Vint Wine Podcast

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko welcomes Matt Day, Head Winemaker at Klein Constantia, for a deep dive into one of South Africa’s most historic and forward-thinking wine estates. From reviving the legendary Vin de Constance, a wine once sipped by Napoleon, to pioneering terroir-driven Sauvignon Blancs in the Cape’s cool-climate vineyards, Matt shares his journey and winemaking philosophy in rich detail.Listeners will also hear about South Africa’s evolving wine landscape, how Klein Constantia balances centuries of legacy with biodynamic practices and forward-thinking viticulture, and why Sauvignon Blanc deserves more serious attention. Plus, Matt explains how a single magnum of homemade Syrah helped him land the job of a lifetime.Topics Covered:The legacy and revival of Vin de Constance, one of the world’s great historic sweet winesMatt Day’s early journey and how he became Head Winemaker at just 26The global influences shaping Klein Constantia’s Sauvignon Blanc programWhy the estate grows 65% Sauvignon Blanc and produces multiple terroir-driven bottlingsHow Klein Constantia integrates organic, biodynamic, and precision farmingThe role of predators, pests, and even tourists in vineyard managementThe estate’s 340-year anniversary and what’s next for South African fine wineBook Referenced: The Wines of South Africa by Jim Clarke - https://amzn.to/40zFEmuLink to Klein Constantia Website: https://www.kleinconstantia.com/Chapters:00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast01:06 Exploring South African Wine Regions04:27 Most Expensive Sauvignon Blanc10:09 Interview with Matt Day Begins10:54 Matt Day's Journey in Winemaking16:46 The Legacy of Klein Constantia22:31 Sustainability and Innovation at Klein Constantia27:14 Focus on Sauvignon Blanc30:41 Exploring Soil Types and Their Impact on Wine31:16 Innovative Winemaking Techniques32:32 Understanding Vineyard Blocks and Harvesting34:24 The Art of Single Vineyard Wines36:18 The Unique Vanda Constance Wine44:54 Challenges and Innovations in Winemaking53:43 Celebrating 340 Years of Winemaking55:20 Conclusion and Future OutlookThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of Five Questions on the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Matt Day, head winemaker at Klein Constantia, one of South Africa’s most historic and celebrated wine estates. Located on the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town, Klein Constantia is renowned for producing the legendary Vin de Constance, a wine once enjoyed by Napoleon Bonaparte and Jane Austen, and for elevating Sauvignon Blanc to new heights in the New World.Highlights:What makes Klein Constantia’s terroir so unique in the Constantia ValleyThe legacy and revival of Vin de Constance, South Africa’s iconic sweet wineHis inspirations from regions like Sancerre, Tokaj, Napa, and Saint-ÉmilionLandmark vintages in his winemaking journey, including 2010, 2007, 2012, and 2021What the future holds for Sauvignon Blanc and the estate’s global aspirations📌 Be sure to check out our full-length interview with Matt Day following this episode, where we go deeper into his winemaking philosophy, Klein Constantia’s historic vineyards, and the global legacy of Vin de Constance.🔗 Follow, rate, and share the show to hear more stories from the world of fine wine.Cheers! 🍷The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, we’re joined by Charlotte Read, General Manager of Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers. Charlotte shares her unique journey from growing up on a vineyard in the 1970s to leading global branding efforts for one of the world’s most exciting wine-producing countries. We explore New Zealand's enduring success with Sauvignon Blanc, the rise of Pinot Noir and Syrah, and how the country is advancing sustainability, innovation, and regional storytelling.Charlotte offers expert insight into:The evolution of the New Zealand wine industry since the 1970sMarlborough Sauvignon Blanc and its growing stylistic diversityWhy New Zealand Pinot Noir is gaining global prestigeTrends in low- and no-alcohol wines and vineyard-driven innovationSustainability leadership and the 30-year legacy of SWNZExpanding into new markets including China, South Korea, and IndiaHow New Zealand is adapting to Gen Z preferences and digital storytellingPlus, Charlotte shares highlights from the recent Pinot Noir conference and explains the national brand platform “Altogether Unique,” built on purity, innovation, and care.🎧 Whether you're a wine student, collector, or just a curious drinker, this conversation is a must-listen for understanding the past, present, and future of New Zealand wine.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast00:43 Exciting Giveaways Announcement03:59 Wine News Highlights07:06 Interview with Charlotte Reed12:06 Exploring New Zealand Wines22:58 New Zealand Wine Industry Insights26:05 Consumer-Driven Innovation26:19 Building the New Zealand Wine Story27:09 Expanding Beyond Sauvignon Blanc28:18 Pinot Noir's Rising Prominence29:10 The Impact of the Pinot Noir Conference37:32 Sustainability in New Zealand Wine40:16 Future Trends and Innovations44:42 Global Market Expansion46:41 Engaging Younger Wine Consumers50:20 Resources for Learning About New Zealand WinesLink to Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wineenthusiastsandcollectors/News Article 1: https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/07/opus-one-earns-prestigious-butterfly-mark/News article #2: https://www.foodandwine.com/champagne-rare-grape-wines-11767893📍 For more on New Zealand’s wine regions, visit:New Zealand Wine Discovery Course: https://www.nzwine.com/en/trade/learning/discovery-course/Website: https://www.nzwine.com/en/about-us/New Zealand Winegrower Magazine https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/nzwm/NZ Wine Video: https://youtu.be/WJYKfaC6n4QNZ Wine Reports & Sustainability:Annual report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/statistics-reports/nzw-annual-report/Sustainability Report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report/Roadmap to Net Zero 2050:  https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/roadmap-to-net-zero/The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of 5 Questions, we sit down with Charlotte Read, GM of Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers, the national organization representing more than 1,400 growers and wineries across the country.Charlotte shares what’s exciting her most in wine right now (spoiler: Pinot Noir by the fire), highlights underrated New Zealand wine regions like Nelson, Waiheke Island, and Gisborne, and discusses how packaging innovation could reshape the future of wine consumption. We also dive into her most memorable wine experiences from traveling across the globe, from India to Thailand—always through the lens of New Zealand’s premium winemaking identity.Whether you're a casual enthusiast or seasoned collector, this quick conversation offers a glimpse into the evolving story of New Zealand wine on the world stage.Listen in to discover:Charlotte’s current go-to wine and perfect pairingLesser-known New Zealand wine regions to exploreHow changing lifestyles are pushing wine packaging innovationWhy New Zealand wine succeeds globally—and what’s nextA story from the vineyards of India, China, and beyond👉 Subscribe for more interviews with the people shaping wine culture.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to Five Questions00:42 Meet Charlotte Read00:50 Charlotte's Role in the Wine Industry01:22 Current Wine Favorites02:12 Underrated New Zealand Wine Regions04:12 Exciting Wine Trends05:48 Memorable Wine Experiences06:52 Conclusion📍 For more on New Zealand’s wine regions, visit:New Zealand Wine Discovery Course: https://www.nzwine.com/en/trade/learning/discovery-course/Website: https://www.nzwine.com/en/about-us/New Zealand Winegrower Magazine https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/nzwm/NZ Wine Video: https://youtu.be/WJYKfaC6n4QNZ Wine Reports & Sustainability:Annual report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/media/statistics-reports/nzw-annual-report/Sustainability Report: https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report/Roadmap to Net Zero 2050:  https://www.nzwine.com/en/sustainability/roadmap-to-net-zero/Some places have unblemished sunlight, young soil or beautiful water. Others have innovation, passion for the craft or care for the land. But only one place has the purity of it all... New Zealand Wine - Altogether UniqueThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko sits down with Emily Faulconer, Head Winemaker and Technical Director at Viñedos Familia Chadwick, the acclaimed Chilean estate behind Seña and Viñedo Chadwick. Recently named one of the most influential figures in Chilean wine, Emily shares her journey from Viña Carmen to Chadwick, her vision for sustainability and biodynamics, and the challenges and rewards of crafting world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends in Puente Alto and Aconcagua.Emily and Billy also taste and discuss multiple vintages of Seña and Viñedo Chadwick, offering a rare opportunity to hear how these wines evolve over time. They cover everything from vineyard strategy and canopy management to stylistic decisions, the legacy of Eduardo Chadwick, and Chile’s growing recognition on the global fine wine stage.Topics Covered:Emily’s path to becoming Technical Director at Viñedos Familia ChadwickThe biodynamic philosophy and viticulture behind Seña and Viñedo ChadwickTasting notes and vintage comparisons (2009, 2020, 2021 Seña; 2016, 2018 Viñedo Chadwick)The legacy of Eduardo Chadwick and ties to the Mondavi familyThe Berlin Tasting and Chile’s emergence in the fine wine worldFuture goals for sustainability, terroir expression, and ageabilityFeatured Wines:Seña 2009, 2020, 2021Viñedo Chadwick 2016, 2018Chapters:00:00 Welcome to the Vent Wine Podcast01:07 4th of July Story: A Visit to Livermore06:10 News of the Week: Trebbiano Spoletino09:15 Emily Falconer's Career Journey17:32 The Transition Back to Viñedos Chadwick19:26 Overview of Viñedos Familia Chadwick's Portfolio25:49 Introduction to Vineyard Philosophy26:44 Exploring Seña: A Modern Classic29:10 Viñedos Chadwick: A Family Legacy35:03 Viticulture Techniques and Climate Adaptation40:56 Comparing Seña and Viñedos Chadwick43:55 Chilean Wines on the Global Stage49:40 Conclusion and RecommendationsSubscribe & Follow:Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop weekly.👉 vintmarketplace.com/podcastThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of 5 Questions, host Billy Galanko sits down with Emily Faulconer, Technical Director of Viñedos Familia Chadwick, with direct oversight of the iconic labels Seña and Viñedo Chadwick, two of Chile’s most iconic and ageworthy red wines. She was recently named one of Los Más Influyentes del Vino, a major annual survey of over 40 leading figures in the Chilean wine trade.Emily shares insight into Seña’s coastal vineyards, discusses the influence of Bordeaux and Burgundy on her winemaking philosophy, and reflects on standout vintages like 2018 and 2021. She also talks about her long-term vision for Seña, one centered on consistency, adaptability, and climate resilience through biodynamic viticulture.Topics covered include:Seña’s vineyard location and grape varietiesWhat makes Seña a “modern classic” in Chilean wineGlobal inspirations behind Emily’s winemaking approachStandout vintages and what made them exceptionalWhat’s ahead for Seña in the next decadeWhether you're a fan of Chilean wine, Bordeaux-style blends, or simply curious about how great wines adapt to changing climates, this is a conversation not to miss.📍 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.🍷 Learn more and shop Seña wines at vintmarketplace.com🎧 Be sure to check out the full interview with Emily on Seña and Viñedo Chadwick, to be released following this episode.The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this special 200th episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko is joined by Chris Cottrell, co-winemaker and partner at Bedrock Wine Co., to explore one of California’s most revered and dynamic producers. From Old Vine Zinfandel to heritage field blends and terroir-driven sparkling wines, Bedrock is preserving the state's viticultural legacy with thoughtful, low-intervention farming and winemaking.Chris shares his journey from wine shop stockboy in Manhattan to becoming business partners with Morgan Twain-Peterson MW. Together, they’ve built Bedrock into a standard-bearer for regenerative viticulture and old vine preservation, crafting wines from vineyards dating back to the 1880s.This episode also marks the end of an era: Brady Weller, longtime co-host and original producer of the Vint Wine Podcast, signs off for the final time. Brady reflects on his start with the show in 2021, its growth over 200 episodes, and why Bedrock is the perfect winery to feature in his final episode.🎧 In this episode:Chris Cottrell’s story and how Bedrock was bornThe origins of Under the Wire, Bedrock’s sparkling wine projectWhat “heritage wines” really mean—and why they matterWhy Bedrock is pursuing regenerative organic certificationThe diversity of Bedrock’s vineyard sites, from Sonoma to Contra Costa and LodiA breakdown of core wines like Old Vine Zinfandel, Bedrock Heritage, Evangel, and moreThe future of California wine through the lens of farming, climate resilience, and legacyBrady’s reflections on co-hosting the podcast for nearly four years🍇 Wines & Vineyards Discussed:Bedrock Vineyard Heritage Wine (Sonoma Valley, planted 1888)Evangel Vineyard (Contra Costa, 1890s own-rooted vines)Katushas’ Vineyard (Lodi, planted 1915)Old Hill Ranch, Nervo Ranch, Eschew VineyardUnder the Wire sparkling wines from Brosseau and Alder SpringsZinfandel, Carignan, Mourvèdre, and field blends of up to 29 varieties📍 Visit Bedrock Wine Co.:Taste the wines at the historic General Joseph Hooker House just off the Sonoma Plaza. Built in 1848 and tied to the origins of Bedrock Vineyard, it’s one of the most unique tasting rooms in California.🍷 Final Toast:We raise a glass again to Brady and his incredible contribution to the podcast over 200 episodes, thanks!The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

On this episode of Five Questions we’re joined by Chris Cottrell, co-owner of Bedrock Wine Co. and Under the Wire. From farming historic vineyards in Sonoma to crafting low-intervention wines rooted in California’s old vines, Chris shares the story behind Bedrock’s mission, the vintages that shaped his career, and the global regions that inspire their wines.Topics Covered:• Bedrock’s vineyards in Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Lodi—many planted in the late 1800s• Why preserving old vines is at the core of their philosophy• Inspirations from Champagne, the Northern Rhône, Corsica, Portugal, and more• Memorable vintages including 2008, 2012, 2020, and the 2023 “Vaquita Vintage”• Bedrock’s roadmap: regenerative farming, mentorship, and elevating the wider wine communityWhether you’re a longtime fan or new to Bedrock, this is a behind-the-scenes look at one of California’s most respected and thoughtful producers.🎧 Listen now and follow the Vint Wine Podcast for more conversations from the world of wine including a full-length interview with Chris Cottrell.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast00:19 Meet Chris Cuttrell00:26 Vineyards and Varieties01:53 About Bedrock Wine Company04:33 Inspirations Beyond California05:55 Memorable Vintages09:16 Future Roadmap for Bedrock11:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, host Billy Galanko sits down with wine writer, speaker, and cultural commentator Chasity Cooper, named one of Wine Enthusiast’s 40 Under 40 Tastemakers, for a wide-ranging conversation about how she’s changing the way people talk about and engage with wine.Chasity shares how a study abroad trip to Madrid sparked her passion for wine, and how her background in journalism and nonprofit communications led her to carve a path in wine media. From early Instagram posts to bylines in VinePair and Wine Enthusiast, she explains what it took to break into a space that’s often viewed as exclusive and intimidating.They discuss her book The Wine Convo Generator a playful guide designed to give readers the vocabulary and confidence to talk about wine, as well as her mission to make wine culture more accessible, inclusive, and connected to everyday life.Topics include:Why wine is ultimately about culture, context, and connectionHer favorite wine bars in Chicago and approach to recommending wines for any budgetThe impact of social media on wine language, education, and identityThoughts on celebrity wines, non-alcoholic alternatives, and emerging U.S. wine regionsPairing wine with everyday foods—from hot dogs to Harold’s ChickenWhether you're a seasoned wine collector or someone who's just getting started, this conversation is full of insight, humor, and heart.Resources & Mentions:The Wine Convo Generator by Chasity CooperChasity’s website: chasitycooper.comThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!

In this episode of Five Questions, we’re joined by Chasity Cooper, a journalist, storyteller, and passionate voice in the wine industry. Chasity shares how she blends her love of writing with a deep appreciation for wine, bringing underrepresented voices and regions to the forefront of wine conversation.From the Finger Lakes to Traverse City, crisp white blends to dry Riesling, Chasity walks us through what she's drinking, what regions are worth your attention, and why jalapeños in Sauvignon Blanc may be helping new drinkers learn more about wine. She also opens up about travels to Bulgaria and a powerful story she wrote in the wake of the George Floyd tragedy, spotlighting the experiences and contributions of Black wine professionals.Topics covered:– How Chasity found her voice in wine media– What she’s drinking this summer (hint: it’s bright and zippy)– Two U.S. wine regions she says are flying under the radar– Jalapeño wine trends– Her most powerful wine writing experience—covering race and representation in the industry during the summer of 2020Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Vent Wine Podcast00:19 Five Questions with Chastity Cooper00:27 Chastity's Relationship with Wine01:12 Current Wine Preferences01:55 Underrated Wine Regions03:07 Wine Trends Chastity Dislikes04:14 Memorable Wine Experiences05:31 Impactful Wine Stories07:20 Conclusion and ThanksThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!