EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT: A Wine Podcast Exploring Wine Regions, Grapes & Education

Janina Doyle
  • 4.5 (17)
  • Food
  • Updated Biweekly

Hey there! If you love wine, are curious about the world’s wine regions, or just want to geek out a little on grapes, terroir, and winemaking, you’re in the right place. This is a fun, educational wine podcast made for serious enthusiasts, wine students, and anyone who wants to fall in love with wine all over again. I chat with winemakers, sommeliers, and Masters of Wine who share their stories, tips, and insider knowledge - from their favourite regions and grapes to food pairings and the techniques that make each bottle special. Sometimes we open a bottle as we talk, sometimes I take you along on a 4-day itinerary I’ve mapped out from my travels, and sometimes we do quick-fire flashcard-style deep dives to test your wine knowledge - all in a way that’s engaging, uplifting, and never boring. Whether you’re working towards your WSET or MW exams, or just want to explore the world of wine with a glass in hand, this podcast is a place to laugh, learn, and celebrate the joy of wine. Come join our inclusive wine-loving community - there’s a story, a tip, or a tasting for everyone.

  1. 4d ago

    Ep 274 - What Does It Take to Become a Top Sommelier? Inside the UK Sommelier of the Year Competition with Emma Denney, 2026 Winner

    What does it actually take to become the UK Sommelier of the Year? And how do the world's best sommeliers blind taste wine under pressure? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina sits down with Emma Denney, the newly crowned UK Sommelier of the Year 2026 and Director of Wine at Claridge's, to go behind the scenes of elite sommelier competition, blind tasting and fine wine service. Emma takes us inside the competition - from identifying grape varieties, regions and vintages in a blind tasting, to recognising wine faults by aroma alone, tackling food and wine pairing and serving Champagne under pressure. She also explains how professional sommeliers build their tasting knowledge, read the clues in a glass and develop the confidence to make decisions quickly. But this isn't just an episode about becoming a sommelier. Emma is a brilliant guide to some of the wine world's most fascinating regions and producers. We dive into Champagne and grower Champagne, Northern Rhône Syrah and Hermitage, Jumilla Monastrell, Ningxia Riesling, Margaret River and New Zealand Pinot Grigio, with plenty of bottles and wine travel ideas to add to your list. You'll also learn what RM and NM mean on Champagne labels, why Champagne's chalk soils matter, what Coteaux Champenois is, how lees ageing and late disgorgement affect Champagne, how to recognise common wine faults such as Brett, cork taint and oxidation, and why some of the world's most exciting wines are coming from places you might not expect. So whether you're already deep into wine, studying for a qualification, improving your blind tasting or simply looking for your next bottle, region or wine trip to explore, this episode is packed with things to taste, learn and investigate.   Shownotes 02:30 – What does it take to become UK Sommelier of the Year? Emma reflects on winning the competition and the preparation behind it.  05:03 – The Champagne that started it all — how one bottle sparked Emma's passion for wine and hospitality.  07:06 – Best value wine at Claridge's — Emma's recommendation: Casa Castillo Monastrell from Jumilla.  08:41 – Why Jumilla deserves more attention — modern Monastrell, old vines and one of Spain's most exciting wine regions. 09:27 – Unexpected wines at Claridge's — why Emma champions Canaan Riesling from Ningxia, China. 12:42 – Worth every penny — Emma highlights Northern Rhône legends René Rostaing and Jean-Louis Chave, explaining why mature Syrah can rival the world's finest wines. 14:12 – If money were no object — why Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage remains Emma's dream bottle. 15:52 – A must-visit wine destination — why every wine lover should experience Hermitage and the Northern Rhône. 19:23 – The best part of being a sommelier — introducing guests to new wines and sharing unforgettable wine experiences. 20:54 – Inside the theory exam — the extraordinary breadth of knowledge required to become UK Sommelier of the Year. 22:45 – Lessons from Vincenzo Arnese — how one piece of advice about listening carefully became Emma's biggest competitive advantage during the competition. 23:36 – Blind tasting without tasting — identifying wine faults using aroma alone during the competition semi-final. 25:30 – Recognising common wine faults — Brett, cork taint, oxidation, volatile acidity and how sommeliers train their senses. 27:53 – Train your nose like a sommelier — Emma discusses common wine faults, while Janina recommends Le Nez du Vin aroma and fault kits for improving your tasting skills.  30:26 – Spotting mistakes on a wine list — how sommeliers identify incorrect vintages, appellations and producer details under pressure. 31:13 – How to start a blind tasting — Emma explains the first clues sommeliers look for.  32:03 – Reading the clues in the glass — alcohol, oak, climate and terroir cues that help identify grape varieties and wine origins. 34:34 – Food and wine pairing under pressure — how Emma approached one of the competition's toughest practical service challenges. 37:05 – The visual challenge — recognising legendary winemakers, vineyards and wine tools from a single image. 38:12 – Caroline Frey's Swiss wines — Emma discusses the acclaimed winemaker's latest project beyond Bordeaux and the Rhône. 40:31 – The Champagne pouring challenge — one Jeroboam, twenty-four glasses and one of the competition's most nerve-racking tasks. 43:15 – Why Krug is so revered — barrel ageing, reserve wines and the philosophy behind one of Champagne's greatest houses. 44:46 – Champagne producers to discover — Emma recommends Eric Rodez and explains why grower Champagne deserves more attention. 48:07 – The Champagne riots of 1911 — how protests helped shape today's appellation system. 48:54 – What is sur pointe? — understanding long lees ageing and late disgorgement in Champagne. 50:01 – RM vs NM Champagne: What do the letters on Champagne labels mean?  51:32 – Why does Champagne have chalk soils? Understanding drainage, roots and Champagne's terroir.  52:26 – Who invented sparkling wine? — Christopher Merret and the origins of traditional method sparkling wine. 53:50 – Coteaux Champenois explained — discovering the still wines of Champagne and why they deserve more attention. 54:55 – Egly-Ouriet's still wines — the renowned Cuvée des Grands Côtés  55:14 – Pre-phylloxera Champagne — why Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Françaises remains one of the world's rarest wines. 56:17 – Margaret River — why this remote Australian wine region belongs on every wine lover's travel bucket list. 58:46 – Pinot Grigio deserves a second chance — why New Zealand is producing some of the world's most exciting examples - such as Greywacke Pinot Gris. 📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list.

