Get ready for an adventure as we travel through the world of grapes with Debbie Inglis!  From being crowned Ontario's Grape King to spearheading research at Brock University, Debbie's passion and expertise in viticulture are unmatched. Her energy and dedication to the wine industry will inspire you. In this episode, you will be able to:  Hear about her journey from being a grape kid to becoming the Director of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University. Understand why her passion for the Ontario grape and wine industry shines through in her work and interactions with others. Learn how a background in biochemistry and research led her to a successful career in the wine industry, where she now oversees research projects and analytical services at the institute. Hear the passion in Debbie's voice as she shares her advice to individuals interested in the wine industry about finding their passion and pursuing it wholeheartedly. Debbie Inglis, a renowned figure in the grape and wine industry, has a rich and diverse background that spans from her early days as a grape kid on a farm in the Niagara Peninsula to her current role as the Director of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University in Ontario, Canada. With a Ph.D. in biochemistry and a passion for promoting the Ontario grape and wine industry, Debbie's story includes being crowned Ontario's Grape King in 2010, showcasing her dedication and expertise in the field. Her extensive experience in grape farming, research, and industry collaboration has shaped her career and positioned her as a respected leader in the wine community. Through her work, Debbie continues to inspire and educate the next generation of wine enthusiasts and professionals, making a lasting impact on the industry. Contact Debbie Inglis here:  [email protected] 

Join me as I chat with Taylor Emerson, owner of Black Bank Hill Winery, as he shares his story of adventure from wine lover to winery owner, exploring his motivations, challenges, and unique winemaking approach. Grab a glass and immerse yourself in the world of wine with Taylor.  Let's uncork the adventure together. In this episode, you'll be able to learn about:  Starting a winery is a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires commitment, intention, and a clear target for winemaking. Taylor's business and corporate development background provided valuable skills for starting and running a winery. The decision to buy land for the winery in Beamsville was a leap of faith but one that Taylor would make again due to the rewarding experience. The winery focuses on traditional winemaking methods, emphasizing its wines' simplicity, purity, and balance. Taylor's approach to marketing includes personal interactions in the tasting room, emphasizing the importance of trial and word-of-mouth promotion.   Taylor Emerson is the passionate owner of Black Bank Hill, a new winery located in Beamsville. His adventure from winemaking began with a deep love for wine, cultivated through years of exploring wine regions during holidays. After a gap in his career led him to pursue wine education in London, Taylor's path eventually led him back to Canada, where he purchased a property to start his own winery from the ground up. With a general management and corporate development background, Taylor brought a wealth of business knowledge to his winemaking venture. His approach to winemaking is traditional and hands-on, focusing on creating wines that reflect the purity and balance of the fruit. Taylor's dedication to his craft is evident in his exceptional wines, with a particular highlight being the Syrah from the vineyard's first vintage. Taylor's commitment to quality and passion for sharing the experience of wine with others shines through in his approach to promoting the winery. He values the personal connection of pouring wine for visitors, creating a welcoming and educational tasting experience. Taylor's dedication to creating a balanced lifestyle through winemaking is evident in his belief that wine is not just a beverage but a multidimensional experience that enhances life. With a commitment to quality, tradition, and the joy of sharing exceptional wines with others, Taylor's winery is a testament to his passion and dedication to the craft. Visit Black Bank Hill to experience Taylor's exceptional wines and the story behind each bottle. Contact Taylor Emerson here:  Website: https://www.blackbankhill.com/ Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbankhill/

Are you ready to hear what really goes on behind the scenes of your favourite podcasts?  Discover the surprising truths and unexpected lessons of podcasting. This is my 50th episode and I asked Judith Lewis, a long-time supporter, a frequent guest and my effervescent wing man when it comes to discussing wonky wine terms, to interview me. In this episode, you'll: Discover unique podcasting experiences and valuable lessons learned. Learn how to overcome the challenges of conducting engaging and insightful interviews. Uncover effective marketing strategies to elevate the success of a podcast and grow your audience. Explore the numerous benefits of attending conferences, gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities. Judith puts me on the hot seat and asks all kinds of questions... so turn up the volume and listen in as I share ideas, takeaways and lessons learned. Grab a glass of wine and enjoy!

