Pinot & Pixel - der Podcast für die neue Trinkkultur

The wine industry is facing a perfect storm: declining consumption, inflation, climate challenges, and changing consumer habits. 

Are we addressing the real issues? In this video, I discuss why defending alcohol at all costs is holding us back and how we can pivot toward innovation, quality, and sustainability.

From misleading health claims to the need for fresh strategies, it’s time for a wake-up call.

If you care about wine’s legacy and its future, join the conversation. Let’s build a resilient, inspiring industry together!

👉 Share your thoughts in the comments. Are you Team Tradition or Team Innovation?

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Setting the Stage

(00:01:25) The Problem: Alcohol and Its Defenders

Wine Conference Austria https://www.der-winzer.at/news/2024/12/eine-empfehlung-fuer-den-moderaten-weinkonsum.html

103y old drinker https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/diets/1986905/103-year-old-chardonnay

(00:06:17) The Misleading Health Argument

Resveratrol in food https://zoe.com/learn/foods-high-in-polyphenols

(00:09:27) The Cultural Importance of Alcohol

Chinese beer https://studyfinds.org/10000-year-old-beer-recipe/

(00:11:22) Learning from the Past

Antinori statement https://winenews.it/en/wine-has-overcome-many-crises-it-will-overcome-this-one-too-the-message-of-piero-antinori_544704

(00:14:05) The Reality of Progress

(00:18:12) My Call to Action

The intro of this episode answers listener Alex' question which alcohol-free premium wines to choose for the holidays. Afterwards, we have a look at:

* Global wine production and consumption hitting historic lows

* Why Auckland is limiting alcohol sales before Christmas

* Majestic's exciting partnership with Club Soda for No-Lo lovers

* A Guinness shortage? Pubs struggle to keep up with demand

* Vineyard robotics securing UK government funding

* AI shaping grocery experiences in the US, but Americans remain tech-cautious

...and so much more!

Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) How to find a good alcohol-free wine for Christmas (Listeners question)

(00:03:42) Global wine production hits historical low

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/global-wine-production-hits-historic-low/

(00:05:30) European Wine Consumption Hits 70-Year Low

https://vino-joy.com/2024/12/11/european-wine-consumption-hits-70-year-low-oiv-reports/

(00:08:17) Auckland (NZ) brings in alcohol sales restrictions just before Christmas

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/auckland-brings-in-alcohol-sales-restrictions/

(00:09:18) Australia’s industry battles decline with strategic adjustments

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/white-wine-revival-australias-industry-battles-decline-with-strategic-adjustments/

(00:12:35) Christmas sales will be big according to No-Lo experts

https://www.tescoplc.com/after-a-record-breaking-year-no-and-low-alcohol-experts-give-their-christmas-predictions/

(00:14:35) Majestic partners with Club Soda

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/majestic-partners-with-club-soda/

(00:15:32) Guinness shortage in pubs - why the company is struggeling to keep up with demand

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDYQlx1CBje/

(00:18:30) Analysis of aromas that differentiate beer and wine could lead to better non-alcoholic versions

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.4c06838

(00:20:36) Vineyard Robotics project secured 500.000 Euro UK government funding

https://winegb.co.uk/press-releases/robotics-project-british-wine-industry-secures-government-funding/

(00:23:20) US grocer serves up AI-driven personalization for alcohol and food

https://www.grocerydive.com/news/albertsons-wine-artificial-intelligence-personalization/735126/

(00:24:07) Most Americans want to keep tech out of gastronomy

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/12/most-diners-want-to-keep-tech-out-of-restaurants-report-finds/

(00:26:24) Almost one fifth of Brits opposed to tipping

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/almost-a-fifth-of-brits-opposed-to-tipping/

(00:29:28) Starbucks opens café with extraordinary views - of North Korea

https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/starbucks-south-korea-north-korea-border-b2656523.html

(00:30:55) Lindt launches Dubai Chocolate in Switzerland

https://www.instagram.com/p/DDdDTyPp_VF/

As the year winds down, we’re analysing the biggest hits and misses in the drinks industry. From the soaring popularity of premium sparkling wines 🥂 and the surprising comeback of sweet wines to the hype (and reality) of zero sugar drinks, this episode takes a mindful look at 2024’s beverage trends.

