Vint Wine Podcast

In this episode of the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Marc Hochar of Château Musar, Lebanon’s most storied and singular winery. Known for its age-worthy and distinctiver wines grown in the Bekaa Valley, Musar has long stood apart in the global wine conversation.Marc shares the deep family history behind the estate, founded in 1930 by his grandfather Gaston Hochar, and offers insight into their winemaking philosophy marked by native fermentation, dry farming, bush-trained vines, and a reverence for vintage variation. We dive into the indigenous white grapes Obaideh and Merwah, explore the unique aging arcs of Musar’s red wines, and discuss how Musar continues to captivate collectors, sommeliers, and wine lovers across generations.You’ll also hear stories of emotional tastings, Musar’s adaptability to climate change, and what makes these wines so “alive” in both bottle and spirit.Episode Highlights:The foundational story of Château Musar and its post-WWI originsThe winemaking philosophy of Serge Hochar and its ongoing legacyNative Lebanese varieties and the distinctiveness of Bekaa Valley terroirWhy Musar wines evolve from Bordeaux-like structure to Burgundy-like eleganceThe magic of aged Musar whites and the surprise of the Château’s roséGlobal perspectives, market education, and Musar’s reception in new regionsHow global warming is shaping future vineyard and varietal choicesWhether you're new to Musar or a longtime devotee, this is an essential conversation about one of the wine world’s most fascinating and soulful estates.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Vent Wine Podcast00:22 Special Guest: Mark Char of Chateau Mussar00:54 Wine News: German VDP Wines02:58 Wine News: Tablas Creek's Historic Achievement04:37 Interview with Mark Char: Chateau Mussar's History12:17 Chateau Mussar's Unique Terroir and Winemaking15:38 Challenges and Philosophy in Winemaking24:37 Fermentation Techniques and Practices25:48 History and Varietals of Chateau Mussar Reds27:39 Blending Philosophy and Techniques32:45 Unique Characteristics of Chateau Mussar Whites43:02 Introduction to Chateau Mussar Rosé47:19 Adapting to Global Warming49:45 Challenges and Identity of Chateau Mussar50:05 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 Five Questions, we sit down with Marc Hochar of Château Musar, Lebanon’s most iconic winery. He shares the story behind their high-altitude vineyards in the Bekaa Valley, the use of both indigenous and French varieties like Obaideh, Merwah, Cinsaut, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and why their wines are built to evolve over decades. We also explore the philosophy behind Musar’s age-worthy reds, and the importance of time in unlocking their character.Marc reflects on standout vintages such as 1998 and 1983, what inspires him outside Lebanon, and the emotional connection that shapes how he experiences wine. He also looks ahead to the next generation of the Hochar family, as they prepare to carry on the estate’s singular legacy.Episode Highlights:• Château Musar’s high-altitude vineyards in the Bekaa Valley• French and indigenous grapes: Cinsaut, Cabernet Sauvignon, Obaideh, Merwah• How time and evolution define Musar’s wines• Why 1998 and 1983 are standout vintages• The future of Musar under the next Hochar generation🎧 Listen now and discover what makes Château Musar one of the wine world’s true originals.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast00:19 Five Questions with Mark Hoja00:52 Mark Hoja's Vineyards and Varieties01:27 The Essence of Chateau Musar Wines02:23 Inspirations Beyond Lebanon03:33 Memorable Vintages05:03 Current Market Recommendations06:13 Future of Chateau Musar06:55 ConclusionThe 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 Cornelius Dönnhoff, one of Germany’s most respected winemakers and the current steward of the iconic Weingut Dönnhoff in the Nahe. Known globally for crafting some of the world’s most expressive Rieslings, Cornelius shares insight into the estate’s 250-year history, its transition into a world-class winery under his father in the 1970s, and his own philosophy rooted in precision, restraint, and deep site expression.The conversation dives into the nuances of Nahe terroir, how it differs from the Mosel and Rheingau, and why the region’s diverse soils make it a playground for single-vineyard Riesling. Cornelius also explains how each site finds its identity—whether destined for Kabinett, Grosses Gewächs, or Spätlese—and why minimal intervention in the cellar allows nature to speak through the wine.From the complexities of managing 32 hectares across 10 unique sites to the unpredictability of frost, rot, and climate change, this is an essential episode for lovers of Riesling, German wine, and vineyard-first winemaking.🍇 Topics Covered:The evolution of the Dönnhoff estate from a family farm to a benchmark producerWhat makes the Nahe region distinct from Mosel and RheingauSoil diversity across Dönnhoff’s single vineyards (including Hermannshöhle, Brücke, and Felsenberg)How vineyard character determines whether a wine will be dry or off-dryTraditional winemaking at Dönnhoff, from spontaneous fermentation to large German oak casksThe emotional, intuitive side of winegrowing and why taste—not tech—drives decisionsHistorical vineyard names and stories, like “Höllenpfad” (Path to Hell) and “Kahlenberg”Responding to changing climate conditions while preserving balance and eleganceChapters:00:00 Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast00:23 Exciting Interview with Cornelius Dönnhoff00:41 Weekly Wine News Highlights01:00 Deep Dive: French vs. American Oak in Wine02:45 Exploring the 2022 Oregon Vintage03:41 Interview Introduction: Cornelius Dönnhoff04:05 Cornelius Donoff on German Riesling06:21 The Donoff Family Legacy09:27 Challenges and Triumphs in Winemaking12:03 The Unique Terroir of the Nahe Region16:21 Balancing Tradition and Modern Winemaking22:39 Climate Challenges and Vineyard Management24:54 Spotlight on Top Vineyards27:56 Exploring Vineyard Soil Types30:15 Managing Vineyards: Experience and Intuition34:01 Historic Vineyards38:51 Future of Winemaking and Expansion42:13 Traditional Winemaking Techniques51:19 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 Five Questions from the Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Cornelius Dönnhoff, head of the iconic Weingut Dönnhoff in Germany’s Nahe region. Cornelius shares insights into his Riesling-focused estate, his minimalist approach to winemaking, and how he strives to capture the essence of each vineyard site. He reflects on memorable vintages like the challenging 2006 and the ideal 2015, discusses the global wines that inspire him (from Georgian traditionals to Australian trailblazers), and shares his thoughts on cork vs. screwcap closures for Riesling. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Dönnhoff wines or just discovering them, this five-question format offers a personal glimpse into one of Germany’s top estates.Topics Covered:The philosophy behind Dönnhoff’s site-expressive RieslingsWhy 2015 and 2006 were unforgettable vintagesThoughts on screwcap vs. cork for Riesling agingGlobal inspirations from Georgia, New Zealand, and beyondWhat’s next for Weingut DönnhoffTime stamps:00:00 Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast00:19 Welcome to Five Questions00:43 Meet Cornelius Donoff00:51 Vineyard Location and Varieties01:28 Philosophy of Donoff Wines02:09 Inspirations and Influences03:22 Perspectives on Wine Closures04:14 Memorable Vintages06:09 Future of Donoff Winery06:39 ConclusionThe 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 sit down with Charles Curtis MW, author, former Head of Wine at Christie’s in New York and Hong Kong, Burgundy and Champagne expert, and one of the most respected wine consultants in the world. With decades of experience spanning the restaurant world, wholesale trade, global auction houses, and private cellar advisory, Charles offers a rare perspective on how fine wine is collected, valued, and appreciated at the highest levels. This conversation spans the evolution of Burgundy and Champagne, the future of vineyard classification, and the challenges and opportunities facing collectors and producers alike.Key Topics:How Burgundy and Champagne are adapting to climate changeCharles' most impactful consulting projects and cellar inspectionsThe evolution of domain-bottling in Champagne and the role of grower producersA behind-the-scenes look at his influential books, including Vintage Champagne: 1899–2019 and the forthcoming Atlas of the Greater Côte des BlancsWhy maps and historical vineyard classifications still matter in BurgundyHis top picks for value in Burgundy—and where collectors should look nextThis episode offers a rare window into the mind of one of the wine world’s most respected figures, blending market insight, regional expertise, and personal stories from decades at the top of the trade.📍 Wine news highlights include:Louis Roederer’s new Brut Nature project and packaging overhaulBurgundy vineyard land prices hit new records for the 28th consecutive yearTime Stamps:00:00 Introduction to the Vin Wine Podcast00:29 Billy Lanco's MW Exam Experience03:12 Guest Introduction: Charles Curtis, Master of Wine03:47 Event Marketplace News06:46 Discussion on Champagne and Burgundy10:56 Interview with Charles Curtis: Career Journey20:40 Charles Curtis on Wine Consulting and Market Trends28:38 Shifts in the Asian Wine Market29:27 The Burgundy Book Project34:04 Evolution of Burgundy Winemaking38:44 Exploring Value in Burgundy Wines41:34 Champagne: Past and Future52:03 Challenges and Trends in Grower Champagne57:35 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes🎙 Hosted by Brady Weller and Billy Galanko📦 Powered by VintMarketplace.com: Explore one of the largest selections of collectible wines and spirits in the U.S.Follow & Subscribe→ Apple Podcasts→ Spotify→ YouTubeThe 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, presented by the Vint Marketplace, we welcome Charles Curtis MW—renowned wine consultant, author, and authority on Burgundy and Champagne.Charles shares his expertise on how maps help decode complex wine regions, how vintages like 2012 in Champagneand 2019 in Burgundy are shaping collector trends, and why lesser-known regions like New York’s Finger Lakes and Germany’s Mosel deserve your attention.Highlights include:His top current-release and historic vintages in both Burgundy and ChampagneWhy 2017 Burgundy is a sleeper vintage for wine lists todayThe importance of geographic context in understanding terroirInsights from his upcoming books, including one focused entirely on ChampagneDomestic favorites: Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Finger Lakes RieslingWhether you're a collector, a Burgundy obsessive, or just looking for your next great bottle, this fast-paced interview offers expert perspective in just a few minutes.About the Guest:Charles Curtis MW is a Master of Wine, former Head of Wine at Christie’s Americas and Asia, and author of Vintage Champagne: 1899–2019 and The Original Grand Crus of Burgundy. He contributes regularly to Decanter and other top wine publications.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Vent Wine Podcast00:19 Welcome to Five Questions00:43 Interview with Charles Curtis MW00:48 Focus on Burgundy and Champagne01:34 Importance of Maps in Wine Regions02:46 Favorite Vintages in Burgundy and Champagne05:31 Exploring Other Wine Regions06:27 Conclusion🎧 Brought to you by VintMarketplace.com — your source for the top wines and spirits of the world.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 welcome Adrian Bridge, CEO of the Fladgate Partnership, the historic company behind Taylor Fladgate, Fonseca, and Croft. With over 300 years of winemaking legacy, Adrian offers a fascinating look at the past, present, and future of Port—one of the world’s most iconic and ageworthy wine styles.You’ll hear about:• The evolution of Taylor Fladgate and the birth of Port as a global category• How vintage declarations work and why 1992, 1994, and 2011 were standout years• The development of white and rosé Port, including the Croft Pink revolution• Scion: the extraordinary 1855 Port discovered in a forgotten cellar• Adrian’s personal collection of 9,000-year-old drinking vessels• The story behind the Yeatman Hotel and World of Wine museum in Porto• How the Porto Protocol is uniting the global wine industry around climate actionWhether you're new to Port or a seasoned collector, this is an essential listen that connects centuries of tradition with today’s innovations.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Vint Wine Podcast00:53 Hosts' Weekend Wine Adventures02:46 Wine Tasting Experiences in Healdsburg11:14 News in the Wine World13:36 Interview with Adrian Bridge: CEO of the Flag Gate Partnership29:24 Exploring Porto and the Douro Valley29:52 The Yeatman Hotel and Tourism Efforts31:01 Porto's Historical and Cultural Richness32:57 The World of Wine Museum33:43 Personal Collections and Drinking Vessels38:02 The Beauty and Tradition of the Douro Valley39:11 Innovations in Port Production40:31 The Story of Rose Port43:13 The Scion Bottling and Historical Ports47:06 Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port50:06 Vintage Port and Standout Years55:58 The Rise of Portuguese Table Wines57:50 The Porto Protocol and Climate Change01:02:01 Conclusion and Future EpisodesExplore wines from Taylor Fladgate and more at vintmarketplace.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 speak with Adrian Bridge, CEO of the historic Port powerhouse Taylor Fladgate. One of the most respected names in fortified wine, Taylor Fladgate has been shaping the identity of Port for over 300 years. Adrian gives us a concise and insightful look into what makes Port so compelling and what lies ahead for the brand.In this episode, you'll discover• Where Taylor Fladgate sources its fruit and the key indigenous varieties grown in the Douro Valley• What makes Port unique and how it fits into the modern wine and cocktail scene• Which vintages stand out in Taylor Fladgate's history, including 1992, 1994, and the unprecedented run of 2016 through 2018• Why Port pairs so well with dessert and how it is evolving beyond tradition• What’s next for the estate including wine tourism initiatives, a new focus on Portuguese still wines, and immersive experiences for visitorsWhether you're a longtime collector or just starting your journey into Port, this episode offers valuable insights into a benchmark producer and a truly iconic wine style.Visit vintmarketplace.com to explore wines from Taylor Fladgate and other top producers.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, Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey returns to the Vint Wine Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on the art of hospitality, the evolving role of the sommelier, and the deep connections forged through thoughtful service. From his early days bussing tables after being expelled from school, to building one of America’s most respected restaurant groups, Bobby shares the personal philosophy that guides his work on the floor, in the cellar, and as a leader.We explore what defines a great sommelier, the enduring importance of humility and guest-focused service, and why social media influence is no substitute for decades of commitment. Bobby also reflects on the continued growth of Frasca Hospitality Group, the complexities of operating in a luxury hotel setting, and the expansion of his Scarpetta wine label in Friuli, Italy. Along the way, he shares stories that reveal why graduation dinners and post-surgery guests in Vail can be as instructive as any textbook on hospitality.This episode is essential listening for those passionate about wine, committed to service, or building something with lasting impact.🎧 Topics include:The realities and misconceptions of the sommelier professionThe rising profile of Italian wines and why Friuli mattersHow great restaurants build meaningful guest experiencesThe line between hospitality and performanceBurnout, intergenerational leadership, and cultivating long-term cultureExplore Bobby's wines and more at vintmarketplace.com.For the full story, be sure to listen to Bobby’s first appearance on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bobby-stuckey-on-friuli-making-service-a/id1589282192?i=1000616965191 And our interview with Carlin Carr, Beverage Director at Frasca Hospitality Group: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-wine-buying-and-building-a-wine/id1589282192?i=1000622379169The 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, hosts Billy Galanko and Brady Weller sit down with Nancy Irelan, the powerhouse behind Red Tail Ridge Winery in New York’s Finger Lakes. From her early days as a PhD student at UC Davis to leading R&D at E. & J. Gallo, Nancy brings unmatched technical depth to her boutique, cool-climate winery.She shares:🍇 How her science-driven background shapes minimalist winemaking today🥂 Why sparkling wine is the future of the Finger Lakes—and how Red Tail Ridge is leading the charge🌱 What makes Pinot Noir, Blaufränkisch, and Riesling thrive in her vineyard’s unique soils⚗️ Insider stories from her time solving production issues across Gallo’s global operations🏔 Her vision of the Finger Lakes as a world-class wine and travel destinationThis is a deep dive into the intersection of science, terroir, and tradition, and an inspiring listen for any wine enthusiast curious about cool-climate winemaking in the U.S.📍 Explore more at vintmarketplace.com📧 Connect with Brady (brady@vint.co) or Billy (billy@vintmarketplace.com)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!