Vint Wine Podcast

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, hosts Brady Weller and Billy Galanko sit down with renowned wine author Karen MacNeil to explore her fascinating journey through food and wine writing, the intricacies of crafting The Wine Bible, and her latest campaign, “Come Over October.” With three volumes of The Wine Bible under her belt, Karen reveals the challenges and joys of creating a reference work that’s as approachable as it is informative. This episode also highlights Karen’s latest venture, WineSpeed, her website and weekly newsletter where she shares well-researched insights, opinions, and quick facts about wine.Karen discusses how her journey began in food writing, a pursuit that eventually led her to become one of the most respected voices in wine. She talks about how she made wine writing accessible to everyone, from casual drinkers to connoisseurs, through a blend of in-depth research and relatable storytelling. Karen also shares her thoughts on the wine industry today, covering topics like sustainability, regional trends, and her concerns about the homogenization of New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs and Napa Valley wines.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Vint Podcast00:31 Coravin Wine Preservation and Giveaway03:09 Oregon Chardonnay: America's Best White Wines?06:01 Exploring Botrytized Wines and Sparkling Wine13:08 Interview with Karen McNeil: Author of The Wine Bible27:53 The Beginnings of the Wine Bible28:39 Writing Style and Reader Engagement29:38 Personal Touch in Wine Writing30:01 The Power of Storytelling in Wine35:58 Challenges in Writing the Wine Bible40:15 Food and Wine Pairings43:39 Emerging Wine Regions and Trends45:41 The Birth of Wine Speed48:59 Controversial Opinions in Wine54:25 Environmental Concerns in Wine Production57:17 Come Over October Campaign59:51 Future Plans and Travel01:03:31 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 Podcast, hosts Brady Weller and Billy Galanko welcome Kyle Luke, CEO of CellarEye, to explore how his company is innovating the way wine collectors manage their cellars. Brady and Billy also discuss the intriguing story behind the exclusive wine, Liber Pater, known for its high price and rare, pre-phylloxera varietals grown in Bordeaux.CellarEye brings a fresh approach to simplifying cellar organization utilizing advanced RFID technology and an easy-to-use digital mapping system, allowing users to seamlessly track their wine collections with just a tap. CellarEye’s Premium and Premium Plus tiers offer a simple, intuitive solution for collectors of all sizes, helping them effortlessly manage their wines without the hassle of traditional inventory methods. Kyle also shares insights into CellarEye’s White Glove Services, which offer personalized assistance for larger collections and custom cellar setups, ensuring a smooth onboarding experience.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Vint Podcast00:44 Exciting News and Partnerships01:09 Discussion on Lieber Pater Wine07:09 Challenges in Wine Cellar Management08:29 Introduction to CellarEye11:44 Special Offers for Vint Marketplace Customers14:22 Interview with CellarEye CEO Kyle Luke28:58 The Problem with Wine Cellar Management30:59 The Founding of Celeri31:50 Innovative Technology: Computer Vision and AI34:15 Introducing Celeri Premium36:58 User Experience and Benefits44:41 Availability and Future Plans50:15 Personal Wine Preferences and Trends52:59 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 Podcast, hosts Brady Weller and Billy Galanko are joined by Laura DePasquale, Master Sommelier and Senior VP of Artisanal Wines at Southern Glazer Wine and Spirits. With over two decades in the wine industry, Laura shares her insights on navigating a path from sommelier to senior executive. Her career, which began on the floor of restaurants, soon took her into the distribution side, where she quickly became known for her business acumen and expertise in fine wine. Laura recounts her journey through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a process that included years of rigorous study, challenges as a female in a male-dominated field, and eventually earning her Master Sommelier title in 2004.As VP at Southern Glazer, Laura has pioneered the creation of the company’s Artisanal Wine Division, defining fine wine in a way that goes beyond price to focus on terroir, legacy, and production scale. She shares how her work has shifted perceptions of “fine wine” within the industry, prioritizing wines that speak to unique family stories and sustainable practices. Laura also opens up about the importance of mentorship and legacy, explaining how she’s dedicated to paving the way for future wine professionals by fostering a culture of inclusivity, knowledge, and respect for craftsmanship.