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videoEp. 2786 A Journey into Italian Biodynamic Wine with Stefania Pepe and Artem Lebedev IWA | Clubho...
Welcome to Clubhouse Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2786 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Artem Lebedev IWA is in conversation with Stefania Pepe. Stefania shares her lifelong connection to wine and her journey from working alongside her father in the vineyards to establishing her own azienda agricola. She discusses her philosophy of biodynamic winemaking, traditional methods and the dedication behind creating authentic, artisanal wines. These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. More about today’s host: Artem Lebedev is an international wine specialist and communicator (DipWSET, DipASI), with over a decade of experience in wine education and events. A VIA Italian Wine Ambassador, he is a judge for top competitions like Mundus Vini and 5StarWines and a speaker at global forums such as Wine2Wine. As the founder and first president of the Kazakhstan Sommelier Association, Artem has been a trailblazer in
videoEp. 2785 From Volunteer to Speaker at TEXSOM with Samantha Cole Johnson | TEXSOM 2026
Welcome back to TEXSOM 2026 and Episode 2785 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Jessica Dupuy interviews wine journalist, educator and sommelier, Samantha Cole Johnson DipWSET. In this conversation, Samantha traces her path through the wine trade, from waitress to sommelier at some of the industry's most prestigious wine bars and restaurants, through five harvests, before falling in love with the education and journalism side of the business. She now writes for JancisRobinson.com. Samantha also reflects on TEXSOM itself: she first came as a volunteer, and says that while the masterclasses and lectures are extraordinary, the knowledge held by everyone at the event, including the service staff, might be the best part of all. The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a Media Partner of TEXSOM for the third year in a row, supporting one of the most influential wine events in North America. Join us at TEXSOM 2026 as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top
videoItalian Wine Pilgrimage: 3 Ways to Follow the Journey 🍷🇮🇹
25 episodes, one journey through Italian wine. 🇮🇹🍷 The Italian Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza and Stevie Kim has come to an end, but there are still three ways to follow the entire journey: 🎧 Listen to the series on the Italian Wine Podcast ▶️ Watch it on YouTube 📖 Discover the story in An Italian Wine Pilgrimage (available on Amazon) Richard Hough takes us through all three ways to revisit the series and travel through Italy, from north to south, alongside Stevie and Professor Scienza. Whether you listened, watched, or read along, which part of the journey stayed with you the most?
videoEp. 2784 The Other Side of Valpolicella: Volcanic Soils & Sparkling Wines with Francesca Marcato ...
What happens when volcanic soils meet the classic wines of Valpolicella? Welcome to episode 2784 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 261 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc is joined by Francesca Marcato to explore Valpolicella through its wines, landscapes, food, and fascinating local stories. Together, they explore the heart of the region, discovering what makes Valpolicella unique, including the volcanic soils surrounding Francesca’s winery, a distinctive feature that sets this part of the area apart. Francesca also shares the story of the winery and its connections to the neighbouring wine territories of Lessini and Soave. From the classic wines that have made Valpolicella famous to a more unexpected discovery of sparkling wines made from grapes traditionally associated with the region, this episode reveals a playful and surprising side of Valpolicella. And, of course, no journey through Italian wine is complete without food. Marc and Fran
videoEp. 2783 The Suburban Gold Mine: Insights into New Jersey’s Wine Market with Brittney Abell | Mas...
Is New Jersey the untapped gold mine for Italian wine? In episode 2783, Marissa Muoio is joined by Brittney Abell to explore New Jersey’s wine market and the opportunities hiding within its affluent suburban retail and dining scene. Together, they unpack what makes the New Jersey consumer unique, why the state represents an important opportunity for Italian wine producers, and how brands can communicate more effectively with consumers who may be curious about wine but are often looking for familiar entry points. From organic and biodynamic practices to the importance of simplifying complex wine terminology, Brittney shares practical insights into how producers and wine professionals can make Italian wine more approachable, while building narratives that resonate with the American consumer. What makes New Jersey a “Suburban Gold Mine”? New Jersey’s affluent suburban communities offer a compelling mix of retail, dining, and wine consumers and understanding how to reach the
videoIn Vino Veritas with Professor Scienza: True or False?
🇮🇹 Il vino fa venire mal di testa per colpa dei solfiti? 🍷🤕
videoEp. 2782 Ep. 13: Germany and Alsace | Study Smart for your WSET Level 3
Welcome to Episode 13 of Study Smart and Episode 2782 of the Italian Wine Podcast with Gill Gordon Smith. Ep. 13: Germany and Alsace Study Smart for your WSET Level 3 is a new series of audio learning resources specifically created for wine students. This new series consists of 30 episodes, each focusing on a particular wine region, with the objective of equipping listeners with the knowledge and expertise they need to prepare for industry-standard courses such as WSET. With exam strategies and techniques also included, the "Study Smart" series is designed to help wine students achieve their learning objectives in an accessible and engaging way. This new series has been designed in partnership with the Italian Wine Academy (https://italianwineacademy.org/) , a Verona-based, internationally recognized wine school founded in 2017 that provides WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certification courses and specialized training. The series is delivered by the acclaimed win
videoColleMassari: a long-term vision rooted in Montecucco
In this On The Road Special Edition, we head to ColleMassari in Montecucco to explore the ideas that shape the estate: a long-term vision for the land, century-old Sangiovese, a vineyard-by-vineyard approach to winemaking, and the people of Montecucco. Giuseppe Di Gioia, Chief Executive Officer at ColleMassari, introduces the vision behind the estate: an “agricultural oasis” built on the balance between farming, people and a long-term commitment to the territory. Giuliano Guerrini, Agronomist at ColleMassari, takes us to Poggio Lombrone, the oldest vineyard in the Montecucco DOC, explaining the importance of its century-old Sangiovese and how its genetic diversity helps the vines adapt to the challenges of a changing climate. Giovanni Puccioni, Winemaker at ColleMassari, brings us into the wines of ColleMassari, from Poggio Lombrone to ColleMassari Riserva, Irisse and Melacce, sharing an approach that gives value to each individual vineyard and respects what the land provides. Toge
videoEp. 2781 China’s Wine Market: From Misleading Import Numbers to Today’s Consumer with Fongyee Wal...
Welcome to the Asia Wine Market and Episode 2781 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Roza Zharmukhambetova is once again in conversation with China-based wine educator and consultant Fongyee Walker MW. In Part 2, the conversation explores the evolving role of wine education in China, from the changing motivations of wine learners to the growing influence of digital platforms and social commerce. Fongyee also shares her insights into wine pairing with Chinese cuisine, communicating wine heritage and regional identity to Chinese consumers, and building sustainable, long-term wine brands in the Chinese market. Key Takeaways: • Understand Market Realities: Track how the Chinese wine market has transformed over the past two decades and where true growth opportunities lie today. • Decode Consumer & Culinary Psychology: Learn how Chinese wine lovers actually think about wine, wine education, premiumization, and family-style food pairing
videoEp. 2780 The Bridge between the Past and the Future of Wine with Serena Costanzo from Palmento Co...
Welcome to Clubhouse Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2780 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Alberto Rivera IWA is in conversation with Serena Costanzo from the Palmento Costanzo winery on the northern slope of Mount Etna. The conversation explores the vineyard's use of the traditional Alberello Etneo training system, the restoration of the estate’s 18th-century lava stone Palmento, and the local native varieties used to produce authentic Etna DOC wines. These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. More about today’s host: Alberto Rivera began his wine journey after serving as a diplomat at the Mexican Embassy in Japan. He later developed a private wine collection and hosted exclusive tastings before becoming Italian Wine Director for a Latin American online platform, where he educated wine professionals on Italian wine and culture. In 2024, Alberto earned the title of Italian Wine Ambassador through the Vini
videoVocation and Autochthony: the two guiding words of our entire journey
A final takeaway to bring the whole series together... TAKEAWAY #3 is about what makes a place truly suited to a vine? And what makes a vine truly belong to that place? For Richard Hough, the answer comes down to two words: Vocation and Autochthony — the two guiding words of our entire journey through Professor Attilio Scienza’s book. 🎬 Watch the full video on YouTube and discover Richard’s 3 key takeaways: ▶️https://loom.ly/J1AxgIs 🎧 And if you missed the journey, listen back to the full series on the Italian Wine Podcast.
videoEp. 2779 The State of Wine Sales in the U.S.: First-Hand Insights from a Wine Retailer with Debbi...
Welcome back to TEXSOM 2026 and Episode 2779 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Jessica Dupuy interviews the renowned wine judge, educator and sommelier, Debbie Zachareas. In this conversation, Debbie provides a fresh perspective on fine wine retailing, drawing on her 23-year experience at San Francisco’s Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant, as well as exploring trends currently affecting the local and global wine trade. The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a Media Partner of TEXSOM for the third year in a row, supporting one of the most influential wine events in North America. Join us at TEXSOM 2026 as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top writers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals at this highly influential wine event. In this special series, Jessica will delve into the experiences and insights of key attendees, exploring career paths, challenges, and the latest trends in the wine industry. More about today’s guest: Debbie Za
videoEp. 2778 Bread of the Sea: The Story of the Anchovy with Sudi Pigott | Wine, Food & Travel with M...
Welcome to episode 2778 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 259 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc is joined by the renowned food, travel and restaurant writer Sudi Pigott. Together, they discuss Sudi’s latest book, “Consider the Anchovy: A journey in pursuit of the little fish with the big flavour” and explore the fascinating world of anchovies—from their history with the Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans to their enduring place in Italian cuisine. They travel through Liguria and Piedmont, where anchovies were once known as the “Bread of the Sea,” as well as the Amalfi Coast, Salento, Lazio, and Sicily. Along the way, they explore traditional recipes, terroir, and the cultural stories behind this small but extraordinary fish. More about today’s guest: Sudi Pigott is one of the UK's most respected voices in food and travel writing with nearly 30 years experience in print and digital journalism. Her work spans restaurant criticism, culinary
videoEp. 2777 VIA Advanced Tasting Sessions with Sarah Heller MW | Masterclass US Wine Market
Want to improve your advanced wine knowledge? In Episode 2777 of the Italian Wine Podcast Barbara Fitzgerald is in conversation with the internationally renowned wine educator and consultant, Sarah Heller MW. In this conversation, Sarah provides insight into the VIA Advanced seminars and this year’s theme of defining quality in Italian wine, while discussing the value of advanced tasting, continued education, and the importance of staying curious and learning throughout a wine career—even after achieving the MW. What is the Vinitaly International Academy (VIA)? The Vinitaly International Academy is a leading wine education institution in Verona that trains wine professionals to master the complex diversity of Italian wines. Key Takeaways: • What VIA Advanced Tasting Sessions are, who they are for, and why they matter. • How we define and recognise quality in Italian wine. • Why wine education shouldn’t stop after
videoEp. 2776 Ep. 12: Loire Valley | Study Smart for your WSET Level 3
Welcome to Episode 12 of Study Smart and Episode 2776 of the Italian Wine Podcast with Gill Gordon Smith. Ep. 12: Loire Valley Study Smart for your WSET Level 3 is a new series of audio learning resources specifically created for wine students. This new series consists of 30 episodes, each focusing on a particular wine region, with the objective of equipping listeners with the knowledge and expertise they need to prepare for industry-standard courses such as WSET. With exam strategies and techniques also included, the "Study Smart" series is designed to help wine students achieve their learning objectives in an accessible and engaging way. This new series has been designed in partnership with the Italian Wine Academy (https://italianwineacademy.org/) , a Verona-based, internationally recognized wine school founded in 2017 that provides WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certification courses and specialized training. The series is delivered by the acclaimed wine educ
videoIn Vino Veritas with Professor Scienza: True or False?
🇮🇹 Ci erano mancate le lezioni di vino del Professor Scienza. “In Vino Veritas” è tornato! 🍷👨🏫 Vino rosso solo con la carne e vino bianco solo con il pesce? Falso. 🛑 Il Professor Scienza ci spiega perché questa classica regola di abbinamento non è poi così assoluta. 🧐
videoEp. 2775 Between Reality and Imagination: A Metaphor for Wine Growing Landscape | The Art of Wine...
Welcome to Episode 2675 and Episode 11 of The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson. Episode 11: Between Reality and Imagination: A Metaphor for Wine Growing Landscape. In this episode, Ryan Robinson explores how we tell the story of wine through autochthony, geography, and landscape. We reconsider the meaning of autochthony, explore the local identities shaping Italian wine and their relationship with the wider world, and look at the wine-growing landscape as more than physical space—a place shaped by symbolism, stories, and people. How can we talk about wine more thoughtfully and turn knowledge into meaningful ideas? The future belongs to those who can create compelling, human stories. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by ce
videoEp. 2774 Mastering Wine Exams: Preparation, Pressure & the MW Journey with Chris Martin MW | TEXS...
Welcome to Episode 2774 of the Italian Wine Podcast in which Jessica Dupuy interviews Chris Martin MW at TEXSOM 2026. Chris is Director of Education at the Wine Scholar Guild. He judges regularly in international wine competitions, hosts masterclasses at trade shows and teaches regularly. In this episode, Jessica and Chris discuss his MW journey, the realities of preparing for demanding wine exams, and how to manage pressure and tension on exam day. They also reflect on the role of TEXSOM in wine education and professional development. The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a Media Partner of TEXSOM for the third year in a row, supporting one of the most influential wine events in North America. Join us at TEXSOM 2026 as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top writers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals at this highly influential wine event. In this special series, Jessica will delve into the experiences and insights of key attendees, exploring
videoEp. 2773 Trento DOC: one of Italy’s finest sparkling wines with Alessandra Caroni of Maso Martis ...
Welcome to episode 2773 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 258 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc is joined by Alessandra Caroni, Export Manager at Maso Martis, to explore the unique identity of Trento DOC and one of Italy’s leading sparkling wine producers. Together, they explore what makes Trento DOC one of Italy’s most distinctive sparkling wine regions, the story of Maso Martis, and how climate change is reshaping vineyard practices. They also discuss the importance of the traditional Pergola Trentina training system, the winery’s work with Pinot Meunier, including rare 100% Pinot Meunier sparkling wines, and the rich gastronomic traditions of Trentino, from salmerino and Trentingrana to the region’s mountain food culture. More about today’s guest: Alessandra Caroni is an Italian AIS-certified Sommelier, export and sales manager, and wine writer who specializes in boutique and organic Italian wine estates. She is the founder of Winesou
videoEp. 2772 A Surprising Partnership between Japanese Sake & Italian Wine with Monica Samuels | Mast...
Welcome to Episode 2772 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Juliana Colangelo is in conversation with Monica Samuels, President of Kome Collective, a leading U.S. importer of Japanese sake and spirits. Together, they explore the fascinating intersection of Japanese sake and Italian wine, discussing why Japanese restaurants have become one of the strongest markets for premium Italian wines in the United States. Key Takeaways: • Why Japanese restaurants have become one of the strongest accounts for premium italian wines in the US. • How wine & sake compliment rather than compete with one another. • What Italian wineries can learn from the Japanese hospitality and beverage industry. More about the guest: Monica is the President of Kome Collective, a leading US importer of Japanese sake and spirits. Monica spent many of her formative years in Tokyo with her grandfather, formerly a sake brewer, a
videoEp. 2771 Ep. 11: Dordogne & South West France | Study Smart for your WSET Level 3
Welcome to Episode 11 of Study Smart and Episode 2771 of the Italian Wine Podcast with Gill Gordon Smith. Ep. 11: Dordogne & South West France Study Smart for your WSET Level 3 is a new series of audio learning resources specifically created for wine students. This new series consists of 30 episodes, each focusing on a particular wine region, with the objective of equipping listeners with the knowledge and expertise they need to prepare for industry-standard courses such as WSET. With exam strategies and techniques also included, the "Study Smart" series is designed to help wine students achieve their learning objectives in an accessible and engaging way. This new series has been designed in partnership with the Italian Wine Academy (https://italianwineacademy.org/) , a Verona-based, internationally recognized wine school founded in 2017 that provides WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certification courses and specialized training. The series is delivered by the acc
videoWine Without the Snobbery: A Heart-to-Heart with Sarah Looper
Somewhere between New York traffic, wine stories and absolutely no room for snobbery, Stevie Kim and Sarah Looper, founder of LooperSomm, at down for a heart-to-heart worth watching from start to finish on YouTube. 🎙️🍷🗽
videoEp. 2770 China’s Wine Market: From Misleading Import Numbers to Today’s Consumer with Fongyee Wal...
Welcome to the Asia Wine Market and Episode 2770 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Roza Zharmukhambetova is in conversation with China-based wine educator and consultant Fongyee Walker MW. In Part 1, they explore the evolution of the Chinese wine market from the 1990s to today, examining the gap between import statistics and actual consumption, the impact of the post-COVID slowdown, and the shift from Tier 1 cities to emerging opportunities in Tier 2 and 3 markets. They also discuss how Chinese wine consumers have become more knowledgeable and selective, and what the next five to ten years may hold for imported wines in China. Key Takeaways: • Understand Market Realities: Track how the Chinese wine market has transformed over the past two decades and where true growth opportunities lie today. • Decode Consumer & Culinary Psychology: Learn how Chinese wine lovers actually think about wine, wine education, premiumization, and fam
videoVines don’t have legs – people do!
The journey through Professor Attilio Scienza’s book may be over… but Richard still has a few takeaways for us. 👀🍷 In our latest YouTube video, Richard Hough looks back at the series and shares 3 takeaways worth remembering.☝🏼 🎬 Watch the full video on YouTube to discover all 3 takeaways.