Are you prepared for a journey with Peter Rod, a sommelier-turned-professor, as we uncork the enchantment of the wine world? Join us on Wine Behind the Scenes as we explore Peter's remarkable career—from his beginning in the Ottawa Valley to managing extraordinary wine programs. Discover the ins and outs of creating memorable dining and wining experiences, learning the art and science of being a senior manager in the hospitality industry, and the joys and challenges of passing that knowledge on to students who want to embrace the opportunities for themselves.   Tune in to learn more at @winebehindthescenes podcast with @laurelsimmmons. Listen now! www.winebehindthescenes.com"   Get ready for an episode filled with insights, advice, and a touch of romance. Let's raise a glass and toast to the adventures that await us with Peter on Wine Behind the Scenes. In this episode, Peter:  Shares how he transitioned from being a sommelier to a professor at Niagara College. Emphasizes the importance of passion and dedication in pursuing a career in the hospitality or wine industry. Highlights the need for soft skills, such as customer service and organizational skills, in addition to technical knowledge. Advises individuals to explore entrepreneurial opportunities within the industry and be open to creating their own path. Discusses the joy of selecting wines from his personal cellar.. Peter Rod, a seasoned sommelier turned professor, boasts a rich background spanning over 30 years in the hospitality and wine industry. His journey began in the late 80s, driven by a profound love for food and wine, leading him to excel in top restaurants and wine programs. Transitioning to academia in 2014, Peter now imparts his extensive knowledge at Niagara College, emphasizing passion, innovation, and customer service in beverage business management. Beyond teaching, Peter curates his own remarkable wine cellar housing over 600 bottles, each with its own narrative, adding flair to special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and quiet dinners at home. His discerning eye for wine selection ensures every sip is a celebration of life's moments. Connect with Peter Rod: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-rod-231b94149/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-bodnar-rod-a779ba31/ https://winefoodmood.com/ https://13thstreetwinery.com/ https://www.internationalsommelier.com/

Are you ready to unravel the mysteries of sparkling wine and Champagne?  Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the world of bubbles with Lieven DeGeyndt, a Master of Champagne. Discover sparkling wine's fascinating history, unique pairings, and hidden gems.  From the secrets of Champagne production to the art of food pairing, this Wine Behind the Scenes episode will leave you craving more. So grab a glass, sit back, and let's uncork the magic of sparkling wine together.  Cheers to a sparkling adventure! In this episode, you'll be able to:  Learn about the fascinating world of sparkling wine and Champagne with expert Lieven DeGeyndt  Discover the history and differences between Champagne and sparkling wine Understand the importance of acidity in Champagne when pairing with food Explore the variety of sparkling wines from different countries and small producers Find out how to properly store and enjoy leftover sparkling wine Lieven DeGeyndt is a passionate expert in sparkling wine and Champagne. As a certified Master of Champagne through the Wine Scholar Guild, he has delved deep into the intricacies of the Champagne region, studying its history, production methods, and unique characteristics. With a background in owning bars in Washington, DC, Lieven's love for Champagne and sparkling wine led him to establish the Sparkle-ist Club, a wine club dedicated to sharing sparkling wines' diverse and fascinating world with others. Through private tastings, education events, and virtual tastings, he aims to demystify sparkling wine, showcasing its versatility and ability to elevate everyday moments. With a keen eye for quality and a passion for storytelling, Lieven sources unique and standout sparkling wines worldwide, offering club members a curated selection beyond the familiar labels. Whether pairing Champagne with fried chicken or exploring the rich history of women in the champagne industry, Lieven's expertise and enthusiasm make him a valuable resource for anyone looking to discover the joys of sparkling wine. Connect with Lieven DeGeyndt  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lieven-degeyndt-55548a6/ Instagram: @thesparkleistclub Website: https://sparkle-ist.com/ Email: [email protected]

Your favourite wine enthusiast's journey from pouring tips into wine purchases to earning a PhD isn't what you'd expect from a typical wine bar server. The surprising twists and turns in Jennifer Kelly's wine-making career will leave you eager to learn more about the untold possibilities in the wine industry.  I really love attending conferences with fellow wine academics because we get a sense of the research that's going on everywhere and like it's happening everywhere. - Jennifer Kelly In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how someone can go from having a part-time job at the LCBO to obtaining a PhD in wine science. Understand why passion is so important when it comes to making a career choice. Discover the enriching opportunities available for gaining hands-on experience in global wine-making. Learn why applied science studies in the academic world of wine-making can be so satisfying.  Jennifer Kelly is an accomplished wine enthusiast and seasoned researcher with a strong background in wine science and viticulture. Hailing from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Jennifer's journey began with small roles at a wine bar and the LCBO, which served as the catalyst for her profound interest in wine and its intricate processes. She gained experience in international harvest work which helped her understand and appreciate different winemaking cultures. Jennifer's academic pursuits culminated in the attainment of a PhD, specializing in the impact of yeast on sugar levels and flavors in wine. Now, she not only gets to continue her research in wine-making techniques but she also get to help and mentor local and international students.  Connect with Jennifer Kelly:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kelly-aba763174/ Email: [email protected]

Get ready for a peek behind the scenes of how one company offers a different wine every single day of the year to its customers. Join me as I chat with Agent Cru from Wine Spies, one of the masterminds behind Wine Spies' unique daily wine offerings.  Wine Spies stands as a trailblazer in the wine industry, boasting over 16 years of innovation and excellence. Discover how the agents of Wine Spies select wines from around the globe and hear about the challenges and joys of running a wine e-commerce platform.  In this episode you'll be able to learn about:  how Wine Spies has featured one new wine (and more!) every day for the last 16 years the inner workings of Wine Spies how wine tasting involves multiple variables making it a unique and fascinating experience As a partner in Wine Spies, Agent Cru injects joy and excitement into the wine scene. His  approach transforms wine tasting into an adventure, captivating enthusiasts with every sip, and turning enthusiasts into long-time customers.  Tune in now for an insider's look at the fascinating world of wine commerce and how Wine Spies presents a new bottle daily from around the world!  Contact Agent Cru here: Website: https://winespies.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/addisonrex/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/winespies/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/winespies Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgbMIWMBAE0Dd5u5wrSQWrw  

Explore the secrets behind the art of winemaking and the dedication it requires to turn grapes into liquid gold. Join us as we unravel the stories and struggles of starting a new winery with Ron Giesbrecht, a true connoisseur of the vine. In this episode, you'll be able to: Learn about Ron's journey from winemaker to professor to starting a new winery Gain insights into the challenges and rewards of starting a new winery, including the importance of intentionality in winemaking Understand the complexities of the wine industry, including the regulatory and financial aspects of starting a winery Explore the different characteristics of Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc wines Imagine being a winemaker for decades, teaching students how to make wine at Niagara College for nine years, retiring, and then starting a new winery.  It must be a passion, or perhaps that person is "caught in the vines." Ron shares his journey from being a winemaker and professor to starting a new winery called Wending Home. Despite the challenges and complexities of starting a winery, Ron's passion for winemaking and commitment to the industry drives him forward. Ron reflects on his time as a winery professor at Niagara College, emphasizing the importance of learning from students and the diverse experiences they bring. Teaching has been a rewarding experience for Ron, allowing him to share his knowledge and learn from others in return.  He highlights the significance of intentionality in winemaking, emphasizing the role of the winemaker in shaping the final product.  Also, Ron's love for Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc shines through as he discusses these grape varieties' unique characteristics and the artistry of crafting wines from them.    Contact Ron Giesbrecht here:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-giesbrecht-b9625981/ Website: https://wendinghome.ca/

What happens when a New York City resident packs it in and moves to sunny Tampa, Florida?  This journey from the bustling city to a new life in sunny Florida led to an unexpected wine, art, and self-publishing adventure. And it all started with a passion for creating memorable experiences through wine and art.  Joanna Barbolla is an accomplished wine, art and travel enthusiast. Her professional journey, from her corporate career to her current role as a self-published author of her new book "Divulge D'Vino", reflects her deep expertise and commitment to the world of art and wine.  Joanna has demonstrated her extensive knowledge and passion for the subject with a track record of organizing successful wine and art networking groups and running a popular wine blog. Her focus on discovering and promoting value wines contributes to her unique perspective and promises to offer valuable insights into the world of wine.  Want to find out how she did it and what surprising wine she's showcasing in her book? Stay tuned for the unexpected twists and turns in this inspiring story. I love talking about the book. I love talking about the wine. I love talking about my art and how I got myself to Florida. So it's very fun. It's entertaining, it's very social. - Joanna Barbolla In this episode, you will: Explore the rich history and flavours of wines with a modern twist. Uncover the unique characteristics and versatility of Cabernet Franc in the world of wine. Peek behind the curtain of the self-publishing world.  Learn how to immerse yourself in a sensory journey through abstract paintings inspired by wine and art. Contact Joanna Barbolla here:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joanna.barbolla Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ArtReflectionsDesign/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-barbolla/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/DivulgeDVino

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of global Valentine's Day traditions, where love, wine, and culture intertwine unexpectedly. Join us as we uncover the surprising twist that adds a delightful flavour to this cherished celebration, leaving you with wonder and anticipation.  Are you ready to embark on a journey that will captivate your heart and expand your horizons?   Stay tuned for an unforgettable exploration of Valentine's Day traditions worldwide. No matter what kind of relationship you're in with your cat, your dog, your spouse, your lover, your spouse and your lover, no one at all, yourself, you should love yourself. You will always have yourself to love. So raise a glass and enjoy your Valentine's Day. - Judith Lewis In this episode, you will be able to: Explore diverse Valentine's Day traditions worldwide to discover unique cultural celebrations of love. Uncover the fascinating mass weddings in the Philippines, adding a special touch to Valentine's Day. Delve into the Japanese chocolate-giving tradition, a delightful and meaningful gesture of affection. Experience Argentina's Week of Sweetness, a heartwarming celebration filled with love and confectionery delights. Discover the significance of Welsh spoons and English wine blessing, adding a touch of charm to Valentine's Day celebrations. Judith Lewis is an experienced wine enthusiast and a seasoned traveller with a deep understanding of diverse cultural traditions. Her extensive global explorations have provided her with unique insights into various practices of love and wine worldwide, making her a knowledgeable and engaging guest for today's Valentine's Day traditions discussion. With a wealth of knowledge and a passion for uncovering the hidden stories behind global celebrations, Judith offers a refreshing perspective to exploring worldwide Valentine's Day practices. Contact Judith here:  Website: https://www.decabbit.com/ Website: http://mostlyaboutchocolate.com/ X (New name for "Twitter"): https://twitter.com/judithlewis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mostlyaboutchoc/ Email: [email protected]