Join The KrisXperience Show for a 45-minute swirl through Austria’s vineyards — from the steep terraces of Wachau to the iron-rich slopes of Eisenberg, and from the pink-tinged Schilcher to the legendary Heiligenstein.

It’s Austria’s wine story condensed: history, grapes, soils, and all DAC regions brought to life in one engaging, easy-to-follow episode. Smart, structured, but never stiff—it’s wine education with energy and flavour.

Pour yourself a glass, hit play, and taste why Austrian wine is fascinating.

In this episode, I’m joined by Derek Sandhaus, one of the leading Western voices on baijiu, China’s national spirit and the world’s most consumed spirit. We dive into pronunciation, production, styles, cultural rituals, food pairings, and history.

This conversation was actually recorded some time ago, but I’m thrilled to finally share it now. Baijiu is a world ofaromas/flavours, traditions, and stories, and Derek is the perfect guide to help us explore it. He is the author of several books on baijiu as well as the co-founder of Ming River Sichuan Baijiu.

Check out the latest episode on a subject that is dear to my heart: Natural wine. I'll also be talking briefly about my new book. Info is available through my website and also as an ebook through various third parties.

But also on what is natural wine

How to approach it

Demystify it somewhat and approach it with an open mind...but foremost, have fun.

Enjoy this episode!

Title: Sherry Wine: Then, Now, Next
Host: Kristian Kielmayer | The KrisXperience Show
Description:
In this deep-dive episode, Kristian Kielmayer—certified Sherry Educator and wine communicator—takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of Sherry wines. From its 3,000-year-old legacy and its golden age in global trade, to its evolution through scientific breakthroughs and legal reforms, this podcast uncovers how Sherry remains one of the world’s most storied and versatile wines.
Discover how styles like Fino, Amontillado, and Co. are made, learn about the importance of the Solera system, vineyard designations like pagos, and exciting regulatory updates that are redefining the region.
We also explore how Sherry is finding new life through food, cocktails, education, and travel—and why it's time for a new generation to rediscover Jerez.

🎙️ Topics include:

• Sherry wine styles and classification

• Ancient and modern history of Jerez

• British ties and pirate tales

• Recent legal and production changes

• Future potential: unfortified wines, terroir-driven bottlings, and new grape varieties

• How sommeliers, bartenders, and educators can bring Sherry to the spotlight

📍 Whether you’re a professional or a passionate wine lover, this episode will give you a fresh, engaging perspective on one of the world’s most misunderstood wines.

Merlot vs. Syrah: two iconic varieties, worlds apart—or are they? In this episode, we dive into the sensory secrets of these wines, exploring their similarities, differences, and what makes each so unique. Plus, I take it to the next level with a blind tasting to put theory into practice. Whether you're a wine geek or just curious, this episode will be fun and help you understand those two varieties. Join me on this journey...

In this episode, we're unpacking the story behind Bag-in-Box (BIB) wines. From its fascinating history to a side-by-side look at the pros and cons compared to traditional glass bottles, we’re diving into how this format shapes the way we experience wine today. Plus, I put it to the test with a blind tasting—because when it comes to wine, it’s all about what’s in the glass (or bag)! Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious about BIB wines, this episode is for you. 🍷

Hit play and join me on this sip-worthy journey!

In this episode, we embark on a captivating journey to the majestic Mount Fuji, a revered symbol of Japan that holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. As the old saying goes, "A wise man climbs Mt Fuji once, only a fool climbs it twice."

Join me as we explore the profound wisdom behind this adage and delve into the transformative experience of ascending Japan's highest mountain.

From the bustling Tokyo Bus Station to the serene 5th Station, I'll guide you through every step of the climb. Discover the unique challenges and rewards of the Yoshida Trail, where cozy huts provide refuge and camaraderie along the way. Feel the powerful energy of the sun as it rises over the horizon, casting a golden glow on the landscape despite the unpredictable weather.

This episode isn't just about the physical climb—it's about the spiritual enlightenment that comes with it. I'll reflect on the significance of Mount Fuji as a UNESCO World Heritage site and its inspiration in art and culture.

Tune in and let the story of Fujisan inspire your own journey, both on and off the mountain.

Useful links:

Bus: https://highway-buses.jp/course/fuji-5th.php

(Shinjuku -Fujigoko・Mt. Fuji 5th Station Line)

National Park & Co : https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/news/240513_yoshida_trail_reservation_en.html

https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/for-every-climber.html

Hut/Accomodation (where I stayed): https://www.fuji-toyokan.jp/

Other info: https://trulytokyo.com/mount-fuji-climbing-guide/

In this captivating episode, we delve deep into the world of Cachaça, the beloved Brazilian sugar cane spirit, with our esteemed guest, Mauricio Maia. Known for its rich history and diverse expressions, Cachaça is much more than just the base for the classic Caipirinha.

Mauricio Maia, an expert and ambassador par excellence of Cachaça, takes us on a journey through the vast and vibrant "big family" of this spirit. We explore how each bottle of Cachaça tells a unique story, offering a "single personality" yet showcasing "single expression within a diversity" of flavours and aromas.

From the raw, youthful whites to the sophisticated aged varieties, Mauricio shares insights on the art of Cachaça production and the intricate ageing processes that define

Join us as we uncover the layers of Cachaça's personality, understand the nuances of labels, and discover the magic of Jambu. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or new

Tune in and savour the essence of Cachaça with Mauricio Maia!

The wines:

2021 - Sauvignon blanc, Marlborough (New Zealand) - white

2008 – Mencia, Bierzo  Spain – red

The podcast was recorded back in October 2022 (reflecting the tasting note). While producers, of course are very relevant not only for quality but also overall, yet for this excercise they have not been mentioned.

The SAT: https://www.wsetglobal.com/media/3119/wset_l3_wines_sat_en_jun-2016.pdf

For official information always check the WSET website.

The official cupping protocol download form

https://www.scith.coffee/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/SCA-Cupping-Form.pdf

Other useful information from the SCA

https://sca.coffee/sca-news/read/evolving-the-sca-cupping-protocol-and-form-an-overview-of-the-pilot-testing-process

Checkout the Barista Hustle’s information

https://www.baristahustle.com/cupping-protocols/