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to the Vint Podcast00:32 Coravin Giveaway Announcement01:05 YouTube Content and Future Plans04:22 Hospice de Beaune Insights07:12 Introducing Laura DePasquale10:24 Laura's Journey in the Wine Industry16:38 Building the Artisanal Wine Division30:31 Starting a Wine Distribution Business32:50 Improving Wine Handling and Storage33:26 Customer Feedback and Strategy35:10 Family-Owned Business Dynamics35:44 Trends and Changes in the Wine Industry36:07 Breaking Barriers as a Female Sommelier45:43 Navigating Career and Personal Life53:26 Future Plans and LegacyThe 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 Podcast, Billy and Brady sit down with acclaimed rosé experts, Elizabeth Gabay MW and her son Ben Bernheim, for an in-depth discussion on the fascinating world of rosé wines. Elizabeth, a Master of Wine and author of Rosé: Understanding the Pink Wine Revolution, and Ben, her collaborator and fellow rosé advocate, bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.The evolution of rosé from a simple, seasonal wine to a complex, age-worthy category.How rosé is produced, from direct pressing to maceration techniques.The ageability of rosé and which producers and regions are leading the way.Books: Rosé: Understanding the pink wine revolutionRosés of Southern FranceTime Stamps:00:44 Coravin Wine Preservation Giveaway01:49 Napa Valley's New AVA: Crystal Springs06:14 Interview with Rosé Experts Elizabeth Gabay and Ben Bernheim09:28 The Journey into Rosé Wine23:01 The Evolution and Popularity of Rosé36:05 Wine Tasting Experience36:30 Exploring Rosé Styles38:27 Traditional and Modern Rosé Making Techniques41:06 Rosé Production in Different Regions42:57 The Complexity of Rosé50:54 Ageability of Rosé Wines01:00:43 Fine Rosé Wines and Their Value01:06:29 Personal Rosé ProductionThe 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 Podcast, hosts Brady Weller and Billy Galanko welcome Humberto Jardim, Managing Director and Head Winemaker of Henriques & Henriques, one of the oldest and most respected Madeira wine producers. Humberto shares his in-depth knowledge of Madeira wine production, sales, its history, and the unique challenges of growing grapes on the steep terrain of the island. He explains how Madeira’s sub-tropical climate, combined with traditional winemaking techniques, creates some of the most complex and long-lived wines in the world.Throughout the conversation, Humberto provides a detailed look into the intricate aging process that defines Madeira wines. Unlike most wines, Madeira undergoes a unique aging journey that includes exposure to heat and oxygen, which helps develop the rich flavors and remarkable resilience that Madeira is known for. Humberto also discusses the different styles of Madeira—from the bright Sercial to the rich Malmsey—explaining how each grape variety contributes to the wine's diverse flavor profiles.The episode also explores Henriques & Henriques’ leadership in reviving the rare Terrantez grape on Madeira, which has gained renewed attention due to its complex and nuanced wines. Humberto sheds light on why this particular grape is challenging for growers but holds immense potential for those willing to take the risk.Chapters:01:13 Weekly News Highlights04:21 Understanding Madeira Wine Production06:05 Diving into Madeira Wine Varieties12:53 Interview with Humberto Jardim26:07 Madeira's Global Reach and Historical Significance27:01 Challenges and Characteristics of the Terrantez grape28:07 Understanding Madeira's Unique Wine Profiles31:37 The Complexity of Fortified Wine Production33:17 The Art of Blending Madeira Wines47:08 Market Strategies and Consumer Education52:04 Future Prospects and Historical Value of Madeira57:24 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 150th episode of The Vint Podcast, a production of Vint Marketplace (VintMarketplace.com), hosts  Brady Weller and Billy Galanko sit down with restaurant industry veteran and wine collector James R. Walker to explore his journey into the world of wine. Starting in culinary