The Chronicle
Latest dispatches
112 results across all types
- podcast· 1h 02m· Ep 272
Ep 255 - Vittoria Wine Region, Sicily - Organic Wine, Indigenous Grapes & Sicilian Wine Travel with Stefano Girelli of Santa Tresa
In this episode of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat wine podcast, Janina heads to Vittoria in the south of Sicily to explore one of Italy’s most exciting and evolving wine regions. Joined by Stefano Girelli of Santa Tresa and Cortese , this episode blends wine education with a deep dive into organic viticulture, biodiversity, and the future of wine grapes in a warming climate. From indigenous Sicilian varieties to experimental vineyards preserving rare grapes, you’ll learn about wine through both tradition and innovation. And if you’re dreaming of wine travel, this episode might just inspire your next trip to Sicily. 05:28 – An introduction to Santa Tresa and Cortese, and how the two estates differ in style, philosophy and wine expression. 08:24 – Travel tips for visiting Vittoria, including why Ragusa is an ideal and authentic place to stay when exploring the region. 09:27 – Why Vittoria still feels like a hidden gem compared to more famous Sicilian destinations, offering a more authentic wi
- podcast· 57:39· Ep 271
Ep 254 - Brunello di Montalcino Wine: Terroir, Clones & Aging Potential | Italian Wine Education with Ian D’Agata
In this episode of the wine podcast, Janina dives into one of Italy’s most prestigious and age-worthy wines: Brunello di Montalcino. Joined by Italian wine expert Ian D’Agata , this episode blends wine education with a deep exploration of wine regions, helping you learn about wine through the lens of Sangiovese. From wine grapes and clonal diversity to terroir, aging potential and tasting profiles, you’ll discover what makes Brunello unique and how this iconic Tuscan wine compares to others made from the same grape. Plus, if you love wine travel, you’ll hear about an immersive opportunity to study wine directly in Montalcino, tasting up to 100 wines with producers in the region. To find out more about joining The Ian D’Agata Wine Academy in Montalcino on 16th, 17th & 18th April 2026 click here. Or email Giulia Corino For those attending the Ian D’Agata Wine Academy, there will be a special guest speaker session led by Maddy Jimerson MS , Master Sommelier and Director of Casa Mia in Den
- podcast· 1h 05m· Ep 269
Ep 253 - Rhône Valley Wine Region | French Wine Deep Dive for WSET Diploma D3
In this flashcard-style wine education podcast episode, Janina takes a deep dive into the Rhône Valley, exploring the climate, terroir, wine grapes, and AOCs that define both the Northern and Southern Rhône. Designed to support students preparing for the WSET Diploma theory exam, this episode focuses on the key facts, yields, blending rules, and appellation regulations essential for understanding one of France’s most important wine regions. While structured for exam preparation, it’s also ideal for anyone who wants to learn about wine in a focused, detailed way - whether you’re studying formally, strengthening your professional knowledge, exploring wine travel, or simply keen to deepen your understanding of French wine. A rigorous, well-organised exploration of the geography, regulations, and styles that shape the Rhône Valley - created for serious learners and curious wine lovers alike. 💡 Want more flashcard-style episodes? Previously, Janina has also produced episodes to help with F
- podcast· 54:00· Ep 268
Ep 252 - Ungrafted Vines, Phylloxera & Old Vines: The Science of Wine Grafting with Jamie Goode
In this episode, Janina takes us deep into one of the most dramatic stories in wine history - the arrival of phylloxera in 19th century Europe - and explores how that crisis continues to shape the wines we drink today. She is joined by Jamie Goode - wine writer, judge, lecturer and author with a PhD in plant biology - to unpack the science behind grafting, the myth and magic of old vines, forgotten grape varieties, and whether ungrafted vines truly produce better wines. From Japan’s wax paper “hats” protecting grape bunches, to Barossa’s centenarian vineyards, to modern disease-resistant varieties like Voltis and Floréal, this episode blends history, science and future-facing viticulture in one fascinating conversation. If you’ve ever wondered whether ungrafted vines are superior, what actually happens during grafting, or how climate change might reshape grape varieties - this is your episode. 02:59 – The most surprising wine region Jamie has visited so far is Japan’s with it’s unique
