The Chronicle
Angus Ou2019Loughlin
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- Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine PodcastCo Host· podcast
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- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
The Bottle That Outsmarted a Master Sommelier
In this episode of Got Somme, the boys put wine knowledge to the ultimate test with another instalment of the Blind Wine Tasting Series. Carlos goes in blind with only the glass in front of him, breaking down colour, aroma, structure, tannin, alcohol and region clues in real time. What follows is a fascinating look inside the mind of a Master Sommelier as he narrows down possibilities across Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece and France before making his final call. From volatile acidity and jammy red fruit notes to debates around Grenache, Xinomavro and Mediterranean climates, this episode is equal parts education, entertainment and pressure. Then comes the reveal. Did Carlos nail it, or did the wine win? If you love blind tasting, wine education, sommelier reactions or simply watching experts under pressure, this one is for you. In This Episode: - How sommeliers analyse wine blind - Why alcohol, acidity and tannin matter - Carlos rules out Italy, Spain and Portugal - The Greek wine curve
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
$50 vs $150 vs $800 | Burgundy Pinot Noir
What’s the real difference between a $50 bottle of Burgundy and an $800 one ? In this episode of Got Somme, we do a sophisticated tasting with Master Sommelier Carlos Santos to break down three Pinot Noirs from Burgundy at completely different price points. This is not just about taste. It’s about rarity, terroir, production, and whether any of that actually shows up in the glass. We’re putting it to the test: • $50 Burgundy (entry-level) • $150 Village-level wine • $800 Grand Cru (Thanks to the https://frenchwinecentre.com/) And asking the question every wine drinker wants answered:Is expensive wine actually worth it? You’ll learn: - What you’re really paying for in high-end wine - The difference between Bourgogne, Village, and Grand Cru - How sommeliers think about value vs prestige Whether most people can actually taste the differenceIf you’ve ever stood in a bottle shop wondering where your money should go… this episode is for you. Glassware used: RIEDEL 'Performance' Pinot Noir Us
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Blind Wine Tasting Chaos: Pinot Grigio or Did We Completely Miss It?
This starts as a structured blind tasting and slowly turns into a geography exam with wine in the middle. The wine shows clean fruit, floral lift, and chalky minerality. No oak. Medium-plus acidity. Everyone immediately starts narrowing the field like they’re 90% confident. Then the guesses begin: Pinot Grigio feels right. Grüner Veltliner is in the conversation. Verdejo gets a mention. Chablis gets a respectful exclusion. Every option feels correct… until it doesn’t. Eventually, after a few detours through Italy, Spain and Austria, the wine lands exactly where it probably should have all along: Gavi from Italy. Sponsor: RIEDEL https://www.riedel.com/en-au/ (Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off) Key Themes - Blind tasting confidence vs reality - How structured tasting still turns into educated guessing - Old World white wine confusion (in a fun way) - The moment logic meets ego in a glass of wine Even experienced tasters don’t “know” straight
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Single Vineyard vs Estate Wine - Worth double the price?
Why do some wines cost double or triple the price of others, even when they come from the same winery? In this episode of Got Somme , we explore the difference between estate wines and single vineyard wines using two Pinot Noirs from Paringa Estate in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula . Together with Master Sommelier Carlos Santos, we break down the real factors behind wine pricing including terroir, vine age, production size, scarcity and winemaking techniques . We reveal why some bottles command a much higher price and whether the difference is actually worth it in the glass. Sponsor: RIEDEL https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sor... (Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off) Along the way we explore: • What the term estate wine actually means• How single vineyard wines highlight terroir • Why older vines produce more concentrated grapes • The role of oak, ageing and production scale • Why wineries release estate wines earlier• Whether expensive win
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Cab Sav from Bordeaux or Rioja from Spain? Master Somm MUST choose!
