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
4 days ago
4 days ago
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
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Monday Apr 27, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to the Atlantic coast of Galicia in Spain to explore one of the most exciting wine regions for white wines: Rías Baixas.
Joined by winemaker Aran Álvarez from Martín Códax, this episode is a deep dive into Albariño from Rías Baixas - one of the most expressive white wine grapes in the world. From terroir and climate to winemaking techniques, lees ageing, sparkling styles, orange wine and even noble rot, this episode explores just how many different expressions one grape can create.
If you want to learn about wine, understand how wine styles are shaped, and get inspired for your next wine travel destination, this episode is for you.
04:11 – Val do Salnés explained — the heart of Albariño and a key Atlantic wine region.
05:47 – Climate change — shifting rainfall patterns and their impact on vineyards.
06:46 – Pergola (emparrado) training — the traditional system adapted to humidity.
11:18 – Atlantic influence — how proximity to the ocean shapes salinity and freshness.
13:03 – A benchmark Albariño — fresh, saline and beautifully balanced; try Martín Códax Albariño (Rías Baixas)
15:12 – Granitic soils — drainage, organic matter and their role in wine structure.
17:11 – Winemaking styles — from fresh Albariño to lees-aged expressions such as Martín Códax Lías
21:05 – Lees aging explained — how it transforms texture, flavour and complexity.
22:38 – Batonnage technique — how winemakers integrate lees without oxidation.
26:28 – Innovation at Martín Códax — why experimentation drives new wine styles.
28:58 – Why make sparkling Albariño (Martín Códax Espumoso)? Exploring the grape’s natural potential.
30:03 – Harvest timing — multiple harvest stages depending on wine style.
32:21 – Lessons from sparkling winemaking — acidity, timing and precision.
37:28 – Lees interaction — why Albariño absorbs texture and complexity so well.
38:45 – Dry Albariño affected by Noble Rot (Martín Códax Gallaecia) — how a rare late-harvest wine style was developed.
44:26 – Orange wine (Martín Códax OW) — skin contact, structure and a completely different expression.
47:58 – Aging potential — how Albariño evolves beyond its youthful freshness.
49:43 – Climate adaptation — vineyard experiments, data and future-proofing the grape.
52:31 – Martín Códax philosophy — community, culture and generational winemaking.
📩 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 Apr 20, 2026
Monday Apr 20, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina takes you inside the London Wine Fair to explore the rise of English wine and its growing presence on the global stage.
Through conversations with leading producers - Simpson’s Wine Estate, Roebuck Estates, 1276 Wines and Everflyht - this episode dives into the people, wines and techniques shaping modern English wine.
From Pinot Meunier clones and Bacchus to sustainability, sparkling wine production and tasting highlights, this is a must-listen if you want to better understand English wine and discover the styles, grapes and producers to know.
And don’t forget, if you are in the wine trade, block out the dates 18-20 May for London Wine Fair 2026, Olympia, London.
02:06 – Introduction to English wine at London Wine Fair - a key moment for this growing wine region.
04:23 – Pinot Meunier clones - why they’re less discussed but still important wine grapes.
05:27 – What defines a Simpson’s wine - terroir, identity and precision winemaking.
08:55 – New pressing technologies – innovation in English winemaking.
10:10 – Simpsons, Roman Road Chardonnay 2023 £32 - what to expect in balance, minerality and texture.
12:39 – Export markets - how English wine is expanding globally.
14:35 – Misconceptions about English wine - understanding quality and value.
17:13 – Simpsons Wines to discover at London Wine Fair
18:27 – Roebuck Estates and vineyard-focused winemaking.
22:19 – Blending decisions - shaping house style and consistency in sparkling wine.
24:45 – Tasting Roebuck, Rosé de Noir 2019 £42 - structure, fruit and lees complexity.
26:31 – Pinot Noir Précoce - early ripening and its role among English wine grapes.
29:15 – Rare Expression wines - small batch experimentation and aging potential.
32:04 – Ecology in the vineyard - sustainability and innovation in modern wine education.
34:27 – Roebuck Wines available to try at London Wine Fair.
34:52 – 1276 Wines and Herefordshire as a surprising wine region.
40:44 – Climate challenges - rainfall, ripening and regional differences.
42:34 – Bacchus explained - a signature English wine grape to watch.
44:50 – Acidity in English wines - balancing freshness and texture.
47:32 – Tasting 1276, Chardonnay 2024 £24 - floral aromatics, structure and elegance.
48:34 – Experimentation with Cabernet Sauvignon - pushing boundaries in cool-climate viticulture.
50:45 – 1276 Wines to try at London Wine Fair.
51:28 – Everflyht and regenerative viticulture.