- podcast· 54:26· Ep 267
Ep 251 - Petit Arvine & the Hidden Grapes of Valais: DNA Discoveries and World-Class Swiss Syrah with José Vouillamoz
In this episode, Janina travels to Switzerland’s Valais – a dramatic Alpine region that is home to one of the highest concentrations of indigenous grape varieties in the world. She is joined by José Vouillamoz , leading authority on grape origins and DNA profiling, co-author of Wine Grapes, and author of Swiss Grapes, to explore Valais’ ancient varieties, genetic mysteries, heroic viticulture and why this small region quietly produces some of the world’s best Syrah. From Petit Arvine and Amigne to Cornalin, Humagne Rouge and age-worthy Chasselas (Fendant), this is a fascinating deep dive into Swiss wine history, science and flavour. 02:59 The coolest fact about Valais - the world’s smallest vineyard owned by the Dalai Lama. 05:21 Janina links back to her episode (Ep 75) on the most unique vineyards in the world. 05:59 Why Valais is genetically unique - indigenous grapes found nowhere else. 07:22 Is Valais the most concentrated region for native grape varieties? 10:01 The Alpine landsca
- podcast· 50:52· Ep 266
Ep 250 - Beyond Nebbiolo: Nascetta, Pelaverga, Freisa & The Hidden Gems of the Langhe with Agnese Gintere
After diving deep into Nebbiolo in Episode 248, Janina knew it was time to go further into Piemonte - but this time beyond Barolo and Barbaresco. In this episode, she’s joined by Baltic wine expert and educator Agnese Gintere to explore the lesser-known indigenous grapes of the Langhe. From the so-called “white Barolo” Nascetta to Pelaverga, Freisa, Dolcetto, Barbera, Arneis and Favorita, this is a love letter to the region’s unsung heroes. Expect producer recommendations, travel tips, value alternatives to Barolo - and yes, a little Nebbiolo obsession too. 04:04 Why Langhe? The recent rise of Barolo & Barbaresco and why the region feels magical. 06:04 Falling in love with Langhe - the wines first, then the fog, hills and landscape. 08:33 If not Nebbiolo, then what? The real unsung hero grapes of Langhe. 10:31 Nascetta explained - the so-called “white Barolo” and its revival from near extinction. 12:45 What Agnese learned about Nascetta’s history and ageing potential. 15:05 Pelaverga -
- podcast· 52:05· Ep 265
Ep 249 - Garnacha, Premium Cava, Bobal & Sherry: Spain’s New Wine Wave with Ellie Scott
Fresh back from Barcelona Wine Week , Janina is joined by Spanish wine expert and UK Sherry Ambassador Ellie Scott to unpack what’s really happening in Spain right now. From the Garnacha revival and the evolution of premium Cava to forgotten grape varieties like Bobal and Airén, this episode explores the exciting diversity of modern Spanish wine. And if you stay until the end, you’ll get a brilliant crash course in how to understand (and truly enjoy) Sherry. Shownotes 02:48 What it’s really like attending Barcelona Wine Week - 90 DOs and 1,300+ wineries. 03:44 90 Spanish DOs represented - how do you even approach tasting at that scale? 06:26 Rosé masterclass - modern Spanish rosado styles beyond the stereotype. 11:07 Garnacha’s revival - altitude, drought resistance and shedding its rustic past. 12:08 Garnacha plantings then vs now - why Tempranillo took over and why Garnacha is rising again. 16:08 Cava’s image problem - how premium categories (Cava de Guarda Superior) are reshaping pe
- podcast· 56:38· Ep 264
Ep 248 – Barolo vs Barbaresco: Nebbiolo, Terroir & Biotypes Explained with Ian D’Agata
In this wonderfully geeky and genuinely fascinating episode, Janina is joined by Ian D’Agata , one of the world’s leading authorities on Italian wine, to unpack the real differences between Barolo and Barbaresco — far beyond the usual shortcuts. From Nebbiolo’s biotypes and soil types to climate, communes, MGAs and practical tasting tips, this is a deep yet accessible guide for anyone who wants to better understand why Nebbiolo remains one of the most compelling and misunderstood grapes in the world. Stay until the end for a special giveaway courtesy of Ian himself. Shownotes 02:32 What first drew Ian to Barolo and Barbaresco. 04:52 What is Nebbiolo? Aromas, structure and what makes it so unique. 07:15 How geography, soils and place shape Nebbiolo wines. 08:16 Finding new angles after decades of writing about Italian wine. 09:48 Ian’s favourite lesser-known native grape from Northern Italy. 11:14 A favourite lesser-known native grape from Southern Italy. 13:21 The most beautiful wine r
