Matthew's World of Wine and Drink

In this second episode featuring an interview with a winemaker, we talk about what goes on in the winery - from when the grapes come in until fermentation is complete - and we discuss the merits of how much a winemaker should intervene (or not).

First of a series of interviews with a custom crush winemaker from Napa Valley. In this first episode, we explore how he approaches the practicalities of winemaking, especially when dealing with different customers' needs and expectations - an approach he says is all about "process." A fascinating insight into everything a winemaker does behind the scenes.

Viticulture in Romania dates back to the 7th century BC, and the country has a rich tradition with many indigenous grape varieties. However, only 11% of wine is exported and Romanian wine is little known outside the country. Romania has the potential to expand abroad, as the wines are improving and are good value. So learn about this very varied country before the wines become better known!

North African countries may not be known for their wine, but they have a long and important wine-producing history - and currently make a small but interesting amount of quality wine.

The culture of winemaking in the Eastern Mediterranean goes back thousands of years, although it's only in the last thirty years that quality has begun to slowly re-emerge. This episode focuses on the culture of winemaking in Turkey, Israel, and Lebanon, and the challenges those countries face.

What impact do soils have on the taste of wine? Is there a direct correlation between soil type and flavour profile? Why do wines from vines grown on limestone soils taste differently from those grown on slate? I discuss all these questions and more in the latest episode of my podcast!

Greek winemaking (and drinking) goes all way back to Ancient Greece, but after centuries of neglect it's only in recent decades that the country has once again begun to make high-quality wine. Despite economic challenges and the difficulty of marketing unfamiliar varieties and regions, there are Greek producers determined to make great wine. Learn about the varieties and regions in this episode so you can go and check out some of the fantastic - and fantastic value - wines being made.

A look at New Zealand's wine regions, exploring the growing diversity of this young country.

New Zealand is the youngest of the major wine-producing countries, but it has quickly become famous for its characteristic style of Sauvignon Blanc. The industry is now at a crossroads, drawing on its success to become more diverse. This episode looks at the history of New Zealand and the different grape varieties - not just Sauvignon Blanc.

A quick look at one of the world's newest, largest, and most isolated wine regions, Western Australia. In a short space of time, Margaret River has become famous for exceptional wine from Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, with Frankland River and Mt. Barker following suit, especially for Riesling and Shiraz.