  2. Aug 3

    Ep 273 – Oregon Wine Beyond Pinot Noir: The Regions, Grapes & Wines You Need to Know with Samantha Cole-Johnson

    Think Oregon is all about Pinot Noir? Think again. In this episode I'm joined by Samantha Cole-Johnson, Senior US Editor at JancisRobinson.com and the Master of Wine student who achieved the highest mark in the world in Stage One of the notoriously challenging MW programme, to uncover the side of Oregon that most people never discover.  From cross-border wine regions that ignore state lines to savoury Syrah grown on basalt cobblestones, richer styles of Pinot Gris and a brand-new sparkling wine movement, this episode will completely change the way you think about Oregon. Along the way, we also discuss what the future of wine might look like - and why the biggest challenge facing the wine industry may have nothing to do with wine itself. You'll discover why the Rocks District produces some of America's most distinctive Syrah, why Oregon's Pinot Gris deserves far more attention, how Method Oregon is putting the state's sparkling wines on the map, and the producers and wine regions that should be firmly on your travel wishlist. So, if you're ready to look beyond Pinot Noir, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and enjoy this episode. Shownotes 03:05 – Learning how to communicate wine — how Samantha’s experience in cellars, formal study and wine journalism shaped the way she tastes, writes and speaks about wine today. 05:54 – Do state lines matter in wine? — why geographical boundaries rarely determine wine style, but can have important legal and commercial consequences for producers. 06:53 – Understanding the Columbia Gorge — how rainfall and temperature change dramatically from west to east across this cross-border Oregon and Washington AVA. 08:36 – Visiting the Columbia Gorge — why Portland makes an ideal starting point for exploring its wineries, cycling trails, breweries and famous windsurfing. 09:26 – Inside the Rocks District — what makes this tiny Oregon AVA’s basalt cobblestones and distinctive soils unlike almost anywhere else in the United States. 10:40 – The unmistakable Rocks District flavour — how low acidity, heat and saline soils can create Syrah with savoury, ferrous, rosemary and cured-meat characters. 11:22 – Why Grenache is thriving — the grape varieties performing particularly well in the Rocks District’s hot, dry and intensely sunny conditions. 13:41 – The problem with Rocks District labelling — why many wines grown inside the AVA must legally be labelled as Walla Walla when they are made across the border in Washington. For a deeper dive into Washington State wine, listen to Episode 271 with Chris Stone and Avril Mooney from the Washington State Wine Commission. 15:37 – Cayuse Vineyards and Christophe Baron — why one of the Rocks District’s most celebrated producers chooses not to place the AVA name on his labels. 17:49 – Christophe Baron and Cayuse — why one of the Rocks District's pioneering winemakers chooses not to feature the AVA name on his labels.  18:44 – How to identify wines from the Rocks — why a Walla Walla label does not guarantee Rocks District fruit and what wine lovers should investigate before buying. Producer to look out for who trained with Christophe Baron - Matt Reynvaan of Reynvaan Family Vineyards 20:40 – Oregon beyond the Willamette Valley — exploring the smaller wine regions and cross-border AVAs that exist beyond the state’s best-known centre of production. 21:25 – Why small producers rarely reach export markets — how direct-to-consumer sales in cities such as Seattle and Boise can leave little incentive for wineries to export. 23:23 – Oregon’s artisanal wine culture — how the state developed around small-scale wineries, hands-on farming and producers working with limited resources. 25:32 – Is Oregon wine becoming more commercial? — how new investment, vineyard management companies and larger businesses are changing the region’s traditional identity. 27:23 – Why American wine can be expensive — the impact of land prices, debt, staffing, healthcare, investors and corporate structures on the final cost of a bottle. 30:29 – Looking beyond the romance of winemaking — the economic reality behind owning vineyards, employing staff and running a sustainable family wine business. 31:18 – The authentic small-winery experience — why visiting working producers may involve muddy cellars, vineyard trucks and less glamour, but far greater access to the people behind the wine. 34:53 – Small wineries versus large production — why Oregon still has far more small producers, even as a growing proportion of its wine is made by larger companies. 35:49 – Oregon beyond Pinot Noir — discovering Tempranillo, Bordeaux varieties, Gamay, Chardonnay and the diversity emerging across the state. 38:46 – Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio? — why Oregon producers use both names and how the label can indicate whether a wine is inspired by Alsace or northern Italy. 39:41 – The classic Oregon Pinot Gris style — fresh, mineral and fruit-driven wines from producers such as King Estate and Sokol Blosser. 40:09 – A richer side of Oregon Pinot Gris — Ridgecrest, The Eyrie and Antiquum Farm demonstrate how old vines, skin contact and oak can create more textured, age-worthy wines. 42:25 – Comparing Alsace and northern Italy — the differences between richer, more powerful Alsace Pinot Gris and the fresher, leaner styles commonly associated with Italian Pinot Grigio. 43:46 – What matters most for Oregon Pinot Gris — why old vines, warmer vineyard sites and individual producers may be more important than any particular AVA. 44:38 – Introducing Method Oregon — the new initiative establishing rules for traditional-method sparkling wine made entirely from sustainably grown Oregon fruit. 46:08 – How Oregon sparkling wine is made — the specialist services helping still-wine producers manage secondary fermentation, riddling and disgorgement. 47:55 – Oregon’s leading sparkling wine producers — the history of Argyle and Soter, and the new vineyards being planted specifically for traditional-method sparkling wine. 49:44 – Developments shaping the future of wine — lower-alcohol fermentation, de-alcoholised wine, growing demand for white and sparkling styles and greater interest in environmental certification. 51:00 – Is declining socialisation hurting wine? — Samantha’s theory that remote working, screen time and fewer shared meals may be more important than generational drinking trends. 52:23 – Wine as a social experience — why encouraging people to gather, connect and spend longer around the table could be essential to the future of the wine industry. 54:04 – Barbecue wine recommendations — Samantha recommends Bedrock Wine Co. for outstanding Zinfandel, alongside lighter chillable reds for relaxed outdoor gatherings. 55:23 – Pairing wine with hand-holding — why Samantha chooses a lower-alcohol Txakoli rosé for an experience that has nothing to do with food. 📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list.

