Pinot & Pixel - Trends, News and Fun from the Wine and Dining scene🍇🍾👟🎉

Ancient cheese on mummies, floods in Bolgheri, and thieves hitting top Rhône producers - this episode has it all! We also dive into the latest from Vivino's new store in Singapore, the innovative paper wine bottle from France, and Hungary’s big marketing push in China. And that’s not all! 🍷 Tune in to hear about Donovan Mitchell’s winemaking apprenticeship, Scotch brand deals, and the latest alcohol-free collab between Billecart-Salmon and Jukes. Plus, making beer to help dementia patients - yep, that’s a thing now! Cheers to another week of wild wine world news! 🍇

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:01:46) 3600 year old cheese on mummified bodies in China uncovered

https://san.com/cc/scientists-uncover-3600-year-old-cheese-on-mummified-bodies/

(00:03:52) Floods in Bolgheri - early season saves majority

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/bolgheri-doc-weathers-the-storm/

(00:05:33) Heavy rain impacts harvest in Rioja region

https://www.meininger.de/wein/erzeuger/rioja-ernte-zum-teil-ertrunken

(00:06:55) Thieves stole 2300 bottles of top Rhone producer

https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2024/09/thieves-strike-rhone-winery

(00:08:20) Innovative Paper Bottle released in France

https://en.greengentechnologies.com/green-gen-cardboard-bottle/

(00:11:14) Vivino opens first store in Singapore

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/vivino-opens-bricks-and-mortar-store-singapore

(00:14:01) Hungary starts big marketing campaign in China

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/china-offers-great-potential-for-hungarian-wines/

(00:16:50) UK signs trade deal with Thailand

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/uk-thailand-trade-deal-is-a-win-for-scotch-whisky/

(00:18:07) Scotch brand "The Famous Grouse" sold to William Grant

https://www.just-drinks.com/newsletters/edrington-sells-the-famous-grouse-to-william-grant

(00:19:43) Champagne Billecart-Salmon Teams Up With Alcohol-Free Brand Jukes

https://www.forbes.com/sites/rachelking/2024/09/23/champagne-billecart-salmon-teams-up-with-alcohol-free-brand-jukes/

(00:21:41) Anheuser Busch unveils next alcohol-free beer

https://www.fooddive.com/news/the-weekly-sip-anheuser-busch-unveils-michelob-ultra-zero-boston-beer-ta/728117

(00:23:34) Making beer helps people living with dementia

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAK4ascIpsq/?igsh=MTZoOWQ1YWNzaDNiZQ%3D%3D

(00:25:18) NBA player Donovan Mitchell completes apprenticeship at Napa winery

https://www.winespectator.com/articles/donovan-mitchell-apprentices-for-the-prisoner

(00:26:28) Hennessy partners up with LeBron James

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/hennessy-cognac-enlists-lebron-james-for-bottle-refresh/

n this episode, I’m joined by Eduardo Jordan, winemaker at the renowned Torres Winery in Chile. We dive deep into the exciting 2024 vintage, discuss the unique profiles of this year’s wines, and explore Torres' iconic labels. Eduardo also shares insights on their key markets and how communication strategies vary across vintages. A must-listen for anyone passionate about Chilean wine! 🍇

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

Eduardo Jordan (https://migueltorres.cl)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Getting to know Eduardo and Torres

(00:04:02) The vintage 2024 in Chile

(00:10:01) The profile of the 2024 wines

(00:13:47) The main markets for Torres 

(00:15:06) The communication strategies in different vintages

(00:17:02) The icon wines of Torres

In this episode, I’m diving deep into some wild stories from the wine world. Floods in Romania and Austria, fires in Portugal—nature is seriously testing the vineyards this year. But don’t worry, we’re not all doom and gloom. I’m also talking about solar panels in vineyards (yep, fighting climate change one grape at a time) and an unprecedented crisis distillation in Ribeira Sacra. Oh, and did you know Spanish supermarkets are now dating hotspots? 🍍 Plus, record-breaking Grey Goose moments at the US Open, space-aged wine, and a Hello Kitty wine ban... This one’s packed!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Throwback

(00:01:59) Severe floods in Romania, Austria and Hungary

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/flooding-impacts-vineyards-austria-and-romania

(00:06:17 ) Devastating fires in Portugal's vineyards

https://www.meininger.de/wein/erzeuger/braende-portugal-verheerend-fuer-weinberge

(00:07:56) Solar panels in vineyards can help fighting climate change

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/how-pv-systems-impact-vineyards

(00:10:59) Ribeira Sacra gets unprecedented crisis distillation authorised

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/ribeira-sacra-galician-government-authorises-unprecedented-crisis-distillation-538325/

(00:15:26) Spanish supermarkets become dating hotspots

https://fortune.com/europe/2024/09/06/spain-supermarket-pineapples-mercadona/

(00:17:47) Grey Goose brakes records at the US Open

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_vfnxdsTrF/?igsh=MTR0Znl1Mm1sazRweA%3D%3D

(00:19:30) Morgan Riddle and Taylor Fritz propose moderation at US Open

https://www.nylon.com/entertainment/morgan-riddle-taylor-fritz-heineken-love-love-us-open

(00:20:47) Hello Kitty wine banned from UK

ttps://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/hello-kitty-wine-banned-from-uk/

(00:22:35) Alibaba co-founder buys vineyards in Burgundy

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/alibaba-billionaire-joe-tsai-invests-in-burgundy-vineyards-537892/

(00:23:09) LVMH acquires vineyards in Burgundy for €15.5m

https://decotidien.com/actualite/lvmh-acquires-1-3-hectares-of-vineyards-in-cote-dor-for-e15-5-million.html

(00:25:17) German Wine Institute partners with the Institute of Masters of Wine

https://www.deutscheweine.de/news-medien/meldungen/meldung/812/deutsches-weininstitut-wird-offizieller-partner-des-institute-of-masters-of-wine

(00:27:18) Wine bottles sent to space for ageing came back differently

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_i2pe2pjYJ/?igsh=cmljYWw3ZzEzOG95

(00:28:37) Wine marathon sells out faster than a Taylor Swift concert

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/activity-and-adventure/marathon-du-mdoc-french-marathon-runners-wine-cheese/

In this episode we dive into the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in the world of gastronomy and hospitality (HORECA). From the potential use cases and exciting innovations to some notable failures and how they impact the industry, we explore how AI could be the key to future-proofing the kitchen and beyond. Plus, a practical guide on how to leverage tools like Google and ChatGPT for beginners. Curious if your next chef could be an algorithm? Tune in to find out!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) What does the future look like?

(00:04:41) Use Cases in HORECA

(00:09:41) Fails with AI

(00:10:45) The Potential for HORECA

(00:16:20) How we (should) use google

(00:19:03) How to ChatGPT for Beginners

n this episode, we dive into how Pinot Noir is making a surprising appearance in Bordeaux, as France anticipates one of its smallest vintages since WWII. We also discuss extravagant wine news, including €120k Petrus sangria and London’s Champagne and hot dog sensation. Explore the rise of the world’s strongest beer, the growing popularity of non-alcoholic draught options, and the latest innovation in alcohol-free spirits. Plus, we cover the campaign for responsible wine enjoyment, Heineken's safe driving initiative, and how AI is shaking up the beverage industry.

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Blame it on the weatherman

(00:01:37) Pinot Noir Makes Waves in Bordeaux

https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2024/09/bordeaux-leans-into-pinot-noir

(00:04:36) France awaits smallest vintage since WWII

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/france-to-produce-one-of-smallest-vintages-in-a-century/

(00:07:02) Bottles of Petrus used to make €120k sangria

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/bottles-of-petrus-used-to-make-e120k-sangria/

(00:08:54) Champagne & Hot Dogs Take London by Storm

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/hot-dog-popup-london-champagne-hotspot/

(00:11:28) World's Strongest Beer Hits 75% ABV

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/is-this-the-worlds-strongest-beer/

(00:13:04) Non-Alcoholic Draught Beer Is Gaining Increasing Popularity

https://www.just-drinks.com/features/whats-the-pull-for-non-alcoholic-draught-beer/?cf-view

(00:16:28) Harvard Researchers and Leading Statistician Stand Up to the WHO

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/insights/harvard-researchers-and-leading-statistician-stand-who

(00:20:50) Promoting Balance: Campaign for Responsible Wine Enjoyment Begins

https://www.der-winzer.at/news/2024/09/kampagne-fuer-mode-raten-weingenuss.html

(00:21:46) Big brands dominate the no-lo sector

https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2024/08/alcohol-brands-dominate-low-and-no-conversations/

