From Journalist to Winemaker: Courtney Humiston’s Journey to California Sparkling Wine

SummaryIn this inspiring episode, Courtney Humiston uncorks her unconventional path from journalist to sommelier to sparkling winemaker. She shares how her love for storytelling and sense of place led her to craft Delphinium—a California Crémant that’s as elegant as it is expressive of the Golden State’s terroir. Courtney dives into the mentorships that shaped her, her food pairing philosophy, and why sparkling wine deserves a permanent spot at the table. Tune in for a bubbly chat about reinvention, resilience, and the bright future of California fizz. Takeaways – Courtney’s wine journey began in St. Helena, Napa Valley, where curiosity trumped convention. – She champions learning from wine, not judging it—letting the glass be your teacher. – Her sommelier days sparked a deep love for Champagne, but she’s carving out a California identity. – Inspired by Crémant de Loire, Courtney created Delphinium: a California Crémant with its own voice. – Crafted with Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, Delphinium is rooted in organic farming and native fermentation. – For Courtney, storytelling is as essential as terroir in every bottle. – She’s an advocate for more producers diving into quality sparkling wine. – The future of California bubbles? Collaborative, creative, and uniquely homegrown. Wine Tasted2023 Delphinium California Crémant Find out more about Courtney's wine journey and her sparkling wine HEREJoin Laurie on July 31st at 6PM in Easton, MD for La Dolce Vita" Sip & Savor the Tastes of Italy. Get Details & Tickets CLICK HERESupport the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

SummaryIn this special Bourdain Day episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster revisits a rare and unforgettable conversation with the late Anthony Bourdain. Recorded during his tour with Balvenie Scotch—a journey that celebrated master craftsmen across the country—Bourdain opens up about the intersection of food, storytelling, and authenticity.Raw, real, and unapologetically Bourdain, this episode is a tribute to the man who inspired the world to taste more, travel deeper, and question everything. Pour a glass, raise it high, and join us in honoring the legacy of a legend.TakeawaysThe importance of celebrating craftsmanship in food and drink.Old school methods of production are becoming rare.Culinary exploration can lead to unexpected adventures.Stories behind food and drink create deeper connections.Supporting artisans helps preserve traditional methods.Exploring new flavors can enhance life experiences.There’s still time to order The Wine Coach Club Summer Sipper Wine Pack with 4 wines perfect for your summer grilling for $80 with free shipping. Check it out & Order yours HERESupport the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

There's still time to order The Wine Coach Club Summer Sipper Wine Pack with 4 wines perfect for your summer grilling for $8-0 with free shipping. Check it out & Order yours HERESummaryWhat happens when a kid from Austria falls head over heels for wine and ends up running the show at one of New York’s top restaurants? You get Aldo Sohm—award-winning sommelier, wine director at the legendary Le Bernardin, and one of the most approachable experts in the biz. In this episode, Aldo shares how his culinary beginnings led him to the world of wine, where he found not just a career, but a calling. We talk about the power of wine to bring people together, the lessons Mother Nature dishes out to winemakers, and why staying humble is the secret ingredient to success in this business.We also sip through his personal passion project, Sohm & Kracher Wines, and geek out (in the best way) over Gruner Veltliner & Gelber Muskateller. Aldo busts a few wine myths (yes, Riesling and Chardonnay deserve better PR), gives his take on Gen Z’s wine vibes, and reminds us that great wine is about context, curiosity, and connection.Wines TastedSohm & Kracher 2017 Grüner Veltliner “Lion”Weingut Tement SAND & SCHIEFER Gelber MuskatellerVisit Aldo at Le Bernardin or the Aldo Sohm Wine Bar in NYC & Check out his book Wine Simple!Support the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

Order The Wine Coach Summer Sipper Wine Pack with 4 of her favorite wines for all your grilling favorites. Under $80 with free shipping these delicious wines will ship right to your door. Go to TheWineCoachClub.comLaurie will teach you all about these wines during her upcoming virtual tasting Red, White & Barbeque on June 125th at 7PM ET Find out more CLICK HERESummaryFrom angel whispers to rosé revolutions—Paul Chevalier, VP of Sales & Marketing at Château d’Esclans, joins us to uncork the story behind one of the world’s most iconic pink wines. We dive into his unexpected path into the wine world, how rosé rose to stardom, and why Whispering Angel stands out in a sea of pink. Paul shares insights on making wine more inclusive, pushing boundaries with winemaking techniques, and why rosé is no longer just a summer fling. We also chat perfect pairings and the magic of connecting generations, one glass at a time.Wines TastedChâteau d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rose Château d’Esclans Garrus RoseTakeawaysPaul Chevalier's journey into winemaking began in France at a young age.Whispering Angel has grown to be a leading rosé brand globally.The name 'Whispering Angel' was inspired by cherubs in a chapel.Rosé has evolved from a sweet reputation to a sophisticated choice.Inclusivity is key to attracting younger generations to wine.Whispering Angel pairs well with a variety of cuisines.The Garrus represents a new, innovative style of rosé that is bolder and age-worthySupport the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

SummaryOn this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie uncorks a story that’s anything but ordinary. Meet Sally, the powerhouse behind Château Georges 7 in Bordeaux, who swapped spreadsheets for soil and turned her corporate career into a bold new life among the vines. Sally dives into the essence of Bordeaux—especially the Merlot-forward magic of the right bank—and spills the tea (or wine) on lesser-known white blends that deserve more love. She also gets candid about bringing younger generations into the wine fold and shares straight-up wisdom for women ready to make their mark in the world of winemaking. Cheers to bold moves and better blends! TakeawaysSally swapped corporate life for the vineyard, building Château Georges 7 from scratchThe winery’s name reflects a blend of tradition, innovation, and a lucky numberLocated in Fronsac, the château is known for elegant, Merlot-driven winesHer white blends—Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon—deliver unexpected freshnessThe tasting room experience is tailored to each visitor, not one-size-fits-allAutonomy and purpose are the driving forces behind her second-act successHer advice to women: it’s never too late to follow your passion—especially if it involves wineCheck out Chateau George 7's Website HERE and find out more about Sally and her book Midlife Move HERESupport the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

SummaryIn this episode of The Sipping Point, we raise a glass to innovation with Ian Blessing, co-founder of All the Bitter. Ian shares his evolution from fine wine sommelier to trailblazer in the booming non-alcoholic beverage space. We dive into the essential role of bitters in mixology, explore the bold and nuanced flavors of his handcrafted, zero-proof bitters, and learn how his shop in Chico, California offers a one-of-a-kind tasting experience. Plus, Ian reveals how All the Bitter blends flavor with philanthropy, donating a portion of profits to support environmental causes. Whether you're sober-curious or a seasoned sipper, this episode is full of flavor and purpose. Check out All the Bitter online for more about his bitters CLICK HERETakeawaysIan Blessing transitioned from fine wine to non-alcoholic bitters.Bitters are essential for crafting sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails.All the Bitter offers a variety of flavors, including aromatic and New Orleans style bitters.The tasting room experience includes cocktail kits and a curated selection of non-alcoholic beverages.Bitters can enhance the flavor of drinks without added sugar.The company uses functional ingredients that promote digestive health.Support the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

Upcoming Events with LaurieJune 4th Wine Comedy Show at Turks Head WinesJune 7th Maryland Crafted VIP ExperienceJune 25th Red, White & BBQ Virtual TastingSummaryIn this sparkling episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster pops the cork on conversation with Teresa Heuzenroeder, a talented winemaker from Tasmania. Teresa uncorks her path into the world of wine, shines a light on what makes Tasmanian sparkling wines so special, and spills some behind-the-scenes secrets of crafting bubbly in a cool climate. The duo dives into the story of Jansz Winery, sipping through both non-vintage and vintage cuvées along with advice for aspiring winemakers—hint: bring passion and find a great mentor.TakeawaysTasmania's cool climate is ideal for sparkling wine production.Jansz winery focuses solely on sparkling wines.The non-vintage cuvée is fresh and fruit-driven.Climate challenges include managing cool temperatures and disease pressures.The 2025 vintage is expected to be high quality with good yields.The vintage cuvée showcases complexity and richness.Aspiring winemakers should seek mentorship and be passionate about wine.Wines TastedJansz Tasmania Premium Cuvee NVJansz Tasmania Vintage CuveeLearn more about Jansz and Teresa on there website HERESupport the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

