Ep 180: Latest Discoveries of the Wines of Alsace with Anne Mchale MW (Part 1)

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Hello wine friends, and welcome back to park two on Bordeaux, lead by my knowledgeable guest Jane Anson, a renowned wine writer and journalist known for her expertise in Bordeaux wines. Jane has authored several comprehensive books, and if you haven't picked up 'Inside Bordeaux' yet, it’s the ultimate guide you’ve been searching for. In this episode, we will discuss the Bordeaux pirates. Jane Anson will enlighten us on the innovative sustainability and environmental practices being adopted by Bordeaux wineries. With the global rise of natural and organic winemaking movements, she will address how Bordeaux is responding to these trends and highlight the standout producers pioneering these approaches. We will also delve into smaller family-owned wineries producing exceptional wines that deserve our attention. Additionally, we will explore some of the lesser-known grape varieties in Bordeaux that are re-emerging. Jane will share her favorite lesser-known Bordeaux subregions and appellations producing exceptional wines. This episode is filled with insider secrets you won't want to miss. This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead:  2.26: The emerging trends in Bordeaux: Organic winemaking 4.04: The Bordeaux Pirates  - smaller independent producers 5.44: Discovering Château Picoron during En Primeur                          7.19: The best value sub regions of Bordeaux 9.50: Jane’s maps of Bordeaux 15.13: Lesser Known grape varieties in Bordeaux 19.26: Agroforestry in Bordeaux 23.00: Focus towards organic viticulture 24.53: The pioneers in organics 26.39: Lesser celebrated vintages that are tasting well now 27.27: Smaller producers we should know about 30.11: A few recommended regions in Bordeaux to go and visit   To learn more from Jane and the happenings in Bordeaux, visit her website https://janeanson.com/ And use the code SAVE 10 for 10% off the first year subscription!   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Hello wine friends, and welcome to an exciting episode on Bordeaux! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Jane Anson, a renowned wine writer and journalist known for her expertise in Bordeaux wines. Jane has authored several comprehensive books, and if you haven't picked up 'Inside Bordeaux' yet, it’s the ultimate guide you’ve been searching for. In this episode, we'll dive deep into the world of En Primeur, discussing what it is and why it's such a significant event in Bordeaux. We’ll explore key factors to consider when evaluating Bordeaux wines during En Primeur tastings, how the prices typically compare to the eventual release price, and how these factors can influence your purchasing decisions. But there's more! We’ll also talk about Pétrus, one of Bordeaux's iconic wines, and its fascinating journey into space, exploring how this might affect the wines. Additionally, we'll take a look at the impressive wines being produced in China with Bordeaux varieties, focusing on the notable Ao Yun. Tune in for an enlightening discussion filled with insights and stories from the world of Bordeaux wines. This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead:   02.22: Jane's journey into journalism and wine writing 05.37:  Influential industry figures - Adam Lechmere & Jean-Michel Cazes 09.15: The Bordeaux Mentor Week 13.46: Some of Jane's Books - “Inside Bordeaux”, “Bordeaux Legends” 17.14: An unusual tasting - a Pétrus 2000 in space. 23.01: Nicolas Gaume -  Wine and space tourism 24.06: Pétrus - why is this Château so famous 26.36: Blue Clay soils of Bordeaux 27.46: Ao Yun - The Chinese Bordeaux Blend 33.57: The significance of En Primeur (wine futures) 44.29: Tasting and rating En Primeur wines 48.09: The Chateaux pricing methods & considerations 52.35: The future of En Primeur   To learn more from Jane and the happenings in Bordeaux, visit her website https://janeanson.com/ And use the code SAVE 10 for 10% off the first year subscription!   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Welcome back to part two with Anne McHale, Master of Wine. In this episode, we shift our focus from Alsace to the Douro region in Portugal. Anne shares her memorable experience of treading grapes in the Douro, highlighting the historical significance of traditional foot treading in port wine production and comparing it to modern mechanical methods.   We'll explore the primary red grapes used in port production: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Tinta Cão, and Tinta Barroca. Additionally, we'll discuss the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the Douro, with its steep, vineyard-covered slopes visible (something we should all be experiencing from a cruise boat along the River Douro).   We dig deeper into the unique vineyard planting methods: the traditional stone-wall terraces called Socalcos, the 1980s earth-bank Patamares, and the vertical plantings known as Vinha ao Alto. And even the oldest stone walls, Pilheiros, believed to be 400 years old.   This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead:   2.45: The different techniques used to build the unique terraces of the Douro region 06.01: Treading grapes at Quinta do Vesuvio 10.55: The €500 per-person experience at Quinta do Vesuvio 11.44: Douro - A UNESCO World Heritage site 13.30: Advantages & disadvantages of Treading traditionally vs mechanically   16.35: Best places for premium wines - Douro superior & Cima Corgo, and the climatic changes throughout region 17.40: Understanding these geographical concepts in preparation for the diploma questions 18.57: The schist and granite soils 20.45: Questions surrounding the Touriga Nacional variety - the D5 Fortified Exam and how to remember the descriptions of each grape variety in the typical blend 25.32: Anne’s experience staying in the Grahams’ Quinta - Quinta Dos Malvedos 26.20: Douro: The third oldest demarcated wine region in Europe 29.56: Syminton Family Estates 30.30: Wine Estate recommendations in the Douros 33.58: Three Therapy - a comprehensive guide on how to study for the Level 3 WSET   And don’t forget if you want to know more about Anne’s incredible Diplomatherapy you can click HERE to get weekly emails to help you with your diploma. Or if you want to explore more of what Anne has to offer Diploma related, click HERE.   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Hello, wine friends! In this episode, we journey into the Alsace wine region with the brilliant Anne Mchale, Master of Wine, and independent wine consultant and educator based in London. Anne's expertise spans across wine list design, corporate and private tastings, and innovative educational programs like her renowned course for WSET diploma students - Diplomatherapy  Sign up here: https://annemchale.com/diplomatherapy-2024-registration/   Or get email updates: https://annemchale.com/diploma-emails/   We'll explore the unique terroir of Alsace, its Grand Cru sites, and compare Riesling's distinct style with other renowned wine regions. Anne shares insights from her recent trip, highlighting hidden gems like the Sylvaner grape, dubbed the Cinderella grape, and the region's exciting focus on Pinot Noir.   Anne also provides invaluable tips for those studying for the challenging D3 exam.   Don't miss Anne's recommendations for top Alsace producers and must-visit places. Plus, discover the fantastic Crémants d'Alsace, a great alternative to champagne.    This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead:   05.08: How learning to speech French allowed Anne to fall into the world of wine 09.56: A wine memory at Pontet-Canet in Bordeaux who focus on biodynamic viticulture 11.48: Alsacian winemakers working more organically and biodynamically due to climate 14.20: Diplomatherapy - Anne’s membership programme to help you pass your WSET diploma 16.45: How to answer a typical D3 question: “Describe the unique terroir of Alsace and how it influences the characteristics of the wines produced there” 18.32: The climate during growing season in Alsace, the diurnal range in Grand Crus, and the cool climate 21.51: The 4 noble grape varieties of Alsace and increased plantings of Pinot Noir  24.37: The 51 Grand Crus, and the two to now permit Pinot Noir 26.45: Riesling in Alsace, compared to other regions and the change in labelling for dry Riesling 30.54: Common occurrence of petrol notes in aged Rieslings, and how they aren’t typical of Alsace  33.15: Tasting a Vendange Tardive Gewürztraminer 1953 38.27: Traveling tips for going to Alsace 42.36: Sylvaner -”The Cinderella Grape” 44.45: The Alsace Cru Terroir group and recommended producers to try   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

o download the transcript CLICK HERE   Welcome back to part 2 where we continue our discussion with Marc Hochar from the iconic Chateau Musar. In this episode, we shift our focus to the intriguing world of Chateau Musar's white wines. Marc enlightens us on the ancient grape varieties, Obaideh and Merwah, which form the backbone of these exceptional wines.   Join us as we uncover the secrets behind the longevity of Chateau Musar's whites. From discussing the optimal drinking window to cracking open a bottle of the exquisite 2017 Chateau Musar White, there's plenty to discover and savor.   