The Chronicle
Janina Doyle
Source
- EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcastHost· podcast
Recent
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 279 – Biodynamic Wine Explained: Olivier Humbrecht MW of Zind-Humbrecht
What actually happens in a biodynamic vineyard — and can it change the wine in your glass? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina travels to Alsace to meet Olivier Humbrecht MW , the acclaimed winemaker behind Domaine Zind-Humbrecht , to explore the science, philosophy and practical realities of biodynamic viticulture. Olivier's journey into biodynamics began with a surprisingly simple question: how could he produce healthier compost? What followed — including a discovery involving contaminated manure, an Amish farmer and a striking experiment with soil bacteria — transformed the way he understood soil, vines and the vineyard ecosystem. Olivier takes us far beyond the basics, explaining biodynamic preparations 500 and 501, herbal teas, root development and the thinking behind this distinctive approach to vineyard management. But what does all this mean for the wine itself? Olivier explains how biodynamic farming may influence vine development, physiological ripeness and picki
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 278 - Oceanic Wine Explained: Can You Taste the Sea? with Chris Howard
Can You Taste the Sea? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina dives into the fascinating and potentially controversial idea of Oceanic Wine with wine writer, judge and educator Chris Howard . Chris has proposed that oceanic wine should be considered a category in its own right, exploring what happens when the sea becomes one of the dominant forces shaping a vineyard and the wine in your glass. But what actually makes a wine oceanic rather than simply coastal? Chris explains why proximity alone isn't enough, and how wind, fog, salt, temperature, exposure and geography can all influence vineyards in very different ways. From California's Sonoma Coast and coastal Chile to Tasmania, Margaret River, South Africa and New Zealand, this episode explores Wine Regions where the ocean may play a defining role. The conversation also asks one of the most intriguing questions in Wine Education: when tasters describe salinity, iodine, oyster shell or sea spray, are we genuinely tasting the
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 277 - Why Are Some Wines Worth Millions? Inside Sotheby’s Wine Auctions with Nick Pegna
What makes a bottle of wine worth £10,000, £100,000 or even millions? Is it the vineyard, the vintage, the producer, its rarity or the extraordinary story behind it? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina steps inside the fascinating world of fine wine auctions with Nick Pegna , Global Head of Wine & Spirits at Sotheby’s . From multi-million-pound private collections and rare bottles to intense bidding wars, Nick reveals what really happens behind the scenes of the international wine auction market - and what makes a wine truly valuable. Whether you're a wine enthusiast wanting to deepen your wine knowledge, fascinated by the world's most prestigious wine regions, or simply curious about the people willing to pay extraordinary sums for a bottle, this conversation offers a rare insight into the world of fine wine collecting. We explore how provenance, condition, rarity and maturity influence wine prices, why collectors are increasingly seeking mature wines that are ready to dr
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 276 - Ken Forrester: The King of Chenin Blanc & the Wild Side of South African Wine
Season 7 of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat begins in South Africa with one of the wine world's biggest personalities: Ken Forrester . Known as the “King of Chenin Blanc”, Ken joins Janina for a conversation filled with extraordinary stories, pioneering winemaking and plenty of laughter, while exploring what has made Stellenbosch one of the world's most exciting Wine Regions. Ken explains why this grape has thrived in South Africa and how decades of experimentation have produced wines ranging from vibrant traditional-method sparkling wine to the iconic FMC and the extraordinarily complex The Dirty Little Secret. For anyone looking to learn about wine through the stories of the people actually making it, this is wine education at its most entertaining. Ken also shares the story of planting Mourvèdre in South Africa, why he believes Pinotage should be celebrated as a fresh, juicy and even chillable red, and how Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre come together in his Three Halves blend. Along the way, J
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 275 - Spanish Wine Beyond Rioja: Vino de Pago, New Jerez, Bobal & More with Sarah Jane Evans MW
What are the Spanish wine regions and grape varieties you need to know beyond Rioja and Ribera del Duero? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to Spain with Sarah Jane Evans MW , one of the world's leading experts on Spanish wine, to explore the regions, grapes and wine classifications that deserve far more attention - from Jerez and Castilla-La Mancha to Valencia, Madrid and Extremadura. At the heart of the conversation is Vino de Pago, one of Spain's most fascinating and misunderstood wine classifications. Sarah Jane explains what Vino de Pago actually means, how it differs from Spain's traditional regional classifications and why these individual estates have the freedom to explore distinctive terroirs, indigenous grape varieties and different winemaking styles. We also explore some of Spain's lesser-known grape varieties, including Merseguera, Albillo Real, Bobal and old-vine Monastrell, as well as the country's extraordinary heritage of old vineyards. Sarah Jane
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 274 - What Does It Take to Become a Top Sommelier? Inside the UK Sommelier of the Year Competition with Emma Denney, 2026 Winner
What does it actually take to become the UK Sommelier of the Year? And how do the world's best sommeliers blind taste wine under pressure? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina sits down with Emma Denney , the newly crowned UK Sommelier of the Year 2026 and Director of Wine at Claridge's , to go behind the scenes of elite sommelier competition, blind tasting and fine wine service. Emma takes us inside the competition - from identifying grape varieties, regions and vintages in a blind tasting, to recognising wine faults by aroma alone, tackling food and wine pairing and serving Champagne under pressure. She also explains how professional sommeliers build their tasting knowledge, read the clues in a glass and develop the confidence to make decisions quickly. But this isn't just an episode about becoming a sommelier. Emma is a brilliant guide to some of the wine world's most fascinating regions and producers. We dive into Champagne and grower Champagne, Northern Rhône Syrah and
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 273 – Oregon Wine Beyond Pinot Noir: The Regions, Grapes & Wines You Need to Know with Samantha Cole-Johnson
Think Oregon is all about Pinot Noir? Think again. In this episode I'm joined by Samantha Cole-Johnson , Senior US Editor at JancisRobinson.com and the Master of Wine student who achieved the highest mark in the world in Stage One of the notoriously challenging MW programme, to uncover the side of Oregon that most people never discover. From cross-border wine regions that ignore state lines to savoury Syrah grown on basalt cobblestones, richer styles of Pinot Gris and a brand-new sparkling wine movement, this episode will completely change the way you think about Oregon. Along the way, we also discuss what the future of wine might look like - and why the biggest challenge facing the wine industry may have nothing to do with wine itself. You'll discover why the Rocks District produces some of America's most distinctive Syrah, why Oregon's Pinot Gris deserves far more attention, how Method Oregon is putting the state's sparkling wines on the map, and the producers and wine regions that s
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 272 - Counterfeit Wine & Wine Fraud: Could Your Wine Be Fake? With Maureen Downey
What if that expensive bottle of wine you've just bought isn't what you think it is? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores the fascinating - and often shocking - world of counterfeit wine and wine fraud with Maureen Downey , one of the world's leading authorities on wine authentication, provenance and fraud. From fake bottles of Burgundy and First Growth Bordeaux to the infamous Rudy Kurniawan wine fraud scandal, Maureen reveals how counterfeit wine enters the market, which wines are most commonly faked, and how experts determine whether a bottle is genuine. You'll discover how wine experts authenticate suspicious bottles using forensic techniques including the examination of labels, paper, glass, UV light, invisible inks and microscopic analysis. We also explore why wine provenance - the documented history of a bottle's ownership, storage and journey through the market - is so important when buying fine wine. Maureen explains how organised crime has become involved
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 271 - Washington State Wine: The Ultimate Wine Road Trip Through America's Hidden Gem
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores Washington State wine - discovering the best wine regions, wineries and grapes that make this one of America's most exciting wine destinations. Joined by Chris Stone and Averyl Mooney from the Washington State Wine Commission , they uncover what makes Washington wine unique, from the famous Columbia Valley and Walla Walla wine regions to ancient flood soils, volcanic landscapes, dramatic climate contrasts and the diverse AVAs producing exceptional wines. Discover why Washington State has become one of the world's most dynamic wine destinations, how its geography shapes the style and quality of its wines, and why a Washington wine road trip belongs on every wine lover's bucket list. From the Cascade Mountains and the rain shadow effect to high-desert vineyards and remarkable terroir, this episode is packed with insights for anyone wanting to learn about wine, deepen their wine education, or plan an unforgettable wine travel adven
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 270 - Bordeaux Beyond the First Growths: How to Find Great Value in Fine Wine with Michael Saunders
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to Bordeaux, one of the world's most famous wine regions, to uncover a side of Bordeaux that many wine lovers overlook. Beyond the First Growths and headline names, where can you find great value today? How do you know if a fine wine has been stored properly? And why does provenance and traceability matter so much when buying mature Bordeaux? Joined by Michael Saunders , Group CEO of Coterie Holdings , this episode explores the world of Bordeaux fine wine, from First Growths and Cru Bourgeois to En Primeur, mature vintages and hidden gems across the Left and Right Bank. Whether you're looking to learn about wine, deepen your wine education, discover one of the world's greatest wine regions, plan Bordeaux wine travel, or understand how to buy fine wine with confidence, this wine podcast episode is packed with expert insights, practical advice and stories from inside the world of Bordeaux. Shownotes 04:18 – Château d'Yquem 1967 — the
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 269 - Alto Adige Explained | Italy's Alpine Wine Region, Indigenous Grapes & Wine Travel
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores Alto Adige (Südtirol), one of Italy's most exciting wine regions, with Eduard Bernhart, Director of Alto Adige Wines . If you're looking to learn about wine, discover new wine regions, understand indigenous wine grapes, or plan an unforgettable wine travel adventure, this episode is your complete guide to one of Europe's most distinctive Alpine wine destinations. From indigenous wine grapes like Schiava and Lagrein to internationally renowned varieties including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir, this episode uncovers how altitude, geology, climate and culture combine to create truly distinctive wines. Along the way, Janina and Eduard discuss mountain vineyards, Michelin-starred restaurants, cooperative winemaking, sustainable viticulture and why Alto Adige deserves to be at the top of every wine travel itinerary. Whether you're a curious wine lover, studying wine, planning a wine holiday or simply loo
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 268 - Loire Valley Wine Region | French Wine Deep Dive for WSET Diploma D3
In this wine podcast episode, Janina takes you on a deep dive through the Loire Valley - one of the world’s most diverse and fascinating wine regions - using the WSET Diploma textbook as a guide. Whether you're studying for the D3 Wines of the World exam, planning future wine travel, or simply want to learn about wine in a more structured way, this flashcard-style episode explores the Loire Valley from the Atlantic coast to Sancerre in the east. Discover the region’s climate, soils, wine grapes and winemaking styles, including Muscadet, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, while building a deeper understanding of French wine and wine education along the way. Timestamps 2:18 – Introduction to the Loire Valley - history, the river, and how regions are divided 3:22 – Overview of the regions and key grape varieties - Melon, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc 4:13 – Pays Nantais: Region & Grapes - Melon de Bourgogne, Muscadet, and Folle Blanche 4:54 – Pays Nantais: C
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 267 – Why Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc Tastes Like Nowhere Else: Awatere Valley, Terroir & the Future of New Zealand Wine with Yealands Chief Winemaker, Natalie Christensen
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by Natalie Christensen , Chief Winemaker at Yealands , to explore one of the world's most recognised wine regions: Marlborough in New Zealand. Together they dive into the differences between the Wairau Valley and Awatere Valley, uncovering how climate, soils and geography create remarkably different expressions of Sauvignon Blanc. From aroma compounds and winemaking decisions to sustainability, sub-regionality and the future of New Zealand wine, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to learn about wine, deepen their wine education, understand wine grapes and discover why Marlborough deserves to be considered alongside the great wine regions of the world. There is also plenty of inspiration for wine travel, with Natalie sharing what visitors can expect when exploring the stunning Yealands vineyards on New Zealand's South Island. Shownotes 03:12 – Discovering Marlborough — Natalie introduces New Zealand's most f
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 266 – Old Vines, Heritage Grapes & Hidden Wine Regions with Nomadic Winemaker Darren Smith
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by nomadic winemaker Darren Smith, founder of The Finest Wines Available to Humanity . Having worked harvests across Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Portugal, Spain and the Canary Islands, Darren shares stories from some of the world's most overlooked wine regions and explains why old vines, heritage wine grapes and local traditions continue to inspire his winemaking philosophy. Together, they explore País, Negra Criolla, Quebranta and Palomino, discovering how these historic wine grapes travelled across continents and evolved into unique regional identities. Along the way, they discuss minimal intervention winemaking, tree-trained vineyards, volcanic terroir and flor-aged wines, while uncovering extraordinary wine travel destinations that rarely make the spotlight. Whether you want to learn about wine, deepen your wine education, discover lesser-known wine regions, understand heritage grape varieties or plan your next wine travel advent
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep265 - Romanian Wine Explained: Indigenous Grapes, Fetească Neagră & Europe's Most Underrated Wine Region with Cramele Recas
Romania is home to some of Europe's most exciting indigenous grape varieties, yet remains one of the continent's most overlooked wine destinations. In this episode, Janina sits down with Winemaking duo and Husband and Wife, Nora Iriarte and Hartley Smithers of Cramele Recaș to explore Fetească Neagră, Fetească Regală and Fetească Albă, uncovering why Romanian wine deserves far more attention from wine lovers around the world. Along the way, they debate cork versus screwcap, discuss natural fermentation and minimal intervention winemaking, explain how climate change is affecting Romanian vineyards, and reveal the realities of producing quality wine at scale. You'll also discover Romania's key wine regions, get wine travel recommendations for Timișoara, learn why Fetească Neagră is one of Europe's most exciting red grapes, and hear firsthand what modern Romanian winemaking looks like today. Shownotes 1:45 – Introduction to Cramele Recas and their sustainability credentials 3:49 – An over
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 264 – Wine Glasses Explained: Does Glass Shape Really Change the Taste of Wine? With Max Riedel
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina sits down with Max Riedel of Riedel Glassware to explore one of the most debated topics in wine education and wine tasting: does the shape of a wine glass really change the way wine tastes? From the science behind bowl size, rim diameter and aroma delivery to grape-specific wine glasses, decanters and the evolution of modern wine styles, Max shares insights from the Riedel family's glassmaking tradition dating back to 1756. Together, they discuss how different wine regions, wine grapes and winemaking approaches influence glass design, why varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay require different shapes, and how wine lovers can improve their wine appreciation through simple tasting experiments. The conversation also explores decanting wine, collecting fine wine, memorable bottles, and the changing landscape of global wine culture. Whether you're passionate about wine education, curious about the impact of glassware on sensory percepti
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 263 – Armenia Wine Explained: Ancient Wine Regions, Indigenous Grapes & the World’s Oldest Vineyards with Caroline Gilby MW
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to one of the oldest and most fascinating wine regions in the world: Armenia. Joined by Master of Wine Caroline Gilby , this episode explores why Armenia is becoming one of the most exciting destinations for adventurous wine lovers, wine travel enthusiasts and anyone wanting to learn about wine beyond the classic regions. Together, they dive into Armenia’s volcanic terroir, high-altitude vineyards, ancient winemaking history and indigenous wine grapes, including Areni Noir and Voskehat. They also discuss pre-phylloxera vines, clay amphora traditions, Armenian oak, modern winemaking evolution and why this ancient culture is entering a remarkable new chapter in wine education and global recognition. If you want to learn about wine beyond the classic regions, explore indigenous wine grapes, or discover one of the world’s most fascinating wine travel destinations, this episode is for you. 02:42 – From science to wine — Caroline Gilby M
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 262 – The Science & Magic of Aged Wine with Kelli White
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores one of the most fascinating topics in wine education: aged wine. This is a deep dive into how wine changes over time, designed for anyone who wants to learn about wine, understand classic wine regions, and build confidence in tasting and evaluating wine. Joined by award-winning wine writer and educator Kelli White , this wine podcast episode unpacks what really happens inside a bottle as it ages - from tannins and acidity to sediment, closures, and storage conditions. Together, they explore how and why certain wine grapes and wines from regions like Burgundy, Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Barolo develop complexity and character with age, while others lose their structure. Along the way, they also discuss wine travel experiences, the emotional side of opening mature bottles, and what it really means to build a wine collection — whether you are just starting out or already passionate about aged wines. Whether you’re looking to learn
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 261 - Bordeaux Wine Region | French Wine Deep Dive for WSET Diploma D3
If you're studying for the WSET Diploma D3 exam, or you simply want to deepen your understanding of one of the world's most iconic wine regions, this episode is your essential listen. Janina takes you on a deep dive into Bordeaux, delivering everything you need to know in an engaging, audio flashcard format. She asks the questions, you pause and think (or just absorb it all), and by the end you'll have a solid command of everything from the rivers that shape the region to the soils beneath the vines. By the end of this episode, you'll be able to confidently name Bordeaux's key grape varieties and explain what each brings to a blend, describe the major appellations on both the Left Bank and Right Bank, understand how climate, vintage variation, and soil type influence wine style, and walk through the winemaking decisions -from vineyard to bottle - that define great Bordeaux. Whether you're revising for an exam or just want to sound impressively knowledgeable at your next dinner party, t
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 260 – English Rosé Wine: Sparkling Styles, Pinot Meunier & Great British Rosé Week with Archie Patel
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores one of the fastest-growing trends in the world of wine: English rosé. Joined by Archie Patel - founder of Great British Rosé Week and creator of Dancing Duchess - this episode dives into how English rosé is evolving across different wine regions, styles and winemaking techniques. From traditional method sparkling wines to Charmat expressions, this is a practical and engaging way to learn about wine, understand how rosé is made, and discover why England is becoming an exciting destination for wine travel. Along the way, you’ll also explore key wine grapes like Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir, while building your sparkling wine vocabulary. Inspired by Great British Rosé Week in its 6th year, this episode is your invitation to get involved and celebrate - grab a bottle of English or Welsh rosé, still or sparkling, and join the conversation on Instagram using #GreatBritishRoséWeek and #GBRW. 05:22 – Growth of English rosé — how the cat
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 259 - Albariño from Rías Baixas with Aran Álvarez of Martín Códax: One Grape, It’s Many Wine Styles & Atlantic Terroir
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to the Atlantic coast of Galicia in Spain to explore one of the most exciting wine regions for white wines: Rías Baixas. Joined by winemaker Aran Álvarez from Martín Códax , this episode is a deep dive into Albariño from Rías Baixas - one of the most expressive white wine grapes in the world. From terroir and climate to winemaking techniques, lees ageing, sparkling styles, orange wine and even noble rot, this episode explores just how many different expressions one grape can create. If you want to learn about wine, understand how wine styles are shaped, and get inspired for your next wine travel destination, this episode is for you. 04:11 – Val do Salnés explained — the heart of Albariño and a key Atlantic wine region. 05:47 – Climate change — shifting rainfall patterns and their impact on vineyards. 06:46 – Pergola (emparrado) training — the traditional system adapted to humidity. 11:18 – Atlantic influence — how proximity to the
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 258 – English Wine at the London Wine Fair – Producers, Trends & What to Taste
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina takes you inside the London Wine Fair to explore the rise of English wine and its growing presence on the global stage. Through conversations with leading producers - Simpson’s Wine Estate , Roebuck Estates , 1276 Wines and Everflyht - this episode dives into the people, wines and techniques shaping modern English wine. From Pinot Meunier clones and Bacchus to sustainability, sparkling wine production and tasting highlights, this is a must-listen if you want to better understand English wine and discover the styles, grapes and producers to know. And don’t forget, if you are in the wine trade, block out the dates 18-20 May for London Wine Fair 2026, Olympia, London. 02:06 – Introduction to English wine at London Wine Fair - a key moment for this growing wine region. 04:23 – Pinot Meunier clones - why they’re less discussed but still important wine grapes. 05:27 – What defines a Simpson’s wine - terroir, identity and precision winemaking.
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 257 – Orvieto DOC: Italy’s Most Overlooked Wine Region Explained with Luisa Salussolia
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to Umbria, Italy’s “green heart”, to explore one of the country’s most underrated wine regions: Orvieto DOC. Joined by wine educator and ambassador Luisa Salussolia , this episode blends wine education, wine travel inspiration, and a deep dive into wine grapes that define the region. From volcanic soils and indigenous varieties like Grechetto and Procanico, to food pairings, tasting tips and travel advice, this is your guide to discovering Orvieto and expanding your understanding of Italian wine. If you’re looking to learn about wine, discover new regions and plan your next wine trip, this episode is for you. 02:53 – Discovering Orvieto — why this underrated wine region deserves more attention. 04:19 – The Umbrian landscape — a perfect destination for wine travel with history, nature and value. 06:40 – Montefalco Sagrantino — one of Italy’s boldest red wine grapes. 08:42 – Arnaldo Caprai and the wine that helped redefine this part
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
Ep 256 – Australian Shiraz: Regions, Styles and the Future of Australia’s Iconic Grape with Huon Hooke
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, the wine podcast dedicated to wine education, Janina Doyle dives deep into the world of Australian Shiraz with one of the country’s most respected wine critics, Huon Hooke , lead reviewer for The Real Review. Together they explore the diversity of Shiraz across Australia’s most famous wine regions - from the powerful wines of Barossa Valley to the savoury elegance of Hunter Valley and the peppery character of Grampians. They also discuss the oldest Shiraz vines in the country, how soil and climate influence style, which regions offer the best value today and where the future of Australian Shiraz is heading. If you want to learn about wine, explore different wine grapes (with a few mentions of other varieties along the way, even though this episode focuses on Shiraz) and understand how climate and terroir shape flavour, this episode offers a fascinating journey through one of the world’s most iconic varieties. It’s also packed with insights for
- podcast· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
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· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
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· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
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· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
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· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
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· EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast
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 -