The Chronicle
Latest dispatches
92 results across all types
- podcast· 58:42· Ep 226
Ep 211: The Ultimate Chenin Blanc Quiz with Liam D'Arcy aka The Wine Wally - Will They Pass or Fail?
Welcome back Wine friends! In this episode, I’m joined by Liam D’Arcy, better known as The Wine Wally on Instagram, a wine enthusiast who has built a thriving online community of over 104,000 followers. Unlike my usual guests—winemakers, sommeliers, or Masters of Wine—Liam is a passionate self-taught wine lover who has made wine education fun, fresh, and approachable. Now, he’s taken on a bold challenge: mastering everything there is to know about Chenin Blanc. To put his knowledge to the test, I quiz Liam on the flavors, styles, and top regions for Chenin Blanc, from its spiritual home in the Loire Valley to the powerhouse vineyards of South Africa. We explore the difference between Vouvray and Savennières, the role of noble rot in sweet wines, and the surprising history of Chenin in California. But the challenge doesn’t stop there—I throw him into a rapid-fire round of global wine labeling terms to see if he can decipher everything from “Trocken” to “Feinherb.” Before diving in, I ha
- podcast· 48:48· Ep 225
Ep 210: Criolla Varieties & The Roots of South American Wine with Amanda Barnes MW (Part 2)
Welcome back wine friends! In this exciting episode we return with part two of our conversation with Amanda Barnes , a newly crowned Master of Wine and an authority on South American wine. Amanda shares her deep knowledge of Criolla grape varieties, the history and culture of South American winemaking, and the unique techniques that are helping preserve ancient vines. You can buy Amandas book HERE ! Before diving into the world of South American wine, I have some exciting news! I have been nominated for the Wine Travel Awards in the Influencer category for expert opinion. The awards celebrate the best in wine tourism and education, and your support could make a big difference. Your support would mean the world to me as I continue sharing my passion for wine with fellow enthusiasts. It takes one click to vote. So please VOTE HERE. And to listen to my previous episode (Ep 143) on Criolla Varieties - you can listen HERE. If you want to skip ahead: 03.30: Amanda Barnes MW explains the orig
- podcast· 47:38· S6E224
Ep 209: Celebrating becoming a Master of Wine, South America’s Inspiring Women in Wine, and the Best Value Bottles to Try with Amanda Barnes MW (Part 1)
Hello wine friends and welcome back! In this special episode, we sit down with the incredible Amanda Barnes , award-winning wine journalist and newly minted Master of Wine—one of only 425 in the world! As the author of The South American Wine Guide , Amanda is an expert on the region’s vibrant wine scene. You can buy here book HERE I'm excited to interview Amanda because passing the Master of Wine exams is an incredible achievement. These exams are famously tough, requiring deep knowledge, sharp tasting skills, and relentless dedication. This episode celebrates Amanda's success, starting with her journey—her challenges, discoveries, and advice for anyone pursuing their goals, whether in wine or another passion. The first 24 minutes focus on Amanda's story, including practical tips on blind tasting, refining your palate, and effective study methods. Since this episode aligns with International Women's Day on March 8th, we also spotlight trailblazing South American women winemakers. Star
- podcast· 44:22· S6E223
Ep 208: Wines of Turkey: Kalecik Karası, Red Grapes, and Visiting Turkey's Wine Regions with Sila Serim of Vinolus Winery and Bronwen Batey Editor of Turkish Wine, A Heritage Reborn (Part 2)
Hello wine friends! Welcome to part 2 of our exploration of Turkish wines! In this episode, we're back with our special guests: Sila Serim of Vinolus Winery and Bronwen Batey , Editor of Turkish Wine, A Heritage Reborn . Today, we’re delving into one of Turkey's most iconic red grapes, Kalecik Karasu (or KK for short). This once near-extinct variety has made a stunning comeback, and we’ll discuss its fascinating history and unique characteristics. We’ll talk about other red indigenous grapes to know about. Sila takes us inside Vinolus Winery, where wine lovers can sip incredible wines while staying in their guest house: Sunolus . Plus, we tackle the challenges facing Turkish wine today, the countries old vines and what the future might hold. I’m proud to be working with Drinklusive —the drink industry's first-ever inclusivity mentorship program founded by Aidy Smith, and The Three Drinkers, and supported by Jancis Robinson, the Gérard Basset Foundation, and WSET. It’s all about giving
- podcast· 45:33· S6E222
Ep 207: Wines of Turkey : Exploring Emir & Narince with Sila Serim of Vinolus Winery and Bronwen Batey Editor of Turkish Wine, A Heritage Reborn (Part 1)
