The Sipping Point: Wine, Food & More!

What do Olympic sailing, aerospace engineering, and world-class Brunello have in common? More than you might think. This week on The Sipping Point , Laurie Forster sits down with Alessandra Angelini of Altesino , one of Montalcino's historic Brunello producers. Before returning to Tuscany and her family's wine business, Alessandra trained with the Italian National Team in Olympic-class sailing and earned a degree in aerospace engineering. She went on to work in the United States designing aircraft engines before bringing that combination of discipline, science, and problem-solving back to the family wineries. Alessandra shares how Altesino has maintained its signature elegant style of Sangiovese even as tastes in wine have changed—and why a style that once seemed almost out of step with the times now feels remarkably modern. Laurie and Alessandra also explore the differences between Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino , why Rosso deserves to be taken seriously as its own wine, and how dramatically Sangiovese can express the different soils, elevations, exposures, and microclimates within Montalcino. Then they dive into Montosoli , Altesino's legendary single-vineyard Brunello and one of the wines that helped pioneer the concept of vineyard-designated Brunello in Montalcino. In This Episode How Olympic sailing prepared Alessandra for the unpredictable world of wine What aerospace engineering taught her about research, efficiency, and winemaking Why Rosso di Montalcino isn't simply "Baby Brunello" Why Alessandra calls Sangiovese a "religion" in Tuscany How northern and southern Montalcino differ How long you can age a great Brunello—and why there isn't one perfect drinking window And perhaps the most important takeaway: great wine doesn't have to be intimidating. As Alessandra puts it, "Brunello is always interesting." Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. Bordeaux may be one of the world’s most famous wine regions—but is our perception of it stuck in the past? Laurie Forster sits down with Bordeaux-based wine educator, writer and yoga teacher Wendy Narby to explore a region that has become more welcoming, innovative and diverse than many wine drinkers realize. Wendy shares what has changed in Bordeaux over the past 20 years, from sustainability and climate adaptation to gentler winemaking techniques and a new generation of more fruit-forward, approachable wines. She also takes us beyond Bordeaux’s famous reds to the region’s whites, Crémant, rosé, sweet wines and experimental new styles. Then the conversation turns from what we drink to how we drink it . Drawing from her book The Drinking Woman’s Diet , Wendy shares her practical approach to enjoying wine while supporting a healthy lifestyle. She and Laurie talk about moderation, eating with wine, pour size, hydration and why there’s absolutely nothing wrong with leaving wine in your glass. Wendy also explains why she has shifted the conversation from “wine and wellness” to “wine and wellbeing,” how yoga and mindfulness fit into her philosophy, and why wine is best viewed not as a health food—but as a delicious, social pleasure to be enjoyed intentionally. In This Episode: Why the people of Bordeaux may be the region’s greatest asset How Bordeaux has become more accessible over the past 20 years How research and technical expertise spread innovation across Bordeaux The growing importance of sustainability and climate-conscious farming What inspired Wendy to write The Drinking Woman’s Diet Wendy’s philosophy of drinking less—but drinking something delicious The surprising connection between yoga, mindfulness and wine Check out Wendy's video course The Drinking Women's Diet and use code winecoach to get a 20 euro discount! Click Here Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Johnson of Spy Valley Wines for a thoughtful and refreshingly honest conversation about family, place, and the future of wine. Amanda shares the story behind her family’s winemaking journey, what makes Spy Valley’s wines so distinctive, and why sustainability isn’t a trend for them—it’s a responsibility. We dive into how thoughtful viticulture shows up in the glass, exploring the vibrant character of their Sauvignon Blanc and the elegance of their Pinot Noir, while also touching on the exciting shifts happening across the wine world right now. It’s a conversation rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and grounded in deep respect for the land. Check out the Spy Valley Winery website for more about the winery, wines & their sustainability efforts. WInes Tasted Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc Spy Valley Pinot Noir Learn more about the Marlborough region at AppellationMarlborough.com Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. One grape. Three world-class wine regions. One legendary winemaker. What happens when the same winemaker crafts Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley, McLaren Vale (Australia), and Walla Walla (Washington)? Chris Carpenter joins Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach®, to explore how terroir, climate, and farming practices shape the personality of each wine. Known for his work with Lokoya, Cardinale, Mt. Brave, La Jota Vineyard Co., and Hickinbotham, Chris shares why great wine begins in the vineyard, how regenerative farming is changing the future of Cabernet, and what every wine lover should notice when tasting these iconic regions side by side. Whether you're a Cabernet enthusiast or simply curious about why wines from different places taste so different, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the art and science of winemaking. In this episode: Why the same Cabernet Sauvignon tastes dramatically different in Napa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Walla Walla The role of soil, elevation, and climate in shaping a wine's personality Why Chris believes great wine is made "80% in the vineyard and 20% in the winery" How harvest timing affects freshness, balance, and alcohol levels What regenerative and organic farming really look like—from sheep and goats to ladybugs and snakes How wine regions are adapting to climate change through smarter vineyard practices What's next for one of the world's most respected Cabernet winemakers Wines Tasted 2022 Hickinbotham Trueman Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 Skysill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 Mt. Brave Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. Michigan may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of world-class wine—but that may be about to change. In this episode of The Sipping Point Podcast , Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach®, sits down with acclaimed wine writer and former Wine Enthusiast Editor-in-Chief Susan Kostrzewa to explore why Traverse City has become one of America's most exciting cool-climate wine destinations. Susan shares her journey from growing up in northern Michigan to becoming one of the wine industry's most respected voices. Together, they discuss the grapes putting Michigan on the map, why climate change is reshaping wine regions around the world, and how authentic storytelling helps consumers connect with the people behind every bottle. Whether you're planning a trip to the Traverse City Food & Wine Festival or simply looking for your next favorite Riesling or sparkling wine, this episode will inspire you to discover one of America's hidden wine gems. In This Episode You'll Learn: Susan Kostrzewa's journey from Traverse City to leading Wine Enthusiast to starting her company Resplendent Ink Why Michigan has become one of America's premier cool-climate wine regions The Michigan wines and grape varieties you should be drinking now Why Traverse City's sparkling wines deserve national attention How climate change is creating both opportunities and challenges for winemakers What to expect at the Traverse City Food & Wine Festival, August 19-23, 2026 Featured Wines & Wineries Mawby Grace Brut Rosé Left Foot Charley Blaufränkisch Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. Is Verdicchio Italy's best-kept wine secret? In this episode of The Sipping Point Podcast , Laurie Forster sits down with Damiano Sorato , Vice President of Sales at Ethica Wines, Federico Veronesi , CEO of Signorvino and Oniwines, and the winemaker from Villa Bucci to explore why Italian indigenous white wines are capturing the attention of wine lovers around the world. As Ethica Wines celebrates its 10th anniversary , the conversation looks at how the importer has helped introduce authentic, family-owned Italian wineries to the U.S. market while championing lesser-known grape varieties with incredible quality and value. Together, they dive into the remarkable story of Verdicchio —a grape once overlooked but now recognized as one of Italy's greatest white wines thanks to its freshness, complexity, food-friendliness, and extraordinary aging potential. Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. What does it take to turn a family legacy into one of Brooklyn's most beloved Italian restaurants? This week, Laurie sits down with Chef Al DiMeglio , owner of Barano and Spirit Animal in Williamsburg, to explore the stories, techniques, and philosophy behind his acclaimed approach to Italian food. Named after his grandmother's hometown on the island of Ischia, Barano celebrates authentic Italian cooking with handmade pasta, naturally fermented sourdough pizza, and a deep respect for tradition. Al shares how his family shaped his culinary journey, why natural fermentation is worth the extra effort, and the surprising pizza trick—using ice cubes—that has everyone talking. You'll also hear why less is more when it comes to great pasta sauce, how to make better pizza at home (even without a wood-fired oven), what it's like judging chefs on Beat Bobby Flay , and why supporting neighborhood restaurants matters now more than ever. Whether you're a pizza fanatic, wine lover, home cook, or simply appreciate a great hospitality story, this episode is packed with practical tips and delicious inspiration. In This Episode The story behind Barano and honoring his grandmother's hometown in Ischia Why he opened Spirit Animal and his philosophy on natural wine The science behind sourdough pizza and why fermentation matters The surprising reason he puts ice cubes on pizza before baking Simple techniques for making incredible pizza at home The secrets to authentic Italian pasta sauce Behind the scenes of judging on Beat Bobby Flay The must-order dishes at Barano—and the wines he'd pair with them Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her newly announced Treasures of Tuscany Tour in May 2027. What happens when a NASA budget officer trades spreadsheets for beer? Elliott Johnson, co-founder and CEO of Soul Mega , shares how a homebrewing hobby evolved into one of the Mid-Atlantic's fastest-growing craft beer brands. In this episode, Elliott discusses leaving a successful government career to pursue entrepreneurship, building a brand that celebrates culture, creativity, and community, and what it meant for Soul Mega to win the prestigious 2026 Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream Experienceship. Along the way, we taste Soul Mega's award-winning Worldwide American Pale Ale and Metropolis IPA , talk food pairings, bust common beer myths, and explore why craft beer is about so much more than what's in the glass. In This Episode Elliott's journey from NASA budget officer to full-time craft beer entrepreneur The story behind the name "Soul Mega" and its mission to blend beer, culture, and community How Soul Mega won the 2026 Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream Experienceship How an independent brewery lands shelf space at retailers like Whole Foods and Total Wine The biggest misconceptions about craft beer, including IPAs and proper serving temperature Beers Tasted Soul Mega Worldwide Pale Ale Soul Mega Metropolis IPA Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary and the 50th anniversary of the legendary Judgment of Paris approaches, we're raising a glass to one of the wineries that helped put California wine on the world stage. In this episode of The Sipping Point , Laurie Forster sits down with Kristy Melton, acclaimed winemaker at Freemark Abbey , one of Napa Valley's most historic wineries. Together they explore the winery's remarkable legacy—from its founding in 1886 by trailblazing entrepreneur Josephine Tychson to its starring role in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, where Freemark Abbey was the only California winery represented with both a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon. Kristy also shares her fascinating journey from NIH research scientist to Napa Valley winemaker, how science and intuition work together in the cellar, and how she's guiding Freemark Abbey into its next chapter while honoring nearly 140 years of history. Wines Tasted Freemark Abbey Chardonnay $45 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon $75 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Bosche $225 In this episode: The remarkable story of Josephine Tychson and the founding of Freemark Abbey Why the Judgment of Paris changed American wine forever Kristy's journey from scientist to award-winning winemaker What makes Freemark Abbey's Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon distinctive The history and significance of the iconic Bosché Vineyard Sustainability, innovation, and the future of Napa Valley winemaking Food pairings for Chardonnay, Napa Cabernet, and Bosché Vineyard Cabernet Common wine myths—including the truth about sulfites Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. What does it take to lead a family winery that's been making wine for more than 450 years? In this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster sits down with Louis Barruol, the 14th-generation owner of Château de Saint Cosme, one of the most respected estates in Gigondas and the Southern Rhône Valley. Louis shares how his family's commitment to organic farming, native yeast fermentation, and minimal-intervention winemaking has helped establish Saint Cosme as a benchmark producer in the region. Along the way, we taste the Les Deux Albions Blanc, Côtes du Rhône Rouge, and Saint Cosme Gigondas while exploring the role of terroir, biodynamic farming, art, food pairing, and why patience is becoming a lost virtue in today's wine culture. Whether you're a Rhône enthusiast, a fan of organic wines, or simply curious about how great wines are made, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside one of France's most historic wine estates. Check out Louis Vintage Booklet for Vintage 2024 Wines Tasted Domaine de Saint Cosme Les Deux Albion Blanc Saint Cosme Côtes du Rhône Château de Saint Cosme Gigondas Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. What makes a great restaurant wine list? Should you trust wines by the glass? And why are so many wine lovers saving their best bottles for "someday"? This week, legendary wine writers Dorothy Gaiter and John Brecher join Laurie to discuss the state of restaurant wine programs, the joy of opening special bottles, and the lessons they've learned from a lifetime of tasting wine together. Best known for creating and writing The Wall Street Journal's beloved "Tastings" column from 1998 to 2010, Dorothy and John helped make wine approachable and accessible to everyday consumers. Today, they continue their work at Grape Collective and join Laurie to share their thoughts on restaurant wine lists, wine-by-the-glass programs, Open That Bottle Night, independent wine shops, wine myths, and why trusting your own palate is one of the best wine lessons of all. Connect with Dottie & John on Instagram and read their columns at the GrapeCollective.com Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. What happens when a rock star trades stadium tours for wine glasses? In this episode of The Sipping Point, I sit down with Paul Cullen, former bassist for the legendary rock band Bad Company, private chef, entrepreneur, and founder of Paul Cullen Wines . Paul shares how his passion for food and wine led him from the music industry to creating a portfolio of Italian wines that overdeliver on quality, value, and personality. We dive into the stories behind his wines, the inspiration for his guitar-themed labels, and why exploring lesser-known grape varieties can transform the way you buy and enjoy wine. Along the way, Paul shares memories from life on the road with Bad Company, his favorite food and wine pairings, and the wine myths he wishes more people would stop believing. Whether you're a wine lover, music fan, or someone considering your own second act, this conversation is packed with great stories, practical wine advice, and plenty of inspiration. In this episode you'll learn: • How Paul transitioned from professional musician to wine entrepreneur • The story behind Paul Cullen Wines and its Italian roots • Why Paul Cullen Rosé, Lambrusco, and Rosso deserve a place on your table • Food pairing ideas that make wine more approachable and enjoyable • Common misconceptions about decanting and wine aeration • Why wine tastings are one of the best ways to discover new favorites • Paul's go-to wines and advice for adventurous wine drinkers Plus, we chat about my upcoming Something to Wine About® wine comedy show at The Room at Cedar Grove on July 10. Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. Maryland wine is having a moment, and this episode takes you right to the heart of it. Laurie sits down with Janna Howley of the Maryland Wineries Association to get a preview of Maryland Crafted, the premier celebration of Maryland wine, beer, and spirits taking place June 13 in Centreville, Maryland. Then she chats with Judy Crow and winemaker Michael Zollo of Crow Vineyard & Winery , to explore the growth of Maryland's wine industry and what makes it such an exciting destination for wine lovers. You'll also get an inside look at Crow Vineyard's journey from family farm to award-winning winery. Along the way, the conversation covers wine tasting tips, food pairing advice, common wine myths, and why Maryland's unique climate and community are helping produce wines worth discovering. Wines Tasted Crow Vineyards Pinot Gris Crow Vineyards Barbera Reserve To find out more about Maryland Crafted on June 13th and get your VIP tickets visit MarylandCrafted.com Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. On this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie sits down with Kim Akhtar, senior sommelier at Le Bernardin, to explore wine through a completely different lens. From her fascinating journey through music, journalism, flamenco dancing in Spain, and Burgundy wine studies, Kim shares how storytelling, history, and technical knowledge shape the way she educates people about wine today. They also dive into volcanic wines, the future of AI in wine, and why understanding the science behind the glass can deepen your appreciation for every sip. Wines Tasted The Wine Coach Club Lava to Glass Wine Pack 2023 Paterianakis Vidiano, Crete, P.G.I., Greece 2023 Suavia Soave Classico Monte Carbonare DOC, Veneto, Italy 2023 Masseria Setteporte Etna Rosso, Sicily, Italy Kim's Selections Benanti Etna Bianco Benanti Etna Rosso Follow Kim on Instagram at @ kimakhtar and on TikTok @kimthesomm Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her comedic wine tasting Something to Wine About at The Room at Cedar Grove in Lewes, DE on July 10th at 6PM. Is great wine created through science, artistry… or a little bit of both? On this episode of The Sipping Point , Laurie Forster sits down with two experts from Hartford Family Winery — veteran winemaker Jeff Stewart and Master Sommelier Nick Hetzel — for a lively conversation about what really makes a wine memorable. Jeff shares how a life-changing glass of Burgundy inspired his 40+ year winemaking career, while Nick reveals how working with top chefs and restaurants led him to pursue the prestigious Master Sommelier diploma. Together, they break down why Sonoma’s Russian River Valley is one of the world’s top regions for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and explain how vineyard, climate, and winemaking choices shape what ends up in your glass. Laurie and her guests taste two standout wines from Hartford Family Winery — the Fog Dance Vineyard Chardonnay and Jennifer’s Vineyard Pinot Noir — while diving into restaurant wine tips, food pairing myths, vineyard farming practices, and why Chardonnay is officially having its comeback era. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or serious enthusiast, this episode will help you order, pair, and enjoy wine with more confidence (and less intimidation). Wines Tasted Hartford Family Fog Dance Chardonnay Hartford Family Jennifer's Vineyard Pinot Noir Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Discover the secrets behind tasting like a pro with Anthony Giglio—sommelier, longtime Food & Wine contributor, restaurant critic, cocktail expert, and creator of SUPERSALT. Anthony shares practical, no-snobbery tips for improving your palate, pairing wine with food, and making everyday eating and drinking more flavorful and fun. From mastering wine temperature to breaking out of your “usual wine rut,” this episode is packed with approachable advice you can use tonight. Key Takeaways: Why wine temperature matters more than most people realize The “three sip” tasting method for understanding flavor like a pro Easy food and wine pairing strategies—including the “wine sandwich” concept How to identify your personal taste preferences and trust your palate Simple ways to discover new wines outside your comfort zone The story behind SUPERSALT and how it elevates flavor Quick wine chilling hacks using salt, water, and frozen grapes Check out Anthony's website for more on his books, events and Supersalt: https://www.anthonygiglio.com/ Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

In this episode, Laurie Forster and Karen MacNeil discuss the importance of wine and food in fostering connections among people. They introduce the Share and Pair Sundays campaign, emphasizing the joy of sharing simple meals and wines with friends and family. The discussion highlights how wine serves as a connector, breaking down barriers and creating community. They also explore the psychological benefits of social gatherings and a call to celebrate community through shared experiences around wine. Share & Pair Sundays kicked off on May 3rd and runs till June 28th. Takeaways Wine and food create connections among people. Share and Pair Sundays encourages informal gatherings. Wine serves as a great connector in social settings. Mood should guide wine choices more than food pairings. Wine has a long history of communal significance. Celebrating togetherness is essential for happiness. Check out all things Share & Pair Sundays on their website and connect with them on Instagram @shareandpairsundays . Karen MacNeil's book The Wine Bible is available on Amazon.com or wherever you buy your books. Laurie's Wine Bodegas Ego Goru Verde Jumilla Red $13.99 Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including her Treasures of Tuscany Wine Tour this October. Join us for a conversation with Katie Santora, head winemaker at Chehalem Winery in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Katie shares her journey from Utah to wine country, how she blends science with intuition in the cellar, and her approach to crafting balanced, food-friendly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Along the way, we explore Oregon’s unique terroir, the evolution of winemaking techniques, and what’s next for the industry. In this episode: Katie’s unexpected path into wine and what sparked her passion Why real-world experience often trumps textbook winemaking The story behind Chehalem and its role in shaping Oregon wine How Willamette Valley soils influence Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Crafting expressive, single-vineyard wines and finding the right balance with oak Rethinking Oregon Pinot Noir—structure, versatility, and common misconceptions Wines Tasted: Chehalem Estate Chardonnay Chehalem Pinot Noir Rose Chehalem Estate Pinot Noir Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including the Wine Meets its Match tasting at The Ivy Cafe in Easton, MD on April 22nd. Cocktails without the stress? Yes, please. In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Incropera of Craftmix to talk about how a simple idea—making great cocktails easier—turned into a fast-growing beverage brand. We get into the real story behind the product, from early trial-and-error to what it takes to stand out in a crowded drinks market. We also dig into what today’s drinkers actually want (hint: it’s not complicated), the rise of low-calorie and mocktail options, and how Craftmix is building a loyal community along the way. If you’ve ever wished you could make a great cocktail anywhere—without dragging half your bar with you—this one’s for you. Key Topics From Kitchen Experiment to Cocktail Disruptor How Craftmix went from DIY mixes at home to a brand shaking up the drinks space. What Makes It Different Natural ingredients, low sugar, and cocktails that travel better than your suitcase. Flavors That Actually Make You Curious From Passion Fruit Paloma to seasonal drops like Apple Cider—what’s working and what surprised them. Cocktails at 30,000 Feet Partnerships with airlines and the bigger push toward sustainability and smart packaging. Building a Brand People Actually Care About Why community, personality, and vibe matter just as much as what’s in the packet. Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including the Wine Meets its Match tasting at The Ivy Cafe in Easton, MD on April 22nd. What happens when a casual group chat turns into a canned cocktail brand? In this episode, Treena Clampitt shares how My5 Vibes went from a fun idea among friends to a fast-growing Maryland-based beverage company. From navigating the maze of alcohol regulations to creating fresh, low-sugar vodka cocktails inspired by nostalgic flavors (yes, Maryland egg custard snowballs included), Treena pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to launch—and grow—a beverage brand while still working a full-time job. We dive into the wins, the roadblocks, and the behind-the-scenes hustle of building something from scratch, plus how community, creativity, and a little fearless experimentation helped bring My5 Vibes to life. If you’ve ever had a “what if we actually did this?” idea… this episode might be your sign. Key Takeaways How a group text sparked the idea for My5 Vibes The Maryland snowball flavor that started it all Creating natural, low-sugar vodka RTD cocktails What no one tells you about alcohol licensing and regulations Navigating the three-tier system without losing your mind The unexpected joy—and chaos—of building a business from scratch Support the show Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts , iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more. Let's Stay Connected: Instagram @thewinecoach Facebook @winecoach TikTok @LaurieForster