- podcast· 54:22· Ep 263
Ep 247 - Croatian Wine Demystified: Plavac Mali, Pošip, Teran & Malvazija Istarska with Miquel Hudin
In this episode, Janina travels to Croatia, a country best known for its coastline, history and food - but still widely misunderstood when it comes to wine. She is joined by Miquel Hudin , American-Croatian wine writer and founder of the Vinologue book series, to explore Croatia’s regions, indigenous grape varieties, travel tips, and the wines that best represent this diverse and historic wine country. From Dalmatia to Istria, coastal vineyards to continental regions, this is a deep yet accessible guide to Croatian wine for curious drinkers and travellers alike. A quick shout out to this episode’s lovely sponsor Viavinum . I’ve got a special discount code that could earn up 5 or even 8% off your wine tour. Find details at the bottom.* Shownotes 01:50 Fun fact: Zinfandel is Croatian - the genetic link to Crljenak Kaštelanski. 02:25 Via Vinum Wine Tours and bespoke wine travel experiences. 03:48 What makes Croatian wines special - why they’re worth exploring and travelling for. 05:12 Whi
- podcast· 45:13· Ep 261
Ep 246 - French Wine Deep Dive: Languedoc & Roussillon for WSET Diploma Students
In this flashcard-style WSET Diploma D3 “Wines of the World” episode, Janina dives deep into the sun-drenched vineyards of Languedoc and Roussillon, exploring the climate, terroir, grape varieties, and AOCs that define these huge and diverse regions. Perfect for students preparing for the WSET Diploma theory exam, this episode covers key facts, yields, blending rules, and appellation regulations — but it’s also for wine lovers who want to geek out on French wine or be inspired by some of the most exciting wines coming out of southern France today. A detailed, geeky, and highly structured exploration of geography, grapes, regulations, and the stories behind the wines of Languedoc and Roussillon. 💡 Want more flashcard-style episodes? Previously, Janina has produced episodes to help with Fortified Wine and Sparkling Wine exams. You can find them here: Ep 113: Shery, VdNs, Rutherglen Muscat Ep 120: Port & Madeira Ep 129: Sparkling Wine Production Ep 136: Champagne Ep 142: All other sparkl
- podcast· 54:20· Ep 262
Ep 245 - Rooted in Change: Sustainability, Climate & the Human Side of Wine with Jane Masters MW & Andrew Neather
In the first episode of 2026, Janina is joined by Jane Masters MW and Andrew Neather, co-authors of Rooted in Change: The Stories Behind Sustainable Wine . Together, they explore what sustainability truly means in today’s wine world — looking beyond buzzwords to examine climate change, vineyard practices, winery operations, packaging, and the often-overlooked human side of wine production. An insightful, honest and thought-provoking conversation about the future of wine and the choices shaping it. You can buy the book at Académie du Vin Library for £20 - but use the code EATSLEEP15 for 15% off any of the books on the site. This episode is sponsored by Zeno : Alcohol Liberated Wines (Non Alcoholic Producer of the Year 2025 with the International London Wine Competition ) The wine mentioned is the Zeno Alcohol-Liberated Sparkling £12.50 from Waitrose and Waitrose Cellar . Follow Zeno on Instagram @drinkzeno . Shownotes 02:15 Fun fact of the episode: why some grapes do better in heat that
- podcast· 1h 00m· Ep 260
Ep 244 – The Art of Silver Oak: Cabernet, Cooperage & American Oak with Laura Oskwarek, Director of Winemaking
In the final episode of the year, Janina is joined by Laura Oskwarek , Director of Winemaking at Silver Oak , to explore one of the most fascinating (and often overlooked) elements of winemaking: oak. Together they taste and compare Silver Oak’s Napa Valley and Alexander Valley Cabernets, dive deep into Silver Oak’s unique in-house cooperage, and unpack everything from tree selection and seasoning to toast levels, sustainability and style. A rich, geeky and festive deep dive into Cabernet, craftsmanship and the people behind one of California’s most iconic wineries. Shownotes 03:32 Laura’s scientific background - from microbiology and Yale to winemaking. 04:52 Choosing wine as a career: the moment wine replaced medicine. 06:32 Early lessons from Schramsberg and Nickel & Nickel - teamwork, terroir and patience. 11:55 How Silver Oak has evolved over the years - sustainability, innovation and precision. 14:18 Precision viticulture explained: data, technology and giving each vine exactly w
- podcast· 1h 01m· Ep 259
