Episode 184 - Wine, Drums & Wanderlust with Sommelier Emma Rubenstein

What happens when a classically trained musician pursues a career in wine? For Emma Rubenstein, it means becoming a Certified Sommelier, Assistant General Manager at Atlanta’s Cooks & Soldiers, and a drummer in a Brazilian psych band. In Episode 184 of A Cork in the Road, Kelly sits down with Emma to explore her journey from studying sociology and music to more than a decade in Atlanta’s hospitality and wine scene. Emma brings a unique perspective to her career in wine, with a genuine passion for helping people feel more confident exploring what’s in their glass. When she’s not working at the restaurant, Emma can be found behind the drum kit with Atlanta’s Brazilian psych band Sad Fish, comfort-watching Star Trek and Vanderpump Rules, or hanging out with her two husky mixes and sassy tabby cat. This conversation also takes us beyond Atlanta, with stories from Emma’s recent travels through Spain and Portugal, including some unexpected twists and valuable life lessons. Plus, she gives us a behind-the-scenes peek at her return to the 2027 Sommlympics, including the process of choosing a team name. You can follow Emma on Instagram at @botrytits, and you can learn more about her wine program at @cooksatl and www.cooksandsoldiers.com. Recorded August 30, 2026-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

What happens when a professional basketball career collides with a passion for wine? For NBA player CJ McCollum, it looks a lot like owning a winery in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and continuing to study wine with the same curiosity and dedication he brings to the basketball court. In this live audience episode of A Cork in the Road, Kelly and a group of fellow Atlanta wine professionals sit down with CJ at The Vine Club in Atlanta for a conversation about the origins of McCollum Heritage 91 and the evolution into his estate-driven wines from McCollum Family Vineyard. CJ shares how wine became more than an interest, why he continues to pursue his wine education, and how he balances the worlds of professional basketball and winemaking. This episode explores what these two seemingly different worlds have in common: discipline, curiosity, and teamwork. You can keep an eye out for McCollum Family Vineyard wines on retail shelves and wine lists, and you can also follow @mccollumfamilyvineyard and @3jmccollum on Instagram.Featuring insights from the following guests in the audience:Taylor Sublett @thevineclubatlMike Jordan @mikejordanatlChelsea Young @winey.redheadRandi Brady @diveresifiedwinesJordan Alexandria @oenophileinstituteChristine Fludd @revivalwineRecorded August 1, 2026-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

Episode 182 takes A Cork in the Road “on the road” to Walla Walla, Washington, for a special crossover episode with our friends at The Wine Makers podcast. Recorded during Blood of Gods Annual Merrymaking, an unforgettable festival celebrating the intersection of wine, art, music, and heavy metal, this episode explores what makes the event and the Walla Walla wine community so special. After nearly 15 years in wine, I can honestly say this was one of the best events I’ve attended. It is rooted in community, creativity, exploration, and a whole lot of joy. Huge thanks to Winery Sixteen 600 for bringing me into the fold by giving me the very fun assignment of writing a wine review for the Blood of Gods ‘zine with one instruction: don’t follow the rules. For this conversation, we all sit down with Stacy Buchanan, founder of Blood of Gods, and Brooke Delmas Robertson of Delmas Wines, who recently opened a tasting room in downtown Walla Walla. We talk about the origins of Blood of Gods, what’s happening in the Walla Walla wine scene, and the unlikely but delightful ways wine and heavy metal music can come together. It’s a conversation about wine, creativity, community, and finding joy in doing things a little differently. And yes, we talk about the wine, too, because the Delmas wines are absolutely stunning. Welcome to Walla Walla.Featuring:Brian Casey @sonomawinelover @winemakerspodBrooke Delmas Robertson @delmaswinesStacy Buchanan @bloodofgodszineJasmine Egan @jazegan @sixteen600www.delmaswines.comwww.thewinemakerspodcast.comRecorded July 18, 2026-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

