From the historic influence of Frederick II and Castel del Monte to the evolution of Bocca di Lupo within the Marchesi Antinori project, the conversation connects history, family roots, and modern winemaking. They also discuss Puglia’s potential answer to “Super Tuscans.”

More about today’s guest:

Tormaresca is the Apulian project of Marchesi Antinori, created to explore and elevate the region’s winemaking potential through a combination of tradition, research, and innovation. The estate works across key areas of Puglia, focusing on both native and international grape varieties. At the heart of the project is Bocca di Lupo, located in the Castel del Monte area. This high-altitude estate is dedicated to expressing the unique terroir of Alta Murgia, with a strong focus on varieties such as Aglianico and Nero di Troia, alongside carefully selected international grapes.

Vito Palumbo is CEO of Tormaresca and Tenuta Bocca di Lupo. Originally from Puglia, he combines a background in finance with a deep connection to the region, leading the estates with a vision that blends cultural identity, sustainability, and innovation.

Connect:

Website: https://tenutaboccadilupo.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenuta_bocca_di_lupo/ 

Linkedin: https://it.linkedin.com/company/tormaresca 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tenutaboccadilupo 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Precision drives growth in a down market: focus on discipline, portfolio clarity, and reallocating resources to the segments that matter most
• Demand generation is essential: distribution alone no longer guarantees sales—brands must actively build demand, even if it means exiting certain markets
• Friction is the biggest barrier: simplifying how wine is bought and sold is critical for both consumers and the trade

More about the guest:

Philana Bouvier is the President of Demeine Estates which serves and supports the dynamic and growing portfolio of the Lawrence family and Managing Partner, Carlton McCoy Jr. owned fine wine estates and import supplier partners. The collection includes Heitz Cellar, Burgess, Stony Hill, Ink Grade, Philipponnat, Mazzei, Ca Rome, Roc de l'Abbaye, Villa Sandi, and La Chablisienne, and additional esteemed international producers across France and Italy. In a short amount of time, Demeine Estates has had the honor of being nominated for "Importer of the Year" in Wine Enthusiast's Wine Star Awards in 2022, and Philana was recognized by Wine Enthusiast as a 2023 Future 40 Tastemaker. She has also been recognized as one of the Most Influential Women in Bay Area Business by the San Francisco Business Times and received a Trailblazer Award by North Bay Business Journal as part of their 2024 Women in Wine awards.

Connect: 

Website: https://demeineestates.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/demeineestates/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/demeine-estates/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076889298090 

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Attilio Scienza.

More about today’s guest:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Describe the history and development of Tenuta di Tavignano and understand the vision and leadership of Ondine de la Feld in shaping the estate today.
• Explain the importance of Castelli di Jesi for growing Verdicchio in the Marche.
• Understand how vineyard sites, sustainability practices, and strategic estate decisions contribute to expressing identity and innovation.

More about today’s host:

Before finding her calling in wine, Elena had a successful career in sports marketing, most notably working with the Italian Olympic Committee at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. In search of a life-changing experience, she moved from Italy to London in 2011 and pursued her passion for wine. She began as a Wine Advisor at Fortnum & Mason before transitioning into hospitality, working as a Sommelier at The Royal Automobile Club and The Oriental Club. There, she was promoted to Head Sommelier/Beverage Manager and completed both the WSET Diploma and the WSET Educator Programme. She later led the Education department at Berkmann Wine Cellars until 2021 and now teaches WSET courses at all levels in various London wine schools while providing consultancy to the on-trade. As an Italian Wine Ambassador and Langhe Ambassador, Elena is passionate about sharing the rich diversity of Italian wines. Being able to inspire others and make a living from her passion is something she considers a true privilege.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barattinielena 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elena-barattini-dipwset-iwa-langhe-ambassador-iws-6b6b5630/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Tenuta di Tavignano is a historic family estate located in the Castelli di Jesi area of Le Marche, known for its strong commitment to Verdicchio. The winery is recognized among the leading producers of the denomination, with wines such as Misco gaining international acclaim. Rooted in tradition yet forward-looking, Tavignano focuses on sustainability, territorial identity, and long-term stewardship of its vineyards.

Ondine de la Feld leads the estate, bringing a background in architecture and a clear strategic vision. She guides the winery through a generational transition, combining respect for heritage with a modern approach to winemaking and brand development.

Connect:

Website: https://tenutaditavignano.it 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenutatavignano/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tenutaditavignano 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ondine-de-la-feld-349626137/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 11: Leggende, monasteri e vini sulla Via Romea Germanica

You want to dive into the stories and myths behind Professor Scienza’s new series, but Italian isn’t your thing? No problem! You’ll find all the conversations, translated in english, in the new Mamma Jumbo Shrimp book: An Italian Wine Pilgrimage: with Professor Attilio Scienza. Now available in English on Amazon.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine.

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Gino Ferraro is the owner, host, and wine curator behind Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar in Las Vegas, a family-run institution founded in 1985. Originally from Calabria, Italy, Gino moved to the United States at a young age, settling first in Syracuse, New York, before making Las Vegas his home in 1976.

Over nearly five decades in the city, he has built one of the most respected Italian dining destinations in Las Vegas. Today, the restaurant, located on Paradise Road, remains a true family operation, co-owned with his wife Rosalba, with their son Mimmo serving as Executive Chef and carrying forward multi-generational recipes.

A passionate advocate for Italian wine, Gino has curated one of the most extensive Italian-focused wine lists in Las Vegas, featuring almost 1,800 labels. His dedication to wine has earned international recognition, including the Tre Bottiglie award for the wine list and the prestigious Tre Forchette for the restaurant’s cuisine from Gambero Rosso, as well as the Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator.

Connect:

Website: https://www.ferraroslasvegas.com/about-us/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ferraroslv/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ferraroslv/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gino-ferraro-26238ba/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

As an official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, Piedmont's premier wine event that took place on January 26-27, in Turin. Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today’s guest: Paolo Bongioanni, Councillor for Agriculture, Food, Hunting, Fishing, Parks, Tourism and Sport of the Piedmont Region.

About the Grandi Langhe: 

Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine events, dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Piedmont. Organized with the support of the region’s leading wine consortia, it brings together hundreds of producers representing top denominations such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Roero, Gavi, Asti, and Alta Langa. The event is designed as a key meeting point for international trade, offering tastings, professional networking, and a powerful snapshot of Piedmont’s role in the global wine market.

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/  

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

In this episode, Ryan explores the bridge between myth and modern wine—uncovering how history, legend, and storytelling shape the way we understand and experience wine today.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass.

About Ryan Robinson:

Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting Team, representing the United States and the World Wine Tasting Championships and holds the credentials of Advanced Sommelier-CMS; WSET Diploma and WSET Educator in Wine, Sake and Beer; Rioja Wine Educator; VIA Italian Wine Ambassador; Wine Scholar Guild Educator and Italian and Spanish Wine Specialist; and Certified Scotch Whisky.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommryan/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sommryan/ 

The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza is available now at: https://mammajumboshrimp.com/products/the-art-of-wine-storytelling 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Explore Anna’s journey from Belgium to Italy, taking a leap of faith to become a winemaker and build a life in the vineyards from scratch.
• Understand the challenges and determination behind creating a new project without inherited vineyards, and the work required to establish a place in the market.
• Discover how dedication, vision, and perseverance can lead to outstanding wine quality in a relatively short time.

More about today’s host:  

As an Italian Wine Ambassador based in Brazil and in Piemonte, Mauricio has recently visited more than 150 wineries in Italy and is actively promoting Italian wines in Brazil and for Brazilians around the globe, particularly highlighting lesser-known native grapes. With a 30+ year career in finance as a background, he is also bringing his business expertise into the Italian wine industry.

Mauricio created The Wine Partners, a buyers’ club that bridges the best talent in the industry with more engaged, 'hands-on' wine lovers. This platform empowers small, family-owned producers by allowing Partners not only to buy direct but also to have unique winemaking experiences. The Wine Partners has chapters in Miami, Orlando, NY, Lisbon, and São Paulo. Mauricio has discovered an immense number of smaller wine producers who offer high-quality yet unrecognized wines, making Italy the place to be for the avid wine lover.

Connect:

Website: http://www.thewinepartners.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dechiaroma/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauriciodechiaro/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dechiaroma 

More about today’s guest:  

Anna De Backer is a Belgian-born winemaker and co-owner of I Divini, a small family winery based in Isola d’Asti, in Piemonte, where she works alongside her husband. I Divini focuses on sustainable agriculture and the production of elegant, contemporary wines from autochthonous grape varieties, with a strong emphasis on expressing the character of the territory and a sense of identity in every bottle.

After a first career in interior architecture, Anna chose to completely retrain and follow her passion for wine, moving to Italy to build a new life in the vineyards. Her creative background continues to shape her approach today, inspiring a thoughtful and intuitive style of winemaking.

Connect:

Website: https://www.idivini.wine 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idivini_azienda_agricola/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/iDiviniAziendaAgricola 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/idivini/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 10: Vini, leggende e vitigni tra Romagna e Toscana

You want to dive into the stories and myths behind Professor Scienza’s new series, but Italian isn’t your thing? No problem! You’ll find all the conversations, translated in english, in the new Mamma Jumbo Shrimp book: An Italian Wine Pilgrimage: with Professor Attilio Scienza. Now available in English on Amazon.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine.

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Catabbo is a family-run winery based in San Martino in Pensilis, in Molise, dedicated to the revival of Tintilia, a once nearly forgotten native grape. Founded on the vision of Vincenzo Catabbo, one of the pioneers in rediscovering and replanting Tintilia, the estate is now carried forward by the second generation.

Today, the winery works with organically certified vineyards, focusing on authenticity and a strong sense of place. From vineyard to cellar—including the use of amphorae—Catabbo aims to express the pure character of Tintilia and the identity of Molise in every bottle.

Sara Catabbo, together with her siblings, represents the new generation behind the winery, contributing to its development and international presence while continuing the family’s commitment to preserving local wine heritage.

Connect:

Website: https://catabbo.it/en/home/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catabbocantine/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catabbocantine 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Cristina Mercuri MW.

More about today’s guest:

Cristina Mercuri MW is an acclaimed wine educator, presenter, and Founder & CEO of Mercuri Wine Club, an innovative academy and consultancy supporting leading Italian wine brands in education, communication, and marketing. She conducts masterclasses, judges internationally, consults for private and promotional events, and contributes regularly to Forbes. Formerly a lawyer, she transitioned to wine in 2015, achieving her WSET Diploma in 2017 and joining the MW programme in 2018/19. In 2026, she successfully passed her research paper and became Italy’s first female Master of Wine. Between 2019 and 2022, she became a Certified Sherry, Cava, and Port Educator, as well as Italian VDP Ambassador. Cristina trains students from beginners to WSET Diploma candidates and provides bespoke corporate training focused on sales strategies and marketing tools. She collaborates with consortia, wineries, distributors, restaurants, and luxury brands. She is also among Italy’s most-followed wine educators on Instagram (@cristinamercuri_wine).

Connect:

Website: https://www.wine-club.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cristinamercuri_wine/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-mercuri-dipwset-004376a/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

More about the guest:

Jeremy McCarty is the initiator of the Diversity Wines platform, a hub for diverse/woman owned wineries, wine lounges, wine creatives and wine professionals to collaborate, market to consumers and take advantage of discounted services.  The website is a searchable worldwide directory of diverse/woman owned wine brands and establishes communities of wine consumers to socialize and meet each other.

Connect:

Website: https://www.diversitywines.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversitywines/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556829729939

More about our host: 

VIA certified Italian Wine Ambassador and sommelier with FIS, Cynthia Chaplin is a professor of Italian Wine and Culture, with 20 years experience in the wine industry. Cynthia is a certified wine educator, author, international judge, and content creator. She designs and presents events for embassies, corporate and private clients, develops Italian wine collections for restaurants and private clients and works with Italian wineries to train their sales and export staff.

Hosting Voices has increased her commitment to DEI in the wine sector, interviewing emerging and established wine professionals and discussing topics such as inclusivity, equity, language, sustainability and challenges facing under-represented groups and cultures as they move into careers in wine. As a certified WSET Educator, Cynthia is passionate about developing wine education for a future that will have a place at the table for anyone interested in wine.

Connect:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Italian-Wines-in-English/100036868372598/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiss_my_glassx/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand Leonardo Berti’s role and Poggio di Sotto’s prime location for Sangiovese in Montalcino.
• Explore vineyard biotypes, soil, altitude, and climate strategies shaping the wines.
• Learn the estate’s winemaking philosophy and approach to crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines.

More about today’s host:  

Alberto Rivera embarked on his journey in the world of wine after concluding his service as a diplomat at the Mexican Embassy in Japan. He began his career by developing a private wine collection and hosting exclusive tastings for a discerning clientele. Following the successful completion of the Italian program of the Wine Scholar Guild, he was appointed Italian Wine Director for a Latin American online platform, where he lectured to emerging wine professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge of Italian wine and its cultural context as a tool to enhance their sales strategies.

