Italian Wine Podcast

Welcome to Episode 2477 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode of On the Road Edition, Stevie Kim meets Melissa Graeff, a VIA Expert in the Making. Melissa is aiming to achieve the Expert level certification at the Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador’s course in Chicago. In this conversation with Stevie Kim she explains what motivates her, her background in Italian wine and her specific method of study, as well as some tips and tricks on how to pass the challenging exam.  More about today’s guest:  Melissa Graeff is a Brand Manager at Kobrand Corporation in New York and an Italian Wine Ambassador (VIA, Class of 2024). A recipient of the SommCon USA 2023 scholarship, Melissa brings a strong background in wine education, holding certifications from WSET and continually expanding her expertise. Passionate about Italian wine and culture, she shares her knowledge through active engagement in the global wine community. Connect:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vintagemel30   L

Welcome to episode 2476 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 210 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Today Marc is in conversation with Giampaolo Tabarrini of the Tabarrini winery, one of the best-known and most respected artisan wine producers in Montefalco, a historic hill town in Umbria, Central Italy.  This episode of the Italian Wine Podcast is powered by Dialect Imports. More about the guest: Tabarrini is one of the best-known and most respected artisan wine producers in Montefalco with its vineyards and wine cellar located in and around the hamlet of Turrita. Giampaolo – who represents the fourth generation of the farmers of the Tabarrini family – is a passionate and eccentric winemaker and master and architect of this uncompromising and developing project. A visionary who remains true to himself while striving for change, Giampaolo has, since taking over his parents’ farm in the late 1990s, transformed it into the extraordinary success story it is today. The company that bears his name re

Welcome to Episode 2475 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Barbara Fitzgerald meets Christina Solazzo of Dialect Imports. Key Takeaways: Multigenerational continuity: how wineries can evolve and adapt to global markets. Women in wine: reshaping the industry with fresh perspectives and leadership. Scarcity & varietal diversity: how Italy’s diverse grape heritage creates opportunities to connect with new consumers. This episode of the Italian Wine Podcast is powered by Dialect Imports. More about the guest:  Christina Solazzo is a second-generation wine importer and the CEO & Co-Founder of Dialect Imports. She holds an MBA and an MA in Food Studies from Chatham University’s Falk School of Sustainability, a BA in Sociology from the College of Wooster and WSET Level 2. First introduced to the industry through her father’s import company, she built her own career in partnership management, events, and marketing for food and wine organizations. With Dialect Imports, Christina champions

Welcome to Episode 2474 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode of On the Road Edition, Stevie Kim is in conversation with Ben Aneff of US Wine Trade Alliance. Stevie and Ben discuss the impact of tariffs on the Italian wine sector and whether a further escalation is likely, how the tariff affects the US wine market, how Italian wineries can protect themselves when entering the US market and whether collaboration between producers and wine marketers can strengthen Italian wineries from the current trade war.  More about today’s guest:  Ben Aneff is the Managing Partner of Tribeca Wine Merchants in New York City, named one of “America’s Best Wine Shops” by Food & Wine Magazine, and an “Editor’s Favorite” by Wine Spectator. Ben has been involved in the fight against wine tariffs from the beginning. Prior to the formation of the US Wine Trade Alliance, Ben worked on campaigns that led to over 28,000 letters to Congress through work with the National Association of Wine Retailers and other constituents.

Welcome to Episode 2473 of the Italian Wine Podcast in which Jessica Dupuy interviews Amanda Barnes MW at TEXSOM 2025. This episode focuses on the wines of South America, Amanda’s transition from the UK to South America, her career in journalism, the journey to becoming a Master of Wine, and her relationship with Italian wines. The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a Media Partner of TEXSOM for the second year in a row, supporting one of the most influential wine events in North America. Join us at TEXSOM 2025 as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top writers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals at this highly influential wine event. In this special series, Jessica will delve into the experiences and insights of key attendees, exploring career paths, challenges, and the latest trends in the wine industry. This special TEXSOM series is made possible thanks to the support of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Uncork Texas Wines program, celebrating and promoting the vibrant

Welcome to Episode 2472 and Episode 2 of The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass. In this episode Ryan reads from chapters 4, 5 and 6 of the Art of Wine Storytelling, focusing on the Science of Emotion.   About Ryan Robinson: Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting

Welcome to Clubhouse’s Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2471 of the Italian Wine Podcast.  In this bonus episode, IWP producer Beatrice Motterle hosts an interactive discussion with Marco Ricasoli-Firidolfi of Rocca di Montegrossi in Gaiole, Chianti Classico. Marco answers questions from the Vinitaly International Academy community, offering his perspective on the wine market and pricing, blending varieties such as Pugnitello, his views on NOLO wines and related regulations in Italy. These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast.  More about today’s guest:   Rocca di Montegrossi is located in the heart of Chianti Classico, in the town of Monti in Chianti, within the municipality of Gaiole in Chianti, Tuscany. The winery is situated near the Romanesque church of San Marcellino, in an area characterized by rolling hills, limestone soils, and an altitude ranging from 340 to 510 meters above sea level. The fortress Rocca di Montegrossi was established by Geremia,

Welcome to Episode 2470 of the Italian Wine Podcast and Everybody Needs a Bit of Scienza, where Professor Scienza takes questions from the international wine community and answers them in his own inimitable way! These episodes are generally in Italian. Today’s question comes from Valeria Bianchin. Today’s question(s): 

Welcome to episode 2469 of the Italian Wine Podcast and a very special edition of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Today Marc celebrates four years of hosting his popular show, Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon, on the Italian Wine Podcast. Join Marc as he remembers some of his favourite guests and reflects on some of the best moments as he travels the length and breadth of Italy and beyond to discover the fascinating stories behind some of the world’s most iconic vineyards.   More about the host: Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel, boasting nearly 40 years of experience. Born in Mexico to a diverse family—his mother hailing from Hawaii via Korea and his father, an anthropologist, from New York via Paris—Marc was introduced to a rich tapestry of flavors from an early age. Together with his talented photographer wife, Kim, Marc has authored 14 acclaimed books, including the groundbreaking illustrated series The Wine

Welcome to Episode 2468 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Barbara Fitzgerald interviews Tyler Balliet of Rebel School of Wine, an entrepreneur, author, and innovator who has been reshaping how consumers experience wine. Key Takeaways: Using storytelling over education — focus on narratives, not lectures. Building confidence by making people feel comfortable with wine. Creating fun, engaging, and memorable experiences for consumers. More about the guest:  Tyler Balliet is an entrepreneur, author, and journalist who has been reshaping the wine industry since 2006. She is the author of Rebel School of Wine, nominated for a 2025 James Beard Book Award. Tyler created Rosé Mansion and Wine Riot, two groundbreaking wine experiences that drew more than half a million guests and redefined how a new generation connects with wine. A former Inc. Magazine 30 Under 30 and Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 honoree, she has judged international wine competitions, traveled extensively through global wine r

Welcome to the Next Generation and Episode 2467 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In today’s show McKenna Cassidy interviews the Italian oenologist and wine communicator, Charlotte Aondio.   More about today’s guest:  Charlotte Aondio is an Italian enologist and communicator passionate about giving voice to the new generation of wine professionals. During the first year of her Master’s degree in Viticulture and Enology, she founded Giovani Enoici, a podcast that tells the stories, challenges, and dreams of young people shaping the future of wine. Her work combines technical expertise with empathy and curiosity, bridging the gap between vineyards, wineries, and communication. Charlotte has collaborated with consulting firms, wineries, and educational projects, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and storytelling. She believes that wine is not only a product, but also culture, community, and dialogue — and she strives to create connections that inspire both professionals and consumers. Connect:   Instag

Welcome to Episode 2466 of the Italian Wine Podcast in which Jessica Dupuy interviews sommelier and wine content creator Amanda McCrossin at TEXSOM 2025. This episode focuses on social media content creation, including where to start,  imposter syndrome, choosing content and paid content. The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a Media Partner of TEXSOM for the second year in a row, supporting one of the most influential wine events in North America. Join us at TEXSOM 2025 as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top writers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals at this highly influential wine event. In this special series, Jessica will delve into the experiences and insights of key attendees, exploring career paths, challenges, and the latest trends in the wine industry. This special TEXSOM series is made possible thanks to the support of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Uncork Texas Wines program, celebrating and promoting the vibrant culture of Texas wine. More about t

Welcome to Book Club and Episode 2465 of the Italian Wine Podcast with Richard Hough. Today Richard is in conversation with Kevin Day, discussing his new book, Opening a Bottle: Italy Stories from the Heart of Italian Wine and 100 Wines to Admire.  In a wide-ranging conversation, Richard and Kevin discuss Kevin’s career in wine, the local wine scene in Colorado, the stories behind some of the remarkable Italian winemakers Kevin has encountered, and the challenges of self-publishing, as well as taking a deep dive into some of the “heroic” wine regions featured in Kevin’s book, including Etna. Kevin also explains the thinking behind his choice of Italy’s 100 most compelling wines. On the bookshelf: The books and authors discussed in today’s show include:  Opening a Bottle: Italy Stories from the Heart of Italian Wine and 100 Wines to Admire by Kevin Day. Available now at: https://www.openingabottle.com/. In the glass: The wine Kevin described in his third reading was La Marca di San Michele “Passol

Welcome to Clubhouse’s Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2464 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Matt Irwin IWA interviews Marco Ricasoli-Firidolfi of Rocca di Montegrossi from Gaiole in Chianti Classico. These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast.  Key Learning Objectives:   Gain a deeper understanding of the history of Chianti Classico and the legacy of the Ricasoli-Firidolfi family. Explore the current estate of Rocca di Montegrossi, including the opportunities and challenges of managing the historic “San Marcellino” vineyard. Examine how shifting environmental, economic, and industry dynamics are shaping viticulture, winemaking, and future directions for Chianti Classico. More about our Co-host:  Matt Irwin grew up in Brisbane, Australia and graduated with a Bachelor of Business in Hospitality Management before moving to Europe to work as a Tour Manager for Contiki Holidays. It was whilst living in Venice and leading tours throughout

Welcome to Episode 2463 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode of IWP On the Road Edition, Stevie Kim is in conversation with Lamberto Frescobaldi, President of UIV (the Italian Wine Union) and President of the Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi group. They discuss the recent developments on the long-awaited EU–Mercosur trade agreement, aimed at unlocking trade between the EU and South American bloc (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay). More about today’s guest:  Lamberto Frescobaldi is President of the Italian Wine Union, having been reappointed to the role by the UIV General Assembly on 3 July 2025. Founded in 1895, the union represents over 800 member companies, accounting for 50% of total wine revenue in Italy and more than 85% of Italian wine export revenue. Frescobaldi’s new three-year term begins at a crucial time for the sector, amid global challenges, structural transformations, and the commitment to competitively innovate the entire wine ecosystem.  Lamberto represents the 30th generation to lead

Welcome to episode 2462 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 208 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Today Marc’s guest is the leading Italian wine sommelier Nicoletta Gargiulo.   More about today’s guest: Nicoletta Gargiulo has built an extraordinary career in wine and fine dining. A professional sommelier since 2002, she worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in sommelier roles before winning the AIS (Associazione Italiana Sommelier) Regional Competition in May 2007 and later the prestigious Italian Sommelier Competition in October of the same year. From 2010 to 2022, she served three consecutive terms as President of AIS Campania while also teaching as a wine educator since 2005. Today, she continues her leadership as an AIS National Councilor. In April 2024, together with her husband, chef Luigi Tramontano, she opened her own restaurant, which was awarded one Michelin Star by November 2024. Connect: Website: https://www.aiscampania.it/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gargiulo_nicoletta

Welcome to Episode 2461 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Juliana Colangelo interviews the American wine industry market research guru John Gillespie to discuss the latest Wine Opinions research on 21–39 year-old consumers of alcoholic beverages, shedding light on trends, challenges, and opportunities for the wine sector. Key Takeaways: The main barriers preventing younger consumers from choosing wine. Strategies for wineries to better connect with younger audiences. Turning market research insights into practical, actionable steps for growth. More about the guest:  John Gillespie is the U.S. wine industry's most prominent market research authority. His career of nearly 50 years includes a more than twenty-year tenure as the President of Wine Market Council. He founded Wine Opinions in 2005 to provide the U.S. wine industry with consumer and trade insights vital to the growth and development of wine segments and brands. Prominent clients of Wine Opinions include numerous Italian wine

Welcome to Episode 2460 of the Italian Wine Podcast, Cotarella Confidential: A heart-to-heart with Enrica Cotarella. In this episode of IWP On the Road Edition, Stevie Kim is in conversation with Enrica Cotarella, head of marketing and PR at the Famiglia Cotarella.  Enrica explains the origins of the family business, Famiglia Cotarella; the role of the three "sisters", Dominga, Marta and Enrica, the third generation of the Cotarella family who now run the family business; the company's flagship labels; the importance of native/indigenous varieties; the philosophy behind the company's hospitality academy, Intrecci; and the work of the family's charitable foundation.    More about today’s guest:  Famiglia Cotarella’s winemaking roots date back to the 1960s, when Antonio and Domenico Cotarella, grape-growers in Monterubiaglio, built their first winery to produce their own wine. In 1979, the next generation, brothers Renzo and Riccardo Cotarella, founded Falesco in Montefiascone, northern Lazio, with the aim

Welcome to Episode 2459 of the Italian Wine Podcast in which Jessica Dupuy interviews the wine educator and sommelier Dilek Caner MW at TEXSOM 2025. The Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a Media Partner of TEXSOM for the second year in a row, supporting one of the most influential wine events in North America. Join us at TEXSOM 2025 as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top writers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals at this highly influential wine event. In this special series, Jessica will delve into the experiences and insights of key attendees, exploring career paths, challenges, and the latest trends in the wine industry. This special TEXSOM series is made possible thanks to the support of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Uncork Texas Wines program, celebrating and promoting the vibrant culture of Texas wine. More about today’s guest: Dilek Caner is a wine educator and has taught classes at Institute of Culinary Education, American Sommelier Association and he

Welcome to Episode 2458 and Episode 1 of The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass.   About Ryan Robinson: Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting Team, representing the United States and the World Wine Tasting Championships and holds the credentials of Advanced Sommel