We’ll explore the growing role of AI 🤖, the rise of fermented drinks 🧉, and why some predictions for the year fell flat. Plus, a few wildcard trends that caught everyone off guard!

Perfect for drinks enthusiasts and professionals alike, this episode will leave you thinking about what’s next for 2025. Because let’s face it - drinking less, but better, is here to stay. 🍾 Cheers!"

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:01:23) The Hottest Topics of 2024

(00:08:26) The Flops of 2024

(00:14:11) The Wildcards we didn’t have on the board

This week, we’re diving into an incredible lineup of stories that showcase the ever-evolving world of drinks:

🍷 Notre Dame Cathedral has reopened its doors, and guess what’s pouring at the celebration? Natural wine takes center stage, blending history with sustainability.

🕵️‍♂️ Meanwhile, in the world of tequila, a heist worth $1 million has left industry insiders reeling. Two truckloads of Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar's Santo Tequila have vanished—yes, really!

🚫 Restaurants are feeling the heat as no-shows continue to plague the hospitality scene during the busy holiday season. It’s a problem that’s costing businesses dearly.

⚽ And for Lionel Messi fans: the football legend has launched a limited-edition wine range that’s sure to excite collectors and wine lovers alike.

🥂 In alcohol-free innovation, big names are stepping up. Casillero del Diablo unveils its first sparkling zero, Mionetto surprises with a sophisticated alcohol-free Aperitivo, and Zeronimo makes history with the launch of the first-ever aged alcohol-free wine.

With groundbreaking trends, bold launches, and even a touch of drama, this episode has something for everyone.

🎧 Ready to stay ahead of the curve? Listen now to catch up on the latest news that’s shaping the drinks industry.

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Natural wine chose for Notre Dame Cathedral Reopening

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/natural-wine-chosen-for-notre-dame-cathedrals-reopening-545057

(00:04:56) $1m of Tequila stolen

https://www.forbes.com/sites/hudsonlindenberger/2024/11/18/thieves-hijacked-two-truckloads-of-guy-fieri-and-sammy-hagars-santo-tequila/

(00:07:23) No-Shows are still a big problem of gastronomy

https://www.gast.at/gastronomie/weihnachtsgeschaeft-no-shows-und-stornos-nehmen-zu-54804

(00:10:30) Watch Out for Food Poisoning This Holiday Season

https://www.foodsafety.gov/blog/food-safety-tips-holidays

(00:12:17) Lionel Messi launches limited edition wine

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/lionel-messi-launches-limited-edition-wine-range-545239/

(00:14:42) New Finnish Guidelines say: Skip the Alcohol!

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/new-dietary-guidelines-advise-finns-avoid-alcohol

(00:16:47) Casillero del Diablo moves into alcohol-free

https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/casillero-del-diablo-moves-into-alcohol-free-with-sparkling-zero-wine/698576.article

(00:18:33) Mionetto launches alcohol-free Aperitivo

https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2024/12/04/mionetto-launches-its-first-mionetto-aperitivo-alcohol-free/

(00:21:31) Zeronimo launches first ever aged alcohol-free wine

https://www.zeronimowine.com/century-blend-reservation/

In this special holiday episode, we’re serving up fresh ideas for festive drinks that go beyond the usual Champagne and mulled wine. ✨ From premium sparkling Crémants and Prosecco Superiore to alcohol-free options that truly sparkle, there’s something for everyone! 🥂

Dive into:

It’s time to elevate your holiday table—mindfully and deliciously. Let’s celebrate with style!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro on the Festive Season

(00:02:02) The Wine Section

(00:02:03) #1 Sparkling Wine Beyond Champagne

(00:04:21) #2 Bold Whites like Pinot Blanc or Chenin

(00:05:36) #3 Pinot Noir - What else?

