The Wined Up

The Wined Up
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Drink More , Try More, Learn More - Two mates tasting, learning, and sharing their experiences with wine from an unapologetically unprofessional perspective.

  1. Christmas Pudding Wine Pairing Challenge + Best Wine Gifts

    4D AGO

    Christmas Pudding Wine Pairing Challenge + Best Wine Gifts

    Send us a text In this festive episode of The Wined Up Podcast, we take on one of the hardest food and wine challenges of all time: what actually pairs with Christmas pudding. Rich, brandy-soaked, packed with dried fruit, suet, spice, and finished with custard, Christmas pudding is notorious for overpowering wine — so we put it to the test properly. We taste what claims to be Australia’s No.1 Christmas pudding from The Pudding Lady in Newcastle, then compare two classic dessert wines: an aged 2005 Château Coutet Sauternes and a Seppeltsfield DP63 Grand Muscat from Rutherglen. We taste each wine on its own and with the pudding to see what works, what doesn’t, and whether sweet wine is even the right answer. Along the way, we share Fast Five Fun Facts about Christmas pudding, talk Christmas wine gift ideas, and debate everything from cork boxes and wine books to blending workshops and advent calendars. If you’re searching for the best wine to pair with Christmas pudding, or looking for thoughtful wine gift ideas for the holidays, this episode goes beyond textbook rules with honest, practical insights. Subscribe to @‌thewinedup and comment 👇 What do you pair with Christmas pudding — wine, brandy, or something else? Follow Us on Instagram (The.Wined.Up) or TikTok (@thewinedup ). Visit our website Home - The Wined Up Podcast  or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Suet and Christmas Pudding 01:04 Wine Pairing Challenge Announcement 01:37 Thoughts of the Week: Christmas Gifts 04:21 Advent Calendar and Wine Thoughts 06:16 Wine Pouring Techniques 09:34 Christmas Pudding and Wine Pairing 10:49 Introduction to the Pudding 11:09 Serving the Pudding 11:31 Tasting the Pudding 11:46 Explaining the Ingredients 13:43 Wine Pairing Challenge 15:14 Fast Five Fun Facts about Christmas Pudding 16:58 Wine and Pudding Pairing Results 19:18 Gift Giving Time 22:56 Final Thoughts and Farewell   #christmaspudding #winepairing #dessertwine #christmaswine #winechallenge #winegifts #sauternes #rutherglenmuscat #wineeducation #thewineduppodcast Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    23 min
  2. Ultimate Guide to Wine Storage with Alex Clerch of LeCavist

    DEC 13

    Ultimate Guide to Wine Storage with Alex Clerch of LeCavist

    Send us a text In this episode we sit down with Alex Clerch from LeCavist to unpack the real rules of wine storage and why so many collectors get it wrong. Alex helps us break down the basics like steady temperature, low vibration, controlled humidity and proper light management. These may sound simple, but they decide how your bottles age and how your collection holds up over time. We talk through the main types of wine cabinets, what makes each one work, and how LeCavist builds its units so they protect wine the way it should be protected. Alex also shares his own path in wine, from early family moments to turning his passion into a business focused on smart storage solutions. If you are just starting your collection or you already have a few shelves filled, Alex gives practical steps you can follow to avoid the usual mistakes we all see. We also clear up myths around wine fridges, noise levels, shelf materials, warranty, brand trust and the features that matter when you are ready to buy. The talk moves from design to durability, from collecting styles to stacking tricks, and even a look at what storage might look like in the future. Subscribe to @‌thewinedup and comment on your questions or experience regarding a wine fridge👇 Check out LeCavist’s range of Wine Cabinets at LeCavist - Australian Home of Premium Wine Fridge Cabinets Chapters: 00:00 Preview 00:55 Introduction 01:04 The Wined Up Ice Breaker Questions 01:27 Alex's Wine Journey and Family Traditions 05:57 The Importance of Wine Storage 08:07 Alex's Business Journey: From Buyer to Wine Storage Innovator 10:58 Design and Features of Wine Cabinets 15:32 Common Wine Storage Mistakes and Solutions 22:58 Myth Busting: Wine Storage 27:31 Discussing Wine Storage Options 27:40 Noise Levels of Wine Storage Devices 28:20 Wooden vs. Metal Shelves 29:10 Common Wine Storage Mistakes 30:38 Key Factors in Choosing a Wine Fridge 31:13 Warranty and Customer Service 32:39 Brand Reputation and Manufacturing 34:36 Pricing and Accessibility 36:07 Direct-to-Consumer Business Model 37:11 Wine Fridge Features and Customization 43:06 Reliability and Longevity of Wine Fridges 43:49 Different Types of Wine Collectors 46:01 Proper Wine Stacking Techniques 50:53 Building a Wine Community 55:23 Future Innovations in Wine Storage 57:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections #winestorage #winefridge #winecabinet #LeCavist #AlexClerch #winecollectiontips #howtostorewine #properwinestorage #winehumiditycontrol #winetemperaturecontrol #winefridgebuyersguide #winecabinetdesign #winestoragemistakes #winecollectingbasics #winecellaralternative #bestwinefridgefeatures #winecoolingsystems #winevibrationcontrol #longtermwinestorage #winepodcast Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    1 hr
  3. Testing Coravin Timeless and Sparkling with Greg Lambrecht

    DEC 6

    Testing Coravin Timeless and Sparkling with Greg Lambrecht

    Send us a text In this episode of The Wined Up Podcast, we sit down with Greg Lambrecht, the founder and inventor of Coravin, to explore something many wine drinkers never talk about enough, which is the emotional bond we form with wine. Greg explains how memories, people and places shape the way a single glass can stay with us for years.  We also cover how Coravin changed the way we taste wine by letting us explore more variety without ever opening a bottle. We walk through Greg’s full story, from early prototypes to the first time he realised he could taste ten wines in one night without wasting any of them. We also dig into how the Timeless and Sparkling systems work, why cork resealing matters, how pressure is restored in sparkling bottles and why this design took years to perfect.  Then we put Coravin to the test in a triangle blind tasting. We compare preserved wines against freshly opened bottles, both still and sparkling, to see whether there is any real difference. We also talk through common myths like the three second screw cap rule, vacuum pumps, decanter lids and gas sprays, and what actually holds up in the real world.  If you want to understand wine preservation better, or you are curious about whether Coravin genuinely works, this episode goes deeper than most reviews. Stick around for the full tasting and the results, because they surprised both of us. Subscribe to @‌thewinedup and comment on your experience with the Coravin products👇 Check out the Coravin range of Wine Preservation Products at https://www.coravin.com.au Chapters: 00:00 The Emotional Connection to Wine 00:56 Introducing Greg Lambert and Coravin 02:37 Memorable Wine Moments 07:41 The Journey to Creating Coravin 17:24 The Coravin Sparkling System 28:48 Introduction to Screw Cap Adapter 29:36 Debunking the Three-Second Rule 30:33 Addressing Bubbles and Cork Resealing 31:34 Blind Tasting Setup 35:03 Blind Tasting Results and Discussion 45:37 Comparing Wine Preservation Systems 49:56 The Coravin Logo and Future Innovations 55:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #coravin #coravintimeless #coravinsparkling #greglambrecht #winepreservation #winegadgets #winetastingpodcast #sparklingwinetest #blindtastingwine #triangletestwine #winetechnology #winetoolsreview #wineeducation #thewineduppodcast #emotionalconnectiontowine #winestories #champagnepreservation #stillwinepreservation #winecollectortools #tastemultiplewines #thewinedup #podcast #winepodcast #interview #wine Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    56 min

