Pinot & Pixel - der Podcast für die neue Trinkkultur

In this episode, I’m sharing my key takeaways from my recent wine tour in England, where I explored both the technical and personal sides of the English wine industry. On the one hand, we dive into the hard skills that make English wineries stand out, like premium wine tourism, a strong focus on local partnerships, and the increasing emphasis on regional gastronomy. On the other hand, the soft skills are maybe even more important - dedication, creativity, intuition, and flexibility all play a huge role in shaping the future of English wine. Tune in for a unique perspective on how England is stepping up in the wine world, blending both tradition and innovation. 🍷✨

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro to English wine tour

(00:03:06) England is like Germany in the 70s

(00:06:09) Focus on Regionality and local Gastronomy

(00:10:50) Premium approach

(00:14:08) Wine Tourism at its best

(00:20:27) Soft skills Intuition, Creativity and Flexibility

(00:23:38) Dedicated People are the key

(00:25:14) The challenges of the English wine industry 

In this week’s roundup, we’re covering some unexpected twists in the drinks industry. First, we honor Josep Ferrer, the legendary co-chairman of Freixenet, who has passed away at the age of 99, leaving behind an incredible legacy in the world of cava. Bordeaux wine’s unique style is facing challenges as the trend of chaptalization grows, killing the chance for a classic BDX style comeback. In the UK, a real estate agent is auctioning a nuclear bunker as a potential wine cellar . In the U.S., Election Tuesday sent alcohol sales soaring, and industry leaders are bracing for Trump’s return as president and its potential impact on drinks regulations. Finally, Katy Perry brings a touch of alpine fun with her new alcohol-free après-ski RTD, the St. Moritz Mule. 

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Honorary Co-Chairman of Freixenet, Josep Ferrer Dies at 99

https://grupofreixenet.com/en/josep-ferrer-sala-the-great-driving-force-of-freixenet-and-cava-has-left-us/

(00:06:37) Chaptalisation kills the classic Bordeaux style comeback

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/bordeauxs-not-so-sweet-harvest/

(00:11:21) UK Real Estate agent to sell nuclear bunker as wine cellar

https://www.brown-co.com/view-news/nuclear-bunker-for-sale-at-auction

(00:13:31) US Election Tuesday sends booze sales soaring

https://nypost.com/2024/11/06/us-news/nyc-liquor-stores-were-crazy-busy-on-election-night-workers-say-weve-been-spending-hours-just-restocking/

(00:14:54) Major impacts expected on the drinks industry as Trump elected U.S. President

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/drinks-firms-brace-as-trump-victory-looks-likely/

(00:18:06) Katy Perry drops Alcohol-Free Après-Ski RTD

https://stupiddope.com/2024/11/katy-perrys-de-soi-drops-st-moritz-mule-a-non-alcoholic-apres-ski-must-have/

In this episode, we dive into the world of high-quality cider with Guillaume Lagger, a winemaker and cidermaker from England. We start by exploring the recent growth and popularity of cider, especially among quality-conscious consumers. Guillaume takes us through the essential steps that define a truly premium cider – from the selection of apples to the detailed production process.

We also discuss the different cider styles, from classic pub ciders to unique regional varieties like those from Somerset, and examine the types of consumers each style appeals to. Finally, Guillaume shares his insights on how to inspire traditional cider drinkers to embrace high-quality options. This is an episode for anyone curious about the art of cider-making and the movement towards quality in a rapidly evolving market.

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

Guillaume Lagger (https://www.wharie.co.uk/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro on Cider

(00:02:27) Steps defining Quality

(00:12:16) Who is drinking which Cider?

(00:14:19) How to get people into Cider

Guillaume’s Ciders: https://www.wharie.co.uk/our-cider

Here’s what’s making waves in the drinks world this week! UK wine prices are set to rise again in 2025, just as Italy reinforces its stand against de-alcoholization, keeping it illegal in the country. Guinness, however, is embracing the trend, expanding its capacity for 0.0 production! Meanwhile, Chapel Down celebrates its independence, Alto Adige announces 86 Cru vineyards, and Kylie Minogue’s new 0% sparkling white is hitting shelves. Plus, a promise to a 100-year-old for free beer is costing one pub a fortune!

