In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko sits down with Sherwyn Veldhuizen and Marcel Giesen, the visionary winegrowers behind Bell Hill, one of New Zealand’s most distinctive producers of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. From a chance blind tasting that led Billy to discover their wines, to the couple’s deep Burgundian inspiration and painstaking work establishing Bell Hill on a former limestone quarry in North Canterbury, this conversation explores what makes their wines so compelling.

Sherwyn and Marcel reflect on their early days studying viticulture, their formative trips through Burgundy, and the long process of importing rootstocks that could thrive on Bell Hill’s high pH soils. They discuss the evolution of their vineyard—from their first plantings in 1997 to their recent experiments with extremely high-density vines—and share insights into single parcel bottlings, screwcap closures, cellar aging, and New Zealand’s growing reputation for world-class Chardonnay.

🎧 In this episode:
• The founding story of Bell Hill and its Burgundian inspiration
• How limestone soils and high-density planting shape wine expression
• The unique winemaking philosophy behind their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
• Why North Canterbury is one of New Zealand’s most unique wine growing regions
• Bell Hill’s evolving range, including rare single-vineyard releases
• Reflections on climate, vintage variation, and the future of New Zealand fine wine

This episode also includes a roundup of the week’s wine news: Napa’s cool summer and green harvesting risks, three producers to watch from an under-the-radar reds article, and why more sommeliers are ditching flutes in favor of white wine glasses for Champagne.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Vent Wine Podcast
00:38 Discovering Bell Hill Wines
01:59 Podcast Format Changes and Listener Feedback
03:55 Wine News: California's Cool Summer
05:51 Wine Recommendations: Hidden Gems
08:48 Champagne Glass Debate
10:43 Interview with Bell Hill Winemakers
25:30 Addressing Rootstock Issues
26:34 Introduction to Bell Hills Wines
27:36 Bell Hill's Unique Vineyard Practices
29:49 Challenges and Strategies in Wine Production
32:46 North Canterbury Wines
37:25 High-Density Planting Experiments
46:24 Winemaking Philosophy and Techniques
51:52 Current Vintages and Final Thoughts

📬 Want more? Share your feedback with Billy on Instagram @billygalanko_wine_nerd or by email at [email protected].

Follow, rate, and review the show to help spread the word—cheers!

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of Five Questions on the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Marcel Giesen and Sherwyn Veldhuizen, the visionary winegrowers behind Bell Hill Vineyard in North Canterbury, New Zealand. From the limestone-rich soils in the Weka Pass, the duo crafts small-lot, high-density Pinot Noir and Chardonnay inspired by the farming traditions of Burgundy.

We explore what makes Bell Hill so distinctive, from its limestone soils to their philosophy of “growing” wine rather than making it. Marcel and Sherwyn share which vintages have defined their journey, including their first Chardonnay in 2002 and a standout single-parcel expression from 2016. They also reflect on the influence of Champagne and Burgundy, their evolving approach to biodiversity and sustainability, and what lies ahead for the estate, including a sparkling wine project and long-term land stewardship goals.

📻 Tune in to learn:
• Why limestone, vine density, and terroir expression are central to Bell Hill’s identity
• How Burgundy’s wine-growing philosophy shaped their approach
• The role of vintage variation and what they’ve learned from their earliest wines
• What’s next for Bell Hill—from sparkling wine to rewilding and succession
• How they’re redefining what sustainable viticulture can look like in the New World

Subscribe to the Vint Wine Podcast for more conversations with the people shaping global wine culture.

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko welcomes Cokie Ponikvar, Advanced Sommelier, Master of Wine candidate, and the voice behind the educational Instagram account @cokiesworldofwine, for an in-depth conversation about wine study, communication, and global exploration.

Cokie discusses how to start learning about wine from the ground up, how she built her Instagram following by breaking down technical topics into approachable lessons, and how she prepared for both the Advanced Sommelier and Master of Wine exams. She shares her unique blind tasting method using hundreds of mini bottles, offers advice for building a cellar on a budget, and reflects on her wine travels across Burgundy, Champagne, and Germany.

Topics covered include:

• The differences between the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) and Master of Wine (MW) exam formats, especially in blind tasting and service
• Her at-home tasting setup using hundreds of mini bottles for varietal calibration
• How to start learning about wine and begin tasting with purpose before building a collection
• Recommended first bottles to age, and how to build a cellar on a modest budget (hint: Riesling)
• Why still wines from Champagne (Coteaux Champenois) are gaining attention in warm vintages
• The importance of remaining open-minded to new grape varieties and styles
• Cultural differences in wine appreciation across Canada, the UK, the U.S., and Europe
• Vineyard visits across Burgundy, Champagne, and Germany, including time spent with Peter Liem and a barrel tasting at Egly-Ouriet

🎧 Follow Cokie on Instagram: @cokiesworldofwine
📌 Subscribe to the Vint Wine Podcast for more interviews with the people shaping wine culture today.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast
00:28 Interview with Kki Pock Far: Introduction
00:59 Weekly Wine News: Champagne Harvest and Still Wines
03:04 Exploring the Serene Syrah Clone
05:15 Diving into the Interview with Kki
07:27 Kki's Wine Journey and Instagram Success
12:02 Advanced Sommelier Exam Insights
17:05 Tips for Wine Beginners and Enthusiasts
27:51 Sweet Wines and Alcohol Content
28:26 Regional Differences in Rieslings
29:16 Aging Wines: Rioja vs. Bordeaux
29:50 Wine Culture Across Continents
32:09 Wine Adventures and Tastings
32:28 Blending Wines with Sarah Jessica Parker
37:19 Exploring Vineyards Solo
48:15 Upcoming Wine Travels and Studies

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of Five Questions , we sit down with Cokie Ponikvar, Advanced Sommelier, Master of Wine candidate, and wine communicator, for a candid conversation about her journey in wine. Cokie shares what she’s drinking now (including Soldera and Château Rayas), reflects on the thrill of tasting iconic bottles for the first time, and highlights underrated regions like the Chablis and grape varieties like Albariño, Gruner Veltliner, and Melon de Bourgogne (the variety used in Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine). She also offers practical tips on temperature’s role in wine enjoyment, from chilling red wines to letting Champagne evolve over dessert, and opens up about the physical and mental demands of preparing for the MW exam.

🎧 In this episode:
• How Cokie uses Instagram to share her study journey and wine insights
• What it’s like tasting legendary wines for the first time with deep knowledge
• Underrated regions she loves—from Chalônais to Montevertine to Muscadet
• Why wine temperature matters more than most people think
• The physical and emotional toll of preparing for the MW exam

Follow Cokie on Instagram @cokiesworldofwine and subscribe to the Vint Wine Podcast for more conversations with the people shaping wine culture today.

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko welcomes Matt Day, Head Winemaker at Klein Constantia, for a deep dive into one of South Africa’s most historic and forward-thinking wine estates. From reviving the legendary Vin de Constance, a wine once sipped by Napoleon, to pioneering terroir-driven Sauvignon Blancs in the Cape’s cool-climate vineyards, Matt shares his journey and winemaking philosophy in rich detail.

Listeners will also hear about South Africa’s evolving wine landscape, how Klein Constantia balances centuries of legacy with biodynamic practices and forward-thinking viticulture, and why Sauvignon Blanc deserves more serious attention. Plus, Matt explains how a single magnum of homemade Syrah helped him land the job of a lifetime.

Topics Covered:

• The legacy and revival of Vin de Constance, one of the world’s great historic sweet wines
• Matt Day’s early journey and how he became Head Winemaker at just 26
• The global influences shaping Klein Constantia’s Sauvignon Blanc program
• Why the estate grows 65% Sauvignon Blanc and produces multiple terroir-driven bottlings
• How Klein Constantia integrates organic, biodynamic, and precision farming
• The role of predators, pests, and even tourists in vineyard management
• The estate’s 340-year anniversary and what’s next for South African fine wine

Book Referenced: The Wines of South Africa by Jim Clarke - https://amzn.to/40zFEmu

Link to Klein Constantia Website: https://www.kleinconstantia.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast
01:06 Exploring South African Wine Regions
04:27 Most Expensive Sauvignon Blanc
10:09 Interview with Matt Day Begins
10:54 Matt Day's Journey in Winemaking
16:46 The Legacy of Klein Constantia
22:31 Sustainability and Innovation at Klein Constantia
27:14 Focus on Sauvignon Blanc
30:41 Exploring Soil Types and Their Impact on Wine
31:16 Innovative Winemaking Techniques
32:32 Understanding Vineyard Blocks and Harvesting
34:24 The Art of Single Vineyard Wines
36:18 The Unique Vanda Constance Wine
44:54 Challenges and Innovations in Winemaking
53:43 Celebrating 340 Years of Winemaking
55:20 Conclusion and Future Outlook

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of Five Questions on the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Matt Day, head winemaker at Klein Constantia, one of South Africa’s most historic and celebrated wine estates. Located on the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town, Klein Constantia is renowned for producing the legendary Vin de Constance, a wine once enjoyed by Napoleon Bonaparte and Jane Austen, and for elevating Sauvignon Blanc to new heights in the New World.