Welcome back Wine friends, today we explore Turkish wines! Turkey is one of the world's oldest wine regions, yet its incredible diversity remains largely undiscovered. With over 1,400 indigenous grape varieties and 8,000 years of winemaking history, this episode dives into Turkey’s deep-rooted wine culture. Join us as we explore the fascinating story of Turkish wine, inspired by the book Turkish Wine: A Heritage Reborn . We're joined by Sila, daughter of winemaker Olus from Vinolus Winery , and wine writer Bronwen Batey , who helped bring this story to an English-speaking audience. Today we very much spotlight two must-try Turkish white grapes: Narince and Emir, the Cappadocia region and it’s terroir and why it’s a must visit region to add to your list. I’m excited to share that I’m partnered with WineMasters.tv! If you're passionate about wine, this premium streaming platform offers over 127 episodes exploring legendary wine regions, cutting-edge production techniques, and masterclass
- podcast· 33:48· S6E221
Ep 206: Wines of Ukraine: Wine Regions, Innovations & Tourism with Sera Crow (Part 2)
Welcome back, wine friends! This is Part Two of our deep dive into Ukrainian wine. In this episode, we continue the journey with Sera Crow , a doctor of chemistry turned wine communicator and WSET diploma holder. Born and raised in Ukraine, Sarah is a passionate ambassador for Ukrainian wine. We go beyond the grapes to explore Ukraine’s main wine regions, from the Black Sea coast to the Romanian and Hungarian borders. We also discuss the challenges winemakers face, the impact of recent conflicts, and their resilience through innovation—like infusing wines with botanicals (yes, I’ll be trying a wine-based mojito!). Finally, we look ahead to the future of Ukrainian wine tourism. If you want to skip ahead: 03.30: The Crimea and Black sea wine regions and their history 06.00: Prince Troubetzkoy Winery, Ukraine's oldest winery, destroyed by Russians 07.30: Wineries such as Beyush Winery based on a sanctuary 09.09: The Transcarpathia Wine Region (the western most region of Ukraine) 10.00: Ca
- podcast· 45:43· S6E220
Ep 205: The Wines of Ukraine: Indigenous Grapes & Modern Expressions with Sera Crow (Part 1)
Hello and welcome back wine friends! In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of Ukrainian wine with Sera Crow , a doctor of chemistry turned wine communicator and WSET Diploma holder. Born in Ukraine and now living in the UK, Sera shares her insights as a Ukrainian ambassador, highlighting the country’s unique grape varieties, winemaking traditions, and growing natural wine movement. We take a closer look at Odessa Black and Sukholimanskyi, two of Ukraine’s most famous grape crossings, as well as Telti-Kuruk, an ancient indigenous white grape with a history that spans thousands of years. Along the way, we also discuss unexpected varieties thriving in Ukraine, including Pinotage, Albariño, and Aligoté, and taste a biodynamic wine from an urban Ukrainian winery. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just curious about this emerging wine region, this episode is packed with discoveries you won’t want to miss. If you want to skip ahead: 00.00: Sera Crow shares her journey and pa
- podcast· 30:27· S6E219
Ep 204: Why Bhutan Could Be the World’s Next Great Wine Region & High-Altitude Vineyards with Wine Journalist Kathleen Willcox (Part 2)
Welcome back, wine friends! This is part two with the brilliant wine journalist Kathleen Willcox , whose work you can find in Wine Searcher, The Drinks Business, Full Pour, and Wine Enthusiast. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, go back and check it out—we covered the evolution of wine styles, winemaking techniques, and unique wines you may have never heard of! This week, we’re diving into a truly fascinating topic: Why Bhutan might just become one of the world’s next great wine regions and how vineyards at high altitudes are cleverly evading the challenges of climate change . Kathleen shares incredible insights on how elevation impacts grape quality, the role of antioxidants in wine, and how canopy management is evolving to adapt to warmer temperatures. Plus, we explore the future of high-altitude viticulture and whether it could become more accessible beyond premium producers. If you want to skip ahead: 04.00: Bhutan’s first commercial vineyards and why it’s an exciting new win
- podcast· 47:11· S6E218
Episode 203: Waves of Change in the Wine World with Wine Journalist Kathleen Willcox (Part 1)
Welcome Back Wine friends, and a happy new year! In this episode, I sit down with Kathleen Willcox , a renowned wine journalist featured in Wine Enthusiast, Wine Searcher, and more. Together, we explore exciting innovations in the wine world: Virginia wineries experimenting with Petit Manseng, non-vintage wines made using solera systems, unconventional methods like soaking grapes in seawater and using green tea tannins, and even wines blending grapes from around the globe. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to wine, this conversation will open your mind to bold techniques and inspiring stories shaping the future of winemaking. A big thank you to our sponsor for this episode, Wild Idol! If you're embracing Dry January or simply seeking a sophisticated, alcohol-free option, Wild Idol is the perfect choice. Their handcrafted sparkling drinks use carefully selected grapes for exceptional flavor and aromatics. But it’s not just about great taste—Wild Idol’s dedication to sustainabi
