Advertise on podcast: Wine Guide with Cork & Fizz - Wine education for beginners and enthusiasts

Ep 142 What makes wine from the Okanagan Valley so different from anywhere else? In today’s episode I’m chatting with Katie Truscott from 1 Mill Road where we explore her journey into wine. It began unexpectedly with Chenin Blanc in South Africa and evolved into building a small, family-run winery in the heart of Naramata, British Columbia, Canada with her life (and business) partner, Ben. Katie shares her unconventional path into the wine world, from early curiosity and formal wine education to eventually producing wine full time in the Okanagan Valley. Katie shares what defines the Okanagan Valley as a wine region. From long summer days and short growing seasons to the influence of a massive glacial lake, this episode breaks down how geography and climate shape what grows where. You’ll hear why Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive in certain parts of the valley and how site selection plays a critical role in wine style. Katie also addresses the realities of farming and winemaking in this region, including extreme cold events, wildfire risk, and unpredictable yields. She also explains why most Canadian wines never leave British Columbia and what it will take for Okanagan Valley wines to gain broader recognition. So, if you are ready to learn what makes the Okanagan Valley so special and unique then this episode is for you! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Pour Memory: Use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your purchase at www.pourmemory.com. I’d recommend a starter kit that includes a journal and 24 or 48 labels. Don’t forget to download the Pour Memory iOS app to track your bottles digitally too. Connect with Katie Personal Instagram - @katies.wine.life Winery Instagram - @1millroad Website - https://www.1millroad.ca/ Episode Highlights: Falling in love with wine through Chenin BlancA nontraditional path into the wine industryWhat defines the Okanagan Valley as a wine regionWhy Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive thereThe impact of long summer days and short growing seasonsHow extreme cold and wildfires affect vineyardsWhy most Canadian wine stays in CanadaWhat it takes for Okanagan wines to reach global markets What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 141 What if the most common belief about wine headaches is actually one of the biggest myths in the entire wine world? This is the first episode in a new mini series where I unpack some of the biggest wine myths and separate fact from fiction. In this episode, I’m breaking down the long-standing assumption that sulfites in wine cause headaches and uncover why this claim doesn’t hold up. You’ll learn where the belief started, why the “contains sulfites” label leads so many people astray, and what science says about sulfite sensitivity. I also get into the real reasons you might be getting headaches from wine, including factors most drinkers never think about. Plus, I dive into how sulfites naturally form during winemaking, why winemakers add them, and how they help protect wine from oxidation and bacterial spoilage. As well as the surprising truth about sulfite levels in wine compared to foods like dried apricots and frozen potatoes. If you’ve ever blamed sulfites for a headache, felt confused about natural or organic wines, or wondered what’s actually causing reactions when you drink wine, this episode is for you! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Pour Memory: Use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your purchase at pourmemory.com. I’d recommend a starter kit that includes a journal and 24 or 48 labels. Don’t forget to download the Pour Memory iOS app to track your bottles digitally too. Episode Highlights: Why sulfites appear on wine labels How rare true sulfite sensitivities actually are Why all wines naturally contain sulfites What sulfites do in winemaking (oxidation + bacteria control) Foods with far higher sulfite levels than wine Why red wines often have fewer sulfites than white wines Real reasons people get wine headaches How tannins, sugar, alcohol, and histamines play a role Truth about natural, organic, and “clean” wine claims Why natural and organic wines still contain sulfites What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 140 Being pregnant forced me into a real-world test of non-alcoholic wine, and the results were not what you might expect. When I announced I was pregnant, the constant question that followed once wine was off the table was: are there any good non-alcoholic wine options? That curiosity turned into a deep dive for me where I tasted more than 40 non-alcoholic wines, all while continuing to taste traditional wine for comparison. You’ll hear an honest breakdown of why, in my opinion, non-alcoholic wine does not taste like wine, how alcohol-removed wine differs from wine alternatives, and why expectations matter so much when approaching this category.  