  3. Jul 27

    Ep 272 - Counterfeit Wine & Wine Fraud: Could Your Wine Be Fake? With Maureen Downey

    What if that expensive bottle of wine you've just bought isn't what you think it is? In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores the fascinating - and often shocking - world of counterfeit wine and wine fraud with Maureen Downey, one of the world's leading authorities on wine authentication, provenance and fraud. From fake bottles of Burgundy and First Growth Bordeaux to the infamous Rudy Kurniawan wine fraud scandal, Maureen reveals how counterfeit wine enters the market, which wines are most commonly faked, and how experts determine whether a bottle is genuine. You'll discover how wine experts authenticate suspicious bottles using forensic techniques including the examination of labels, paper, glass, UV light, invisible inks and microscopic analysis. We also explore why wine provenance - the documented history of a bottle's ownership, storage and journey through the market - is so important when buying fine wine. Maureen explains how organised crime has become involved in wine fraud, why even experienced collectors can be deceived, and how technology, blockchain and bottle registration could help protect the wine trade in the future. She also shares practical advice on how to buy fine wine with greater confidence and reduce the risk of purchasing a counterfeit bottle. Along the way, Maureen shares the wines and producers that inspire her today, including Burgundy, Champagne and Jura Chardonnay, reveals why the Côte Chalonnaise is one of the world's most underrated wine regions, and explains why every serious wine lover should experience the food and wine of Piedmont at least once. Whether you're a fine wine collector, an enthusiastic wine lover, planning a wine trip, or simply curious about how to tell if a bottle of wine is authentic, this episode may completely change the way you look at every bottle you buy. To know more, go to winefraud.com Maureen's educational platform dedicated to wine fraud, authentication and provenance.  Shownotes 03:09 – How Maureen discovered wine — why she deliberately began studying wine at just 18 years old and the experiences that sparked a lifelong passion for wine. 05:00 – From hospitality to fine wine — how working in some of New York's greatest restaurants shaped Maureen's early wine career before an unexpected move into wine auctions. 06:44 – Why wine auctions are the ultimate classroom — how working with thousands of bottles from every producer, region and vintage became the ultimate way to learn about wine. 09:40 – Discovering counterfeit wine — the moment Maureen realised wine fraud was far more widespread than anyone in the industry openly discussed. 14:24 – How common is counterfeit wine? — why fake wines exist at every price point, from supermarket shelves to the world's most valuable fine wines. 16:28 – Which wines are most commonly faked? — exploring the different types of wine fraud, from commercial brands to First Growth Bordeaux, Burgundy and rare collectors' bottles. 21:50 – Fighting wine theft — how provenance, blockchain technology and bottle registration could help protect collectors and reduce wine crime. 28:43 – How experts authenticate wine — the forensic techniques used to identify counterfeit bottles, from paper, labels and glass to UV light, invisible inks and microscopic analysis. 32:05 – Bottles that almost fooled the experts — why authentication is a collaborative process and how experienced specialists work together to verify authenticity. 34:14 – The most sophisticated counterfeit wines — how modern counterfeiters have become increasingly advanced and why producers continue adapting their anti-fraud measures. 35:11 – The funniest counterfeit attempt — one of the most unbelievable fake wine cases Maureen has ever encountered and why it was impossible to take seriously. 36:32 – The truth about Rudy Kurniawan — separating myth from reality behind the world's most infamous wine fraudster and the network that supported him. 40:59 – Lessons from investigating wine fraud — what years spent exposing counterfeit wines taught Maureen about trust, psychology and human nature. 43:19 – Buying wine with confidence — practical advice on provenance, trusted merchants and why Maureen founded Chai Consulting to help collectors and consumers buy fine wine with confidence. 47:03 – The wines inspiring Maureen today — why Burgundy, Champagne and Jura Chardonnay remain favourites, plus standout producers including Krug, Domaine Hubert Lamy, Domaine J.F. Mugnier, and Argentina's Bodega Chacra. 49:22 – The world's most underrated wine region — why the Côte Chalonnaise deserves far more attention from wine lovers. 50:50 – A wine experience every enthusiast should have — why eating and drinking in Piedmont belongs on every serious wine lover's bucket list. 📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list.

  4. Jul 20

    Ep 271 - Washington State Wine: The Ultimate Wine Road Trip Through America's Hidden Gem