In 2024, Mr. Rivera was admitted to the prestigious Vinitaly International Academy in Verona, where he successfully passed the rigorous examination to become an Italian Wine Ambassador. He also holds the title of Langhe Wine Ambassador. Today, he serves as a consultant for Italian-specialized restaurants in Chihuahua and the northern region of Mexico, advising on wine selection and curating programs that highlight Italy’s rich viticultural heritage.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somm.albertorivera/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/y-alberto-rivera-o/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Poggio di Sotto was established in 1989 and today comprises around 44 hectares of land, of which approximately 16 hectares are under vine. It is considered one of the benchmark estates of Montalcino, known for its rigorous organic viticulture and site-driven approach. The vineyards are located on the south-eastern side of the appellation, at elevations ranging from about 200 to 450 meters, with a mix of galestro, clay, and mineral-rich soils.

The estate works exclusively with Sangiovese Grosso, focusing on low yields, meticulous canopy management, and relatively late harvesting to achieve full phenolic ripeness. In the cellar, fermentations occur with indigenous yeasts, followed by extended aging in large Slavonian oak casks.

Leonardo Berti holds a degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of Florence. He began his career with the Antinori family and is now part of the agronomic and oenological team overseeing Poggio di Sotto and Tenuta San Giorgio within the ColleMassari group.

Connect:

Website: https://www.poggiodisotto.it/it/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collemassari-estates/posts/?feedView=all 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardo_berti6/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 9: Dai Vini Retici al Prosecco

You want to dive into the stories and myths behind Professor Scienza’s new series, but Italian isn’t your thing? No problem! You’ll find all the conversations, translated in english, in the new Mamma Jumbo Shrimp book: An Italian Wine Pilgrimage: with Professor Attilio Scienza. Now available in English on Amazon.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine.

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

Together, they discuss Jessica’s journey into the wine world — from a career in tech to the Vinitaly International Academy — and take a closer look at how Italian wine performs in the Singapore market. The conversation also dives into the intersection of Italian wine and Southeast Asian cuisine, highlighting exciting pairing possibilities and evolving consumer trends.

More about today’s guest:

Jessica Anne Tan is a wine educator, journalist, and strategic event organizer specializing in Italian wine education and brand development across Southeast Asia. A Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW, WSET Level 3) and Wine Scholar Guild-approved Italian Wine Scholar educator, she is also one of the first female Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassadors in the region.

Jessica combines technical expertise with creative storytelling to make wine education both accessible and compelling. She has led successful brand launches and integrated marketing campaigns for Italian wine brands and consortia, delivering experiences that engage trade and consumer audiences alike. Through WineSafariItalia.com, she continues to champion native Italian grape varieties and elevate wine literacy with clarity, warmth, and strategic precision.

Connect:

Website: https://www.winesafariitalia.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaannetan 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessatan/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/singapoured/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Read the article: https://www.winebusiness.com/wbm/article/312710 

Key Takeaways:

• This is not simply a volume crisis, it’s a relevance crisis. The key question is how wine fits (or fails to fit) into modern lifestyles and consumer habits.
• The wine industry structure is evolving. Traditional distribution and market models are being challenged, requiring adaptation and new approaches.
• Performance gaps are widening. While some wineries are struggling, others are thriving.

More about the guest:

Cyril Penn is editor in chief of Wine Business Monthly and winebusiness.com, part of Wine Communications Group, the leading supplier of information to the wine industry.  Penn has been with WBM since 2000. His work on the wine business has appeared in a number of publications, including the San Francisco Chronicle, where he contributed the Wine Business Insider column for five years. Penn has traveled to wine regions throughout North America, Europe and South America as a speaker and wine judge. Prior to joining WBM, he was managing editor of the California Energy Markets newsletter in San Francisco. His background includes several years as a freelance journalist. Following stints at the Columbia Journalism Review and MacNeil Lehrer Report (now the PBS NewsHour), Penn worked for Reuters in New York. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in media studies from Fordham University.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.winebusiness.com 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyril-penn-8a60895/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cyril.penn 

Twitter: https://x.com/CyrilPenn 

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

As an official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, Piedmont's premier wine event that took place on January 26-27, in Turin. Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today’s guest: Massimo Damonte, President of the Consorzio di Tutela del Roero.

More about Consorzio di Tutela del Roero:

The wine producers of Roero were joined in the Roero Producers’ Consortium, acknowledged with a decree published in the Official Gazette, on the 4th of March 2014, with the objective to perform the functions of protection, advancement, promotion, consumer information and general care of the interests related to the “Roero” Docg.

Today there are more than 250 consortium members made up of producers and growers, and more than 1,250 hectares of Roero Designation vineyards, with a total of about 8 million bottles produced, of which more than 60% are exported.

Arneis and Nebbiolo are the two base grapes of the DOCG: native grapes, typical of this territory, cultivated for centuries and interpreted with great care by the Roero producers.

Connect: https://www.consorziodelroero.it/ 

About the Grandi Langhe: 

Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine events, dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Piedmont. Organized with the support of the region’s leading wine consortia, it brings together hundreds of producers representing top denominations such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Roero, Gavi, Asti, and Alta Langa. The event is designed as a key meeting point for international trade, offering tastings, professional networking, and a powerful snapshot of Piedmont’s role in the global wine market.

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/  

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

More about today’s guest:

Born and raised just outside of Philadelphia, where family meals sparked a lasting curiosity about how food and wine shape culture and connection. She earned a B.S. and M.S. focusing on Food Science. Although Becca started her career in the dairy industry, producing cheese in Utah and Wisconsin, her passion for winemaking led her to Sonoma County in 2019, where she worked as a Quality Manager in Dry Creek Valley before transitioning to J in Russian River Valley in 2021. Outside of the winery, Becca is a traveler who loves to explore new places and cultures, seeking out the best wines and cuisines from around the globe.

Connect:

Website: https://www.jwine.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwinery/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-siefring-5aa93881/ 

More about the host:

McKenna found her love of wine while serving in a Napa Valley tasting room. She later graduated from the University of Notre Dame and pursued wine on the East Coast with E. & J. Gallo Winery. She has worked in wine distribution for restaurants and luxury retail stores for the past three years.

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, McKenna is a Certified Specialist of Wine (2021), Certified Sommelier (2022), and Italian Wine Ambassador (2023). She loves country swing dancing, hosting brunch parties, and sipping Italian wine.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mckennacassidy/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-cassidy-cs-csw-66baa412b/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mckennacassidy

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Terroir, vineyards, and tradition in Montalcino – Understand the vineyard management, and appellation regulations in shaping the identity of wines from Montalcino.
• Winemaking techniques, aging, and vintages – Explore the production methods, aging practices, and vintage variation that influence the style and quality of wines at Ridolfi.
• Global market perspective and producer insights – Gain insights into the international market for Brunello di Montalcino.

More about today’s host: 

Daniel Mwangi is a sommelier and food & beverage expert from Kenya. He has served as a sommelier with Silversea / Celebrity Cruises, curating fine wine experiences for a global clientele, and has worked in the Armani, Marriott and Intercontinental hotels in Dubai.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danthesomm 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mwangi-b96b1495/

More about today’s guest:  

Ridolfi Winery is a historic estate in Montalcino, producing renowned Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino wines. The estate combines traditional winemaking techniques with sustainable viticulture, maintaining vineyards on the northeastern slopes of Montalcino at around 300 m above sea level. Ridolfi is recognized for its meticulous vineyard management, organic principles, and focus on expressing the unique terroir of the region.

Arber Shabani serves as Sales and Marketing Manager, overseeing the winery’s domestic and international commercial operations.

Connect:

Website: https://www.ridolfimontalcino.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridolfimontalcino/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 8: La Via Romea Germanica, alle origini dei vigneti d'Europa.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

The conversation focuses on extra virgin olive oil, with Nancy sharing insights into tasting techniques, production practices, cultivar diversity, and the impact of climate change and disease on olive cultivation, as well as the importance of consumer education in understanding olive oil quality. They also discuss food and wine pairing, particularly how acidity influences taste perception, and Nancy’s professional journey in wine education and her path to becoming a Master of Wine.

More about today’s guest:

Nancy Gilchrist MW is a highly respected wine educator and certified Olive Oil Sommelier. She has enjoyed a long and distinguished career, directing the Christie’s Wine Education Programme and teaching at the Leiths School of Food & Wine, where she became a recognized authority on the interaction between food and wine. Nancy has also lectured extensively across the UK on specialist regions including South Africa, Alto Adige/Südtirol, Sicily, and Champagne, serving as a UK ambassador for the latter.

Nancy has conducted field research in the world’s top olive oil regions, meeting producers and tasting hundreds of exceptional EVOOs. She now leads bespoke tasting classes and educational programs, highlighting not only the sensory pleasures of olive oil but also its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory polyphenols associated with heart health, reduced risk of certain cancers, and potential positive effects on conditions such as type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

Connect:

Website: https://www.mattersoftaste.co.uk/about/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancygilchristmw/?originalSubdomain=uk 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Italian wines in the Boston market – An overview of how Italian wines perform in Boston, including consumer preferences, the role of distributors, and which styles resonate most with local drinkers.
• Social media and wine buying behavior – How digital platforms influence consumer discovery, education, and purchasing decisions in today’s wine market.
• Women in the wine industry – Brittany shares her perspective on navigating the wine world as a woman and why representation and inclusivity matter for the future of the industry.

More about the guest: 

Brittany Tangora is a Certified Sommelier and Wine Director at Nautilus Pier 4 in the Boston Seaport district. She began building her career early, earning her Certified Sommelier credential through the Court of Master Sommeliers after completing the sommelier certification program at the International Culinary Center. She later became an ambassador through Vinitaly International Academy.

Her professional experience includes roles at The Twisted Vine, Post Wine & Spirits, and working as a wine sales representative in Manhattan. During the pandemic, she launched the digital platform Wine With Britt, where she shares educational and approachable wine content with a growing audience.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.thenautilus.com/our-story/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittanytang31/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittany.tangora.9 

More about the host:

Juliana Colangelo is the Director of Marketing at T. Edward Wines & Spirits, the NYC-based national importer and distributor. She leads the company’s marketing strategy across a growing portfolio of global wine and spirits producers, driving brand development, trade engagement, and national visibility during a period of significant expansion. 

Previously, Juliana was Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman & Sons, where she played a key leadership role in the Italian wine division, overseeing marketing strategy for shareholder brands within the Gruppo Italiano Vini and Cantine Riunite portfolios. Prior to that, she served as Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S., where she opened the firm’s first secondary headquarters in California in 2016, establishing its Bay Area office.

Over the past decade, Juliana has become one of the most dynamic and influential marketing and communications executives in the wine industry. She is widely recognized as a mentor and connector for women in beverage alcohol, leveraging her network to create opportunities and elevate others in the field. Juliana has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, and other leading publications speaking on the future of wine marketing and consumer growth.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Federico Orione of the Bersano winery in Nizza Monferrato, Piedmont.

More about today’s guest:

Founded in 1907, Bersano is a wine producer based in Piedmont, with vineyards located in the areas of Langhe and Monferrato. The winery was established by Arturo Bersano and is currently managed by the Massimelli family, with Federica Massimelli representing the latest generation involved in the company.

Bersano cultivates approximately 230 hectares of vineyards, focusing primarily on native grape varieties from the region. The estate’s vineyards are located across several sites in Langhe and Monferrato, enabling the winery to produce wines that reflect the characteristics of these territories. In addition to wine production, Bersano operates wine museums dedicated to the history of viticulture and rural culture in Piedmont.

Connect:

Website: https://www.bersano.it/it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bersanowinery/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/federico-orione-235538245/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

This conversation explores Andy’s career as a journalist, sustainability in the wine sector, including climate change and bottling, his reasons for optimism in 2026, the relationship between wine and beer and the nature of pub culture and wine's role in it.

Richard’s interview (Ep. 2547) with Jane Masters MW, the co-author of Rooted in Change is available online at: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/Episodes/ep-2547-rooted-in-change-with-jane-masters-mw-book-club-with-richard-hough/  or wherever you get your podcasts!

Further reading:

• Andy’s entry to the Jancis Robinson 2023 wine writing competition about his father, Edward Neather. https://www.jancisrobinson.com/articles/wwc23-edward-neather-andrew-neather 
• The Friends of the Earth Organic Wine Guide (2000) by Monty Walden
• The Bottle Weight Accord https://swroundtable.org/action-areas/the-bottle-weight-accord/ 
• Why I’m excited for wine in 2026 by Andy Neather, https://aviewfrommytable.substack.com/p/why-im-excited-for-wine-in-2026 
• From hard-drinking city to foodie mecca by Andy Neather, https://aviewfrommytable.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web 
• The Get Yourself a Glass podcast with Andy Neather and Victoria Moore is available wherever you get your podcasts!
• Lone Wolf, Walking the Line between Civilization and Wildness, by Adam Weymouth
• SPQR by Mary Beard

About today’s guest:

Andrew Neather is an award-winning wine and food journalist and author with more than 30 years of professional experience. His work spans journalism, public affairs, and strategic communications.

In addition to writing about wine and food, Neather has extensive experience in thought leadership, stakeholder communications, social media, and community engagement, particularly in the fields of environmental issues and transport infrastructure. He spent 11 years as Comment Editor at the London Evening Standard, where he developed significant expertise in media and public discourse.

Earlier in his career, Neather also worked as a speechwriter for the UK Prime Minister, gaining in-depth knowledge of government and public affairs. Today, he continues to contribute to wine journalism and is the co-author of Rooted in Change: The Stories Behind Sustainable Wine.

