What Makes Okanagan Valley Wine So Different w/ Katie Truscott (Part 1)

Ep 142What makes wine from the Okanagan Valley so different from anywhere else?In today’s episode I’m chatting with Katie Truscott from 1 Mill Road where we explore her journey into wine. It began unexpectedly with Chenin Blanc in South Africa and evolved into building a small, family-run winery in the heart of Naramata, British Columbia, Canada with her life (and business) partner, Ben. Katie shares her unconventional path into the wine world, from early curiosity and formal wine education to eventually producing wine full time in the Okanagan Valley.Katie shares what defines the Okanagan Valley as a wine region. From long summer days and short growing seasons to the influence of a massive glacial lake, this episode breaks down how geography and climate shape what grows where. You’ll hear why Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive in certain parts of the valley and how site selection plays a critical role in wine style.Katie also addresses the realities of farming and winemaking in this region, including extreme cold events, wildfire risk, and unpredictable yields. She also explains why most Canadian wines never leave British Columbia and what it will take for Okanagan Valley wines to gain broader recognition.So, if you are ready to learn what makes the Okanagan Valley so special and unique then this episode is for you!Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Pour Memory: Use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your purchase at www.pourmemory.com. I’d recommend a starter kit that includes a journal and 24 or 48 labels. Don’t forget to download the Pour Memory iOS app to track your bottles digitally too.Connect with KatiePersonal Instagram - @katies.wine.lifeWinery Instagram - @1millroadWebsite - https://www.1millroad.ca/Episode Highlights:Falling in love with wine through Chenin BlancA nontraditional path into the wine industryWhat defines the Okanagan Valley as a wine regionWhy Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive thereThe impact of long summer days and short growing seasonsHow extreme cold and wildfires affect vineyardsWhy most Canadian wine stays in CanadaWhat it takes for Okanagan wines to reach global marketsWhat 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 141What if the most common belief about wine headaches is actually one of the biggest myths in the entire wine world?This is the first episode in a new mini series where I unpack some of the biggest wine myths and separate fact from fiction. In this episode, I’m breaking down the long-standing assumption that sulfites in wine cause headaches and uncover why this claim doesn’t hold up. You’ll learn where the belief started, why the “contains sulfites” label leads so many people astray, and what science says about sulfite sensitivity.I also get into the real reasons you might be getting headaches from wine, including factors most drinkers never think about. Plus, I dive into how sulfites naturally form during winemaking, why winemakers add them, and how they help protect wine from oxidation and bacterial spoilage. As well as the surprising truth about sulfite levels in wine compared to foods like dried apricots and frozen potatoes.If you’ve ever blamed sulfites for a headache, felt confused about natural or organic wines, or wondered what’s actually causing reactions when you drink wine, this episode is for you!Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Pour Memory: Use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your purchase at pourmemory.com. I’d recommend a starter kit that includes a journal and 24 or 48 labels. Don’t forget to download the Pour Memory iOS app to track your bottles digitally too.Episode Highlights:Why sulfites appear on wine labelsHow rare true sulfite sensitivities actually areWhy all wines naturally contain sulfitesWhat sulfites do in winemaking (oxidation + bacteria control)Foods with far higher sulfite levels than wineWhy red wines often have fewer sulfites than white winesReal reasons people get wine headachesHow tannins, sugar, alcohol, and histamines play a roleTruth about natural, organic, and “clean” wine claimsWhy natural and organic wines still contain sulfitesWhat 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 140Being pregnant forced me into a real-world test of non-alcoholic wine, and the results were not what you might expect.When I announced I was pregnant, the constant question that followed once wine was off the table was: are there any good non-alcoholic wine options? That curiosity turned into a deep dive for me where I tasted more than 40 non-alcoholic wines, all while continuing to taste traditional wine for comparison.You’ll hear an honest breakdown of why, in my opinion, non-alcoholic wine does not taste like wine, how alcohol-removed wine differs from wine alternatives, and why expectations matter so much when approaching this category. At the end I share six non-alcoholic wines that are genuinely enjoyable, plus where to find them if you are navigating pregnancy, sobriety or simply looking to cut back.So if you are curious about non-alcoholic wine and want an honest take, this episode will help you know what to reach for and what to skip.Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!6 Non-Alcoholic Wines I RecommendDr. Lo Riesling - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/dr-lo-rieslingSea Monster Tidal Wave White - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/sea-monster-tidal-wave-white-non-alcoholic-wineJoyus Sparkling Wine - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/joyus-nonalcoholic-sparkling-wineDomaine EdeM N.0 Sparkling Rosé - https://www.cheekyanddry.com/products/n-0-rose-e-de-m Heinz Wagner Black Forest NA Bubbles - https://tupetzwine.com/product/non-alc-bubbles/ (use code CORKFIZZ15 to save 15% off 3 or more bottles)Woody’s Sparkling Rosé - https://thezeroproof.com/products/woodys-sparkling-rose ResourcesThe Quest for Good Non-Alcoholic Wine - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/the-quest-for-good-non-alcoholic-wineThe Zero Proof - https://thezeroproof.com/Tupetz Wine - https://tupetzwine.com/Non-Alcoholic Wine (Let’s Talk About That) - Episode 33Cheeky & Dry- https://www.cheekyanddry.com/Why German Wine Goes Beyond Sweet RieslingWhat 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 139Would you believe me if I said one of the most soulful and historic wine regions in France is also the one most people barely know anything about?This conversation, with Ioana from Princess & Bear Wine, goes deeper into the French regions of Languedoc and Roussillon through the perspective of someone who’s actually walked the vineyards, met the winemakers, and watched small family estates bring these wines to life. You’ll hear how high elevation sites, biodynamic farming, volcanic soils, and centuries of tradition all come together to create wines that are expressive, textured, and full of character.From tiny domaines run by women to unexpected whites, reds, and sparkling wines, this episode shines a light on producers you won’t normally find at stores and the bottles that define this part of Southern France. You’ll also get three standout recommendations if you’re just starting to explore the region.If you're curious about organic French wine, lesser known varietals, or even planning a future wine trip, you’ll want to listen in as we explore a region that deserves far more attention.If you missed part 1 of my conversation with Ioana go back to episode 138 to listen in!Use code BONJOUR and receive 10% off your online purchase at www.theprincessandthebear.com.If you are in Seattle mention that you are a Cork & Fizz podcast listener and receive a complimentary tasting when you visit The Princess and Bear tasting room in January and February 2026. To make a reservation for the tasting room call, email at [email protected] or you can make one on the website.Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Connect with Ioana:Website: https://www.theprincessandthebear.com/Episode Highlights:Small, family run wineries shaping Languedoc and RoussillonWomen winemakers and biodynamic farming practicesHow elevation and unique soils influence flavorCigar shaped barrels and what they do to white winesKey differences between Languedoc and Roussillon3 must try wines to start exploring the regionBehind the scenes of the annual club tripVisiting tiny domaines and exclusive cellar experiencesWhy the region still feels raw, genuine, and soulfulThe long term vision for sharing these wines in the U.S.What 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 138What if one of the oldest wine regions in the world is also the one most wine lovers overlook?This conversation with Ioana Bucur, new co-owner of Princess and Bear Wines, dives deep into the heart of Languedoc and Roussillon, the southern French wine regions known for authenticity, history, and an unmatched sense of place. You’ll hear how centuries of tradition, diverse terroir, and small artisanal domaines shape wines that are vibrant, expressive, and surprisingly affordable.From mountain vineyards and Mediterranean breezes to volcanic soils and female winemakers, this episode is a journey through the people, land, and stories that make these wines so unforgettable. Whether you love crisp whites, bold reds, or sparkling wines, this region has it all and then some.If you’ve been wanting to explore new wine regions or step outside your comfort zone, this is the perfect place to start!And don’t miss next week's episode where I’m back with another conversation with Ioana! Use code BONJOUR and receive 10% off your online purchase at www.theprincessandthebear.com.And if you are in the Seattle area, mention that you are a Cork & Fizz podcast listener and receive a complimentary tasting when you visit the Princess and Bear tasting room in January and February 2026. To make a reservation for the tasting room call, email at [email protected] or you can make one on the website.Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Connect with Ioana:Website: https://www.theprincessandthebear.com/Episode Highlights:Childhood memories that shaped a lifelong connection to wineHow Princess and Bear Wines beganWhat makes Languedoc-Roussillon authentic and overlookedClimate and terroir factors that keep wines fresh in a warm regionWhy organic and biodynamic farming thrive hereLimoux as the birthplace of traditional sparkling wineStandout white wine styles, from crisp and mineral to complex and savoryHow volcanic soils and fossils influence flavorWhy trying unfamiliar wines expands your palateWhat to expect from the region’s red wines, from juicy to bold and complexThe traditional-method sparkling wines of Limoux and their blendsWhat 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 137If you're ready to feel more confident about wine but have no idea where to start, this episode breaks the entire process down into five simple steps.You’ll learn my simple five step framework that makes learning about wine feel doable and not overwhelming. From building a consistent tasting habit to knowing which basics actually matter, this roadmap gives you an easy way to try new wines with more intention and a lot less second-guessing.You’ll also hear practical ideas for comparison tastings, finding the right books and classes, what to do at your local wine shop, and how to experiment with friends without making it complicated. And if you’re setting wine goals (yes, that’s a thing), this episode will help you choose ones you’ll actually stick with.So, if you’re ready to feel more confident about what’s in your glass, this is where your wine journey really begins!Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Resources: My 4-Step Wine Tasting Method - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-1How to Start Your Own Wine Club Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p35/diy-wine-tasting-club-downloadable-kit.htmlGarden Party Done-For-You Wine Tasting Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p46/garden-party-dfy-wine-tasting-party-kit.htmlWine & Cheese Pairing Done-For-You Tasting Party Kit - https://www.corkandfizz.com/store/p45/wine-and-cheese-dfy-tasting-party-kit.htmlEpisode Highlights:How to build a consistent wine habitCreating a simple rating system for every bottleTrying one new wine each month or weekWhy becoming a regular at a local wine shop mattersTools and apps that help track what you tasteThe core wine basics every beginner should learnRecommended books, podcasts, and classesThe four step tasting method and where to learn itHow to explore new wines with intentionDoing comparison tastings at homeTools that keep wine fresh longerHosting casual wine nights with friendsEasy wine goals to set What 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 136Staring at a wall of wine and wishing someone would just hand you a curated list of bottles actually worth drinking?In this episode I’m sharing my 12 standout wines from 2025 in honor of the 12 days of Christmas. Wines from Washington Chardonnay to Idaho Mourvedre to canned Albariño, Soave from Italy, and a wild, nutty Vin Jaune from France. You’ll hear why each bottle earned a spot on the list, how it tastes, and the stories and memories tied to each one, including travel moments, family visits, and retreat highlights.You’ll also learn why mixed oak and stainless aging affects Chardonnay, why Soave is such a reliable go-to at the grocery store, what makes orange wine and Pet Nat so distinctive, and how to think about “funky” wines like Vin Jaune or Condrieu without feeling intimidated. So, whether you’re hunting for a weeknight bottle, a Trader Joe’s steal, or something special to share with friends, this episode is a ready-made shopping list for any wine drinker!Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Wines Mentioned in this Episode:Kinhaven 2023 Chardonnay2020 Siegloch Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)2021 Telaya Wine Co. MourvèdreMaker Wine Albariño (Camins 2 Dreams)Clos du Gravillas 2020 À Fleur de Peau Vin Blanc de MacerationCasaponte Soave ClassicoCecilia Beretta Valpolicella Ripasso SuperioreDomaine Baud Generation 9 Chateau Chalon2023 Pieropan Soave Clasico2024 Grosgrain Sémillon Pet Nat2021 Yves Cuilleron La Petite Cote CondrieuRaventos i Blanc | Blanc de Blancs 2021Resources:Ep 40 - What Sets Camins 2 Dreams Apart From Other WineriesEp 68 - A Family Legacy with Spanish Winemaker Pepe RaventosEp 69 - Exploring Spanish Sparkling Wine with Pepe Raventos: Breaking Away From CavaEp 122 - Why German Wine Goes Beyond Sweet Riesling with Lisa TupetzEp 123 - Sekt: Germany’s Sparkling Wine You Need to Know with Lisa TupetzWhat 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 135What if the easiest way to pick better wine has been sitting on the bottle this whole time?Learning how to read a wine label doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In my conversation with Marie, she breaks down her approachable, beginner-friendly system that she teaches in her new book “How to Read a Wine Label.” It’s a method built around three core concepts that can help anyone predict how a wine will taste before ever pulling the cork. She explains how to spot Old World vs. New World styles, how climate affects flavor, and why grape skin thickness matters more than you think.You’ll also hear why she intentionally kept the book short, what she chose to leave out (and why), and how she hopes this knowledge empowers people to move beyond choosing wine by the “cute label.” This episode is full of simple, repeatable tips that make wine shopping far less intimidating, so that the next time you are staring at a wall of wine, you’ll actually know what you are looking for.And if you missed last week’s episode, go back and listen to part 1 of my chat with Marie. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!Last Bottle: 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 MarieInstagram - @slikwinesMarie’s Book - How to Read a Wine LabelWebsite - https://www.slikwines.com/Episode Highlights:Why so many people choose wine based on the labelThe three concepts that instantly help you predict taste (Old World vs. New World, climate, grape skin thickness)How to spot meaningful info on a label vs. marketing tacticsWhy the book focuses only on what beginners actually needHow repeated core concepts build confidence when shopping for wineWhat Marie hopes to change about the way people choose wine bottlesWhy aged wines aren’t automatically “better”What 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 134What if blind tasting isn’t actually about guessing the wine at all but about learning to trust your palate?In this conversation, author, sommelier, and content creator Marie Cheslik shares an unfiltered look at blind tasting, wine education, and the confidence-building process behind learning what you like. She explains the original purpose of blind tasting, why it’s rooted in regional typicity, and how she now uses the same framework to help everyday drinkers feel less intimidated and more empowered.You’ll hear Marie talk about the tension between subjective tasting and objective correctness, why some tasting notes really are more “right” than others, and how comparing wines side-by-side teaches people far more than memorizing facts ever will. She also opens up about balancing a creative business with the stability of her nursing career, the myth of “going all in,” and the hard lesson she learned about time investment not guaranteeing growth.If you’ve ever felt uncertain about how to describe wine, confused about what you’re “supposed” to taste, or intimidated by blind tasting, tune into this episode where you’ll get the  clarity, context, and permission you’ve been hoping for!And don’t miss next week's episode which is part 2 of my chat with Marie where we dig into her book How to Read a Wine Label. Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35!Connect with MarieInstagram - @slikwinesMarie’s Book - How to Read a Wine LabelWebsite - https://www.slikwines.com/Episode Highlights:How Marie discovered wine through restaurant workStarting Slick Wines during Covid and growing through virtual eventsWhy she still works as a registered nurseThe myth of “going all in” on your businessWhat blind tasting is actually designed to teachUnderstanding typicity and classic wine markersThe balance between subjective and objective tasting notesUsing side-by-side tastings to build confidenceOld World vs New World Chardonnay flavor differencesWhy storytelling connects better than soil talkWhat 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 133What if one of wine’s most recognizable symbols, the oak barrel, was never meant to be used for aging wine at all?In this episode, we’re diving into the history and science of oak in winemaking. From the Roman Empire’s accidental discovery of oak barrels to how modern winemakers use them intentionally today, you’ll learn why oak has become one of the most powerful tools for shaping a wine’s flavor, texture, and aroma.We’ll break down what really happens inside the barrel, from how oxygen softens tannins to the compounds that add notes of vanilla, spice, and caramel. You’ll also discover the truth behind that “buttery” flavor in Chardonnay and why it’s not actually coming from the oak itself.Finally, we’ll explore the different types of oak used around the world, what makes French, American, and Hungarian barrels unique, and the rise of sustainable alternatives like oak chips and staves. If you’ve ever wondered how oak barrels influence what’s in your glass or what winemakers mean when they say a wine was “oaked”, this episode is for you!Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!VoChill: Go to vochill.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 15% off your order!Wine Wash Co: Go to winewashco.com and use code CORK for 20% off your order, plus free U.S. shipping on orders over $35!Episode Highlights:How oak barrels were first used by the RomansThe key reasons winemakers choose oak today: flavor, texture, and fermentation environmentThe truth about “buttery” wines and malolactic fermentationThe process of crafting an oak barrel, from staves to toastingDifferences between French, American, and Hungarian oakCost and sustainability factors in oak barrel useWhy new vs. old oak matters for flavorOak alternatives: chips, cubes, and stavesThe meaning of “the angel’s share” in winemakingHow winemakers balance tradition with innovationWhat 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]