Wine Guide with Cork & Fizz - Wine education for beginners and enthusiasts

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 marketing
  
  
  

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

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!

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

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!

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

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
  
  
• The unique climate and geography that make New Zealand wines so distinctive

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

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!

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

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!

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

Ep 121

What if the magic in your glass could be traced step by step from vineyard to bottle?

In this episode, I’m giving you a beginner-friendly journey through the winemaking process. From planting the vines to harvesting grapes, you’ll learn the essential factors that shape wine long before it reaches your glass. You’ll also hear how grapevines grow and ripen each season from bud break to flowering to véraison before they’re finally ready for harvest.

Once the grapes are picked we’ll move into the winery, breaking down the steps of sorting, crushing, pressing, and fermentation. Along the way, you’ll learn the meaning behind common wine terms like “must,” “maceration,” and “lees,” explained in plain English so you feel more confident next time you hear them at a tasting.

We’ll also explore the differences between red, white, rosé, orange, and sparkling wines, plus how fermentation vessels like stainless steel, oak, and even clay amphora impact flavor and texture. And since the wine bottle also makes a difference, you’ll learn about the role of aging, bottling choices (including corks vs. screw caps), and how those final decisions influence the wine in your glass.

So, whether you’re new to wine or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode will give you a clear, approachable overview of how grapes transform into the wines you love!

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.)

Resources:

All about Sparkling Wine - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-44

What is an Orange Wine - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-18

Episode Highlights:

• Going back to basics: How is wine actually made
• The vineyard decisions that shape grape quality: climate, soil, and grape variety
• Key stages in the grape growing cycle: bud break, flowering, véraison, harvest
• Sorting, crushing, and pressing: what really happens to the grapes
• Fermentation made simple with a fun Pac-Man analogy
• The difference between natural and cultured yeasts
• Winemaking jargon decoded: must, maceration, lees, malolactic fermentation
• Style breakdowns: red, white, rosé, orange, and sparkling wines
• How barrels, tanks, and amphora influence flavor and texture

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

Ep 120

What comes to mind when you hear the word “hybrid”? Probably a car you can plug in and not a grape growing on the vine! But in the world of wine, hybrid grapes are sparking some of the most important conversations about sustainability, climate change, and the future of winemaking.

In this episode, I’m diving into what hybrid grapes actually are, how they’re different from crosses, mutations, and clones, and why they’re gaining more attention than ever before. From their fascinating history in early American vineyards to their controversial banning in France, hybrids have a story that’s as complex as the wines they produce.

You’ll learn the benefits of hybrid grapes such as their natural disease resistance, ability to thrive in tough climates, and role in reducing chemical sprays alongside the challenges, including lingering market stigma and misconceptions about their flavor. 

We’ll also look at where these grapes are grown today, from the cold Midwest and Canada to Northern Europe and even Champagne, and why winemakers are experimenting with them in response to shifting climates and consumer curiosity.

Finally, I’ll share examples of hybrid grapes you can actually find and taste such as Vidal Blanc, Marquette, Norton, and Baco Noir, along with what makes them unique in the glass. 

So, if you’ve ever wondered what the future of wine might look like, this episode will show you why hybrid grapes could be leading the way.

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.)

Resources:

Embracing hybrid grapes and creating unique wine with Wisconsin winemaker Erin Rasmussen - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-10

Episode Highlights:

• What hybrid grapes are (and how they differ from crosses, mutations, and clones)
• The history of hybrid grapes in the U.S. and Europe
• Benefits of hybrids: disease resistance, climate adaptability, sustainability
• Downsides: market stigma, lower tannins, historical bans
• Where hybrids are grown today, from North America to Northern Europe and Brazil
• How climate change and consumer demand are fueling interest in hybrid grapes
• Examples of notable hybrids: Vidal Blanc, Seynal Blanc, Cayuga White, La Crosse grape, Marquette wine grape, Norton grape variety, Baco 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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

Ep 119

What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee? For this milestone episode, things look a little different and a lot more personal!

In celebration of turning 30, I’m sitting on the other side of the mic while my husband (aka “Mr. Cork & Fizz”) takes over the questions. From how this wine journey began to the lessons I’ve learned running a business, you’ll hear personal stories and reflections I’ve never talked about on the podcast.

You’ll hear how Cork & Fizz was born out of a casual wine club, the challenges of building a business without a formal background, and the pivots along the way that shaped it into what it is today. We also dig into how to host your own wine nights, from picking themes and setting the vibe to keeping guests engaged without overcomplicating the experience.

We also talk about podcasting, the behind-the-scenes planning that keeps weekly episodes flowing, and what it’s really like to show up consistently as a creator. Plus, I open up about big life updates, including a surprise announcement which ties into how I’m navigating tastings without drinking, and my hopes for balancing business and motherhood.

So, if you’re curious how a casual wine night with friends turned into a thriving wine education business and a hit podcast, this episode is full of stories and tips you won’t want to miss!

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.)

Episode Highlights:

• The story of how Cork & Fizz began during a rainy cabin weekend
  
  
  
• Tips for turning friends into wine drinkers (without pressure)
  
  
  
• Essential skills for starting a wine-related business
  
  
  
• The journey of launching and sustaining a podcast
  
  
  
• Hosting your own wine nights: themes, notes, and tips
  
  
  
• Thoughts on pregnancy, wine, and planning for maternity leave
  
  
  
• Dream wine regions still on the bucket list

• Which wine I would pick if I was on a deserted island
  
  
  

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman 

Ep 118

What if the biggest barrier to wine sustainability isn’t the farming, but the bottle itself?

In part 2 of my conversation with Daniel Rodriguez, CEO of Currently Wine Co., we dive deep into how wine packaging, labeling, and consumer education all play a role in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive wine industry. 

We explore Currently’s decision to use aluminum bottles instead of glass, not just for aesthetic appeal, but to drastically reduce the wine’s carbon footprint. Daniel breaks down why weight and distance matter in emissions, and how switching from glass to aluminum can cut the carbon footprint in half.

You’ll learn why Currently is proudly certified vegan and how they’re promoting transparency around additives, sugar content and winemaking practices. Daniel also explains why they include calorie and sugar information on their bottles, even though it’s not required, to help consumers feel more informed and empowered.

We also dig into the consumer psychology behind wine packaging and labeling, including how words like “dry” are often misunderstood. Daniel explains how they approach wine education without snobbery and how their Sauvignon Blanc was intentionally crafted to be crisp, clean, and grapefruit-free; think more Sancerre than California. Plus, you’ll hear why aluminum bottles are more approachable than cans and how they make the wine more portable and shareable.

So, if you are ready to dive into how Currently balances sustainability, quality and approachability all while creating a wine that’s meant to be enjoyed anywhere, from boats to beach to your backyard, then this episode is for you!

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.)

As a listener of this podcast, go to https://currentlywine.com/ and you will receive a 20% discount with promo code CorkandFizz20 - discount valid through 9/23/2025. Up to 3 purchases per customer.

Connect with Daniel 

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drodriguez4/

Episode Highlights:

• How aluminum bottles cut carbon emissions in half
• Why Currently is certified vegan and what that really means
• Where Currently gets their grapes from and how the wine is made
• Currently’s flavor profile and what sets it apart from CA and NZ Sauvignon Blanc
  
  

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]

Podcast production and management by Liz Chapman