    In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores Washington State wine - discovering the best wine regions, wineries and grapes that make this one of America's most exciting wine destinations. Joined by Chris Stone and Averyl Mooney from the Washington State Wine Commission, they uncover what makes Washington wine unique, from the famous Columbia Valley and Walla Walla wine regions to ancient flood soils, volcanic landscapes, dramatic climate contrasts and the diverse AVAs producing exceptional wines. Discover why Washington State has become one of the world's most dynamic wine destinations, how its geography shapes the style and quality of its wines, and why a Washington wine road trip belongs on every wine lover's bucket list. From the Cascade Mountains and the rain shadow effect to high-desert vineyards and remarkable terroir, this episode is packed with insights for anyone wanting to learn about wine, deepen their wine education, or plan an unforgettable wine travel adventure. Along the way, Janina tastes some of Washington's most exciting wines, including Riesling, Gamay, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, while exploring the producers shaping the future of Washington wine. From iconic wineries to emerging voices, discover the stories, regions and people behind one of America's most fascinating wine destinations. Whether you're discovering Washington wine for the first time or already love American wine, this episode is your guide to the wine regions, grapes, wineries and landscapes that make Washington State one of the world's most exciting wine destinations.   Shownotes 02:34 – Your first stop in Washington State — why Woodinville Wine Country is the perfect introduction to Washington wine before heading into the vineyards. 05:25 – Château Ste. Michelle's legacy — how Washington's pioneering winery helped build the modern wine industry and inspired hundreds of producers. 08:09 – Why Seattle is so green — the Cascade Mountains, rainfall and the dramatic climate contrast that defines Washington State. 09:54 – The Cascade Mountains explained — how the rain shadow creates ideal conditions for growing world-class wine grapes across Eastern Washington. 11:32 – Crossing the state — driving from lush forests into high-desert landscapes and why Washington is one of the world's most visually diverse wine regions. 13:23 – Washington's signature wine grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Riesling, Chardonnay and the incredible diversity of more than 90 grape varieties. 15:33 – Understanding Washington's AVAs — why each American Viticultural Area offers its own unique terroir, climate and wine styles. 17:46 – Eroica Riesling — from Château Ste. Michelle & Dr. Loosen — Janina tastes the 2022 vintage of this iconic Washington State Riesling collaboration. (NY Wines - £20.95) For more on Dr Loosen listen to Episode 218 with guest Ernst Loosen. 19:29 – Ancient Lakes AVA — dramatic canyon landscapes, glacial flood history and why this cool-climate region produces exceptional Riesling. 21:16 – Dry or off-dry Riesling? — producer style, natural acidity and why Washington Riesling continues to evolve. 22:29 – Washington's dramatic diurnal shift — how warm days and cool nights preserve freshness, balance and aromatics. 24:24 – The Missoula Floods explained — the geological events that shaped Washington's famous vineyard soils. 28:32 – Columbia Gorge AVA — where maritime influence meets desert conditions to create one of Washington's most distinctive wine regions. 30:47 – Beyond Columbia Valley — Puget Sound, Lake Chelan and Rocky Reach AVAs showcase Washington's remarkable diversity. 33:01 – Syncline Gamay 2022 — Janina discovers a vibrant expression of Gamay from Columbia Gorge and why it's worth seeking out. $45 from Syncline Winery 35:31 – Washington's remarkable growth — from just a handful of wineries to more than 1,000 producers driven by collaboration and innovation. 39:01 – Why Washington's future is so exciting — affordable land, experimentation and endless opportunities for new wine styles. 39:59 – Dineen Vineyards Syrah 2021— Janina explores Yakima Valley Syrah and how site influences style and expression. $47 from Dineen Vineyards (2023) 41:43  – Kiona Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 — one of Washington's pioneering wineries and the AVA famous for powerful Cabernet Sauvignon. $36 from Kiona (2022) 44:52 – Outstanding value wines — why Washington consistently delivers world-class quality across every price point. 46:50 – Walla Walla wine travel — restaurants, tasting rooms, history and why this should be on every wine lover's itinerary. 49:08 – Grosgrain Grenache GrosgrainVineyard 2022 — a new generation of minimal-intervention winemaking bringing fresh energy to Washington wine. £32 for Columbia Valley Grenache 2023 from Grosgrain Vineyards. 50:36 – Grosgrain's story — how Matt and Kelly Austin left previous careers to create one of Washington's most exciting boutique wineries. 53:37 – L'Ecole No. 41 Perigee Seven Hills Vineyards 2020 — iconic Bordeaux blends including Perigee, Apogee and the internationally acclaimed Ferguson. £64.99 Simply Wines Direct 56:42 – Beyond the vineyards — national parks, mountain hikes, breweries, ferries, wildlife and why Washington is a complete wine travel destination. 57:53 – Picardan in Washington — one of America's rarest wine grapes and the Rhône-inspired wines of Cairdeas Winery. 59:15 – Rattlesnake Hills AVA — an emerging wine region leading the way in sustainability and deserving far more attention. 📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list

  5. Jul 13

    Ep 270 - Bordeaux Beyond the First Growths: How to Find Great Value in Fine Wine with Michael Saunders

    In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to Bordeaux, one of the world's most famous wine regions, to uncover a side of Bordeaux that many wine lovers overlook. Beyond the First Growths and headline names, where can you find great value today? How do you know if a fine wine has been stored properly? And why does provenance and traceability matter so much when buying mature Bordeaux? Joined by Michael Saunders, Group CEO of Coterie Holdings, this episode explores the world of Bordeaux fine wine, from First Growths and Cru Bourgeois to En Primeur, mature vintages and hidden gems across the Left and Right Bank. Whether you're looking to learn about wine, deepen your wine education, discover one of the world's greatest wine regions, plan Bordeaux wine travel, or understand how to buy fine wine with confidence, this wine podcast episode is packed with expert insights, practical advice and stories from inside the world of Bordeaux. Shownotes 04:18 – Château d'Yquem 1967 — the bottle that inspired Michael's lifelong passion for Bordeaux and fine wine. 06:24 – Wine is meant to be shared — the lesson Michael learned from legendary Bordeaux winemakers about enjoying wine rather than overthinking it. 10:58 – Breaking into the wine industry — why curiosity matters more than qualifications when building a career in wine. 13:16 – Bordeaux wine today — why this iconic wine region offers more value, accessibility and hidden gems than many wine lovers realise.  15:25 – The Cellar Series explained — how Hallgarten's fine wine programme selects mature Bordeaux with impeccable provenance and traceability. 18:07 – Peak drinking windows — how Robert Mathias MW identifies the perfect moment for mature Bordeaux to be enjoyed. 20:24 – Bordeaux classifications explained — understanding First Growths, Right Bank wines and why classifications still matter today. 22:39 – Where the real excitement is in Bordeaux — terroir expression, plot selection and why innovation is reshaping the region. 24:09 – Michael's Bordeaux recommendation for value: The brilliant Denis Durantou's wines on the right bank. 28:00 – Which Bordeaux vintages are drinking well now? — why 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017 and other overlooked vintages deserve another look. 29:38 – En Primeur explained — how Bordeaux's futures system works and why collectors still buy wine before it's bottled. 32:18 – Large-format bottles — why magnums and double magnums transform both wine aging and the experience of sharing great bottles. 35:55 – Bordeaux wine travel — the city's wine bars, restaurants and the best places to explore across the Left and Right Bank. 37:42 – Planning a Bordeaux road trip — from Saint-Émilion and Pauillac to Arcachon, Biarritz and San Sebastián. 40:05 – Château Margaux — one of Bordeaux's most breathtaking estates and a must-see destination for wine lovers. 41:13 – Why provenance matters — how perfect storage and traceability protect the quality of fine wine. 44:42 – Hallgarten The Cellar Series Fine Wine Tasting — where wine professionals can experience mature Bordeaux with exceptional provenance. Attendance for the 2027 event is by invitation only and exclusive for the wine, retail and hospitality trade. To register your interest, contact events@hnwines.co.uk 45:30 – Where to buy mature Bordeaux — Michael recommends trusted UK merchants including Lay & Wheeler and Tannin & Oak for wines with impeccable provenance and traceability. 48:28 – Cru Bourgeois explained — the fascinating history behind one of Bordeaux's most important quality classifications. 54:40 – Why Cru Bourgeois offers exceptional value — how today's classification helps wine lovers discover outstanding Bordeaux without First Growth prices. 📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. And loved by the Hallgarten Wines team! RECOGNITION: Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list