Highlights:

• What makes Klein Constantia’s terroir so unique in the Constantia Valley
• The legacy and revival of Vin de Constance, South Africa’s iconic sweet wine
• His inspirations from regions like Sancerre, Tokaj, Napa, and Saint-Émilion
• Landmark vintages in his winemaking journey, including 2010, 2007, 2012, and 2021
• What the future holds for Sauvignon Blanc and the estate’s global aspirations

📌 Be sure to check out our full-length interview with Matt Day following this episode, where we go deeper into his winemaking philosophy, Klein Constantia’s historic vineyards, and the global legacy of Vin de Constance.

🔗 Follow, rate, and share the show to hear more stories from the world of fine wine.

Cheers! 🍷

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, we’re joined by Charlotte Read, General Manager of Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers. Charlotte shares her unique journey from growing up on a vineyard in the 1970s to leading global branding efforts for one of the world’s most exciting wine-producing countries. We explore New Zealand's enduring success with Sauvignon Blanc, the rise of Pinot Noir and Syrah, and how the country is advancing sustainability, innovation, and regional storytelling.

Charlotte offers expert insight into:

• The evolution of the New Zealand wine industry since the 1970s
• Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and its growing stylistic diversity
• Why New Zealand Pinot Noir is gaining global prestige
• Trends in low- and no-alcohol wines and vineyard-driven innovation
• Sustainability leadership and the 30-year legacy of SWNZ
• Expanding into new markets including China, South Korea, and India
• How New Zealand is adapting to Gen Z preferences and digital storytelling

Plus, Charlotte shares highlights from the recent Pinot Noir conference and explains the national brand platform “Altogether Unique,” built on purity, innovation, and care.

🎧 Whether you're a wine student, collector, or just a curious drinker, this conversation is a must-listen for understanding the past, present, and future of New Zealand wine.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast
00:43 Exciting Giveaways Announcement
03:59 Wine News Highlights
07:06 Interview with Charlotte Reed
12:06 Exploring New Zealand Wines
22:58 New Zealand Wine Industry Insights
26:05 Consumer-Driven Innovation
26:19 Building the New Zealand Wine Story
27:09 Expanding Beyond Sauvignon Blanc
28:18 Pinot Noir's Rising Prominence
29:10 The Impact of the Pinot Noir Conference
37:32 Sustainability in New Zealand Wine
40:16 Future Trends and Innovations
44:42 Global Market Expansion
46:41 Engaging Younger Wine Consumers
50:20 Resources for Learning About New Zealand Wines

Link to Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wineenthusiastsandcollectors/

News Article 1: https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/07/opus-one-earns-prestigious-butterfly-mark/

News article #2: https://www.foodandwine.com/champagne-rare-grape-wines-11767893

📍 For more on New Zealand’s wine regions, visit:

• New Zealand Wine Discovery Course: https://www.nzwine.com/en/trade/learning/discovery-course/
• Website: https://www.nzwine.com/en/about-us/
• New Zealand Winegrower Magazine https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/nzwm/
• NZ Wine Video: https://youtu.be/WJYKfaC6n4Q

NZ Wine Reports & Sustainability:

• Annual report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/statistics-reports/nzw-annual-report/
• Sustainability Report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report/
• Roadmap to Net Zero 2050:  https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/roadmap-to-net-zero/

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of 5 Questions, we sit down with Charlotte Read, GM of Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers, the national organization representing more than 1,400 growers and wineries across the country.

Charlotte shares what’s exciting her most in wine right now (spoiler: Pinot Noir by the fire), highlights underrated New Zealand wine regions like Nelson, Waiheke Island, and Gisborne, and discusses how packaging innovation could reshape the future of wine consumption. We also dive into her most memorable wine experiences from traveling across the globe, from India to Thailand—always through the lens of New Zealand’s premium winemaking identity.

Whether you're a casual enthusiast or seasoned collector, this quick conversation offers a glimpse into the evolving story of New Zealand wine on the world stage.

Listen in to discover:

• Charlotte’s current go-to wine and perfect pairing
• Lesser-known New Zealand wine regions to explore
• How changing lifestyles are pushing wine packaging innovation
• Why New Zealand wine succeeds globally—and what’s next
• A story from the vineyards of India, China, and beyond

👉 Subscribe for more interviews with the people shaping wine culture.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Five Questions
00:42 Meet Charlotte Read
00:50 Charlotte's Role in the Wine Industry
01:22 Current Wine Favorites
02:12 Underrated New Zealand Wine Regions
04:12 Exciting Wine Trends
05:48 Memorable Wine Experiences
06:52 Conclusion

📍 For more on New Zealand’s wine regions, visit:

• New Zealand Wine Discovery Course: https://www.nzwine.com/en/trade/learning/discovery-course/
• Website: https://www.nzwine.com/en/about-us/
• New Zealand Winegrower Magazine https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/nzwm/
• NZ Wine Video: https://youtu.be/WJYKfaC6n4Q

NZ Wine Reports & Sustainability:

• Annual report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/statistics-reports/nzw-annual-report/
• Sustainability Report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report/
• Roadmap to Net Zero 2050:  https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/roadmap-to-net-zero/

Some places have unblemished sunlight, young soil or beautiful water. Others have innovation, passion for the craft or care for the land. But only one place has the purity of it all... New Zealand Wine - Altogether Unique

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko sits down with Emily Faulconer, Head Winemaker and Technical Director at Viñedos Familia Chadwick, the acclaimed Chilean estate behind Seña and Viñedo Chadwick. Recently named one of the most influential figures in Chilean wine, Emily shares her journey from Viña Carmen to Chadwick, her vision for sustainability and biodynamics, and the challenges and rewards of crafting world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends in Puente Alto and Aconcagua.

Emily and Billy also taste and discuss multiple vintages of Seña and Viñedo Chadwick, offering a rare opportunity to hear how these wines evolve over time. They cover everything from vineyard strategy and canopy management to stylistic decisions, the legacy of Eduardo Chadwick, and Chile’s growing recognition on the global fine wine stage.

Topics Covered:

• Emily’s path to becoming Technical Director at Viñedos Familia Chadwick
• The biodynamic philosophy and viticulture behind Seña and Viñedo Chadwick
• Tasting notes and vintage comparisons (2009, 2020, 2021 Seña; 2016, 2018 Viñedo Chadwick)
• The legacy of Eduardo Chadwick and ties to the Mondavi family
• The Berlin Tasting and Chile’s emergence in the fine wine world
• Future goals for sustainability, terroir expression, and ageability

Featured Wines:

• Seña 2009, 2020, 2021
• Viñedo Chadwick 2016, 2018

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast
01:07 4th of July Story: A Visit to Livermore
06:10 News of the Week: Trebbiano Spoletino
09:15 Emily Falconer's Career Journey
17:32 The Transition Back to Viñedos Chadwick
19:26 Overview of Viñedos Familia Chadwick's Portfolio
25:49 Introduction to Vineyard Philosophy
26:44 Exploring Seña: A Modern Classic
29:10 Viñedos Chadwick: A Family Legacy
35:03 Viticulture Techniques and Climate Adaptation
40:56 Comparing Seña and Viñedos Chadwick
43:55 Chilean Wines on the Global Stage
49:40 Conclusion and Recommendations

Subscribe & Follow:
Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop weekly.
👉 vintmarketplace.com/podcast

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!

In this episode of 5 Questions, host Billy Galanko sits down with Emily Faulconer, Technical Director of Viñedos Familia Chadwick, with direct oversight of the iconic labels Seña and Viñedo Chadwick, two of Chile’s most iconic and ageworthy red wines. She was recently named one of Los Más Influyentes del Vino, a major annual survey of over 40 leading figures in the Chilean wine trade.

Emily shares insight into Seña’s coastal vineyards, discusses the influence of Bordeaux and Burgundy on her winemaking philosophy, and reflects on standout vintages like 2018 and 2021. She also talks about her long-term vision for Seña, one centered on consistency, adaptability, and climate resilience through biodynamic viticulture.

Topics covered include:

• Seña’s vineyard location and grape varieties
• What makes Seña a “modern classic” in Chilean wine
• Global inspirations behind Emily’s winemaking approach
• Standout vintages and what made them exceptional
• What’s ahead for Seña in the next decade

Whether you're a fan of Chilean wine, Bordeaux-style blends, or simply curious about how great wines adapt to changing climates, this is a conversation not to miss.

📍 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
🍷 Learn more and shop Seña wines at vintmarketplace.com

🎧 Be sure to check out the full interview with Emily on Seña and Viñedo Chadwick, to be released following this episode.

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!