Ep 131

What happens when a winemaker challenges tradition, one barrel at a time?

In this second part of my interview with South African winemaker Duncan Savage, he shares how he transformed his approach from crafting white wines at Cape Point Vineyards to creating expressive, terroir-driven reds under his own label. He shares how his time crafting white wines at Cape Point Vineyards shaped the philosophy he now brings to his expressive, terroir-driven reds under his own label.

Duncan also takes us inside the evolution of South African winemaking. From shifting away from standardized Sauvignon Blanc styles to embracing authenticity, restraint, and place-driven wines that tell their own story. If you’ve ever wondered what makes the new wave of South African wines so distinctive, this episode offers a glimpse into that transformation.

If you’ve curious how passion, patience, and a little rebellion can reshape an entire wine region, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

And don’t forget to go back to episode 130 and listen to the first part of my conversation with Duncan!

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!
• VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!
• Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35!

Connect with Duncan:

Website - https://broadbent.com/producers/savage-wines/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/savagewines/

Episode Highlights:

• Transitioning from white to red winemaking
  
  
• Shifting South African Sauvignon Blanc beyond the “Kiwi” style
  
  
• How barrel fermentation and oxidative techniques changed his perspective
  
  
• Why Duncan applies a “white wine approach” to red wines
  
  
• The importance of patience and texture in the winemaking process
  
  
• Redefining what “authentic South African wine” means today

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 130

You may have heard of Napa and Bordeaux…but the next great wine region might just surprise you. Welcome to South Africa!

In this episode, winemaker Duncan Savage joins from Cape Town to share his journey from head winemaker at Cape Point Vineyards to founder of Savage Wines, one of the most exciting and celebrated names in South Africa’s new wave movement.

Duncan’s story is filled with humility, humor, and hard-won insight from falling in love with wine by accident to building a small but mighty urban winery in Cape Town’s Salt River district. You’ll hear how South Africa’s vineyards are shaped by wind, ocean, and innovation and why the region’s wines are finally getting the global recognition they deserve.

He also breaks down why most South African producers lease rather than own their vineyards, how climate change is shifting harvests, and why collaboration, rather than competition, is fueling the country’s wine renaissance.

If you’ve ever been curious about South African wine or wondered what makes these coastal wines so distinct, you’ll love this episode that dives into the stories, landscapes, and philosophies shaping one of the world’s most exciting wine regions.

Don’t miss part 2 of my conversation with Duncan next week - episode 131!

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!

Connect with Duncan:

Website - https://broadbent.com/producers/savage-wines/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/savagewines/

Episode Highlights:

• Duncan’s path from Cape Point Vineyards to founding Savage Wines
  
  
• How South Africa’s coastal climate shapes flavor and freshness
  
  
• The “new wave” winemakers redefining South African wine
  
  
• Why most vineyards are leased, not owned
  
  
• The evolution of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage styles
  
  
• Collaboration over competition in South Africa’s wine scene
  
  
• Climate change and the country’s surprising advantage

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 129

Washington may be known for its big-name wineries, but some of the best bottles are coming from the small, family-run spots you’ve never heard of.

In this episode, we’re exploring four boutique wineries that capture the creativity and community behind Washington wine. Discover how a chef’s background in flavor inspires the balanced, aromatic wines at Kinhaven Winery. Learn how Cedergreen Cellars pivoted from restaurant-only sales to a hands-on tasting experience, offering beautifully aged wines that deliver incredible value.

We’ll also explore the organic vineyards and uncommon grapes defining Grosgrain Vineyards, then visit Ducleaux Cellars, where a husband-and-wife team turns personal stories into heartfelt blends. Plus, stay tuned for a few honorable mentions that deserve a spot on your next tasting itinerary.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Walla Walla getaway or just want new favorite bottles to ship straight to your door, this episode will help you uncover the hidden gems of Washington wine country.

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!

Resources:

• Kinhaven Winery - https://kinhavenwinery.com/
• Cedergreen Cellars - https://www.cedergreencellars.com/
• Grosgrain Vineyards - https://grosgrainvineyards.com/
• Ducleaux Cellars - https://www.ducleauxcellars.com/
• Sama Cellars - https://samacellars.com/
• Lushington Wines - https://lushingtonwines.com/
• Michael Florentino Cellars - https://michaelflorentinocellars.com/

Episode Highlights:

• The chef-inspired winemaking behind Kinhaven Winery
• Affordable aged wines and hidden value at Cedergreen Cellars
• Uncommon grapes and organic farming at Grosgrain Vineyards
• The heartfelt blends and family story of Ducleaux Cellars
• Quick shoutouts to Sama Sellers, Lushington Wines, and Michael Florentino

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 128

Would you believe that one of the world’s favorite red wines comes from one of the most temperamental grapes on earth?

Today’s episode is a fan request and we’re taking a deep dive into Pinot Noir! This grape is known for being both a challenge to grow but also how it reflects where it’s grown. We’ll talk about where Pinot Noir got its start and how it’s now grown everywhere from Burgundy to Oregon. You'll discover why Pinot Noir is called the “heartbreak grape” and why winemakers everywhere continue to chase its perfection.

We’ll explore the grape’s history, how it’s genetically linked to other famous varieties, what makes it thrive in cooler climates, and the major regions producing outstanding Pinot Noir today. You’ll also learn how oak, fermentation styles, and even your glass shape can change what you taste. 

So, whether you’re a red wine enthusiast or just starting your wine journey, this episode will deepen your appreciation for one of wine’s most captivating grapes.

Don’t miss out on the other deep dives I’ve done on the following grapes - Chardonnay (Ep 6), Cabernet Franc (Ep 14), Chenin Blanc (Ep 21), Riesling (Ep 38), Barbera (Ep 45), Merlot (Ep 57), Sauvignon Blanc (Ep 104)

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!

Episode Highlights:

• The surprising history of Pinot Noir
• Why it’s called the “heartbreak grape”
• How terroir shapes Pinot Noir’s flavor
• Clones, mutations, and grape family ties
• Key Pinot Noir regions in Burgundy
• Oregon vs. California Pinot Noir styles
• Pinot Noir from Germany to New Zealand
• Pinot Noir’s role in Champagne
• Oak aging and whole-cluster fermentation
• Serving and aging tips for Pinot Noir
• Go-to food pairings for Pinot Noir

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 127

What if the future of wine wasn’t about choosing between tradition and technology, but finding a way to let both thrive together?

In this episode, you’ll hear from John Tan, founder of CorkVision, an AI-powered copilot for wineries. After years in the tech world, John found himself in Napa Valley, blending his expertise with a deep passion for wine. The result? A platform designed to help wineries sell smarter, protect tradition, and connect more personally with customers.

John shares how wineries are responding to AI, why data matters more than ever, and how technology can actually preserve, rather than replace, the artistry of winemaking. He also explains how AI can help wineries adapt to challenges like climate change while keeping human creativity at the heart of every bottle.

So, if you’re curious about how tradition and technology can work together in the wine world and want to hear how AI may shape the future of winemaking without losing its artistry, this episode is for you.

And don’t miss part 1 of my episode with John where we talk about his journey from tech to wine and explore how AI is transforming customer experiences and winery operations.

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!
• BonChocolats: Go to bonchocolats.com to order some delicious artisan chocolate (that actually pairs well with wine)!

Connect with John

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntan/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/corkvision

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runfatboyrun7/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cork.vision/

Website: https://www.corkvision.com/

Resources: 

Txakoli: Exploring Spain’s Basque Country Signature Wine

Episode Highlights:

• Why AI is a tool to support, not replace, winemakers
  
  
• How wineries can use AI for climate change planning and long-term vineyard health
  
  
• The balance between science, tradition, and artistry in wine
• Data privacy concerns (and why org-wide policies matter to prevent accidental leakage)
• Common hesitations wineries have about AI (privacy, cost, and job security)
  
  
• How CorkVision helps small family wineries stay competitive
  
  
• The role of data quality in building meaningful customer relationships
  
  
• The future of wine personalization: recognizing guests, tailored offers, and smarter mark

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 126

Can artificial intelligence (AI) really change the way you enjoy wine?

In this episode, you’ll meet John Tan, founder of CorkVision, an AI-powered platform designed to help wineries sell smarter, connect with customers, and streamline operations. John’s story takes us from high-powered client dinners in New York to an unplanned move to Napa Valley after a fateful night of wine tasting and, eventually, to harvest work that reshaped his perspective on wine.