(00:24:39) Seedlip founder opens  new non-alcoholic distillery

https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/2024/09/seedlip-founder-creates-non-alc-spirits-from-wood-sylva/

(00:26:58) The Ultimate Niche: Alcohol-Free Sparkling Orange Wine

https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sparkling-orange-wine

(00:29:01) F1 Star Backs Heineken's Safe Driving Simulator Initiative

https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/292285

(00:30:58) Diageo launches Generative AI experience

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/07/diageo-launches-generative-ai-experience/

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence and its increasing role in the wine industry. From understanding how AI is transforming vine growing processes to exploring the potential of an AI-powered sommelier, we cover current perspectives and real-world use cases. Stay tuned for a personal recommendation on how to integrate AI into your daily business!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:02:32) The rise of Artificial Intelligence

(00:12:09) Perspectives on AI usage

(00:18:31) Use cases in the wine industry

(00:33:50) Personal Use Recommendation 

In this week's episode, we dive into some of the biggest and most intriguing wine stories. The ProWein Business Report reveals a growing interest in digital tools and AI in the wine industry. Austria leads the world in organic wine production, while major players like Constellation Brands and Chapel Down report drops in sales.

In the realm of controversy, Pernod Ricard ends its sponsorship with PSG amid protests, and a court ruling declares that faulty natural wine is not a crime. Meanwhile, a New Yorker is suing his ex-wife for destroying his $600,000 wine collection.

On the brighter side, Hungary launches a marketing campaign in South Korea, Prosecco partners with AirBnB to boost wine tourism, and celebrity-backed wine brands are growing faster than ever. Oh, and Champagne Duval Leroy just got a tattoo - yes, you read that right!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:04:29) ProWein Business Report reveals growing interest in digital tools in the wine industry

https://www.meininger.de/wein/handel/wie-viel-ki-fuer-die-weinbranche

(00:09:37) Austria Leads the World in Organic Wine

https://www.oesterreichwein.at/presse-media/pressetexte/news/article/oesterreichs-bio-weinbauflaeche-so-gross-wie-nie

(00:11:38) Constellation Brands sees drop in wine & spirits sales

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/constellation-takes-2-5-billion-hit-on-wine-and-spirits/

(00:12:40) Chapel Down sees sales drop in 2023

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/chapel-down-blames-off-trade-challenges-for-profit-drop-as-ceo-exits/

(00:14:13) Pernod Ricard drops sponsorship with PSG after huge protests

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/pernod-ricard-drops-psg-deal-amid-controversy/

(00:16:34) Faulty natural wine is not a crime, court says

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/natural-wine-not-crime

(00:18:47) New Yorker sues ex wife for destroying his $600'000 wine collection

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/investment-wine-new-york-ski-house-divorce-lawsuit-b2607104.html

(00:21:47) Champagne Duval Leroy gets tattooed

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/champagne-duval-leroy-gets-tattooed/

(00:22:41 ) Wines of Hungary launches marketing campaign in South Korea

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/09/wines-of-hungary-launches-south-korea-campaign/

(00:24:26) Prosecco region partners with AirBnB to boost wine tourism

https://winenews.it/en/bookings-soar-in-veneto-vineyards-agreement-between-prosecco-docg-hills-and-airbnb_535348/

(00:26:29) Celebrity backed brands grow significantly faster than normal ones

https://www.theiwsr.com/how-impactful-are-celebrity-backed-brands/

This week, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jeremy Tod, Chief Winemaker at Giesen Wines, about the 2024 vintage in New Zealand. 🌏🍷 With 22 vintages under his belt, Jeremy shares why 2024 was a "Winemaker's Dream." From vineyard work to the unique challenges of crafting both alcoholic and non-alcoholic wines, Jeremy gives us an inside look at what made this year so special. If you're curious about what goes into a standout vintage, you won't want to miss this episode!

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

Jeremy Tod, Giesen Wines (https://giesen.co.nz/)

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Giesen Wines

(00:06:16) The vintage 2024 in New Zealand

(00:09:25) How to deal with vintage variations in marketing

(00:11:46) Wine vs. 0.0 wine

(00:16:57) 2025 hopes

(00:19:27) Gin as a by-product 

In this week's Weekly Update #188, we dive into the latest happenings in the world of wine, spirits, and beyond. From the start of the grape harvest in Germany to a record-breaking wine barrel race, we’re covering it all! 🌍🍇 Discover how a South African winery is using drones to drop wasps to battle vine pests, and why Gen Z is trading cheap booze for premium wines. Plus, we explore trends like the rise of tap wine and the shift toward premium wines in China. Don’t miss the quirky stories, like Beaujolais Nouveau now arriving in lemonade bottles and the UK’s potential ban on smoking in pub gardens. 🍷✈️ Stay updated with the latest developments in the wine and spirits world!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) Harvest in Germany started

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/harvest-begins-germany

(00:03:05) Crazy wine barrel race sees record winner in 2024

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAO9ZZgqAc4

(00:05:16) South African winery drone-drops wasps to fight leaf-roll virus

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/south-african-wine-producer-drone-drops-wasps-on-vineyard/

(00:07:09) Social Media usage in Germany declines

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/social-media-slightly-losing-influence-germany

(00:10:42) Can "Come Over October" change the negative view on alcohol?

https://www.comeoveroctober.com/why-this/

(00:13:10) Tap wine is trending - kegs and cans on the rise

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-13792955/tap-wine-trendy-wetherspoon.html

(00:15:54) Gen Z is ditching cheap alcohol in favor of expensive wines

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-13726913/Gen-Z-ditch-cheap-plonk-Young-drinkers-opting-expensive-bottles-heading-wine-RAVES-joining-YouTube-vino-club-consciously-aware-effects-alcohol.html

(00:19:08) The German Nutrition Society recommends avoiding alcohol

https://www.dge.de/wissenschaft/stellungnahmen-und-fachinformationen/positionen/alkohol/

(00:20:43) UK Government plans to ban smoking in pub gardens

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/government-plans-to-ban-smoking-in-pub-gardens/

(00:23:35) Ryanair CEO calls for drinks limits at airports

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/ryanair-ceo-calls-for-drinks-limits-at-airports/

(00:26:30) Emirates launches wine classes for cabin crew

https://www.emirates.com/media-centre/emirates-launches-elite-wine-learning-experiences-for-cabin-crew---lart-du-vin/

(00:28:22) Beaujolais Nouveau Now Comes in a Lemonade Bottle

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/beaujolais-nouveau-now-comes-lemonade-bottle

(00:30:37) Accolade CEO quits after deal with Pernod Ricard

https://winetitles.com.au/accolade-boss-reportedly-quits-after-merger-announcement/

(00:31:24) Treasury Wine Estates reports 8% rise in profit

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/treasury-wine-estates-reports-8-rise-in-profit/

(00:32:21) TWE to open own premium winery in China

https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/news/penfolds-invests-china

(00:33:23) TWE to sell cheaper labels to focus more on premium

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/treasury-to-sell-off-wolf-blass-and-blossom-hill/

(00:34:29) 19 Crimes calls out wine snobbery with "whine list"

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/08/19-crimes-calls-out-wine-snobbery-with-whine-list/

(00:37:26 ) Pernod Ricard invests in Lewis Hamiltons Non-Alcoholic Tequila brand

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

Just wrapped up my California wine trip, and I'm sharing everything you need to know! From a standout Zinfandel and the best Pinot Noir finds to insider tips on planning your own California wine journey. Plus, we’re digging into the truth behind Napa’s greenwashing and why its vineyards are under the spotlight. Whether you’re a wine lover or just curious, this episode’s got the scoop!

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

Shownotes:

(00:00:00) The story of a great Zinfandel

(00:04:38) California wine wrap-up

How to prepare a wine trip

https://youtu.be/DMplwKEoi0w

California Pinot Noir

https://youtu.be/dH6mh_8Gk90

The Sideways Story

https://youtu.be/bzcWxu5bZ0s

(00:11:54) Preparation, Reservation, Moderation

(00:23:09) Marketing, Storytelling and Washing

Napa Greenwashing

https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2024/08/is-napa-green-just-greenwashing

Ranking Napa’s vineyards

https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2024/08/ranking-napas-vineyard-areas

Missing rules in Napa

https://www.wine-searcher.com/m/2024/08/napa-should-avoid-european-style-rules

(00:36:32) The Alcohol-Free Paradise