Upcoming Events with LaurieJune 4th Wine Comedy Show at Turks Head WinesJune 7th Maryland Crafted VIP ExperienceJune 25th Red, White & BBQ Virtual TastingSummaryJoin us for a flavorful conversation with Julian and Mary of The Tasting House, where passion meets palate. They dive into their paths through the culinary and wine worlds, sharing stories, insights, and a few delicious secrets. From timeless pairings to adventurous flavor mashups, Julian and Mary reveal the art and science behind unforgettable food and wine experiences. Discover how they craft their menu with intention, why flavor balance matters, and how curiosity in the kitchen can lead to magic on the plate—and in the glass. TakeawaysJulian started his culinary journey at 14 by washing dishes.Mary transitioned from film to the wine industry after being inspired by the Netflix show A Chef's Table.Pairing food and wine is about knowing your ingredients and experimenting.The Tasting House offers a global menu with creative pairings.Experimentation is key in discovering successful pairings.Check out the Tasting House online for more about their Wine List, Tastings Menus and to make a reservation.Support the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

Upcoming Events with LaurieJune 4th Wine Comedy Show at Turks Head WinesJune 7th Maryland Crafted VIP ExperienceJune 25th Red, White & BBQ Virtual TastingSummaryIn this flavorful episode, Laurie sits down with the dynamic duo behind Bull and Goat Brewery to trace their hop-fueled evolution from garage brewers to masters of both beer and spirits. You'll hear how a hazy IPA helped put them on the map, why they dove into the world of whiskey and agave, and what’s brewing next. Plus, get the inside scoop on an upcoming event on June 7th at Maryland Crafted that blends craft beverages, local bites, and live music for a tasting experience you won’t want to miss. Cheers to chasing bold dreams—one pint (or pour) at a time. TakeawaysBull and Goat Brewery started in a small garage.The brewery is celebrating its 10th anniversary next year.They offer a variety of beers, including a popular hazy IPA.The brewery has expanded into distilling spirits, including whiskey.Their agave spirit is popular for margaritas.The upcoming Maryland Crafted event on June 7th will feature a VIP tasting experience.Join us for the VIP Experience as part of Maryland Crafted on June 7th in downtown Centreville!Support the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster

Upcoming Events with LaurieJune 4th Wine Comedy Show at Turks Head WinesJune 7th Maryland Crafted VIP ExperienceJune 25th Red, White & BBQ Virtual TastingSummaryIn this episode, Laurie Forster talks with William Weese, winemaker at Merriam Vineyards, to explore the deep roots of his winemaking philosophy. From his global journey to Sonoma’s rich terroir, William shares how family, sustainability, and a love for the land shape every bottle he creates. They dive into organic and biodynamic practices, the beauty of minimal intervention, and why Merlot is making a comeback. With reflections on Pinot Noir, sulfites, and the magic of small-lot production, this episode is a celebration of wine as both craft and connection — a story of taste, time, and terroir. Wines TastedMerriam Vineyards 2022 Danielle's Estate Fume BlancMerriam Vineyards 2022 Diana's Estate Pinot NoirMerriam Vineyards 2021 Windacre Vineyard MerlotTakeawaysTraveling globally enriched William's winemaking philosophy.Organic and biodynamic practices are essential at Merriam Vineyards.Sulfites are a natural part of the winemaking process.Biodynamics enhances the natural ecosystem of the vineyard.Merlot is making a strong comeback in the wine industry.Every vintage presents unique challenges and opportunities.Taste is the ultimate guide in determining grape readiness.Find out more about Merriam Vineyards and William Weese HERESupport the showSUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today! Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.Let's Stay Connected:Instagram @thewinecoachFacebook @winecoachTikTok @LaurieForster