Connect: 

Substack: https://aviewfrommytable.substack.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrew_neather/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-neather-b7957b151/ 

More about the host:

Richard Hough is the editor, translator and project curator behind The Art of Wine Storytelling, Wine Democracy and Vine and Prejudice. He has also published several books about life in Verona, chronicling the city’s history, culture and daily life, not forgetting, of course, its wine, including Verona Campione, published in May 2025. With a long-standing passion for whisky and beer, he’s a relative newcomer to the world of wine and is now desperately trying to make up for lost time! He is the host of Book Club on the Italian Wine Podcast.

Connect:

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/rickhough.bsky.social 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verona_campione 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickhough/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp  

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Pieropan Winery Legacy & Innovation – Explore the history of Pieropan across four generations, Leonildo Pieropan’s innovations, and Andrea Pieropan’s vision for modernizing the winery.
• Sustainable Winery Development & Winemaking – Learn about the new winery project, sustainable vineyard management, and technical details of the wines, including Garganega grape characteristics.
• Production, Markets & Brand Strategy – Understand annual production, key markets, bottle and label choices, and the story behind La Rocca.

Note: This is Part 2 of the interview with Andrea Pieropan.

Listen to the Part 1 here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/Episodes/ep-2632-ekaterina-vislinskaya-iwa-interviews-andrea-pieropan-of-pieropan-winery-in-soave-part-1-clubhouse-ambassadors-corner/ 

More about today’s host:

Ekaterina Vislinskaya is a certified wine sommelier and content creator from Yekaterinburg, Russia, specializing in Italian wines. She holds WSET Level 3 and is an accredited Italian Wine Ambassador (IWA) through Vinitaly International Academy. Ekaterina is also a guest blogger for the Italian Wine Podcast and a passionate wine traveler, sharing insights on wine tourism, viticulture, and Italian wine culture.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vislinskaya.wine/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Pieropan is world-renowned as a pioneering producer of high-quality, terroir-driven Soave Classico in Italy's Veneto region, having elevated the Garganega grape to international acclaim. Founded in the 1880s, the family estate is famous for creating the first single-vineyard Soave ("Calvarino") in 1971 and for its commitment to sustainable, organic, and innovative underground winemaking.

Andrea Pieropan is a fourth-generation agronomist and winemaker, co-owner of the historic Pieropan winery. Having gained international experience, Andrea Pieropan oversees export and vineyard management at Pieropan Winery and also serves as a board advisor for the Italian Federation of Independent Winemakers (FIVI), promoting independent Italian viticulture. Along with his brother Dario, he took over the estate after the passing of their father, Leonildo "Nino" Pieropan, in 2018.

Connect:

Website: https://www.pieropan.it/en 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pieropanwines/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 7: Toscana, quando il territorio diventa vino.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticultural vocation come together to tell the story of Italian grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Fabrizio Fatucci is an Italian chef and culinary consultant from Rome with over 30 years of international experience in the restaurant industry. Trained at the Culinary Institute IPSEOASC Giancarlo De Carolis in Spoleto, he has worked across Italy, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Kazakhstan, specializing in opening restaurants and developing high-end culinary concepts.

Throughout his career, Fabrizio has served as executive and brand chef for leading restaurant groups in Saint Petersburg and Sochi, collaborated with the Probka Group, and contributed to the founding of the Italian culinary school Academia del Gusto in Moscow. He also taught as a master chef at Gambero Rosso Città del Gusto in Rome.

After completing his latest restaurant project at Giardino in Almaty, he now focuses on his consulting company, Fatucci Consulting, supporting new hospitality projects while expanding his work across Central Asia.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fabriziofatucci/?hl=en 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabrizio-fatucci-41576a362/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Fatucci-Consulting-100067161470750/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Digital marketing requires discipline and consistency — building visibility means showing up regularly and communicating with purpose.
• Effective storytelling is selective — strong brand narratives focus on meaningful stories rather than trying to share everything.
• Brand clarity begins with listening — understanding consumers and the market helps businesses refine their message and focus their strategy.

More about the guest:

Georgia Panagopoulou is an international wine communicator and digital strategist and the founder of wine.gini, established in 2017. Through her agency, she works with wineries and wine institutions worldwide on digital strategy, content creation, and brand storytelling. Her work has been featured in international media including Wine Enthusiast, The Sunday Times, VinePair, and The Drinks Business. She has collaborated with partners in more than 25 countries and has visited over 45 wine regions globally.

Georgia has received several international recognitions, including World’s Best Social Media Marketer at the Women in Wine & Spirits Awards and World’s Best Wine Travel Creator at the VinoInfluencers World Awards. She holds an MSc in Chemical Engineering, an MSc in Wine Management from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, and is an alumna of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 4 Diploma. 

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wine.gini/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gpanagopoulou/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/winegini

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

The conversation also covers the Indian wine consumer profile and preferences, strategies for digital marketing targeting Indian audiences, and educational initiatives for wine professionals in the country.

Key learning objectives:

• Understand the structural and regulatory complexity of the Indian wine market.
• Identify who the Indian wine consumer really is and what drives them.
• Learn how Italian wineries can adapt their communication, storytelling, and digital strategy to resonate with Indian audiences.

Bonus - Mohona Chowdhury’s favorite wine spots:

• Delhi: Captain’s Cellar at Taj Hotel, Perch Wine Bar
• Bangalore: Wine in Progress

Influencers mentioned by Mohona:

• Sonal Holland MW @sonalholland_masterofwine
• Ankush @sipwithkush
• Devati Mallick @devatimallick

The advertisement mentioned: https://youtu.be/RId_UXL3rI8?si=vUXFFKkMp9JuZ0Xs 

More about today’s guest:

Mohona Chowdhury is a wine consultant, educator, and writer based in France. Born and raised in India, her journey took her from luxury hospitality with the Oberoi Group to completing a Master’s in Wine and Hospitality Management with KEDGE Business School and École Hôtellerie de Lausanne. She has worked as a sommelier inMichelin-starred restaurants in Paris and hosted tastings in Burgundy, while also writing for Indian and UK wine publications. Mohona is especially passionate about making wine education more inclusive and helping European producers better understand the evolving Indian market through storytelling, digital communication, and cultural insight.

Connect:

Website: https://www.thewinediangirl.com  

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohona-chowdhury-61684b18a 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_winedian_girl/ 

More about the host:

Roza Zharmukhambetova has a background in foreign languages and education. She discovered her passion for wine in Beijing, where she gained two years of experience in wine sales. Since returning to Kazakhstan, she has focused on studying Italian wine and exploring its regions. Roza holds certifications as an Italian Wine Ambassador (VIA), Italian Wine Scholar (WSG), Langhe Wines Ambassador (BBA), and Valpolicella Wine Specialist (VEP). She is also a member of the Kazakhstan Sommelier Association. Since the end of 2024, she has been a member of the Italian Wine Podcast (IWP) team, contributing her passion for Italian wine.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/le_vin_en_rose/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozazharmukhambetova/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

In this episode, we explore wine as the “helper of the hero”, from James Bond to Odysseus, and how storytelling and metaphor make wine more accessible. By using hero metaphors, producers, buyers, and communicators can help people understand wine more easily, making it both engaging and memorable while potentially boosting sales.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass.

About Ryan Robinson:

Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting Team, representing the United States and the World Wine Tasting Championships and holds the credentials of Advanced Sommelier-CMS; WSET Diploma and WSET Educator in Wine, Sake and Beer; Rioja Wine Educator; VIA Italian Wine Ambassador; Wine Scholar Guild Educator and Italian and Spanish Wine Specialist; and Certified Scotch Whisky.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommryan/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sommryan/ 

The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza is available now at: https://mammajumboshrimp.com/products/the-art-of-wine-storytelling 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Pieropan Winery Legacy & Innovation – Explore the history of Pieropan across four generations, Leonildo Pieropan’s innovations, and Andrea Pieropan’s vision for modernizing the winery.
• Sustainable Winery Development & Winemaking – Learn about the new winery project, sustainable vineyard management and technical details of the wines.
• Production, Markets & Brand Strategy – Understand annual production, key markets, bottle and label choices, and the story behind La Rocca.

More about today’s host:

Ekaterina Vislinskaya is a certified wine sommelier and content creator from Yekaterinburg, Russia, specializing in Italian wines. She holds WSET Level 3 and is an accredited Italian Wine Ambassador (IWA) through Vinitaly International Academy. Ekaterina is also a guest blogger for the Italian Wine Podcast and a passionate wine traveler, sharing insights on wine tourism, viticulture, and Italian wine culture.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vislinskaya.wine/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Pieropan is world-renowned as a pioneering producer of high-quality, terroir-driven Soave Classico in Italy's Veneto region, having elevated the Garganega grape to international acclaim. Founded in the 1880s, the family estate is famous for creating the first single-vineyard Soave ("Calvarino") in 1971 and for its commitment to sustainable, organic, and innovative underground winemaking.

Andrea Pieropan is a fourth-generation agronomist and winemaker, co-owner of the historic Pieropan winery. Having gained international experience, Andrea Pieropan oversees export and vineyard management at Pieropan Winery and also serves as a board advisor for the Italian Federation of Independent Winemakers (FIVI), promoting independent Italian viticulture. Along with his brother Dario, he took over the estate after the passing of their father, Leonildo "Nino" Pieropan, in 2018.

Connect:

Website: https://www.pieropan.it/en 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pieropanwines/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 6: La Vigna Ritrovata di Leonardo

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticultural vocation come together to tell the story of Italian grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

They dive into Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco, exploring the region’s history, the evolution from bottle to tank fermentation, and the revival of traditional col fondo wines. The conversation also covers the concept of Rive and Metodo Classico Glera, Bellenda’s flagship wines and their international grape experiments, local gastronomy and pairings.

More about today’s guest:

Umberto Cosmo is an Italian winemaker and entrepreneur, and co-founder of Bellenda Winery in Carpesica near Vittorio Veneto, in the heart of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG area. Founded in 1986 with his brother Luigi, Bellenda is a family-run winery known for producing terroir-driven sparkling wines, including traditional bottle-fermented (col fondo) and Charmat-style Prosecco.

Born in 1961 in the Prosecco hills of Veneto, Cosmo grew up surrounded by vineyards and a strong family tradition of agriculture. Beyond his work at Bellenda, he has played an active role in regional wine development, co-founding the Colli di Conegliano DOCG Consortium and serving as its president for nine years, as well as vice president of UVIVE (Unione dei Vini Veneti), promoting Veneto wines internationally.

Connect:

Website: https://www.bellenda.it/en/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellenda1986/ 

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/umbertocosmo 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/umberto.cosmo 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Why structured wine education matters beyond tasting skills and restaurant service.
• The real impact of professional wine certifications for today’s sommeliers.
• How specialized Italian wine education can open new opportunities in the wine trade and hospitality sector.

More about the guest:

Jack Liggett serves as the Head Sommelier and Wine Program Lead at 53, a contemporary Asian restaurant in NYC. His connection to wine began at an early age through family tradition, picking grapes from his grandfather’s small backyard vineyard in Groton Massachusetts. Jack’s interest in wine rekindled during his travels to Rome, Italy, where he took a class about Italian wine and culture. Upon returning back to the U.S., Jack continued to explore and held an array of roles at wineries such as a tasting room associate, vineyard worker, and harvest intern, learning the ropes for winemaking. 

Jack joined 53 as part of the restaurant’s opening team in 2022 as a wine runner, supporting the sommelier's day-to-day service. After six months, Jack was promoted to sommelier and now, three and a half years later, leads the wine program. For Jack, the attraction of wine lies in its dynamic nature. At 53, he strives to explore new wines, engage in unexpected conversations with guests, and continue to learn and teach. Jack has also been awarded his DipWSET certificate and IWE through Vinitaly International Academy.

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jack__liggett/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-liggett-dipwset-iwe-9525b9147/ 

More about the host:

Juliana Colangelo is the Director of Marketing at T. Edward Wines & Spirits, the NYC-based national importer and distributor. She leads the company’s marketing strategy across a growing portfolio of global wine and spirits producers, driving brand development, trade engagement, and national visibility during a period of significant expansion. 

Previously, Juliana was Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman & Sons, where she played a key leadership role in the Italian wine division, overseeing marketing strategy for shareholder brands within the Gruppo Italiano Vini and Cantine Riunite portfolios. Prior to that, she served as Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S., where she opened the firm’s first secondary headquarters in California in 2016, establishing its Bay Area office. Over the past decade, Juliana has become one of the most dynamic and influential marketing and communications executives in the wine industry. She is widely recognized as a mentor and connector for women in beverage alcohol, leveraging her network to create opportunities and elevate others in the field. Juliana has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, and other leading publications speaking on the future of wine marketing and consumer growth.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Felix Alojz Jermann.

More about today’s guest:

Alojz Felix Jermann is a wine expert, digital consultant, and sixth-generation member of the renowned Friulian winery Jermann. After leaving the family business in 2020, he distinguished himself as a winery broker, investor advisor, and one of Italy's leading digital wine communicators, working to make the sector more accessible, sustainable, and youth-oriented.

Connect:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alojz-felix-jermann 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alojzfelixjermann/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

More about the guest:

Terah Bajjalieh is a California-born winemaker and founder of Terah Wine Co., crafting distinctive wines through organic, biodynamic, and regenerative vineyard partnerships. She champions Mediterranean varieties suited to California’s warming climate, using native fermentations and minimal intervention to create wines that are fresh, lively, and expressive.

With 14 harvests across France, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and California, Terah holds a Master’s in Enology & Viticulture from SupAgro Montpellier, a BS in Finance, and WSET Level 3 certification. She launched Terah Wine Co. in 2020 to elevate underrepresented varieties and voices. Her wines have been praised by the New York Times, and she was named to Wine Enthusiast’s Future 40 Tastemakers 2024, bringing a unique perspective as a female, LGBTQ+, Arab American winemaker.

Connect:

Website: https://www.terahwineco.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terahwinecompany/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terahbajjalieh/ 

More about our host: 

VIA certified Italian Wine Ambassador and sommelier with FIS, Cynthia Chaplin is a professor of Italian Wine and Culture, with 20 years experience in the wine industry. Cynthia is a certified wine educator, author, international judge, and content creator. She designs and presents events for embassies, corporate and private clients, develops Italian wine collections for restaurants and private clients and works with Italian wineries to train their sales and export staff.

Hosting Voices has increased her commitment to DEI in the wine sector, interviewing emerging and established wine professionals and discussing topics such as inclusivity, equity, language, sustainability and challenges facing under-represented groups and cultures as they move into careers in wine. As a certified WSET Educator, Cynthia is passionate about developing wine education for a future that will have a place at the table for anyone interested in wine.

Connect:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Italian-Wines-in-English/100036868372598/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiss_my_glassx/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understanding the Bava Winery Identity. Explore the family’s journey, heritage, and what distinguishes their winery within the Piedmont wine landscape.
• Viticulture, Winemaking & Innovation. Learn about their approach to vineyard management, winemaking philosophy, and the technologies and innovations shaping their wines.
• Market Vision & Future Direction. Understand how the winery responds to evolving consumer trends and what their long-term vision is for the future.

More about today’s host:

Daniel Mwangi is a sommelier and food & beverage expert from Kenya. He has served as a sommelier with Silversea / Celebrity Cruises, curating fine wine experiences for a global clientele, and has worked in the Armani, Marriott and Intercontinental hotels in Dubai.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danthesomm 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mwangi-b96b1495/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Bava Winery is a historic family estate located in the hills of Monferrato, with vineyards also extending into Langhe. Founded in 1911, the winery is known for producing classic Piedmont wines such as Barbera d'Asti, Barolo, and Moscato d'Asti. The Bava family has played an important role in the development of the Alta Langa DOCG and is recognized for innovation in the region, including early use of barriques and the revival of indigenous grape varieties.

Roberto Bava, co-owner and Export & Marketing Director, represents the fourth generation of the family. Known for his creative approach to hospitality and communication, he has organized international “Bava Concept Dinners,” collaborating with chefs, artists, and performers across five continents. Since 1982, Roberto has also served as Managing Director of Giulio Cocchi, where he helped revive historic products such as Barolo Chinato and played a key role in restoring the designation Vermouth di Torino. He is a former president of the Consorzio del Vermouth di Torino.

Roberto Cardinale is Asia, Pacific and Africa Manager at Bava Winery. With over 20 years of experience in international wine markets, he works closely with partners across multiple regions to promote the wines of the estate. Based in Tuscany, he speaks several languages and combines his passion for wine with a strong commitment to family life and cultural exchange.

Connect:

Website: https://www.bava.com/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/castellodimontepo/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 5: Moscato, Barolo e l’alba della modernità.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

They discuss how the restaurant adapts traditional recipes, the importance of sourcing exceptional local ingredients such as Prosciutto di San Daniele and regional cheeses, and how their signature dishes are paired with local wines.

More about today’s guests:

Emanuele Scarello and Michela Scarello are the fifth-generation siblings leading Agli Amici, a historic restaurant founded in 1887 and awarded two Michelin stars. 

Born in 1970, Emanuele developed his passion for cooking through the influence of his mother Ivonne. After training at hospitality school and gaining experience in Italy and abroad, he joined the family restaurant’s kitchen in 1998. His cuisine combines innovation with tradition, emphasizing outstanding local ingredients and the culinary heritage of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. 

Michela has been managing the hospitality, service and cellar of Agli Amici with dedication and passion for almost twenty years. She is an excellent sommelier, she takes care of rediscovering forgotten vines, enhancing even small producers without losing sight of the excellent labels.

Today, the Agli Amici group also operates locations in Venice and Rovinj at the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, continuing the family’s legacy of refined hospitality and contemporary regional cuisine.

Connect:

Website: https://www.agliamici.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agliamici1887/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Individual Preference vs. Wine Culture. Why wine preference is highly individual and how this reality often clashes with the way the U.S. wine market promotes wine.
• The Power of Perceptual Segmentation. How segmenting consumers by shared perceptual traits, alongside demographics, can fundamentally change how the wine industry understands and reaches drinkers.
• Rethinking Wine Education. How traditional wine education and sensory evaluation frameworks may unintentionally suppress demand instead of growing it.

More about the guest:

Tim Hanni MW is a wine industry consultant, lecturer, and researcher with more than 50 years of experience in food and wine. A professionally trained chef, he was one of the first two resident Americans to pass the Master of Wine examination and earn the prestigious title.

Tim is President of Calyber LLC and HanniCo LLC, where he researches and quantifies the factors that influence personal wine preferences. Widely recognized as an internationally renowned “flavor maven,” he brings a distinctive perspective to the study of taste, consumer behavior, and wine enjoyment.

In addition to his consulting work, Tim is involved in wine business education, providing courses for individuals, organizations, and universities. He also serves as Wine Industry Faculty at Sonoma State University. He is the author of the book Why You Like the Wines You Like, which explores the science and psychology behind personal taste preferences.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.timhanni.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timhannimw/ 

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

As an official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, Piedmont's premier wine event that took place on January 26-27, in Turin. Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today’s guest: Sergio Germano, President of the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani

More about the Consorzio:

The Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani is the official producers’ association that protects, regulates and promotes some of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions and their wines including Barolo, Barbaresco, Dogliani and other Langhe appellations. Founded in 1934, the Consorzio oversees production standards, defends collective wine trademarks, monitors markets for authenticity, and works to raise awareness of these wines and their terroirs around the world. It represents hundreds of growers and wineries dedicated to quality hillside viticulture and the heritage of Piedmont’s Langhe wine landscape. 

Connect: https://www.langhevini.it/en/ 

About the Grandi Langhe: 

Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine events, dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Piedmont. Organized with the support of the region’s leading wine consortia, it brings together hundreds of producers representing top denominations such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Roero, Gavi, Asti, and Alta Langa. The event is designed as a key meeting point for international trade, offering tastings, professional networking, and a powerful snapshot of Piedmont’s role in the global wine market.

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/  

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Key Takeaways:

• Why a family-run wine importer took a stand when others didn’t.
Victor and Chloe (and by extension V.O.S.) didn’t just join a lawsuit, they became the public face of a challenge that other businesses were hesitant to touch.
• How tariffs disrupt small business operations.
The story isn’t abstract, it’s about cash flow, relationships with producers abroad, and survival tactics.
• Unanswered questions and strategic positioning.
The larger story is about anticipation, uncertainty, and how a business positions itself after a major but incomplete legal outcome.

More about the guest: 

Chloe Syrah Schwartz is the Vice President at V.O.S. Selections, a wine & spirits importer founded by her father, Victor, in 1987. Chloe and Victor were the lead plaintiffs in V.O.S. Selections v Trump, which successfully overturned the "Liberation Day" tariffs at the US Supreme Court.

Connect: 

Website: https://vosselections.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vosselections/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-syrah-schwartz/ 

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand the legacy of the Biondi Santi family and the evolution from Montalcino to Maremma.
• Learn about the unique Sangiovese Grosso clone and the differences in growing Sangiovese between Montalcino and Maremma.
• Gain insight into Castello di Montepò’s wines, terroir, and approach to climate challenges.

More about today’s host: 

Lisa Lazzaretto, PhD, is a Swiss-based entrepreneur, wine professional, and marketing strategist. She holds a doctorate in Political Science and a Diploma in Marketing, and is the founder of Wine Mood, an e-commerce platform dedicated to curated Italian wines. An Italian Wine Ambassador and WSET Diploma holder (DipWSET), Lisa bridges academic insight with hands-on industry expertise. Her recent research focuses on neuromarketing, consumer behavior, and modern wine communication. Active across international wine fairs and competitions, she combines research, storytelling, and business innovation to connect people with Italian wine.

Connect:

Website: https://www.winemood.ch/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-lazzaretto/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winemood_ch/ 

More about today’s guest:  

The Castello di Montepò winery is located in the heart of the Maremma Toscana region, in the province of Grosseto, north of the municipality of Scansano. It is situated in a hilly area (between 300 and 460 meters above sea level) and is famous for producing the high-quality Super Tuscan wine Sassoalloro (100% Sangiovese Grosso BBS11). Castello di Montepò represents the current chapter of the Biondi Santi family’s winemaking history.

Tancredi Biondi Santi, son of Jacopo Biondi Santi, is fully involved in the estate and serves as co-winemaker alongside his father, contributing to vineyard management, cellar work, and the long-term qualitative direction of the wines. He lives between Castello di Montepò and New York City, where he is also active in the international market development and global positioning of the family estate.

Connect:

Website: https://castellodimontepo.it/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/castellodimontepo/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 4: Vie della fede, vie del vino.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Founded in the 1970s, Castellare di Castellina was created with the goal of producing high-quality, terroir-driven Chianti Classico rooted in Tuscan tradition. The estate spans about 80 hectares, with 33 hectares of vineyards farmed according to organic principles at around 370 meters above sea level. Known for low yields, careful clone selection, and a strong commitment to biodiversity, symbolized by the rare birds featured on each label, the winery focuses on expressing pure Sangiovese and the distinctive soils of Chianti Classico.

Alessandro Cellai is the head winemaker, general manager and  managing director of Castellare di Castellina. He studied oenology at the Istituto Tecnico of Siena and chemistry at the University of Florence. Considered one of the most authoritative voices in the world wine scene, he is known for his philosophy based on technique, passion and innovation.

Connect:

Website: https://www.castellare.it/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/castellarewine/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/domini-castellare-di-castellina/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Why smaller Northeast markets offer strong growth potential.
• How to adapt portfolio, pricing, and positioning for regional markets.
• What to understand about distribution, depletion, and velocity outside major metro areas.

More about the guest: 

Kevin Di Lucente is an experienced leader in wine sales and brand development, with over 16 years of experience growing premium portfolios. He is an ambassador for the Vinitaly International Academy and a specialist in Italian wines. Kevin has focused much of his career on expanding distribution for family-owned producers in smaller communities across New York State. Outside of wine, Kevin is a musician, improv comedian, and proud cat dad.

Connect: 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-di-lucente-a830712a/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdilucente/ 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5PVU6Atuoj0pwejKUlFYjt 

More about the host:

Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. 

During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022, Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guests are Sabrina Tedeschi and Luca Nicolis from Antica Bottega del Vino.

More about today’s guest:

Antica Bottega del Vino is one of the oldest and most historical osteria in Verona. Founded in 1890 it is one of the most renowned restaurants in Verona, especially for its legendary wine list. With more than 1500 labels and 40.000 bottles it offers something for every taste and budget..

Connect:

Website: https://bottegavini.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bottegavini_veronacortina/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speaker: Robert Joseph

With traditional critics losing ground to influencers and peer reviews, Joseph examines what this shift means for brand visibility and consumer trust in today's fragmented media landscape.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• History of Marchesi Alfieri and their ties to Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour.
• Location, terroir, and wines made at the estate.
• An overview of their new project presented at Grandi Langhe.

More about today’s host: 

Mauricio de Chiaro, Italian Wine Ambassador based in Brazil and Piemonte, has visited more than 150 wineries across Italy and actively promotes Italian wines to Brazilian audiences worldwide, with a strong focus on lesser-known native grape varieties. With a 30+ year career in finance, he brings solid business expertise to the Italian wine industry.

Mauricio is the founder of The Wine Partners, a buyers’ club connecting small, family-owned producers with engaged, hands-on wine lovers. The platform allows members to buy directly from producers and participate in unique winemaking experiences. The Wine Partners has chapters in Miami, Orlando, New York, Lisbon, and São Paulo.

Connect:

Website: http://www.thewinepartners.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauriciodechiaro/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.wine.partners/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Marchesi Alfieri is one of the historic wine estates of Piedmont, deeply tied to the region’s culture, history, and influential families. The winery’s roots date back centuries and are linked to the legacy of Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, an important figure in Italian unification. Located in the heart of the Terre Alfieri DOCG, Marchesi Alfieri produces a range of terroir-driven wines that express the diversity and elegance of this distinguished wine region.

Christian Carlevero is a winemaker who has been with the historic Marchesi Alfieri winery in Piedmont since 2007. Working alongside Mario Olivero, he is a talented young oenologist involved in producing the estate's high-quality wines and, as of late 2025/early 2026, leading new projects like their Timorasso Derthona. 

Connect:

Website: https://www.marchesialfieri.it/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marchesialfieri/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-carlevero-8344a223 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 3: Quando l’Italia imparò a fare il vino.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Salvo Lo Castro is a renowned Sicilian chef, best known for having cooked at the Vatican for Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI for ten years (2000–2010). After gaining international experience, including work in Romania and in luxury hospitality, he moved to the United States and launched CasaSalvo in SoHo, New York, in July 2025, bringing authentic Mediterranean cuisine to an international audience. With over 28 years of experience across 5-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and high-end catering, Salvo now leads the CASASALVO NYC project with passion and a strong commitment to excellence.

Connect:

Website: https://www.casasalvonyc.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realchefsalvolocastro/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Designing regional marketing programs that genuinely resonate with U.S. trade professionals and consumers.
• Most effective channels and activities for promoting Italian wines in the U.S. market.
• Common mistakes to avoid when allocating OCM budgets and how to make the most of subsidized resources.

More about the guest: 

Luca Venturelli is an Account Director at Colangelo & Partners in New York, where he leads the Italian Division and oversees integrated marketing and PR programs for some of Italy’s most prominent wine regions and brands. He specializes in U.S. market strategy, OCM-funded initiatives, trade and media engagement, and large-scale consumer events. Luca has worked closely with consortia including Prosecco DOC, Chianti Classico, Barolo and Barbaresco, Brunello di Montalcino, Alto Adige, and Sicilia DOC, supporting their efforts to strengthen awareness and market share in the United States. His work focuses on aligning institutional objectives with clear execution plans, measurable outcomes, and long-term brand development in the U.S. market.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.colangelopr.com/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luca-venturelli-62b795354/ 

More about the host:

Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. 

During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022, Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

As an official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, Piedmont's premier wine event that took place on January 26-27, in Turin. Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today’s guest: Francesco Monchiero, President of Piemonte Land of Wine

More about Piemonte Land of Wine:

Piemonte Land of Wine was founded on July 29, 2011, with the aim of providing Piedmontese wine protection consortia with a meeting point where they could exchange ideas, identify shared operations, and develop common strategies to promote Piedmont wine in Italy and around the world. Today, Piemonte Land represents all 14 wine consortia officially recognized by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture. It promotes more than 44,000 hectares of vineyards across Piedmont, stretching from the provinces of Alessandria, Asti, and Cuneo all the way to the foothills of the Alps. This is an extraordinary oenological heritage, made up for 80% of the region’s 18 DOCG and 41 DOC appellations.

As the first Italian initiative to share promotional policies among consortia, Piemonte Land continues its tireless work not only in support of wine, but also in promoting agri-food excellence and the beauty of one of the world’s most important wine regions—whose landscapes were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

Connect: https://www.piemonteland.it/ 

About the Grandi Langhe: 

Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine events, dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Piedmont. Organized with the support of the region’s leading wine consortia, it brings together hundreds of producers representing top denominations such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Roero, Gavi, Asti, and Alta Langa. The event is designed as a key meeting point for international trade, offering tastings, professional networking, and a powerful snapshot of Piedmont’s role in the global wine market.

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/  

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PLEASE NOTE: THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED ON 6 OCTOBER 2025

Speaker: Felicity Carter

Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT are democratizing access to sophisticated data analysis and marketing capabilities. Felicity Carter explores how wineries, large and small, can harness AI's potential while avoiding the pitfalls of generic and unoriginal content.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

The places mentioned in the conversation:

• Pubs: Swan with Two Necks in Pendleton and the New Inn in Clitheroe.
• The craft beer brewery: Bowness Bay Brewing in Kendal.
• The natural wineries: Rita & Rudolf Trossen and Staffelter Hof in Mosel and Katla Wines in Rheinhessen. 

WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is a global, non-profit program that connects volunteers ("WWOOFers") with organic farmers for educational and cultural exchange. You can learn more here: https://wwoof.net/.

Other writing referred to in the conversation include:

• Close to the Tree — Pochle, Edinburgh’s Communal Apple Spirit by Imran Rahman-Jones  
• These Wooden Ideas — The Incomparable Theakstons’ Old Peculier by Katie Mather   
• Exploring South Tyrol’s indulgent winter food scene by Katie Mather  
• Con Altura — Making Wine and Preserving Culture in Tenerife’s Vineyard Heartland by Katie Mather    
• The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
• The Meaning of Beer by Jonny Garrett

The Book Review by Richard Hough:

“Crisp, refreshing and extremely satisfying, Pellicle is an independent magazine dedicated to in-depth beer, wine, cider, food and travel journalism. Founded in 2019, it explores the stories behind what’s in your glass and explores the vital role of Britain’s vibrant pub culture in contemporary society, featuring original artwork and the very best in contemporary storytelling.” 

About today’s guest: 

Katie Mather is a Lancashire-based drinks culture and food writer, and Deputy Editor and Wine Lead at the independent drinks publication Pellicle. She has been writing about beer, wine, cider, non-alcoholic drinks, and food since 2018, quickly earning recognition with a Silver award for Young Beer Writer of the Year from the Guild of Beer Writers.

Katie also writes the newsletter The Gulp, which won Silver for Best Short-Form Beer Writing at the 2024 British Guild of Beer Writers Awards. In 2025, she expanded into luxury adventure travel writing for The Independent, and released her self-designed zine A Place To Be, published by Pellicle.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.katiematherwrites.com/ https://www.pelliclemag.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiematherkm/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylorkatie 

More about the host:

Richard Hough is the editor, translator and project curator behind The Art of Wine Storytelling, Wine Democracy and Vine and Prejudice. He has also published several books about life in Verona, chronicling the city’s history, culture and daily life, not forgetting, of course, its wine, including Verona Campione, published in May 2025. With a long-standing passion for whisky and beer, he’s a relative newcomer to the world of wine and is now desperately trying to make up for lost time! He is the host of Book Club on the Italian Wine Podcast.

Connect:

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/rickhough.bsky.social 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verona_campione 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickhough/

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand the challenges for growing wine grapes in the Carso area.
• Recognise the region’s  main grape varieties and styles of wine.
• Appreciate the cultural traditions of the region.

More about today’s host: 

As well as being a certified Italian Wine Expert (IWE), Stephanie Johnson holds a WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits. Her wine career spans the journalism, retail and restaurant sectors. She joined Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2013 and later served as Italian Wine Editor from 2016 to 2024. Stephanie has judged at international competitions such as the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon in Bordeaux and 5StarWines – the Book in Verona. She has led masterclasses for top sommeliers in New York City and presented at major industry events including Vinitaly and wine2wine Business Forum in Verona. A passionate educator, she teaches WSET Level 2, Level 3, and Diploma courses at NYC’s International Wine Center. Her upcoming venture, SteepleJack, will spotlight the heroic stories of Italian wine producers, blending deep expertise with compelling storytelling.

Connect:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-johnson-dws-b0a0121a/ 

More about today’s guest:  

The Skerlj winery (Azienda Agricola Skerlj) is a family-run estate located in the Carso region, specifically in the small village of Sales (Salež) near Trieste, Italy. The winery is known for producing traditional wines like Vitovska, Malvasia, and Terrano in stone-dug cellars within the Carso plateau. The family specializes in natural winemaking with minimal intervention, including aging in wood barrels. Matej Skerlj is recognised as one of the youngest, most skilled producers in the area, focusing on a traditional, hand-worked and unfiltered winemaking technique. He works alongside his sister, Kristina Skerlj, and their parents to manage the vineyards and the agriturismo.

Connect:

Website: https://www.skerlj.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skerljwineestate/ 

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Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Episode 2: Dalla Rivoluzione dei Vitigni alle Vie dei Pellegrini.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

Their discussion explores the history and geography of Orvieto, the region’s unique tufo soils and underground caves, and the estate’s signature wines - going beyond the white wines Orvieto is best known for. Listeners will also discover Decugnano dei Barbi’s distinctive Muffa Nobile wine and learn how to distinguish noble rot from grey rot.

More about today’s guest:

Enzo was introduced to wine and winemaking by his father, Claudio, who founded Decugnano dei Barbi in 1973 in Orvieto, Umbria. Raised in Lombardy, Enzo spent his summers at the winery, helping in the cellar and with the harvest. His education took him to Milan, where he studied business administration. After graduation, he worked in international corporate finance. During that time, Enzo had the opportunity to live in five different countries, allowing him to meet diverse people and experience their cultures. In 2008 he left the world of corporate finance to learn the aspects of the wine business from his father. Today, Enzo resides at the vineyard and manages the winery. His goal is to produce high-quality, terroir-driven wines that best express the unique sandy-clay marine soil of Decugnano dei Barbi.

Connect:

Website: https://www.decugnanodeibarbi.com/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enzobarbi/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decugnanodeibarbi/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

The conversation also touches on the so-called “Swiftie Effect,” wine labelling, and how Gen Z and millennials are changing the way wine is perceived and consumed.

Key Takeaways:

• Strategic opportunities that still exist despite market challenges and the current slowdown.
• A clearer understanding of today’s US distribution landscape.
• How to gain competitive advantages in a slow market environment.

More about the guest: 

Peter Yeung is a leading wine business consultant and was named one of Wine Business Monthly’s 2020 Wine Leaders. Together with Robert Vernick, he co-hosts the wine business podcast XChateau. He is also the co-author (with Liz Thach MW) of the award-winning book Luxury Wine Marketing.

Previously, Peter served as Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at Kosta Browne Winery and Realm Cellars in California, where he developed and executed strategic marketing plans. He passed Stage 2 Theory of the Master of Wine exam and holds the WSET Diploma as well as the Certified Wine Professional designation from the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Before entering the wine industry, Peter worked as an executive in Silicon Valley and as a consultant at McKinsey & Company.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.xchateau.com 

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/winebizguy/  

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterkyeung/  

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Robert Camuto.

More about today’s guest:

Robert Camuto is an award-winning American author and journalist, who has lived in Europe with his family for more than 20 years. A contributing editor for the Wine Spectator since 2008, Camuto writes a twice monthly column, Robert Camuto Meets… for winespectator.com. 

A native New Yorker and graduate of Columbia School of Journalism, Camuto has had an incredibly varied journalistic career – from writing about New Wave music in the San Francisco area to covering Texas politics. In the 1990s he founded Fort Worth’s (still publishing) alternative newspaper FW Weekly (sold in 2000).

As an American in Europe, he has contributed to publications including Food & Wine, the Washington Post – Travel, Cucina Italiana, and Michelin Green Guides. Over the course of his career he has become an accomplished profiler of people—from the poet Charles Bukowski to the likes of Sting, John Malkovich, and the many fascinating characters he has met along the wine roads of Europe. He has been a home winemaker. And he speaks frequently about wine personalities, Italy, France, and storytelling. He is based in Verona, Italy.

Connect:

Website: https://robertcamuto.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertcamuto_writes/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

PLEASE NOTE: THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED ON 6 OCTOBER 2025

Speaker: Benjamin Aneff, Moderator: Marzia Varvaglione

The U.S. currently imposes a 15% tariff on all products from the EU, including Italian wine, with no immediate relief in sight. This tariff deeply affects the U.S. distribution system, where EU wines account for 75% of revenue and contribute $24 billion annually, supporting 200,000 American jobs and 47,500 wine stores. In this 30-minute session, Ben Aneff will explain how these trade dynamics impact Italian producers and their U.S. partners, and why Italian wine has a particularly strong case for tariff exclusion given its origin specificity and non-substitutability. Attendees will learn how to strengthen collaborations with U.S. importers, leverage advocacy messages in Washington, and emphasize their unique producer stories to sustain competitiveness and consumer loyalty despite trade barriers.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Episode 1: Costruire le Fondamenta

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine. 

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand the Valtellina wine region, with a focus on its unique microclimate and alpine topography.
• Learn how Nebbiolo adapts and expresses itself in a high-altitude, mountain environment.
• Recognise the impact of climate change on Valtellina’s vineyards and how local cuisine and traditional food pairings complement the region’s wines.

More about today’s host:  

Anna Obukhovskaya has over 15 years of experience in wine retail, marketing and sales. She has worked in several large companies and independent projects, and founded the Italian Wine Tasting Club in Saint Petersburg in Russia. In 2023 she became a certified Italian Wine Ambassador. Driven by passion for European wines she moved from Saint Petersburg to Slovenia. She currently leads export development and sales strategies at Nautilus Trade, the company she founded, specializing in expanding market opportunities for wineries and food producers.

Connect:

Website: https://nautilus-trade.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wine_it_anna/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-obukhovskaia-0a4789261 

More about today’s guest:  

ARPEPE winery is located in Sondrio, in the heart of the Valtellina valley in Lombardy, Northern Italy. It operates in the Grumello subzone, producing wines from vineyards across the Sassella, Grumello, and Inferno appellations. The estate is known for its high-altitude, terraced Nebbiolo (Chiavennasca) vineyards. The winery is famous for its "heroic viticulture" on steep, terraced, stone-walled vineyards. Isabella Pelizzatti Perego is the 5th generation winemaker for her family’s estate in Valtellina. The Pelizzatti family has been growing Nebbiolo vines on the steep slopes of the Northern Italian Alps since 1860. In 1984, her father, Arturo Pelizzatti Perego (Ar.Pe.Pe.) rebranded and refocused the winery to cultivate Nebbiolo expressive of their unique terroir with meticulous attention to tradition and quality. Today Isabella, along with her brothers Emanuele and Guido, continue the family’s pursuit of pure, honest Nebbiolo wines rooted in minerality and finesse rather than structure or concentration.

