Pinot & Pixel - der Podcast für die neue Trinkkultur

The wine industry is facing significant challenges in 2025, and hospitality businesses are feeling the pressure. In this episode, I break down practical solutions for navigating the wine crisis. From shortening wine lists to creating unforgettable storytelling and IRL experiences, we explore how you can adapt and thrive in a changing landscape. Plus, I answer a listener’s question: How do you navigate wine lists as a customer?

Whether you’re running a restaurant, working in hospitality, or just someone who loves wine, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Don’t miss it! 🍷✨

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Listener’s question

(00:08:38) Adjusting or Shortening wine lists

NY times article https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/13/dining/drinks/wine-lists-restaurants.html

(00:16:35) Storytelling & IRL experiences

(00:20:45) Premiumisation

In this episode, we delve into the exciting transformations currently underway in the beverage industry. From the surge in popularity of alcohol-free options like craft beers and innovative non-alcoholic wines to the increasing influence of artificial intelligence in winemaking, we explore how these trends are shaping the future of what we drink. We also discuss the growing role of technology in vineyards and how platforms like Vivino are changing the way we discover and appreciate wine. Join us for a fascinating look at the evolving world of beverages.

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Stop complaining!

(00:03:55) Spanish wines temporarily removed from French supermarket shelves

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/spanish-wines-disappear-french-wine-shelves-now

(00:06:37) Princess Cruises elevates non-alcoholic menu

https://www.travelnews.co.za/article/princess-cruises-elevates-non-alcoholic-options

(00:07:56) One in twelve beers in Dutch supermarkets is now alcohol-free

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/01/12/sales-of-no-or-low-alcohol-beers-rise-in-the-netherlands

(00:10:38) Australia's non-alcoholic sector expected to grow substantially

https://www.drinkstrade.com.au/news/australias-non-alc-sector-to-grow-5-annually-for-next-three-years/

(00:12:17) Famous Napa Winery Bouchaine launches estate-grown alcohol-free rosé

https://shop.bouchaine.com/product/Non-Alcoholic-Wine

(00:15:21) How AI is shaping the future of fine wine

https://bernardmarr.com/how-ai-is-transforming-the-ancient-art-of-fine-winemaking/

(00:21:57) Robotics Day 2025: A Glimpse into the Wineries of Tomorrow

https://www.technikum-wien.at/events/robotics-day-2025/

(00:22:47) Vivino’s crowd reviews gain credibility in Cambridge study

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-wine-economics/article/crowdsourcing-the-assessment-of-wine-quality-vivino-ratings-professional-critics-and-the-weather/FE61BAFB8D167CD960BB260777189231

(00:28:35) Hospitality is focusing more on young, sober and ready-to-party guests

https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-sober-non-alcoholic-economy-restaurants-events-boom-2025-1

(00:30:35) A British bar conquers Dry January with a 17p Pint

https://metro.co.uk/2025/01/16/this-bar-offering-pints-beer-just-17p-friday-22376702/

The wine and hospitality industries are evolving rapidly, but how can wineries and restaurants adapt to stay ahead? 🤔 From rising trends like alcohol-free options to shifting consumer expectations, it’s becoming clear that sticking to the old ways might not work anymore.

In this episode, I break down the key challenges and opportunities you should know about, with practical tips to keep your business thriving. Whether you’re a winemaker, restaurateur, or just curious about the future of wine and dining, this is your guide to navigating the change.

🔍 Ready to discover the strategies that separate leaders from laggards? Tune in to learn more.

And for the very curious or brave ones: Let's future-proof your business together: www.pinotpixel.com

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) General Wrap-Up HOGA

(00:04:27) The three types of wineries

(00:14:06) The three types of restaurants

(00:28:39) What you should do

Big shifts in the drinks world this week! The US Surgeon General calls for cancer warnings on alcohol labels - what could this mean for the industry? Meanwhile, French wine consumption drops drastically, signaling changing habits in the wine capital. 🍇

In vineyards, dogs sniffing out pests could revolutionize sustainable winemaking. 🐾

And do you know why you need ID for alcohol-free drinks and that “Dry January” is a trademark? We'll get to that.

Heineken’s new "0.0 Reasons Needed" campaign proves peer pressure works, even without booze, while Josh Cellars expands into the booming non-alcoholic category. On the fun side, North Korea bans hot dogs, and Post Malone drops a $20,000 tip for a single mum. ❤️

Get all the insights and surprising news in this week’s roundup!

Episode 225 is here, and we’re diving into the polarizing debate around Dry January. On one side, you’ve got the die-hard advocates who swear by total abstinence. On the other, the hardcore drinkers cracking jokes about the whole idea. But let’s talk about balance. 🥂 Moderation is key, and so is mutual respect. Whether you’re cutting back or enjoying your favorite drinks, no one should feel judged. Understanding, empathy, and healthy conversations—that’s where real progress happens. What’s your take? 

Let’s discuss in the comments!

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Why we should respect everyone’s decision

(00:04:47) The biggest Dry January is waiting for us

https://beertoday.co.uk/2024/12/31/alcohol-free-january-1224/

(00:06:11) The two frontiers during Dry January

Alcohol is not tobacco

https://web.archive.org/web/20241231222023/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-ale-as-old-as-time-alcohol-is-many-things-but-its-not-tobacco/

Alcohol is a health challenge

https://www.euractiv.com/section/health-consumers/news/alcohol-is-a-public-health-challenge-why-dont-we-see-it-that-way/

(00:13:25 ) Sober travel trends in 2025

https://www.forbes.com/sites/jordilippemcgraw/2024/12/23/sober-travel-trends-to-watch-in-2025/

(00:16:33) Top NA drinks recommendations

https://www.meininger.de/gastronomie/trends/fuenf-alkoholfreie-drink-tipps-zum-aperitif

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the latest headlines shaking the world of drinks, culture, and business. From the oversupply crisis in Mexico’s Tequila industry to a potential alcohol detection system being integrated into new cars 🚗, we've got it all covered! 🥃🚨

Here’s a quick preview of what to expect in this episode:

🔸 Tequila's Oversupply Crisis: How Mexico’s booming production is facing some serious challenges

This episode is packed with surprising twists, eye-opening news, and some fun stories from the world of wine and spirits. Hit play, and let’s get into it! 🎧

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Drinks Category Predictions 

(00:02:04) How oversupply is affecting Mexico’s Tequila industry

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/01/how-oversupply-is-drowning-mexicos-tequila-industry/

(00:04:52) Alcohol detection systems in new cars might come

https://www.siliconvalley.com/2024/12/29/new-years-eve-will-new-cars-have-passive-alcohol-detection-systems/

(00:07:12) Saudi Arabia bans alcohol in World Cup 2034

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/dec/17/fans-banned-drinking-alcohol-in-stadiums-at-saudi-world-cup-2034

(00:08:24) Daily Bottles - Shocking Wine Culture in Italy

https://winenews.it/en/wine-consumers-in-italy-are-29-4-million-1-italian-out-of-2-but-half-drink-occasionally_545509

(00:11:34) Lambrusco introduces Blanc de Noir

https://winenews.it/en/lambrusco-the-doc-one-from-sorbara-will-now-also-be-white-and-the-first-subzone-arrives_545587

(00:13:50) Thieves make off with 35,200 pints of Guinness

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/01/thieves-make-off-with-35200-pints-of-guinness/

(00:15:23) American winery sells wine in a 3 liter Paint Can

https://paradocxvineyard.com/Barn%20Red%203%20Liter%20Can

https://www.vivino.com/US/en/pdx-paradocx-vineyard-barn-red/w/1468617

(00:18:05) Brut Champagne turns 150 years old

https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2024/12/celebrating-bruts-big-birthday

As we wrap up 2024, let’s take a look back at the top stories that shaped the beverage industry this year: from skyrocketing interest in non-alcoholic drinks and cutting-edge tech in wine production to the undeniable impact of climate change.

This episode covers:

Plus, a big thank you to all of YOU for making this an incredible year for the podcast. 

What were your highlights of 2024? What are your predictions for 2025? Let’s talk in the comments!

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Personal Highlights

Alcohol-Free Tastings 2025

(00:08:37) Wine Tops and Flops

(00:15:25) Alcohol-Free Tops and Flops

Flein Fizz Sauvignon Blanc

Mondino Senza Aperitivo

https://garibaldi.de/cucina/Alkoholfreie%20Getr%C3%A4nke

Senzo Riesling

Wharie The Cider

https://pinotpixel.com/collections/alle-waren

Saicho Hojicha https://worldofnix.com/en/products/saicho-hojicha-1

Villbrygg SKOG 03 https://keinundlow.at/products/villbrygg-skog-03

(00:21:35) Most successful topics for P&P in 2024

(00:25:16) Most impactful topics in 2024

https://drinks-intel.com/cross-category/global-drinks-intel-review-of-the-year-the-biggest-news-stories-in-2024/

The biggest acquisitions of 2024

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/the-biggest-drinks-acquisitions-of-2024/

(00:33:35) Trendy Drinks on Google for 2024

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/which-drinks-searches-topped-the-google-charts-in-2024/

(00:35:58) Biggest influencer and brand

(00:39:27) Predictions for 2025

From Aldi's decision to limit Crémant sales to the rise of alcohol-free sparkling wines, we’re diving into the trends shaping the drinks world. 

A French winery is tackling sabotage (again), and even The Simpsons are stepping in to combat counterfeit wines. 🍷👀

But that’s not all - robot chefs are struggling to master the art of cooking, and we’re questioning if algorithms could ever out-taste humans. 

🤖🍴 Plus, with British caterers embracing no and low-alcohol menus, Dry January 2025 is set to be the biggest yet. 🚫🍸

Join us for all the latest news, insights, and debates that are reshaping food, wine, and hospitality!

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:03:05) Sabotage in French winery

https://wine-intelligence.com/blogs/wine-news-insights-wine-intelligence-trends-data-reports/french-winery-sabotaged-amid-growing-tensions-over-low-prices-and-globalization

(00:06:03) The Simpsons are tackling counterfeiting

https://www.winespectator.com/articles/the-simpsons-tackles-wine-counterfeiting

(00:09:17) Aldi limits Crémant sales

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/aldi-limits-sales-of-loire-cremant-to-two-bottles-per-shopper/

(00:11:52) Study shows growing interest in (alcohol-free) sparkling wine

https://gruppe.schlumberger.at/pressemeldung/prickelnde-zukunft-garantiert-wie-die-junge-generation-sektgenuss-neu-definiert

(00:15:32 ) British Caterer now offers no and low alcohol menu for every event

https://www.hospitalityandcateringnews.com/2024/12/caterer-launches-low-no-alcohol-menu-for-all-events/

(00:17:49) The biggest Dry January ever is coming

https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january

(00:19:22) Why Is It So Hard to Make a Robot Chef?

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/22/business/restaurant-robots.html

(00:22:56) Can an algorithm be better at tasting than human?

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/can-an-algorithm-become-better-at-tasting-than-a-human/

(00:26:58) Personal Thank You Note and a Wish for 2025

Tired of the holiday chaos? 😵‍💫 This Christmas, let’s focus on what really matters: connection, calm, and joy! 🎁✨ In this video, I’m sharing 5 simple and powerful tips to help you navigate the holidays with less stress and more meaning. From rethinking traditions to embracing the calm-down month of December, it’s time to create the festive season YOU deserve.

💡 Here’s what you’ll learn:

Don’t let the holidays overwhelm you - let’s make this season mindful and meaningful. 

🎄 Drop your favourite tip for a stress-free Christmas in the comments below and subscribe for more tips on mindful living and wine wisdom! 🍷✨

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Why less stress is so important during the holidays

(00:03:04) Tip 1: Self care

(00:05:04) Tip 2: Perfection is an illusion

(00:06:59) Tip 3: Rethink Traditions

(00:10:37) Tip 4: Simplify commitments

(00:12:45) Tip 5: Use December as a calm-down month

(00:15:02) Summary for a lovely Christmas

The wine world is full of twists and turns right now, with big shifts that will impact how we drink, produce, and trade wine for years to come. 

The EU is finally stepping up to tackle one of its biggest wine crises yet: oversupply. With overflowing cellars and climate change reshaping vineyards, they're working on solutions that aim to reduce production while addressing sustainability and the change in consumer preferences - but will it be enough to make a lasting impact? Meanwhile, Italy is taking a bold step, agreeing to the dealcoholization of wine. In addition, the organic alcohol-free wine production is finally gaining approval, sparking hope for a more inclusive, mindful drinking culture.

In France, Champagne - the king of celebrations - is losing its crown. With market share declining domestically, is this a sign of shifting preferences, or are larger forces at play? 🥂 Over in Germany, the country has once again been crowned the Wine Import World Champion. But is this really a title worth celebrating, or does it highlight deeper challenges within the country's wine culture?  Interestingly, German wine has been stealing the spotlight in China, where it's making waves among consumers seeking premium options. At the same time, Chilean wine giant Concha y Toro is also ramping up its interest in the Chinese market. 

This mix of challenges and opportunities paints a fascinating picture of where the wine industry is headed. Tune in as we unpack these stories and explore what they mean for producers, retailers, and drinkers alike.

💬 What’s your take on these changes? Let’s talk in the comments!

Alexander Gottschalk (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-gottschalk-641838223/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:02:07) EU wants to tackle oversupply and climate change

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/eu-wine-reforms-aim-to-tackle-oversupply-and-climate-change/

(00:04:13) Study on moderate wine consumtion tries to make people moderately less pessimistic

https://vinepair.com/booze-news/nasem-moderate-drinking-benefits/

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/us-report-supports-case-moderate-alcohol-consumption

(00:07:28) Italy agrees on dealcoholization

https://www.meininger.de/wein/weinrecht/italien-einigt-sich-zur-entalkoholisierung

(00:08:47) Organic Alcohol-Free Wine approved

https://www.meininger.de/weinbau/oenologie/biowein-auch-ohne-alkohol

(00:10:22) Lighter bottles only for entry level wines is the wrong message

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/swr-lighter-bottles-for-entry-level-wines-is-the-wrong-message/

(00:12:40) Champagne is losing market share in France

https://www.meininger.de/wein/champagne/champagner-verliert-frankreich-boden

(00:14:26) German wine goes big in China

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/china-gives-german-wines-much-needed-boost/

(00:16:54) Germany again Wine Import World Champion - but is it something to celebrate?

https://www.meininger.de/wein/handel/deutschland-import-wein

(00:00:00) Concha y Toro goes China

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/vina-concha-y-toro-signs-deal-with-chinas-wuliangye-baijiu/