The People & Stories Behind Your Wine Glass w/ Heather Daenitz (Part 1)

Ep 155Most people think they know German wine, but they’re only seeing a small part of it.If you immediately think of sweet Riesling or those super cheap bottles at the grocery store when you think of German wine, you’re not alone. That’s what most people think. But it’s not the full picture and, honestly, it’s why so many really good wines get overlooked.In this episode, I’m sitting down again with Lisa Tupetz, importer and founder of Tupetz Wine Connection, along with German winemaker Max from Weingut Greiner, and we’re talking about what’s actually happening with German wine right now. We talk about how winemaking has changed over time, why this lesser-known region in the Black Forest is worth paying attention to, and what makes these wines different from what you might expect. We also get into how wine makes it from a small winery in Germany all the way to a shop or restaurant here in the US, because it’s not nearly as simple as you’d think.You’ll walk away with a much better understanding of what to look for, what’s worth trying, and why German wine deserves a spot on your radar.If you’ve been skipping over German wine or assuming it’s all the same, this might change that.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, First Bottle Wines, for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.firstbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Connect with Lisa:Website - www.tupetzwine.com Instagram - @tupetzwineConnect with Max:Website: weingut-greiner.comEpisode Highlights:How winemaking evolves from first vintage to todayWhy the Black Forest region creates unique winesHow forests impact vineyard climate and wine styleThe real process of importing wine into the USWhy small producers struggle to get distributionHow German wine perception is shifting in the USThe difference between sweet and dry Riesling demandWhat “GG” wines actually mean on a labelWhat it actually takes to build a wine import businessWhy distribution is one of the biggest challenges in wineWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 154You’ve probably seen “biodynamic” on a wine label and assumed it’s just another marketing term.Most people do. It sounds complicated, a little vague, and honestly it’s easy to ignore. But what’s actually happening in biodynamic vineyards has a direct impact on how wine tastes, how it evolves, and why some wines feel more alive in the glass than others.In this episode, I’m sitting down with Lisa Tupetz, founder of Tupetz Wine Connection, along with German winemaker Max from Weingut Greiner, and we break down why biodynamic wine isn’t just a label and what it actually changes in the glass. You’ll hear how soil health, farming decisions, and even things like animals in the vineyard all play a role in the final wine and why the real work of great wine happens in the vineyard, not the cellar. Plus, why some winemakers are willing to take on more risk to farm this way and what they believe it does differently compared to organic practices.We also get into how these wines are being received in the US, why more drinkers are looking beyond familiar grape varieties, and what to pay attention to the next time you see “biodynamic” on a bottle.So if you’ve ever wondered whether biodynamic wine actually matters or if it’s just another trend, this episode will change how you think about what actually determines the quality of the wine in your glass.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bubbles, for sponsoring this episode. Download the Last Bubbles app or go to www.lastbubbles.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Connect with Lisa:Website - www.tupetzwine.com Instagram - @tupetzwineConnect with Max:Website: weingut-greiner.comEpisode Highlights:What biodynamic wine actually meansThe difference between organic and biodynamicHow soil health impacts wine qualityWhy biodynamic wines taste more “alive”The role of animals and natural systems in vineyardsHow US consumers are responding to biodynamic winesWhy lesser-known grape varieties are gaining popularityWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 153Do you really need a different wine glass for every single varietal you drink?In this Mythbusters episode, I’m tackling the idea that you need a Pinot Noir glass, a Cabernet glass, a Riesling glass, and basically an entire cabinet dedicated to stemware. Yes, glass shape does matter. There is actual science behind how aroma travels and how the bowl affects flavor. But no, you do not need one glass per varietal.In this episode, I break down what actually makes a difference, why bowl shape matters more than having a separate glass for every grape, and the simple way to think about choosing a glass. I’ll walk you through the three types of glasses that will cover almost everything you drink, from Bordeaux and Burgundy styles to narrower Riesling glasses and when a universal wine glass makes sense.So if you’ve ever wondered whether you’re using the “right” wine glass and want to cut through the marketing to what actually matters, this episode is for you.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bubbles, for sponsoring this episode. Download the Last Bubbles app or go to www.lastbubbles.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Resources:Elevating Everyday Wine with Hand-Blown Glasvin Wine Glasses w/ David Kong - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-43Episode Highlights:The real science behind wine glass shapeWhy bowl size mattersStem vs stemless truthThe 3 wine glasses that cover everythingWhen to use a universal wine glassWhy you shouldn’t overfill your wine glassWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 152Sweet wine has been associated with having an unrefined palate or being a beginner in the wine world. But that does not automatically mean you are a wine amateur if you like sweet wine.In this Mythbusters episode, we are setting the record straight. Sweet wine does not equal low quality. While there are plenty of mass produced sugary bottles out there, sweetness itself is just another attribute of wine, right alongside acidity, tannin, and body. When made with intention and quality grapes, sweet wine can be balanced, complex, and can even rank among the most expensive wines in the world.You will learn how noble rot works, why ice wine is so rare, how Port is fortified, and why balance between sugar and acidity is everything. From Sauternes in Bordeaux to Tokaji in Hungary, Vin Santo in Italy, Recioto della Valpolicella, Port, and Pedro Ximénez sherry, there are sweet wines being made all over the world that are high quality, traditional, and in many cases some of the most sought after bottles out there. You will also hear why sweet wines are incredible with salty, spicy, and even funky cheeses.So if you have ever felt like ordering a sweet wine makes you look like a beginner, this episode is for you.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bubbles, for sponsoring this episode. Download the Last Bubbles app or go to www.lastbubbles.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Resources:12 Wines I’d Recommend to Any Curious Wine Drinker - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-136Episode Highlights:Where the sweet wine stereotype beganWhy sweetness is just another wine attributeHow noble rot concentrates flavorWhy Sauternes can cost thousandsHow true ice wine is made and why it is rareThe difference between Amarone and ReciotoHow Port is fortified and why it is strongWhy sweet wines pair well with salty and spicy foodsHow sugar helps wine ageWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 151What if the simplest way to support your favorite winery takes less than five minutes?In part two of our conversation, Heather Daenitz shares how photography, storytelling, and consumer engagement can completely shift the way people experience wine. From highlighting vineyard workers to encouraging thoughtful reviews and rethinking how you shop at your local wine store, she explains how small actions like tagging a winery or naming a tasting room host can have a real impact behind the scenes.And because we are both pregnant while recording this episode we dig into the topic of non alcoholic wine, sober curiosity, and whether still wine without alcohol can ever truly match the complexity of the original. Heather shares why Germany is ahead when it comes to non-alcoholic wine, why aromatic varieties like Riesling may be key, and what needs to change in the industry to make non-alcoholic wine better.So if you’ve ever wondered how much power wine lovers really have and what role you play in the industry’s future, this episode will change how you see it.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bubbles, for sponsoring this episode. Download the Last Bubbles app or go to www.lastbubbles.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Connect with Heather:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/craftandclusterThe Wine Marketing Field Guide - https://www.winemarketingfieldguide.com/Pour Memories Podcast - https://www.pourmemories.com/Episode Highlights:Why reviews matter more than you thinkHow tagging wineries helps them growThe role of user generated contentThe truth about non alcoholic wineWhy Germany is ahead in NA (non-alcoholic) wine productionAromatic grapes and NA potentialSupporting sober curious consumersHow to shop smarter at wine storesWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 150What does it really look like behind those beautiful wine photos you see online?In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Daenitz, a wine industry photographer and marketing strategist based in Santa Barbara wine country. Heather shares how she went from studying viticulture and working in vineyard management to launching her business, Craft & Cluster, where she now helps small wineries connect with their audiences through authentic behind-the-scenes photography and marketing strategies.Heather shares what harvest actually feels like at 3 a.m., why grapes are picked at night, and the reality behind those dreamy sunrise vineyard shots. She also dives into why she chooses to work with small wineries, what consumers often misunderstand about wine pricing, and how many hands touch the wine before it reaches your glass.So, if you are ready to see your glass of wine with a little more context and a lot more appreciation then this episode is for you.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bottle, for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Connect with Heather:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/craftandclusterThe Wine Marketing Field Guide - https://www.winemarketingfieldguide.com/Pour Memories Podcast - https://www.pourmemories.com/Episode Highlights:How Heather found her way into wineFrom vineyard work to wine photographyHow Craft and Cluster beganWhy small wineries need marketing supportWhat harvest at 3 a.m. really looks likeWhy grapes are picked at nightThe reality behind romantic wine photosThe people behind every bottleWhy wine costs what it doesWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 149What if the red-with-meat, white-with-fish rule isn’t actually a rule at all?In this Mythbusters episode, I’m sharing where the red-with-meat, white-with-fish idea came from and why it’s more of a simplification than a rule. It worked when wine styles were more predictable, but that’s just not the case anymore.Instead of color-coding your pairings, this episode walks you through what actually matters: matching the weight and richness of the wine to the weight and richness of the dish. You’ll hear real examples, from grilled salmon with mushroom sauce to filet mignon with chimichurri, and learn why sauce and your cooking method can matter just as much as the protein itself.So, if you are ready to feel more confident stepping outside the old red wine vs white wine pairing mindset and pairing wine in a way that actually makes sense for what’s on your plate then this episode is for you.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bottle, for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Resources: Ep 11: Wine and food pairing 101: My Signature 2-step process - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-11Episode Highlights:Where the red wine with meat rule came fromWhy color is not the best pairing guideMatching weight and body in food and wineWhy sauce matters more than you think for your wine selectionPairing red wine with salmonPairing white wine with steakWhy enjoyment always comes firstWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 148Screw caps have a bad reputation in the wine world, but that reputation is mostly undeserved!In this episode of my wine mythbusters mini-series I break down the myth that screw caps automatically mean cheap wine and explain where that belief came from in the first place. From the romance of popping a cork to the belief that wine needs it to age, this episode breaks down why cork became the gold standard and why that thinking is outdated.You’ll learn how cork and screw caps actually differ when it comes to oxygen exposure, aging potential, and consistency. And I dive into wine faults like cork taint, why regions like New Zealand and Australia led the screw cap shift, and how modern screw cap technology gives winemakers more control than ever.So, if you have ever avoided a bottle of wine simply because it had a screw cap, this episode will help you stop judging a wine bottle by its cap and focus on what actually matters.Thank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bottle, for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Episode Highlights:Why screw caps got a bad reputationWhere the cheap wine myth startedCork vs screw cap aging differencesWhat cork taint really isWhy winemakers prefer screw capsHow screw caps control oxygenWhat research shows about wine agingWhen screw caps make more senseWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 147Most wine drinkers assume the wines they see are the only wines that exist, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.In part two of my conversation with Unpinned Wine Club founder, Ashwin Muthiah, he offers insight into how wine discovery actually works, from the systems that favor familiarity to the biases that keep lesser known grapes out of view.He shares how his own lived experience in wine regions across Europe shaped a different approach to curation, one rooted in storytelling, balance, and drinkability. He uses this unique approach in selecting wines for his monthly club shipment.We also dive into what natural wine really means, why it gained a reputation for being “funky,” and how Ashwin thinks about balancing experimentation with drinkability. Along the way, he highlights rare and underrepresented grapes from places like Greece, Hungary, and Georgia, and explains why pronunciation, pricing, and perception all play a role in what we choose to drink.If you’ve ever felt boxed into the same familiar wines, this episode offers a clearer look at why that happens and what’s really shaping wine discovery.Skip the waitlist to join the UnPINNED Wine Club with this exclusive link just for pod listeners - https://unpinnedwineclub.com/pages/access-upwcqrzThank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bottle, for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Connect with AshwinWebsite - https://unpinnedwineclub.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/unpinnedwine/ Grapes mentioned by AshwinXinomavro (Greece)Juhfark, Furmint (Hungary)Kisi (Georgia)Episode Highlights:Wine discovery is shaped by access, not just tasteHow wine club themes are curatedForgotten and underrepresented grape varietiesNatural wine vs flawed wineWhy pronunciation affects buying decisionsHow comparison tastings lower the risk of trying new winesExamples of grapes from Greece, Hungary, and GeorgiaWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]

Ep 146You probably learned about wine the same way most people do. A handful of regions, the same familiar grapes, and a lot of unspoken rules about what matters and what does not.In this episode, Ashwin Muthiah challenges that narrow view and asks a bigger question. What if the wine world has been leaving out entire regions, cultures, and histories all along? He shares how travel shaped his curiosity, why Georgia (the country not the state) is essential to understanding wine’s origins, and how formal wine education often skips over more than it explains.We also dig into why only a small number of grapes dominate store shelves, how thousands of others are quietly disappearing, and what pretension and gatekeeping have to do with the way we drink today. Ashwin breaks down how branding, consumer habits, and industry power shape what ends up in your glass.You will also hear how his curiosity and years of travel eventually led him to create a wine club focused on sharing wines most people never get the chance to try. This conversation is less about telling you what to drink and more about noticing what has been missing all along. Throughout the conversation, Ashwin reframes wine as culture, history, and agriculture rather than just a consumer product.If you are tired of defaulting to the same bottles and want to understand what the wine world is not talking about, this episode is a must listen! It will change how you think about wine.Skip the waitlist to join Ashwin’s UnPINNED Wine Club with this exclusive link just for pod listeners - https://unpinnedwineclub.com/pages/access-upwcqrzThank you to our exclusive sponsor, Last Bottle, for sponsoring this episode. Go to www.lastbottlewines.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 10% off your order! (And be sure to sign up for their mailing list so you never miss a bottle!)Connect with AshwinWebsite - https://unpinnedwineclub.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/unpinnedwine/ Episode Highlights:Why wine education skips entire regionsGeorgia’s role in wine historyHow only a few grapes dominate the marketWhat happens when grape varieties disappearPretension and gatekeeping in wine cultureWhy grocery store wine limits choiceThe origin of Unpinned Wine ClubReal wine vs manufactured wineHow younger drinkers are changing wineWhy curiosity matters more than credentialsWhat did you think of the episode? Text me!Support the showDon't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!  - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide Connect with me:Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/Email - [email protected]