EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A wine podcast Janina Doyle

To download the transcript CLICK HERE
 
Welcome back to part two with Anne McHale, Master of Wine. In this episode, we shift our focus from Alsace to the Douro region in Portugal. Anne shares her memorable experience of treading grapes in the Douro, highlighting the historical significance of traditional foot treading in port wine production and comparing it to modern mechanical methods.
 
We'll explore the primary red grapes used in port production: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Tinta Cão, and Tinta Barroca. Additionally, we'll discuss the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the Douro, with its steep, vineyard-covered slopes visible (something we should all be experiencing from a cruise boat along the River Douro).
 
We dig deeper into the unique vineyard planting methods: the traditional stone-wall terraces called Socalcos, the 1980s earth-bank Patamares, and the vertical plantings known as Vinha ao Alto. And even the oldest stone walls, Pilheiros, believed to be 400 years old.
 
This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.
 
If you want to skip ahead:
 
2.45: The different techniques used to build the unique terraces of the Douro region
06.01: Treading grapes at Quinta do Vesuvio
10.55: The €500 per-person experience at Quinta do Vesuvio
11.44: Douro - A UNESCO World Heritage site
13.30: Advantages & disadvantages of Treading traditionally vs mechanically  
16.35: Best places for premium wines - Douro superior & Cima Corgo, and the climatic changes throughout region
17.40: Understanding these geographical concepts in preparation for the diploma questions
18.57: The schist and granite soils
20.45: Questions surrounding the Touriga Nacional variety - the D5 Fortified Exam and how to remember the descriptions of each grape variety in the typical blend
25.32: Anne’s experience staying in the Grahams’ Quinta - Quinta Dos Malvedos
26.20: Douro: The third oldest demarcated wine region in Europe
29.56: Syminton Family Estates
30.30: Wine Estate recommendations in the Douros
33.58: Three Therapy - a comprehensive guide on how to study for the Level 3 WSET
 
And don’t forget if you want to know more about Anne’s incredible Diplomatherapy you can click HERE to get weekly emails to help you with your diploma. Or if you want to explore more of what Anne has to offer Diploma related, click HERE.
 
Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat
 
If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Until next time, Cheers to you!
 
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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE
 
Hello, wine friends! In this episode, we journey into the Alsace wine region with the brilliant Anne Mchale, Master of Wine, and independent wine consultant and educator based in London. Anne's expertise spans across wine list design, corporate and private tastings, and innovative educational programs like her renowned course for WSET diploma students - Diplomatherapy 
Sign up here:
https://annemchale.com/diplomatherapy-2024-registration/
 
Or get email updates:
https://annemchale.com/diploma-emails/
 
We'll explore the unique terroir of Alsace, its Grand Cru sites, and compare Riesling's distinct style with other renowned wine regions. Anne shares insights from her recent trip, highlighting hidden gems like the Sylvaner grape, dubbed the Cinderella grape, and the region's exciting focus on Pinot Noir.
 
Anne also provides invaluable tips for those studying for the challenging D3 exam.
 
Don't miss Anne's recommendations for top Alsace producers and must-visit places. Plus, discover the fantastic Crémants d'Alsace, a great alternative to champagne. 
 
This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.
 
If you want to skip ahead:
 
05.08: How learning to speech French allowed Anne to fall into the world of wine
09.56: A wine memory at Pontet-Canet in Bordeaux who focus on biodynamic viticulture
11.48: Alsacian winemakers working more organically and biodynamically due to climate
14.20: Diplomatherapy - Anne’s membership programme to help you pass your WSET diploma
16.45: How to answer a typical D3 question: “Describe the unique terroir of Alsace and how it influences the characteristics of the wines produced there”
18.32: The climate during growing season in Alsace, the diurnal range in Grand Crus, and the cool climate
21.51: The 4 noble grape varieties of Alsace and increased plantings of Pinot Noir 
24.37: The 51 Grand Crus, and the two to now permit Pinot Noir
26.45: Riesling in Alsace, compared to other regions and the change in labelling for dry Riesling
30.54: Common occurrence of petrol notes in aged Rieslings, and how they aren’t typical of Alsace 
33.15: Tasting a Vendange Tardive Gewürztraminer 1953
38.27: Traveling tips for going to Alsace
42.36: Sylvaner -”The Cinderella Grape”
44.45: The Alsace Cru Terroir group and recommended producers to try
 
Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat
 
If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Until next time, Cheers to you!
 
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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

o download the transcript CLICK HERE
 
Welcome back to part 2 where we continue our discussion with Marc Hochar from the iconic Chateau Musar. In this episode, we shift our focus to the intriguing world of Chateau Musar's white wines. Marc enlightens us on the ancient grape varieties, Obaideh and Merwah, which form the backbone of these exceptional wines.
 
Join us as we uncover the secrets behind the longevity of Chateau Musar's whites. From discussing the optimal drinking window to cracking open a bottle of the exquisite 2017 Chateau Musar White, there's plenty to discover and savor.
 
This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.
 
If you want to skip ahead:
02.17: Diving deeper into the aging of wines
04.11: Chateau Musar reds of the 1950s
11.57: Experience with Blends and blind tasting
14.30: Opening the Chateau Musar white 2017 £36 The Wine Society £36.20 Vinvm
16.47: Flavour profile ands tasting notes
20.00: Reds Vs Whites as they age
23.08: The Chateau Musar Rosé - a blend of Obaideh and Merwah
31.34: The ancient grape varieties of Obaideh and Merwah
36.23: Food Pairings and tasting notes
40.20: The future of Chateau wines

Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat
 
If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Until next time, Cheers to you!
 
------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------
THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE
 
Welcome back! On today's episode, Join us as we venture into the saga of perseverance in winemaking, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 15/16 years of civil unrest. We uncover the fascinating narrative behind Chateau Musar, the revered wine of the Middle East. Our esteemed guest, Marc Hochar, from the family behind this iconic label, graciously shares their remarkable tales.
 
We'll delve into the legacy of Serge Hochar (Marc’s late father), a driving force behind Chateau Musar, whose unparalleled dedication earned him the prestigious title of Decanter Man of the Year. Together, we'll traverse the landscapes of Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, examining the intricate dance between climate, altitude, and organic viticulture, all shaping the unique essence of these wines.
 
As we sip on the 2016 Chateau Musar Red, we'll explore the nuances of volatile acidity, wild yeast, and low sulfur, delving into the winemaking philosophies that infuse each bottle with character.
 
This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.
 
If you want to skip ahead:
 
02.27: The Mzar castle in the Historic village of Ghazir, Beirut
05.17: Toughest points of Chateau Musar’s History: Wine & War
11.34: Marc’s Grandfather: Gaston - the man who started it all
16.02: A bottle of Chateau Musar’s trip to Antarctica
17.58: Identifying Chateau Musar in a blind tasting
19.55: Characteristics of Chateau Musar
21.50: Volatile Acidity in wine and how it enhances Chateau Musar
25.29: The Winemaking process
27.53: Discussing the age potential of these wines and tasting Chateau Musar Red 2016 £31.90 Noble Grape £34.95 The Worsley Fine Wines
29.27: Discussing emotion in wine instead of fruit
31.40: Organic viticulture in the vineyards
39.49: Climate and terroir in Bekaa Valley
36.37: Bush vines and yields
40.55: Discussing the differences between the reds and tasting Hochar Pere Et Fils 2020 £23.55 Field & Fawcett £26.95 Secret Bottle Shop
 
Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat
 
If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Until next time, Cheers to you!
 
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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE
 
In this really fun episode (or at least it was for me to record) we are going to dig deeper into the rich tapestry of Spain's indigenous white grape varieties. After a request for an episode on the white grapes of Spain, followed by Decanter magazine's February edition, spotlighting Spain's vibrant wine scene, I explore the nuances of some of Spain’s most interesting native whites, curated from their top scoring whites featured in the publication.
 
With over a hundred native grape varieties, this episode is zoning in on the lesser-known gems of Xarel·lo, Airén, Treixadura, Albillo Real, Hondarrabi Zuri, and Vijariego Blanco. And along the way, you will also discover the wine regions that they come from. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the essence of Spain's white wine heritage, the nation’s evolving viticultural landscape and the experimentation happening within. Enjoy!
This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.
 
If you want to skip ahead:
4.35: Xarel·lo
Tasting The Vins Pepe Raventós, Xarel·lo Vinya del Noguer Alt 2021 £32 -34 Hedonism or Shrine to the Vine
9.35: Airén
Tasting Bodegas Garcia De Lara, Finca Villalobillos Pie Franco Airén 2019 £17.95 Drinksmith
13.35: Treixadura
Tasting Adegas Pazo do Mar the Torre do Olivar Treixadura 2021 £14.99 Strictly Wines
17.00: Albillo Real
Tasting Las Pedreras, Linarejos Vino Blanco de Assemblage 2022 £37 Salisbury Wine Store
22.31: Hondarrabi Zuri
Tasting Hiruzta Txakolina 2023 £18 Strictly Wines and Wine Republic
27.50: Vijariego Blanco
Tasting Viñátigo, Vijariego Blanco 2022 £28 Hic Wine Merchants and Strictly Wines
 
Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat
 
If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Until next time, Cheers to you!
 
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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE
In part two of our discussion on regenerative viticulture, we're joined by a special guest, Wendy Outhwaite, co-founder of Ambriel nestled in the picturesque West Sussex countryside of England. Wendy, who transitioned from a career as a barrister to cultivating vineyards alongside her husband Charles, shares her personal journey of discovering the profound importance of land and soil stewardship.
Today Wendy recounts her experiences, from the initial experiment with geese in the vineyards to embracing alternative methods such as biological controls over harmful chemicals like insecticides and pesticides. Discover the surprising role dandelions and wildflowers play in nurturing vineyards and fostering biodiversity.
We'll delve into the nitty-gritty of vineyard management, exploring the nuances between tilling and hoeing, and gaining insights into what truly defines regenerative viticulture from Wendy's perspective. So, grab a glass of your favorite wine and join us for an enlightening conversation on sustainable winemaking practices and the journey towards a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem.
 
This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.
 
If you want to skip ahead:
02.24: From lawyer to Winemaker
06.52: Healthier soil with regenerative farming
09.16: Hoeing and tilling
13.05: Wildflowers and their contributions
17.36: Planting more trees
20.22: Weeding with Geese
24.10: What is a mulch?
26.00: Vermiculture - Earthworms
33.34: Challenges of regenerative viticulture
35.17: Wine tasting - Blanc de Noirs 2016 £36.99
43.47: Ambiel’s Demi-Sec
 
Any thoughts or questions, do email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat
 
If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
Until next time, Cheers to you!
 
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THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.