TT Wine Explorer Podcast

Tania Tomaszewska
  • 5.0 (5)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Having made the shift from “banking lawyer” to “wine professional”, Tania Tomaszewska speaks with an array of business owners, policy experts, beverage industry specialists, winemakers, chefs, travellers and everyday consumers alike - from her native British Columbia, Canada and beyond. The TT Wine Explorer Podcast is not really about wine - but rather, it's a series of Tania's conversations as she explores where the worlds of business, entrepreneurship, people, travel, wine, curiosity and senses meet. Based in Vancouver, Tania Tomaszewska is a strategic business advisor regarding wine industry matters. With a Bachelor of Arts, LL.B and Master of International Relations in hand, Tania jumped into wine through extensive travels, her own “anecdotal” training and Wine & Spirits Education Trust qualifications.

  1. Episode 26: Foodie Postcard from Las Vegas Arts District & Northern Spain! (with Cheftimony)

    FEB 17

    Episode 26: Foodie Postcard from Las Vegas Arts District & Northern Spain! (with Cheftimony)

    This is a “postcard” episode for foodies. Tania joins Graham MacLennan on his Cheftimony podcast to swap  tales and tips from their recent food adventures in the Arts District, Las Vegas and Zarautz, Northern Spain: two very different destinations! First, Tania dives into bites, sips and walks around the up and coming “Arts District” neighbourhood of Las Vegas. Beyond the famous Vegas Strip, the Arts District is a totally different world and THE spot right now for Vegas locals and visitors alike looking to hang out in a totally different layer of Sin City. It’s about small, independent cafés and restaurants, Tania’s favourite Mexican cocina, craft brew pubs, dive bars, vintage shops, community art galleries, and much, much more. Graham then shares culinary adventures from his recent home stay in the coastal town of Zarautz in northern Spain. Pintxos bars, grilled gambas, monk fish, black ink squid, grilled peppers and tapas are all on the menu. Planning your next trip to Basque country? Graham provides detailed field notes on cool local dining experiences in this pocket of the northern Spanish coast and foodie haven San Sebastian. And as you’ll hear, it’s ALL about the croquetas…. For more about Graham MacLennan/Cheftimony Podcast go to: Instagram @cheftimony cheftimony.com Chapters (00:00:00) - Wine Explorer: A Taste of Las Vegas(00:02:17) - It Has To Be One or the Other In Las Vegas(00:04:56) - Tanya and I just returned from... Spain(00:06:03) - Tonya Tomaszewska(00:06:47) - Walking back to Las Vegas(00:11:38) - Two cafes in Las Vegas' Arts District(00:16:05) - The world of Esther's in Vancouver(00:21:16) - Crazy Prices of Wine in Las Vegas(00:22:21) - Chef James' New Orleans Brasserie Bar Bohem(00:24:01) - The Roulette at Barbo M. Jacques in Las Vegas(00:27:14) - Taste Las Vegas' arts district(00:29:11) - TRAVEL VEGAS: Plans for Next Trip(00:30:21) - While in Spain, we visited the Basque region(00:32:46) - The life of a holiday in Spain(00:36:50) - San Sebastian(00:41:22) - Pintxos and Wine(00:42:44) - A Taste of Local Food in Vancouver(00:47:11) - A Year in the Life With Tanya(00:48:45) - Chef to Moni: Monkfish Dish

    51 min
  2. Episode 25: Mocktails - The Space & Place (Angela Hansen, Mocktails Alcohol Free Liquor Store)

    05/27/2025

    Episode 25: Mocktails - The Space & Place (Angela Hansen, Mocktails Alcohol Free Liquor Store)

    This episode is about creating a new space and redefining a drinking experience without alcohol. Tania is joined by Angela Hansen, founder and owner of Mocktails Alcoholic Free Liquor Store (Vancouver’s premier alcohol-free bottle shop) to discuss: How Angela’s store came to be. How she has created a beautiful, dedicated space which alcohol-free drinks deserve. Making interesting, non-alcoholic drinks accessible in an often confusing and fragmented market space. Who shops at Mocktails—from 20-somethings to 80-year-olds—and why the demand for non-alcoholic options is more diverse than you'd think. The rise of functional beverages, like adaptogen- and nootropic-infused drinks. The growth of niche, artisanal non-alcoholic brands from Canada and beyond. Why alcohol-free drinks often match or exceed the price of traditional drinks with alcohol, and the real value sought by customers. The “female-forward” energy of the sector and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people as you grow a purpose-driven business. Taking the leap to open a “brix and mortar” business in a sector completely new to you. This discussion is about creating something from nothing, and creating a place of connection in the analogue world. It’s about taking that idea of yours and just running with it. Don’t let fear stop you. For more about Angela and Mocktails Alcoholic Free Liquor Store: Instagram @mocktailsvancouver mocktails.ca. Go and visit! 1250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia. Chapters (00:00:00) - The Non-Alcohol Liquor Store at Mocktails(00:04:05) - Angela on Starting a Business With Mocktails(00:08:10) - Jumping In: Sarah's Business(00:09:54) - Starting a Business in 2017(00:15:19) - MRK Non-Alcohol Beverage(00:18:09) - Mixing adaptogens and nootropics(00:22:05) - What is the mix of wine buyers in your shop?(00:28:49) - Canada on the Non-Alcohol Store(00:34:54) - How To Launch a Startup With a Startup Business Plan(00:35:38) - Non-Alcohol Drinks(00:40:14) - Mocktails Vancouver: Where Do People Find You?(00:45:36) - Mocktails: Growing in popularity(00:47:04) - Jumping in With a Business Idea(00:49:50) - Mocktails for the Overeaters(00:50:55) - Mocktails: Vancouver's Non-Alcoholic Beverage