52:51 – Vineyard philosophy - sustainability, soil health and long-term thinking.
54:49 – Canopy management - the technique with the biggest impact on fruit quality.
55:29 – Manual vs mechanical work - precision vs efficiency in the vineyard.
56:49 – Leaf stripping explained - sunlight exposure and vine balance.
58:17 – Managing vine growth - long-term vineyard strategy.
59:34 – Regenerative viticulture - one practical change with measurable impact.
01:03:04 – Everflyht Cuvée Edition 3 £30 - Solera system continutes to the uniqueness.
01:04:34 – Everflyht New Wine: Wylde - Charmat vs traditional method in English sparkling wine.
01:06:16 – Everflyht wines to try at London Wine Fair.
📩 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 Apr 13, 2026
Monday Apr 13, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to Umbria, Italy’s “green heart”, to explore one of the country’s most underrated wine regions: Orvieto DOC.
Joined by wine educator and ambassador Luisa Salussolia, this episode blends wine education, wine travel inspiration, and a deep dive into wine grapes that define the region. From volcanic soils and indigenous varieties like Grechetto and Procanico, to food pairings, tasting tips and travel advice, this is your guide to discovering Orvieto and expanding your understanding of Italian wine.
If you’re looking to learn about wine, discover new regions and plan your next wine trip, this episode is for you.
02:53 – Discovering Orvieto — why this underrated wine region deserves more attention.
04:19 – The Umbrian landscape — a perfect destination for wine travel with history, nature and value.
06:40 – Montefalco Sagrantino — one of Italy’s boldest red wine grapes.
08:42 – Arnaldo Caprai and the wine that helped redefine this part of Italy.
09:38 – Link back to the Episode 254 on Sangiovese and Brunello di Montalcino.
11:11 – Becoming an Orvieto ambassador — combining wine education with real regional experience.
12:36 – Why Orvieto DOC stands out — terroir, indigenous wine grapes and quality-driven producers.
14:53 – Classico Superiore explained — what it means for quality and aging.
15:53 – Historic wineries and Etruscan cellars — where history meets modern winemaking.
17:56 – Grechetto explained — one of the key wine grapes shaping Orvieto wines.
19:42 – Procanico (Trebbiano Toscano) — freshness, acidity and structure in the blend.
21:28 – Understanding Trebbiano — why this family of wine grapes is so complex.
22:20 – Tasting Decugnano dei Barbi 'Mare Antico' Orvieto Classico Superiore 2023 — texture, salinity and mineral expression. Buy with Eurowines.co.uk £22.99
25:01 – Food pairings — truffles, wild boar and classic Umbrian dishes.
27:32 – Tenuta Le Velette, Lunato, Orvieto Classico Superiore 2024 — volcanic soils and a savoury wine style.
35:17 – Planning your trip — practical tips for wine travel in Orvieto.
36:56 – Visiting wineries — authentic experiences in one of Italy’s hidden wine regions.
38:30 – Regenerative viticulture — an important topic in modern wine education.
41:30 – One key vineyard change — how no-till farming can impact wine quality.
42:23 – Tasting tips — how to learn about wine through a structured approach.
46:35 – Wine recommendations — discovering new regions and styles beyond the mainstream.
48:41 – Final Old Vine wine picks — Bodega Cerron, La Calera del Escaramujo Monastrell and Nuits-St Georges, Rue de Chaux, 1er Cru, Domaine Chicotot, Burgundy
📩 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 Apr 06, 2026
Monday Apr 06, 2026
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, the wine podcast dedicated to wine education, Janina Doyle dives deep into the world of Australian Shiraz with one of the country’s most respected wine critics, Huon Hooke, lead reviewer for The Real Review.
Together they explore the diversity of Shiraz across Australia’s most famous wine regions - from the powerful wines of Barossa Valley to the savoury elegance of Hunter Valley and the peppery character of Grampians. They also discuss the oldest Shiraz vines in the country, how soil and climate influence style, which regions offer the best value today and where the future of Australian Shiraz is heading.
If you want to learn about wine, explore different wine grapes (with a few mentions of other varieties along the way, even though this episode focuses on Shiraz) and understand how climate and terroir shape flavour, this episode offers a fascinating journey through one of the world’s most iconic varieties. It’s also packed with insights for anyone planning wine travel in Australia or wanting to better understand the country’s diverse wine landscape.
Whether you love bold, plush Shiraz or cooler-climate, spice-driven expressions, this episode is a perfect introduction to the remarkable range of Australian Shiraz.
Shownotes
02:44 – What makes Australian Shiraz so distinctive and why it remains one of the country’s defining grape varieties.
04:18 – Huon Hooke shares how he first became interested in wine and how his career in wine reviewing began.
05:17 – The oldest producing Shiraz vineyards in Australia (Langmeil Vineyard) and what makes these historic vines so remarkable.
07:49 – The most expensive Australian Shiraz currently on release (Henske Hill of Grace) and the experience behind ultra-premium wines.
08:28 – A discussion about Torbreck, one of the most famous producers of Barossa Valley Shiraz.
09:41 – The oldest vintage of Australian Shiraz Huon has personally tasted and how Shiraz evolves over decades.
10:55 – Introducing the core theme of the episode: exploring Shiraz across Australia’s different wine regions.
13:45 – Which Australian Shiraz region may currently be the most underrated.
15:39 – Which regions may deliver the best value for money when buying Shiraz.
17:20 – If opening a bottle for a special occasion, which style or region Huon Hooke would personally choose.
18:55 – A closer look at Barossa Valley Shiraz and its signature bold fruit and rich structure.
21:12 – Comparing Eden Valley Shiraz and Barossa Valley Shiraz and how cooler conditions influence Shiraz style.
25:11 – How soil composition and geology shape the flavour and texture of Shiraz.
27:33 – Understanding the intensity of Shiraz and how different regions express power differently.
28:49 – Where Heathcote sits geographically within Victoria and its growing reputation for Shiraz.
30:49 – The role of Shiraz in Australian wine statistics and production.
33:51 – How Clare Valley Shiraz fits into the broader Australian Shiraz conversation.
36:00 – Grampians Shiraz and its distinctive spice-driven style and how it has evolved.
37:48 – The Canberra District and the effect of altitude and climate on Shiraz.
39:05 – The best wine regions to visit from Sydney for a weekend wine trip.
41:30 – Other emerging or lesser-known regions that deserve attention for Shiraz.
43:13 – The future of Australian Shiraz: trends in winemaking, blending and oak usage.
46:14 – How Huon Hooke’s wine reviewing career has evolved over the last two decades and how the Australian wine scene has changed.
49:01 – What wine lovers can find on The Real Review, including top wine lists and best-value bottles.
50:36 – Why Shiraz remains such a joyful and versatile grape variety and why we should all be drinking more of it.
53:56 – Next week: Janina heads to Sicily to explore Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG.
Wineries Suggested for a comparison tasting
- Torbreck Shiraz (Barossa Valley)
- Mount Langi Ghiran Shiraz (Grampians)
- Tyrrell’s Shiraz (Hunter Valley)
📩 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)
– Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Monday Mar 30, 2026
In this episode of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat wine podcast, Janina heads to Vittoria in the south of Sicily to explore one of Italy’s most exciting and evolving wine regions.
Joined by Stefano Girelli of Santa Tresa and Cortese, this episode blends wine education with a deep dive into organic viticulture, biodiversity, and the future of wine grapes in a warming climate.
From indigenous Sicilian varieties to experimental vineyards preserving rare grapes, you’ll learn about wine through both tradition and innovation. And if you’re dreaming of wine travel, this episode might just inspire your next trip to Sicily.
05:28 – An introduction to Santa Tresa and Cortese, and how the two estates differ in style, philosophy and wine expression.
08:24 – Travel tips for visiting Vittoria, including why Ragusa is an ideal and authentic place to stay when exploring the region.
09:27 – Why Vittoria still feels like a hidden gem compared to more famous Sicilian destinations, offering a more authentic wine travel experience.
11:39 – A fun dive into the portfolio: which wine is perfect for a romantic proposal or special celebration (Il Frappatto Sparkling).
12:41 – The ideal wine for a day at the beach (Grillo-Viognier) highlighting fresh, vibrant styles that suit Sicily’s coastal lifestyle (or a chilled Frappato).
14:19 – Wines for colder moments: richer, more structured styles that work perfectly by the fireplace. (Cerasuolo di Vittoria)
16:05 – The reality of going organic in Sicily, including the challenges, strict regulations and why many considered it a bold move.
18:04 – What does “organic” really mean in wine? Stefano's personal definition.
21:58 – How to recognise an organic or biodiverse vineyard just by walking through it, with practical visual clues for wine lovers.
24:03 – A return to traditional farming methods, and how modern viticulture is rediscovering practices from the past.
29:24 – Adapting to climate change: vineyard techniques such as shading, trellising and how they impact grape ripening.
31:17 – The scale of experimentation: dozens of indigenous and rare grape varieties being cultivated and studied.
33:59 – The search for the grapes of the future, and how forgotten Sicilian varieties may become key in a warming world.
37:31 – Albanello: a rediscovered white grape variety with distinctive herbal, minty and fresh characteristics.
39:54 – What will we be drinking in the future? A broader discussion on how climate change is reshaping wine regions and grape selection.
