The Wine Down Podcast

Video Version.

Orange wine is one of those styles that everyone’s talking about, but not everyone really understands. Is it a white wine? Is it a rosé? Is it just “funky natural wine”?

In this episode, I break down exactly what orange wine is in plain language, so you can walk into any shop or restaurant and feel confident about what you’re ordering and why it tastes the way it does.

We’ll get into how orange wine is actually made, what makes it different from white wine and rosé, and why that extended skin contact changes everything, from colour, to texture, to those wild flavour profiles people either love or side-eye. I also chat through what you can expect in the glass, from tea-like tannins to those savoury, citrusy, sometimes slightly oxidative notes, and where these wines are coming from around the world.

If you’ve ever stared at an orange wine on a list and thought, “Is this for me?”, this one’s for you. Hit play on the podcast if you want to listen while you go about your day, or watch the full video for the best experience with visuals, labels, and side-by-side examples that bring the whole orange wine story to life.

Resources: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/what-is-orange-wine

Tired of viral infographics pushing dry Pinot Noir with Kit Kat, Aero, or Coffee Crisp? 😩 In this Wine Down, I debunk the myths with real science: wine must match or beat the chocolate's sugar.

I also make mention of a key study, found in this blog, that breaks down the science behind pairing flavours. This is a must read.

Want to watch the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/FQye08z1y2U?si=h2rhsNSfKFL5VqeN

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the diverse terroirs that define Ontario’s three major wine appellations - the Niagara Peninsula, Lake Erie North Shore, and Prince Edward County. Discover how climate, soil, and geography shape the signature styles of Ontario wines, from the mineral-driven Chardonnays of Niagara to the expressive reds of Lake Erie North Shore and the vibrant, cool-climate wines of Prince Edward County. Full YouTube video with maps can be found here.

Wondering what "dealcoholized wine" vs "non-alcoholic wine" actually means? This episode breaks it down simply—no more label confusion when you're doing Dry January 2026, cutting back for health, pregnancy, sobriety, or faith reasons.

The Top 9 Wine Trends of 2025

2025 was less about one “hot grape” and more about how, when, and why people drink wine. Consumers are drinking a little less overall but are trading up when they do open a bottle, and they are more curious, health-conscious, and climate-aware than five years ago.​

In this episode we talk about the top 9 wine trends for 2025.

Here are links to some of the blogs we mention or that will help you unpack more of today's episode.

Corpinnat: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/celler-pardas-and-the-love-affair-i-have-with-it

Organic and Biodynamic wines: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/unveiling-the-essence-organic-and-biodynamic-wines-explained

Low to No Alcohol Wines: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/the-difference-between-non-alcoholic-and-dealcoholized-wine

In this episode we explore the beauty and complexity of Domaine Le Clos Jordanne’s Single Vineyard Clos De Kew 2023 Pinot Noir

In this detailed tasting journey, discover the unique limestone-rich terroir of the Beamsville Bench, reflected in vibrant aromas of red and black fruit, and subtle spice.Join us to uncover what makes Clos De Kew 2023 a true standout expression of Niagara’s premium terroirs!

Looking for the video version of this episode - here it is https://youtu.be/fdSzgOTIrk8?si=8DeYYgXzgxCtLD5N

Hosting the holidays just got easier. Discover the 3 essential wines you need to have at home for every guest, every occasion, and every last-minute invite.