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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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.

Join us for part two of our chat with the brilliant Olly Smith! You may know him from Saturday Kitchen or the Three Wine Men shows, where he’s won over audiences with his passion for wine and engaging storytelling. In this episode, Olly shares his insights on English wine’s rise to fame, the distinct flavors of Tokaji, and why Australia’s Yarra Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers. Plus, he takes us behind the scenes of working alongside chef José Pizarro on the P&O Food Heroes holidays. Grab a glass and tune in for more wine tales and laughter with Olly!

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:

03.08: Ollie shares some wine experiences from Tokaj and tasting raw Tokaji in the vineyards

07.58: Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley and understanding the region from above

09.53: De Bortoli Botrytis Semillon dessert wine (the benchmark of Australian ‘Botrytis’ dessert winemaking)

10.46: The Mac Forbes wines

11.28: Supporting charities through Celbrity game shows

13.47: Wine Society’s commitment: Sustainability focus

15.28: 150 years of the Wine Society: Celebrating heritage wines

17.15: Importance of sustainability in wine purchasing

20.19: Risks and rewards of growing wine grapes in England

23.05: Describing English Chardonnay vs. Chablis

26.25: Olly’s "Jazz Rolodex" for unexpected wine finds

28.18: Bacchus as England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc

30.12: Olly’s Bacchus wine recommendations

36.08: Upcoming event - Olly's Christmas tasting with Oz and Tim: The Big Christmas Wine Fest

36.52: Previous episode with Tim Atkin MW (Ep 163 RIOJA and Ep 164 RIBERA DEL DUERO)

39.03: The Glass House concept: Wine bars on P&O cruises and Food Hero Cruise Experiences 

41.34:  Moscato d'Asti 

43.28: Tasting sessions on P&O cruises

45.44: Favorite wine and food pairings with Jose Pizzaro’s dishes

47.48: Debunking wine myths 

49.03: Misconceptions about serving temperatures for wines

50.36: Favourite wine gadget

51.12: Desert Island wine: Wines from Peter Hall

52.42: BBC Two appearance this November 2024 on Between the Covers

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!

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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! Get ready for a fun-filled episode featuring the one and only Olly Smith—aka Jolly Olly! Known for his contagious enthusiasm on wine TV, Olly joins us for an exciting look into Greek wines. We’ll explore unique grape varieties, up-and-coming wine regions in Greece, and even discover Ollie’s top island to visit.

But that’s not all! We’ll also chat about his time on Saturday Kitchen, his surprising food and wine pairings, and his experience hosting his own podcast A Glass With, where he’s interviewed stars like Kylie Minogue and Pink, who both make their own 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:

03.39: Olly’s most crazy wine stories whilst travelling - Santorini hangover cures and Llama attacks

06.58: Olly’s first wine experience 

09.06: A love for Greek wine and why

11.28: Greek white wine varieties - Moschofilero and Malagousia

10.42: Vidiano from Oenops Winery in Crete

13.09: DIscussion of greek rosé varieties - Read Olly’s article on Greek Rosé HERE

13.20: Xinomavro Rosé by Thymiopoulos

14.22: Clio by Muses Estate

15.32: Greece’s terroir and the role of its altitude and climate

16.52: The greek wines from Crete

18.06: Vidiano and Liatico wines by Iliana Malihin

19.26: Lyrarkis winery

21.05: The first Retsina to get 97 points and platinum with Decanter World Wine Awards: Tears of the Pine

23.04: Savatiano from Domaine Papagiannikos

24.03: Malagousia from Gerovassiliou

26.02: The almost extinct Kidonitsa grape variety and winery Monemvasia

28.24: Another recommended winery: Domaine Skouras

30.09: Recommendations on greek islands to visit

33.26: Greek food and wine pairing - Moussaka and Xinomavro

39.01: Olly’s Podcast journey - Listen HERE

40.54: Celebrity guest Dawn French

41.52: Kylie Minogue’s wine range

43.18: Celebrity wines: Inglenook featured on Ep 61 of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Podcast

44.36: Britpop by Alex James

46:57: Pink’s winery Two Wolves

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!

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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.