What happens when you hand a sommelier a mystery glass and ask them to identify a world-class red wine — completely blind? In this episode of Got Somme , we put the palate to the ultimate test with a stunning Rioja Gran Reserva 2016 that left us speechless (and one of us with actual goosebumps). We got ours here: https://www.platinumfinewine.com.au/product/bodegas-lan-gran-reserva/ From deep ruby colour to lingering pencil-shaving tannins, this wine delivered layer after layer of complexity — black currant, black plum, truffle, leather, clove, nutmeg, star anise, and what our co-host could only describe as fresh pasta flour . The nose alone was worth the price of admission. Was it Bordeaux? Was it Rioja? Tune in as we break down every clue, make the call, and reveal just how well a 10-year-old wine can hide its age. Rioja Gran Reserva 2016 Region: Rioja, Spain Variety: Tempranillo Aging: Gran Reserva (60 months total — 24 months in oak, 24 months in bottle minimum) Oak: French oak (mod
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Burgundy Under $100? Meet Aligoté
Burgundy is home to some of the most expensive wines in the world. Bottles of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti can sell for more than $30,000, yet in this episode of Got Somme we’re tasting a Burgundy white wine for under $100. How is that possible? The answer lies in one of Burgundy’s most underrated grape varieties: Aligoté.In this episode, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos take a deep dive into the forgotten sibling of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. While Burgundy is famous for its iconic Grand Cru wines, Aligoté has quietly existed in the region for centuries, often overlooked despite producing bright, mineral-driven wines with incredible value.Carlos explains why Aligoté is having a quiet renaissance among sommeliers and wine lovers around the world, and why this historic Burgundian grape could be your gateway into Burgundy without the Burgundy price tag.Along the way, we unpack the fascinating history of the grape, how it compares to Chardonnay and Chablis, and the surprising role
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Can Carlos Guess Angus' FAVOURITE wine of ALL TIME!?
Blind wine tasting is brutal. Even for a Master Sommelier. In this episode of Got Somme , Carlos blind tastes a vibrant, medium-ruby red wine and reads the clues as Pinot Noir : juicy cherry, raspberry, Christmas cake spice, fine tannins, elegant structure, and that “Old World on the palate, New World on the nose” tension. But then comes the reveal. It’s actually Gamay from Beechworth, Victoria , a 2024 release , and it happens to be one of Angus’ favourite wines of all time. This is the whole point of blind tasting: you follow the evidence, you make the call, and sometimes the wine still stitches you up. If you’re learning wine, love Pinot Noir, or want to understand how sommeliers think in real time, this one is for you. How to identify red wine blind using colour, aroma, tannin and acid Pinot Noir vs Gamay: the overlap that tricks even pros What “fine-grain tannins” and “perfume” really mean in practice Why some Gamay can present like high-level Pinot Hosted by Angus O’Loughlin and
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
We Risked $1,700 to Answer: Is Expensive Wine Worth It?
We risked $1,700 worth of wine to answer one question: is expensive wine worth it? In this episode of Got Somme, Angus O’Loughlin and Master Somm Carlos Santos open two Grand Cru Burgundies (around $800 a bottle) and taste them side by side. No posturing, no wine snobbery, just an honest test of what you’re paying for when the label gets serious. We talk: - What “Grand Cru” actually means in Burgundy - Why producers matter as much as terroir - The difference between a great $30 bottle and an $800 bottle - Whether expensive wine is “worth it” or just status - How to find underrated regions that deliver insane value BIG thanks to The French Wine Centre for providing the bottles 🙏🏼 https://frenchwinecentre.com/ Check out their AMAZING mixed 6 of French Reds for $250 https://frenchwinecentre.com/collections/packs/products/issue-02-mixed-3-the-reds If you’ve ever wondered whether luxury wine is genuinely better, this is the episode. Comment your next episode idea: Do we go cheaper and fin
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
The White Wine That Fooled a Master Sommelier
Carlos analyses colour, aroma, acidity, texture and structure to identify a mystery white wine. From Albariño to Garganega to Rhône blends and Viognier, the clues stack up… until the reveal throws everything off.Blind tasting is one of the hardest skills in wine. Even for a Master Sommelier.If you love learning wine in a fun, practical way, this series will sharpen your palate and teach you how sommeliers actually think.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN• How sommeliers approach blind wine tasting• Key clues from colour, acidity and aroma• Albariño vs Viognier vs Rhône blends explained• Why light bubbles and texture matter• The biggest mistakes even pros makeRecorded at SESSION in PROGRESS studios in Melbourne.Wine: 'The Story' Marsanne Rousanne Viognier 2020https://www.instagram.com/storywines/WATCH NEXT• Blind Tasting Red Wine Challengehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4jBm8qOfgg&t=7s• Best Value Wines Under $30https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOIUiUNobKw&t=689sSUBSCRIBENew episodes every week.Subscrib
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
We spent over $1,000,000 on wine!
Master Sommelier Carlos Santos goes behind the scenes of building a $1.5 million restaurant wine list for a new Byron Bay venue created by chef Shannon Bennett.From $35,000 magnums to $40 best-selling wines, we break down how sommeliers curate world-class wine lists, negotiate rare allocations, and balance prestige bottles with everyday drinkers. You’ll learn: • How a Master Sommelier builds a wine list from scratch • Why some wines sell more than others • The hardest wines to source in Australia • How trade tastings and supplier relationships work • Why Australian wine is dominating restaurant lists • How price psychology shapes customer ordersIf you love wine, restaurants, or the behind-the-scenes world of hospitality, this episode is for you. Recorded at our new Collins Street studio by SESSION in PROGRESS. SPONSORS Grays.comhttps://www.grays.com/search/wine RIEDEL: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller (Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Chablis Explained: Petit vs Chablis vs Premier Cru
If the world’s best wines from France aren’t using oak… why do so many Chardonnays in Australia and the New World taste so oaky? In this episode of Got Somme, Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos take a deep dive into Chablis, the purest expression of Chardonnay. We blind taste three bottles from the same producer and vintage at three price points — Petit Chablis ($40), Chablis AOC ($48), and Chablis Premier Cru ($78) — to find out whether price really does equal quality. Along the way, we break down: Why Chablis tastes like oyster shells The difference between Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru and Grand Cru Left Bank vs Right Bank of the Serein River When (and why) some producers start using oak The real meaning of minerality in Chablis Whether Premier Cru is actually worth the extra money Angus kicks things off with a blind tasting challenge… and shockingly out-tastes a Master Sommelier to start 2026 in style. If you think you don’t like Chardonnay, this episode migh
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
This Wine Looks Like Rosé, Tastes Italian… But Isn’t either?!
This wine breaks every assumption.It looks like a rosé.It drinks like something from Italy.But it’s neither.In this episode of Got Somme, we put a mystery wine in front of a Master Sommelier for a full blind tasting. No labels. No hints. Just colour, aroma, texture and instinct.Decanter and Glassware: RIEDELhttps://www.riedel.com/en-auUse Code GOTSOMME for 20% off (Australia Only)We break down:Why this wine looks like rosé but isn’tThe flavour markers that suggest Italy (and why they’re misleading)How structure, acid and mouthfeel reveal the truthWhat most people get wrong when tasting blindAnd the final reveal of what this wine actually isIf you love blind wine tastings, sommeliers at work, or learning how to taste wine properly without the snobbery, this one’s for you.Subscribe for more blind tastings, wine myths busted, and deep dives into how great wine really works.#BlindWineTasting #WineTasting #Sommelier #NotRosé #WineEducation #GotSomme #WineBlindTasting #WinePodcastWelcome to
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Why No One Drinks Sherry Anymore (And Why They Should)
New Episode Out Now!
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
This Wine Is So Thick It Pours Like Paste (Fortified Wines Explained)
Fortified wines might be some of the most misunderstood wines in the world — often dismissed as “old-fashioned,” too sweet, or too strong. In this episode of Got Somme, Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos dive deep into the world of Sherry, Port, and Pedro Ximénez, unpacking why these wines deserve far more attention than they get. From the Sherry Triangle in southern Spain to the steep vineyards of the Douro Valley in Portugal, Carlos breaks down how fortified wines are made, why they’re aged the way they are, and how styles like Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso, Tawny Port, Ruby Port, LBV, and Vintage Port all differ. Along the way, Angus shares a deeply personal memory of secretly drinking his grandmother’s sherry after school, while Carlos explains how some fortified wines can literally be hundreds of years old, growing thicker, darker, and more concentrated over generations. They also tackle the big question: Why did fortified w
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Master Somm tries a CLEANSKIN for the FIRST TIME EVER!