You’ll hear how his background in tech inspired CorkVision, where “Corky,” an AI assistant, helps wineries anticipate customer needs, personalize experiences, and manage data more effectively. From streamlining inventory to curating memorable guest tastings, John explains how AI is making life easier for small wineries and enhancing the experience for wine lovers everywhere.

Whether you’re curious about how AI is changing industries, love behind-the-scenes winery stories, or simply want to know what technology means for your next glass of wine, this episode will give you a new perspective on the intersection of tradition and innovation.

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!
• BonChocolats: Go to bonchocolats.com to order some delicious artisan chocolate (that actually pairs well with wine)!

Connect with John

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntan/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/corkvision

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runfatboyrun7/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cork.vision/

Website: https://www.corkvision.com/

Episode Highlights:

• John’s journey from New York tech founder to Napa Valley harvest hand
  
  
• The story of nearly signing a lease in Napa sight unseen after a night of wine tasting
  
  
• Why small, direct-to-consumer wineries face unique challenges in sales and data management
  
  
• How CorkVision and “Corky” help wineries personalize the guest experience
  
  
• Real-world examples of AI-driven solutions for wineries and wine lovers
  
  
• The importance of balancing technology with the human side of hospitality

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 125

What if the secret to understanding wine wasn’t memorizing grapes or regions but unlocking just three key components?

In this episode, I’m breaking down the building blocks that shape every glass of wine: tannin, acidity, and body. By learning how to identify these elements, you’ll not only know what you like (and don’t like), but also have the words to describe it with confidence.

You’ll discover why tannins create that dry “cotton ball” feeling in your mouth, how acidity makes your mouth water, and why body is the foundation for food pairings. Along the way, you’ll get simple tasting tricks like the “chipmunk test” for tannin and the “drool test” for acidity, plus everyday comparisons (think milk or almond milk) that make wine structure easy to understand.

So, whether you’re brand new to wine or looking to sharpen your wine confidence, tune in to this episode and discover these three essentials that will help you better understand your next glass of wine.

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Wine.com: Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)
• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!
• BonChocolats: Go to bonchocolats.com to order some delicious artisan chocolate (that actually pairs well with wine)!

Episode Highlights:

• Learn what tannins are and how they create that drying “cotton ball” feeling
  
  
• Discover how foods like cheese soften tannins in wine
  
  
• Understand the difference between “dry wine” and tactile dryness
  
  
• Explore the role of acidity in wine balance and aging potential
  
  
• Find out how malolactic fermentation adds buttery flavors
  
  
• Try the “chipmunk test” to identify tannins in red wine
  
  
• Use the “drool test” to measure acidity in your glass
  
  
• Match wine body with food intensity for better pairings
• Compare wine body using everyday references like milk or almond milk

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 124

Did you know there’s more to New Zealand wine than just Sauvignon Blanc?

In this episode, we explore the world of New Zealand wine beyond its iconic Sauvignon Blanc. While Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough may have put New Zealand on the map, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered. From Chardonnay and Pinot Gris to Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Bordeaux-style blends, the country produces an incredible range of wines that deserve a place on your table.

We’ll learn a little bit about New Zealand’s wine history, as well as why Sauvignon Blanc became the nation’s global calling card, and explore the regions shaping the future of its winemaking. From the innovative Chardonnay of Hawke’s Bay to the aromatic whites of Nelson and the elegant Pinot Noir of Central Otago, this episode uncovers the hidden gems that rarely leave the country but absolutely should.

You’ll also discover tips for finding these wines outside of New Zealand and how asking your local shop can make a real difference in what’s available. So, if you’re curious about the wines New Zealand has to offer beyond Sauvignon Blanc and want fresh ideas for what to look for at your local shop, this episode is for you.

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Wine.com: Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)
• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!
• BonChocolats: Go to bonchocolats.com to order some delicious artisan chocolate (that actually pairs well with wine)!