    52 min

  3. 04/06/2025

    Episode 24: “Changing the Channel” - Time to Finally Support Local & Pan-Canada (Laura Milnes, Crushable Wine Club)

    This episode is about disruption and just getting out there and doing it - whatever that “it” is for you. Wineprenuer (and self-described “anarcho-libertarian”) Laura Milnes (@crushablewineclub) joins Tania to discuss: • Laura’s “Pan-Canadian” online wine club “Crushable” and mission to introduce us to “under the radar” wines made by very small producers from across the country. • How we can, and should re-think our “wine buying patterns” to embrace local, buy small and step away from the mainstream to support our own supply chains and recapture “small town” ethos. • “Influencing” through content which Laura creates through her Instagram platform, “rants” and newsletters, and wines which she selects for the Crushable Wine Club. • Examples of local, artisanal producers from British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Newfoundland which Laura highlights with Crushable (which you may never have heard of before listening to this episode) and revisiting hybrid grapes. This discussion is about changing the channel on some of the “wine talk” swirling around us, and an industry player who brings a totally different and un-orthodox voice to the party. ----------------------- References from this episode: • For more on Laura Milnes and Crushable, find her on Instagram @crushablewineclub or go to her website www.crushable.club • Wineries discussed: Lightening Rock; Whispering Horse Winery; Venturi Schulze; Zanatta Winery; Fogolar Wines; Liebling Wines; Vignoble de la Bauge • TT Wine Explorer Podcast - Episode 10: Blocking Our Own Wine - What Happened to Free Trade in a Federation? (Mark Hicken, WineLaw.ca): https://ttwinecounsel.com/podcast/episode-10-blocking-our-own-wine-what-happened-to-free-trade-in-a-federation-the-legacy-of-prohibition-part-2-with-mark-hicken/

    52 min
  4. Episode 23: Tariff Talks “101” - Wine, Trade & Pain (in Canada and Beyond) (Karen Graham, KMG Strategy & WineDrops.ca)

    02/14/2025

    Episode 23: Tariff Talks “101” - Wine, Trade & Pain (in Canada and Beyond) (Karen Graham, KMG Strategy & WineDrops.ca)

    This episode is about wine, tariffs and trade relations. Public policy expert and business commentator on the Canadian wine industry, Karen Graham (KMG Strategy and www.winedrops.ca) joins Tania to discuss: • How tariffs levied by the United States on Canadian goods may affect the wine and alcohol beverage industry and consumers (both in Canada and the US). • Potential knock-on effects of counter-veiling measures which Canadian levels of government may take in response to US tariffs. • The different approaches taken (to date) by Ontario and BC regarding American alcohol products in response to potential US tariffs. • Possible “silver linings”, including whether tariffs threatened by the US could instigate the dismantling Canada’s inter-provincial trade barriers. • Consequences of potential US tariffs levied against the EU, and the role of the WTO (if any) in bilateral trade wars flowing from US tariffs. Camaraderie around wine is borderless. And ultimately no one wins with tariffs. It’s a time to look back at the history and rationale of free trade. But it’s also a time for Canada to look forward and unleash more of its own innovation, productivity and potential. ----------------------- References & Articles from this episode: • For more on Karen Graham, go to www.winedrops.ca • BC Liquor Distribution Branch Quarterly Sales: Q3 2024-25 Liquor Market Review December 2024 • Eric Asimov article, American Wine Trade Steels Itself for Possible Tariffs, Nov 13, 2024, New York Times. • California Wine Institute Statement Press Release: Wine Institute Urges Resolution of US-Canada Dispute, Feb 2, 2025 • WineDrops post on the Comeau Supreme Court of Canada decision: One ticket for 354 bottles of “imported” beer, September 2017. • WineDrops post: WTO Wine Trade Challenge Implications, February 2017. • TT Wine Explorer Podcast - Episode 10: Blocking Our Own Wine - What Happened to Free Trade in a Federation? (Mark Hicken, WineLaw.ca): https://ttwinecounsel.com/podcast/episode-10-blocking-our-own-wine-what-happened-to-free-trade-in-a-federation-the-legacy-of-prohibition-part-2-with-mark-hicken/ • TT Wine Explorer Podcast - Episode 18: Cross-Border Crush: Importing Grapes & Moving Forward (Alison Moyes, Solvero Winery): https://ttwinecounsel.com/podcast/episode-18-cross-border-crush-importing-grapes-moving-forward-alison-moyes-solvero-winery-okanagan-valley/

    1h 16m
  5. Episode 22: “Front of House” - Building a Restaurant Wine & Drinks List (Josh Carlson, Wine Director, Provence Marinaside)

    01/16/2025

    Episode 22: “Front of House” - Building a Restaurant Wine & Drinks List (Josh Carlson, Wine Director, Provence Marinaside)

    This episode takes us “front of house” with Josh Carlson, Wine Director of Provence Marinaside in Vancouver, British Columbia. During this wide-ranging conversation, Josh and Tania discuss: • Josh’s path into the restaurant and wine world, and how he has built Provence’s deep cellar and one of Vancouver’s longest “by the glass” wine lists. • The relationship between restaurant and patron, and striking the right balance so that each guest feels comfortable and finds a wine for them. • Wine preservation systems, “wine in keg”, the Covid-19 legacy for “take out” dining and other business tool shifts. • The growing non-alc and low-alc space, Provence’s diverse “sans alc”/ zero-proof beverage list, and how non-alc drinks can pair with food. • Exploring Napa & Oregon for new gems on the list. In its convivial and relaxed space, Provence hosts a wide range of winemaker dinners and a special private cellar series. Josh chats about their upcoming “Exploring Wines of Croatia” wine dinner (taking place during the 2025 Vancouver International Wine Fest) and an exclusive private experience with Burgundian winemakers Pierre-Yves Colin and Caroline Morey. You can learn more about Provence, their food and wine program and Josh Carlson at: www.provencemarinaside.ca. Or better yet, just head to Provence for brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner or one of their weekly Jazz night to enjoy a glass and chat with Josh and his team.

    54 min
  6. Episode 21: BC Wine Industry 2024 "Roundup" (Megan O'Neill, Farris LLP)

    12/17/2024

    Episode 21: BC Wine Industry 2024 "Roundup" (Megan O'Neill, Farris LLP)

    This “roundup” episode is about the key BC Wine Industry news stories from 2024 - from a legal perspective. It’s a “101” on certain rules and regulations which govern how we make, market, sell, buy or taste wine here in British Columbia - and how these rules operate as the wine industry navigates serious challenges not only around farming, but also running a business in the current economic climate. Megan O’Neill joins as episode guest to navigate this 2024 Roundup. Megan is a Senior Associate at Farris LLP, a Vancouver-based law firm, which also has an office in wine country Kelowna. Megan is a corporate M&A lawyer who has a depth of experience working with BC Wine Industry matters. Tania and Megan discuss 2024’s “replacement vintage”, BC’s wine trade war with Alberta, onsite tastings at wineries or on restaurant outdoor patios, the potential of developing wine country into a more integrated tourism destination, and the overall state of the industry from a transactional M & A point of view. And more. This episode is for wine industry people, everyday consumers or anyone interested in business. Articles/links mentioned during this show: • About Megan O’Neill: LinkedIn and Farris LLP Profile • Selling a California Winery? Get Ready for a Reality Check (Felicity Carter) https://www.meiningers-international.com/wine/insights/selling-californian-winery-get-ready-reality-check • Cross-Border Crush: Importing Grapes & Moving Forward (Alison Moyes, Solvero Winery)(Episode 18, TT Wine Explorer Podcast) https://ttwinecounsel.com/podcast/episode-18-cross-border-crush-importing-grapes-moving-forward-alison-moyes-solvero-winery-okanagan-valley/ • Blocking Our Own Wine – What Happened to Free Trade in a Federation? (Mark Hicken, WineLaw.ca)(Episode 10, TT Wine Explorer Podcast) https://ttwinecounsel.com/podcast/episode-10-blocking-our-own-wine-what-happened-to-free-trade-in-a-federation-the-legacy-of-prohibition-part-2-with-mark-hicken/ • Putting (and Keeping) the Okanagan Valley on the Wine Map (John Skinner, Painted Rock Estate Winery)(Episode 9, TT Wine Explorer Podcast) https://ttwinecounsel.com/podcast/episode-9-putting-and-keeping-the-okanagan-valley-on-the-wine-map-john-skinner-painted-rock-estate-winery/