- podcast· 47:12· S5E217
Ep 202: Hidden Gems of the Vineyard: Lesser-Known Red Grapes You Need to Try with Jacinta Maddison-Williams of Inflorescence
Welcome back, wine friends! In part two with Jacinta Madison Williams, wine educator and owner of Inflorescence , we dive into five lesser-known red grape varieties perfect for your holiday table and beyond. Discover hidden gems like Bulgaria’s Melnik 55, Austria’s Saint Laurent, and a sweet surprise with Mavrodaphne. As we wrap up the year, Jacinta also opens up about how her ADHD diagnosis has shaped her journey as an entrepreneur, offering inspiration for anyone considering new ventures in 2025. Tune in for wine wisdom, personal growth, and a toast to the year ahead! And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! If you want to skip ahead: 4.00: The Bulgarian Melnik 55 grape variety 11.00: The Xinomavro variety from Greece 16.50: On to the St. Laurent grape from Austria 21
- podcast· 55:51· S5E216
Ep 201: Hidden Gems of the Vineyard: Lesser-Known White Grapes You Need to Try with Jacinta Maddison-Williams of Inflorescence
In this episode, we're joined by the brilliant and entertaining wine educator, Jacinta Maddison Williams, the creative force behind Inflorescence . From hosting paint-and-sip classes to offering DIY wine kits and curating chef experiences with perfect pairings, Jacinta’s passion for wine is infectious. Together, we dive into her Top 5 Lesser-Known White Grape Varieties—a must for your Christmas table or a refreshing start to “Try January.” Forget dry January and embrace discovery with these surprising and delightful wines. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! If you want to skip ahead: 07.30: Jacinta’s passion and journey into the world of Wine 15.32: The Koshu grape variety from Yamanashi, Japan 23.54: The Assyrtiko grape from Santorini, Greece (But now in Lebanon!
- podcast· 39:24· S5E215
Ep 200: Vines of Resilience: Uncorking the Spirit of Lebanese Wines with Vince Anter of V is for Vino (Part 2)
Celebrate a milestone with us on the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast as we reach episode 200! In this special installment, we return for part two with Vince Anter, certified sommelier and founder of V is for Vino. Join us as we journey to Lebanon, a land steeped in winemaking history. Vince shares his heartfelt experiences filming in this remarkable region, highlighting its unique terroir, the harmony of ancient traditions and modern techniques, and the influence of Lebanon's breathtaking mountainous landscapes. From the iconic wineries of Ixsir , Chateau Musar , and Chateau Ksara to unforgettable tastings, this episode is a tribute to the resilience and innovation of Lebanese winemaking and its growing recognition on the global stage. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something spec
- podcast· 45:32· S5E214
Ep 199: Uncorking the Loire Valley: Wine, Terroir, and Timeless Beauty with Vince Anter of V is for Vino (Part 1)
Hello wine friends, and welcome back! We’re thrilled to welcome Vince Anter, the founder behind the acclaimed independent wine series, V is for Vino , where Vince takes us beyond the bottle, exploring the culture, history, and winemaking philosophies that shape some of the world’s most iconic wine regions. Join us as Vince shares his journey into creating this celebrated series, the challenges he’s overcome, and unforgettable stories from his travels. We’ll also get an exclusive sneak peek into his upcoming episode on France’s Loire Valley, renowned for its diverse wines, stunning landscapes, and legendary castles. Plus, don’t miss his passionate take on Chenin Blanc and the hidden gems of the region. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! If you want to skip ahead: 4
- podcast· 1h 02m· S5E213
Ep 198: The Premium Canned Wine Revolution with Ben Franks, co-founder of Canned Wine Co
Hello, wine friends! In this episode, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Canned Wine Co., a brand making waves by doing things differently. Instead of the usual bulk production, Canned Wine Co. sources premium single-varietal wines from Europe’s top vineyards, putting quality first. Recently, I had the chance to visit the stunning Loire Valley, where I met winemaker Lionel Gosseaume and tasted his premium Gamay—first from the bottle, then from the can. The incredible part? You could barely tell the difference! I even joined the harvest, witnessing the dedication that goes into each grape, and now I want to share that experience with you. To dig deeper into the art and science of quality wine canning, I’m joined by Ben Franks, co-founder of Canned Wine Co. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour you
- podcast· 26:20· Ep 212
Ep 197: Inside Provence’s Cru Classé: Exploring La Londe and the Art of Wine at Chateau Sainte Marguerite