For the first time in Got Somme history, Angus is using a spittoon. For the first time ever our Master Somm is tasting clean skin wine . In this episode, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos put six $5 clean skin wines under the microscope to answer a question we get asked all the time: Are clean skin wines actually drinkable, or are they only good for cooking? With six bottles on the table, including Sauvignon Blanc, two Chardonnays, Rosé and Shiraz, Carlos gives an honest, no-nonsense assessment of what’s worth drinking, what’s best kept for the kitchen, and what should probably go straight down the sink. What Is a Clean Skin Wine? Clean skin wines are bottles sold without a branded label. Often they are the result of: Oversupply from wineries Wines not making the cut for a producer’s main label Brand changes or ownership transitions Excess wine needing to be cleared quickly In some cases, these wines may even come from large, well-known producers who sim
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
The BEST Wine of 2025: A Master Sommelier’s Top Pick
In the final episode of Got Somme for 2025, Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos reflect on the year that was through the wines that defined it. Rather than revisiting bottles already featured on the podcast, Carlos reveals a personal Wine of the Year driven by memory, place and emotion. A Champagne enjoyed on a beach at sunset, oysters and lobster on hand, and a moment that perfectly captured why wine is never just about what is in the glass. Angus counters with his own standout wine of the year, an Australian Semillon that completely exceeded expectations and cut through a line-up of elite wines to steal the show. Along the way, they dive deep into Champagne ageing, Blanc de Blancs versus Brut styles, the importance of time on lees, the underrated ageing power of Australian Semillon, and why context and connection matter more than price tags. The episode also marks the end of an enormous year for Got Somme, celebrating huge audience growth and setting the stage f
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Barolo vs Barbaresco: Which One Should You Actually Buy?
In this episode of Got Somme , Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos take you into one of Italy’s most iconic wine rivalries: Barolo vs Barbaresco . We break down everything from grape variety , regional differences , aging laws , price , aromas , palate structure , and why—despite their similarities—one of these wines consistently demands 30 to 40 percent more at retail. And yes… we revisit the infamous first attempt at this episode, where a $500 bottle of Barolo turned out to be faulty . Cork taint. Wet cardboard. Pain. Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAmb5p34Q-I&t=20s If you’ve ever wondered: – Why is Barolo more expensive? – Can you actually tell them apart in a blind tasting? – What aromas define Nebbiolo? – Which wine should YOU be buying? …this is your episode. Watch Carlos Blind Taste this Barolo before we recorded the episode here: https://www.youtube.com/wat
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
LOVE Pinot Noir but not ready for Shiraz? TRY THIS WINE!
In this episode, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos dive into Mencia , a red grape variety from the northwest of Spain that sits beautifully between Pinot Noir, Gamay and Syrah. If you love Pinot but want something a little richer, or you are looking for a gateway into bolder reds, Mencia might be your new favourite varietal. Carlos breaks down the regions of Bierzo and Galicia, how altitude and maritime influence shape the wine, and why Mencia has become a quiet favourite among sommeliers. Angus approaches the wine blind and shares how he assesses the colour, nose and palate as a novice working on his tasting skills. Perfect for wine lovers who want to expand beyond the usual Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet. Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller (Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off) Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Key Talkin
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Understanding Champagne Labels — RM vs NM
When you pick up a bottle of champagne, do you know what the letters RM or NM mean? In this episode of Got Somme , Carlos breaks down the codes behind the label and why they completely change the flavour, quality, and story inside your glass. From grower champagnes to the big houses like Krug, Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot, we explore what makes one bottle taste unique while another stays consistent year after year. Carlos and Angus taste through five different styles — including Brut Nature , Rosé de Saignée , Grand Cru , and Vintage Champagne — explaining how sugar levels, vineyard ownership, and blending practices shape each glass. Whether you’re a champagne lover, a curious drinker, or just want to sound like you know your stuff next time you’re at the bar, this episode is for you. Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller (Use code: GOTSOMME at check out for 20% off) Grays.com Buy the wine,
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
ONE Ingredient a Master Somm claims pairs with EVERY wine!
Master Sommelier Carlos Santos uncovers the surprising versatility of this one food that pairs beautifully with wine. Cooking the same ingredient three ways, Carlos shares expert advice on which wines—from Champagne to Riesling and Sherry—best compliment each preparation. Dive into the fundamentals of food and wine pairing, learn how to consider flavour intensity, and discover why creativity matters in pairing dishes with wines. This episode also highlights why this food goes beyond breakfast, proving their culinary potential at any meal. Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller (Use code: GOTSOMME at check out for 20% off) Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Key Takeaways A single ingredient can transform your wine pairing choices. The most versatile foods for wine pairing. Spicy dishes can make wine pairing more challenging. Scrambled eggs pair beautifully with Champagne.
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
The SAME wine 20 years APART!
In this episode of Got Somme , Carlos and Angus explore the fascinating world of aged wine by tasting two vintages of the Clonakilla Shiraz Viognier — one from 2002 and another from 2022 . Together, we uncover how time transforms wine, from its colour and aroma to its structure and flavour. We dive into the importance of wine closures , the art of decanting older bottles , and how visual differences like hue and clarity can reveal a wine’s journey. Through this side-by-side tasting, we reveal how aging develops complexity , showcasing the elegance of well-crafted Shiraz Viognier over two decades. Beyond tasting notes, we'll reflect on their personal connection to the Clonakilla label and its place in the history of Got Somme . Whether you’re a casual drinker or a dedicated collector, this episode celebrates the beauty of aged Australian wine and the passage of time in every bottle. Key Takeaways Aged wine offers a unique journey through time . Closures play a major ro
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Wine of the Year?! Master Sommelier reviews Hallidays Top Pick in 2025
Is this really Australia’s best wine ? The 2024 Thistledown “Charming Man” Single Vineyard Old Vine Grenache has just been awarded Wine of the Year, Red Wine of the Year, and Grenache of the Year at the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion Awards . In this episode of Got Somme , Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos taste and review the $95 Grenache to see if it lives up to the hype. You’ll hear from winemaker Giles Cook MW on what makes this single vineyard McLaren Vale Grenache so special, plus Carlos breaks down how to assess Grenache vs Pinot Noir on colour, nose, palate, and ageing potential. We tackle the “Poor Man’s Pinot” debate, explore the history of Grenache in Australia (Barossa & McLaren Vale old vines), and ask: is this wine really worth $95—or more than $300 on a restaurant wine list? Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine wh
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Sorrenberg vs The Rest | 12 Aussie Gamays Blind Tasted
The Wine That Changed My Life: Blind Tasting 12 Australian Gamays What happens when you put Australia’s best Gamay producers head-to-head in a blind tasting? In this episode, host Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos sit down with 12 bottles, including cult favourite Sorrenberg Gamay , to uncover which Australian Gamay truly stands out. From Geelong to Gippsland, Beechworth to the Adelaide Hills , we pour, swirl, and sip our way through an extraordinary lineup that showcases the diversity, vibrancy, and rising reputation of Gamay in Australia. In This Episode: The story of the 2019 Sorenberg Gamay – the wine that changed Angus’s life Blind tasting 12 Australian Gamays side by side How terroir, whole bunch fermentation, oak, and acidity play into style and balance The difference between approachable, fruit-driven Gamay vs. high-end, complex bottlings Which Gamays deliver value under $40 – and which bottles justify $80+ Featured Wi
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Wine from Kazakstan "Very Nice" | Listener brings in CRAZY wine
"Wa wa wee wa" In this episode of Got Somme, our hosts take you on a journey through two fascinating and lesser-known wine regions: Kazakhstan and Georgia. Featuring a listener’s selection of bottles, we explore the unexpected elegance of a Kazakhstan Pinot Noir and the bold character of a Georgian Saperavi. Along the way, we'll discuss tasting notes, cultural traditions, and winemaking techniques that set these regions apart. Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme Key Takeaways Kazakhstan wines can surprise with unique flavours and quality. Listener participation makes wine discovery more engaging. Dr. Meyer stands out for low-intervention winemaking. Comparing regions reveals striking differences in style and character.
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
78% of people didn't know Syrah is Shiraz | Rhone Valley Masterclass
Discover how one grape tells two stories. Rhône Valley Syrah meets Heathcote Shiraz in a tasting that uncorks terroir, trends, and label politics. Syrah and Shiraz share identical genetics yet walk very different cultural paths. In this episode of Got Somme , we taste benchmark bottles from France’s Rhône Valley alongside Heathcote, Victoria, to reveal how soil, climate, and marketing shape each wine’s personality. You'll learn why cooler-climate Australian producers are embracing the term “Syrah", how Cambrian soil defines Heathcote Shiraz, and what these trends mean for Australia’s export future. We alos want to know your thoughts on what defines labelling Syrah on Australian bottles? Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: RIEDEL Superleggero Hermitage/Syrah https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/hermitage-syrah-642500041 Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Socials:
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
"What the f***" | Master Sommeliers take on Natural Wine
"N atural wine" words strong enough to make a Somms knees weak. The low-intervention style that's gaining traction across wine bars, bottle shops, and dinner tables globally. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a curious sipper, this episode offers insights into the natural wine movement , its differences from organic wine , and why pet-nats (pétillant naturels) are popping up on every trendy wine list. Master Sommelier Carlos Santos unpacks key elements of natural winemaking, the certifications (or lack thereof), and why taste profiles can be wildly different from conventional wines. They share firsthand experiences from the wine industry, discuss how terroir and fermentation practices influence flavour, and answer audience questions about pairing and building inclusive wine lists. Whether you're researching what natural wine means , how it’s made, or just looking to better understand organic vs natural wine , this episode is a go-to resource. So use your ro
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
2 Champagnes that BEAT Veuve & Moët for the SAME Price
In this episode of Got Somme , hosts Angus O’Loughlin and Carlos Santos dive into the world of champagne , putting the spotlight on two iconic but often overlooked labels: Piper Heidsieck and Bollinger . From sustainability in champagne production to the bold taste of oak-aged wines, this episode is packed with insights that go beyond the bottle. Whether you’re stocking up for an event, planning a wine tasting , or just want better bang-for-buck than Moët & Veuve , this is the wine podcast episode for you. Sponsors: RIEDEL Superleggero Champagne Wine Glass: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/champagne-wine-glass-642500028 Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme 🍾 Key Takeaways: Champagne isn't just for midnight toasts — it's a drink for any time of day. Piper
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Napa Valley | Master Sommeliers Top Wines from California
In this episode of Got Somme, we journey through the rolling hills of Napa Valley to explore the world of Diamond Creek wines. Your hosts Angus and Carlos uncork the history and flavour profile of aged Cabernet Sauvignon, sip through the 1995 and 1996 vintages, and dissect how Napa’s unique terroir stacks up against global giants like Bordeaux and Margaret River. From wine economics to the Paris Judgment of 1976, this one’s a full-bodied conversation about what makes Napa, and California more broadly, central to wine education and the sommelier world. Sponsors: RIEDEL Veritas Cabernet: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/veritas/cabernet-merlot-644900098 Decanter: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/decanter/amadeo-phyllon-decanter-175600P13 Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme 🍇 Key Takeaways The
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
Unveiling the 2023 Vintage: Standish Wine Company
In this episode, we dive into the highly anticipated 2023 vintage of The Standish Wine Company's four Shiraz from the iconic Barossa Valley. Through a blind tasting of each unique wines, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos explore complex flavour profiles, winemaking techniques, and personal preferences. Alongside tasting notes, the conversation delves into the sustainability practices within the wine industry, offers wine pairing suggestions, and answers audience questions about aging potential and sommelier recommendations. Wine #1 - Single Vineyard Shiraz Wine #2 - Schubert Theorem Wine #3 - Lamella Wine #4 - Relic Can it live up to the 2022 '100 point' wine score? Sponsors: RIEDEL Wine Glasses: RIEDEL Superleggero Hermitage/Syrah https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/hermitage-syrah-642500041 GRAYS.COM Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gots
- podcast· Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast
The Truth: How Bottle Size Impacts Wine Aging (Same Vintage, Same Producer)
In this episode of the podcast, hosts Angus O'Loughlin and M aster Sommelier Carlos Santos are here to demystify the impact of wine bottle sizes —particularly the demi bottle (375ml) versus the standard bottle (750ml) —on the aging process , wine quality , and flavour profile . They conduct a blind tasting of the 2005 Lake's Folly Cabernet Sauvignon , uncovering how smaller bottles age differently and why larger bottles may enhance longevity . Carlos also shares practical insights for wine tasting , restaurant selections , and solo drinking . Plus, stay tuned for an important announcement about the show’s new release schedule . Sponsors: - RIEDEL Veritas Cabernet: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/veritas/cabernet-merlot-644900098 - Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine Socials: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme BIG Thanks to: