Wine Behind The Scenes

Laurel Simmons
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Do you love and enjoy wine? Are you fascinated by everything about wine? If so, you'll love this show. Every other week, join Laurel Simmons, who is just like you, passionate about wine and who has explored it with much enthusiasm, intention, and travels as you escape into and explore stories about wine -- the places, tastes, smells, sights, and the people who enjoy it. Learn with her, laugh with her, taste, and travel with her as you explore Wine Behind The Scenes together.

  1. How to Make a 180-Degree Turn: Buy a Winery

    2D AGO

    How to Make a 180-Degree Turn: Buy a Winery

    This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes.    Imagine going from the stress of corporate life to the tranquillity of owning a winery.  Well not quite.  Marzia and Bob Murdoch, left their corporate careers in Toronto to pursue their dream of owning a winery in Niagara's scenic wine country. Their path was far from smooth. Just as they started, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, bringing unexpected challenges. From battling tough weather conditions to learning how to run a winery, Marzia and Bob faced it all. But their passion for winemaking and hospitality transformed both their lives and their business. Tune in to hear how they turned adversity into a thriving winery, producing award-winning wines and creating a vibrant community. This episode is full of inspiration, resilience, and plenty of reasons to raise a glass! In this episode you will be able to:  Discover the inspiring journey of Marzia and Bob Murdoch, who made a bold 180-degree life change by purchasing a winery in Niagara during the challenges of COVID-19. Learn about the unique challenges they faced, including losing their first crop to winter kill and navigating the complexities of running a winery without prior experience in farming or hospitality. Understand the three distinct businesses involved in winery operations: farming, winemaking, and sales, and how Marzia and Bob tackled each aspect. Hear about their innovative strategies for marketing and sales, especially during the pandemic, including building a new website and implementing e-commerce solutions. Explore the importance of community and networking within the wine industry, and how collaboration with other wineries has been beneficial for their growth. Gain valuable advice for anyone considering entering the winery business, emphasizing the need for hard work, dedication, and a realistic understanding of the industry. Marzia and Bob Murdoch are the dynamic duo behind 180 Wines, a boutique winery located in the picturesque Jordan Station of Niagara, Ontario.  After spending over 30 years in corporate careers in Toronto, they made a bold decision to pivot their lives and embrace the world of winemaking just as the COVID-19 pandemic began.  With no prior experience in farming or hospitality, they faced numerous challenges, including losing their first crop to winter kill. However, their determination and passion for their new venture have transformed their lives for the better. At 180 Wines, Marzia and Bob focus on quality over quantity, producing approximately 2,500 cases of wine each year. Their commitment to craftsmanship is evident in their award-winning wines, including their 2020 Meritage and 2020 Gamay Noirs, which received accolades at the prestigious Decanter Awards in the UK. The couple has also integrated their family into the business, with their two daughters contributing to various aspects of winery operations, from marketing to staffing. Marzia and Bob are not just winemakers; they are also dedicated community members who actively engage with other local wineries and participate in events that promote the Niagara region.  Their winery features a charming bistro and event space, offering a unique culinary experience that complements their wines. With a love for entertaining and a commitment to creating memorable experiences for their guests, Marzia and Bob invite you to join them at 180 Wines for a taste of their passion and dedication to the art of winemaking. Contact Marzia and Bob Murdoch here: Website: www.180wines.ca Email: info@180wines.ca  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/180wines/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/180wines/

    28 min
  2. How to Untangle the World of Wine: Questions & Answers: Special Replay

    FEB 25

    How to Untangle the World of Wine: Questions & Answers: Special Replay

    This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes, with Liesel Meissner, for a fun, informative, and completely unpretentious conversation about wine with host Laurel Simmons. Tired of feeling overwhelmed in wine shops and lost reading restaurant lists, Liesel came armed with questions, and Laurel delivered the answers. From understanding residual sugar and decoding trendy terms like "orange wine" and "pet-nat," to what wine to bring to a business dinner, this episode strips away the mystery and seriousness and gets real about what makes wine enjoyable and accessible. If you've ever stared at a wine list in panic, wondered whether corks are better than screw tops, or just wanted to know why some wine smells like wet gravel, this is the episode for you. What You'll Learn: What residual sugar means and how it affects taste Why orange wine and pet-nats are making waves When (and why) to aerate or decant your wine The truth about corks, screw tops, and bottle closure How to choose wine for a professional dinner Tips for recognizing quality without relying on price tags Why wine doesn't have to be serious to be seriously good Liesel Meissner is a wine-curious traveller, reader, and enthusiastic learner who's made it her mission to understand wine on her own terms. Whether sipping Malbec in Mendoza or exploring wineries in Lebanon, she's passionate about discovering regional wines and sharing great bottles with friends. She's not a sommelier, just someone who wants to hear, "Liesel, great choice!" more often. Want to feel more confident picking wine? Start here. Listen now at www.winebehindthescenes.com

    35 min
  3. Sip & Seduce: The Secrets of Wine and Romance: Special Replay

    FEB 11

    Sip & Seduce: The Secrets of Wine and Romance: Special Replay

    This week, we dive back into the Wine Behind the Scenes Archives to listen to one of our most popular episodes, exploring the captivating connection between wine and romance with the delightful Amy Riley, a leading expert in aphrodisiac foods and a passionate wine lover. From ancient myths to modern romantic dinners, wine has always played a key role in seduction. Amy shares her fascinating journey from selling wine in Sonoma County to becoming an authority on aphrodisiac foods. Together, we uncover the science behind wine's seductive powers, the aromas that spark desire, and tips for crafting the perfect romantic pairing. Whether you're planning a special date night or simply curious about wine's allure, this episode is sure to inspire. So pour yourself a glass and join us! In this episode you will be able to:  Discover the fascinating intersection of wine and romance, exploring their historical and cultural ties. Learn about the origins of aphrodisiac foods and how they relate to wine, including insights from ancient Greek and Roman mythology. Understand the role of wine in romantic settings and how it enhances the dining experience. Explore the science behind wine aromas and their effects on sexual arousal, including insights from Dr. Max Lake's research. Find out which specific wine scents are most appealing to men and women, and how they relate to pheromones. Amy Reiley is an expert on the intersection of wine, food, and romance. With a background that began in the tasting room of a Sonoma County winery, Amy quickly discovered her passion for wine and its rich history. She honed her writing skills as a freelance writer before pursuing a master's degree in gastronomy from Le Cordon Bleu, where she focused on the intriguing topic of aphrodisiac foods and their relationship with wine and sex. As the leading authority on aphrodisiac foods, Amy has been featured in prestigious publications, including National Geographic, and has built a reputation for her engaging and informative approach to culinary experiences. Her website, EatSomethingSexy.com, is a treasure trove of insights into aphrodisiac foods, sexual health, and the art of creating memorable dining experiences. Amy's unique perspective combines her expertise in nutrition and gastronomy with her passion for wine, making her a sought-after speaker and writer on the romantic aspects of food and drink. Whether discussing the historical ties between wine and ancient gods or sharing tips for creating the perfect romantic meal, Amy captivates her audience with her knowledge and enthusiasm. Contact Amy Reiley here:  Website: https://www.eatsomethingsexy.com/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/forkmespoonme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NaturalAphrodisiacs/ X: https://twitter.com/EatSomethngSexy

    27 min
  4. Passion, Curiosity and Change: How to Rethink Wine

    JAN 28

    Passion, Curiosity and Change: How to Rethink Wine

    She's back and bolder than ever. In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons reconnects with wine consultant, educator, and Master of Wine candidate Irem Eren for a conversation that's as honest as it is inspiring.  From the intense demands of the Master of Wine program (less than 5% make it through) to global shifts in consumer behaviour, Irem offers a front-row seat to what's happening in wine right now and what's coming next. Together, they explore the rise of No and Low Alcohol wines, the strategic and stylistic power of rosé, and how wine professionals can embrace change without losing the heart of tradition. Irem also opens up about burnout in the industry, what it's like to be in the thick of Master of Wine Stage 2, and why rosé deserves more than a seasonal spotlight. What You'll Learn: What the Master of Wine program really takes mentally and emotionally Why rosé deserves respect and how brands are rethinking its future The science and strategy behind No and Low Alcohol wines How the wine world is evolving and who's driving the change How wine education and confidence go hand-in-hand Whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious about what's in your glass, this episode blends technical insight, industry perspective, and a whole lot of heart. Listen now at: www.winebehindthescenes.com

    31 min
  5. Flying Whale: How to Find Home Through Wine

    JAN 14

    Flying Whale: How to Find Home Through Wine

    What happens when wine becomes a vessel for memory, healing, and home? In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, host Laurel Simmons sits down with Maba Ba, the storyteller and founder behind Flying Whale Wine, a French wine project shaped by personal taste over tradition. Born in Dakar, Senegal, raised between cultures, and now based in New York City, Maba's journey into wine wasn't linear, but it was always intentional. From his first curious sip to producing his own wines in Roussillon, France, Maba shares how Flying Whale became a reflection of his identity, his upbringing, and his desire to break open the way we talk about and connect with wine. The conversation touches on diaspora, creative entrepreneurship, and the power of doing things your own way, especially in an industry that often expects you to fit into someone else's mould. What You'll Learn: How Maba Ba's cross-continental life shaped his path into winemaking Why Flying Whale Wine is all about story, not snobbery The real challenges of getting small, independent wines into the U.S. market How Maba blends art, identity, and flavour to create something deeply personal Why belonging is a theme that runs through every bottle he produces The mission behind his "Sip and Tell" challenge What it means to make space for yourself and others in wine culture Whether you're a wine lover, creative soul, or someone figuring out how to build a life across borders, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that the best wines tell stories and the best storytellers are often outsiders looking in. Listen now at: www.winebehindthescenes.com

    29 min
  6. Puddings, Port, and Wine: the Magic of Edwardian Traditions

    2025-12-24

    Puddings, Port, and Wine: the Magic of Edwardian Traditions

    What did a holiday feast look like in Edwardian England?  Think multiple courses, carefully decanted wines, and a strict social hierarchy governing every sip and bite.  In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons is joined by author Susan Jennings, whose historical novel, "The Blue Pendant," dives deep into life inside a grand seaside hotel in early 20th-century Britain. Inspired by her grandmother's stories and fuelled by meticulous research, Susan paints a vivid picture of the Edwardian era. In this period of time, food and wine were more than sustenance; they were statements of class, comfort, and culture. Together, she and Laurel explore the customs of the time, the importance of Christmas dinners, and the quiet labour of those working behind the scenes in grand hotels.   What You'll Learn: What inspired The Blue Pendant and how Susan wove her family's history into the story How Edwardian hotels operated from butlers to banquet halls The essential role of wine in social status and formal dining Christmas traditions of the time (yes, there was port!) How customs from over a century ago still echo in our modern holiday celebrations What it was really like for the staff behind those sparkling dinner scenes Whether you're a historical fiction fan or just love a well-set table, this episode will transport you to a time of elegance, tradition, and a whole lot of wine. Listen now at: www.winebehindthescenes.com

    30 min
  7. The Christmas Magic of Wine and Chocolate

    2025-12-10

    The Christmas Magic of Wine and Chocolate

    In this special holiday episode, host Laurel Simmons invites you to slow down and indulge in two of the season's most comforting pleasures: chocolate and wine. But this isn't just about taste, it's about transformation, history, and the quiet rituals that make the holidays feel magical. Laurel takes us through the ancient origins of both chocolate and wine, connecting their sacred roots to modern-day celebration. She dives into the science of fermentation, explains why these two delights pair so well emotionally and chemically, and offers practical, easy-to-follow tips for creating your own perfect pairings at home this holiday season. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or someone who just wants to pair their peppermint bark with something bold and bubbly, this festive episode is your invitation to slow down and savour the joy of the season. What You'll Learn: The emotional and sensory reasons wine and chocolate feel so special during the holidays How fermentation connects both wine and chocolate at a molecular level The rich cultural history of chocolate from ancient rituals to Victorian Christmas traditions Practical rules for pairing: matching sweetness, intensity, and texture Specific wine suggestions for dark, milk, white, salted caramel, and peppermint chocolate Why terroir matters just as much for chocolate as it does for wine How to build mindful holiday rituals around flavour and connection Whether you're setting the table for a holiday dinner or just sneaking a chocolate truffle with a glass of red by the fireplace, this episode is a delicious reminder to slow down and celebrate the season's sweetest moments. The Christmas Magic of Wine & Chocolate is your perfect cozy holiday listen. Listen now at: www.winebehindthescenes.com

    27 min
  8. How to Design a Life in Wine You Love

    2025-11-26

    How to Design a Life in Wine You Love

    What do wine, cats, design, and career reinvention have in common? The guest this week, Jaime Drayer, will say everything. In this inspiring episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel sits down with Jaime to talk about how she went from working as a graphic designer to building her own creative brand (hello, Kitties and Cabernet!) before diving headfirst into the wine world. What began as a part-time retail job at Burning Kiln Winery quickly turned into a full-time passion. Today, Jaime is the winery's Marketing Coordinator, combining her eye for design, love for storytelling, and a growing knowledge of all things wine. Jaime shares how she returned to her hometown of Norfolk County, found an unexpected opportunity in an emerging wine region, and discovered a supportive all-female leadership team that's helping shape the future of Ontario wine. If you've ever thought about switching lanes, following your creative instincts, or learning wine from the ground up this episode's for you. What You'll Learn: How Jaime transitioned from graphic designer to wine marketer The story behind her wine-and-cat-themed business, Kitties and Cabernet Why Burning Kiln Winery's unique location sets it apart in Ontario What it's like working with an all-female management team The ins and outs of learning about wine through hands-on experience Tips for anyone curious about working in wine How passion projects can fuel your main hustle And we have our wonky term with Judith Lewis - What the term "RS" means in wine (and no, it's not a new app!) Jaime Drayer is the Marketing Coordinator at Burning Kiln Winery in Norfolk County, Ontario. A trained graphic designer, Jaime began her career in Hamilton, working in the creative industry across the GTA before launching her own wine-inspired brand, Kitties and Cabernet.  After returning to her hometown in 2023, she joined Burning Kiln as a part-time retail team member. Her role quickly evolved to include sales and marketing, a perfect match for her storytelling skills and growing passion for the wine industry.  Whether she's designing greeting cards, planning winery events, or creating brand content, Jaime brings creativity, heart, and authenticity to everything she does. Listen now at: www.winebehindthescenes.com

    28 min
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About

Do you love and enjoy wine? Are you fascinated by everything about wine? If so, you'll love this show. Every other week, join Laurel Simmons, who is just like you, passionate about wine and who has explored it with much enthusiasm, intention, and travels as you escape into and explore stories about wine -- the places, tastes, smells, sights, and the people who enjoy it. Learn with her, laugh with her, taste, and travel with her as you explore Wine Behind The Scenes together.

Information

  • Creator
    Laurel Simmons
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Laurel Simmons 2022-2023
  • Show Website
    Wine Behind The Scenes