Dive into this week’s episode to catch all the latest and let me know - what’s your take on these trends?

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:02:36) Brits will have to pay even more for wine from 2025

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/uk-wine-drinkers-pay-even-more-wine

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/autumn-budget-british-government-increases-tax-on-wine-and-spirits-542749/

(00:07:00) Chapel Down stays independant

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/chapel-down-standalone-company/

(00:08:35) California wine brand teams up with Colgate

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/10/california-wine-brand-teams-up-with-colgate/

(00:10:40) Alto Adige introduces 86 Cru vineyards

https://www.meininger.de/wein/weinrecht/suedtirol-fuehrt-86-lagen-ein

(00:12:08) Deacoholization stays illegal in Italy

https://www.meininger.de/wein/politik-und-verbaende/italien-stoppt-regelung-fuer-alkoholfreien-wein

(00:14:12) Kylie Minogue expands 0% range with a white sparkling

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/11/kylie-minogue-expands-0-range-as-zebra-striping-gains-momentum/

(00:15:51) Guinness expands 0.0 capacity

https://bottleraiders.com/other-spirit/zero-alcohol/guinness-00-nonalcoholic-beer-expansion/

(00:17:20) A Promise that is costing a pub a fortune

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBrjMhNys0D/?igsh=ZWpkaDVieHkxd3Iz

🎉 I’ve been looking forward to this episode! This week, I’m joined by Charlie Brown from Sandridge Barton, one of the most inspiring figures in the English wine industry. Together, we talk about the art of winemaking, sustainable practices, and innovative hospitality. Discover why this South Devon winery is setting a new standard for sustainability and hospitality, not only within the English wine world but for wineries everywhere! 🌱🍇

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

Charlie Brown (https://sandridgebartonwines.com)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:01:59) The story of Sandridge Barton and Sharpam

(00:10:15) Wine Tourism at its best

(00:14:15) Domestic and International Marketing

(00:18:16) Game Time: „Red or White?“

(00:23:27) Sustainability Blueprinz

(00:28:38) From vineyard to bottle

(00:33:10) Future Outlook

#englishwine #winemaking #sustainability #hospitality #sandridgebarton #englishvineyards #southdevon #wineindustry #greenwinery #pinotpixelpodcast

In Episode 204, we’re unpacking a mix of quirky and serious trends shaping the wine and drinks industry. From the world’s first Champagne "Drive-Thru" to Bordeaux's biggest cooperative investing in alcohol-free options, there's plenty to explore! We’ll also dive into Prowein's latest business report, Australia's wine export surge to China, the health benefits of wine, and the viral trend of "dirty soda." Plus, vineyards are now using lasers to scare away birds, and water shortages are hitting major wine regions. Tune in for the latest insights and surprises!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Sideways Wrap-Up

(00:02:44) This is the World's first Champagne "Drive-Thru"

https://singapore.intercontinental.com/offers/champagne-express-lane

(00:05:38) Prowein Business report released

https://www.prowein.com/en/Visit/Services/Business_Reports/ProWein_Business_Report_2023

Threads & Challenges for industry

https://www.prowein.com/cache/pica/1/6/8/0/2/6/12317801705412726/2023_6_key_messages_Seite_1.jpg

(00:08:45) Australian wine export boosted to 3-year highs by Mainland China shipments

https://www.wineaustralia.com/news/media-releases/shipments-to-mainland-china-boost-australian-wine-export-volume-and-value-to-3-year-highs

(00:12:31) Premiumisation is a long-running trend in drinks

https://www.theiwsr.com/iwsr-speakeasy-premiumisation-and-the-new-consumer/

(00:16:14) How healthy is wine?