Welcome back, wine friends! In this episode, we're diving into the heart of Provence with a recap of an incredible visit to Chateau Sainte Marguerite , a prestigious Cru Classé estate in the Côte de Provence. I’ll be sharing insights into Provence’s wine regions, including the lesser-known La Londe appellation, and debunking some common myths, like the idea that grape harvesters are only for mass-produced wines. You’ll also get a taste of the unique sensory experiences offered at the winery and learn more about what makes Cru Classé wines so special in Provence. And, of course, I’ll share some mouth-watering food pairings to complement these exceptional wines. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! If you want to skip ahead: 3.16: The Provence wine region 3.42: The hi
- podcast· 54:54· S5E211
Ep 196: From England to Yarra Valley: Wines & Experiences Worth Traveling For with Olly Smith (Part 2)
Join us for part two of our chat with the brilliant Olly Smith ! You may know him from Saturday Kitchen or the Three Wine Men shows, where he’s won over audiences with his passion for wine and engaging storytelling. In this episode, Olly shares his insights on English wine’s rise to fame, the distinct flavors of Tokaji, and why Australia’s Yarra Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers. Plus, he takes us behind the scenes of working alongside chef José Pizarro on the P&O Food Heroes holidays. Grab a glass and tune in for more wine tales and laughter with Olly! And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! If you want to skip ahead: 03.08: Ollie shares some wine experiences from Tokaj and tasting raw Tokaji in the vineyards 07.58: Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley and unde
- podcast· 51:00· S5E210
Ep 195: Greek wines and good times with Olly Smith (Part 1)
Hello, wine friends! Get ready for a fun-filled episode featuring the one and only Olly Smith —aka Jolly Olly! Known for his contagious enthusiasm on wine TV, Olly joins us for an exciting look into Greek wines. We’ll explore unique grape varieties, up-and-coming wine regions in Greece, and even discover Ollie’s top island to visit. But that’s not all! We’ll also chat about his time on Saturday Kitchen, his surprising food and wine pairings, and his experience hosting his own podcast A Glass With, where he’s interviewed stars like Kylie Minogue and Pink, who both make their own wines. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! If you want to skip ahead: 03.39: Olly’s most crazy wine stories whilst travelling - Santorini hangover cures and Llama attacks 06.58: Olly’s first
- podcast· 51:48· S5E209
Ep 194: Regenerative Viticulture and Premium Bag in Box with Jason Haas of Tablas Creek (Part 2)
Hello, wine friends, and welcome back to part two of our conversation with Jason Haas from Tablas Creek . If you missed last week's episode, be sure to catch up, where Jason enlightened us on some rare Rhône varieties like Counoise and Terret Noir. In this episode, we're diving into a topic that's close to many of our listeners' hearts: sustainability and responsible farming. Tablas Creek became the world's first Regenerative Organic Certified winery in 2020, so Jason is the ideal guest to walk us through soil health, biodiversity in vineyards, and how even sheep and insects play a positive role in the ecosystem. We’ll also explore how to manage pests without synthetic chemicals and the advantages of cover crops. Plus, we’ll be tasting their fantastic 2023 Patelin de Tablas Rosé, now available not just in bottles but also in an eco-friendly bag-in-box format. We’ll chat about the environmental impact of packaging and whether premium wines in boxes could be the future. And a special tha
- podcast· 51:11· S5E208
Ep 193: Rhône Roots: Exploring Châteauneuf Varietals in Paso Robles with Jason Haas of Tablas Creek (Part 1)
In this episode, I sit down with Jason Haas, proprietor of the renowned Tablas Creek Vineyard , a leader in California’s Rhône varietal revolution. Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of Tablas Creek, founded in partnership with the iconic Château de Beaucastel from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France. Jason shares his deep knowledge of the unique characteristics of Rhône varietals that thrive in California’s terroir. Whether you’re a Rhône enthusiast or new to these varietals, this episode offers insights into the grapes behind one of the world’s most revered wine styles. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget to pour yourself something special! Cheers! If you want to skip ahead: 02.23: How the relationship started between Tablas Creek and Château de Beaucastel 07.15: Why choose Paso Robles wine regi
- podcast· 46:00· S5E207
Ep 192: Exploring Spain's Hidden Gems: Castilla y León with Beth Willard (Part 2)
Welcome back, wine friends! In this episode, we continue our fascinating conversation with the brilliant Beth Willard , a highly respected wine writer and co-chair Judge at the Decanter World Wine Awards . Beth's deep knowledge of Spanish wines, combined with her background as a former wine buyer for Laithwaites and her role in the Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino , makes her the perfect guide for our exploration of some of Spain's hidden wine gems. Join us as we journey through the lesser-known wine regions of Castilla y León, uncover indigenous grape varieties that deserve the spotlight, and hear some of Beth’s most humorous and adventurous stories from her travels through Spain’s vineyards. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or new to the world of Spanish wines, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire
- podcast· 50:12· S5E206
Ep 191: Exploring Spain’s Hidden Gems: Bierzo & Txakoli with Beth Willard (Part 1)
Welcome back, wine friends! We're kicking off Season 5 of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat podcast with an exciting episode for all wine lovers and travelers. Join me as I sit down with Beth Willard , a true authority on Spanish wine and one of the co-chairs of the Decanter World Wine Awards. If you're a fan of Decanter Magazine, you'll recognize her work on Spanish wine regions. And today we focus on one of Spain’s slightly lesser know region of Bierzo. Beth takes us through the fascinating world of Mencía grapes, the terroir of Bierzo, and the latest trends shaping this vibrant wine region. But that’s not all—we’ll also dive into the delicious wines from San Sebastián, one of the best regions for foodies, where we discuss the Txakoli wines (often poured from a height). And a special thanks to Coravin , our sponsor for this episode, for giving wine enthusiasts the chance to explore wines one glass at a time without uncorking the entire bottle. Tune in for an inspiring chat, and don't forget
- podcast· 46:06· Ep 205
Ep 190: A Languedoc Wine Getaway: Perfect Itinerary for Four Days
To download the transcript CLICK HERE In this episode, I have just returned from an incredible long weekend in the Languedoc wine region, and I'm thrilled to share all the highlights with you. Whether you're a wine aficionado, a foodie, a nature enthusiast, a hiker, or simply someone seeking peace and tranquility, the Languedoc region has something special to offer. Join me as I recount my adventures across the three captivating sub-regions of Limoux, Corbières, and Minervois. With countless activities and accommodations to choose from, I've done the research and gathered insights from locals to make it super easy for you to plan your own trip. For those who can't make it to the south of France just yet, I’ll be offering valuable tips on which Languedoc wines to look for and why they deserve a spot on your wine rack. We'll delve into the history and significance of the Mauzac grape, explore the world's first-ever sparkling wine, Blanquette de Limoux, and introduce you to two remarkable
- podcast· 53:21· Ep 204
Ep 189: Exploring Dão: Wine Region Insights & the New Wine Book 'How to Drink Wine' with Author and Presenter Tom Surgey (Part 2)
To download the transcript CLICK HERE Hello, wine friends! Welcome back to part two with the incredible wine presenter, Tom Surgey. If you caught part one, you already know why he’s a master at talking about wine. In our previous episode, we delved into the Bairrada wine region, but today, we're shifting our focus just east to the Dão region. Dão, with its higher altitudes and elevations, produces wines that are elegant, perfumed, and full of finesse—perfect for gastronomy. We’ll explore how beautifully Touriga Nacional and the white grape variety Encruzado thrive in this region. Get ready to dive deeper into the Dão wine region and join us as Tom walks us through his new wine book, “How to Drink Wine” (due out 29th August). We’ll focus on the food pairing section, where Tom will share his insights on pairing Dão wines with various dishes. You can pre order it now HERE However, Tom’s book isn’t just about pairings or wine history. It also covers practical topics like restaurant markups
- podcast· 54:51· Ep 203
Ep 188: Exploring Bairrada: Wine Region Insights & the New Wine Book 'How to Drink Wine' with Author and Presenter Tom Surgey (Part 1)
To download the transcript CLICK HERE Welcome back friends! Today, I'm delighted to host one of the UK's most dynamic and energetic wine presenters, Tom Surgey . You might recognize Tom from his work with the Three Wine Men, his regular appearances on ITV's Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh, or even ITV's This Morning. Tom has just returned from an incredible trip to Portugal, and in this episode, we're diving into all things Bairrada. We'll explore the region's sparkling wines, the unique Baga grape, and the standout wineries that make Bairrada so special. But that's not all! Tom will give us a sneak peek into his soon-to-be-released wine book (due out 29th August) You can pre order it now HERE We'll also discuss the annual vine cycle, focusing on the flowering stage currently happening in the Northern Hemisphere. Plus, Tom will share insights on some famous biodynamic wineries you might not know are practicing biodynamics. Stick around until the end as we reveal the correct way