41:10 – Understanding Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Sicily 's only DOCG, and how Nero d’Avola and Frappato work together in the blend.
45:23 – Comparing styles between producers and estates, including differences in structure, fruit profile and winemaking approach.
48:37 – How different winemaking techniques affect tannin structure and texture in the final wine.
50:26 – The impact of fermentation and aging choices on flavour, colour and overall wine style.
52:35 – A look at key Sicilian wine grapes, including both well-known and lesser-known varieties.
54:44 – Catarratto Lucido and other white grapes that deserve more attention in Sicily’s evolving wine scene.
56:14 – Final reflections from Stefano on the philosophy behind the estate and the future direction of their wines.
58:56 – Why this region and these wines are worth discovering.
59:40 – A unique white blend (Vanedda) made with extended skin contact, fermented like a red wine to build structure, texture and ageing potential.
01:00:43 – Visit Santa Tresa & book a wine experience
📩 Questions or feedback? 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)
– Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
Monday Mar 23, 2026
Monday Mar 23, 2026
In this episode of the wine podcast, Janina dives into one of Italy’s most prestigious and age-worthy wines: Brunello di Montalcino.
Joined by Italian wine expert Ian D’Agata, this episode blends wine education with a deep exploration of wine regions, helping you learn about wine through the lens of Sangiovese.
From wine grapes and clonal diversity to terroir, aging potential and tasting profiles, you’ll discover what makes Brunello unique and how this iconic Tuscan wine compares to others made from the same grape.
Plus, if you love wine travel, you’ll hear about an immersive opportunity to study wine directly in Montalcino, tasting up to 100 wines with producers in the region.
To find out more about joining The Ian D’Agata Wine Academy in Montalcino on 16th, 17th & 18th April 2026 click here.
Or email Giulia Corino <giulia.corino@iandagatawine.com>
For those attending the Ian D’Agata Wine Academy, there will be a special guest speaker session led by Maddy Jimerson MS, Master Sommelier and Director of Casa Mia in Denver. With a strong connection to Alto Piemonte, where she regularly spends time, Maddy will be guiding an in-depth session focused on the wines of this fascinating region of Italy.
SHOWNOTES:
02:52 – Ian explains why wine education is so important, sharing how great teachers shaped his career and why helping people understand wine makes a real difference.
05:56 – Why most people stick to familiar wines - and how learning about lesser-known Italian grape varieties can completely change how you choose a bottle.
10:00 – Looking beyond Brunello and Barolo, Ian highlights powerful Italian red wine grapes like Aglianico that deserve more attention.
11:02 – Introduction to Ian’s Wine Academy in Montalcino, where small groups taste up to 100 wines while learning directly in the region.
14:12 – Setting the scene in Tuscany: the rolling hills, vineyards and landscapes that make Montalcino one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world.
15:56 – Key differences between Montalcino and Chianti wine regions, and how climate and landscape shape completely different expressions of Sangiovese.
17:04 – Can you identify Sangiovese wines in a blind tasting? A breakdown of how blends, climate and structure influence the final wine style.
20:57 – The origin of the name “Brunello” and how a specific type of Sangiovese gave rise to this iconic wine.
24:42 – Exploring the complexity of Sangiovese: over 100 clones and how producers select and combine them to improve quality.
26:57 – What it means for a vine to be “virus-affected” and why this can sometimes lead to more concentrated, higher-quality wines.
29:11 – How to recognise Sangiovese in the glass: red fruit, acidity, tannins and the characteristic herbal and floral notes.
31:56 – The aging requirements of Brunello di Montalcino and why these wines can develop beautifully over decades.
34:32 – Castiglion del Bosco: a historic estate that has significantly increased its quality in recent years and plays a role in Ian’s course.
35:49 – Rosso di Montalcino explained: a more accessible, earlier-drinking style that offers great value from the same region.
39:46 – The key soil types of Montalcino (galestro, alberese and more) and how they influence structure, minerality and mouthfeel.
41:11 – What the course experience looks like day-to-day, from tastings and classes to winery visits and shared meals.
42:09 – Moscadello di Montalcino: the lesser-known sweet wine of the region that still survives today.
44:54 – The range of wines tasted during the course, covering multiple Italian wine regions, styles and grape varieties.
47:49 – Who the course is designed for: both wine professionals and enthusiasts who want to deepen their wine knowledge.
50:46 – Course dates and availability, including upcoming sessions in April and November.
52:24 – How the course aligns with major wine events like Vinitaly, making it ideal for those already travelling in Italy.
53:27 – How to get more information and book your place on the course. Email Giulia Corino <giulia.corino@iandagatawine.com> and more details on Ian D’Agata’s website.
📩 Questions or feedback? 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)
– Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list