Connect:

Website: https://www.arpepe.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arpepe1860/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

More about today’s guest:

Jamie Goode is a London-based wine writer, author, lecturer, and judge with a PhD in plant biology. He is the founder of wineanorak.com, one of the world’s most respected wine websites, and spent nearly two decades as a wine columnist for the Sunday Express. Jamie is the author of several influential books on wine science and tasting, a regular contributor to leading international wine publications, and a co-chair judge at the International Wine Challenge. He is also the host of WineMasters, a critically acclaimed cinematic documentary series that explores the world’s great wine regions, traditions, terroirs and winemaking families through immersive storytelling and behind-the-scenes features.

Connect:

Website:

https://www.wineanorak.com

https://www.winemasters.tv/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjamiegoode/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiegoode/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• How e-commerce, especially in the US market, helps wine brands expand their reach and access new consumers.
• The main e-commerce models in the wine industry and how they work.
• How to use storytelling at scale to turn consumer interest into emotional connection and loyalty.

More about the guest: 

Emily Carlson is a Wine Buyer and Sommelier based in Healdsburg, California, currently splitting her time between Barndiva, a Michelin-recommended restaurant, and Last Bottle, Inc., a collection of curated online wine shops. By working in both buying and selling wine on and off premise, Emily offers a unique perspective on the preferences and needs of modern wine consumers. With certifications from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, she is committed to fostering a more diverse community of wine drinkers through networking events for women in the wine business and teaching entry level wine classes to budding professionals and enthusiasts.

Connect: 

Website: https://lastbubbles.com/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/last_bubbles/ 

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

You can read Robert’s recent articles at: https://robertejoseph.substack.com/ 

More about today’s guest:

Until June 2025, Robert Joseph was associate editor of Meininger’s Wine Business International, which he helped to launch in 2006. In 1983, after living in Burgundy for five years, he moved back to London, where he launched Wine International magazine; set up the International Wine Challenge; became a wine writer for the Sunday Telegraph, and wrote The Wine Lists, the first of his 25 books. He has chaired and launched over 50 wine competitions in Asia, Europe and the UK and has been in Who’s Who since 2013.

Awards he has received include the Jacob’s Creek ‘Golden Vine’; ‘the Best Wine Guide in the World’; the Glenfiddich; The Wine Guild of the United Kingdom Premier; the Marques de Caceres and the inaugural Vinventions Innovation Award. He regularly gives keynote presentations, appears on television and radio and has lectured at the Wine & Spirits Educational Trust, Geisenheim, Burgundy and Sonoma Wine Business Schools. Joseph is one of the trio behind Hugh Kevin & Robert Wines whose le Grand Noir range now sell over 3.8m bottles per year in over 60 countries. His website is winethinker.com. His newest ventures include the Wine Thinking Substack and K’AVSHIRI, a ground-breaking set of wines from Georgian wine venture. Two new books, Wine Thinking and The Wine People will be published in 2025.

Connect:

Website: https://winethinker.com/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertejoseph/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wine_thinker/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speakers: Felicity Carter, Kristen Reitzell

Podcasts have skyrocketed in recent years, becoming one of the most dynamic and intimate ways to connect with audiences. But where does wine fit into this booming medium?This session featuring Kristen Reitzell (Jackson Family Wines) and Felicity Carter (wine media leader) offers a deep dive into the state of wine podcasts today, placing them within the broader podcast industry and exploring key questions such as:

• What advantages do podcasts offer compared to other social media channels?
• How effective are they in converting listeners into loyal audiences or consumers?
• Can audio-only content succeed in communicating a sensorial product like wine?
• What are the leading podcasts in education, trade, regional storytelling, and entertainment?

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

You can read Erica’s article which sparked this conversation online at:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ericaduecy/2025/12/30/where-wine-won-in-2025---and-what-the-growth-signals-are-telling-us/ 

The conversation explores where wine is winning, why it’s winning there and what that signals about the category’s future.

More about today’s guest:

Erica Duecy is founder of Business of Drinks, a podcast and data and insights consultancy, and one of the drinks industry’s most accomplished digital and content strategists. She has built publishing and marketing programs for Drizly, VinePair, SevenFifty, and other hospitality and drinks tech companies. She also has led digital editorial teams at Architectural Digest and Saveur magazines. Her content, podcast, and video programs have won more than 40 digital and editorial awards. She is a WSET Advanced-certified wine and spirits communicator, and author of the cocktail book Storied Sips (Random House), about the real-life stories behind the world’s most famous cocktails.

Connect:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-duecy-4a35844/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericaduecy/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series.

Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Introduce the Valle d'Aosta as a winemaking region with a focus on the Morgex et de La Salle subzone.
• Explore the daily life of a winemaker in this extreme, high-altitude area and highlights Prié Blanc, a native white grape uniquely suited to these conditions.
• Explain the growth of Morgex et de La Salle wines on the national and international market.

More about today’s host:  

James MacNay grew up in East Sussex, studied humanities, and holds both British and Italian passports. He began his career as a walking tour guide before moving into the wine and food trade. In 2016, alongside his partner Cinzia, he founded MacNay Travel & Wine, launching their first itinerary, Heart of the Italian Alps. A top-scoring Italian Wine Ambassador, James is among fewer than 500 IWAs worldwide. He also holds other wine qualifications and loves sharing his passion for Italian wine and culture through writing and public speaking.

Connect:

Website: https://travelandwine.co.uk/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macnay_travel_and_wine/

More about today’s guest:  

The Pavese e figli winery (formerly known as Pavese Ermes) is a small family-run winery located in the Alpine village of La Ruine, within the commune of Morgex, in the Aosta Valley of Italy. The vineyards are situated at an altitude of 900 to 1,200 meters above sea level, making them some of the highest in Europe. The winery specializes exclusively in cultivating the rare, native white grape variety, Prié Blanc, which thrives in the high-altitude, cool climate. They are a leading producer of Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle DOC wine known for its distinct minerality, freshness, and complexity. They also produce still, sparkling (Metodo Classico), and late-harvest (ice wine style, named Ninive) styles. The winery uses the traditional low pergola training system to protect the grapes from low temperatures. 

Connect:

Website: https://www.ermespavese.it/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/famiglia_pavese/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aziendavitivinicola.paveseermes/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Today’s topic(s): 

The topics discussed on today’s show include Professor Scienza’s experiment on soil from Eastern Europe, a preview of his Vinitaly 2026 masterclasses, the difference between vocation and autochthony, and the different places where Sangiovese has found its vocation.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Mitja Sirk is a young Italian sommelier and wine producer from Cormòns, in the Collio Goriziano area, where the Sirk family has been a benchmark for gastronomy and hospitality for decades through La Subida and the Trattoria Al Cacciatore. Raised among the vineyards and the family’s extensive wine cellar, Mitja developed a deep passion for wine from an early age, an experience that led him to carry out his first vinification under the guidance of Josko Gravner and later to further refine his knowledge at prestigious Italian and French wineries. As a sommelier at Trattoria Al Cacciatore, he expertly selects local and international wines to accompany refined Friulian cuisine, promoting the identity of the territory. At the same time, he founded a wine-producing project focused on the native Friulano grape variety, enhancing historic vineyards on ponca soils and adopting environmentally respectful cultivation methods. His vision combines tradition and modernity, contributing to the growing appreciation of Collio wines on both the national and international stage.

Connect:

Website: https://www.lasubida.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitjasirk/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• A clear understanding of current U.S. wine subscription trends.
• How Italian wineries can enter existing subscription platforms without building their own programs.
• Why direct-to-consumer strategies create brand ambassadors, even when purchases don’t happen at the winery.

More about the guest: 

Emily Yuhas is the founder and CEO of Awtomic, which manages subscriptions, wine clubs, allocations and memberships for wineries on Shopify. Coming from a tech and broad ecommerce background has allowed her to bring best practices from subscription ecommerce together with a deep understanding of white glove needs of wineries and tasting rooms to deliver a future-ready solution for wineries as we enter a new age of selling and managing clubs.

Emily Yuhas has worked on large-scale commerce, conversion, and productivity problems at companies like Redfin, Eventbrite, and Microsoft and is passionate about building software that helps creators and businesses scale.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.awtomic.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-yuhas/

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Key learning objectives:

• Understand the structure and cultural specificities of the Malaysian wine market, including consumption habits and key cities.
• Identify key market players, distribution channels, and the Malaysian wine consumer profile.
• Gain practical insights into opportunities, challenges, and long-term strategies for Italian wineries entering or expanding in Malaysia.

Companies mentioned by KC: Boutiq Wine, With Love from Italy

Places to check out while in Kuala Lumpur: Park90 KL, Racines KL, Chim by Chef Noom, Farmer's Bar

More about today’s guest:

Kwang Chan (KC) Tay is an experienced sommelier, wine and cheese expert, and Treasurer for the Sommelier Association of Malaysia (SOMLAY). He is the Winner of Best Sommelier for Italian Wine Malaysia 2024 and has extensive experience in education, event management, consultancy, and social media content creation. KC has represented Malaysia on prestigious platforms, including the RVF World Tasting Championship 2023 in France, the SJM Asia Top Sommelier Summit 2023 & 2024 in Macau, and the ASI Bootcamp Asia Pacific 2025.

As a freelance professional, he specializes in wine dinners, tastings, and workshops, with a particular focus on wine and cheese pairing. KC has also been invited by the European Commission to lead workshops and seminars on dairy products at Food & Hotel Asia 2022 and 2025, continuously sharing his expertise with both industry professionals and consumers.

Connect:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tay-kwang-chan-907358167/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k_c_tay_/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kctay/ 

More about the host:

Roza Zharmukhambetova has a background in foreign languages and education. She discovered her passion for wine in Beijing, where she gained two years of experience in wine sales. Since returning to Kazakhstan, she has focused on studying Italian wine and exploring its regions. Roza holds certifications as an Italian Wine Ambassador (VIA), Italian Wine Scholar (WSG), Langhe Wines Ambassador (BBA), and Valpolicella Wine Specialist (VEP). She is also a member of the Kazakhstan Sommelier Association. Since the end of 2024, she has been a member of the Italian Wine Podcast (IWP) team, contributing her passion for Italian wine.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/le_vin_en_rose/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozazharmukhambetova/ 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speaker: John Gillespie, Moderator: Ryan Goydos

Sales of wine in the U.S. are trending downward. In 2023, U.S. wine sales fell by 36 million cases vs. the previous year. In 2024 another 15 million cases in sales were lost, bringing sales of wine in the U.S. to their lowest annual level since 2011. The session considered the results of a July 2025 survey of U.S. beverage alcohol consumers in ages 21-39 with the primary objective of detailing the current position of wine among the overall beverage alcohol usage and attitudes of the consumer segment that will drive the beverage alcohol market for the coming 20 years.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass.

About Ryan Robinson:

Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting Team, representing the United States and the World Wine Tasting Championships and holds the credentials of Advanced Sommelier-CMS; WSET Diploma and WSET Educator in Wine, Sake and Beer; Rioja Wine Educator; VIA Italian Wine Ambassador; Wine Scholar Guild Educator and Italian and Spanish Wine Specialist; and Certified Scotch Whisky.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommryan/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sommryan/ 

The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza is available now at:

https://mammajumboshrimp.com/products/the-art-of-wine-storytelling 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand Avellino as a wine-growing region, including its terroir, climate, and why it plays a key role in Campania’s wine identity.
• Explore Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo, learning how these grape varieties express themselves in Avellino and how I Favati works with them in the vineyard and cellar.
• Gain insight into the realities of small family wineries, including the challenges, values, and long-term vision of producers like I Favati in today’s wine market.

More about today’s host:  

As well as being a certified Italian Wine Expert (IWE), Stephanie Johnson holds a WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits. Her wine career spans the journalism, retail and restaurant sectors. She joined Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2013 and later served as Italian Wine Editor from 2016 to 2024. Stephanie has judged at international competitions such as the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon in Bordeaux and 5StarWines – the Book in Verona. She has led masterclasses for top sommeliers in New York City and presented at major industry events including Vinitaly and wine2wine Business Forum in Verona. A passionate educator, she teaches WSET Level 2, Level 3, and Diploma courses at NYC’s International Wine Center. Her upcoming venture, SteepleJack, will spotlight the heroic stories of Italian wine producers, blending deep expertise with compelling storytelling.

Connect:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-johnson-dws-b0a0121a/   

More about today’s guest:  

I Favati winery (Cantine I Favati) is located in Cesinali, a town in the heart of the Irpinia region, within the Province of Avellino. This prestigious wine-producing zone in Southern Italy is known for its volcanic soils and indigenous grapes. The winery is known for producing high-quality, mineral-driven wines from indigenous grapes (Fiano, Greco, Aglianico) and for its exceptional Fiano di Avellino DOCG, Greco di Tufo DOCG, and Taurasi DOCG, emphasizing organic practices, vineyard focus, and a welcoming, family-run tasting experience with homemade food.

Connect:

Website: https://www.cantineifavati.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cantineifavati/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CantineIFavati/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

These episodes are generally in Italian.

Today’s question comes from Richard Hough (part 2).

Today’s question(s): 

🇬🇧 In your opinion, what is it about wine that still fascinates people even in a time when everything moves fast, people drink less, and communication happens in seconds?

 🇮🇹 Secondo te, cosa ha ancora il vino di così affascinante anche in un’epoca in cui tutto scorre veloce, si beve meno e si comunica in pochi secondi?