Ep 243 - 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Champagne vs English Sparkling: Climate, Grapes & the Future with Tom Hewson
In this episode, Janina welcomes Tom Hewson , champagne correspondent for Decanter and creator of Six Atmospheres , to explore one of her favourite topics: the evolving worlds of Champagne and English sparkling wine. They dive into climate shifts, grape varieties, lost cépages, yields, soil diversity, younger producers, pruning rules, and what the future might look like for both regions. A deep, insightful and truly geeky conversation for sparkling wine lovers. Shownotes 02:19 From jazz musician to sparkling wine specialist - Tom’s unexpected journey. 03:55 Is another English Wine Report coming? Janina asks about future editions. 04:34 Behind the scenes of tasting and writing large regional reports - workload, scale and logistics. 05:57 Comparing vineyard size: hectares planted in England vs Champagne. 07:20 “How big is Champagne?” — breaking down vineyard numbers and grower totals. 09:40 Janina asks whether England is close to defining its own “grand cru” sites; Tom responds on region
- podcast· 48:37· Ep 258
Ep 242 - Cristina Torres on Heritage, Sonoma Pinot & the Next Chapter of Marimar Estate
In this episode, Janina sits down with Cristina Torres , fifth generation of the iconic Torres family and the new voice leading Marimar Estate in Sonoma. They explore the family’s Catalan roots, Marimar’s groundbreaking journey as a woman building a winery in California, the rise of Albariño and Godello in Russian River Valley, sustainability, Pinot Noir clones, and what the future looks like as Christina steps into leadership. Janina also tastes the Christina Pinot Noir and explains why she finds it one of the most romantic Pinots she has ever tried. Shownotes 02:19 Marimar’s cookbooks and why they’re perfect for Christmas gifting. 02:55 Torres’ ancestral grape recovery project — 139 sites, micro-vinifications and standout varieties like Forcada. 04:52 Christina’s first harvest at DeLoach - the shock, the workload, and what she learned. 05:30 Childhood memories of wanting to join the family winery. 06:55 Five generations of Torres winemaking since 1870. 08:14 How Christina and Marimar
- podcast· 59:17· Ep 257
Ep 241 - The Ultimate Christmas Wine Box: Perfect Pairings for Every Festive Table with Duncan Gammie, The Wee Vinoteca
In this festive episode, Janina sits down with Duncan Gammie , founder of The Wee Vinoteca, to build the ultimate Christmas Wine Box. Together they explore pairings for classic holiday dishes, taste through six standout bottles, and unpack why English fizz, Greek Assyrtiko and South African Chenin Blanc belong at your Christmas table this year. Shownotes [01:37] The Christmas Pairing Game begins - smoked salmon, prawn cocktail, Stilton, roast turkey, roast beef, nut roast, mince pies, sticky toffee pudding and panettone - what are the perfect wine pairings? [21:45] Duncan shares his background, how The Wee Vinoteca started, which recently won Wine Club of the Year from IWC. [24:26] Introducing the Christmas Wine Box - six wines designed to cover the entire holiday table with versatility and balance. [24:48] Black Chalk Classic Cuvée – English Sparkling Wine (Hampshire, UK) Duncan explains chalk soils, vintage differences, and why English sparkling has become a staple for holiday starte
- podcast· 50:05· Ep 256
Ep 240 – The Secrets of Beaujolais: Gamay, Granite Soils & Old Vines with Natasha Hughes MW
In this episode, Janina sits down with Natasha Hughes MW , author of The Wines of Beaujolais , to explore one of France’s most misunderstood wine regions. They discuss why Beaujolais is far more than simple Nouveau, how over 300 soil types and multiple winemaking styles shape the wines, and why Gamay can age beautifully. Natasha shares insights on the diversity of the Crus, the role of granite and diorite, old vines (including pre-phylloxera parcels), climate-driven changes, and the rise of exciting new producers bringing fresh energy to the region. 📚 Find Natasha’s book: The Wines of Beaujolais (Academie du Vin) 💸 Use code EATSLEEP15 for 15% off Shownotes [00:32] Beaujolais Nouveau Day recap and shifting the focus to the deeper complexity of the region. [03:22] Natasha’s journey into wine, building a writing career, and the challenge of becoming a Master of Wine. [08:39] Why Beaujolais? Natasha on the region’s history, struggles after the Nouveau boom, and its current revival. [10:0
- podcast· 51:52· Ep 255