  4. NOV 29

    Making Great Wines Affordable with Winemaker Douglas Neal

    Send us a text In this episode of The Wined Up, we sit down with Douglas Neal, a winemaker with decades of experience across Australia, Burgundy, Bordeaux and California. From the first pour, it was clear Doug is on a real mission making great wines accessible again. We talk about rising costs in the wine world, why younger drinkers are being priced out, and why the industry is struggling to balance quality with affordability. Doug breaks down the actual cost pressures on growers, barrels, labour and fruit sourcing, and explains why so many premium bottles have become unreachable for everyday drinkers. We dive into Shiraz in a big way. Doug talks about why Shiraz is Australia’s most climate suited grape, how it handles heat better than Pinot, and how multi regional blends can still make compelling and consistent wines at fair prices. He explains why he avoids underripe styles, how he builds texture and savoury notes without green stem tannin, and why rocky soils in regions like Pyrenees, Blewitt Springs and Murrumbateman matter so much. We also explore his Chardonnay work with Gaffy and Neal, the differences between clones, the balance of creaminess and acidity, and why oak should support, not dominate. Doug shares insights from years designing barrels, working with cooperages, and testing forests and grain sizes to create finesse and structure. Beyond the technical side, we talk about keeping wines under one hundred dollars, the sweet spot for younger drinkers, the pressure on wineries, the future of Australian wine, and the importance of over delivering with every bottle. Thank you Doug for the great chat!  Check out wines by Doug Neal at https://www.winesbydougneal.com/ Subscribe to @‌thewinedup and comment below on your favourite wine from Douglas Neal?👇 CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to High-Quality, Accessible Wines 00:47 Meet Doug Neal from Altera Terra 02:15 Icebreaker Questions with Doug Neal 05:47 Doug Neal's Wine Journey 14:46 Exploring the Gaffy and Neal Partnership 27:06 The Art of Blending and Shiraz 44:16 The Four Building Blocks of Wine 45:04 The Importance of Tasting and Note-Taking 46:00 The Value of Wine Courses and Self-Study 47:07 Learning Through Experience and Travel 49:21 The Evolution of Wine Labels 52:51 Exploring Murrumbateman and Its Wines 01:00:08 The Role of Soil in Wine Quality 01:01:56 Exciting Wine Regions in Australia and New Zealand 01:06:26 The Debate on Single Vineyard Wines 01:17:39 Proudest Moments and Future Aspirations 01:19:54 Final Reflections and Gratitude #affordablewine #Australianwine #DouglasNeal #Shirazblend #MorningtonPeninsula #Chardonnay #wineaccessibility #winevalue #youngwinedrinkers #GaffyandNeal #AlteraTerra #AustralianShiraz #winemakingprocess #wineindustryAustralia #climatechangeandwine #wineeducation #bestvaluewinesAustralia #multiregionalblends #AustralianChard Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    1h 29m
  5. Stuart Knox: From Sommelier to Sydney's Iconic Fix Wine Bar + Restaurant Owner

    NOV 23

    Stuart Knox: From Sommelier to Sydney's Iconic Fix Wine Bar + Restaurant Owner

    Send us a text Welcome to Fix Wine Bar + Restaurant in Sydney! We’re sitting down with the man behind one of Australia’s most iconic wine destinations — Stuart Knox, owner, sommelier, and The Real Review wine critic. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of Australian wine, the evolution of Sydney’s wine bar culture, and Stuart’s incredible 20-year journey building Fix into a place “where everyone knows your name.” We talk about what makes Australian Chardonnay world-class, how the wine scene has shifted over the years, and Stuart’s approach to creating a wine list that celebrates both local producers and unique international bottles. You’ll hear his best tips for food and wine pairing, how to read a wine list without fear, and his philosophy on keeping wine approachable — without the pretentiousness. If you love wine, hospitality, and good stories, this chat will give you a whole new appreciation for the craft and community behind the glass. Subscribe to @‌thewinedup and comment on your favourite memory or wine from Fix Wine Bar + Restaurant👇 Check out Fix Wine Bar and Restaurant at https://fixwine.com.au/ Follow Us on Instagram (The.Wined.Up) or TikTok (@thewinedup ). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au/ or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Chapters: 00:00 Preview 00:41 Introduction 02:31 The Wined Up Icebreaker questions 10:13 The Story Behind the Red Shoes 11:28 Inside Fix Wine Bar 12:25 Tasting: Rivulet Chardonnay 2024 12:41 Why Australian Chardonnay Is Elite 14:31 Expansion of Tasmanian Wine 15:21 Current Aussie Consumer Trends 15:22 How Stuart Got Into Wine 24:49 From London to Level 41 to Fix 27:12 The Dine & Drink Licence Shift 33:17 The "Cheers" Philosophy 33:58 State of the Sydney Wine Bar Scene 41:44 Tasting: Vino Volta Grenache 43:00 Food Pairing Challenge 46:30 Do Sydney Bars Support NSW Wine Enough? 51:30 Why Fix Doesn’t Focus on “Big Names” 53:16 Wine List Anxiety Explained 55:58 Why You Should Always Reveal Your Budget 57:00 The Reality of Money & Wine 58:56 Inside The Real Review 01:04:35 How to Learn About Wine 01:07:22 Final Reflections & Thank You #StuartKnox #FixWineBar #Sydneywine #AustralianChardonnay #Australianwinescene #sommelierinterview #wineindustryAustralia #Sydneyrestaurants #winetasting #wineeducation #foodandwinepairing #winebarculture #TheRealReview #Australianwinemakers #ChardonnayAustralia #PinotNoirAustralia #wineinSydney #winecriticsAustralia #Australianwinestories #Sydneyhospitality Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    1h 7m
  6. Inside Campbells Wines: 155 Years with Jane Campbell

    NOV 15

    Inside Campbells Wines: 155 Years with Jane Campbell

    Send us a text Join us as we sit down with Jane Campbell, Managing Director of Campbells Wines, for a deep dive into 155 years of family winemaking in Rutherglen, Australia. From the legendary Bobbie Burns Shiraz to the world-famous Rutherglen Muscats and Topaques, Jane shares stories, lessons, and insights that define one of Australia’s most respected wineries. We talk about the origins of Campbells Wines, their Scottish roots, and how Jane and her sister Jules are shaping its future with innovation, sustainability, and a passion for authenticity. You’ll also hear about the secrets behind their fortified wines, the family’s approach to succession, and what makes Rutherglen’s terroir so special. If you love discovering the heritage behind great wines or planning your next Rutherglen winery visit, this conversation is a must-watch. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, collector, or casual drinker, Jane’s perspective offers a rare look into how tradition meets innovation in Australian winemaking. 📍 Visit Campbells Wines: https://www.campbellswines.com.au 🍷 Watch more wine stories here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWinedUp Follow Us on Instagram (The.Wined.Up) or TikTok (@thewinedup ). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au/ or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Chapters: 00:00 Intro: Why Rutherglen Muscat is Iconic 00:31 Welcome Jane Campbell – 155 Years of Winemaking 01:42 The Wined Up Icebreakers (first taste, Chardonnay love, QEII dream bottle) 06:37 Origin Story: From Gold Mine to Vines 08:32 Building the Winery & Early Struggles 11:20 Fifth Generation: Family, Succession & Legacy 15:16 Sisters in Wine: Roles Across Rutherglen & Barossa 17:48 Wine #1 – Trebbiano: Italian Roots & the “Trebio” Cat 19:23 Rutherglen Climate & Terroir (hot days, cool nights, loam) 24:11 Visiting Rutherglen: Stays, Eats & the Big Wine Bottle 29:47 Rhône Whites in Rutherglen (Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne) 32:07 Wine #2 – Bobbie Burns Shiraz: 50+ Vintages of a Classic 37:47 Muscat vs Topaque Explained (grapes, styles, flavors) 44:06 Inside the Solera: Layered Fortifieds & Merchant Prince 48:39 Trends, Fortifieds & Family Dynamics 52:33 Next Gen & Family Business Wisdom 55:52 Sustainability: Sheep, Soil & What’s Next 01:02:13 Final Reflections & Toast #CampbellsWines #JaneCampbellinterview #Rutherglenwineregion #Australianwine #familywinerystories #fortifiedwineAustralia #Muscatwine #Topaquewine #BobbieBurnsShiraz #winepodcast #winetastingAustralia #winemakinghistory #RutherglenMuscat #AustralianShiraz #heritagewinery #sustainablevineyards #JaneCampbellCampbellsWines #MuscatofRutherglen #visitRutherglen #winetourismAustralia Drink More, Try More, Learn More. Dri Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    1h 4m
  7. Banh Mi & $200 Wine Pairing Challenge with DAN HONG🥖🍷

    NOV 8

    Banh Mi & $200 Wine Pairing Challenge with DAN HONG🥖🍷

    Send us a text Today we’re pairing the iconic Vietnamese banh mi with three very different wines in a blind wine pairing challenge with legendary chef Dan Hong. You’ve seen Dan on MasterChef, The Streets, and at Mr. Wong, Ms G’s and El Loco — but today, we test his love of wine in the most unexpected way. We each choose a bottle under $200 and put it to the test with a classic Vietnamese banh mi to see which wine matches best with pâté, coriander, chilli, pork and pickles. Will it be a white, sparkling, or a red wine? The result surprised all of us. In this episode, we talk food, Burgundy, childhood snacks, Asian flavours, and Dan’s wine journey — along with his thoughts on wine and food pairing, collecting Burgundy, and why wine shouldn’t be taken too seriously. Come hang out, grab a banh mi, pour a glass, and enjoy the ride. If you love wine pairing, Asian food, banh mi, Burgundy, Champagne, or Dan Hong, you’ll love this one.  Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to  ⁨@TheWinedUp⁩   — and tell us in the comments: What wine would YOU pair with banh mi?  👇 Thank you to Dan Hong for taking the time to chat with us and share his love of wine and food.  We had a great time and a lot of laughs. Also try Banh Mi Bay Ngo at 49 Bankstown City Plaza, Bankstown, New South Wales 2200.  It was delicious! Follow Us on Instagram (The.Wined.Up) or TikTok (@thewinedup ). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au/ or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More #banhmi #danhong #winepairing #banhmiwinepairing #asianfoodandwine #vietnamesefood #champagnepairing #pinotnoirpairing #pinotgrispairing #Burgundywine ,#winechallenge #foodandwinepairing #bestwineforasianfood #sommeliertips #foodchallenge #banhmichallenge #chefdanhong #winelovers #wineyoutubechannel #pairingwinewithfood Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & guest reveal: Chef Dan Hong 00:30 – The Wined Up Icebreaker Questions 08:46 – The Banh Mi Challenge begins 🥖 10:44 – Wine A tasting & pairing reactions 15:54 – What’s in Dan Hong’s cellar 🍷 18:00 – Learning about wine through Instagram & sommeliers 23:20 – Wine B tasting & pairing reactions 25:34 – Top 3 Asian cuisines debate (Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese 🔥) 29:19 – Dan’s guilty pleasure Macca’s order 🍔 33:10 – Best wine pairings for Asian dishes 🍜 35:36 – Wine C tasting & pairing reactions 37:21 – Banh Mi variations & Sydney’s national sandwich 40:46 – Dan’s fitness routine & health balance 💪 45:29 – Best Pho & Vietnamese food spots in Sydney 51:55 – 80s baby food & nostalgia quiz 🎶 54:45 – Wine reveal & tasting verdict 59:37 – Dan’s final message on wine & life 🍷 01:00:57 – Outro | Drink More, Try More, Learn More Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    1h 1m
  8. Roman Roots & 120 Year Old Vines - Curtis Family Vineyard

    NOV 1

    Roman Roots & 120 Year Old Vines - Curtis Family Vineyard

    Send us a text Today, we’re diving into history you can taste—wines crafted from 120-year-old vines with roots stretching back to Roman times. Welcome to our unfiltered wine journey, where we explore the stories, tools, and techniques behind the glass. In this episode we’re reviewing Curtis Family Vineyard Wines from McLaren Vale. These bottles don’t just carry flavor; they carry centuries of tradition, tracing back to 1471 Italy and even the Roman Empire. Stick around for our Fast Five Fun Facts on Curtis Family Vineyards, and join us as we sip through a lineup of Grenache, Shiraz, and Cabernet Sauvignon from the heart of McLaren Vale. We’ll also put the Ah-So wine opener to the test—live—showing you how it stacks up against traditional corkscrews. Plus, we break down the science of how to properly smell wine (yes, even the double-nostril vs single-nostril debate) so you can level up your next tasting experience. Browse and shop wines from Curtis Family Vineyards at http://www.curtisfamilyvineyards.com 👉 Have you tried Curtis Family Vineyards or other McLaren Vale wines? Drop your recommendations in the comments. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more unapologetically unprofessional—but always passionate—wine adventures! Chapters  00:00 Intro – 120-Year-Old Vines & Roman Roots  01:20 Testing the Ah-So Wine Opener (Cork Saver)  05:00 Wine Nerdery – Fast Five Fun Facts About the Ah-So  07:30 How to Properly Smell Wine (Science & Techniques)  15:25 Curtis Family Vineyards – Roman History & McLaren Vale Terroir  19:30 Tasting Notes: Grenache Shiraz Blend  22:28 Tasting Notes: Cavalier Cabernet Sauvignon  26:00 Final Thoughts & Call to Action #wine #winetasting #oldvines #mclarenvale #shiraz #cabernetsauvignon #grenache #australianwine #curtisfamilyvineyards #ancientvines #winehistory #romanhistory #sommelier #winesnob #winelover #winereview #redwine #winescience #ahsowineopener #wineeducation Follow Us on YouTube (@TheWinedUp), Instagram (The.Wined.Up), Tik Tok (@TheWinedUp), Spotify (The Wined Up), Amazon Music ( TheWinedUp), and Apple Podcasts (The Wined Up). Visit our website https://www.thewinedup.com.au or email us at info@thewinedup.com.au. Drink More, Try More, Learn More.

    32 min
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About

Drink More , Try More, Learn More - Two mates tasting, learning, and sharing their experiences with wine from an unapologetically unprofessional perspective.

Information

  • Creator
    The Wined Up
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    134
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Wined Up
  • Show Website
    The Wined Up

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