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/10/why-its-time-to-start-defending-wine/

(00:18:52) Bordeaux's biggest cooperative invests in alcohol-free

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/10/bordeaux-families-ups-its-focus-on-no-and-low/

(00:21:32) Dirty Soda is going viral

https://www.foodandwine.com/what-is-dirty-soda-8730924

(00:24:21) Vineyard laser to scare birds

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_mfeTtRxuC/?igsh=MWl4YXB5N2xnNHJpNQ%3D%3D

(00:28:17) Many wine regions are running out of water

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBgvvsoNzZH/?igsh=amY4eTM2cGtnYmpv

Last-minute bookings, high cancellation rates, and no-shows are on the rise, post-pandemic. From hotels to wine tastings, companies are feeling the pressure. How can businesses ensure reliability while still creating a great experience for customers? Think early-bird deals, clear communication, and holding clients accountable. Commitment is key - both for businesses and for YOU. 

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:03:29) The Case

(00:08:48) The Data behind the Change

https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/great-hospitality-reset

https://techreport.com/statistics/lifestyle/online-booking-statistics/

(00:15:04) The Reasons for the Shift

(00:21:32) What companies can do 

(00:25:14) How to change your marketing 

(00:28:10)  How to change your behaviour 

This week, we dive into Kamala Harris’ bold moves on marijuana legalization and digital assets, the rise of Tesla robots replacing sommeliers, and how sustainability is losing ground to empty buzzwords. We also talk about shrinking wine harvests in the UK and Germany, major market shifts in Hong Kong and Singapore Airlines, and much more. Plus, catch the latest in the alcohol-free beer scene with new brands, Notoberfest, and even Tom Holland’s latest launch!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Kamala Harris aims to legalize Marijuana nationwide

https://x.com/KamalaHarris/status/1845859723632837049

(00:03:17) Kamala Harris announces pro-digital assets agenda

https://decrypt.co/286114/kamala-harris-pro-crypto-stance-black-men

(00:04:36) Do Tesla robots that serve wine mean the end of sommeliers?

https://www.reddit.com/r/singularity/comments/1g1244j/optimus_talking_and_serving_drinks/

(00:07:04) Sustainability suffers from buzzword bingo

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/10/is-complicated-rhetoric-sustainabilitys-biggest-enemy/

(00:11:18) UK to Expect a Significantly Smaller Harvest in 2024

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/english-harvest-2024-heavy-crop-losses-due-to-wet-weather-541246/

(00:12:56) Germany’s wine harvest forecasted to be 5% lower in 2024

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/spring-rain-expected-to-hit-germany-wine-harvest

(00:14:22) ProWein launches hotel booking platform to counter growing cost pressure

https://www.prowein.com/en/Exhibit/Information/Hotel_CityInfos

(00:15:46) Europol busts international wine fraud ring

https://www.europol.europa.eu/media-press/newsroom/news/wine-counterfeiters-busted-in-italy-for-selling-bottles-of-fake-wine-for-eur-15-000

(00:17:00) Hong Kong cuts spirits tax to fuel the market

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/10/hong-kong-slashes-spirits-tax-in-historic-move/

(00:19:13 ) Singapore Airlines pours 400k bottles of Champagne a year

https://www.travelandleisure.com/singapore-airlines-champagne-sourcing-8689568

(00:22:27) United Airlines switches from wine plastic bottles to cans

https://www.packagingdive.com/news/innovations-united-airlines-chivas-regal-rxdco-novolex-kysu/729521/

(00:23:56) Hygiene issues hit BrewDog production facility

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/basic-hygiene-issues-hit-brewdog-production/

(00:28:03) Tiger becomes official Beer of Manchester United

https://www.manutd.com/en/news/detail/man-utd-announce-partnership-with-tiger-beer

(00:29:42) Pernod Ricard sells multiple spirits brands to Royal Unibrew

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/pernod-ricard-to-sell-multiple-nordic-brands-to-royal-unibrews-hartwall

(00:30:44) Alcohol-free brand Moderato raises another €3m 

https://www.vitisphere.com/news-102940-moderato-ramps-up-the-alcohol-free-wine-category-by-raising-3-million-.html

(00:32:19 ) Notoberfest: Boston's first alcohol-free beer garden

https://www.boston.com/food/food-news/2024/10/17/non-alcoholic-beer-garden-brighton/

(00:33:43) Northern US states are main drivers for alcohol-free beer

https://www.theiwsr.com/northern-us-states-drive-biggest-gains-in-no-alcohol-beer/

