🍷 Episode 150: Colorino – Tuscany’s Boldest Backstage Pass

In this episode, we’re shining a light on one of Tuscany’s unsung heroes: Colorino. It’s a bold, dark-skinned red grape that rarely takes center stage but plays a key role in the character and color of some of Italy’s most beloved blends.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:

- Why Colorino is often called the “color whisperer” of Chianti blends 
- How it helps bring structure, depth, and longevity to Tuscan wines 
- What the grape tastes like when bottled on its own—think brooding fruit, spice, and old-world charm 
- Where it grows best and how it’s being revived by modern winemakers 
- What to pair it with: from wild boar ragu to roasted lamb with rosemary 

So pour yourself a glass and get ready to meet a grape that proves sometimes the supporting role is the most essential of all. Don’t forget to hit follow or subscribe so you never miss a sip—and come explore the vast, delicious world of wine with us. 🍷

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🥂 Episode 149: Grechetto – Zesty Roots, Golden Sips

Curious about a white wine that’s full of texture, flavor, and Italian heritage? In this episode, we’re jetting off (well, figuratively) to Umbria to dive into an unsung hero of the Italian wine world — Grechetto. This grape may be flying under the radar, but trust us, it’s got personality, depth, and the perfect vibe for your next sunny afternoon glass.

Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:

- The fascinating (and possibly Greek!) origins of Grechetto 
- What makes it one of Umbria’s most beloved white wine grapes 
- Tasting notes ranging from citrus and chamomile to almond and hazelnut 
- How different winemaking styles bring out its zippy or creamy sides 
- Delicious food pairings — think grilled fish, truffle risotto, and more

So pop a cork, pour a glass, and sip along with us! Don’t forget to subscribe and join us each week as we explore more hidden gems of the wine world. Cheers!

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 148: Canaiolo – Tuscany’s Velvet Underdog

Today we’re diving into a grape that rarely gets the spotlight but plays a big part in some of Italy’s most iconic reds: Canaiolo. From medieval Chianti blends to modern-day hidden gems, Canaiolo is the unsung hero you didn’t know you needed in your glass.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How Canaiolo helped shape classic Chianti alongside (and even before!) Sangiovese 
- What makes its flavor profile so velvety, balanced, and food-friendly 
- Why this grape is perfect for that old-school Tuscan winemaking trick called “governo” 
- How altitude and terroir influence its flavor from floral to rustic 
- The best dishes to pair with this smooth, easygoing grape

So if you’re curious about the grapes quietly working their magic behind the scenes, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to hit subscribe—and keep exploring the wild, wonderful world of wine with us. Cheers!

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 147: Pallagrello Nero – Royals, Spice & Secret Vines

In this episode, we’re diving into one of southern Italy’s best-kept secrets: Pallagrello Nero. This red grape has everything — a royal backstory, stunning aromas, and a flavor that hits that perfect sweet spot between rustic charm and refined elegance.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

- The nearly-lost history of this grape (and how it made a big comeback) 
- Why the Bourbon kings of Naples planted it in their royal vineyard 
- What makes Pallagrello Nero’s flavor profile so uniquely captivating (hint: think black cherries, violets, and forest spice) 
- How volcanic soils and Campania’s climate shape the wine 
- Delicious food pairings that bring out its best side (spoiler: lamb lovers, this one’s for you)

If you’re curious about under-the-radar wine gems, you’re going to love this one. Don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss a pour — and keep exploring those hidden bottles! 🍷

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 146: Aleatico – Roses, Berries, and a Bit of Mystery

In this episode, we’re diving into a lesser-known Italian gem that’s fragrant, full of charm, and absolutely worth discovering—Aleatico. Whether sweet or dry, this red grape is one of the most aromatic you'll find and has a history as juicy as its flavor profile.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

- Why Aleatico smells like a garden in bloom and tastes like a berry dream
- The grape’s mysterious connection to Muscat and how that shapes its flavor
- Where Aleatico thrives—from Tuscan hillsides to Napoleon’s island exile
- How Aleatico wines are made, especially the luscious passito style
- Delicious food pairings, from chocolate desserts to tangy blue cheese

If you're curious about expressive wines with a twist, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to subscribe and join us each week as we explore the wide, wonderful world of wine—one grape at a time. Cheers!

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 145: Roditis – Greece in a Glass 

In this episode, we’re heading to sun-drenched Greece to uncover a grape that’s quietly been making waves for centuries—Roditis. It might not be a household name (yet), but this pink-skinned white grape delivers refreshing, seaside charm with every sip.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

- Why Roditis is a pink grape that makes white wine—and why that matters 
- The regions in Greece where Roditis shines brightest (hint: it’s all about altitude) 
- What makes modern Roditis so much better than its misunderstood past 
- How it features in both classic Retsina and crisp contemporary styles 
- Pairing tips that highlight its citrusy zip—think seafood, feta, and Mediterranean flavors 

If you’re thirsty for discovery, you’ll love this dive into one of Greece’s most underrated white grapes. Don’t forget to subscribe and check out our other episodes to explore even more delicious and fascinating wine varieties. Cheers!

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 144: Touriga Franca – Portugal’s Floral Powerhouse

In this episode, we’re zooming in on one of Portugal’s most under-the-radar yet essential red grapes: Touriga Franca. Often a behind-the-scenes star in both Port and Douro reds, this grape has a story full of elegance, spice, and surprising character.

Here’s what we’re uncorking in this episode:

- Why Touriga Franca is the most planted grape in the Douro Valley (and still a mystery to most!)
- The flavor profile: Think violets, blueberries, and velvet-smooth tannins
- How this grape balances power with perfume in both still and fortified wines
- Where it thrives — from steep river terraces to new-world experiments
- Perfect food pairings for its plush, spicy charm (spoiler: Moroccan dishes + smoky chorizo = yes please)

If elegant reds with personality are your jam, this one’s for you. Subscribe to the show and keep discovering the grapes that deserve a little more love in the spotlight 🍷✨

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 143: Cannonau di Sardegna – Island Spice, Ancient Soul

In this episode, we’re heading to the sun-soaked island of Sardinia to explore a bold and soulful red grape with ancient roots and a story to tell — Cannonau di Sardegna. From rustic charm to whispers of longevity, this grape brings depth, warmth, and a taste of one of the world’s most captivating wine regions.

Here’s what we’re uncorking today:
- The surprising history of Cannonau — and why it might predate Garnacha and Grenache
- What makes Sardinia's climate and soil perfect for this expressive variety
- Flavor vibes: lush red berries, earthy herbs, and a kiss of spice
- How this DOC wine fits seamlessly at your dinner table — from grilled meats to aged cheeses
- The fascinating connection between Cannonau and the long life of Sardinians

If you’re curious about old vines, regional treasures, or just want an excuse to open a rich, food-loving red, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to subscribe for more grape adventures — and explore past episodes for even more hidden gems in your next glass. Cheers! 🍷

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🍷 Episode 142: Mourisco Tinto – Whispers of the Douro

This episode is all about Mourisco Tinto, a quiet but captivating red grape rooted in the dramatic landscapes of Portugal’s Douro Valley. It may not be famous (yet!), but it's full of charm, subtlety, and stories waiting to be told.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

- Why Mourisco Tinto is nicknamed “the Pinot Noir of the Douro”
- What makes this grape so food-friendly—and chillable!
- How it went from background player in rustic field blends to solo star in boutique wines
- The mystery behind its many local names (and where it might be hiding)
- How winemakers bring out its elegant, juicy personality in the cellar

Pour yourself a glass, take a sip, and let’s celebrate this beautifully understated grape. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and explore more of the grapes less traveled. Cheers!

6 sec intro

21 sec outro

🥂 Episode 141: Falanghina – Sunshine in a Glass 

Ever heard of Falanghina? If not, get ready to meet your new favorite white grape. In this episode, we’re heading down to southern Italy to sip our way through the bright, zesty, and ancient world of Falanghina—a grape that feels like a seaside vacation in a bottle.

Here’s what you’ll discover: 
- Why Falanghina may have been sipped by Romans over 2,000 years ago 
- The difference between Falanghina Flegrea and Beneventana—and how volcanic soil makes a difference 
- Which foods pair perfectly with its citrusy charm (hint: seafood lovers, this one’s for you) 
- How winemakers preserve freshness, and what “sur lie” really means 
- A poetic origin story behind its name that ties back to ancient vineyard traditions 

Hit follow and come along as we explore the vibrant grapes of the world—one glass at a time.

6 sec intro

21 sec outro