Resources: 

• New Zealand Wine Map: https://winefolly.com/images/wine-regions/newzealand/hero-newzealand-map.jpg 
• Discover the Wines of New Zealand: A Beginner's Guide
• https://www.falstaff.com/en/news/more-than-sauvignon-blanc-new-zealands-new-wine-culture
• https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/drinks/new-wave-new-zealand-wines/
• https://www.nzwine.com/ 

Episode Highlights:

• How New Zealand’s wine industry overcame early obstacles to flourish
  
  
• Why Sauvignon Blanc became the country’s signature grape
  
  
• Key wine regions of New Zealand and their specialties
  
  
• Hidden gems to watch for: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Bordeaux blends
  
  
• Wineries that export to the U.S. and Canada and how to ask for them at your local shop
  
  

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 123

Did you know Germany made top of the line Sparkling wine?

In this episode, I’m diving back in with importer and winemaker Lisa Tupetz to explore the side of German wine most people never hear about. We’re talking about Sekt, Germany’s sparkling wine, and how to tell if you’ve grabbed the real deal made in the traditional Champagne method. You’ll also hear about Elbling, an ancient grape variety that nearly disappeared, and why it should be on your radar the next time you’re wine shopping.

Lisa shares her top bottle picks if you’re curious to try German wines for yourself, plus the story of how she managed to get her wines on the prestigious French Laundry list (spoiler: it’s pretty incredible). She also shares the story of a non-alcoholic sparkling wine that won over sommeliers at The French Laundry, showing just how innovative German winemaking can be. We’ll also chat about her wine club and a brand-new importer collective that’s helping small producers reach more drinkers here in the U.S.

So if you’ve ever wondered how to branch out from Riesling or want to discover wines you won’t find at your local shop, this episode is full of ideas to get you started.

And if you are ready to try some wines from Tupetz Wine Collection you can do so here and save 15% with the code CORKFIZZ15.

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

This is part 2 of my conversation with Lisa so if you missed part one be sure to go back and listen in!

Resources: Klassische Flaschengärung is the term that Lisa said meant “bottle fermented”

Connect with Lisa

Website - www.tupetzwine.com 

Instagram - @tupetzwine

Episode Highlights:

• What makes German sparkling wine (Sekt) unique and how to identify quality bottles.
  
  
• Elbling: the ancient grape making a modern comeback.
  
  
• Three recommended bottles to try if you’re new to German imports.
  
  
• Behind the scenes of Lisa’s wine club
  
  
• How these wines ended up on the French Laundry’s prestigious list.
• The surprising story of a non-alcoholic sparkling wine that won over sommeliers at The French Laundry.
  
  
• The Small Poppies Wine Collective and its mission to support small importers.
  
  
• Common wine myths that bug Lisa

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]

Ep 122

What if everything you thought about German wine was only half the story?

Today I am joined by Lisa Tupetz who is sharing her journey to becoming a winemaker and importer who turned a chance trip to New Zealand into a lifelong passion for wine. From vineyard work to building her own import company, she shares how curiosity, setbacks, and perseverance shaped her career.

We dive into what it really takes to bring wine from Germany to your glass in the U.S.- from regulations and shipping hurdles to tariffs and labeling laws. You’ll also learn why not all German wines are sweet Rieslings and how the country produces everything from world-class Pinot Noir to sparkling wines made in the traditional Champagne method.

Our conversation also dives into sustainability, the truth behind “organic” and “natural” wine labels, and why asking the right questions about what’s in your glass matters.

Lisa Tupetz is a winemaker, distributor, and the founder of Tupetz Wine Connection. Raised in Germany and educated in Enology and Viticulture at the Geisenheim University, Lisa moved to San Luis Obispo, CA in 2018 to make wine. After suffering a work injury in 2020 which made her take a break from winemaking, Lisa craved the taste of home. At the same time, the future of wine distribution within Germany, which relies on outdoor festivals and big social gatherings, was quite uncertain due to Covid. Through mutual necessity, years of friendship, and dedication, TWC was born.

You won’t want to miss this behind-the-scenes journey of German wine, from family vineyards to your table, and why it’s more complex (and fascinating) than you may think.

And if you are ready to try some wines from Tupetz Wine Collection you can do so here and save 15% with the code CORKFIZZ15.

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Connect with Lisa

Website - www.tupetzwine.com 

Instagram - @tupetzwine

Episode Highlights:

• How a trip to New Zealand led to an unexpected career in wine
• What it’s like to start a German wine import company in California
• The complex process of importing wine to the U.S.
• Why German wine is far more than just sweet Riesling
• Sustainability, organic certifications, and natural wine explained
• The importance of relationships with winemakers and their families

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]