school, where his love for food sparked a deeper curiosity about wine, James shares how his passion has evolved over decades—from enjoying approachable California wines to curating a cellar filled with some of the world’s most coveted bottles.What sets James apart is his refreshing approach to wine. He believes that wine should be enjoyed without pretense, whether it's pairing a Grand Cru Burgundy with pizza or hosting friends to select any bottle from his cellar to share. James emphasizes the joy of discovery and the importance of hospitality in all aspects of life.The conversation dives into James' exploration of wine regions, from California to Burgundy, as well as his interest in sharing wines that challenge preconceived notions. The episode also touches on James’ ethos of generosity, ensuring that those in the hospitality industry have access to great wine as part of their education and experience.Chapters:00:44 Celebrating 150 Episodes with Billy Galanko02:03 A Memorable Wine Tasting Experience04:52 Challenges and Changes in the Wine Industry06:57 Interview with Wine Enthusiast James Walker30:16 The Pickle Conundrum30:57 Food Preferences and Culinary Experiences33:34 Wine Journey and Cellar Insights36:51 Sharing Wine and Hospitality42:27 Exploring Unique Wines54:27 Natural Wines and Dining Experiences57:21 Following the Wine Journey59:22 Conclusion and FarewellThe 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 Podcast, Brady and Billy chat with Jon Fine, Editor-in-Chief of The New Wine Review. Jon shares his fascinating journey into the world of wine, discussing how his passion for music and writing shaped his unique perspective. He dives into the inspiration behind The New Wine Review, which aims to demystify wine for enthusiasts of all levels while highlighting lesser-known producers and regions.Jon also talks about what differentiates The New Wine Review from traditional wine publications, emphasizing the focus on community, exploration, and engaging storytelling. He introduces the publication's interactive Slack channel, where subscribers and contributors exchange tips, travel recommendations, and discuss their latest wine discoveries. Throughout the episode, Jon stresses the importance of highlighting under-the-radar and under appreciated wines, bringing attention to producers, regions, and vintages that often go unnoticed aside from those in the know. The Billy, Brady, and Jon touch on topics such as natural wines, hidden gems on wine lists, the significance of intellectual and sensuous enjoyment in wine, and the vibrant conversations happening in the wine world today. This episode offers listeners a fresh, inclusive perspective on wine, blending enthusiasm with knowledge and encouraging open-minded exploration.Chapters:00:51 Weekend Wine Adventures03:37 Exploring Bordeaux's New White Wine07:30 Introducing John Fine and The New Wine Review12:23 John Fine's Wine Journey23:13 The New Wine Review: Vision and Team30:19 Cretan Wine and Legacy Publications32:11 Exploring Wine Regions and Personal Preferences34:21 The Locality and Romance of Wine35:44 Diverse Wine Regions and Producers42:04 The New Wine Review Community44:32 Hidden Gems on Wine ListsThe 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 Podcast, hosts Billy Galanko and Brady Weller are joined by esteemed authors Don and Petie Kladstrup. The Kladstrups are renowned for their captivating books on the intersection of wine and history, including Wine and War, Champagne Charlie, and Champagne. Together, they discuss the impact of war on the French wine industry, the resilience of winemakers during World War I and II, and the fascinating stories behind some of the world's most treasured vintages. The Kladstrups share stories about the wine-making process under Nazi occupation and the strategic hiding of precious vintages.The conversation also sheds light on how the Kladstrups' research brought to life the dramatic tale of Charles Heidsieck, better known as “Champagne Charlie,” and his pivotal role in shaping Champagne's presence in the U.S. markets during the Civil War. The episode touches on key historical moments, the human spirit of perseverance, and the wine industry's remarkable ability to survive and thrive amidst adversity. It's a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the cultural significance of wine across time.This episode offers a deep dive into the untold histories of wine, perfect for both history buffs and wine