(00:07:35) #4 Dessert Wines

(00:08:52) #5 Orange Wines

(00:10:17) The Alcohol-Free Section

(00:10:41) #1 Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine

(00:11:56) #2 Alcohol-Free White Wine

(00:13:58) #3 Alcohol-Free Spirits

(00:15:28) #4 Premium Juices

(00:17:18) #5 Sparkling Tea and Kombucha

Recommendations:

Austria: https://keinundlow.at/

UK: https://www.grapebritannia.co.uk/

UK: https://joinclubsoda.com/

US: https://winelibrary.com/

In this week's episode, we're diving into the latest headlines shaping the beverage world:

🛑 Trump's proposed 25% tariffs on imports

🍸 Brits swapping tea for gin

🍾 Germany’s sparkling wine boom

🇮🇹 Italy’s journey toward dealcoholization

🎤 Kylie Minogue’s cruise debut—and legal drama

🍕 Breakfast pizza vs. cereal—who wins?

...and so much more, from pub trends to premium airline wines and unexpected innovations (Mayonnaise Wine?!).

Find out what’s making waves, turning heads, and stirring glasses across the globe.

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Trump proposes 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico 

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/trumps-canada-and-mexico-tariff

(00:03:36) Brits prefer Gin & Tonic to a cup of tea

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/brits-prefer-a-gt-to-a-cup-of-tea/

(00:05:42) More young people working in pubs than ever before

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/more-young-people-working-in-pubs-than-ever-before/

(00:08:08) Anne Krebiehl MW joins Qatar Airways as wine strategist

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/qatar-airways-appoints-master-of-wine/

(00:09:49) Family, Health, Freedom and Enjoyment most important values of Young Germans

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/rotkappchen-mumm-trend-study-community-and-freedom-take-center-stage

(00:12:19) Germany's sparkling wine revolution: Sekt and Alcohol-Free outpace Cava & Co.

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/germany-where-sparkling-wine-sells-well

(00:14:52) Wine Paris 2025: No-Low Revolution Takes Center Stage

https://wineparis.com/newfront/page/be-spirits

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/events/wine-paris-2025-non-alcoholic-trends

(00:17:15) Italy’s Path to Dealcoholization is Becoming Reality

https://www.meininger.de/wein/politik-und-verbaende/entalkoholisierung-bald-auch-italien

(00:20:54) Study says Pizza for breakfast is healthier than most cereals

https://www.instagram.com/p/DC5OaWkJuEQ/

(00:22:50) The most popular beers of America: Heineken, Guinness, Corona

https://business.yougov.com/content/50673-beer-in-mind-brand-winners-2024-report-and-webinar

(00:24:57) Spirits thieves caught hiding in haystacks

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/police-find-suspected-spirits-thieves-hiding-in-haystack/

(00:26:17) Hospices de Beaune auction sees 40% decline in sales volume

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/hospices-de-beaune-2024-auction-nets-just-under-e14-5m-544252

(00:27:27) Sailing into Success: Cruise Lines Are Redefining Wine Sales

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/insights/cruising-better-wine-sales

(00:29:15) Princess Cruises to serve Kylie Minogue's 0.0 Rosé 

https://www.travelpulse.com/news/cruise/princess-cruises-to-serve-kylie-minogues-non-alcoholic-sparkling-wine

(00:30:15) Kylie about to sue Aldi for copycat

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-14118623/kylie-minogue-legal-action-aldi-knock-off.html

(00:32:32) Grocers Drop Conor McGregor's Products Following Rape Conviction

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/alcohol-products-linked-to-fighter-conor-mcgregor-delisted-by-grocers/

(00:33:37) Helllmann launches Mayonnaise Wine

https://www.forbes.com/sites/stephaniegravalese/2024/11/15/why-hellmanns-put-mayo-into-a-wine-bottle-explained/

(00:34:53) Pepsi releases Gingerbread Edition for Christmas

https://people.com/pepsi-releasing-new-limited-edition-gingerbread-soda-for-the-holidays-8752252

In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Vanessa Krogh, the brilliant co-founder of VillBrygg in Oslo. VillBrygg is redefining the way we think about alcohol-free beverages in Norway and literally crafting a movement. 🌱

We dive deep into the creative process behind their unique products, the entrepreneurial journey of building a company from scratch, and the incredible potential of the alcohol-free market. Whether you're curious about innovation in drinks or want to learn from one of Norway's finest in the industry, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

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

Vanessa Krogh (https://www.instagram.com/villbrygg/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) The Founder Story

(00:14:41) The Product Process

(00:25:23) The Company Perspective

(00:33:48) The Potential of Alcohol-Free

From French grape growers staging bottle-smashing protests outside Lidl to Singapore Airlines pouring Cristal in the skies, this week’s update is packed with drama, innovation, and a sprinkle of holiday sparkle. ✨

Here’s what we’re covering:

From cultural shifts to creative drinks marketing, this episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss it! 💬 Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Beaujolais Nouveau

Sandridge Barton New Release https://www.instagram.com/reel/DChaSgRI0hT/?igsh=MW51ejR3Z3UxY2UxZg==

(00:02:32 ) Angry French grape growers smash bottles outside Lidl

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/angry-french-grape-growers-smash-bottles-outside-lidl-544119/

(00:06:26) French Growers block motorway and hijack lorries containing Spanish wine

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/french-protests-growers-block-motorway-and-hijack-lorries-containing-spanish-wine-544630/

(00:08:02) Famous German producer reduces vineyards drastically

https://www.meininger.de/wein/erzeuger/markgraf-von-baden

(00:10:02) Italy sees a cultural shift in wine consumption

https://winenews.it/en/italians-are-not-giving-up-wine-but-changing-demographics-types-and-consumption-occasions_541842/

(00:12:08) Sober Christmas is getting real

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/21-of-christmas-parties-will-be-alcohol-free-this-year/

(00:16:25) Brits are baffled by wine terminology

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14112205/wine-lovers-baffled-jargon-terminology-UK.html

(00:00:00) Alcohol-free beer is becoming more popular in the EU

https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2024/11/15/alcohol-free-beer-is-becoming-more-popular-in-the-eu-but-will-it-overtake-traditional-beer

My AF Beer Favorites: https://youtu.be/Etu8QmjB-us

(00:19:19) Luxury Champagne Christmas Dinner in UK's poshest train 

https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/uks-poshest-train-coming-glasgow-30404695

(00:20:39 ) Singapore Airlines exclusively offering Roederer Cristal from December

https://www.traveldailymedia.com/singapore-airlines-elevates-suites-and-first-class-experience-by-exclusively-offering-cristal-2015-champagne/

(00:21:46) Pizza Hut is introducing a tomato wine

https://fortune.com/2024/11/19/pizza-hut-tomato-wine/

(00:23:20) NBA star launches own Napa Red

https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/295098

Nobody likes bad reviews—or a full-on sh*tstorm. But what if I told you these moments of crisis are also your biggest opportunities?

🎯 In this episode, we dive deep into strategies for turning customer feedback (even the brutal kind) into growth and stronger relationships. From handling online criticism to embracing complaints as a way to innovate, I’m sharing actionable tips and real-world examples to help your brand weather the storm and thrive. 🌟

Read more in my blog post:

How to Deal with Customer Feedback and Turn It Into Opportunities

📢 Whether you’re in hospitality, wine, or any other industry, this is your toolkit for resilience and transformation.

💬 How do you handle feedback? Let me know in the comments!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro Tip for Chat GPT

(00:02:32) Why Feedback is important

Blog article https://pinotpixel.medium.com

(00:06:18) Five Strategies how to deal with criticism

Coke New/Classic fail

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYeHT6wbi9Y

https://www.reuters.com/article/marketsnews/idINN3035960320090130/?rpc=33

(00:10:03) Pepsi changing the recipe for their Cola

https://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Article/2015/04/24/PepsiCo-replaces-aspartame-with-sucralose-in-Diet-Pepsi-in-US

(00:11:31 ) BrewDog marketing moves

https://drinksretailingnews.co.uk/brewdog-finds-itself-banned-as-a-motherfu-over-offensive-ad/

(00:14:42) Starbucks Deal with holiday cups

https://about.starbucks.com/stories/2016/starbucks-invites-customers-to-create-red-cup-art/

https://www.eater.com/2015/11/10/9705570/starbucks-holiday-red-cups-controversy-history

(00:17:01) Domino’s brand crisis turned around

https://blog.unincorporated.com/dominos-brand-crisis

(00:20:47) How to handle a shitstorm

(00:21:40) Oatly’s infrequently asked questions

https://oatly.com/en-us/things-we-do/brainwashing/ifaqs

(00:23:22) Cheers with 0.0 by Heineken

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftB76c1Dk9M

(00:25:39) Bitburger advertising with pregnant women

https://www.20min.ch/story/bitburger-shitstorm-wegen-werbung-alkoholfreies-bier-bit-schwangere-frau-548600648361

(00:27:13) Beyond Meat winning Celebs for campaign

https://www.beyondmeat.com/en-US/press/putting-their-money-where-their-mouth-is-growing-list-of-all-star-athletes-invest-in-beyond-meat

(00:28:22) Impossible Meat from plants

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUqOkLdwcGc

(00:30:16) Seedlip reacts to Flavoured water

https://www.seedlipdrinks.com/en-gb/journal/the-seedlip-soundboard/

(00:32:25) Powerful case studies

(00:32:38) Dealing with hate comments by rebels0.0

https://www.instagram.com/p/DBjNnjqqw9l/?hl=de&img_index=1

(00:35:24) Marketing with a prostitute

https://bottleraiders.com/other-spirit/zero-alcohol/free-spirits-company-sex-worker-campaign/

This week’s wine world is buzzing: 🍇 Prosecco is set to steal Champagne’s spotlight in the US this holiday season, while Germany is swimming in surplus wine stocks. 🌍 Sustainability takes centre stage with Napa’s greener wine trains and lightweight bottles from Concha y Toro.

And let’s talk collabs: Simone Biles teams up with Barefoot Wine 🏅, while Snoop Dogg drops new bottles with 19 Crimes. Add in Doppio Passo’s 0.0% sparkling and the declining alcohol trend among German youth, and we’ve got a lot to sip on! 🍷✨

👉 What’s your take on Prosecco vs. Champagne for the holidays? Drop your thoughts in the comments !

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) A Big Thank You

(00:02:02) Mother Nature's Gamble: Europe's 2024 Grape Harvest

https://www.meininger.de/wein/erzeuger/weinlese-2024

(00:03:47) Germany Sits on Excessive Wine Stocks of 12.4m hl

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/germany-sits-excessive-wine-stocks

(00:05:02) Declining trend in alcohol consumption among young Germans

https://www.meininger.de/spirituosen/ruecklaeufiger-trend-bei-alkoholkonsum-jugendlicher

(00:07:43) Prosecco will dominate Champagne over the holidays in the US

https://www.theiwsr.com/sparkling-wines-holiday-spike-in-the-us-seems-to-be-slowing/

(00:10:41) Doppio Passo launches 0.0% Sparkling

https://www.meininger.de/wein/produkte/doppio-passo-launcht-sparkling-00

(00:14:48) Chianti Classico Launches Free Online Course

https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/295038

(00:16:41) Napa invests $11m in greener wine trains

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/napa-to-splurge-us11-million-on-new-wine-trains/

(00:18:41) Concha y Toro goes lightweight

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/vina-concha-y-toro-goes-lightweight/

(00:20:35) Diageo brings all luxury brands under one premium umbrella division

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/diageo-forms-new-luxury-group/

(00:22:00) Heineken invests €45 million in global R&D centre

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/heineken-spends-e45-million-on-global-rd-centre/

(00:23:36) Huge Beer Club Beer52 expands into Whisky

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/beer52-expands-with-whisky52/

(00:26:40) A Masterful Move: Barefoot Wine Unites Gymnast Simone Biles and the NFL

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/barefoot-wine-teams-up-with-gymnast-simone-biles/

(00:29:01) Snoop Dogg and 19 Crimes Expand Cali Wine Collection

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241112990981/en/Entertainment-Icon-Snoop-Dogg-and-19-Crimes-Expand-Cali-Wine-Collection-with-New-Silky-Red-Blend-Cali-Smooth