Wine Talks with Paul K.

Paul K from the Original Wine of the Month Club
Wine Talks with Paul K.

All you knew about wine is about to bust wide open… We are going to talk about what really happens in the wine business, and I’m taking no prisoners. Learn more at: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/. I am your host, Paul Kalemkiarian, 2nd generation owner of the Original Wine of the Month Club, and I am somewhere north of 100,000 wines tasted. How can Groupon sell 12 bottles for $60, and the wines be good? How do you start a winery anyway and lose money? And is a screwcap really better than a cork? Sometimes I have to pick a wine at the store by the label and the price... and I get screwed. Subscribe now and prepare to be enlightened.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    What Wine Can Teach Us About Humanity and Culture with Wanda Mann

    Why does wine feel so special, beyond just being a drink? In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K chats with Wanda Mann, East Coast Editor for SOMM Journal and The Tasting Panel. With over 16 years of experience in the wine industry, Wanda takes us on her journey from anthropology to wine expert, sharing what makes wine deeply anthropological. They discuss everything from the intersection of wine, culture, and history, the evolving inclusivity in wine, and why stories make every wine bottle memorable. The conversation also touches on the generational shifts in wine trends, the rise of non-alcoholic options, and why developing your palate should be a personal, ongoing journey. Listen in and explore the world of wine through a whole new lens!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Wanda Mann’s journey through wine and culture (01:08) The anthropology of wine (05:00) What makes wine different from other beverages (13:27) Simplifying wine education for consumers (15:28) Younger generations and their evolving wine preferences (24:10) Non-alcoholic wine and industry innovations (29:27) Diversity challenges and progress in the wine industry (34:27) Wanda’s father’s influence as a chef on her passion for flavor (49:58) The role of wine in connecting people (54:42)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Follow Wanda Mann on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winedinewanda/?hl=en   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸Claude Has Worked In The Greatest Wine Districts In France. How Did He Get To Napa?: https://youtu.be/NUPKpEkQp2Y 🔸White House Wine Authority Reveals the UNTOLD Presidential Wine Secrets | Frederick Ryan: https://youtu.be/4M09rYbob6I   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914   –   Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    57 min
  2. DEC 10

    AI vs Humans: Does AI Know Your Wine Preferences Better Than You Do? | Katerina Axelsson

    Do you ever wonder if AI can taste wine and tell you what consumers really want? In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Katerina Axelsson, founder and CEO of Tastry, to explore how AI is transforming the wine industry, helping winemakers predict consumer preferences with scientific precision. Katerina shares her journey from chemist to tech entrepreneur and explains how Tastry’s unique approach bridges the artistry of winemaking with cutting-edge science. From rescuing wine batches affected by smoke taint to helping wineries stand out in a competitive market, this episode dives deep into the practical impact of AI in the wine world. Let’s jump right in!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Inspiration behind Tastry (00:38)  Vineyard applications of AI (05:46)  Data-driven analytical chemistry (07:26) The problem with human recommenders (12:42) How AI is easing new consumers into wine (17:31)  Solving winemaking challenges using AI (21:13) Importance of quality wine data (27:29) How Tastry helps sell wines (30:56) Avoiding the “Instagram face” syndrome (34:03) Small vs. corporate wineries (39:57) Future of AI in winemaking (42:09) Wine Q&A (47:54)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Connect with Katerina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-axelsson-a3888078/ 👉Visit Tastry for more information: https://tastry.com/   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸Are Family-Run Wineries the Heart of True Wine Culture? | Keith Saarloos: https://youtu.be/pVZFBGMo-dg 🔸How the Schlumberger Preserved Its 200-Year Winemaking Legacy | Thomas Schlumberger: https://youtu.be/-eN77cICDsg   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914 – Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    53 min
  3. DEC 3

    Why Château La Gaffelière’s Bold Chardonnay Experiment is Redefining Bordeaux’s Tradition | Francois Peltereau-Villeneuve

    Have you ever imagined tasting a Chardonnay from Bordeaux?  In this week’s latest episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Francois Peltereau-Villeneuve of Wine Concept to explore Château La Gaffelière’s bold artistry in blending Burgundy clones and its daring decision to leave Bordueaux’s rigid classification system. Learn how unique vineyard techniques, like vertical vine growth and vintage blending, are rewriting the region’s wine story. From innovative winemaking techniques to simplifying wine language, this conversation highlights how wine culture is adapting to a modern audience. Let’s dive in!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Differences between Bordeaux’s Left and Right Bank classifications (02:09) Why Château La Gaffelière left Bordeaux’s classification system in 2022 (04:21)  The younger generations’ exploratory wine consumption habits (07:43)  Château La Gaffelière’s journey of planting Chardonnay in Bordeaux (20:32)  Using Burgundy clones to blend unique Bordeaux Chardonnay (30:02) Small-scale production challenges for exclusive wines (35:38) Wine marketing is addressing what the consumers really want (37:29) The role of simplified wine language (42:56)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Visit  Château La Gaffelière: https://gaffeliere.com/en/la-gaffeliere/   Watch or listen to this episode: 🔸She Knows The Consumer. I Want Her On My Team. Meet Jessica Kogan: https://youtu.be/AvBzLf3UN9w   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914 –   Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    48 min
  4. NOV 26