(00:35:09) Tom Holland launches alcohol-free beer

https://www.xrock1039.com/2024/10/16/tom-holland-launches-non-alcoholic-beer-two-years-into-sobriety/

In this episode, we explore the growing trend of large wine and spirits corporations acquiring innovative startups, especially in the alcohol-free space. We dive into recent high-profile acquisitions, why big brands are making these moves, and what it means for both the startups and the established players. We’ll also discuss the opportunities and challenges for the market, future trends in the industry, and how influencers and marketing strategies are shaping the alcohol-free revolution. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of the wine and spirits industry!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Alcohol-free Spirits Market Outlook

https://www.mynaturalorigins.com/en/blog/the-non-alcoholic-spirits-market-growth-and-trends

(00:03:52) Major acquisitions of the last six years

https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2018/07/pernod-moves-into-alcohol-free-spirits/

https://www.diageo.com/en/news-and-media/press-releases/2019/diageo-acquires-majority-shareholding-in-seedlip-the-world-s-first-distilled-non-alcoholic-spirit

https://www.cbrands.com/blogs/news/constellation-brands-makes-ventures-investment-in-flavor-forward-sparkling-beverage-brand-tost

https://www.matthewjukes.com/2024/07/billecart-salmon-selection-unveils-its-exclusive-distribution-partnership-with-jukes/

https://www.beveragedaily.com/Article/2024/08/29/Pernod-Ricard-invests-in-Lewis-Hamilton-s-non-alcoholic-tequila-alternative#

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/diageo-buys-us-non-alcoholic-165344980.html

https://www.just-drinks.com/news/lvmh-buys-stake-in-sparkling-non-alcoholic-wine-producer-french-bloom/

(00:08:00) The reasons for acquisitions

(00:13:06) Opportunities and challenges

(00:18:09) Prediction on alcohol-free

(00:19:16) Marketing strategies

(00:23:00) Wrap-Up 

It’s my 200th episode! 🎉 A massive thank you to everyone who has supported the podcast over the years - you’re the best!

In this special milestone episode, we dive into some major highlights: the 20th anniversary of Sideways, the rise of alcohol-free beer in Europe, Oktoberfest’s positive 2024 numbers, and LVMH making waves in Formula 1. Plus, some exciting news from Erdinger, Taittinger’s English Sparkling Wine, and a must-listen podcast recommendation! Let’s celebrate together - grab your favorite drink (alcohol-free or not), and let’s get into it! 🍻

We’ve covered so much in 200 episodes! What’s been your favorite episode so far? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your thoughts! 👇

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

English wine tour 2024: https://pinotpixel.com/uk

Sideways tasting: https://pinotpixel.com/sideways

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Big shoutout to all my supporters

(00:03:37) Sideways turns 20 this month

https://www.sfgate.com/centralcoast/article/sideways-movie-anniversary-santa-ynez-valley-19797576.php

Episode 183: https://youtu.be/bzcWxu5bZ0s

(00:06:29) Spain & Germany are the biggest fans of alcohol free beer

https://www.statista.com/chart/33210/regular-beer-drinkers-survey/

(00:10:09) Erdinger goes deeper in AF

https://www.meininger.de/bier/brauereien/erdinger-setzt-auf-alkoholfreies-helles

(00:12:27) Alcohol-free beer sees significant growth across Europe

https://www.eureporter.co/health/alcohol-health/2024/10/08/alcohol-free-beer-sees-significant-growth-across-europe-according-to-foodora/

(00:14:29) Oktoberfest 2024 shows positive numbers

https://www.oktoberfest.de/en/magazine/oktoberfest-news/preliminary-final-report-2024-relaxed-16-days-festivities

(00:16:50) LVMH enters Formula 1 with billion dollar deal

https://www.gpfans.com/us/f1-news/1031672/f1-lvmh-2025-global-partnership-deal/

(00:18:23) Taittinger opens English Sparkling 

https://www.the-buyer.net/people/producer/domaine-evremond-taittinger-english-sparkling-wine

(00:21:15) EU grants €120m Vine Pulling Plan for France

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/european-green-light-eu120m-vine-pulling-plan

(00:22:41) Podcast recommendation: BDX Angelus

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unclassified-by-choice/id1470283431?i=1000670806786