  6. Jul 6

    Ep 269 - Alto Adige Explained | Italy's Alpine Wine Region, Indigenous Grapes & Wine Travel

    In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores Alto Adige (Südtirol), one of Italy's most exciting wine regions, with Eduard Bernhart, Director of Alto Adige Wines. If you're looking to learn about wine, discover new wine regions, understand indigenous wine grapes, or plan an unforgettable wine travel adventure, this episode is your complete guide to one of Europe's most distinctive Alpine wine destinations.  From indigenous wine grapes like Schiava and Lagrein to internationally renowned varieties including Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir, this episode uncovers how altitude, geology, climate and culture combine to create truly distinctive wines. Along the way, Janina and Eduard discuss mountain vineyards, Michelin-starred restaurants, cooperative winemaking, sustainable viticulture and why Alto Adige deserves to be at the top of every wine travel itinerary. Whether you're a curious wine lover, studying wine, planning a wine holiday or simply looking for your next favourite bottle, this wine podcast is packed with expert insights, practical tasting knowledge and plenty of inspiration for your next wine adventure.  Shownotes 03:28 – Alto Adige explained — why this multicultural Alpine wine region blends Italian and Austrian influences unlike anywhere else. 05:16 – Alto Adige vs Südtirol — why the region has two official names and how bilingual culture extends to its wines. 06:49 – Schiava explained — Alto Adige's indigenous red grape, perfect for elegant, lighter-bodied and chilled wines. 09:19 – Santa Magdalena DOC — why up to 15% Lagrein can be blended with Schiava and how this shapes the wine's style. 10:55 – Lagrein explained — Alto Adige's powerful indigenous red grape with ageing potential and outstanding food-pairing versatility. 13:11 – Santa Magdalena wines — discovering one of Alto Adige's most historic wine villages and Janina's tasting impressions. Wine Tasted: Pfannenstielhof St. Magdalener Classico 2023 14:04 – Elena Walch — how one of Alto Adige's pioneering wineries helped establish the region's international reputation. Wine Tasted: Elena Walch, Vigna ‘Castel Ringberg’ Lagrein Riserva 2022 (€ 43 Direct for Winery) 15:09 – Why Alto Adige produces some of Italy's finest white wines  — altitude, Alpine climate, diurnal shifts and meticulous vineyard work. 17:15 – Why Bolzano is one of Italy's warmest cities — sunshine, porphyry rock and the surprising local climate. 18:39 – Alto Adige's extraordinary soils — volcanic porphyry, Dolomite limestone and glacial deposits creating remarkable terroir diversity. 20:51 – Vineyard altitude explained — how elevation influences white and red wine grapes across the region. 22:53 – Michelin-starred dining — why Alto Adige has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe. 24:50 – What does "Vigna" mean? Understanding single-vineyard designations and why they matter. 27:24 – Alto Adige Pinot Grigio — why the region produces textured, mineral-driven expressions that redefine the variety. 30:27 – The cooperative system — how small family growers work together to maintain exceptional quality and sustainability. 33:42 – Tasting Nals Magreid, Hill, Pinot Grigo 2024 (Soho Wine Supply £21) 34:27 – Alto Adige Sauvignon Blanc — a distinctive expression balancing ripeness, minerality, freshness and elegance. Wine Tasted: Cantina Merano Winery “Graf” Sauvignon Blanc 2023 38:01 – Gewürztraminer — why Alto Adige remains the spiritual home of one of the world's most aromatic wine grapes and the first 100 point wine in Italy 42:26 – Alpine white wine grapes explained — Kerner, Müller-Thurgau, Sylvaner, Riesling and Pinot Bianco across Alto Adige's higher valleys. 43:37 – Pinot Noir in Alto Adige — why this cool-climate region has become one of Italy's benchmark producers. 46:30 – Innovation and research — how producers such as Alois Lageder continue experimenting to prepare for climate change. 47:37 – Where to stay in Alto Adige — choosing the perfect base for your first wine travel adventure. 48:46 – Agriturismo experiences — staying among vineyards and connecting directly with local wine producers. 49:45 – Planning the perfect 48-hour itinerary — vineyard walks, mountain scenery, wine tasting and Alpine cuisine. 51:46 – Alto Adige wine travel guide — where to find Alto Adige's wine experiences, tastings and agriturismo stays across the region.    📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list.

