In this episode, Jono sits down with Professor Carlos Poblete Echeverria to explore how AI is reshaping the future of viticulture. From electrical conductivity sensors that map soil variability to smartphone tools that detect leaf roll virus in real time, the conversation unpacks how data-led farming is changing how wine is grown and made. They delve into why better data in the vineyard means less intervention in the cellar, how AI is opening the door to more precise and expressive winemaking, and why the next generation of producers will be defined not just by their tools, but by how well they understand and use their data.

In this episode of The Vinimark Podcast, we sit down with four leading voices from the South African Sommelier Association following their recent Western Cape tour. From Johannesburg to Bloemfontein and beyond, they share what it means to deliver truly memorable service, where knowledge meets warmth, and culture shapes every interaction. Their conversation uncovers the evolving world of South African hospitality: one defined not by pretence, but by people, place, and passion. Together, these sommeliers remind us that excellent service isn't just about what's in the glass; it's about the meaning poured into it.

This episode marks 100 years since the birth of Pinotage, South Africa's most iconic and debated red grape. We're joined by wine writer and historian Emile Joubert for a fascinating exploration of Pinotage's origin story, from Professor Abraham Perold's groundbreaking cross to the cultivar's early identity struggles and eventual global recognition. Emile sheds light on forgotten pioneers, unconventional early wines, and the social and stylistic turning points that shaped Pinotage's reputation. As we look ahead, he also shares his bold take on what it will take for Pinotage to thrive in its next century.

In this latest episode, our host Jono le Feuvre talks to Mark Goldsworthy, Sales Manager at Chene South Africa, about the changing face of barrel use in wine making. Mark has both rich experience and a broad overview of the history and future of wood use in wine, and discusses the status quo as it is around the world, as well as the ingenious innovations that are changing the way people make wine - specifically in South Africa. 

In this episode, Jono chats to Tara Southey, the CEO of Terraclim, a company that provides some veritable space-age insights into the future of viticulture and winemaking in the Cape Winelands. Spoiler - the future is nothing like you imagine!

In this episode, Jono dives into the wild world of wine yeast, along wit the microscopic revolution that's underway!   Our guest is Neil Jolly, a senior microbiologist at Infruitec-Nietvoorbij research station. Neil has spent his life working in the field of wine microbiology, but more specifically in the field of non-Saccharomyces yeasts, and their role in the improvement of wine quality.  

Tim Atkin has just completed his 12th South African Wine Report, including notes on more than 2200 wines.  Jono sat down with Tim to mine out some of the most important themes in the report, including his discovery of exciting new winemakers and positive winemaking trends. Conversely, Tim also shares a few notes where he feels that South African wine could do better.   

In this episode, Jono chats to the supremely eloquent Elleunorah Allsopp, the Senior Researcher at Nietvoorbij Research Farm. Elleunorah shares the fascinating history of how the vine parasite Phylloxera conquered the world, and why no one is safe just yet…!

In this episode, Jono chats to Johan Reyneke; owner of Reyneke Wines, and pioneer in biodynamic viticulture in South Africa.   The episode is primarily concerned with the fascinating world of bio-solutions in viticulture, but as so often happens when Johan is involved, the topics spread both broader and deeper; touching on the philosophy of science, the economics of animals in viticulture, and the need to restore a holistic view of farming.

In this episode of the Vinimark Podcast, we interview Nadia Hefer - the driving force behind the Old Vine Project's brand new digital education platform.   Nadia discusses the history of the Old Vine Project, the keys to their success, and the incredible scientists and experts they've met along the way. She unpacks a little of the new course's curriculum and touches on the role of hard science in support of the Old Vine Initiative, silencing the critics.