Bottled in China Emilie Steckenborn

Today we discuss the advancements of nanotechnology in wine with Dr Sachinadri Rana.

Nanotechnology is a branch of technology that focuses on producing, designing, and using objects or systems by manipulating atoms and molecules at nanoscale.

In today’s podcast episode, we are thrilled to provide more insight into the wine production process with Dr Sachinadri Rana, Ph.D., an expert Wine Researcher at the Bragato Research Institute. With ten years of experience in the wine industry and a doctorate in biotechnology, Dr Sachi’s acute understanding of nanotechnology in grape growing and winemaking is a thrilling treat for today’s viticulture discussion.

Ultimately, the use of nanotechnology in winemaking contributes to the reduction of environmental impact and improved agricultural sustainability in grapevine growth and harvest. Join us in this exclusive episode as we explore how the study of nanotechnology serves winemakers around the world with Dr Sachi.

The story of wine is a colorful one.

Today, more funds and nonprofits are cropping up to promote the inclusivity of marginalized groups in the wine culture at large. One of those efforts, The Roots Fund, is looking to secure a pathway for the future of wine for those who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color.

Today, we talk with the founder of The Roots Fund, Ikimi Dubose about the importance of mentorship and leadership.

When we sat down with Ikimi, we asked her what prompted her to start the fund, what “inclusivity” really means, and what the Roots Fund membership program entails. She dives deep into why mentorship means so much to her, as well as why it’s vital to have passionate, respectful, inclusive mentors in the wine industry. Plus, Ms. Dubose lets us in on her steps to leverage a mentor for wine career progression. Finally, she gives us the top three tips she’d tell younger Ikimi about getting into the food and business industry.

The future of wine starts here with The Roots Fund and everything Ikimi Dubose stands for.

In 2023, Raimonds Tomsons was crowned The Best Sommelier of the World and also Best Sommelier of Europe 2017 by the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (A.S.I).
 
Throughout this fascinating conversation, we go deep into Raimonds story, including his origins at the renowned Vincents restaurant, his journey in wine as well as the trial and tribulations to reach the pinnacle of his profession.

Today, this very special guest details the many powerful lessons he has learned during his unforgettable journey of passion, triumph, and dedication.

We further discuss the world’s leading Sommelier competition and how it covers everything from vegan pairings to non-alcoholic recommendations, and how to accurately price a wine menu.

As the director of Barents Wine Collectors, a Decanter Wine World Awards judge, and a Star Wine Lists jury member, Raimonds is simply a wealth of wine wisdom.
 

In this jam-packed episode, we talk with Stefan about his journey through the Michelin-starred ranks like Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison by Raymond Blanc and The Fat Duck and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, where he achieved his MS designation in 2017. We then discuss his new online course, tips on blind tasting, whether “supertasters” exist, which varietals or regions get easily mixed up during MS studying, and more.

If you’re looking to become more knowledgeable about anything and everything wine, Stefan Neumann, MS, is a wonderful resource.

“Master Sommelier” is a moniker saved for the most expert wine tasters in the world. Training, studying, and blind-tasting are vital to achieving this goal. Luckily, Stefan Neumann, MS, is here to help wine students and professionals alike.

Born in Austria and based in London, Stefan is a consultant for many wine brands, including Graham’s, LVMH, and Austrian Wine Marketing. And he’s just launched his online blind-tasting course, helping aspiring sommeliers pass their wine exams and qualifications.

South Korea has a plethora of regional brews that are slowly finding their way internationally.

Today we speak with Carol Pak, Founder of Sool about her journey creating Makgeolli and Soju for the North American market .

A Columbia Business School MBA alum, Carol is a native New Yorker who wants to introduce the world to the magic of Korean spirits and elixirs. Previously part of ZX Ventures (owned by AB InBev), Carol developed a new beverage brand in China which opened her eyes to the possibility of introducing a new beverage category to the West. In 2017, she started Sool to globalize Korean alcoholic beverages.

In this podcast we will dive into the background and culture of the Korean alcohols Soju and Makgeolli, why she’s so passionate about this mission, the rise of K-pop and K-culture in general, and how she created Makku and Soku, the first American-crafted Makgeolli and Soju, respectively. An expert in the art of alcoholic product launches, Carol Pak is here to show that Korea should be top of mind the next time you’re looking to imbibe.

Join us as we explore the story behind Texas’s emerging wine industry in today’s episode.

Although California and Washington are often considered the main attractions for exquisite vineyards and wine production in the United States, the Lone Star State is an underdog of sorts in the world of wine.
As one of the oldest vine-growing states in America, the long, hot Texas summers are perfect for grape growing.

Today, this oenophile’s oasis holds approximately 4,000 acres of vineyards. In addition, about 443 wine producers reside in Texas, making the state a hot topic for wine connoisseurs.

In today’s episode, we will hear from Clay Roup, the Director of Education and a Curator at Texas Wine Club, as he delves into the details of winemaking in Texas.

We are covering everything from the best grape types for wine production to topical viticultural issues to the various wine styles sought after by many a wine-lover today. With professional intel about Texas boutique winemakers and general viticulture, Clay is well-equipped to educate us about wine production and distribution in the next big wine region.