Episodes

  • Ep 257 – Orvieto DOC: Italy’s Most Overlooked Wine Region Explained with Luisa Salussolia

    Ep 257 – Orvieto DOC: Italy’s Most Overlooked Wine Region Explained with Luisa Salussolia
    Apr 13 2026

    In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to Umbria, Italy’s “green heart”, to explore one of the country’s most underrated wine regions: Orvieto DOC.

    Joined by wine educator and ambassador Luisa Salussolia, this episode blends wine education, wine travel inspiration, and a deep dive into wine grapes that define the region. From volcanic soils and indigenous varieties like Grechetto and Procanico, to food pairings, tasting tips and travel advice, this is your guide to discovering Orvieto and expanding your understanding of Italian wine.

    If you’re looking to learn about wine, discover new regions and plan your next wine trip, this episode is for you.

    02:53 – Discovering Orvieto — why this underrated wine region deserves more attention.

    04:19 – The Umbrian landscape — a perfect destination for wine travel with history, nature and value.

    06:40 – Montefalco Sagrantino — one of Italy’s boldest red wine grapes.

    08:42 – Arnaldo Caprai and the wine that helped redefine this part of Italy.

    09:38 – Link back to the Episode 254 on Sangiovese and Brunello di Montalcino.

    11:11 – Becoming an Orvieto ambassador — combining wine education with real regional experience.

    12:36 – Why Orvieto DOC stands out — terroir, indigenous wine grapes and quality-driven producers.

    14:53 – Classico Superiore explained — what it means for quality and aging.

    15:53 – Historic wineries and Etruscan cellars — where history meets modern winemaking.

    17:56 – Grechetto explained — one of the key wine grapes shaping Orvieto wines.

    19:42 – Procanico (Trebbiano Toscano) — freshness, acidity and structure in the blend.

    21:28 – Understanding Trebbiano — why this family of wine grapes is so complex.

    22:20 – Tasting Decugnano dei Barbi 'Mare Antico' Orvieto Classico Superiore 2023 — texture, salinity and mineral expression. Buy with Eurowines.co.uk £22.99

    25:01 – Food pairings — truffles, wild boar and classic Umbrian dishes.

    27:32 – Tenuta Le Velette, Lunato, Orvieto Classico Superiore 2024 — volcanic soils and a savoury wine style.

    35:17 – Planning your trip — practical tips for wine travel in Orvieto.

    36:56 – Visiting wineries — authentic experiences in one of Italy’s hidden wine regions.

    38:30 – Regenerative viticulture — an important topic in modern wine education.

    41:30 – One key vineyard change — how no-till farming can impact wine quality.

    42:23 – Tasting tips — how to learn about wine through a structured approach.

    46:35 – Wine recommendations — discovering new regions and styles beyond the mainstream.

    48:41 – Final Old Vine wine picks — Bodega Cerron, La Calera del Escaramujo Monastrell and Nuits-St Georges, Rue de Chaux, 1er Cru, Domaine Chicotot, Burgundy

    📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

    Cheers to you 🥂

    THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

    RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025 and 2026) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    53 mins
  • Ep 256 – Australian Shiraz: Regions, Styles and the Future of Australia’s Iconic Grape with Huon Hooke

    Ep 256 – Australian Shiraz: Regions, Styles and the Future of Australia’s Iconic Grape with Huon Hooke
    Apr 6 2026
    In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, the wine podcast dedicated to wine education, Janina Doyle dives deep into the world of Australian Shiraz with one of the country’s most respected wine critics, Huon Hooke, lead reviewer for The Real Review. Together they explore the diversity of Shiraz across Australia’s most famous wine regions - from the powerful wines of Barossa Valley to the savoury elegance of Hunter Valley and the peppery character of Grampians. They also discuss the oldest Shiraz vines in the country, how soil and climate influence style, which regions offer the best value today and where the future of Australian Shiraz is heading. If you want to learn about wine, explore different wine grapes (with a few mentions of other varieties along the way, even though this episode focuses on Shiraz) and understand how climate and terroir shape flavour, this episode offers a fascinating journey through one of the world’s most iconic varieties. It’s also packed with insights for anyone planning wine travel in Australia or wanting to better understand the country’s diverse wine landscape. Whether you love bold, plush Shiraz or cooler-climate, spice-driven expressions, this episode is a perfect introduction to the remarkable range of Australian Shiraz. Shownotes 02:44 – What makes Australian Shiraz so distinctive and why it remains one of the country’s defining grape varieties. 04:18 – Huon Hooke shares how he first became interested in wine and how his career in wine reviewing began. 05:17 – The oldest producing Shiraz vineyards in Australia (Langmeil Vineyard) and what makes these historic vines so remarkable. 07:49 – The most expensive Australian Shiraz currently on release (Henske Hill of Grace) and the experience behind ultra-premium wines. 08:28 – A discussion about Torbreck, one of the most famous producers of Barossa Valley Shiraz. 09:41 – The oldest vintage of Australian Shiraz Huon has personally tasted and how Shiraz evolves over decades. 10:55 – Introducing the core theme of the episode: exploring Shiraz across Australia’s different wine regions. 13:45 – Which Australian Shiraz region may currently be the most underrated. 15:39 – Which regions may deliver the best value for money when buying Shiraz. 17:20 – If opening a bottle for a special occasion, which style or region Huon Hooke would personally choose. 18:55 – A closer look at Barossa Valley Shiraz and its signature bold fruit and rich structure. 21:12 – Comparing Eden Valley Shiraz and Barossa Valley Shiraz and how cooler conditions influence Shiraz style. 25:11 – How soil composition and geology shape the flavour and texture of Shiraz. 27:33 – Understanding the intensity of Shiraz and how different regions express power differently. 28:49 – Where Heathcote sits geographically within Victoria and its growing reputation for Shiraz. 30:49 – The role of Shiraz in Australian wine statistics and production. 33:51 – How Clare Valley Shiraz fits into the broader Australian Shiraz conversation. 36:00 – Grampians Shiraz and its distinctive spice-driven style and how it has evolved. 37:48 – The Canberra District and the effect of altitude and climate on Shiraz. 39:05 – The best wine regions to visit from Sydney for a weekend wine trip. 41:30 – Other emerging or lesser-known regions that deserve attention for Shiraz. 43:13 – The future of Australian Shiraz: trends in winemaking, blending and oak usage. 46:14 – How Huon Hooke’s wine reviewing career has evolved over the last two decades and how the Australian wine scene has changed. 49:01 – What wine lovers can find on The Real Review, including top wine lists and best-value bottles. 50:36 – Why Shiraz remains such a joyful and versatile grape variety and why we should all be drinking more of it. 53:56 – Next week: Janina heads to Sicily to explore Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG. Wineries Suggested for a comparison tasting Torbreck Shiraz (Barossa Valley) Mount Langi Ghiran Shiraz (Grampians) Tyrrell’s Shiraz (Hunter Valley) 📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    56 mins
  • Ep 255 - Vittoria Wine Region, Sicily - Organic Wine, Indigenous Grapes & Sicilian Wine Travel with Stefano Girelli of Santa Tresa

    Ep 255 - Vittoria Wine Region, Sicily - Organic Wine, Indigenous Grapes & Sicilian Wine Travel with Stefano Girelli of Santa Tresa
    Mar 30 2026
    In this episode of the Eat Sleep Wine Repeat wine podcast, Janina heads to Vittoria in the south of Sicily to explore one of Italy’s most exciting and evolving wine regions. Joined by Stefano Girelli of Santa Tresa and Cortese, this episode blends wine education with a deep dive into organic viticulture, biodiversity, and the future of wine grapes in a warming climate. From indigenous Sicilian varieties to experimental vineyards preserving rare grapes, you’ll learn about wine through both tradition and innovation. And if you’re dreaming of wine travel, this episode might just inspire your next trip to Sicily. 05:28 – An introduction to Santa Tresa and Cortese, and how the two estates differ in style, philosophy and wine expression. 08:24 – Travel tips for visiting Vittoria, including why Ragusa is an ideal and authentic place to stay when exploring the region. 09:27 – Why Vittoria still feels like a hidden gem compared to more famous Sicilian destinations, offering a more authentic wine travel experience. 11:39 – A fun dive into the portfolio: which wine is perfect for a romantic proposal or special celebration (Il Frappatto Sparkling). 12:41 – The ideal wine for a day at the beach (Grillo-Viognier) highlighting fresh, vibrant styles that suit Sicily’s coastal lifestyle (or a chilled Frappato). 14:19 – Wines for colder moments: richer, more structured styles that work perfectly by the fireplace. (Cerasuolo di Vittoria) 16:05 – The reality of going organic in Sicily, including the challenges, strict regulations and why many considered it a bold move. 18:04 – What does “organic” really mean in wine? Stefano's personal definition. 21:58 – How to recognise an organic or biodiverse vineyard just by walking through it, with practical visual clues for wine lovers. 24:03 – A return to traditional farming methods, and how modern viticulture is rediscovering practices from the past. 29:24 – Adapting to climate change: vineyard techniques such as shading, trellising and how they impact grape ripening. 31:17 – The scale of experimentation: dozens of indigenous and rare grape varieties being cultivated and studied. 33:59 – The search for the grapes of the future, and how forgotten Sicilian varieties may become key in a warming world. 37:31 – Albanello: a rediscovered white grape variety with distinctive herbal, minty and fresh characteristics. 39:54 – What will we be drinking in the future? A broader discussion on how climate change is reshaping wine regions and grape selection. 41:10 – Understanding Cerasuolo di Vittoria, Sicily 's only DOCG, and how Nero d’Avola and Frappato work together in the blend. 45:23 – Comparing styles between producers and estates, including differences in structure, fruit profile and winemaking approach. 48:37 – How different winemaking techniques affect tannin structure and texture in the final wine. 50:26 – The impact of fermentation and aging choices on flavour, colour and overall wine style. 52:35 – A look at key Sicilian wine grapes, including both well-known and lesser-known varieties. 54:44 – Catarratto Lucido and other white grapes that deserve more attention in Sicily’s evolving wine scene. 56:14 – Final reflections from Stefano on the philosophy behind the estate and the future direction of their wines. 58:56 – Why this region and these wines are worth discovering. 59:40 – A unique white blend (Vanedda) made with extended skin contact, fermented like a red wine to build structure, texture and ageing potential. 01:00:43 – Visit Santa Tresa & book a wine experience 📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Ep 254 - Brunello di Montalcino Wine: Terroir, Clones & Aging Potential | Italian Wine Education with Ian D’Agata

    Ep 254 - Brunello di Montalcino Wine: Terroir, Clones & Aging Potential | Italian Wine Education with Ian D’Agata
    Mar 23 2026
    In this episode of the wine podcast, Janina dives into one of Italy’s most prestigious and age-worthy wines: Brunello di Montalcino. Joined by Italian wine expert Ian D’Agata, this episode blends wine education with a deep exploration of wine regions, helping you learn about wine through the lens of Sangiovese. From wine grapes and clonal diversity to terroir, aging potential and tasting profiles, you’ll discover what makes Brunello unique and how this iconic Tuscan wine compares to others made from the same grape. Plus, if you love wine travel, you’ll hear about an immersive opportunity to study wine directly in Montalcino, tasting up to 100 wines with producers in the region. To find out more about joining The Ian D’Agata Wine Academy in Montalcino on 16th, 17th & 18th April 2026 click here. Or email Giulia Corino For those attending the Ian D’Agata Wine Academy, there will be a special guest speaker session led by Maddy Jimerson MS, Master Sommelier and Director of Casa Mia in Denver. With a strong connection to Alto Piemonte, where she regularly spends time, Maddy will be guiding an in-depth session focused on the wines of this fascinating region of Italy. SHOWNOTES: 02:52 – Ian explains why wine education is so important, sharing how great teachers shaped his career and why helping people understand wine makes a real difference. 05:56 – Why most people stick to familiar wines - and how learning about lesser-known Italian grape varieties can completely change how you choose a bottle. 10:00 – Looking beyond Brunello and Barolo, Ian highlights powerful Italian red wine grapes like Aglianico that deserve more attention. 11:02 – Introduction to Ian’s Wine Academy in Montalcino, where small groups taste up to 100 wines while learning directly in the region. 14:12 – Setting the scene in Tuscany: the rolling hills, vineyards and landscapes that make Montalcino one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. 15:56 – Key differences between Montalcino and Chianti wine regions, and how climate and landscape shape completely different expressions of Sangiovese. 17:04 – Can you identify Sangiovese wines in a blind tasting? A breakdown of how blends, climate and structure influence the final wine style. 20:57 – The origin of the name “Brunello” and how a specific type of Sangiovese gave rise to this iconic wine. 24:42 – Exploring the complexity of Sangiovese: over 100 clones and how producers select and combine them to improve quality. 26:57 – What it means for a vine to be “virus-affected” and why this can sometimes lead to more concentrated, higher-quality wines. 29:11 – How to recognise Sangiovese in the glass: red fruit, acidity, tannins and the characteristic herbal and floral notes. 31:56 – The aging requirements of Brunello di Montalcino and why these wines can develop beautifully over decades. 34:32 – Castiglion del Bosco: a historic estate that has significantly increased its quality in recent years and plays a role in Ian’s course. 35:49 – Rosso di Montalcino explained: a more accessible, earlier-drinking style that offers great value from the same region. 39:46 – The key soil types of Montalcino (galestro, alberese and more) and how they influence structure, minerality and mouthfeel. 41:11 – What the course experience looks like day-to-day, from tastings and classes to winery visits and shared meals. 42:09 – Moscadello di Montalcino: the lesser-known sweet wine of the region that still survives today. 44:54 – The range of wines tasted during the course, covering multiple Italian wine regions, styles and grape varieties. 47:49 – Who the course is designed for: both wine professionals and enthusiasts who want to deepen their wine knowledge. 50:46 – Course dates and availability, including upcoming sessions in April and November. 52:24 – How the course aligns with major wine events like Vinitaly, making it ideal for those already travelling in Italy. 53:27 – How to get more information and book your place on the course. Email Giulia Corino and more details on Ian D’Agata’s website. 📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you! 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    58 mins
  • Ep 253 - Rhône Valley Wine Region | French Wine Deep Dive for WSET Diploma D3

    Ep 253 - Rhône Valley Wine Region | French Wine Deep Dive for WSET Diploma D3
    Mar 16 2026

    In this flashcard-style wine education podcast episode, Janina takes a deep dive into the Rhône Valley, exploring the climate, terroir, wine grapes, and AOCs that define both the Northern and Southern Rhône. Designed to support students preparing for the WSET Diploma theory exam, this episode focuses on the key facts, yields, blending rules, and appellation regulations essential for understanding one of France’s most important wine regions.

    While structured for exam preparation, it’s also ideal for anyone who wants to learn about wine in a focused, detailed way - whether you’re studying formally, strengthening your professional knowledge, exploring wine travel, or simply keen to deepen your understanding of French wine.

    A rigorous, well-organised exploration of the geography, regulations, and styles that shape the Rhône Valley - created for serious learners and curious wine lovers alike.

    💡 Want more flashcard-style episodes? Previously, Janina has also produced episodes to help with Fortified Wine and Sparkling Wine exams. You can find them here:

    Ep 256 Languedoc- Roussillon

    Ep 113: Shery, VdNs, Rutherglen Muscat

    Ep 120: Port & Madeira

    Ep 129: Sparkling Wine Production

    Ep 136: Champagne

    Ep 142: All other sparkling wines

    Shownotes

    00:01:45 – Climatic differences between Northern and Southern Rhône 00:04:15 – Grape Varieties Overview 00:05:15 – Grenache Noir 00:08:15 – Syrah 00:09:45 – Mourvèdre 00:11:45 – Cinsault 00:13:15 – Viognier 00:14:45 – Marsanne 00:16:00 – Roussanne 00:17:30 – Grenache Blanc 00:18:15 – Clairette 00:19:15 – Bourboulenc 00:20:00 – Northern Rhône – Climate & Overview 00:21:15 – Côte-Rôtie AOC 00:25:00 – Condrieu & Château-Grillet AOC 00:27:20 – Saint-Joseph AOC 00:29:30 – Crozes-Hermitage AOC 00:32:45 – Hermitage AOC 00:36:30 – Cornas AOC 00:38:10 – Saint-Péray AOC 00:39:15 – IGP Collines Rhodaniennes 00:40:10 – Southern Rhône – Climate & Overview 00:41:20 – Southern Rhône – Appellation Hierarchy 00:42:50 – Côtes du Rhône AOC 00:44:20 – Côtes du Rhône Villages AOC 00:46:00 – Gigondas AOC 00:47:25 – Vacqueyras AOC 00:48:15 – Vinsobres AOC 00:50:05 – Rasteau AOC 00:51:25 – Cairanne AOC 00:52:05 – Beaumes-de-Venise AOC 00:52:45 – Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC 00:57:45 – Lirac AOC 00:58:30 – Tavel AOC 01:00:15 – Satellite AOCs Overview 01:00:30 – Costières de Nîmes AOC 01:01:30 – Grignan-les-Adhémar AOC 01:02:00 – Ventoux AOC 01:03:20 – Luberon AOC 01:04:10 – Southern Rhône IGP Wines

    📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

    THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

    RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025)

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Ep 252 - Ungrafted Vines, Phylloxera & Old Vines: The Science of Wine Grafting with Jamie Goode

    Ep 252 - Ungrafted Vines, Phylloxera & Old Vines: The Science of Wine Grafting with Jamie Goode
    Mar 9 2026

    In this episode, Janina takes us deep into one of the most dramatic stories in wine history - the arrival of phylloxera in 19th century Europe - and explores how that crisis continues to shape the wines we drink today.

    She is joined by Jamie Goode - wine writer, judge, lecturer and author with a PhD in plant biology - to unpack the science behind grafting, the myth and magic of old vines, forgotten grape varieties, and whether ungrafted vines truly produce better wines.

    From Japan’s wax paper “hats” protecting grape bunches, to Barossa’s centenarian vineyards, to modern disease-resistant varieties like Voltis and Floréal, this episode blends history, science and future-facing viticulture in one fascinating conversation.

    If you’ve ever wondered whether ungrafted vines are superior, what actually happens during grafting, or how climate change might reshape grape varieties - this is your episode.

    02:59 – The most surprising wine region Jamie has visited so far is Japan’s with it’s unique vineyard practices.

    04:45 – Koshu explained - is it Japan’s most exciting grape variety, or are international grapes performing better?

    06:38 – Behind the scenes of filming The Science of Wine (available to watch on WinemastersTV or Prime Video) - vineyards, Mosel landscapes and the unexpected challenges of production.

    09:54 – Composing the soundtrack on the spot - Jamie’s spontaneous vineyard music recordings.

    10:41 – Ungrafted vines: are they genuinely better, or is the answer more nuanced?

    15:24 – The phylloxera story step by step - how one 19th-century plant import reshaped global wine.

    20:53 – Forgotten varieties and whether they could make a comeback in the face of climate change.

    22:46 – Loïc Pasquet (Liber Pater) and the revival of pre-phylloxera Bordeaux varieties.

    29:04 – Francs de Pied movement - preserving ungrafted vineyards and the debate around their relevance.

    31:21 – EU regulations and why planting ungrafted vines is often restricted.

    31:55 – Rootstock resistance failures in California and Australia - are we facing new phylloxera risks?

    34:33 – Soil microbiome experiments - could beneficial microorganisms protect ungrafted vines?

    36:20 – How do you graft a vine? Omega grafts, English grafts and T-bud grafting explained.

    40:49 – Inside a vine nursery - what really happens behind the scenes.

    42:23 – Old vines vs young vines - do older vines truly produce better wines?

    46:05 – Why old vines often yield less fruit - aging, pruning and vine physiology.

    47:25 – Recommended wines from ungrafted and old vines - Barossa, Chile, Argentina and beyond.

    49:09 – At-home wine experiments - blending your own Bordeaux-style wine and even propagating vine cuttings.

    51:28 – What’s next for Jamie - new book releases and upcoming projects.

    52:37 – Links to Jamie’s books and further reading.

    53:21 – Next week: Deep Dive Flashcards - The Rhône Valley.

    Have you tasted wines from ungrafted vines - a true pied franc? Did they feel purer, more transparent… or is that simply romance in the glass?

    📩 Email: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

    Cheers to you 🥂

    THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

    RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    54 mins
  • Ep 251 - Petit Arvine & the Hidden Grapes of Valais: DNA Discoveries and World-Class Swiss Syrah with José Vouillamoz

    Ep 251 - Petit Arvine & the Hidden Grapes of Valais: DNA Discoveries and World-Class Swiss Syrah with José Vouillamoz
    Mar 2 2026

    In this episode, Janina travels to Switzerland’s Valais – a dramatic Alpine region that is home to one of the highest concentrations of indigenous grape varieties in the world.

    She is joined by José Vouillamoz, leading authority on grape origins and DNA profiling, co-author of Wine Grapes, and author of Swiss Grapes, to explore Valais’ ancient varieties, genetic mysteries, heroic viticulture and why this small region quietly produces some of the world’s best Syrah.

    From Petit Arvine and Amigne to Cornalin, Humagne Rouge and age-worthy Chasselas (Fendant), this is a fascinating deep dive into Swiss wine history, science and flavour.

    02:59 The coolest fact about Valais - the world’s smallest vineyard owned by the Dalai Lama.

    05:21 Janina links back to her episode (Ep 75) on the most unique vineyards in the world.

    05:59 Why Valais is genetically unique - indigenous grapes found nowhere else.

    07:22 Is Valais the most concentrated region for native grape varieties?

    10:01 The Alpine landscape - terraces, dry stone walls and heroic viticulture.

    12:22 Where to begin with indigenous grapes - Petit Arvine explained.

    14:02 Angelo Gaja’s failed attempt to plant Arvine in Piemonte.

    15:47 Arvine vs Petit Arvine – understanding the naming confusion.

    16:51 How producers label Arvine today - Petit Arvine or simply Arvine?

    17:20 The rare Gross Arvine - what it is and why it almost disappeared.

    19:14 What does Gross Arvine taste like?

    19:58 Amigne - Valais’ misunderstood chameleon grape.

    21:15 The bee-label system that indicates sweetness levels in Amigne wines.

    22:24 Heida (Savagnin/Païen/Traminer) - is it indigenous to Valais?

    24:07 Can you identify Valais Heida in a blind tasting?

    26:21 Other white grapes worth seeking out - Humagne Blanc and Rèze.

    28:57 Chasselas (Fendant) - why it plays such an important role in Valais.

    31:19 The ageing mystery - how low-acid Chasselas can evolve for decades.

    33:10 Humagne Blanc vs Humagne Rouge - is there a genetic connection?

    36:04 Cornalin (Rouge du Pays) - why this red is worth discovering.

    38:28 Humagne Rouge - flavour profile and distinctive character.

    39:35 Syrah in Valais - why this may be its northern quality limit.

    45:26 If you try only one grape from Valais - which should it be?

    46:15 Must-visit spots - Zermatt, the Matterhorn, Aletsch Glacier and Visperterminen vineyards.

    49:26 The food to try - authentic Swiss raclette and ideal wine pairings.

    51:23 José’s book Swiss Grapes and the upcoming updated edition.

    Follow José Vouillamoz on Instagram for more insights into Swiss wine, grape genetics and fascinating discoveries from the world of viticulture.

    📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

    Cheers to you 🥂

    THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

    RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    54 mins
  • Ep 250 - Beyond Nebbiolo: Nascetta, Pelaverga, Freisa & The Hidden Gems of the Langhe with Agnese Gintere

    Ep 250 - Beyond Nebbiolo: Nascetta, Pelaverga, Freisa & The Hidden Gems of the Langhe with Agnese Gintere
    Feb 23 2026

    After diving deep into Nebbiolo in Episode 248, Janina knew it was time to go further into Piemonte - but this time beyond Barolo and Barbaresco.

    In this episode, she’s joined by Baltic wine expert and educator Agnese Gintere to explore the lesser-known indigenous grapes of the Langhe. From the so-called “white Barolo” Nascetta to Pelaverga, Freisa, Dolcetto, Barbera, Arneis and Favorita, this is a love letter to the region’s unsung heroes.

    Expect producer recommendations, travel tips, value alternatives to Barolo - and yes, a little Nebbiolo obsession too.

    04:04 Why Langhe? The recent rise of Barolo & Barbaresco and why the region feels magical.

    06:04 Falling in love with Langhe - the wines first, then the fog, hills and landscape.

    08:33 If not Nebbiolo, then what? The real unsung hero grapes of Langhe.

    10:31 Nascetta explained - the so-called “white Barolo” and its revival from near extinction.

    12:45 What Agnese learned about Nascetta’s history and ageing potential.

    15:05 Pelaverga - the sommelier’s insider grape with earthy, herbal character.

    17:17 Pelaverga experimentation - sparkling styles and white versions.

    18:53 Freisa - Nebbiolo’s close relative and its quiet revival.

    23:27 Dolcetto - “little sweet one” or gentle hills? Style, structure and best areas to explore.

    26:45 Dogliani DOCG, ageing potential and value bottles.

    28:47 Barbera - plush fruit, high alcohol and the future of north-facing slopes.

    31:49 Link to Janina’s previous podcast episode (Ep 166) featuring Braida (Barbera specialists).

    33:12 Respecting terroir - why Barbera and Nebbiolo shouldn’t compete for the same vineyard sites.

    33:46 White grapes of Langhe - Arneis vs Favorita (aka Vermentino).

    37:05 Agnese’s must-visit place - Serralunga d’Alba and the magic of the hills.

    39:51 Best-value Nebbiolo outside Barolo & Barbaresco - Roero, Gattinara and Ghemme.

    41:08 A magical winery visit - Enrico Rivetto and other iconic estates.

    41:33 Estates mentioned - Rivetto, Gaja and Aldo Conterno.

    44:06 Best time to visit Langhe - truffle season vs early autumn.

    46:17 If you could only drink one non-Nebbiolo Langhe wine - Grignolino (“baby Nebbiolo”).

    49:42 Next week - Switzerland, Chasselas, Petit Arvine and DNA expert José Vouillamoz.

    Watch Agnese's YouTube Channel No Sediment HERE.

    📩 Questions or feedback? janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

    Cheers to you 🥂

    THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot.

    RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list
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    51 mins