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.
Episodes
19 hours ago
19 hours ago
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.
Monday Jun 29, 2026
Monday Jun 29, 2026
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
Monday Jun 22, 2026
Monday Jun 22, 2026
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
Monday Jun 15, 2026
Monday Jun 15, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by nomadic winemaker Darren Smith, founder of The Finest Wines Available to Humanity. Having worked harvests across Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Portugal, Spain and the Canary Islands, Darren shares stories from some of the world's most overlooked wine regions and explains why old vines, heritage wine grapes and local traditions continue to inspire his winemaking philosophy.
Together, they explore País, Negra Criolla, Quebranta and Palomino, discovering how these historic wine grapes travelled across continents and evolved into unique regional identities. Along the way, they discuss minimal intervention winemaking, tree-trained vineyards, volcanic terroir and flor-aged wines, while uncovering extraordinary wine travel destinations that rarely make the spotlight.
Whether you want to learn about wine, deepen your wine education, discover lesser-known wine regions, understand heritage grape varieties or plan your next wine travel adventure, this wine podcast episode is packed with fascinating stories, expert insight and remarkable wines.
Shownotes
02:45 – Darren Smith's journey into wine — from journalism and wine writing to becoming a nomadic winemaker.
04:13 – Working with Dirk Niepoort — lessons learned from one of the world's most influential winemakers.
06:35 – How Dirk Niepoort's philosophy of infusion over extraction helped shape Darren's own approach to winemaking.
07:34 – The story behind The Finest Wines Available to Humanity and the inspiration for Darren's unconventional wine brand.
08:44 – Why Chile became a defining chapter in Darren's nomadic winemaking journey.
10:59 – The biggest challenge of constantly moving between wine regions, grape varieties and winemaking cultures.
12:46 – País explained — working with Chile's historic heritage grape and why it's perfect for modern chillable red wine styles.
17:21 – Life in Bío Bío, Chile — old vines, traditional farming and one of South America's most exciting wine regions.
19:21 – Minimal intervention wines in southern Chile — preserving purity, freshness and vineyard character.
21:07 – Tasting a País from Ignacio Pino in Itata — 150-year-old vines, granite soils and remarkable precision.
21:51 – Janina's tasting notes — lavender, herbs, freshness and the delicate character of old-vine País.
24:21 – Darren Smith and Ignacio Pino Roman’s 2022 Itata País £32 TFWATH.COM
25:08 – Negra Criolla explained — the Bolivian expression of Listán Prieto and its fascinating history across the Americas.
29:14 – Bolivia's tree-trained vineyards — why the Cinti Valley looks more like a jungle than a vineyard.
31:13 – País / Negra Criolla — how the same grape variety is nuanced in different regions and how terroir shapes this grapee.
32:07 – Jardín Oculto and the rise of Bolivia's most talked-about winery.
33:59 – Bolivia's extreme vineyards — some of the highest wine-growing sites in South America.
35:11 – Viñas Viejas Negra Criolla 2024 from Bolivia's Cinti Valley (Not currently available in UK)
35:35 – Ica, Peru — discovering one of South America's oldest and most important wine regions.
37:24 – Quebranta explained — Peru's signature grape variety and its connection to Listán Prieto.
38:39 – Peru's desert vineyards — Pacific influence, sandy soils and the geography that shapes these wines.
39:59 – Working with Raúl Moreno — Palomino, Jerez and the revival of unfortified expressions of the grape.
42.58 - Darren Smith and Raul Moreno’s Palomino 2022 £36 TFWATH.COM
43:31 – Jerez and albariza soils — flor ageing, terroir and Darren's experience making Palomino in southern Spain.
47:30 – Further Palomino recommendations — producers to explore including Luis Pérez, Ramiro Ibáñez and Raúl Moreno.
49:04 – What Darren learned from Victoria Torres Pecis and why La Palma remains one of the most inspiring wine travel destinations in the world.
53:08 – Trás-os-Montes explained — one of Portugal's least-known wine regions and its historic field blends.
53.42 - Darren Smith and Arribas Wine Company Palhete 2024 £32 TFWATH.COM
54:51 – Tinta Gorda (Juan García) — a little-known grape variety helping define the wines of Trás-os-Montes.
57:52 – The most misunderstood wine region Darren has worked in — and why Jerez deserves far more attention than just Sherry.
📩 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
Monday Jun 08, 2026
Monday Jun 08, 2026
Romania is home to some of Europe's most exciting indigenous grape varieties, yet remains one of the continent's most overlooked wine destinations. In this episode, Janina sits down with Winemaking duo and Husband and Wife, Nora Iriarte and Hartley Smithers of Cramele Recaș to explore Fetească Neagră, Fetească Regală and Fetească Albă, uncovering why Romanian wine deserves far more attention from wine lovers around the world.
Along the way, they debate cork versus screwcap, discuss natural fermentation and minimal intervention winemaking, explain how climate change is affecting Romanian vineyards, and reveal the realities of producing quality wine at scale.
You'll also discover Romania's key wine regions, get wine travel recommendations for Timișoara, learn why Fetească Neagră is one of Europe's most exciting red grapes, and hear firsthand what modern Romanian winemaking looks like today.
Shownotes
1:45 – Introduction to Cramele Recas and their sustainability credentials
3:49 – An overview of the wine regions in Romania
06:19 – Nora's unforgettable introduction to the wine world and the hilarious misunderstanding that filled her car with wine samples.
09:13 – Hartley's biggest lesson after decades in wine: why not everything in wine education should be accepted without question.
13:03 – Cork versus screwcap: a candid discussion about wine closures and preserving wine quality.
14:35 – The winemaking tasks they secretly love most, from lees stirring to hand plunging.
17:24 – Nora's passion for blending logistics, mathematics and winery efficiency.
18:53 – Romania's key indigenous wine grapes explained: Fetească Regală, Fetească Albă and Fetească Neagră.
21:34 – Tasting M&S Fetească Albă (£8 Ocado): flavour profile, food pairing suggestions and why Romanian whites deserve more attention.
24:10 – Why Romanian wines deliver exceptional value and how Cramele Recaș maintains quality at every price point.
26:18 – The hidden challenges of producing wine in million-litre fermentation tanks.
29:19 – Minimal intervention winemaking and preserving the true expression of the grapes.
30:54 – Tasting Selene Fetească Neagră 2023 (£19.14 Firth & Co): Romania's flagship red grape and its distinctive silky tannins.
32:51 – Other native Romanian varieties and the growing international interest in indigenous wines.
35:02 – Exploring Romania's wine regions: Banat, Transylvania, Moldova and the influence of climate and geography.
36:50 – Expanding beyond Banat: the story behind Cramele Recaș's second winery near Moldova.
37:33 – Higher altitude vineyards, sparkling wine production and where Romania's coolest wine regions are found.
38:46 – Climate change, vineyard resilience and adapting to increasingly unpredictable vintages.
39:50 – The biggest challenges facing Romanian wine over the next twenty years.
44:54 – What Nora and Hartley brought back from Australia to improve modern Romanian winemaking.
45:38 – Which wine grape is the hardest to get right every vintage? The challenge of Fetească Neagră.
48:12 – A perfect wine travel itinerary for Timișoara, one of Europe's most underrated cultural destinations.
51:29 – ROVINHUD: the Romanian wine festival every wine lover should know about.
52:52 – What visitors should pay attention to when touring Cramele Recaș.
📩 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
Monday Jun 01, 2026
Monday Jun 01, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina sits down with Max Riedel of Riedel Glassware to explore one of the most debated topics in wine education and wine tasting: does the shape of a wine glass really change the way wine tastes?
From the science behind bowl size, rim diameter and aroma delivery to grape-specific wine glasses, decanters and the evolution of modern wine styles, Max shares insights from the Riedel family's glassmaking tradition dating back to 1756. Together, they discuss how different wine regions, wine grapes and winemaking approaches influence glass design, why varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay require different shapes, and how wine lovers can improve their wine appreciation through simple tasting experiments.
The conversation also explores decanting wine, collecting fine wine, memorable bottles, and the changing landscape of global wine culture. Whether you're passionate about wine education, curious about the impact of glassware on sensory perception, or simply looking to learn about wine and deepen your understanding of wine, this wine podcast episode is packed with practical insights, expert advice and fascinating stories from one of the most influential names in the wine world.
03:06 – Demystifying wine glasses — why aesthetics and weight matter less than functionality and sensory performance.
05:07 – The science behind glass shape — bowl size, rim diameter and how they influence aroma and flavour perception.
08:53 – Developing glasses for different wine regions — how feedback from winemakers shapes future designs.
10:56 – Why the right glass matters — Max explains the famous Riedel tasting experience comparing wines in different Riedel Veloce glasses.
13:31 – Chardonnay vs Pinot Noir glasses — why one Burgundy glass is not enough for two very different wine grapes.
16:38 – Growing up in the Riedel family — glassmaking history, storytelling and a family business dating back to 1756.
19:13 – Inside Max’s cellar — collecting wines, buying en primeur and the excitement of aging bottles over time.
20:42 – How many bottles are in Max Riedel’s cellar? A glimpse into a serious wine collection.
21:30 – Family memories in wine — wedding wines, children's vintages and a remarkable bottle dating back to 1756.
23:13 – Decanters explained — sediment, aeration and why decanting is about more than just old wines.
24:59 – Choosing a favourite decanter — Max discusses the iconic Riedel Amadeo Decanter and its connection to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
27:00 – How to clean a decanter properly — simple maintenance tips for keeping crystal glassware spotless.
29:43 – Wine regions that inspire Max — from Austria and Alsace to the future of German Riesling.
32:23 – Why Pinot Noir is so challenging — regional differences, minerality and the need for highly specific glass shapes.
33:55 – Choosing a Riedel range — from machine-made collections to handmade lines such as Fatto A Mano and Manufaktur.
36:09 – Sunday Wine Fun Day — family adventures, social media fame and opening great wines in unusual places.
38:07 – The oldest wine Max has tasted — an extraordinary blind tasting of an 1865 Bordeaux.
39:15 – The largest bottle Max has opened — sharing wine from an 18-litre bottle and the challenges that come with it.
40:24 – The wine grape that continues to surprise him — why Grüner Veltliner deserves more attention from wine lovers.
42:05 – Upcoming RIEDEL experiences — Max shares details about future tastings and wine glass events across the UK.
📩 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
Monday May 25, 2026
Monday May 25, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to one of the oldest and most fascinating wine regions in the world: Armenia. Joined by Master of Wine Caroline Gilby, this episode explores why Armenia is becoming one of the most exciting destinations for adventurous wine lovers, wine travel enthusiasts and anyone wanting to learn about wine beyond the classic regions.
Together, they dive into Armenia’s volcanic terroir, high-altitude vineyards, ancient winemaking history and indigenous wine grapes, including Areni Noir and Voskehat. They also discuss pre-phylloxera vines, clay amphora traditions, Armenian oak, modern winemaking evolution and why this ancient culture is entering a remarkable new chapter in wine education and global recognition.
If you want to learn about wine beyond the classic regions, explore indigenous wine grapes, or discover one of the world’s most fascinating wine travel destinations, this episode is for you.
02:42 – From science to wine — Caroline Gilby MW’s transition into the wine world and the tasting experiences that changed her career.
04:37 – Why Central and Eastern European wine regions became Caroline’s lifelong focus instead of classic destinations like France or California.
07:13 – Armenia explained — mountains, altitude, volcanic soils and one of the oldest wine cultures in the world.
09:25 – Volcanic terroir and minerality — how Armenia’s soils shape freshness, acidity and linear wine styles.
10:41 – Pre-phylloxera vineyards — volcanic soils, ancient vines and the impact of Soviet-era brandy production on Armenian wine.
13:12 – Vayots Dzor explained — Armenia’s flagship wine region and home to some of the country’s most exciting producers.
13:35 – Zorah and the Areni-1 Cave — discovering the world’s oldest known organised winery.
16:26 – The “newest old world wine country” — how Armenia’s ancient wine history connects with modern precision winemaking.
19:04 – Areni Noir explained — Armenia’s signature red wine grape, often described as Pinot Noir meets Corvina.
21:01 – Voskehat explained — Armenia’s flagship white wine grape and why it is gaining attention in modern wine education.
22:42 – Indigenous wine grapes — Armenia’s hundreds of native grape varieties and the revival of forgotten vineyards.
25:11 – Wine travel in Armenia — visiting wineries like Old Bridge and exploring Vayots Dzor’s remote wine culture.
25:52 – Planning wine travel in Armenia — winery visits, tastings and local hospitality experiences at Armas Wine Tours & Tastings and Old Bridge Winery Restaurant.
27:26 – Armenian hospitality — slower-paced wine travel, local food, monasteries and authentic cultural experiences.
27:45 – The Armenia Vineyard Trail — running through vineyards at altitude and finishing with a glass of Areni Noir.
29:19 – Beyond Vayots Dzor — other Armenian wine regions and emerging grape varieties to know.
30:54 – Armenian wine vs Georgian wine — clay vessels, skin contact wines and key stylistic differences between the neighbouring wine cultures.
33:02 – Relearning lost traditions — Armenia’s efforts to revive ancient clay vessel winemaking techniques.
36:20 – The biggest transformation in Armenian wine over the last 15 years — cleaner winemaking, experimentation and growing confidence.
37:16 – Tasting Areni Noir in clay, stainless steel and Armenian oak — how different vessels shape texture and style.
38:30 – Armenian oak explained — a distinctive oak species with unique balsamic characteristics and current supply challenges.
39:30 – Why Armenian wine is still evolving — experimentation, identity and the excitement of a young modern wine industry.
40:19 – The Armenian wine moment that changed Caroline Gilby’s perspective forever.
41:28 – How to buy Armenian wine — specialist importers and producers like Zorah and Armas.
42:25 – Armenian wine prices — why these wines are not cheap and why they still represent strong value.
43:14 – Tasting Zorah Areni Noir — freshness, concentration and excitement for Armenia’s future.
44:43 – Feeling overwhelmed by wine regions and wine grapes? Caroline’s advice for building wine knowledge through curiosity and exploration.
45:20 – Armenian culture beyond wine — monasteries, museums, food, history and why Armenia is a powerful wine travel destination.
📩 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
Grounded in the uploaded transcript and markers.
Sunday May 17, 2026
Sunday May 17, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores one of the most fascinating topics in wine education: aged wine. This is a deep dive into how wine changes over time, designed for anyone who wants to learn about wine, understand classic wine regions, and build confidence in tasting and evaluating wine.
Joined by award-winning wine writer and educator Kelli White, this wine podcast episode unpacks what really happens inside a bottle as it ages - from tannins and acidity to sediment, closures, and storage conditions.
Together, they explore how and why certain wine grapes and wines from regions like Burgundy, Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Barolo develop complexity and character with age, while others lose their structure.
Along the way, they also discuss wine travel experiences, the emotional side of opening mature bottles, and what it really means to build a wine collection — whether you are just starting out or already passionate about aged wines.
Whether you’re looking to learn about wine more deeply, explore iconic wine regions, or simply understand what makes aged wine so special, this episode brings together science, storytelling, and the romance of wine in one place.
02:31 – The first bottle that made Kelli White realise wine could be something profound.
03:46 – The first truly old wine Kelli tasted — an unforgettable Burgundy experience during harvest in France.
05:19 – Ceremony, emotion and memory — how older wines become part of life experiences.
06:57 – What’s currently in Kelli’s cellar — older Napa Valley wines, including a rare Charbono from Inglenook.
08:22 – Saving wines for special occasions — Burgundy, patience and deciding when to open a bottle.
09:08 – When does a wine become truly complex? Understanding the transition from youthful fruit to mature character in wines from regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy and Barolo.
10:48 – What actually happens inside a bottle over time — tannins, aromas, colour, acidity, classic wine grapes and texture explained.
19:23 – Why wine aging is unpredictable — evolving components, plateaus and misconceptions about “peak drinking windows.”
24:04 – What really helps wine age? Acidity, tannin, balance, craftsmanship and the role of wine storage.
26:11 – Ideal wine storage conditions — temperature, humidity, darkness and why consistency matters.
28:51 – Wine aging experiments — underwater cellaring, wines sent into space and a past wine podcast episode featuring Jane Anson.
29:32 – Common wine storage mistakes — kitchen heat, air conditioning units and sunlight exposure.
32:32 – Cork vs screw cap — closures, oxygen transfer and how modern wine technology is evolving.
34:39 – Hill of Grace by Henschke — one of Australia’s iconic fine wines proving premium wines can age under screw cap.
35:08 – Sediment explained — tannins, tartrate crystals, lees and why older wines develop deposits.
38:13 – How to train your palate for aged wine — practical ways to explore mature wines and discover your preferences.
42:46 – Decanting old wine — when oxygen helps and when it can completely destroy a fragile bottle.
45:26 – Janina’s experience opening a 1940s Château Troplong Mondot Bordeaux during restaurant service.
47:48 – Advice for anyone building a wine collection — curiosity, experimentation and keeping an open mind about wine styles.
48:28 – Unexpected wines that age beautifully — including rosés from López de Heredia, Clos Cibonne and Domaine Tempier.
50:32 – Kelli White’s book Wine Confident and Janina’s listener discount code EATSLEEP15 for Academie du Vin Library.
📩 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
Monday May 11, 2026
Monday May 11, 2026
If you're studying for the WSET Diploma D3 exam, or you simply want to deepen your understanding of one of the world's most iconic wine regions, this episode is your essential listen. Janina takes you on a deep dive into Bordeaux, delivering everything you need to know in an engaging, audio flashcard format. She asks the questions, you pause and think (or just absorb it all), and by the end you'll have a solid command of everything from the rivers that shape the region to the soils beneath the vines.
By the end of this episode, you'll be able to confidently name Bordeaux's key grape varieties and explain what each brings to a blend, describe the major appellations on both the Left Bank and Right Bank, understand how climate, vintage variation, and soil type influence wine style, and walk through the winemaking decisions -from vineyard to bottle - that define great Bordeaux. Whether you're revising for an exam or just want to sound impressively knowledgeable at your next dinner party, this one's for you.
💡 Want more flashcard-style episodes? Previously, Janina has also produced episodes to help with Fortified Wine and Sparkling Wine exams along with several other wine regions for D3 exams. You can find them here:
Ep 113: Shery, VdNs, Rutherglen Muscat
Ep 129: Sparkling Wine Production
Ep 142: All other sparkling wines
Timestamps
0:30 — Bordeaux Overview: production split (85% red, 9% dry white, 5% rosé)
2:24 — Location & Geography — The Garonne, Dordogne & Gironde Estuary; Left Bank vs. Right Bank
3:26 — History — The Dutch, wine merchants & brokers, and how Bordeaux built its global reputation
4:29 — The 1855 Classification — How it came about and why it still matters today
(Listen to Ep 239 - 4mins in for more details on this classification)
6:07 — Climate — Maritime influence, the Gulf Stream, and what makes a great vintage
7:21 — Forests, geography & Left Bank climate protection (the Landes pine forests)
7:24 — Rainfall variability and its impact on vine health and vintage quality
8:26 — Climate change: hotter summers, lower acidity, higher alcohol
9:17 — Extreme weather: frost, hail & vintage variation
10:20 — Soils — Why gravel is king on the Left Bank; heat retention, drainage & the croupe
13:43 — Right Bank soils: clay, limestone plateau & Merlot's natural home
14:07 — Grape Varieties: Merlot — Growth cycle, risks, flavour profile & why it dominates the Right Bank
17:33 — Grape Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon — Late budding, thick skins, disease risks & what it contributes to blends
18:46 — What happens when Cabernet Sauvignon doesn't ripen fully
19:20 — Grape Varieties: Cabernet Franc — Bud break, coulure risk, herbaceous character & canopy management
20:29 — Grape Varieties: Malbec — Vineyard behaviour, the 1956 frost & why it declined in Bordeaux
21:41 — Grape Varieties: Petit Verdot — Late ripening, small blending amounts & why climate change is reviving it
23:20 — Grape Varieties: White — Sémillon — Noble rot susceptibility, flavour profile, aging potential & its role in dry and sweet blends
25:39 — Grape Varieties: White — Sauvignon Blanc — Its contribution to dry and sweet Bordeaux wines
26:33 — Grape Varieties: White — Muscadelle — Aromatic qualities, Botrytis risk & use in sweet wines
27:05 — Vineyard Management — Planting density, vine spacing & costs
28:22 — Pruning systems: double vs. single Guyot; cordon trained vines
29:12 — Canopy management, leaf removal, disease pressure & trunk diseases (Eutypa & Esca)
31:18 — Organic viticulture: Flavescence Dorée, certification & 18% of Bordeaux certified organic in 2021
32:08 — Yield management: bunch thinning, natural balance & why extreme low yields are falling out of favour
33:03 — Harvesting: hand vs. machine picking; labour shortages in northern Médoc
34:24 — Winemaking: Red Wines — Fermentation vessels, extraction, maceration times & pressing
37:13 — Barrel aging: barriques, new oak proportions, racking & blending timing
38:41 — Winemaking: Rosé — Saignée vs. direct press; traditional vs. modern styles
39:07 — Winemaking: White Wines — Early drinking, mid-priced & high quality approaches; lees aging, bâtonnage & new oak trends
40:53 — Winemaking: Sweet Wines — Yields, multiple harvest passes, noble rot selection & barrel aging for top estates
44:11 — Appellations: Overview — 65 appellations; Bordeaux AOC & Bordeaux Supérieur yields and styles
46:19 — Left Bank: Médoc & Haut-Médoc — Yield limits, style differences & the four famous communes
47:19 — Saint-Estèphe — Clay soils, higher Merlot, rustic tannins & no first growths
47:47 — Pauillac — High Cabernet Sauvignon, three first growths, exceptional aging potential
48:27 — Saint-Julien — Between Pauillac's power and Margaux's finesse
48:44 — Margaux — Elegance, perfume, silky tannins & earlier ripening
49:31 — Listrac-Médoc & Moulis — Further from the river, less gravel, good to very good quality
49:43 — Graves & Pessac-Léognan — Best white wines in Bordeaux; red/white split; yields & style
51:47 — Entre-Deux-Mers — White wine only; second-largest appellation; fresh and inexpensive
52:12 — Right Bank: Saint-Émilion — Merlot dominance, Grand Cru rules, classification system & satellites
53:55 — Pomerol — ~80% Merlot, no classification, tiny estates, super-premium pricing & wine style
55:35 — Lalande-de-Pomerol & Côtes de Bordeaux appellations
56:06 — Côtes de Bourg — Malbec focus
56:27 — Sweet Wine Appellations: Sauternes & Barsac — Noble rot conditions, Ciron River mists, 25 hl/ha yields & wine style
58:12 — Other sweet wine appellations: Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, Loupiac & Premier Côtes de Bordeaux
58:42 — What's NOT covered in this episode (classifications, En Primeur, La Place de Bordeaux) — so follow these links to other episodes to supplement your wine learning:
📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat
🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat
🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk
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)
Monday May 04, 2026
Monday May 04, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina explores one of the fastest-growing trends in the world of wine: English rosé. Joined by Archie Patel - founder of Great British Rosé Week and creator of Dancing Duchess - this episode dives into how English rosé is evolving across different wine regions, styles and winemaking techniques.
From traditional method sparkling wines to Charmat expressions, this is a practical and engaging way to learn about wine, understand how rosé is made, and discover why England is becoming an exciting destination for wine travel. Along the way, you’ll also explore key wine grapes like Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir, while building your sparkling wine vocabulary.
Inspired by Great British Rosé Week in its 6th year, this episode is your invitation to get involved and celebrate - grab a bottle of English or Welsh rosé, still or sparkling, and join the conversation on Instagram using #GreatBritishRoséWeek and #GBRW.
05:22 – Growth of English rosé — how the category has evolved within modern wine regions and changing consumer trends.
07:22 – Why choose English rosé — cool climate, acidity and a unique regional wine identity.
10:26 – Rosé myths debunked — beyond Provence and why rosé is more diverse than people think.
10:40 – Tasting Dancing Duchess Rosé and exploring its style.
12:46 – How rosé is made — grape skins, colour extraction and key winemaking decisions.
14:49 – Sparkling rosé winemaking — from grape to bottle, including traditional method fundamentals.
19:01 – Pinot Meunier in focus — why this grape is gaining attention in modern wine education.
22:15 – Sourcing grapes — how producers navigate vineyards and relationships across wine regions.
24:26 – Base wines and blending — tasting components before final assemblage decisions.
24:36 – Lees aging — how time on lees builds texture, complexity and structure.
26:34 – Tasting the wine — floral, fresh and fruit-driven sparkling rosé profile.
29:23 – Dosage explained — how sweetness and balance are adjusted in sparkling wines
32:27 – Tasting Ambriel “Huzzah” Rosé and comparing styles.
33:25 – Pinot Noir rosé — deeper colour, structure and the impact of skin contact.
35:47 – Estate winemaking — Ambriel’s single-estate philosophy and on-site production.
36:54 – Regenerative viticulture — Wendy’s approach to biodiversity and sustainability at Ambriel.
40:04 – Describing wine styles — “feminine vs masculine” and how perception shapes tasting language.
42:52 – Tasting Silverhand “Silver Reign” Rosé using the Charmat method.
44:03 – Charmat method explained — tank fermentation and preserving fresh fruit character.
45:27 – Sustainability in action — Silver Hand is England’s first carbon-negative winery.
48:23 – Pinot Noir in sparkling rosé — structure, aromatics and stylistic contrast.
52:13 – Inside a modern winery — scale, innovation and the UK’s longest bottling line.
54:42 – Where to go for wine travel — top English wineries to visit for rosé experiences, including Ashling Park Estate, Hambledon Vineyard and Knightor Winery.
📩 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