Ep 137

If you're ready to feel more confident about wine but have no idea where to start, this episode breaks the entire process down into five simple steps.

You’ll learn my simple five step framework that makes learning about wine feel doable and not overwhelming. From building a consistent tasting habit to knowing which basics actually matter, this roadmap gives you an easy way to try new wines with more intention and a lot less second-guessing.

You’ll also hear practical ideas for comparison tastings, finding the right books and classes, what to do at your local wine shop, and how to experiment with friends without making it complicated. And if you’re setting wine goals (yes, that’s a thing), this episode will help you choose ones you’ll actually stick with.

So, if you’re ready to feel more confident about what’s in your glass, this is where your wine journey really begins!

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!
• Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!

Resources: 

My 4-Step Wine Tasting Method - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-1

How to Start Your Own Wine Club Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p35/diy-wine-tasting-club-downloadable-kit.html

Garden Party Done-For-You Wine Tasting Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p46/garden-party-dfy-wine-tasting-party-kit.html

Wine & Cheese Pairing Done-For-You Tasting Party Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p45/wine-and-cheese-dfy-tasting-party-kit.html

Episode Highlights:

• How to build a consistent wine habit
  
  
• Creating a simple rating system for every bottle
  
  
• Trying one new wine each month or week
  
  
• Why becoming a regular at a local wine shop matters
  
  
• Tools and apps that help track what you taste
  
  
• The core wine basics every beginner should learn
  
  
• Recommended books, podcasts, and classes
  
  
• The four step tasting method and where to learn it
  
  
• How to explore new wines with intention
  
  
• Doing comparison tastings at home
  
  
• Tools that keep wine fresh longer
  
  
• Hosting casual wine nights with friends
  
  
• Easy wine goals to set 

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Support the show

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 136

Staring at a wall of wine and wishing someone would just hand you a curated list of bottles actually worth drinking?

In this episode I’m sharing my 12 standout wines from 2025 in honor of the 12 days of Christmas. Wines from Washington Chardonnay to Idaho Mourvedre to canned Albariño, Soave from Italy, and a wild, nutty Vin Jaune from France. You’ll hear why each bottle earned a spot on the list, how it tastes, and the stories and memories tied to each one, including travel moments, family visits, and retreat highlights.

You’ll also learn why mixed oak and stainless aging affects Chardonnay, why Soave is such a reliable go-to at the grocery store, what makes orange wine and Pet Nat so distinctive, and how to think about “funky” wines like Vin Jaune or Condrieu without feeling intimidated. 

So, whether you’re hunting for a weeknight bottle, a Trader Joe’s steal, or something special to share with friends, this episode is a ready-made shopping list for any wine drinker!

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!
• Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!

Wines Mentioned in this Episode:

1. Kinhaven 2023 Chardonnay
2. 2020 Siegloch Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)
3. 2021 Telaya Wine Co. Mourvèdre
4. Maker Wine Albariño (Camins 2 Dreams)
5. Clos du Gravillas 2020 À Fleur de Peau Vin Blanc de Maceration
6. Casaponte Soave Classico
7. Cecilia Beretta Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore
8. Domaine Baud Generation 9 Chateau Chalon
9. 2023 Pieropan Soave Clasico
10. 2024 Grosgrain Sémillon Pet Nat
11. 2021 Yves Cuilleron La Petite Cote Condrieu
12. Raventos i Blanc | Blanc de Blancs 2021

Resources:

Ep 40 - What Sets Camins 2 Dreams Apart From Other Wineries

Ep 68 - A Family Legacy with Spanish Winemaker Pepe Raventos

Ep 69 - Exploring Spanish Sparkling Wine with Pepe Raventos: Breaking Away From Cava

Ep 122 - Why German Wine Goes Beyond Sweet Riesling with Lisa Tupetz

Ep 123 - Sekt: Germany’s Sparkling Wine You Need to Know with Lisa Tupetz

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Support the show

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 135

What if the easiest way to pick better wine has been sitting on the bottle this whole time?

Learning how to read a wine label doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In my conversation with Marie, she breaks down her approachable, beginner-friendly system that she teaches in her new book “How to Read a Wine Label.” It’s a method built around three core concepts that can help anyone predict how a wine will taste before ever pulling the cork. She explains how to spot Old World vs. New World styles, how climate affects flavor, and why grape skin thickness matters more than you think.

You’ll also hear why she intentionally kept the book short, what she chose to leave out (and why), and how she hopes this knowledge empowers people to move beyond choosing wine by the “cute label.” This episode is full of simple, repeatable tips that make wine shopping far less intimidating, so that the next time you are staring at a wall of wine, you’ll actually know what you are looking for.

And if you missed last week’s episode, go back and listen to part 1 of my chat with Marie. 