  7. Jun 29

    Ep 268 - Loire Valley Wine Region | French Wine Deep Dive for WSET Diploma D3

    In this wine podcast episode, Janina takes you on a deep dive through the Loire Valley - one of the world’s most diverse and fascinating wine regions - using the WSET Diploma textbook as a guide. Whether you're studying for the D3 Wines of the World exam, planning future wine travel, or simply want to learn about wine in a more structured way, this flashcard-style episode explores the Loire Valley from the Atlantic coast to Sancerre in the east. Discover the region’s climate, soils, wine grapes and winemaking styles, including Muscadet, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, while building a deeper understanding of French wine and wine education along the way.   Timestamps 2:18 – Introduction to the Loire Valley - history, the river, and how regions are divided 3:22 – Overview of the regions and key grape varieties - Melon, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc 4:13 – Pays Nantais: Region & Grapes - Melon de Bourgogne, Muscadet, and Folle Blanche 4:54 – Pays Nantais: Climate & Challenges - maritime climate, spring frost, and rainfall risks 6:00 – The Melon Grape - why it thrives here, its viticultural traits, and disease vulnerabilities 7:06 – Muscadet Wine Style -fresh, light, high acid; vineyard management and winemaking 9:21 – Sur Lie - what it means, why it matters, and how it adds texture 10:00 – Muscadet Appellations & Wine Laws - AOCs, yields, sur lie rules, and labelling 11:31 – Muscadet Cru Communaux - Clisson, Gorges, Le Pallet, and how they differ 12:30 – Muscadet Commercially - the 1991 frost, the decline, and repositioning 13:34 – Middle Loire: Anjou-Saumur & Touraine – Introduction 13:44 – Key Grape Varieties - Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc 14:25 – Climate Across the Middle Loire - Atlantic to continental, rainfall timing risks 15:54 – Sweet Wine Conditions in Anjou - the River Layon, mist, and noble rot 16:26 – Soils of Anjou-Saumur & Touraine - schist, limestone, tuff, and chlorosis risk 17:23 – Chenin Blanc in Detail - viticulture challenges, styles from dry to botrytized sweet 18:59 – Cabernet Franc - viticultural traits, flavour profile, and uses in red and rosé 20:28 – Other Red Grapes - Grolleau Noir, Gamay, and Cabernet Sauvignon 21:43 – Winemaking in the Middle Loire - Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and rosé techniques 22:51 – Appellations & Wine Law: Overview - how the Middle Loire is structured 23:25 – Anjou AOC - yields, blends, Anjou Villages, and producers labelling as Vin de France 24:55 – Coteaux du Layon - sweet botrytized Chenin Blanc, sub-appellations, yield/alcohol hierarchy 28:48 – Savennières AOC - dry Chenin Blanc, schist soils, La Roche-aux-Moines, Coulée de Serrant 30:42 – Rosé Appellations - Rosé de Loire, Rosé d'Anjou, and Cabernet d'Anjou 32:22 – Saumur AOC - white, red, rosé, and sparkling styles; yields and appellations 33:23 – Saumur-Champigny AOC - Cabernet Franc, soils, style, and commercial history 34:41 – Touraine AOC - styles, grapes, subzones, Vouvray, Montlouis, Bourgueil, and Chinon 39:05 – Central Vineyards: Introduction -  the eight AOCs of the far east Loire 40:08 – Central Vineyards: Climate - continental conditions, frost, hail, and long daylight hours 41:09 – Sauvignon Blanc - viticulture, flavour profiles, and the effect of canopy and picking date 43:28 – Winemaking in the Central Vineyards - fermentation, MLF, and oak use 44:41 – Sancerre AOC - grapes, yields, history, style, and top producers 46:16 – Sancerre Soils - caillote, terre blanche, and silex, and how each shapes the wine 47:11 – Pouilly-Fumé AOC - style differences from Sancerre, frost risk, and bottle age 47:54 – Other Central Vineyard AOCs - Reuilly, Quincy, Menetou-Salon, and bonus appellations 50:04 – The Loire Today: Trade & Commerce -  family estates, négociants, exports, and market structure 51:00 – Négociants -  their role, consolidation, and the blurring line with estates 52:00 – Organic, Biodynamic & Natural Wine - the Loire as a hub, Nicolas Joly, and Vin de France   📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list

  8. Jun 22

    Ep 267 – Why Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc Tastes Like Nowhere Else: Awatere Valley, Terroir & the Future of New Zealand Wine with Yealands Chief Winemaker, Natalie Christensen

    In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by Natalie Christensen, Chief Winemaker at Yealands, to explore one of the world's most recognised wine regions: Marlborough in New Zealand. Together they dive into the differences between the Wairau Valley and Awatere Valley, uncovering how climate, soils and geography create remarkably different expressions of Sauvignon Blanc. From aroma compounds and winemaking decisions to sustainability, sub-regionality and the future of New Zealand wine, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to learn about wine, deepen their wine education, understand wine grapes and discover why Marlborough deserves to be considered alongside the great wine regions of the world. There is also plenty of inspiration for wine travel, with Natalie sharing what visitors can expect when exploring the stunning Yealands vineyards on New Zealand's South Island. Shownotes 03:12 – Discovering Marlborough — Natalie introduces New Zealand's most famous wine region and explains what makes the Awatere Valley so unique. 04:15 – Vineyard location matters — how close Yealands' vines sit to the dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 07:17 – Awatere vs Wairau Valley — temperature differences, diurnal shifts and how climate shapes wine styles. 08:20 – Why Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is so intense — sunlight, climate and natural vineyard conditions behind its famous aromatic profile. 09:47 – Thiols and methoxypyrazines explained — the aroma compounds that define Sauvignon Blanc and how winemakers influence them. 11:40 – Can Sauvignon Blanc age? Exploring the surprising ageability of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and how its character evolves over time. 14:26 – Understanding the Yealands range — from the flagship Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc to Reserve, Single Vineyard and the iconic L5 Block. 16:04 – Tasting Yealands Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2025 — Janina's tasting notes and what makes this classic New Zealand wine style so appealing. (Retails around £10: Asda, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Morrisons, Ocado) 17:10 – What makes the Reserve different? Natalie explains the vineyard selection and winemaking decisions behind the Yealands Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (Retails around £12.50: Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Ocado, Morrisons, Waitrose) 20:44 – Expression of grape or expression of place? Why Sauvignon Blanc may be one of the best wine grapes for showcasing terroir. 22:07 - Tasting Yealands Estate Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (Retailer: ND Johns - £15.50) 25:41 – Tasting Yealands Estate L5 Block 2024 — Yealands' most coastal vineyard site and a Sauvignon Blanc that truly captures a sense of place. (Retailer: ND Johns - £19.45) 33:09 – Yeast selection and fermentation — how different yeast strains influence flavour, texture and aromatic expression. 33:21 – X5 and Delta yeasts — the strains most commonly associated with enhancing Sauvignon Blanc's signature aromatic profile. 37:07 – Babydoll sheep and sustainability — the famous miniature sheep helping manage the vineyards naturally. 38:39 – Sustainability beyond the sheep — cover crops, biodiversity and vineyard practices that improve both wine quality and environmental outcomes. 39:49 – Carbon-positive ambitions — how Yealands is reducing its carbon footprint through renewable energy, lightweight bottles and innovative logistics. 41:55 – Sauvignon New Zealand 2027 — Natalie shares details of the upcoming international celebration of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. 42:56 – The future of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc — sub-regions, site-specific wines and the rise of boutique producers. 43:50 – Wine travel in New Zealand — what visitors should experience when exploring Yealands and the Awatere Valley. 44:53 – The White Road Tour — scenic viewpoints, wildlife, vineyards and one of New Zealand's most memorable winery experiences. 45:52 – Why visiting vineyards changes everything — how standing among the vines transforms your understanding of Sauvignon Blanc. 46 :37 – One final takeaway — why Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is far more diverse than many wine lovers realise.   📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing's Most Influential People in Drinks list

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About

Hey there! If you love wine, are curious about the world’s wine regions, or just want to geek out a little on grapes, terroir, and winemaking, you’re in the right place. This is a fun, educational wine podcast made for serious enthusiasts, wine students, and anyone who wants to fall in love with wine all over again. I chat with winemakers, sommeliers, and Masters of Wine who share their stories, tips, and insider knowledge - from their favourite regions and grapes to food pairings and the techniques that make each bottle special. Sometimes we open a bottle as we talk, sometimes I take you along on a 4-day itinerary I’ve mapped out from my travels, and sometimes we do quick-fire flashcard-style deep dives to test your wine knowledge - all in a way that’s engaging, uplifting, and never boring. Whether you’re working towards your WSET or MW exams, or just want to explore the world of wine with a glass in hand, this podcast is a place to laugh, learn, and celebrate the joy of wine. Come join our inclusive wine-loving community - there’s a story, a tip, or a tasting for everyone.

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