Episode 181 of A Cork in the Road welcomes Kiki Austin, Atlanta's acclaimed sake sommelier and the head sommelier at Michelin-starred Mujō. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Kiki's journey into sake began with a single drink after karate class and has since taken her from wine retail and fine dining to immersive travels throughout Japan, deepening her understanding of one of the world's most fascinating beverages. In this conversation, Kiki shares how sake is made, why it's so unique for food pairings, and how thoughtful hospitality can make guests feel more confident exploring it. We also discuss the artistry and pursuit of excellence in Michelin-starred dining in Atlanta, and she talks about her passion for increasing visibility for the sake industry as a whole. Whether you're already a sake enthusiast or simply sake-curious, this episode offers an engaging look at the people, culture, and craftsmanship behind every pour. You can follow @kiki.sipz and @mujoatl on Instagram, and visit www.mujoatl.com to learn more about their menu and experience.Recorded July 20, 2026-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

From the classroom to the wine bar, Bejay Osby has spent nearly two decades proving that education comes in many forms. In Episode 180 of A Cork in the Road, Kelly sits down with the longtime Atlanta educator and wine student to explore how his career as a school teacher has naturally complemented his lifelong passion for wine, hospitality, and community. Bejay reflects on the mentors, restaurants, and wine shops that shaped his journey through Atlanta's wine scene from his early days discovering Cru Beaujolais to working events with Brookhaven Wines and behind the bar at Chamblee & Vine. Together, Kelly and Bejay also celebrate their shared love of dining along Buford Highway, where his creative "No Sunday Scaries Supper Club" pairs thoughtfully selected wines with unforgettable meals, meaningful conversations, and new friendships. It's a nostalgic walk through Atlanta wine history, a celebration of lifelong learning, and a reminder that the best wine experiences are always about the people around the table.Recorded April 26, 2026-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

Episode 179 features an entertaining recording at The Vine Club in Atlanta, GA with a live audience conversation and tasting hosted by Poppi Monroe, the U.S. Central Regional Sales Manager for Champagne Laurent-Perrier. Joined by a room full of women working throughout the Atlanta wine industry, Kelly sits down with Poppi to explore her fascinating career journey from acting in film and television to building a successful career in wine sales, brand development, and distributor management. Today, Poppi oversees six Southern states for one of Champagne's most celebrated houses, and she shares insights on leadership, relationship-building, navigating a competitive industry, and how experiences from previous careers continue to shape her approach to the wine business. Throughout the discussion, guests enjoy and react to a guided tasting of Laurent-Perrier Champagnes paired with caviar, courtesy of Arrivato Imports. Laurent-Perrier has been crafting fresh and elegant Champagnes for over 200 years. The House is family- and female-run plus fiercely independent. The energy from the audience brought synergistic curiosity, candor, and plenty of thoughtful insights, creating an atmosphere that sparked meaningful conversations about wine, career growth, and the experiences women encounter throughout the industry. Whether you're passionate about Champagne, interested in wine careers, or simply enjoy hearing stories from people making wine more human and accessible, this episode delivers an inspiring and engaging conversation from start to finish.Special thanks to Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits for sponsoring this live audience recording and to Chris McLlyod for helping to make this whole tasting experience possible.Recorded May 6, 2026-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

What happens when the worlds of wine and golf collide? More than you might think. In Episode 178 of A Cork in the Road, we welcome two Virginia wine industry leaders - Stephen Barnard, the Winemaker for Keswick Vineyards, and Lance Lemon, the owner of Penny’s Wine Shop and Parallax Project Wines - for a lively and unexpected conversation about the parallels between the craft of wine and the game of golf. Recorded ahead of the 4th annual Monticello Wine Trail Winemakers Golf Tournament, this episode explores how both pursuits challenge us to keep learning, embrace imperfection, connect with nature and community, and find joy in the journey. From how a glass of wine might affect your golf swing to bigger conversations around wine tourism, collaboration, and creating memorable experiences, there is no shortage of entertaining insight. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire wine Q&A with both guests that delivers plenty of laughs and reveals the personalities behind the bottles. A special thank you to the Monticello Wine Trail for sponsoring this episode and empowering us to highlight the innovative ways Virginia’s wine community is bringing people together through shared experiences.For more information about all of the 2026 Wine Week festivities, you can visit www.monticellowinetrail.com/taste-of Recorded in June 2026 with generous suppport from our friends at the Monticello Wine Trail.-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

Episode 177 brings together two things Atlanta takes seriously: lemon pepper chicken wings and great wine. Recorded live at The Perlant, this episode features five Atlanta sommeliers taking on a pairing challenge to find the perfect wine combo for Chef Dene Lynn’s wings while a panel of culinary judges and media personalities share honest reactions, thoughtful insights, and plenty of lively debate along the way. For the event, Chef Dene (@chefdenelynn) prepared two distinct versions of her signature wings, highlighting both the bold flavor and cultural importance of one of Atlanta’s most beloved dishes. Beyond her work in the kitchen, Chef Dene serves as an Instructional Manager at the Navigate Foundation, where she helps train and mentor the next generation of culinary professionals through education, workforce development, and community outreach. Her work with Atlanta chef collectives, food security initiatives, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden has made her an important part of the city’s culinary community. From unexpected wine selections to conversations about flavor, hospitality, and Atlanta food culture, this episode captures the fun and spontaneity of a live audience experience. Whether you’re deep in the wine world or just love good food and good conversation, Episode 177 offers entertaining moments, surprising pairings, and a celebration of Atlanta’s vibrant culinary scene.SOMMELIERSEric Palmer, RNDC Distributing (@eric.palmr)Chris McLloyd, Tower Beer, Wine, & Spirits (@chrismclloyd)Jason Wilfore, The Perlant (@wilforejay)Jordan Traylor, The Chastain (@wandering_wino_)Peter Poulos, My Friend’s Bottle Shop (@therealchampagnepete)JUDGING PANELToni Williams, Blasian Bon Vivant (@blasianbonvivant)Dan Whalen, The Food in My Beard (@tfimb)Georgina Castellucci-Whalen, Consultant & Speaker (atl_georgina)Recorded May 1, 2026 with a live audience at The Perlant in Atlanta, GA-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

Episode 176 takes us live to The Oenophile Institute for an engaging audience conversation with winemaker Matt Taylor, a third-generation Sonoma County native whose thoughtful approach to farming and winemaking has made him one of California’s most compelling voices in small-production wine. Known for crafting wines across several labels and portfolios, Matt shares how his deep connection to the Sonoma Coast AVA continues to shape his philosophy in the cellar that is rooted in biodynamic farming, minimal intervention, and allowing the vineyard to speak for itself as naturally as possible. Throughout the conversation, we explore Matt’s diverse winemaking journey, from harvests and experiences in Argentina, Bordeaux, and New Zealand, to the unique energy he brings back home to California. We also uncover fascinating Napa Valley history connected to his Ink Grade project on Howell Mountain while discussing mountain viticulture, heritage vineyards, and the evolving identity of California wine. And because no live audience episode is complete without a few surprises, the night also ventures into the world of wine and hip hop pairings thanks to a special audience guest who specializes in connecting music, culture, and wine in unexpected ways. From farming philosophies to global winemaking experiences to soundtrack-worthy pairings, this episode is a vibrant look at the people, stories, and creativity shaping modern California wine.Recorded April 16, 2026 with a live audience at The Oenophile Institute in Smyrna, GA-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions

Step into the minds of sommeliers and wine professionals to discover what really happens when they sit down to identify wines in a blind tasting. In Episode 175, recorded live at Vino Venue, we bring together a panel of seasoned blind tasters who are veterans of Atlanta’s annual “Somm Smackdown” blind tasting competition. This conversation unpacks the art, intuition, and discipline behind identifying an unknown wine with nothing but your senses. What started as a question from someone who attended the competition as a spectator in the past – “how do you even train your palate to do this?” - evolves into an energetic, deeply insightful conversation filled with real-world strategies, personal stories, and the occasional myth-busting moment. As bonus dialogue and to provide full context for this discussion, we kick things off with Sommelier Ryan Mullins, the first-ever Somm Smackdown Champion, who shares the history and evolution of this competition along with some of his own philosophies for why he continues the pursuit of refining these skills. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned industry professional, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of wine’s most fascinating and humbling challenges. You can visit www.vinovenue.com for a list of all the past Somm Smackdown Champions as well as to discover information about their retail shop and full calendar of upcoming events. FEATURING:Ryan Mullins, WinebowPepe Fundora, Casa NuovaBriana Pope-Pettis, Court of Master SommeliersJoe Herrig, Georgia CrownBrian White, Epicurean AtlantaEmily Mendyka, Vino VenueRecorded April 13, 2026 with a live audience at Vino Venue in Dunwoody, GA-----------------*** Check out our ⁠⁠MERCH SHOP⁠⁠ to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions