To download the transcript CLICK HERE

In todays’ episode, join me as I chat with Justin Howard-Sneyd, a distinguished Master of Wine, wine consultant, and owner of the Domaine of the Bee winery in Roussillon. More importantly, Justin is a trustee of the Regenerative Viticulture Foundation, where he's been leading two-day courses in regenerative viticulture across the UK for the past two years.

Justin walks us through the essentials of regenerative farming, distinguishing it from organic practices and biodynamics. We'll explore the certification process in this field and dive into the debated topic of whether to till or not. The crux of these decisions lies in maximizing soil health.

Discover fascinating insights into the importance of healthy soils. Did you know that the soils in the UK alone can sequester a staggering 10 billion tonnes of carbon annually? That's equivalent to one year's worth of global human emissions! The detrimental effects of practices like tilling and heavy pesticide use on soil's carbon storage capacity highlight the urgent need for viticulturists to adopt regenerative methods.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

03.40: How Justin got into teaching Regenerative farming 

08.54: The pros and cons of Tilling

12.05: The many people plough and believe it to be a positive

15.15: Toxicity of copper 

17.23: Using different mulches such as sheep fleece

20.27: Work principles of regenerative farming

24.39: Regenerative certifications

30.26: Applied biodynamic practices

32.15: Soil health and resilience

33.32: Justin’s intro into Regenerative Viticulture

Do go to https://www.regenerativeviticulture.org/ to sign up to their mailing letters to find out about all events and news

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.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

Welcome back to part two with Beatrice Bessi, our dedicated head sommelier. Beatrice's passion for wine shines through in every word, making her journey a delight to follow. In this episode, we delve into her experience with the Court of Master Sommelier exams, her recent Australian adventures, and her fascination with old vines. But our main focus is on the two Italian wine regions: Alto Adige and Trentino.

Picture snow-capped peaks and charming landscapes—Alto Adige sits at the crossroads of Austria and Switzerland, boasting a predominantly German-speaking population. Yet, its wines speak volumes in Italian tradition. We'll explore indigenous grape varieties like Schiava and Lagrein, and did you know? A whopping 98% of Alto Adige's wines reach at least the DOC level, a testament to its quality.

Just south lies Trentino, home to renowned sparkling wine producer Ferrari. While Trentino may be smaller, it holds its own charm, and Beatrice's fondness for the region shines bright. Join us as Beatrice shares her insights and passion, painting a vivid picture of these remarkable Italian wine destinations.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.26: The Court of Master Sommelier exams

09.08: The James Busby Trip through Australia

13.37: Tim Wildman and his Pet-Nats

15.52: The oldest vines of Grenache is Australia

17.33: The oldest vines of Shiraz in Australia

21.00: The regions of Alto Adige and Trentino

23.32: Schiava - the cotton candy grape

25.03: Grape variety Lagrein

29.36: Older grape varieties - Teroldego

31.44: Sweet and fortified

34.11: Tasting notes and flavour profiles

35.31: Kerner - crossover between Schiava & Riesling

36.34: Destination recommendations in Alto Adige and Trentino

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

Today we journey into the delights of Sicilian wine, exploring native grapes like Nerello Mascalese and Nero d'avola, the volcanic soils of Mount Etna, and the allure of Passito di Pantelleria. Discover why Cerasuolo di Vittoria is poised to be this summer's standout sipper.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.39: Beatrice's trip to Burgundy

06.31: The Romanee Conti Vineyard

08.15: The Grands Jour de Bourgogne wine event

10.16: Working at 67 Pall Mall

13.14: Learning from the Master Sommeliers - Ronan Sayburn & Terry Kandylis

17.28: Head sommelier at Chiltern Firehouse

20.40: Guest preferences and building rapport

26.53: Grillo, Catarratto - white wines of Sicily

29.58: The volcanic soil of Mount Etna

33.07: The Carricante grape variety

38.03: The Nerello Mascalese grape variety

41.58: Nero d’Avola

44.45: Cerasuolo di Vittoria - the 2024 Summer Sipper

46.26: The single grape variety Frappato

47.58: Sicily - a leader in natural wines

52.29: Passito di Pantelleria

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

Welcome back! Today we journey into the Southern Rhône Valley to explore one specific cru that deserves your attention: Lirac. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems beyond the typical Côtes du Rhône, discovering the value and sustainability behind these well-priced wines. Our guest, Rodolphe de Pins, winemaker and head of Château de Montfaucon, has played a huge part in elevating the reputation of the Lirac region. He shares his journey in revitalizing his family's winery alongside breaking down the distinctive style of wines from this Cru, highlighting its unique landscape and how it intricately molds these exceptional wines. Additionally, he provides insights into the optimal times of the year to experience the wonders of this remarkable place.

Gourmet walk of Lirac Gauges on Sat 25th May is one of them. Click here to know more.

And to know more in general, here are the links that I mentioned in the episode:

https://www.vins-rhone.com/en/vineyard/appellations/lirac

https://vin-lirac.com

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

2.20: Rodolphe de Pins experience and stints around the world making wine

06.55: Returning back to Lirac, and taking over the family domaine of Château de Montfaucon

8.12: Where is Lirac and it’s size

10.20: When did Lirac became a cru

14.33: The 2500 hectares of woodlands in Lirac and how this affects the grapes

17.01: Best times to visit the old cave of Sainte Baume

18.44: Traditional food and wine pairings for Lirac wines

21.36: How does Lirac compare to Châteauneuf-du-Pape

23.32: The grapes of Lirac and grape varietal requirements in Lirac

27.01: The environmental charter in Lirac - Organic farming and sustainability

28.45: HVE certification in Lirac

31.41: The future of Lirac

33.22: Coming to visit Lirac

34.23: The annual balade - a walk through the vineyards

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

In part 2 of this episode, we're diving deep into the world of drinks writing, specifically exploring Rob's experiences as a drinks writer for the Metro. Ever wondered what it's like to have that coveted gig? Well, wonder no more as Rob spills the beans.

But that's not all – alongside sharing some of his latest wine discoveries, we'll also be delving into Rob's intriguing book, "The Alcorithm." This fascinating read delves into the intricate flavors and compounds found in wines, beverages, foods, and herbs, offering insights into predicting your next favorite drink or product. Get ready to expand your knowledge on various grape varieties, discover similarities between them, and uncover some surprising wine trends along the way.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.02: What it’s like to write for the Metro (and how he tastes all the samples)

06.10 Exploring trends: Putting wine in a blender?

08.28: Exploring trends: Rosé with a Jalapeño?

10.22: Wine in Thailand

13.26: Vinos de Invierno, the winter wines in Sao Paulo

14.00: Focus from Provence to deseasonalize Rosé

15.01: The wines from Château d'Esclans

19.29: Rob's Book, The Alcorithm. Buy at Amazon /  Buy at Waterstones

21.35: Comparing Bordeaux Blends to Touriga National

24.30: Comparing Albariño to Assyrtiko 

27.04: The vine training on Santorini called ‘Kouloura’.

29.23: Comparing Cabernet Franc to Mencia

32.33: Comparing Sauvignon Blanc to Bacchus

38.02: Brand Ambassador for Rathfinny, Sussex - how do you market a wine that won’t exist for another year?

40.03: Producing sparkling wine: Blending trials in the winery, clonal choices, and dosage decisions

45.33: Soil profiles in England and how they affect the flavours in the grapes

47.34: Wine Pairing with crips 

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

Today, we are embarking on a journey to Catalonia, Spain, guided by none other than Rob Buckhaven. You might recognize Rob as the Drinks Columnist for The Metro and author of 'The Alcorithm.' But in this episode, we're delving into his past as a brand ambassador for the renowned winery Torres.

Torres boasts a strong presence in Catalonia, particularly in regions like Conca de Barbera, Costes del Segre, Cava, and Priorat. Join us as we explore these wine regions, discussing new regulations and labeling terms within Cava and Priorat, and Torres' focus on reviving pre-phylloxera Catalonian varieties.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

2.09: Working a harvest in South Australia, adding wood chips, and destroying tanks

7.17: Working in the industry and doing a wine MBA in Bordeaux

8.51: Working for such a huge company as Torres

12.11: Cava grape variety Xarel-lo, made as still wine

14.51: The red grapes of Catalonia

15.42: Visiting Conca de Barbera

16.00: Describing the hills of Priorat and it’s magic

19.17: Why is Priorat often overlooked when quality is so high

22.24: The Noms de la Terra – new ranking system in Priorat

26.11: Old vines and sustainability in Spain

28.28: 100% Organic focus for Cava and Penedes

30.14: The changes in Do Cava with more traceability and the effect of the creation of Corpinnat

36.50: The Parajes Calificados of Cava and its Singularity

38.45: The pre-phylloxera vines that Torres is reviving

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

In today's episode, I have more than your average wine story. I will be talking all about Super Tuscans: An Italian wine category created from rebellion and innovation when a group of daring winemakers decided to break all the rules, planting French grapes in Italian soil.

In the 1980s, these wines took the wine world by storm and they still are some of the most highly desirable wines in today's wine scene. So, by the end of this episode, you will know the history behind this wine style, the key players and the desirable wines, but also I will be talking about some more affordable versions too.  

And you should hopefully also feel more excitement when opening up a Super Tuscan knowing it is a wine that broke all tradition, represents innovation and is a perfect blend of history and modernity. 

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

2.19: What is a Super Tuscan

4.39: Context on how Chianti DOC used to be and it’s regulations

7.12: Some slightly more affordable Super Tuscan options

9.30: The story of Sassicaia

13.36: The story of Tignanello

15.38: The story of Solaia

16.28: Why is Tignanello considered the first Super Tuscan when it was made after Sassicaia?

17.37: The story of Ornellaia

20.14: The story of Masseto

21.25: What affect have the Super Tuscans had and how have they shaped Tuscany?

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

In today's episode, we continue our adventure into the region of Southern Rhône with Stage two Master of Wine student, Anna Spooner, who has immersed herself in Southern Rhône living.

This episode zeroes in on the intricacies of Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Rhône Villages, and the Crus—unraveling the mysteries behind these classifications. Our spotlight falls on the renowned Cru, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, as we draw comparisons to Gigondas. Exploring the intriguing Ventoux region, a rising star in the Southern Rhône, becomes a focal point of our discussion.

Anna shares insights into lesser-known areas, guiding us to hidden gems where exceptional value can be discovered and suggesting must-visit destinations. 

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.06: Why Northern Rhône is different to Southern Rhône

06.01: The 10 Crus in Southern Rhône

09.27: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the most famous Cru

12.45: Gigondas vs. Châteauneuf-du-Pape

14.40: Vacqueyras region and growing conditions

18.53: Anna’s tours in the Rhône region

21.30: Wines in Mont Ventoux

26.41: The search for value in Southern Rhône

30.47: Séguret, the most beautiful village the Southern Rhône Valley

34.25: Travel itinerary to the Rhône Valley 

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

On todays’ episode, we sit down with Stage 2 Master of Wine student, Anna Spooner, who has recently made the move to the Southern Rhône. In this episode, our focus shifts to the grape varieties that thrive in this region, with Châteauneuf-du-Pape boasting a remarkable 13 permitted varieties. While Grenache is a familiar name, ever heard of Counoise or Terret Noir?

But before we chat about the details of these lesser-known grapes, the first half of the episode is dedicated to exploring Anna's wine journey. From her experiences at Freixenet, one of the largest Cava producers, to her eye opening experiences with Tablas Creek, in Paso Robles (Pioneers of the California Rhone movement) and the captivating story of Basilisco in the Campania region, we delve into the influences that have shaped Anna's path.

We not only unveil the secrets of Southern Rhône's grape varieties but also paint a vivid picture of Anna's rich and diverse experiences in the world of wine. From the renowned to the hidden gems, this promises a delightful exploration of both wine and the fascinating individuals who bring it to life.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.19: Working with Freixenet in Penedes, Barcelona

04.20: Discussing how to market Cava in the way that Prosecco achieved

06.03: Wine educating with Jimmy (His episodes on this podcast: Ep 123: Jura Region and Ep 124: Wines of Tenerife)

08.12: Anna winning the The Decanter Online Wine Experience Awards whilst working for The Wine Society 

10.08: Virtual wine events hosted by The Wine Society on You Tube including The legendary Chateau Musar. You can watch HERE

11.57: Anna’s own video series online (coming soon). You will be able to watch HERE

14.25: What it is like to be a Master of Wine student

16.19:  Anna’s shortlisted article on Jancis Robinson website about Viviana Malafarina - the inspiring women behing winery Basilisco in the Aglianico del Vulture region, Basilicata.

20.14: The Storico Vineyard - a special place

21.39: Anna’s runner up aricle on Jancis Robinson’s website about Tablas Creek, the leaders of renewable viticulture (and founded in partnership with Chateau Beaucastel)

26.58: Châteauneuf-du-Pape varieties, Terret Noir and Counoise

28.44: Varieties and restrictions of grape varieties in Southern Rhône

32.20:’ Garrigue’: what does this wine descriptor actually mean

34.21: Grenache Rouge

Read the study about why Grenache grows best in the Southern Rhone is HERE

35.46: Mourvèdre, known as Monastrell

39.00: The white wines of Southern Rhone and some interesting plantings and blends

44.43: Vin Doux Naturels: Rasteau & Muscat de Beaume de Venise

47.30: Tavel: The only 100% Rose Cru

52.34: Food pairings with darker Rosés

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

To download the transcript CLICK HERE

Today in Part 2 of our conversation with Norbert Reinisch from Braida Winery. We now journey into the fascinating world of Barbera, the grape variety that has seen a revolution due to Braida’s founder, Giacomo Bologna who believed in this grape when so many others had pigeon holed it as ‘just for cheap wine production’. His dedication to experiment and innovate with barriques has led to their flagship wine Bricco dell’Uccelone being one of the most famous Barberas being made.

By the end of this episode, you'll acquire a nuanced understanding of its bright acidity, lush fruit notes, and the diverse expressions it unveils. We navigate through the regions where Barbera thrives and gain insights into its slightly checkered history – a narrative that adds layers to its story and deepens our appreciation for the profound connection between Braida Winery and Barbera.

This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.

If you want to skip ahead:

02.14: The story of the Barbera grape variety

06.38: The flagship Bricco dell’Uccellone and how it changed opinions

09.59: Styles of Barbera

11.40: Growing and harvesting Barbera and the changes with global warming

14.12: Differences between Barbera d’Asti and Barbera d’Alba

16.57: Flavours and aromas of Barbera

19.30: Discussing Barbera d’Asti Montebruna, it’s label and it’s connection to The famous Incisa della Rocchetta family (connected to Sassicaia)

22.58: Tasting the Barbera d’Asti Montebruna 2020 £20.75 Field & Fawcett

25.34: Evolution of Barbera as it matures

28.08: Discussing and tasting the flagship Bricco dell’Ucellone 2020 £57.30 Field & Fawcett

33.59: Discussing and tasting the Bricco della Bigotta 2019 £64 Tanners

34.00: Barbera in different wine glasses

38.20: Food pairings with Barbera 

42.00: How Bricco della Bigotta got it’s name

44.37: Barbera better in oak or not?

45.28: Alcohol percentages of Barbera

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