It’s one of the most important things to understand for the wine drinker: where you buy your wine from matters. Local and independent shops actually TASTE what is available from the wholesalers, unlike the national chains that order via spreadsheet.

Here is Jason’s list of his favorite wine shops in town.

We’re releasing this episode on Beaujolais Nouveau day, one week ahead of Thanksgiving, and for the first time in years, I’m suggesting you buy a bottle. Not just any bottle, but ONE particular producer that I discuss in the show.

Learn more about that wine at https://twincitieswine.com/nouveau2020

A special interview with independent journalist and editor John Garland, who was a senior editor at The Growler magazine for years until its folding in August 2020. Our conversation ranges from the local beer scene to wine journalism and everything in-between. Learn more about John at johngarlandwrites.com.

This episode is brought to you by The Wine Workshop. Learn more at thewineworkshop.net.

A wine cellar doesn’t have to be confusing or disorganized. Here are four simple categories to organize your wines into, plus a bonus hint that you’ll appreciate years down the road.

Sommelier Jason Kallsen of Twin Cities Wine Education brings six suggestions geared toward this different-than-ever-before holiday season, including some general ideas on wine and Thanksgiving pairing, shopping advice, and the one food to avoid if you want to enjoy your wine.

For this episode, we welcome award winning journalist, broadcaster, and restaurant critic Jason DeRusha in for a wide-ranging interview. However, this was recorded in January 2020, about six weeks before the world changed. In many ways, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the world-that-was and will be followed up by another interview shortly focusing on the food and wine world of the Twin Cities during the pandemic.