enthusiasts.Chapters:01:12 Weekly Wine News: Dom Perignon's 2023 Vintage04:54 Impact of Storm Boris on Austrian Wines10:56 Interview with Don and Petey Kladstrup: Authors of Wine and War14:18 Journey to France and the Birth of Wine and War24:45 The Impact of World War II on French Winemaking26:20 Stories of Survival and Resistance26:57 Challenges in Documenting War Stories28:09 The Resilience of Winemakers29:25 The Legacy of Wartime Wines37:57 The Role of German Wine Viewers40:42 Champagne During World War I44:08 Marketing the Allure of Champagne51:21 The Heidsieck Family Saga53:18 Modern Challenges in Winemaking55:57 Personal Reflections on Wine58:19 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 the Vint Podcast, hosts Billy Galanko and Brady Weller sit down with Laurence Féraud, the dynamic winemaker and driving force behind Pégau in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Laurence shares her journey in the wine industry, the story of Domaine de Pégau's growth, and the passion that drives her winemaking philosophy. The conversation delves into the complexities of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the challenges of the 2024 harvest, and the significance of traditional winemaking techniques. Laurence also discusses her acclaimed wines, including the renowned Cuvée Da Capo, and her innovative approach to crafting white wines in the region. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the legacy and future of one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s most celebrated estates.Featured Wines:Domaine de Pégau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Da CapoDomaine de Pégau Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée RéservéeDomaine de Pégau A Tempo (Biodynamic White)Domaine de Pégau Cuvée LaurenceChapters:00:36 Coravin Giveaway Announcement00:59 Interview with Master of Wine Candidate Billy Galenko01:34 Exploring the MW Program04:14 Wine Tasting Experiences and Trends05:38 Birthday Wine Tasting Highlights13:18 Discussion on Birth Year Wines14:24 Introduction to Laurence Feroad and Domaine Pégaux25:38 The Legacy of Winemaking26:30 Introducing Wines to Critics27:11 Traditional Winemaking Process27:38 Climate and Winemaking Techniques29:27 Expansion and Success30:52 The Da Capo Legacy32:18 Balancing Tradition and Innovation40:25 Challenges in Organic Winemaking44:01 The Evolution of White Wines58:05 Exploring Global Wines01:00:32 Conclusion and Future HopesThe 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 Podcast, hosts Billy Galanko and Brady Weller welcome Larry Brooks, a veteran winemaker, author, and former professor. Larry provides listeners with a deep dive into the world of winemaking that goes beyond the bottle. His impressive winemaking career spans four decades, with notable tenures at Acacia, Tolosa, and as a consultant for many California wineries. Larry shares his fascinating journey from his early days at Acacia Winery to his ongoing passion for winemaking, particularly Chardonnay, which he considers the most challenging grape to master.Larry also discusses his latest project, Liquid Geography, a Substack series where he shares his vast knowledge of wine tasting, winemaking, and vineyard management. He delves into the complexities of sensory evaluation, emphasizing the importance of aroma and flavor over structure in the tasting experience. Larry sheds light on the evolution of wine science and his take on "natural wine," offering a compelling argument for the benefits of using selected yeasts and modern winemaking techniques to craft wines that are both delicious and safe. The conversation also touches on Larry’s perspectives on climate change and its impact on viticulture.Chapters:00:37 Exciting Coravin Giveaway Announcement02:14 Revamped Instagram and Podcast Highlights04:21 Introducing Today's Guest: Larry Brooks07:49 Larry Brooks' Journey in the Wine Industry10:13 The Sensory Experience of Winemaking11:21 Larry's Career at Acacia and Beyond15:01 Challenges and Changes in the Wine Industry15:51 The Birth of Liquid Geography17:53 Writing and Publishing Liquid Geography24:08 Teaching Sensory Evaluation29:19 Introduction to Aroma Lexicography30:12 Teaching Methods and Challenges32:15 Developing a Professional Palate38:40 The Debate on Natural Winemaking45:14 Innovations in Fermentation52:17 Current Projects and Climate Concerns56:59 Reflections on ChardonnayThe 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!