Ep 239 – Tom Gilbey on Bordeaux Wines, Blind Tastings & Fun Wine Education
In this lively, laughter-filled episode, Janina chats with Tom Gilbey - the man who made wine fun again by tasting a different bottle at every mile of a marathon. They dive into everything from the fossil-rich soils of Chablis and the changing world of en primeur Bordeaux, to how to host your own playful blind tastings at home. Along the way, Tom shares tips for making wine approachable (and hilarious), highlights his favorite Bordeaux wines and “Super Seconds,” and reminds us that enjoying a bottle should be full of joy, stories, and a little mischief. Shownotes [01:42] Wine fact of the episode — the history behind the 1855 Bordeaux Classification and how it still shapes prestige and pricing today. [05:05] Tom shares how his viral “Wine Marathon” began: tasting a different wine every mile, his son’s support, and the unexpected global response that followed. [08:36] From chaos to community - how a family experiment turned into a worldwide audience and new passion for wine communication
- podcast· 46:40· Ep 254
Ep 238 - How to Fall in Love with Porto & the Douro: A 4-Day Wine Escape
This week, join Janina for an unforgettable journey through Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and deep into the Douro Valley - the world’s first demarcated and regulated wine region. Over four days, she shares tips, tricks, where to stay, what to sip, and the must-do moments that make Portugal’s most iconic wine region so special. From wandering the tiled streets of Porto and exploring the buzzing Mercado do Bolhão, to taking the scenic train to Pinhão, this episode is your insider guide to soaking up the Douro at its very best. Shownotes 02:00 Douro – the first demarcated and regulated wine region in the worlds and it’s they history 04:00 Why visit Porto 5:00 Where to day in Porto 05:30 Mercado do Bolhão 06:00 Travelling from airport on the metro 06:30 Day 1 Itinerary – River walks and a visit to Grahams Port Lodge 08:30 The importance of Coopers to repair the oak casks and what happens to the wine in barrels and casks 9:00 The Style of Tawny port and the new 80 year old category 11:45 The di
- podcast· 43:13· Ep 253
Ep 237 – The Science of Smell: Understanding Wine Aromas with Sietze Wijma
In this sensory-driven episode, Janina is joined by Sietze Wijma , founder of The Art of Tasting , to explore how flavour molecules shape our experience of wine. From chemistry to culture, Sietze shares how our environment, memories, and even our saliva can change what we taste in the glass. Together, they unpack the science behind wine aromas, tasting faults, and why perception is as much about learning as it is about the senses. Shownotes [00:26] Janina introduces her guest, Sietze Wijma, recognised at the 67 Pall Mall Global Communicator Awards for his work blending sensory science and wine education. [01:49] Quick wine fact — how saliva enzymes alter sweetness and release fruity aromas in Sauvignon Blanc. Based on info from The Cynic’s Guide to Wine by Sunny Hodge (Guest on Ep 232) [03:41] Sietze explains The Art of Tasting and how adding isolated flavour compounds helps students identify key aromas. [04:31] How flavour molecules like those in green bell peppers naturally occur in
- podcast· 52:17· Ep 252
Ep 236 – Lugana Wine & the Turbiana Grape: Exploring Italy’s Hidden White Wine Gem with Fabio Zenato, President of Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC
In this bright and refreshing episode, Janina travels to the shores of Lake Garda to uncover one of Italy’s most exciting and underrated white wine regions - Lugana DOC. Her guest is Fabio Zenato, president of the Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC, who brings three generations of family knowledge and a deep passion for the local Turbiana grape. Together, they explore the true identity of Turbiana, the unique glacial soils of the region, and why Lugana wines can age far beyond expectations. Expect insights into clonal selection, microclimate, and terroir - all wrapped in stories of tradition, elegance, and discovery. Shownotes [01:53] Third-generation vintner Fabio Zenato reflects on childhood memories that shaped his connection to the vineyards of Lugana. [02:28] Family heritage and early experiences that inspired a lifelong dedication to the land and its vines. [04:46] Clarifying the genetic confusion surrounding the Turbiana grape and its historical misidentification. [04:57] Understanding
- podcast· 45:37· Ep 251