    56 min
  7. Episode 20: The Anti-Alcohol Movement: "No Safe Amount"? (Mark Hicken, WineLaw.ca)

    12/03/2024

    Episode 20: The Anti-Alcohol Movement: "No Safe Amount"? (Mark Hicken, WineLaw.ca)

    This episode is about the anti-alcohol movement and efforts by certain advocacy groups who claim that there is “No Safe Amount” of alcohol which we can enjoy. There’s been increased discussion in the news and health publications recently about the risks of drinking alcohol, and how we shouldn’t drink more than two alcoholic drinks PER WEEK (despite current recommended guidelines which suggest no more than two drinks per day). What’s going on here? Canadian liquor law and policy expert Mark Hicken (www.WineLaw.ca) returns to the show to discuss what (and who) is driving the “No Safe Amount” position, and how we should assess the veracity of information relied upon by anti-alcohol advocates who are making health claims. Tania and Mark discuss the role of scientific methodology in the context of liquor policy making and public health guidance, the potential resurgence of “nanny state” intervention, how much our provincial government’s coffers (and monopoly arm) gets from the sale of each bottle of wine which we buy, the role of individual risk assessment, and more. Articles mentioned by Mark: • Anti-Alcohol Nonsense Part 1: Only Pay Attention to Good Science (Mark Hicken) https://www.winelaw.ca/2024/10/18/3-reasons-to-ignore-anti-alcohol-nonsense-1-only-pay-attention-to-good-science/ • Anti-Alcohol Nonsense Part 2: Don’t Listen to Biased Sources (Mark Hicken) https://www.winelaw.ca/2024/11/19/anti-alcohol-nonsense-part-2-dont-listen-to-biased-sources/ • The Wine Gourd - There are NO scientific experiments saying: don’t drink alcohol https://winegourd.blogspot.com/2024/10/there-are-no-scientific-experiments.html • The Wine Gourd - Has the WHO lost its way regarding alcohol? https://winegourd.blogspot.com/2024/08/has-who-lost-its-way-regarding-alcohol.html • What the Headlines Get Wrong About Alcohol and Health (Dr Laura Catena) https://daily.sevenfifty.com/what-the-headlines-get-wrong-about-alcohol-and-health/ • Is Alcohol Good or Bad for You? Yes. (Harvard Public Health) https://harvardpublichealth.org/policy-practice/is-alcohol-bad-for-you-or-is-alcohol-good-for-you-yes/

    56 min
  8. Episode 19: The Rise of NOLO (Side Bar with Graham MacLennan, Cheftimony)

    11/01/2024

    Episode 19: The Rise of NOLO (Side Bar with Graham MacLennan, Cheftimony)

    This episode is about the trending NOLO space - the world of “non-alc” and “low- alc” drinks. Returning guest Graham MacLennan (creator and producer of the Cheftimony Podcast) joins Tania to discuss their respective explorations in the NOLO world, and to share their observations about what’s working (and not working) in the non-alc and low-alc landscape. What’s driving the expansion of the “no” and “low” markets? How do we look at pricing and value in the context of a non-alc or low-alc drink (as compared to a libation containing alcohol)? How does this all work in the art of pairing food and wine, if you’re looking to swap out the wine part? And importantly, what’s the future of wine’s place in the context of an exploding non-alcoholic product market? Tania discusses some of the “existential angst” being felt in parts of the alcohol beverage sector arising from very strong Neo-Prohibitionist currents seeking to push wine off our tables. Ultimately, it’s all about balance, choice and human connectivity. Graham and Tania discuss how all three of these elements may be achieved, no matter what we choose to pour into our glass, through continuing to embrace our stories and rituals.

    51 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Having made the shift from “banking lawyer” to “wine professional”, Tania Tomaszewska speaks with an array of business owners, policy experts, beverage industry specialists, winemakers, chefs, travellers and everyday consumers alike - from her native British Columbia, Canada and beyond. The TT Wine Explorer Podcast is not really about wine - but rather, it's a series of Tania's conversations as she explores where the worlds of business, entrepreneurship, people, travel, wine, curiosity and senses meet. Based in Vancouver, Tania Tomaszewska is a strategic business advisor regarding wine industry matters. With a Bachelor of Arts, LL.B and Master of International Relations in hand, Tania jumped into wine through extensive travels, her own “anecdotal” training and Wine & Spirits Education Trust qualifications.

Information

  • Creator
    Tania Tomaszewska
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 TT Wine Explorer Ltd
  • Show Website
    TT Wine Explorer Podcast