Wine Behind The Scenes

This week, we uncork a standout episode from the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives featuring a story of passion, persistence, and building something unexpected in the world of wine.

From the vineyards of France and Italy to the vibrant streets of Seattle, today's episode of Wine Behind the Scenes takes you on a remarkable adventure with Marilee Bramhall, the visionary founder of Iola Wines. With a mission to champion women-led wineries, Marilee's story is one of resilience and innovation, especially when COVID-19 hit, leaving her with 3,600 bottles of wine and no market to sell to.

How did she turn this challenge into a thriving success?

Join us as we go into Marilee's passion for organic, sustainable viticulture, her dedication to the art of winemaking, and her commitment to amplifying the voices of women in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Plus, don't miss our fun segment with Judith Lewis, where we explore today's quirky wine term that will leave you smiling. Get ready to sip, savour, and explore the fascinating world of wine! In this episode you will:

• Discover how Marilee Bramhall turned a potential disaster during COVID into a thriving wine import business focused on women-led wineries.
• Learn about the unique challenges and rewards of running a global wine import company, especially in a male-dominated industry.
• Explore the significance of organic, biodynamic, and sustainable viticulture, and how women in the wine industry are often at the forefront of these practices.
• Gain insights into the importance of building relationships with wine producers and the value of experiencing wine firsthand in its country of origin.
• Understand the current landscape of women in winemaking, including statistics and the ongoing efforts to increase representation.
• Get tips for aspiring wine importers, including the importance of research, understanding regulations, and starting before you're ready.

Marilee Bramhall is a passionate wine importer based in Seattle, Washington, with a mission to showcase exceptional wines from women-led wineries in France and Italy. With a deep-rooted love for wine that began in her childhood, Marilee has dedicated her career to elevating the voices of female winemakers in an industry where they are often underrepresented.

Her path into the world of wine was inspired by her father, an enthusiastic wine lover, who introduced her to the joys of wine at a young age. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion that has taken her across the globe, exploring the rich histories and traditions of winemaking in Europe. Marilee travels to France and Italy three to four times a year, not only to source wines but also to lead food and wine tours, sharing her knowledge and love for wine with others.

In 2017, Marilee founded Iola Wines, named after her grandmother, to focus exclusively on importing wines from women winemakers who practice organic, biodynamic, and sustainable viticulture. Her commitment to supporting female-led wineries stems from her observations of the gender disparities in the wine industry, where less than 20% of winemakers worldwide are women.

Marilee's expertise and dedication have made her a unique voice in the wine community, and she is on a mission to democratize the world of wine, making it more inclusive and accessible for all. When she's not busy curating exceptional wines, Marilee enjoys sharing her experiences and insights through various platforms, including her podcast appearances and social media.

Connect with Marilee and discover the incredible wines from women-led wineries at lola Wines! Contact Marilee Bramhall here:

• Website: https://www.iolawines.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iolawines
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iola.wines
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marileebramhall/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/iolawines

From the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives, we're bringing back a captivating conversation about wine, sustainability, and the journey of starting over in France.

From buying a vineyard in liquidation to transforming it into a sustainable and award-winning estate, Caro Feely's story is extraordinary. Join us on this episode of Wine Beyond the Scenes as Caro shares her amazing story of passion, perseverance, and the magic of organic winemaking in the heart of France. Stay tuned to discover the hidden gems of their vineyard, the challenges of climate change, and the surprises that led to the creation of a unique wine experience. In this episode you will be able to learn about:

• Caro Feely's wild and wonderful adventure of moving from South Africa to France to buy a vineyard in Bordeaux
• The Feely family's journey from liquidation to success in the wine industry
• Organic and biodynamic farming practices, leading to high-quality wines and commercial success
• Caro's beautifully written Vineyard Series books that offer insights into their journey and philosophy
• An exciting new fiction series, Earth Chorus, that is in the works

Caro Feely, originally from South Africa with Irish roots, set out on an extraordinary adventure to make their dream of wine farming a reality, accompanied by her husband Sean. After moving from South Africa to Ireland and then to France, they purchased a vineyard and winery in Bordeaux, where they have been living for almost 20 years. Caro and Sean's commitment to organic farming and natural winemaking has led to the production of high-quality wines, including classic Bordeaux varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon. Caro's passion for wine and sustainability is evident in their vineyard practices, which focus on biodiversity and organic farming methods. Alongside managing the vineyard, Caro also offers yoga retreats at their estate and has authored several books, including the Vineyard Series and the upcoming Earth Chorus series. Caro and Sean have created a sustainable and thriving vineyard in the heart of Bordeaux through their dedication to environmental practices and producing exceptional wines. Contact Caro Feely here:

• Personal Website: https://carofeely.com/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@carofeely1142
• X: https://x.com/carofeely
• Work Website: https://chateaufeely.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caro.feely.wines
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carofeely/

From the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives, we're revisiting a standout episode that makes navigating wine in social settings feel a whole lot easier. In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, I sit down with Juliette Han, a fellow wine lover who isn't afraid to ask the honest questions about choosing wine, especially in high-pressure moments like business dinners or group settings. From decoding wine lists to working with sommeliers, we explore how to approach wine with more confidence and less stress. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to confidently order wine in social and professional settings, even if you're not an expert
• Tips for choosing versatile, crowd-pleasing wines for group dining
• When (and how) to lean on a sommelier without feeling awkward or overspending
• The truth about screw caps vs. corks and why one doesn't mean better quality
• How wine can break the ice and elevate the connection at the table
• Why wine should be fun, approachable, and never intimidating

Juliette Han is a passionate wine enthusiast with a curious and open-minded approach to wine and dining. Based in New York City, she brings a relatable voice to the wine conversation, asking thoughtful questions that reflect what many of us think but don't always say aloud. Her background in business and love for hospitality make her the perfect guest to explore how wine intersects with social dynamics, etiquette, and the occasional awkward menu moment. Our conversation is down-to-earth, informative, and a reminder that enjoying wine should feel good, never intimidating. If you've ever stressed about ordering wine, this episode is for you! Listen now to Wine Behind the Scenes on your favourite podcast app, and don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Please share this episode with a friend who's ever said, "You choose the wine, I have no idea!"

This week, we revisit a standout episode from the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives, one that invites you to break away from routine. Nothing could be more monotonous than sticking to the same flavours and combinations, meal after meal. Keeping your palate interested and excited through varying wine and food pairings can lead to a much more enjoyable experience. That's where experimentation and personal preferences play a significant role. Exploring new territory and challenging the palate can lead to beautiful discoveries you wouldn't have stumbled upon otherwise. My guest, Allison Pearce, a trailblazer in wine and food pairing, strongly advocates for this notion of experimentation. In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover unconventional pairing wine and food strategies to elevate your next dinner party.
• Challenge traditional pairing norms and unlock new culinary experiences.
• Learn how to pair wines successfully with tricky ingredients like garlic or tomatoes.
• Find out how to cleverly use wines to complement missing flavours in your dishes.
• Understand how personal taste shapes your enjoyment of wine and why it should be embraced.

With a career beginning at Canada's grand La Coast Hotel in the late 90s, Allison quickly learned the art, being trained by a sommelier. She not only embraced the discipline but revolutionized it with her unique approach. Over time, her understanding of wine pairing has evolved, breaking traditional rules and norms. Armed with her knowledge, she started experimenting with unorthodox pairings that caught people's interest. A firm believer in flipping traditional pairings on their heads, she confidently pairs whites with red meats and vice versa. Her daring approach extends to matching wines to complement or contrast the food's flavour, challenging common misconceptions. She emphasizes that enjoying wine and food isn't confined to the classic pairings we're used to. Her innovative ideas extend to pairing wines with side dishes instead of the main course, a move unheard of in conventional circles. This avant-garde approach has become Allison's signature style, making her a food and wine pairing pioneer. Contact Allison: https://www.instagram.com/allifpearce/ https://twitter.com/allisonfpearce

This week, we're revisiting the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives and bringing back one of our most popular episodes. In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons sits down with Dr. Antonia Mantonakis, also known as The Wine Psychologist, to explore how celebrity culture and subtle psychological triggers shape our wine choices, whether we realize it or not. From wine-tasting experiments with Olympic athletes to the endowment effect (a real thing!) and why we're more likely to buy something we've physically touched, Antonia shares her fascinating research into the subconscious forces behind buying and enjoying wine. This is a conversation that's as playful as it is eye-opening, especially when the person on the label might be altering your taste buds. Plus, Judith Lewis joins us at the end for a spirited take on the wonky wine term "firm finish." What does that even mean, anyway? What You'll Learn:

• How celebrity endorsements change how wine tastes
• The psychology behind touching a bottle and wanting to buy it
• Why marketing matters more than most people think when it comes to wine
• How our expectations shape the way we smell and taste wine
• What the "endowment effect" is and how it shows up in tasting rooms

Dr. Antonia Mantonakis is a professor of marketing and consumer psychology at Brock University and a Fellow at the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute. Known as The Wine Psychologist, she has been featured in media outlets like CNN, The New York Times, and The Globe and Mail for her work on the subconscious factors that influence how we choose and enjoy wine. Her research blends science, psychology, and wine culture in ways that challenge what we think we know about our preferences—and she's here to break it all down for us. Ever picked a wine just because of who was on the label? This episode might explain why. Listen now at winebehindthescenes.com

This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes. Today, we step beyond the vineyard and into the world of tea with renowned expert Nicole Wilson. Tea and wine share more in common than you might think! Both are shaped by terroir, tradition, and time. Nicole, a passionate educator and writer with over 15 years of experience, takes us on an adventure through the rich flavours, brewing techniques, and cultural significance of tea, revealing its fascinating parallels with wine. Whether you're a devoted tea drinker or a wine enthusiast, this episode will open your eyes to the artistry behind both beverages. So, pour yourself a cup, settle in, and prepare for an enlightening conversation that might just change the way you sip and savour forever! In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the fascinating parallels between tea and wine, including their shared origins from single plants: Camellia sinensis for tea and Vitis vinifera for wine.
• Learn about the importance of terroir in both beverages and how the environment influences flavour profiles, with specific examples from tea grown in the Wuyi Mountains.
• Explore the concept of aging in tea, particularly with Pu-erh tea, and how it can change flavour over time, similar to wine.
• Uncover the art of pairing tea with food, including unique combinations like tea and cheese, and how tea can enhance culinary experiences.
• Gain insights into emerging trends in the tea industry, including the shift towards single-origin teas and the growing interest in tea education among consumers.

Nicole Wilson is a renowned tea expert and the creator of the popular blog, Tea For Me Please, which recently celebrated its 16th anniversary. Growing up in a household where tea was a daily ritual, Nicole's passion for this ancient beverage blossomed during her college years when she sought alternatives to coffee. Her journey into the world of tea deepened when she began writing for a tea website, receiving samples from around the globe and sharing her insights with an eager audience. With a focus on education, Nicole has transitioned her blog from product reviews to a rich resource for tea enthusiasts, exploring the complexities and nuances of tea. She is currently pursuing certification as a Tea Sommelier through the Tea and Herbal Association of Canada, further solidifying her expertise in the field. Nicole's extensive knowledge extends beyond tea; she has also worked in a wine shop, where she discovered fascinating parallels between tea and wine. Her unique perspective on the similarities between these two beloved beverages has made her a sought-after speaker and educator. In addition to her writing, Nicole is passionate about the cultural and social significance of tea, often drawing connections to its historical roots and the communal experiences it fosters. With over 150 varieties of tea in her collection, she continues to explore new flavours and pairings, including innovative recipes that blend tea with wine. When she's not sipping on her favourite brews or sharing her knowledge with others, Nicole can be found engaging with her audience on various social media platforms, where she inspires a growing community of tea lovers. Discover more about her journey and insights at TeaForMePlease.com. Contact Nicole Wilson here:

• Website: https://www.teaformeplease.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teaformeplease
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@therealteaformeplease
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolewilsontea
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleamartin/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/teaformeplease1/
• Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/teaformeplease
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/teaformeplease

This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes. Find out how one of the world's leading wine economists got his start in wine economics over 40 years ago during a budget vacation in Napa Valley. Discover the amazing adventure Mike Veseth had, and let's enjoy the fascinating and surprisingly fun world of wine economics here at Wine Behind the Scenes, where wine, life, and fun intersect. In this episode you will be able to:

• Wine consumption reflects economic conditions, with luxury wines holding up better in times of stagnation
• The concept of the "wine wall" in stores influences consumer behavior and purchasing decisions
• Psychology plays a significant role in wine marketing and consumer choices
• Explore the Wine Economist newsletter for more insights and analysis on the wine industry
• Discover unique wine tourism experiences, such as stargazing events at wineries

Mike Veseth, known as the wine economist, is an amazing guest with over 40 years of experience in the world of wine economics. His story began during a budget vacation in Napa Valley, where a chance encounter with a winemaker sparked his interest in the economic side of the wine industry. Since then, Mike has become a leading figure in the field, sharing his wisdom through his book "Wine Wars" and his popular Wine Economist newsletter. With a keen eye for the intersection of wine, economics, and human behavior, Mike shares the complexities of the wine market, from the psychology of consumer choices to the impact of global economic trends on wine sales. His expertise extends beyond traditional wine regions, as he explores the nuances of wine walls in supermarkets and the evolving landscape of wine tourism. As a sought-after speaker and writer, Mike's ability to blend economic analysis with the art and pleasure of wine makes him a compelling guest for anyone interested in the fascinating world of wine economics. Join him on the Wine Behind the Scenes podcast to discover the hidden stories behind the economics of wine and the delightful adventure of wine tourism. Contact Mike Veseth here:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-veseth-52881021/
• Website: https://wineeconomist.com/

This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes. Imagine going from the stress of corporate life to the tranquillity of owning a winery. Well not quite. Marzia and Bob Murdoch, left their corporate careers in Toronto to pursue their dream of owning a winery in Niagara's scenic wine country. Their path was far from smooth. Just as they started, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, bringing unexpected challenges. From battling tough weather conditions to learning how to run a winery, Marzia and Bob faced it all. But their passion for winemaking and hospitality transformed both their lives and their business. Tune in to hear how they turned adversity into a thriving winery, producing award-winning wines and creating a vibrant community. This episode is full of inspiration, resilience, and plenty of reasons to raise a glass! In this episode you will be able to:

• Discover the inspiring journey of Marzia and Bob Murdoch, who made a bold 180-degree life change by purchasing a winery in Niagara during the challenges of COVID-19.
• Learn about the unique challenges they faced, including losing their first crop to winter kill and navigating the complexities of running a winery without prior experience in farming or hospitality.
• Understand the three distinct businesses involved in winery operations: farming, winemaking, and sales, and how Marzia and Bob tackled each aspect.
• Hear about their innovative strategies for marketing and sales, especially during the pandemic, including building a new website and implementing e-commerce solutions.
• Explore the importance of community and networking within the wine industry, and how collaboration with other wineries has been beneficial for their growth.
• Gain valuable advice for anyone considering entering the winery business, emphasizing the need for hard work, dedication, and a realistic understanding of the industry.

Marzia and Bob Murdoch are the dynamic duo behind 180 Wines, a boutique winery located in the picturesque Jordan Station of Niagara, Ontario. After spending over 30 years in corporate careers in Toronto, they made a bold decision to pivot their lives and embrace the world of winemaking just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. With no prior experience in farming or hospitality, they faced numerous challenges, including losing their first crop to winter kill. However, their determination and passion for their new venture have transformed their lives for the better. At 180 Wines, Marzia and Bob focus on quality over quantity, producing approximately 2,500 cases of wine each year. Their commitment to craftsmanship is evident in their award-winning wines, including their 2020 Meritage and 2020 Gamay Noirs, which received accolades at the prestigious Decanter Awards in the UK. The couple has also integrated their family into the business, with their two daughters contributing to various aspects of winery operations, from marketing to staffing. Marzia and Bob are not just winemakers; they are also dedicated community members who actively engage with other local wineries and participate in events that promote the Niagara region. Their winery features a charming bistro and event space, offering a unique culinary experience that complements their wines. With a love for entertaining and a commitment to creating memorable experiences for their guests, Marzia and Bob invite you to join them at 180 Wines for a taste of their passion and dedication to the art of winemaking. Contact Marzia and Bob Murdoch here:

• Website: www.180wines.ca
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/180wines/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/180wines/

This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes, with Liesel Meissner, for a fun, informative, and completely unpretentious conversation about wine with host Laurel Simmons. Tired of feeling overwhelmed in wine shops and lost reading restaurant lists, Liesel came armed with questions, and Laurel delivered the answers. From understanding residual sugar and decoding trendy terms like "orange wine" and "pet-nat," to what wine to bring to a business dinner, this episode strips away the mystery and seriousness and gets real about what makes wine enjoyable and accessible. If you've ever stared at a wine list in panic, wondered whether corks are better than screw tops, or just wanted to know why some wine smells like wet gravel, this is the episode for you. What You'll Learn:

• What residual sugar means and how it affects taste
• Why orange wine and pet-nats are making waves
• When (and why) to aerate or decant your wine
• The truth about corks, screw tops, and bottle closure
• How to choose wine for a professional dinner
• Tips for recognizing quality without relying on price tags
• Why wine doesn't have to be serious to be seriously good

Liesel Meissner is a wine-curious traveller, reader, and enthusiastic learner who's made it her mission to understand wine on her own terms. Whether sipping Malbec in Mendoza or exploring wineries in Lebanon, she's passionate about discovering regional wines and sharing great bottles with friends. She's not a sommelier, just someone who wants to hear, "Liesel, great choice!" more often. Want to feel more confident picking wine? Start here. Listen now at www.winebehindthescenes.com

This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes, exploring the captivating connection between wine and romance with the delightful Amy Riley, a leading expert in aphrodisiac foods and a passionate wine lover. From ancient myths to modern romantic dinners, wine has always played a key role in seduction. Amy shares her fascinating journey from selling wine in Sonoma County to becoming an authority on aphrodisiac foods. Together, we uncover the science behind wine's seductive powers, the aromas that spark desire, and tips for crafting the perfect romantic pairing. Whether you're planning a special date night or simply curious about wine's allure, this episode is sure to inspire. So pour yourself a glass and join us! In this episode you will be able to:

• Discover the fascinating intersection of wine and romance, exploring their historical and cultural ties.
• Learn about the origins of aphrodisiac foods and how they relate to wine, including insights from ancient Greek and Roman mythology.
• Understand the role of wine in romantic settings and how it enhances the dining experience.
• Explore the science behind wine aromas and their effects on sexual arousal, including insights from Dr. Max Lake's research.
• Find out which specific wine scents are most appealing to men and women, and how they relate to pheromones.

Amy Reiley is an expert on the intersection of wine, food, and romance. With a background that began in the tasting room of a Sonoma County winery, Amy quickly discovered her passion for wine and its rich history. She honed her writing skills as a freelance writer before pursuing a master's degree in gastronomy from Le Cordon Bleu, where she focused on the intriguing topic of aphrodisiac foods and their relationship with wine and sex. As the leading authority on aphrodisiac foods, Amy has been featured in prestigious publications, including National Geographic, and has built a reputation for her engaging and informative approach to culinary experiences. Her website, EatSomethingSexy.com, is a treasure trove of insights into aphrodisiac foods, sexual health, and the art of creating memorable dining experiences. Amy's unique perspective combines her expertise in nutrition and gastronomy with her passion for wine, making her a sought-after speaker and writer on the romantic aspects of food and drink. Whether discussing the historical ties between wine and ancient gods or sharing tips for creating the perfect romantic meal, Amy captivates her audience with her knowledge and enthusiasm. Contact Amy Reiley here:

• Website: https://www.eatsomethingsexy.com/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/forkmespoonme/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NaturalAphrodisiacs/
• X: https://twitter.com/EatSomethngSexy