    This Couple Built Their Dream Winery in Tuscany From the Ground Up | Romano Marniga and Patrizia Chiari

    Have you ever wanted to leave it all behind and follow your dream? That’s exactly what Romano Marniga and Patrizia Chiari did when they traded their careers in finance and coffee distribution for the rolling hills of Tuscany. In this episode, Paul K sits down with the owners of Tenuta Impostino, a boutique winery redefining Tuscany’s winemaking traditions. Romano and Patrizia share their journey from corporate grind to organic farming, highlighting the challenges and joys of building a family-run winery from the ground up. They also talk about how innovation and tradition coexist in their winemaking craft, the impact of climate change on viticulture, and how wine unites people. Get ready for an inspiring story of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of authenticity. Let’s jump in!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) From finance and coffee to winemaking (00:34) Finding the perfect land in Tuscany’s Montecucco region (05:58) Embracing organic farming for sustainability (11:46) Challenges faced in entering the boutique wine business (20:20) How an early recognition by Wine Spectator boosted Tenuta Impostino (23:07) Using storytelling for the younger generations to appreciate wine (27:29) The future of wine amidst climate change (38:42) Defining innovation in winemaking (42:50)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Visit Tenuta Impostino: https://www.tenutaimpostino.it/index.html   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸Are Family-Run Wineries the Heart of True Wine Culture? | Keith Saarloos: https://youtu.be/pVZFBGMo-dg 🔸How the Schlumberger Preserved Its 200-Year Winemaking Legacy | Thomas Schlumberger: https://youtu.be/-eN77cICDsg   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914   –   Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    49 min
  5. NOV 21

    Is Hospitality Done For Good? The Truth About Modern Service Culture | Vannessa Scott-Allen

    What makes a dining or travel experience truly unforgettable?  Vannessa Scott-Allen, Executive Director of Always Practice Hospitality, believes the secret lies in one word: connection.  In our latest episode of Wine Talks with Paul K, Vannessa explains how storytelling elevates wine from just a drink into a memorable experience. She emphasizes the growing need for genuine connections in a digital age where authenticity often feels lost. Vannessa also explores how COVID-19 reshaped the hospitality landscape, forcing innovation and resilience, and discusses the critical role of self-care for those in service roles. And lastly, she highlights why creating new opportunities for connection is essential to reviving hospitality. Tune in now and get inspired to see hospitality in a whole new way!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Vannessa Scott-Allen and her hospitality philosophy (01:29) The role of storytelling in wine experiences (05:04) How COVID-19 transformed the hospitality industry (10:58) The need for genuine connection and sincerity in service (13:42) Balancing personal challenges and professional roles in hospitality (20:34) Challenges in attracting the younger generations to wine (29:00)  Vannessa’s inspiration for hospitality (33:03)  Importance of self-care to provide exceptional service (39:56) How curiosity drives growth and excellence in hospitality (46:47) Episode wrap-up (47:30)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Visit Always Practice Hospitality: https://www.alwayspracticehospitality.com/   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸The Vineyard NO ONE Thought Could Exist in Texas with Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/RNT-B-hUgpo 🔸Innovation Expert Explains What Innovation in Wine Really Looks Like | Gerard Tellis: https://youtu.be/H0KWxCOqCIQ   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914 – Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    48 min
  6. NOV 19

    Does Celebrity Wine Marketing Actually Sell? Invivo Wines Has the Answer | Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron

    Does wine feel too complicated? In this episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron, the founders of Invivo Wines, to explore how they’ve transformed the wine industry. Ditching the stuffy, aristocratic vibe traditionally associated with wine, Invivo has redefined the game with bold creativity and a focus on fun and inclusivity. They reveal the power of their celebrity collaborations with Sarah Jessica Parker and Graham Norton–partnerships that go beyond simple endorsements. Discover how Invivo is pushing the boundaries of wine marketing, including launching their winery airline and hosting quirky blending sessions designed to craft the perfect wine bottle. This episode is truly a masterclass in balancing authenticity with wine branding, navigating industry challenges, and rewriting the rules in a competitive market. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Invivo’s “100% b******t-free” wine philosophy (00:38)  Making wine accessible for younger consumers (02:16) How Rob and Tim pioneered equity crowdfunding in wine (06:00) Invivo’s founding story and innovative marketing (09:08) Understanding consumer tastes and regional differences (12:06) Invivo’s innovative celebrity collaborations (22:09) Wine industry’s need for creativity and marketing innovation (44:17) Episode wrap-up (48:13)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Visit Invivo Wines’ website for more information: https://invivowines.com/   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸BULGARI’s World-Class Winemaking Secrets Revealed! | Francesco Poggi: https://youtu.be/nAVaxHwuy1Y 🔸Wine Storage on STEROIDS? THIS is How Bottle Bank Does It  | Damon Raque: https://youtu.be/U51rYIZ7wZU   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914   –   Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    49 min
  7. NOV 14

    How a 19th-Century Château is Redefining Bordeaux Wine | Thibaut Richard

    Bordeaux–a wine region synonymous with elegance, heritage, and traditional fine wines. But what happens when a 19th-century Bordeaux château boldly embraces modernity? In this week’s episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Thibaut Richard, the Commercial Director of Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion.  Nestled within the city limits of Bordeaux, Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion offers a unique blend of urban accessibility and countryside charm. Today, Thibaut explains how château preserves authentic Bordeaux values while adapting to a global market. He shares his insights into the unique techniques that set the vineyard apart from others, uncovers what truly defines an “honest” wine, dives into the wine tourism scene in Bordeaux, and so much more. If you’re curious about the transformation of a Bordeaux icon and what it takes to create an authentic wine experience in this modern age, tune in to this episode!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Thibaut Richard of Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion (00:26)  The unique charm of Bourdeaux and Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion (09:16) Consumer experience and wine tourism in Bourdeaux (12:22) The importance of honesty in every glass of wine (23:49) Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion’s unique winemaking techniques (30:40) Episode wrap-up (36:42)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Visit Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion for more: https://www.les-carmes-haut-brion.com/en   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸THIS Russian-Owned Winery is BREAKING All the Tuscany Wine Rules–Here’s Why: https://youtu.be/lr_n9lJt0_M 🔸Why Panama’s Wine Scene is a Shocking Surprise with Charlie Leary: https://youtu.be/baGQqwIfIbE   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914 – Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    37 min
  8. NOV 12

    Why Boutique Wine Production is Harder (and More Rewarding) Than You Think | Nerses and Carol Bezdjian

    Have you ever dreamed of starting a small wine production? Nerses and Carol Bezdjian did more than just dream–they took the leap. With Qini Wines, they blend Armenian heritage and an entrepreneurial spirit into every bottle. Nerses, with a background in wine logistics, made a fascinating detour to winemaking, driven by his desire to craft wines that tell a story. In this episode of Wine Talks, we dive into the joys and struggles of building a boutique wine brand–from hand-harvesting grapes to mastering unique fermentation methods. Discover what it means to stay true to your vision while balancing the challenges of a competitive industry. Tune in now and explore the artistry of small-batch winemaking!   Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Nerses and Carol Bezdjian of Qini Wines (00:35) Challenges in small-scale wine production (04:52) Transitioning winemaking from a hobby to a family business (15:16) Wine trends and the role of boutique brands (19:41) Exploring the hospitality aspect vs. maintaining a vineyard (23:34) The struggle with wine sales and marketing (26:47) Nerses’ experimental approach to winemaking (44:51) Wine Q&A (48:32)   Additional Resources: 👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/ 👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_ 👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 👉Visit Qini Wines for more information: https://qiniwines.com/   Watch or listen to these episodes: 🔸The Vineyard NO ONE Thought Could Exist in Texas with Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/RNT-B-hUgpo 🔸Wine Storage on STEROIDS? THIS is How Bottle Bank Does It  | Damon Raque: https://youtu.be/U51rYIZ7wZU   Let’s Connect: 🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/ 🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914   –   Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time. Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

    53 min
4.7
out of 5
57 Ratings

About

All you knew about wine is about to bust wide open… We are going to talk about what really happens in the wine business, and I’m taking no prisoners. Learn more at: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/. I am your host, Paul Kalemkiarian, 2nd generation owner of the Original Wine of the Month Club, and I am somewhere north of 100,000 wines tasted. How can Groupon sell 12 bottles for $60, and the wines be good? How do you start a winery anyway and lose money? And is a screwcap really better than a cork? Sometimes I have to pick a wine at the store by the label and the price... and I get screwed. Subscribe now and prepare to be enlightened.

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