.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

5.00: Lebanon Episode overview - significance of recording in Lebanon and the emotional impact 

8.00: The transformative power of travel and intersection of wine, food and heritage

10.00: Exploring Lebanon’s coastline, valleys and mountains

12.00: Ixsir Winery  in Batroun and Chateau Musar in Ghazir

14.00: Wine styles and Heritage - blending tradition with modern winemaking techniques

17.00: Lebanon’s signature Wine traits

17.54: The white grapes Obaideh and Merwah

19.00: Red blends of Bordeaux and Rhône varieties

21.00: Notable Wines and their profiles

22.57: Lebanese Cuisine and wine pairing

26.00: The art of Arak - a grape brandy with Anise, a staple in Lebanese culture

28.15: Resilience of Lebanese people - entrepreneurship and pride in their wine and food

30.00: Why Wine matters in Lebanon - a symbol of cultural pride

34.07: Tips on travelling to and from Lebanon

35.30: The Vino VIP club - Vince’s free youtube channel and exclusive Wine club

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello wine friends, and welcome back! We’re thrilled to welcome Vince Anter, the founder behind the acclaimed independent wine series, V is for Vino, where Vince takes us beyond the bottle, exploring the culture, history, and winemaking philosophies that shape some of the world’s most iconic wine regions.

Join us as Vince shares his journey into creating this celebrated series, the challenges he’s overcome, and unforgettable stories from his travels. We’ll also get an exclusive sneak peek into his upcoming episode on France’s Loire Valley, renowned for its diverse wines, stunning landscapes, and legendary castles. Plus, don’t miss his passionate take on Chenin Blanc and the hidden gems of the region.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

4.00: How wine Inspired Vince’s Journey

6.00: Early plans for the wine club and the start of V for Vino

14.05: The upcoming Loire Valley podcast episode

14.30: Value and diversity of Loire Wines

17.30: Versatility of Chenin Blanc in detail

16.17: The boom of Chenin Blanc in California

29.30: Discovering the depth of Muscadet and the different Crus

24.30: Loire Valley’s Rosé styles

27.00: Cabernet Franc’s Terroir Expression

32.00: Sauvignon Blanc and Gamay from Touraine region

33.10: The Castles of Touraine

36.40: Why you must visit Nantes

38.44: Cycling along the Loire River

42.34: Domaine Huet and Nicolas Joly - the big names in the Loire

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Hello, wine friends! In this episode, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Canned Wine Co., a brand making waves by doing things differently. Instead of the usual bulk production, Canned Wine Co. sources premium single-varietal wines from Europe’s top vineyards, putting quality first. Recently, I had the chance to visit the stunning Loire Valley, where I met winemaker Lionel Gosseaume and tasted his premium Gamay—first from the bottle, then from the can. The incredible part? You could barely tell the difference!

I even joined the harvest, witnessing the dedication that goes into each grape, and now I want to share that experience with you. To dig deeper into the art and science of quality wine canning, I’m joined by Ben Franks, co-founder of Canned Wine Co.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

03.09: Becoming a wine entrepreneur and Camel Valley’s influence on Ben’s journey

05.25: Early wine influences

07.21: The creation of Novel Wines

10.00: The leap into creating Canned Wine Co

12.25: Challenges of canning premium wines

15.32: The tiny PH limits for canning wine and problems with Savignon Blanc

19.38: A 2 year shelf life on the cans

22.26: Choosing the varietals to go into can

26.08: Discovering the Gamay of Lionel Gosseaume - a Loire Winemaker

28.50: Old Vine Gamay

30.09: Comparing Gamay from Loire and Beaujolais

31.59: Food pairing with Canned Wine Co Gamay

35.14: Experience of comparison tasting the same Gamay from bottle and can out of glass

37.31: Sauvignon Blanc paired with the Loire Valley Goat’s Cheeses

38.24: The wine region for Sauvignon Blanc: Oisly

42:48: Ability for wine expiration with several Canned Wine Co wines

44:19: Sustainability of canned wines

45:38: Technical understanding of how to can wine

48.13: The design of the labels

51:09: The benefits of pouring canned wine into a glass to enhance its flavor and aroma.

53.18: Addressing myths on the quality of canned wine

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

Welcome back, wine friends! In this episode, we're diving into the heart of Provence with a recap of an incredible visit to Chateau Sainte Marguerite, a prestigious Cru Classé estate in the Côte de Provence. I’ll be sharing insights into Provence’s wine regions, including the lesser-known La Londe appellation, and debunking some common myths, like the idea that grape harvesters are only for mass-produced wines. You’ll also get a taste of the unique sensory experiences offered at the winery and learn more about what makes Cru Classé wines so special in Provence. And, of course, I’ll share some mouth-watering food pairings to complement these exceptional wines.

And a special thanks to Coravin, our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special!

If you want to skip ahead:

3.16: The Provence wine region

3.42: The history of Provence: The oldest wine region in France

4.54: The grapes of Provence and the Rosé wine blend

6.16: The sub regions of Provence

7.26: La Londe sub region

10.16: Quality wine production using grape harvesters 

13.15: What is a Cru Classé winery in the AOC Côtes de Provence

15.21: The typical blend of Château Sainte Marguerite

16.03: Being organic and producing vegan wines

17.05: Pressing the grapes, and the gentle winemaking approach needed for Provence Rosé wine production

19.38: The Three Rosés from Château Sainte Marguerite:

Symphonie 2023 £26 Strictly Wine and ND John Wines

Fantastique 2023 £40 Great Wine Co and Strictly Wine

Marguerite's Rosé Collection 2023 €55 Direct from Château Sainte Marguerite

21.30: The Sensory Experience offered at Château Sainte Marguerite

22.55: Food pairing with these wines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected]

Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat

If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat

Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

Until next time, Cheers to you!

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.