The 12 Wines I’d Recommend to Any Curious Wine Drinker

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]

Ep 132Do you ever feel lost when people start throwing around fancy wine terms like “tannin” or “terroir”? You’re not alone.In this episode, we’re going back to the basics with 15 essential wine words that will instantly boost your confidence when talking about wine. You’ll learn how to describe what you’re tasting, from acidity to body, and finally understand what those mysterious words like “minerality,” “dry,” and “complex” actually mean.This is your chance to learn how to speak like a sommelier (aka a wine expert!)If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to describe what’s in your glass or want to understand what others mean when they talk about wine, this episode is the perfect place to start.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!Resources:What makes wine taste the way it does? Tannin, acidity and body - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-125The light, crisp French white wine you’re missing out on - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-75Episode Highlights:The difference between “variety” and “varietal” (and why even experts mix them up)What a “vintage” really tells you about your wineHow to identify acidity, body, tannin, and finishWhy “dry” doesn’t always mean what you think it doesUnderstanding terroir and mineralityHow to use words like “crisp,” “complex,” and “silky” to describe wineWhat “Lees,” “Brett,” and “mouthfeel” actually meanThe truth about when a wine is “tight” or “closed off”How to tell if your wine is ready to drink or needs time to open upWhat 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 131What happens when a winemaker challenges tradition, one barrel at a time?In this second part of my interview with South African winemaker Duncan Savage, he shares how he transformed his approach from crafting white wines at Cape Point Vineyards to creating expressive, terroir-driven reds under his own label. He shares how his time crafting white wines at Cape Point Vineyards shaped the philosophy he now brings to his expressive, terroir-driven reds under his own label.Duncan also takes us inside the evolution of South African winemaking. From shifting away from standardized Sauvignon Blanc styles to embracing authenticity, restraint, and place-driven wines that tell their own story. If you’ve ever wondered what makes the new wave of South African wines so distinctive, this episode offers a glimpse into that transformation.If you’ve curious how passion, patience, and a little rebellion can reshape an entire wine region, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!And don’t forget to go back to episode 130 and listen to the first part of my conversation with Duncan!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 Duncan:Website - https://broadbent.com/producers/savage-wines/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/savagewines/Episode Highlights:Transitioning from white to red winemakingShifting South African Sauvignon Blanc beyond the “Kiwi” styleHow barrel fermentation and oxidative techniques changed his perspectiveWhy Duncan applies a “white wine approach” to red winesThe importance of patience and texture in the winemaking processRedefining what “authentic South African wine” means todayWhat 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 130You may have heard of Napa and Bordeaux…but the next great wine region might just surprise you. Welcome to South Africa!In this episode, winemaker Duncan Savage joins from Cape Town to share his journey from head winemaker at Cape Point Vineyards to founder of Savage Wines, one of the most exciting and celebrated names in South Africa’s new wave movement.Duncan’s story is filled with humility, humor, and hard-won insight from falling in love with wine by accident to building a small but mighty urban winery in Cape Town’s Salt River district. You’ll hear how South Africa’s vineyards are shaped by wind, ocean, and innovation and why the region’s wines are finally getting the global recognition they deserve.He also breaks down why most South African producers lease rather than own their vineyards, how climate change is shifting harvests, and why collaboration, rather than competition, is fueling the country’s wine renaissance.If you’ve ever been curious about South African wine or wondered what makes these coastal wines so distinct, you’ll love this episode that dives into the stories, landscapes, and philosophies shaping one of the world’s most exciting wine regions.Don’t miss part 2 of my conversation with Duncan next week - episode 131!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!Connect with Duncan:Website - https://broadbent.com/producers/savage-wines/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/savagewines/Episode Highlights:Duncan’s path from Cape Point Vineyards to founding Savage WinesHow South Africa’s coastal climate shapes flavor and freshnessThe “new wave” winemakers redefining South African wineWhy most vineyards are leased, not ownedThe evolution of Chenin Blanc and Pinotage stylesCollaboration over competition in South Africa’s wine sceneClimate change and the country’s surprising advantageWhat 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 129Washington may be known for its big-name wineries, but some of the best bottles are coming from the small, family-run spots you’ve never heard of.In this episode, we’re exploring four boutique wineries that capture the creativity and community behind Washington wine. Discover how a chef’s background in flavor inspires the balanced, aromatic wines at Kinhaven Winery. Learn how Cedergreen Cellars pivoted from restaurant-only sales to a hands-on tasting experience, offering beautifully aged wines that deliver incredible value.We’ll also explore the organic vineyards and uncommon grapes defining Grosgrain Vineyards, then visit Ducleaux Cellars, where a husband-and-wife team turns personal stories into heartfelt blends. Plus, stay tuned for a few honorable mentions that deserve a spot on your next tasting itinerary.Whether you’re dreaming of a Walla Walla getaway or just want new favorite bottles to ship straight to your door, this episode will help you uncover the hidden gems of Washington wine country.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!Resources:Kinhaven Winery - https://kinhavenwinery.com/Cedergreen Cellars - https://www.cedergreencellars.com/Grosgrain Vineyards - https://grosgrainvineyards.com/Ducleaux Cellars - https://www.ducleauxcellars.com/Sama Cellars - https://samacellars.com/Lushington Wines - https://lushingtonwines.com/Michael Florentino Cellars - https://michaelflorentinocellars.com/Episode Highlights:The chef-inspired winemaking behind Kinhaven WineryAffordable aged wines and hidden value at Cedergreen CellarsUncommon grapes and organic farming at Grosgrain VineyardsThe heartfelt blends and family story of Ducleaux CellarsQuick shoutouts to Sama Sellers, Lushington Wines, and Michael FlorentinoWhat 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 128Would you believe that one of the world’s favorite red wines comes from one of the most temperamental grapes on earth?Today’s episode is a fan request and we’re taking a deep dive into Pinot Noir! This grape is known for being both a challenge to grow but also how it reflects where it’s grown. We’ll talk about where Pinot Noir got its start and how it’s now grown everywhere from Burgundy to Oregon. You'll discover why Pinot Noir is called the “heartbreak grape” and why winemakers everywhere continue to chase its perfection.We’ll explore the grape’s history, how it’s genetically linked to other famous varieties, what makes it thrive in cooler climates, and the major regions producing outstanding Pinot Noir today. You’ll also learn how oak, fermentation styles, and even your glass shape can change what you taste. So, whether you’re a red wine enthusiast or just starting your wine journey, this episode will deepen your appreciation for one of wine’s most captivating grapes.Don’t miss out on the other deep dives I’ve done on the following grapes - Chardonnay (Ep 6), Cabernet Franc (Ep 14), Chenin Blanc (Ep 21), Riesling (Ep 38), Barbera (Ep 45), Merlot (Ep 57), Sauvignon Blanc (Ep 104)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!Episode Highlights:The surprising history of Pinot NoirWhy it’s called the “heartbreak grape”How terroir shapes Pinot Noir’s flavorClones, mutations, and grape family tiesKey Pinot Noir regions in BurgundyOregon vs. California Pinot Noir stylesPinot Noir from Germany to New ZealandPinot Noir’s role in ChampagneOak aging and whole-cluster fermentationServing and aging tips for Pinot NoirGo-to food pairings for Pinot NoirWhat 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 127What if the future of wine wasn’t about choosing between tradition and technology, but finding a way to let both thrive together?In this episode, you’ll hear from John Tan, founder of CorkVision, an AI-powered copilot for wineries. After years in the tech world, John found himself in Napa Valley, blending his expertise with a deep passion for wine. The result? A platform designed to help wineries sell smarter, protect tradition, and connect more personally with customers.John shares how wineries are responding to AI, why data matters more than ever, and how technology can actually preserve, rather than replace, the artistry of winemaking. He also explains how AI can help wineries adapt to challenges like climate change while keeping human creativity at the heart of every bottle.So, if you’re curious about how tradition and technology can work together in the wine world and want to hear how AI may shape the future of winemaking without losing its artistry, this episode is for you.And don’t miss part 1 of my episode with John where we talk about his journey from tech to wine and explore how AI is transforming customer experiences and winery operations.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!BonChocolats: Go to bonchocolats.com to order some delicious artisan chocolate (that actually pairs well with wine)!Connect with JohnLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntan/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/corkvisionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/runfatboyrun7/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cork.vision/Website: https://www.corkvision.com/Resources: Txakoli: Exploring Spain’s Basque Country Signature WineEpisode Highlights:Why AI is a tool to support, not replace, winemakersHow wineries can use AI for climate change planning and long-term vineyard healthThe balance between science, tradition, and artistry in wineData privacy concerns (and why org-wide policies matter to prevent accidental leakage)Common hesitations wineries have about AI (privacy, cost, and job security)How CorkVision helps small family wineries stay competitiveThe role of data quality in building meaningful customer relationshipsWhat 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]