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!
• Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!
• Last Bottle: Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)

Connect with Marie

• Instagram - @slikwines
• Marie’s Book - How to Read a Wine Label
• Website - https://www.slikwines.com/

Episode Highlights:

• Why so many people choose wine based on the label
  
  
• The three concepts that instantly help you predict taste (Old World vs. New World, climate, grape skin thickness)
  
  
• How to spot meaningful info on a label vs. marketing tactics
  
  
• Why the book focuses only on what beginners actually need
  
  
• How repeated core concepts build confidence when shopping for wine
  
  
• What Marie hopes to change about the way people choose wine bottles
  
  
• Why aged wines aren’t automatically “better”

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Support the show

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 134

What if blind tasting isn’t actually about guessing the wine at all but about learning to trust your palate?

In this conversation, author, sommelier, and content creator Marie Cheslik shares an unfiltered look at blind tasting, wine education, and the confidence-building process behind learning what you like. She explains the original purpose of blind tasting, why it’s rooted in regional typicity, and how she now uses the same framework to help everyday drinkers feel less intimidated and more empowered.

You’ll hear Marie talk about the tension between subjective tasting and objective correctness, why some tasting notes really are more “right” than others, and how comparing wines side-by-side teaches people far more than memorizing facts ever will. She also opens up about balancing a creative business with the stability of her nursing career, the myth of “going all in,” and the hard lesson she learned about time investment not guaranteeing growth.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about how to describe wine, confused about what you’re “supposed” to taste, or intimidated by blind tasting, tune into this episode where you’ll get the  clarity, context, and permission you’ve been hoping for!

And don’t miss next week's episode which is part 2 of my chat with Marie where we dig into her book How to Read a Wine Label. 

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 Marie

Instagram - @slikwines

Marie’s Book - How to Read a Wine Label

Website - https://www.slikwines.com/

Episode Highlights:

• How Marie discovered wine through restaurant work
  
  
• Starting Slick Wines during Covid and growing through virtual events
  
  
• Why she still works as a registered nurse
  
  
• The myth of “going all in” on your business
  
  
• What blind tasting is actually designed to teach
  
  
• Understanding typicity and classic wine markers
  
  
• The balance between subjective and objective tasting notes
  
  
• Using side-by-side tastings to build confidence
  
  
• Old World vs New World Chardonnay flavor differences
  
  
• Why storytelling connects better than soil talk
  
  

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Support the show

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 133

What if one of wine’s most recognizable symbols, the oak barrel, was never meant to be used for aging wine at all?

In this episode, we’re diving into the history and science of oak in winemaking. From the Roman Empire’s accidental discovery of oak barrels to how modern winemakers use them intentionally today, you’ll learn why oak has become one of the most powerful tools for shaping a wine’s flavor, texture, and aroma.

We’ll break down what really happens inside the barrel, from how oxygen softens tannins to the compounds that add notes of vanilla, spice, and caramel. You’ll also discover the truth behind that “buttery” flavor in Chardonnay and why it’s not actually coming from the oak itself.

Finally, we’ll explore the different types of oak used around the world, what makes French, American, and Hungarian barrels unique, and the rise of sustainable alternatives like oak chips and staves. 

If you’ve ever wondered how oak barrels influence what’s in your glass or what winemakers mean when they say a wine was “oaked”, this episode is for you!

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!

Episode Highlights:

• How oak barrels were first used by the Romans
  
  
• The key reasons winemakers choose oak today: flavor, texture, and fermentation environment
  
  
• The truth about “buttery” wines and malolactic fermentation
  
  
• The process of crafting an oak barrel, from staves to toasting
  
  
• Differences between French, American, and Hungarian oak
  
  
• Cost and sustainability factors in oak barrel use
  
  
• Why new vs. old oak matters for flavor
  
  
• Oak alternatives: chips, cubes, and staves
  
  
• The meaning of “the angel’s share” in winemaking
  
  
• How winemakers balance tradition with innovation

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Support the show

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 132

Do you ever feel lost when people start throwing around fancy wine terms like “tannin” or “terroir”? You’re not alone.

In this episode, we’re going back to the basics with 15 essential wine words that will instantly boost your confidence when talking about wine. You’ll learn how to describe what you’re tasting, from acidity to body, and finally understand what those mysterious words like “minerality,” “dry,” and “complex” actually mean.

This is your chance to learn how to speak like a sommelier (aka a wine expert!)

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to describe what’s in your glass or want to understand what others mean when they talk about wine, this episode is the perfect place to start.

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!

Resources:

• What makes wine taste the way it does? Tannin, acidity and body - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-125
• The light, crisp French white wine you’re missing out on - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-75

Episode Highlights:

• The difference between “variety” and “varietal” (and why even experts mix them up)
  
  
• What a “vintage” really tells you about your wine
  
  
• How to identify acidity, body, tannin, and finish
  
  
• Why “dry” doesn’t always mean what you think it does
  
  
• Understanding terroir and minerality
  
  
• How to use words like “crisp,” “complex,” and “silky” to describe wine
  
  
• What “Lees,” “Brett,” and “mouthfeel” actually mean
  
  
• The truth about when a wine is “tight” or “closed off”
  
  
• How to tell if your wine is ready to drink or needs time to open up
  
  

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Support the show

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 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!

Support the show

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!

Support the show

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!

Support the show

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!

Support the show

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]