At the end I share six non-alcoholic wines that are genuinely enjoyable, plus where to find them if you are navigating pregnancy, sobriety or simply looking to cut back. So if you are curious about non-alcoholic wine and want an honest take, this episode will help you know what to reach for and what to skip. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!6 Non-Alcoholic Wines I Recommend Dr. Lo Riesling - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/dr-lo-rieslingSea Monster Tidal Wave White - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/sea-monster-tidal-wave-white-non-alcoholic-wineJoyus Sparkling Wine - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/joyus-nonalcoholic-sparkling-wineDomaine EdeM N.0 Sparkling Rosé - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/n-0-rose-e-de-m Heinz Wagner Black Forest NA Bubbles - https://tupetzwine.com/product/non-alc-bubbles/ (use code CORKFIZZ15 to save 15% off 3 or more bottles)Woody’s Sparkling Rosé - https://thezeroproof.com/products/woodys-sparkling-rose  Resources The Quest for Good Non-Alcoholic Wine - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/the-quest-for-good-non-alcoholic-wine The Zero Proof - https://thezeroproof.com/ Tupetz Wine - https://tupetzwine.com/ Non-Alcoholic Wine (Let’s Talk About That) - Episode 33 Cheeky & Dry- https://www.cheekyanddry.com/ Why German Wine Goes Beyond Sweet Riesling What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 139 Would you believe me if I said one of the most soulful and historic wine regions in France is also the one most people barely know anything about? This conversation, with Ioana from Princess & Bear Wine, goes deeper into the French regions of Languedoc and Roussillon through the perspective of someone who’s actually walked the vineyards, met the winemakers, and watched small family estates bring these wines to life. You’ll hear how high elevation sites, biodynamic farming, volcanic soils, and centuries of tradition all come together to create wines that are expressive, textured, and full of character. From tiny domaines run by women to unexpected whites, reds, and sparkling wines, this episode shines a light on producers you won’t normally find at stores and the bottles that define this part of Southern France. You’ll also get three standout recommendations if you’re just starting to explore the region. If you're curious about organic French wine, lesser known varietals, or even planning a future wine trip, you’ll want to listen in as we explore a region that deserves far more attention. If you missed part 1 of my conversation with Ioana go back to episode 138 to listen in! Use code BONJOUR and receive 10% off your online purchase at www.theprincessandthebear.com. If you are in Seattle mention that you are a Cork & Fizz podcast listener and receive a complimentary tasting when you visit The Princess and Bear tasting room in January and February 2026. To make a reservation for the tasting room call, email at [email protected] or you can make one on the website. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order! Connect with Ioana: Website: https://www.theprincessandthebear.com/ Episode Highlights: Small, family run wineries shaping Languedoc and Roussillon Women winemakers and biodynamic farming practices How elevation and unique soils influence flavor Cigar shaped barrels and what they do to white wines Key differences between Languedoc and Roussillon 3 must try wines to start exploring the region Behind the scenes of the annual club trip Visiting tiny domaines and exclusive cellar experiences Why the region still feels raw, genuine, and soulful The long term vision for sharing these wines in the U.S. What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 138 What if one of the oldest wine regions in the world is also the one most wine lovers overlook? This conversation with Ioana Bucur, new co-owner of Princess and Bear Wines, dives deep into the heart of Languedoc and Roussillon, the southern French wine regions known for authenticity, history, and an unmatched sense of place. You’ll hear how centuries of tradition, diverse terroir, and small artisanal domaines shape wines that are vibrant, expressive, and surprisingly affordable. From mountain vineyards and Mediterranean breezes to volcanic soils and female winemakers, this episode is a journey through the people, land, and stories that make these wines so unforgettable. Whether you love crisp whites, bold reds, or sparkling wines, this region has it all and then some. If you’ve been wanting to explore new wine regions or step outside your comfort zone, this is the perfect place to start! And don’t miss next week's episode where I’m back with another conversation with Ioana!  Use code BONJOUR and receive 10% off your online purchase at www.theprincessandthebear.com. And if you are in the Seattle area, mention that you are a Cork & Fizz podcast listener and receive a complimentary tasting when you visit the Princess and Bear tasting room in January and February 2026. To make a reservation for the tasting room call, email at [email protected] or you can make one on the website. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order! Connect with Ioana: Website: https://www.theprincessandthebear.com/ Episode Highlights: Childhood memories that shaped a lifelong connection to wine How Princess and Bear Wines began What makes Languedoc-Roussillon authentic and overlooked Climate and terroir factors that keep wines fresh in a warm region Why organic and biodynamic farming thrive here Limoux as the birthplace of traditional sparkling wine Standout white wine styles, from crisp and mineral to complex and savory How volcanic soils and fossils influence flavor Why trying unfamiliar wines expands your palate What to expect from the region’s red wines, from juicy to bold and complex The traditional-method sparkling wines of Limoux and their blends What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 137 If you're ready to feel more confident about wine but have no idea where to start, this episode breaks the entire process down into five simple steps. You’ll learn my simple five step framework that makes learning about wine feel doable and not overwhelming. From building a consistent tasting habit to knowing which basics actually matter, this roadmap gives you an easy way to try new wines with more intention and a lot less second-guessing. You’ll also hear practical ideas for comparison tastings, finding the right books and classes, what to do at your local wine shop, and how to experiment with friends without making it complicated. And if you’re setting wine goals (yes, that’s a thing), this episode will help you choose ones you’ll actually stick with. So, if you’re ready to feel more confident about what’s in your glass, this is where your wine journey really begins! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order! Resources:  My 4-Step Wine Tasting Method - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-1 How to Start Your Own Wine Club Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p35/diy-wine-tasting-club-downloadable-kit.html Garden Party Done-For-You Wine Tasting Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p46/garden-party-dfy-wine-tasting-party-kit.html Wine & Cheese Pairing Done-For-You Tasting Party Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p45/wine-and-cheese-dfy-tasting-party-kit.html Episode Highlights: How to build a consistent wine habit Creating a simple rating system for every bottle Trying one new wine each month or week Why becoming a regular at a local wine shop matters Tools and apps that help track what you taste The core wine basics every beginner should learn Recommended books, podcasts, and classes The four step tasting method and where to learn it How to explore new wines with intention Doing comparison tastings at home Tools that keep wine fresh longer Hosting casual wine nights with friends Easy wine goals to set  What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 136 Staring at a wall of wine and wishing someone would just hand you a curated list of bottles actually worth drinking? In this episode I’m sharing my 12 standout wines from 2025 in honor of the 12 days of Christmas. Wines from Washington Chardonnay to Idaho Mourvedre to canned Albariño, Soave from Italy, and a wild, nutty Vin Jaune from France. You’ll hear why each bottle earned a spot on the list, how it tastes, and the stories and memories tied to each one, including travel moments, family visits, and retreat highlights. You’ll also learn why mixed oak and stainless aging affects Chardonnay, why Soave is such a reliable go-to at the grocery store, what makes orange wine and Pet Nat so distinctive, and how to think about “funky” wines like Vin Jaune or Condrieu without feeling intimidated.  So, whether you’re hunting for a weeknight bottle, a Trader Joe’s steal, or something special to share with friends, this episode is a ready-made shopping list for any wine drinker! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order! Wines Mentioned in this Episode: Kinhaven 2023 Chardonnay2020 Siegloch Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)2021 Telaya Wine Co. MourvèdreMaker Wine Albariño (Camins 2 Dreams)Clos du Gravillas 2020 À Fleur de Peau Vin Blanc de MacerationCasaponte Soave ClassicoCecilia Beretta Valpolicella Ripasso SuperioreDomaine Baud Generation 9 Chateau Chalon2023 Pieropan Soave Clasico2024 Grosgrain Sémillon Pet Nat2021 Yves Cuilleron La Petite Cote CondrieuRaventos i Blanc | Blanc de Blancs 2021 Resources: Ep 40 - What Sets Camins 2 Dreams Apart From Other Wineries Ep 68 - A Family Legacy with Spanish Winemaker Pepe Raventos Ep 69 - Exploring Spanish Sparkling Wine with Pepe Raventos: Breaking Away From Cava Ep 122 - Why German Wine Goes Beyond Sweet Riesling with Lisa Tupetz Ep 123 - Sekt: Germany’s Sparkling Wine You Need to Know with Lisa Tupetz What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 135 What if the easiest way to pick better wine has been sitting on the bottle this whole time? Learning how to read a wine label doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In my conversation with Marie, she breaks down her approachable, beginner-friendly system that she teaches in her new book “How to Read a Wine Label.” It’s a method built around three core concepts that can help anyone predict how a wine will taste before ever pulling the cork. She explains how to spot Old World vs. New World styles, how climate affects flavor, and why grape skin thickness matters more than you think. You’ll also hear why she intentionally kept the book short, what she chose to leave out (and why), and how she hopes this knowledge empowers people to move beyond choosing wine by the “cute label.” This episode is full of simple, repeatable tips that make wine shopping far less intimidating, so that the next time you are staring at a wall of wine, you’ll actually know what you are looking for. And if you missed last week’s episode, go back and listen to part 1 of my chat with Marie.  Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Last Bottle: Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!) Connect with Marie Instagram - @slikwinesMarie’s Book - How to Read a Wine LabelWebsite - https://www.slikwines.com/ Episode Highlights: Why so many people choose wine based on the label The three concepts that instantly help you predict taste (Old World vs. New World, climate, grape skin thickness) How to spot meaningful info on a label vs. marketing tactics Why the book focuses only on what beginners actually need How repeated core concepts build confidence when shopping for wine What Marie hopes to change about the way people choose wine bottles Why aged wines aren’t automatically “better” What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 134 What if blind tasting isn’t actually about guessing the wine at all but about learning to trust your palate? In this conversation, author, sommelier, and content creator Marie Cheslik shares an unfiltered look at blind tasting, wine education, and the confidence-building process behind learning what you like. She explains the original purpose of blind tasting, why it’s rooted in regional typicity, and how she now uses the same framework to help everyday drinkers feel less intimidated and more empowered. You’ll hear Marie talk about the tension between subjective tasting and objective correctness, why some tasting notes really are more “right” than others, and how comparing wines side-by-side teaches people far more than memorizing facts ever will. She also opens up about balancing a creative business with the stability of her nursing career, the myth of “going all in,” and the hard lesson she learned about time investment not guaranteeing growth. If you’ve ever felt uncertain about how to describe wine, confused about what you’re “supposed” to taste, or intimidated by blind tasting, tune into this episode where you’ll get the  clarity, context, and permission you’ve been hoping for! And don’t miss next week's episode which is part 2 of my chat with Marie where we dig into her book How to Read a Wine Label.  Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35! Connect with Marie Instagram - @slikwines Marie’s Book - How to Read a Wine Label Website - https://www.slikwines.com/ Episode Highlights: How Marie discovered wine through restaurant work Starting Slick Wines during Covid and growing through virtual events Why she still works as a registered nurse The myth of “going all in” on your business What blind tasting is actually designed to teach Understanding typicity and classic wine markers The balance between subjective and objective tasting notes Using side-by-side tastings to build confidence Old World vs New World Chardonnay flavor differences Why storytelling connects better than soil talk What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 133 What if one of wine’s most recognizable symbols, the oak barrel, was never meant to be used for aging wine at all? In this episode, we’re diving into the history and science of oak in winemaking. From the Roman Empire’s accidental discovery of oak barrels to how modern winemakers use them intentionally today, you’ll learn why oak has become one of the most powerful tools for shaping a wine’s flavor, texture, and aroma. We’ll break down what really happens inside the barrel, from how oxygen softens tannins to the compounds that add notes of vanilla, spice, and caramel. You’ll also discover the truth behind that “buttery” flavor in Chardonnay and why it’s not actually coming from the oak itself. Finally, we’ll explore the different types of oak used around the world, what makes French, American, and Hungarian barrels unique, and the rise of sustainable alternatives like oak chips and staves.  If you’ve ever wondered how oak barrels influence what’s in your glass or what winemakers mean when they say a wine was “oaked”, this episode is for you! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35! Episode Highlights: How oak barrels were first used by the Romans The key reasons winemakers choose oak today: flavor, texture, and fermentation environment The truth about “buttery” wines and malolactic fermentation The process of crafting an oak barrel, from staves to toasting Differences between French, American, and Hungarian oak Cost and sustainability factors in oak barrel use Why new vs. old oak matters for flavor Oak alternatives: chips, cubes, and staves The meaning of “the angel’s share” in winemaking How winemakers balance tradition with innovation What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 132 Do you ever feel lost when people start throwing around fancy wine terms like “tannin” or “terroir”? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re going back to the basics with 15 essential wine words that will instantly boost your confidence when talking about wine. You’ll learn how to describe what you’re tasting, from acidity to body, and finally understand what those mysterious words like “minerality,” “dry,” and “complex” actually mean. This is your chance to learn how to speak like a sommelier (aka a wine expert!) If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to describe what’s in your glass or want to understand what others mean when they talk about wine, this episode is the perfect place to start. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35! Resources: What makes wine taste the way it does? Tannin, acidity and body - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-125The light, crisp French white wine you’re missing out on - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-75 Episode Highlights: The difference between “variety” and “varietal” (and why even experts mix them up) What a “vintage” really tells you about your wine How to identify acidity, body, tannin, and finish Why “dry” doesn’t always mean what you think it does Understanding terroir and minerality How to use words like “crisp,” “complex,” and “silky” to describe wine What “Lees,” “Brett,” and “mouthfeel” actually mean The truth about when a wine is “tight” or “closed off” How to tell if your wine is ready to drink or needs time to open up What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 131 What happens when a winemaker challenges tradition, one barrel at a time? In this second part of my interview with South African winemaker Duncan Savage, he shares how he transformed his approach from crafting white wines at Cape Point Vineyards to creating expressive, terroir-driven reds under his own label. He shares how his time crafting white wines at Cape Point Vineyards shaped the philosophy he now brings to his expressive, terroir-driven reds under his own label. Duncan also takes us inside the evolution of South African winemaking. From shifting away from standardized Sauvignon Blanc styles to embracing authenticity, restraint, and place-driven wines that tell their own story. If you’ve ever wondered what makes the new wave of South African wines so distinctive, this episode offers a glimpse into that transformation. If you’ve curious how passion, patience, and a little rebellion can reshape an entire wine region, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss! And don’t forget to go back to episode 130 and listen to the first part of my conversation with Duncan! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35! Connect with Duncan: Website - https://broadbent.com/producers/savage-wines/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/savagewines/ Episode Highlights: Transitioning from white to red winemaking Shifting South African Sauvignon Blanc beyond the “Kiwi” style How barrel fermentation and oxidative techniques changed his perspective Why Duncan applies a “white wine approach” to red wines The importance of patience and texture in the winemaking process Redefining what “authentic South African wine” means today What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 130 You may have heard of Napa and Bordeaux…but the next great wine region might just surprise you. Welcome to South Africa! In this episode, winemaker Duncan Savage joins from Cape Town to share his journey from head winemaker at Cape Point Vineyards to founder of Savage Wines, one of the most exciting and celebrated names in South Africa’s new wave movement. Duncan’s story is filled with humility, humor, and hard-won insight from falling in love with wine by accident to building a small but mighty urban winery in Cape Town’s Salt River district. You’ll hear how South Africa’s vineyards are shaped by wind, ocean, and innovation and why the region’s wines are finally getting the global recognition they deserve. He also breaks down why most South African producers lease rather than own their vineyards, how climate change is shifting harvests, and why collaboration, rather than competition, is fueling the country’s wine renaissance. If you’ve ever been curious about South African wine or wondered what makes these coastal wines so distinct, you’ll love this episode that dives into the stories, landscapes, and philosophies shaping one of the world’s most exciting wine regions. Don’t miss part 2 of my conversation with Duncan next week - episode 131! Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order! Connect with Duncan: Website - https://broadbent.com/producers/savage-wines/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/savagewines/ Episode Highlights: Duncan’s path from Cape Point Vineyards to founding Savage Wines How South Africa’s coastal climate shapes flavor and freshness The “new wave” winemakers redefining South African wine Why most vineyards are leased, not owned The evolution of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage styles Collaboration over competition in South Africa’s wine scene Climate change and the country’s surprising advantage What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 129 Washington may be known for its big-name wineries, but some of the best bottles are coming from the small, family-run spots you’ve never heard of. In this episode, we’re exploring four boutique wineries that capture the creativity and community behind Washington wine. Discover how a chef’s background in flavor inspires the balanced, aromatic wines at Kinhaven Winery. Learn how Cedergreen Cellars pivoted from restaurant-only sales to a hands-on tasting experience, offering beautifully aged wines that deliver incredible value. We’ll also explore the organic vineyards and uncommon grapes defining Grosgrain Vineyards, then visit Ducleaux Cellars, where a husband-and-wife team turns personal stories into heartfelt blends. Plus, stay tuned for a few honorable mentions that deserve a spot on your next tasting itinerary. Whether you’re dreaming of a Walla Walla getaway or just want new favorite bottles to ship straight to your door, this episode will help you uncover the hidden gems of Washington wine country. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order! Resources: Kinhaven Winery - https://kinhavenwinery.com/Cedergreen Cellars - https://www.cedergreencellars.com/Grosgrain Vineyards - https://grosgrainvineyards.com/Ducleaux Cellars - https://www.ducleauxcellars.com/Sama Cellars - https://samacellars.com/Lushington Wines - https://lushingtonwines.com/Michael Florentino Cellars - https://michaelflorentinocellars.com/ Episode Highlights: The chef-inspired winemaking behind Kinhaven WineryAffordable aged wines and hidden value at Cedergreen CellarsUncommon grapes and organic farming at Grosgrain VineyardsThe heartfelt blends and family story of Ducleaux CellarsQuick shoutouts to Sama Sellers, Lushington Wines, and Michael Florentino What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]

Ep 128 Would you believe that one of the world’s favorite red wines comes from one of the most temperamental grapes on earth? Today’s episode is a fan request and we’re taking a deep dive into Pinot Noir! This grape is known for being both a challenge to grow but also how it reflects where it’s grown. We’ll talk about where Pinot Noir got its start and how it’s now grown everywhere from Burgundy to Oregon. You'll discover why Pinot Noir is called the “heartbreak grape” and why winemakers everywhere continue to chase its perfection. We’ll explore the grape’s history, how it’s genetically linked to other famous varieties, what makes it thrive in cooler climates, and the major regions producing outstanding Pinot Noir today. You’ll also learn how oak, fermentation styles, and even your glass shape can change what you taste.  So, whether you’re a red wine enthusiast or just starting your wine journey, this episode will deepen your appreciation for one of wine’s most captivating grapes. Don’t miss out on the other deep dives I’ve done on the following grapes - Chardonnay (Ep 6), Cabernet Franc (Ep 14), Chenin Blanc (Ep 21), Riesling (Ep 38), Barbera (Ep 45), Merlot (Ep 57), Sauvignon Blanc (Ep 104) Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast: Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order! Episode Highlights: The surprising history of Pinot NoirWhy it’s called the “heartbreak grape”How terroir shapes Pinot Noir’s flavorClones, mutations, and grape family tiesKey Pinot Noir regions in BurgundyOregon vs. California Pinot Noir stylesPinot Noir from Germany to New ZealandPinot Noir’s role in ChampagneOak aging and whole-cluster fermentationServing and aging tips for Pinot NoirGo-to food pairings for Pinot Noir What did you think of the episode? Text me! Support the show Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me: Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/ Email - [email protected]