Ep 235 – California’s Hidden Wine Gems: Lodi, Murphys & Amador with Paige Comrie (Wine With Paige)
In this sun-soaked Californian adventure, Janina welcomes Paige Comrie , creator behind Wine With Paige — a storyteller, wine communicator, and fellow IWSC Emerging Talent nominee . Together, they explore California’s hidden treasures: Lodi, Murphy’s, and Amador County — regions that rarely steal Napa’s spotlight but hold some of the most soulful vineyards and fascinating history in American wine. From rolling down hills at Opus One to uncovering the gold-rush roots of California’s old vines, this episode celebrates authenticity, creativity, and the deep sense of place that defines these lesser-known wine regions. Expect laughter, discovery, and plenty of Zinfandel talk along the way. Shownotes [03:59] How Paige went from business school in Michigan to discovering wine through Wine for Dummies and Wine Folly . [05:27] The 18 noble grape varieties as a framework for understanding global wine styles. [06:55] Tasting across those grapes as an education in structure, aroma, and texture — f
- podcast· 56:56· Ep 250
Ep 234 – The Soul of Soil: Exploring Terroir, Cinsault & Itata Wines with Pedro Parra (Dr. Terroir)
In this fascinating and earthy episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina welcomes one of the world’s leading voices in soil and terroir — Pedro Parra, affectionately known as Dr. Terroir or Pedro Pits. A soil scientist, consultant, and winemaker, Pedro has studied over 50,000 soil pits across the globe and holds a PhD in terroir. His work has redefined how we understand vineyard mapping, root behavior, and the intimate connection between geology and the taste of wine. Together, Janina and Pedro dig deep — quite literally — into the role of soil, minerality, and terroir expression in winemaking. From limestone and granite to volcanic ash and clay, Pedro explains which grapes grow best in each soil type. They also explore Itata, Chile, one of South America’s oldest and most under-the-radar regions, and discuss Pedro’s beautiful 90-year-old-vine Cinsault, a wine that captures the soul of granite and the spirit of Burgundy. Expect scientific insight, poetic reflection, and a whole lot of pa
- podcast· 53:21· Ep 249
Ep 233 – Champagne vs. Crémant: Sparkling Wine Regions, Wine Studies & Blind Tasting Tips with Cokie Ponikvar (Cokie’s World of Wine)
In this sparkling episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by Cokie Ponikvar – shortlisted (and later winner) for the IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication , Advanced Sommelier, and now on the path to both Master Sommelier and Master of Wine. Known to nearly half a million Instagram followers as Cokie’s World of Wine, Cokie’s infectious passion and disciplined study style have inspired a new wave of wine lovers worldwide. Together they dive into the fascinating world of Champagne vs. Crémant – uncovering why Champagne’s history and terroir make it unique, what the grower Champagne movement means for drinkers, and how eight French regions (plus Luxembourg) produce high-quality Crémant that can rival Champagne at a fraction of the price. Expect insights into blind tasting challenges, producer styles, and practical tips for studying sparkling wine. You’ll also discover: [02:26] – Luxembourg’s Crémant: spotlight on Bernard-Massard , the country’s leading producer [04:43] – H
- podcast· 1h 01m· Ep 248
Ep 232: Wine Science: Rootstocks, Soil Health, Aromas, Faults & the Future of Wine with Sunny Hodge (The Cynic’s Guide to Wine)
In the Season 6 premiere of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by Sunny Hodge , founder of Diogenes the Dog wine bar in London and author of The Cynic’s Guide to Wine (use code EATSLEEP15 for 15% off this book and all Academie du Vin books). Known for shaking up traditional wine education, Sunny takes us on a journey into the science behind wine, from rootstocks and yeast strains to soils, sulphites and histamines. This episode dives deep into how low-intervention vs. natural wine is defined, what mouse taint and Brettanomyces really mean for your glass, and why the future of wine chat might balance both the romance of terroir and the hard facts of winemaking. Expect myth-busting, geeky insights, and plenty of food for thought on how wine is grown, made, and enjoyed. If you’ve ever wondered what truly changes your wine beyond the grape – from organic regulations in the EU vs. USA, to terpenes, esters, and thiols – this is an episode that will transform the way you understand every