This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead: 02.17: Diving deeper into the aging of wines 04.11: Chateau Musar reds of the 1950s 11.57: Experience with Blends and blind tasting 14.30: Opening the Chateau Musar white 2017 £36 The Wine Society £36.20 Vinvm 16.47: Flavour profile ands tasting notes 20.00: Reds Vs Whites as they age 23.08: The Chateau Musar Rosé - a blend of Obaideh and Merwah 31.34: The ancient grape varieties of Obaideh and Merwah 36.23: Food Pairings and tasting notes 40.20: The future of Chateau wines Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Welcome back! On today's episode, Join us as we venture into the saga of perseverance in winemaking, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 15/16 years of civil unrest. We uncover the fascinating narrative behind Chateau Musar, the revered wine of the Middle East. Our esteemed guest, Marc Hochar, from the family behind this iconic label, graciously shares their remarkable tales.   We'll delve into the legacy of Serge Hochar (Marc’s late father), a driving force behind Chateau Musar, whose unparalleled dedication earned him the prestigious title of Decanter Man of the Year. Together, we'll traverse the landscapes of Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, examining the intricate dance between climate, altitude, and organic viticulture, all shaping the unique essence of these wines.   As we sip on the 2016 Chateau Musar Red, we'll explore the nuances of volatile acidity, wild yeast, and low sulfur, delving into the winemaking philosophies that infuse each bottle with character.   This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead:   02.27: The Mzar castle in the Historic village of Ghazir, Beirut 05.17: Toughest points of Chateau Musar’s History: Wine & War 11.34: Marc’s Grandfather: Gaston - the man who started it all 16.02: A bottle of Chateau Musar’s trip to Antarctica 17.58: Identifying Chateau Musar in a blind tasting 19.55: Characteristics of Chateau Musar 21.50: Volatile Acidity in wine and how it enhances Chateau Musar 25.29: The Winemaking process 27.53: Discussing the age potential of these wines and tasting Chateau Musar Red 2016 £31.90 Noble Grape £34.95 The Worsley Fine Wines 29.27: Discussing emotion in wine instead of fruit 31.40: Organic viticulture in the vineyards 39.49: Climate and terroir in Bekaa Valley 36.37: Bush vines and yields 40.55: Discussing the differences between the reds and tasting Hochar Pere Et Fils 2020 £23.55 Field & Fawcett £26.95 Secret Bottle Shop   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   In this really fun episode (or at least it was for me to record) we are going to dig deeper into the rich tapestry of Spain's indigenous white grape varieties. After a request for an episode on the white grapes of Spain, followed by Decanter magazine's February edition, spotlighting Spain's vibrant wine scene, I explore the nuances of some of Spain’s most interesting native whites, curated from their top scoring whites featured in the publication.   With over a hundred native grape varieties, this episode is zoning in on the lesser-known gems of Xarel·lo, Airén, Treixadura, Albillo Real, Hondarrabi Zuri, and Vijariego Blanco. And along the way, you will also discover the wine regions that they come from. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the essence of Spain's white wine heritage, the nation’s evolving viticultural landscape and the experimentation happening within. Enjoy! This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead: 4.35: Xarel·lo Tasting The Vins Pepe Raventós, Xarel·lo Vinya del Noguer Alt 2021 £32 -34 Hedonism or Shrine to the Vine 9.35: Airén Tasting Bodegas Garcia De Lara, Finca Villalobillos Pie Franco Airén 2019 £17.95 Drinksmith 13.35: Treixadura Tasting Adegas Pazo do Mar the Torre do Olivar Treixadura 2021 £14.99 Strictly Wines 17.00: Albillo Real Tasting Las Pedreras, Linarejos Vino Blanco de Assemblage 2022 £37 Salisbury Wine Store 22.31: Hondarrabi Zuri Tasting Hiruzta Txakolina 2023 £18 Strictly Wines and Wine Republic 27.50: Vijariego Blanco Tasting Viñátigo, Vijariego Blanco 2022 £28 Hic Wine Merchants and Strictly Wines   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE In part two of our discussion on regenerative viticulture, we're joined by a special guest, Wendy Outhwaite, co-founder of Ambriel nestled in the picturesque West Sussex countryside of England. Wendy, who transitioned from a career as a barrister to cultivating vineyards alongside her husband Charles, shares her personal journey of discovering the profound importance of land and soil stewardship. Today Wendy recounts her experiences, from the initial experiment with geese in the vineyards to embracing alternative methods such as biological controls over harmful chemicals like insecticides and pesticides. Discover the surprising role dandelions and wildflowers play in nurturing vineyards and fostering biodiversity. We'll delve into the nitty-gritty of vineyard management, exploring the nuances between tilling and hoeing, and gaining insights into what truly defines regenerative viticulture from Wendy's perspective. So, grab a glass of your favorite wine and join us for an enlightening conversation on sustainable winemaking practices and the journey towards a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem.   This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead: 02.24: From lawyer to Winemaker 06.52: Healthier soil with regenerative farming 09.16: Hoeing and tilling 13.05: Wildflowers and their contributions 17.36: Planting more trees 20.22: Weeding with Geese 24.10: What is a mulch? 26.00: Vermiculture - Earthworms 33.34: Challenges of regenerative viticulture 35.17: Wine tasting - Blanc de Noirs 2016 £36.99 43.47: Ambiel’s Demi-Sec   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   In todays’ episode, join me as I chat with Justin Howard-Sneyd, a distinguished Master of Wine, wine consultant, and owner of the Domaine of the Bee winery in Roussillon. More importantly, Justin is a trustee of the Regenerative Viticulture Foundation, where he's been leading two-day courses in regenerative viticulture across the UK for the past two years.   Justin walks us through the essentials of regenerative farming, distinguishing it from organic practices and biodynamics. We'll explore the certification process in this field and dive into the debated topic of whether to till or not. The crux of these decisions lies in maximizing soil health.   Discover fascinating insights into the importance of healthy soils. Did you know that the soils in the UK alone can sequester a staggering 10 billion tonnes of carbon annually? That's equivalent to one year's worth of global human emissions! The detrimental effects of practices like tilling and heavy pesticide use on soil's carbon storage capacity highlight the urgent need for viticulturists to adopt regenerative methods.   This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead: 03.40: How Justin got into teaching Regenerative farming  08.54: The pros and cons of Tilling 12.05: The many people plough and believe it to be a positive 15.15: Toxicity of copper  17.23: Using different mulches such as sheep fleece 20.27: Work principles of regenerative farming 24.39: Regenerative certifications 30.26: Applied biodynamic practices 32.15: Soil health and resilience 33.32: Justin’s intro into Regenerative Viticulture   Do go to https://www.regenerativeviticulture.org/ to sign up to their mailing letters to find out about all events and news   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you!   ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST.

To download the transcript CLICK HERE   Welcome back to part two with Beatrice Bessi, our dedicated head sommelier. Beatrice's passion for wine shines through in every word, making her journey a delight to follow. In this episode, we delve into her experience with the Court of Master Sommelier exams, her recent Australian adventures, and her fascination with old vines. But our main focus is on the two Italian wine regions: Alto Adige and Trentino.   Picture snow-capped peaks and charming landscapes—Alto Adige sits at the crossroads of Austria and Switzerland, boasting a predominantly German-speaking population. Yet, its wines speak volumes in Italian tradition. We'll explore indigenous grape varieties like Schiava and Lagrein, and did you know? A whopping 98% of Alto Adige's wines reach at least the DOC level, a testament to its quality.   Just south lies Trentino, home to renowned sparkling wine producer Ferrari. While Trentino may be smaller, it holds its own charm, and Beatrice's fondness for the region shines bright. Join us as Beatrice shares her insights and passion, painting a vivid picture of these remarkable Italian wine destinations.   This episode is sponsored by Wickham Wines, A small business themselves focusing on top quality wines. Do yourself a favour, and go check out their online store for their amazing collection! Use the code EATSLEEP10 for 10% off your first order.   If you want to skip ahead: 02.26: The Court of Master Sommelier exams 09.08: The James Busby Trip through Australia 13.37: Tim Wildman and his Pet-Nats 15.52: The oldest vines of Grenache is Australia 17.33: The oldest vines of Shiraz in Australia 21.00: The regions of Alto Adige and Trentino 23.32: Schiava - the cotton candy grape 25.03: Grape variety Lagrein 29.36: Older grape varieties - Teroldego 31.44: Sweet and fortified 34.11: Tasting notes and flavour profiles 35.31: Kerner - crossover between Schiava & Riesling 36.34: Destination recommendations in Alto Adige and Trentino   Any thoughts or questions, do email me: [email protected] Or contact me on Instagram @eatsleep_winerepeat   If you fancy watching some videos on my youtube channel: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat Or come say hi at www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Until next time, Cheers to you! ------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------- THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST HAS BEEN FEATURED IN DECANTER MAGAZINE, RADIO TIMES AND FEED SPOT AS THE 6TH BEST UK WINE MAKING PODCAST