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

The Gradis'ciutta winery is located in San Floriano del Collio, in the heart of Italy's Collio wine region, near the border with Slovenia, in the province of Gorizia (GO). The winery is situated in a beautiful area known for its distinctive terroir, offering views of both the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea. The family-run winery is known for its high-quality, organic wines, particularly from indigenous grapes like Ribolla Gialla and Friulano, alongside international varieties, emphasizing sustainability, biodiversity, and a cross-border identity with Slovenia, while reflecting the unique terroir of the region and distinctive Ponca soil. 

Connect:

Website: https://www.gradisciutta.eu/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gradisciutta/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gradisciutta/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• The evolving role of formal wine education in building confidence and credibility for wine professionals in the US.
• The importance of representation and accessibility in shaping the next generation of wine educators, consumers and wine professionals.
• How emerging markets like the Caribbean are engaging with Italian wines.

More about the guest: 

Born in Brooklyn, NYC, Deniece Bourne grew up in Barbados, completing an Associate degree in French, Spanish and Italian for Business and Tourism followed by a BSc in Biology. In 2007, she fell in love with wine while pursuing a Master’s degree in Management which led her to Palate Selections, a boutique wine import and distribution business which she co-founded and managed for almost a decade. Since returning to New York in 2018, Deniece has been working for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and is currently the Account Development Manager with responsibility for Eastern USA and Canada and the Caribbean. 

Connect: 

Website: https://deniecebourne.com/home/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deniecebourne/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deniecembourne/ 

More about the host:

Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. 

During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022, Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

More about today’s guest:

Amy Gross is a wine technology entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of VineSleuth and Wine4.Me, platforms that use sensory science, data, and artificial intelligence to help people discover wines they truly enjoy. Her work focuses on flavor-based wine recommendations, moving beyond traditional scores toward personalized taste matching. VineSleuth’s technology is used by wineries, retailers, and restaurants to improve customer experience and increase engagement through data-driven personalization.

Amy is a frequent international speaker at major wine and business events, where she explores the future of wine, AI, and consumer behavior. She is also National President of Women For WineSense and has been recognized as a rising leader in the global wine industry.

Connect:

Website: https://vinesleuth.com/ https://wine4.me/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amycgross/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amy_c_gross/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series.

Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speaker: Jacqueline Strum

Moderator: Alicia Lini

Wine Enthusiast is a media and commerce company that stands as the leading source of innovation and information around wine. The Certified B Corporation has been bringing the wine lifestyle to wine lovers around the globe for more than 45 years, and the company launched a travel division in 2024. Jacqueline Strum, President and Publisher of Wine Enthusiast Media, speaks to why the media business created the Wine Enthusiast Tasting Room Directory and Cork+Compass Travel, why it was important to incorporate the Wine Enthusiast Tasting Panel in the new wine tourism operation, and how these new resources can help attract more visitors to wineries.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

The Turkish archaeological site mentioned by Professor Slingerland is Göbekli Tepe. Archaeological evidence suggests it is one of the world's earliest sites for brewing beer, with massive stone troughs showing residue of fermented grain, indicating beer was central to large ritual feasts that may have spurred the development of agriculture.

The other book mentioned in the show was “Trying Not to Try: Ancient China, Modern Science, and the Power of Spontaneity” by Professor Edward Slingerland.

The Book Review by Richard Hough:

“Drunk: How We Sipped, Danced, and Stumbled Our Way to Civilization” is a compelling and timely reminder of the central role that alcohol has played throughout the course of human history. Playful and entertaining, but also thought provoking and provocative, it explores, from an anthropological perspective, why we get drunk and even places alcohol at the heart of human evolution, making a powerful and persuasive case for the important role that moderate alcohol consumption can play in contemporary society. 

About today’s guest: 

Edward Slingerland is Distinguished University Scholar and Professor of Philosophy at the University of British Columbia, with adjunct appointments in Psychology and Asian Studies, as well as Co-Director of the Centre for the Study of Human Evolution, Cognition and Culture and Director of the Database of Religious History.

Professor Slingerland is the author of two trade books, Trying Not to Try (2014) and Drunk (2021), as well as multiple academic books, translations, and edited volumes. His work has been featured in major media outlets, and he has done numerous interviews on TV, radio, blogs, and podcasts, including NPR, the BBC, PBS, CNN, the CBC, and the Joe Rogan Experience.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.edwardslingerland.com/ 

More about the host:

Richard Hough is the editor, translator and project curator behind The Art of Wine Storytelling, Wine Democracy and Vine and Prejudice. He has also published several books about life in Verona, chronicling the city’s history, culture and daily life, not forgetting, of course, its wine, including Verona Campione, published in May 2025. With a long-standing passion for whisky and beer, he’s a relative newcomer to the world of wine and is now desperately trying to make up for lost time! He is the host of Book Club on the Italian Wine Podcast.

Connect:

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/rickhough.bsky.social 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verona_campione 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickhough/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the history and identity of Castell’in Villa, including its origins, location in Chianti, and how heritage, climate, and soil shape the estate’s wines.
2. Learn how organic viticulture and sustainability are applied in practice, through real examples from vineyard management, winemaking, and long-term estate stewardship.
3. Explore Castell’in Villa’s winemaking philosophy and portfolio, including flagship wines, other key labels, and the role of agrotourism in expressing the estate’s values.

More about today’s host:  

Mauricio de Chiaro, Italian Wine Ambassador based in Brazil and Piemonte, has visited more than 150 wineries across Italy and actively promotes Italian wines to Brazilian audiences worldwide, with a strong focus on lesser-known native grape varieties. With a 30+ year career in finance, he brings solid business expertise to the Italian wine industry.

Mauricio is the founder of The Wine Partners, a buyers’ club connecting small, family-owned producers with engaged, hands-on wine lovers. The platform allows members to buy directly from producers and participate in unique winemaking experiences. The Wine Partners has chapters in Miami, Orlando, New York, Lisbon, and São Paulo.

Connect:

Website: http://www.thewinepartners.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauriciodechiaro/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.wine.partners/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Castell’in Villa is a historic medieval estate located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the heart of Chianti Classico, near Siena. The winery is renowned for its traditional, age-worthy Chianti Classico wines, particularly its 100% Sangiovese, known for elegance, complexity, and longevity. The estate is also committed to organic viticulture and classic winemaking, including aging in large oak casks. In addition to wine production, Castell’in Villa offers accommodation and hospitality, providing an authentic Tuscan experience among vineyards and olive groves.

Matteo Altare, born in Alba in 1994, is the Technical Director of Castell’in Villa. Although not from a winemaking family, his early years spent in the countryside with his grandparents fostered a deep respect for nature and agriculture. He studied at the Enological School of Alba and the University of Turin, and over the past sixteen years has gained hands-on experience in vineyards and cellars across Langhe and Monferrato. Alongside his practical work, Matteo taught enological chemistry at the Enological School of Alba, reinforcing his belief that teaching is an essential part of learning.

Connect:

Website: https://castellinvilla.com/en/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matteo-altare-38318129b 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/castellinvilla_official/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Castellin-Villa/100063678876676/# 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

More about today’s guest:

Cantina Hauner (Hauner Winery) is located on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Salina, part of the Aeolian Islands in Sicily. The winery was established by the artist and architect, Carlo Hauner, who uses his paintings depicting Aeolian architecture, volcanic colors, and sea, to create iconic wine and caper labels, making them instantly recognizable. Cantina Hauner is famous for revitalizing traditional wines from the Aeolian Islands, especially the sweet Malvasia delle Lipari, and for its high-quality Salina IGT wines (both red and white), alongside producing famous Salina capers, all presented with distinctive labels featuring the founder's art. 

Connect:

Website: https://www.hauner.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hauner_winery/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cantinaHauner/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of a precise, evidence-based understanding of consumer preferences, rather than relying on assumptions.
• Why clear and targeted messaging matters, and how wineries should shape and translate their stories for different international markets.
• How choosing the right importer can make or break a winery’s long-term success in a market.

More about the guest: 

Cristina Mercuri DipWSET – presenter, Wine Educator and Master of Wine candidate. She abandoned her career as a lawyer to dedicate herself to her great passion, wine. She is also a Founder & CEO of Mercuri Wine Club, an innovative academy and consultancy supporting leading Italian wine brands in education, communication, and marketing. She teaches students of all levels, from WSET Diploma candidates to sommeliers and wine & spirits companies. She represents several Italian wineries at important wine events such as Vinitaly and Milan Wine Week. She also conducts various promotional events such as staff training, team building and private tastings. Cristina has over 10 years of experience in the sector and stands out for her profound multidisciplinary knowledge.

Connect: 

Website: https://www.wine-club.it/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cristinamercuri_wine/  

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cristina-mercuri-dipwset-004376a 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crismercuri?locale=it_IT  

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Key learning objectives:

• Understand Japanese consumer taste preferences and identify which Italian wine categories perform best.
• Learn how wine education and institutions influence the market and support market entry.
• Gain practical guidance on cultural adaptation and communication strategies for sustainable success in Japan.

Wine spots in Tokyo recommended by Ettore: Grand Marché du Vin, Madeira Entrada, both located in Ginza.

More about today’s guest:

Ettore Donadeo is a wine educator originally from Marche, Italy, and has been based in Japan since 2008. He entered the wine industry in 2012 and began his career as a wine educator in 2017 at Caplan Wine Academy in Tokyo. Ettore holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma and is certified to teach WSET courses, Wine Scholar Guild programs (French, Italian, and Spanish Wine Scholar), as well as Barossa Wine School courses. Known for his structured and engaging teaching style, he specializes in translating complex wine regions and styles into clear, practical knowledge for both wine professionals and dedicated enthusiasts. In addition to teaching, Ettore manages academic programs, is involved in wine buying and course development, and regularly collaborates with embassies, wine consortia, and international organizations to support wine education and market development in Japan.

Connect:

Website: https://www.caplan-wineacademy.com/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ettoredonadeo/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ettore_wine/ 

More about the host:

Roza Zharmukhambetova has a background in foreign languages and education. She discovered her passion for wine in Beijing, where she gained two years of experience in wine sales. Since returning to Kazakhstan, she has focused on studying Italian wine and exploring its regions. 

Roza holds certifications as an Italian Wine Ambassador (VIA), Italian Wine Scholar (WSG), Langhe Wines Ambassador (BBA), and Valpolicella Wine Specialist (VEP). She is also a member of the Kazakhstan Sommelier Association. Since late last year, she has been a member of the Italian Wine Podcast (IWP) team, contributing her passion for Italian wine.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/le_vin_en_rose/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozazharmukhambetova/ 

_______________________________

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speakers: Robert Joseph, Stephanie Johnson DipWSET & IWE, Yannick Benjamin

This Tasting Session explores some of the “Top Scoring” wines selected for 5StarWines - the Book 2026. During the session, Robert Joseph, General Chair of the Selection, Stephanie Johnson DipWSET & IWE and Yannick Benjamin, Panel Chairs of the Selection, explain the tasting process and the rationale behind such exceptional scores, simulating the discussion that takes place during the evaluation process for the Selection, giving participants the opportunity to take a behind-the-scenes look at 5StarWines - the Book.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

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If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Get more familiar with Valtellina and its subzones.
2. Appreciate the challenges of making wine in Valtellina.
3. Hear how climate change is affecting the region.

More about today’s host:  

As well as being a certified Italian Wine Expert (IWE), Stephanie Johnson holds a WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits. Her wine career spans the journalism, retail and restaurant sectors. She joined Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2013 and later served as Italian Wine Editor from 2016 to 2024. Stephanie has judged at international competitions such as the Concours Mondial du Sauvignon in Bordeaux and 5StarWines – the Book in Verona. She has led masterclasses for top sommeliers in New York City and presented at major industry events including Vinitaly and wine2wine Business Forum in Verona. A passionate educator, she teaches WSET Level 2, Level 3, and Diploma courses at NYC’s International Wine Center. Her upcoming venture, SteepleJack, will spotlight the heroic stories of Italian wine producers, blending deep expertise with compelling storytelling.

Connect:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-johnson-dws-b0a0121a/    

More about today’s guest:  

Marco Ferrari, an Italian winemaker in Valtellina known for crafting precise, organic Nebbiolo wines from steep, terraced vineyards, emphasizing minerality, elegance, and minimal intervention. He learned winemaking in Franciacorta and the Rhône Valley (with legends like Thierry Allemand) before founding his own estate in 2019, focusing on traditional methods, spontaneous fermentations, and natural yeast, creating vibrant wines reflecting the alpine terroir. 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

These episodes are generally in Italian.

Today’s question comes from Richard Hough.

Today’s question(s): 

🇬🇧 Wine education often relies on technical sheets and scores. But are we truly teaching people to feel a wine or merely to decode it like a technical object?

🇮🇹 L’educazione al vino si basa spesso su schede tecniche e punteggi. Ma stiamo davvero insegnando alle persone a sentire un vino o solo a decodificarlo come fosse un oggetto tecnico?

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series.

Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Rachel Roddy is a British food writer, cookery author, and long-time Rome resident. Born in Southampton in 1972, she originally trained in acting before moving to Italy in 2005, where she settled in Rome’s Testaccio neighborhood and began writing about food on her blog Rachel Eats and later for major publications. Rachel writes a weekly food column called “A Kitchen in Rome” for The Guardian and has contributed to outlets like Financial Times, Noble Rot, Vanity Fair, National Geographic, and Eater.

She is the author of three Italian cookbooks:

• Five Quarters: Recipes and Notes from a Kitchen in Rome (2015), which won the André Simon Memorial Fund Food Book Award and the Guild of Food Writers First Book Award.
• Two Kitchens: Family Recipes from Sicily and Rome (2017).
• An A-Z of Pasta: Stories, Shapes, Sauces, Recipes (2021).

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelaliceroddy/?hl=en 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Key trends shaping New York City’s on-premise wine scene, as seen through Peasant’s guest preferences.
• How wine professionals can better bridge the gap between wine media, scoring systems, and real-world consumers.
• Insights into emerging styles, regions, and categories to watch as the wine industry looks ahead to 2026.

More about the guest: 

Michael Laudenslager is a seasoned American sommelier and wine professional, currently serving as the Wine Director at Peasant, an Italian restaurant in New York City known for its Italian-focused wine list. At Peasant, he oversees the wine program and curates a wine list that emphasizes Italian wines, often highlighting biodynamic, sustainable, and minimal-intervention producers.

He holds certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers and has extensive experience leading beverage programs. Throughout his career, Michael has managed wine and beverage programs for notable chefs like Marc Forgione, Peter McAndrew, and Tony Clark, worked as Director of Restaurants for Marriott International in both Washington, D.C. and New York, and curated wine programs at the original Smith & Wollensky in New York.

In addition to his restaurant work, Michael has recently joined Wine Enthusiast, where he reviews wines from regions including Tuscany, Southern Italy, and Sardinia, bringing his deep industry knowledge to a broader audience.

Connect:  

Website: https://www.peasantnyc.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-laudenslager-bba1a7105/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiggrappa/ 

More about the host:

Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. 

During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022, Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/

Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

More about today’s guest:

Elizabeth is a sommelier at Andros Taverna and Mano a Mano whose approach to wine is shaped by working across a wide range of roles within hospitality. With experience spanning multiple positions on the floor and behind the bar, she brings a practical, guest-centered perspective rooted in service, rhythm, and real-world drinking habits. Her background in cocktails and bartending informs the way she thinks about balance, flavor, and accessibility. Elizabeth is drawn to the way food and wine bring people together and create shared experiences, and she is especially passionate about making wine approachable, giving a younger generation the confidence and language to engage with it without intimidation or pretense.

Connect:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-terracina/

More about the host:

McKenna found her love of wine while serving in a Napa Valley tasting room. She later graduated from the University of Notre Dame and pursued wine on the East Coast with E. & J. Gallo Winery. She has worked in wine distribution for restaurants and luxury retail stores for the past three years.

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, McKenna is a Certified Specialist of Wine (2021), Certified Sommelier (2022), and Italian Wine Ambassador (2023). She loves country swing dancing, hosting brunch parties, and sipping Italian wine.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mckennacassidy/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-cassidy-cs-csw-66baa412b/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mckennacassidy

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speaker: Karen MacNeil

The cumulative difficulties that the wine industry now faces are well known. They include negative and biased reporting about alcohol, generational down shifts, competition from cannabis and cannabis-infused beverages, the flattening of food and drink consumption by GLP-1 drugs, the proliferation of Ready to Drink cocktails, disruptions in distribution channels, the continued threat and impact of tariffs, and more. Yet despite these gale-force headwinds, a small team of professionals have launched one of the most successful pro-wine movements in recent history. Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible and co-founder of the campaigns Come Over October and Share & Pair Sundays, leads this session, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the campaigns and their successes.

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.     

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

These episodes are generally in Italian.

Today’s question comes from Anselmo Acquah.

Today’s question(s): 

🇬🇧 The taste of modern consumers has changed compared to 30 years ago. Has the scientific interpretation of wine quality evolved as well, or are we still chasing “good” with overly rigid categories?

🇮🇹 Il gusto dei consumatori è cambiato rispetto a trent’anni fa. Anche l’interpretazione scientifica della qualità del vino si è evoluta, oppure inseguiamo ancora il “buono” con categorie troppo rigide?

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

Stevie Kim is an Italian Wine Marketing & Communication Expert, Brand Positioning Specialist, and Public Speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series.

Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

More about today’s guest:

Mary Taylor Simeti is an American-born author, food writer, and historian renowned for her deep expertise in Sicilian culinary and medieval history, having moved to Sicily in 1962 and becoming a key figure in documenting its culture, food, and social life through books like Pomp and Sustenance and articles for the New York Times. She and her family own and run an organic farm in western Sicily, and she was also involved in Sicilian feminist publishing and social activism.

Connect:

Website: https://www.marytaylorsimeti.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtsimeti/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• The recurring themes and topics that shaped conversations about the US wine market in 2025.
• Tangible, real-world advice shared by their guests.
• Holiday wine picks from Barbara Fitzgerald and Juliana Colangelo.

More about the series:

Masterclass US Wine Market is a podcast series tailored to offer Italian wine producers and trade valuable insights on mastering the U.S. market for their brands. The podcast delves into best practices and case studies covering sales & distribution, social media, communications, and more. Each episode is presented with key takeaways for the audience, accompanied by a mini “quiz” at the end to reinforce the episode’s key lessons. Each episode is structured as a lesson, covering topics ranging from sales/marketing strategies to other aspects related to conducting business in the US market.

Hosted by Barbara Fitzgerald and Juliana Colangelo, two leading voices in U.S. wine marketing, communications, and brand strategy.

Explore the series: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/episodes_category/masterclass-us-wine-market/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Key learning objectives:

• Gain an overview of how wine importing and distribution work in India, including whether the market is centralized or state-based, how regulations differ across regions, and how import duties and taxation impact pricing and market access.
• Identify who the main importers and distributors are, how they operate, and which Italian wine categories and styles are currently performing best in the Indian market and why.
• Learn how Winesutra supports market entry and growth and what brand activation strategies proved to be successful. 

The wine importers mentioned in the episode: Dhall Group, Hema Connoisseur, Brindco, Wine Park, Rad Elan Distributors.

Wine spots in Mumbai recommended by Sanghamitra: AER, Vetro and Enoteca, Le Cirque Signature, The Table.

More about today’s guest:

Sanghamitra Banik is a French–Indian wine and business professional with a global career spanning Banking & Finance (2005–2012) and Wine & Spirits (2013–present). Based in Bordeaux since 2012, she combines strategic expertise from finance with deep involvement in the wine industry, luxury brand management, sustainability, and purpose-driven business.

She is the founder of Winesutra, a consulting and education platform that supports French and Italian wine brands entering the Indian market through market strategy, importer selection, brand positioning, education, and activation. Winesutra also plays an active role in organizing masterclasses, trade education initiatives, and career mentorship, helping both brands and wine professionals build sustainable, long-term growth.

Today, Sanghamitra’s work focuses on Wine & Spirits, business development, brand storytelling, and building bridges between Europe and India. She is also a regular contributor to India’s leading wine publications, including Sommelier India, Liquid – Fine, and WSCI, where she writes on wine culture, sustainability, and the evolving global wine landscape.

Connect:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanghamitrawinesutra/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winesutra/ 

More about the host:

Roza Zharmukhambetova has a background in foreign languages and education. She discovered her passion for wine in Beijing, where she gained two years of experience in wine sales. Since returning to Kazakhstan, she has focused on studying Italian wine and exploring its regions. 

Roza holds certifications as an Italian Wine Ambassador (VIA), Italian Wine Scholar (WSG), Langhe Wines Ambassador (BBA), and Valpolicella Wine Specialist (VEP). She is also a member of the Kazakhstan Sommelier Association. Since late last year, she has been a member of the Italian Wine Podcast (IWP) team, contributing her passion for Italian wine.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/le_vin_en_rose/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rozazharmukhambetova/ 

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Until next time, Cin Cin!

Speakers: Jessica Dupuy DipWSET, Doug Frost MW & MS, Jim Bube MS

What’s the difference between a Master Sommelier and a Master of Wine? Is one more for blind tasting parlor tricks? And the other for breaking down the finer points on what soil compositions and export markets have in common?

Join Jessica Dupuy, DipWSET, Certified Sommelier and seasoned wine journalist, for a dynamic discussion exploring the differences, similarities, and shared value of two of the wine world’s most respected credentials. For too long, confusion has hovered between the two. In the U.S., Master Sommeliers are often elevated to near-celebrity status, while in Europe, the title is less understood or recognized. Conversely, Masters of Wine are widely revered across Europe as the pinnacle of expertise yet often perceived in the U.S. as overly academic or inaccessible. This panel shifts the conversation from “which is better?” to “which path is best for whom?

The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of conversations from Vinitaly.USA in Chicago. wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually since 2014. This year the Forum was held alongside Vinitaly.USA in Chicago, taking it outside of Verona for the first time.

Full details about this and all other wine2wine Vinitaly Business Forum sessions available online at: https://www.vinitaly.com/en/forum/wine2wine-vinitaly-business-forum/programme/.

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast

If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/

Until next time, Cin Cin!

In this episode of the Italian Wine Podcast, Stevie Kim is in conversation with Erjola Braha, the founder and CEO of the Alehandro Group, one of Albania's most successful importing and distributing companies. With over 25 years of experience, the Alehandro Group represents over 70 Italian producers in Albania. 

In this intimate conversation from the cellar of Château Braha, Erjola tells the story behind her business, describes the scope of the Albanian market, and shares strategies for cracking this young and emerging market. Erjola also explains the close links between Albania and Italy, not least in relation to cuisine, and shares some of her favourite Albanese dishes.

This conversation took place in November 2025 against the backdrop of the historic Vinitaly Preview in Tirana, a special event celebrating the deep bond between Italy and Albania, a partnership founded on culture, taste, and shared passion.

More about the guest:

Erjola Braha is the founder and CEO of the Alehandro Group, one of Albania’s most successful wine importers and distributors. The Alehandro Group was established in 2001 as the first company in Albania dedicated exclusively to wine distribution, beginning with a series of partnerships in the heart of the Veneto region, expanding to other renowned wine-producing areas such as Tuscany, Piedmont, and beyond. In 2024, the Alehandro Group established the Alehandro Academy to nurture new generations of sommeliers and wine experts. 

Connect:

Website: https://alehandrogroup.al/en/ 

More about the host Stevie Kim: 

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series.

Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/

Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

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If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

More about today’s guest:

The Poderi Luigi Einaudi winery, a historic estate known for its elegant wines, is located in the heart of Italy's famous Piedmont wine region, primarily in Dogliani (Cuneo province), with significant vineyards also in renowned areas like Barolo (Terlo, Cannubi) and other Langhe locations. Poderi Luigi Einaudi is  historic winery, established by Italy's second president, Luigi Einaudi, pioneering quality wines from prime Langhe vineyards, particularly for making Dolcetto famous beyond its local area and producing renowned Barolo from prestigious crus like Cannubi and Terlo, blending tradition with modern techniques for authentic terroir expression. 

Giulia Abbona joined Poderi Einaudi Relais in 2015 and, driven by her passion for wine, began hosting winery tours in 2019. Today, she serves as the winery’s hospitality manager, overseeing social media, events, tours, and tastings.

Connect:

Website: https://www.poderieinaudi.com/en/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poderieinaudi/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poderieinaudi 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Key Takeaways:

• How the wine review process works and the details producers often overlook.
• What critics value in communication with producers.
• What resonates with American consumers and gives producers a strategic advantage.

More about the guest: 

Alder Yarrow is a pioneering wine writer and one of the original voices of wine blogging. He launched Vinography on 15 January 2004 and continues to publish regularly on the site, which San Francisco Magazine famously described as making him “The Wine World’s Brightest Cyberstar.”

Since 2011, Alder has been a columnist and wine critic for jancisrobinson.com, where he focuses on American wines and the U.S. wine scene. His work has received numerous honors, including awards from the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers Awards, and in 2013 he was inducted into the Wine Media Guild of New York’s Wine Writers Hall of Fame, an honor shared by only 24 living wine writers.

Alder is the author of The Essence of Wine, an award-winning coffee table book exploring the aromas and flavors of wine through photography and essays. He is also a contributor to the 5th edition of the Oxford Companion to Wine and the forthcoming 9th edition of the World Atlas of Wine. Beyond writing, he is the creator and product manager of the Old Vine Registry, a public, crowd-sourced global database dedicated to preserving old-vine vineyards.

Connect:  

Website: https://www.vinography.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.instagram.com/vinography/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinography/ 

More about the host:

With a career of nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald specializes in D2C marketing and business development. She's led roles from entry level to senior management, combining her extensive experience with data analysis, critical thinking and storytelling while driving revenue growth and brand recognition for California wineries. As a part of the 4th generation of an Italian-American family among the California wine industry pioneers, Barbara has spent her life around wine growing, production, marketing, distribution and hospitality. A Syracuse University graduate, she returned to California to gain diverse industry perspectives from a range of wineries.

As an Italian Wine Ambassador, she brings her expertise to the Italian wine market, known for its authenticity and consumer demand. Barbara now runs Apri La Creative Consulting, coaching wineries in Italy and the US to strategically develop their D2C channels in line with their brand values. Together with her husband, Barbara also owns and operates a boutique wine production company, and a small import company specializing in Italian wines to the US.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barbarajeanfitz/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/

Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com/ 

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Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast