Ep. 2436 Massimo Alois of Cantine Alois in Campania | Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon

Welcome to Episode 2269 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Barbara Fitzgerald interviews Ellie Mullins, an American wine retailer and entrepreneur, who shares insights on running a successful independent wine shop in the Midwest. Key takeaways: Local Market Trends: Key factors in selecting wines for retail Retailer-Importer Partnerships: How strong relationships drive wine sales Independent Wine Business: Challenges and strategies for success in the American Midwest. More about the guest:  Ellie Mullins is a passionate wine entrepreneur with a talent for connecting people with exceptional wines. With over 20 years of experience, she started her career in renowned California restaurants before transitioning into wine retail.  Wine is deeply rooted in her family—her brother is a Sonoma winemaker, her sister-in-law, Barbara Fitzgerald, is an Italian Wine Ambassador, and her parents are grape growers. Connect: Website: https://pebottleshop.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pebottleshop/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pebottleshop/ More about the host: Barbara Fitzgerald  With nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald is a leader in D2C wine marketing, business strategy, and brand growth. Coming from a 4th-generation Italian-American winemaking family, she has spent her life immersed in wine growing, production, and hospitality, gaining experience across top California wineries. As an Italian Wine Ambassador, Barbara bridges the gap between Italian and U.S. wine markets, helping wineries develop consumer-focused strategies through Apri La Creative Consulting. She also co-owns a boutique wine production company and an Italian wine import business, blending her passion for authentic winemaking with modern marketing expertise. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilabottiglia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/ Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast    If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/   Until next time, Cin Cin!

3 Maalis 26min

Welcome to the Next Generation and Episode 2268 of the Italian Wine Podcast. Today, Giulia Stocchetti interviews the award-winning sommelier and educator Marvella Castaneda. Together, they dive into Marvella's current projects, food and wine pairings, as well as WSET Diploma studies and art. More about today’s guest:  Marvella Castaneda brings almost 15 years of expertise in the restaurant industry, including in Michelin-starred establishments and as part of the opening team for a 976-room hotel in downtown Atlanta. In 2023, she was honored with the prestigious Star Chefs Rising Star Sommelier Award, recognizing her ability to deliver an exceptional experience in food and wine pairings. She is currently the wine director for Capital City Club. As a WSET Diploma candidate and a nominee for 2024 Wine Educator of the Year, Marvella is deeply passionate about wine education. While she has a profound love for Italian wines, her expertise extends to curating programs that showcase excellent wines from all over the world. She is dedicated to discovering producers who deliver not only quality but also compelling stories and unforgettable experiences.  Connect:  Website: https://www.drawntowineofficial.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marvellacastaneda/ More about today’s host: Giulia is an AIS Sommelier and holds the WSET Diploma. She has 360° experience in the cellar, harvesting, tasting and teaching. Enthusiastic communicator of wine, she believes every bottle is a small universe to discover and her slogan is “sharing wine means love.” She’s passionate about terroir wines made with autochthonous grape varieties and constantly looking for them and their small producers. Connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giulia.caravaggi/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinesoulgirl/?hl=en  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giulia-stocchetti-caravaggi-58a54ab0/  _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin!

2 Maalis 24min

Welcome to Episode 2267 in which Jessica Dupuy interviews Austin-based Sommelier Ali Schmidt, Wine Director for Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group and Pullman Market. Italian Wine Podcast is a proud media partner of Barolo & Barbaresco World Opening and is pleased to present this series of interviews recorded for this year’s event. The fourth edition of the Barolo & Barbaresco World Opening (BBWO) takes place in Austin, Texas on 25 March 2025. This year, the spotlight shines on three southwestern states, with educational events and dedicated tastings taking place in Dallas, Houston, Austin and San Antonio in Texas as well as Phoenix, Arizona; and Denver, Colorado throughout February 2025. Join us as Texas-based wine journalist Jessica Dupuy interviews top writers, journalists, sommeliers, and wine professionals at this renowned 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. More about today’s guest: Ali Schmidt is the Wine Director for Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group and Pullman Market, based in Austin, Texas. As an Advanced Sommelier, she expertly oversees the wine programs and education for several acclaimed establishments, including Hestia, Emmer & Rye, Canje, Ezov, and Kalimotxo in Austin. In San Antonio, Ali manages Pullman Market, a specialty grocer focused on Texas products, along with restaurants such as Isidore, Ladino, Fife & Farro, Mezquite, and Nicosi. With her extensive knowledge and passion for wine, Ali plays a pivotal role in enhancing the culinary experiences at these establishments. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alischmidt__/   More about today’s host: Jessica Dupuy is a seasoned writer covering wine, spirits, and travel from Austin, Texas. She holds a Diploma from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and is a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, as well as a Certified Specialist of Wine and Spirits from the Society of Wine Educators. Her work has been featured in prestigious publications, including Food & Wine, Wine Enthusiast, Imbibe, Texas Monthly, Forbes, SevenFifty Daily, GuildSomm, VinePair, and Southern Living. Jessica is the author of The Wines of Southwest USA and six regional cookbooks. Additionally, she co-hosts the podcast Another Bottle Down, where she shares her insights and passion for the world of wine.   Connect: Website: https://www.jessicadupuy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicandupuy/ Twitter: https://x.com/jessicandupuy _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin!

1 Maalis 32min

Welcome to Episode 2266 of the Italian Wine Podcast coming live from the Grandi Langhe 2025 in Piedmont. Today’s guest is Wojciech Bonkowski MW, a renowned wine writer and consultant. As the official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e Il Piemonte Del Vino 2025—Piedmont’s premier wine event. Join top producers, buyers, and experts as they explore emerging styles, vineyard innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes access, revealing Piedmont’s impact on the global wine stage. More about today’s guest:  Wojciech Bońkowski is a prominent wine writer from Poland with an MA in Italian literature and a PhD in musicology from the University of Warsaw. His book, Chopin Gourmet, published by the Chopin Institute in 2010, explores the favorite foods and wines of the composer. After working in London, Wojciech returned to Poland, publishing eight books and founding the leading wine website, Winicjatywa (2012), and the magazine Ferment (2017). The Ferment media group now includes a wine events agency, school, and publishing house. An internationally recognized writer, consultant, and judge at events like the Decanter World Wine Awards, Wojciech served as President of the Polish Wine Trade Association (2015–2022) and is a member of the Académie Internationale du Vin. He focuses on wines from Italy, Greece, Austria, Central and Eastern Europe, as well as Poland's growing industry, Port, Madeira, Champagne, gin, and rum. Connect: Website: https://www.instagram.com/bonkowskimw/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wbonkowski/ _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  If you feel like helping us, donate here https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin!

28 Helmi 8min

Welcome to Episode 2265, where we present a session recording from the wine2wine Business Forum 2024. Today’s session is entitled “Generative AI: Big Possibilities and Unexpected Pitfalls with Felicity Carter”. Italian Wine Podcast is proud to be a media partner of wine2wine Business Forum and is pleased to present this series of market-focus sessions, recorded in Verona in November 2024. wine2wine Business Forum is an international wine business event held annually in Verona, Italy since 2014. The event is a key reference point for wine producers and wine professionals from around the world, providing an opportunity to network, develop and expand their wine business worldwide. Find more about the session at:  https://www.vinitaly.com/en/events-calendar/wine2wine/ticket-wine2wine-business-forum-2024/generative-ai-big-possibilities-and-unexpected-pitfalls/ _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin!

27 Helmi 21min

Welcome to Episode 2264 of the Italian Wine Podcast and Ambassadors’ Corner on Clubhouse. In this episode Italian Wine Ambassador Michele Longari IWA interviews Francesco Assini of Ca’ Stelle Winery. Nestled in the heart of the Campania region, Ca’ Stelle is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Today’s learning objectives: To explore the historic varieties of Castelvenere and its winemaking traditions. To understand the challenges faced by wine producers, both historically and recently. To reflect on the significance of modern and innovative business management strategies in the wine industry. Co-Moderator – Michele Longari Ten years ago, Michele Longari was a Computer Engineer in Emilia Romagna, Italy, but his true passion for wine and food inspired him to explore Italy’s culinary traditions. He enrolled in the professional sommelier diploma course with the Italian Sommelier Association, initially without plans to take the final exams. However, as his love for wine grew, he completed his AIS Sommelier Diploma in 2013. That same year, Michele moved to the UK to pursue an MSc in Wine Business Management at the Royal Agricultural University. While finishing his dissertation, he joined Hay Wines, an independent British wine merchant. Now, eight years later, he serves as Purchasing Director, responsible for purchasing strategy and imports management. Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheletlongari/ Website: https://haywines.co.uk/    About the guest: Francesco Assini’s journey in the world of wine began in his family’s vineyards, where a deep passion for winemaking took root. Growing up surrounded by dedicated wine producers, Francesco developed a love for the craft of transforming grapes into exquisite wines. His commitment to personal and professional growth led him to earn a Bachelor’s in Management and a Master’s in International Business, studying in various renowned locations, including Benveneto, Joensuu (Finland), Parma, and Vilnius (Lithuania). Before returning to his family’s winery, Ca’Stelle, Francesco gained valuable experience in financial consulting at Deloitte. However, the traditional office environment and limited responsibilities did not align with his ambitious vision for the future. Today, Francesco is dedicated to Ca’Stelle, focusing on expanding the winery’s exports and integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into its operations. His innovative approach aims to not only elevate the winery's success but also contribute positively to the environment and community. Connect: Website: https://www.castelle.it/en/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-assini/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/castelleviticultori/?hl=it _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin! Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions!  Psssst…FYI this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

27 Helmi 41min

Welcome to episode 2263 of the Italian Wine Podcast, and episode 180 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Marc’s guest today is Pierguido Ceste, , fourth-generation owner of Ceste Winery and chairman of PIWI Piemonte, leading the charge for resistant grape varieties in the region. More about today’s guest: Pierguido Ceste is a fourth-generation winemaker and the chairman of PIWI Piemonte, an association dedicated to promoting resistant grape varieties and sustainable viticulture in Piedmont. As the owner of Ceste Winery, a 36-hectare estate, he balances tradition and innovation, producing classic Barbera, Nebbiolo, Arneis, and Moscato, alongside natural wines, Pet-Nat, orange wines, and dried-grape varieties. In 2010, Ceste Winery became the first in Piedmont to plant PIWI grapes, pioneering the movement for eco-friendly and disease-resistant wines despite challenges from regulators and industry traditionalists. His passion for pushing boundaries in winemaking has made him a sought-after speaker among producers and sommeliers. Beyond classic Piedmontese wines, Ceste's creations include "Tubleu" Langhe Rosso, a unique blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Barbera, as well as a growing selection of PIWI-based wines. Join us as we explore his innovative approach to viticulture, sustainability, and the future of winemaking in Italy. Connect: Website: https://www.cestevini.com/it/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cantina_ceste/ More about the host Marc Millon: 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 Roads of Europe, The Wine Roads of France, The Wine Roads of Italy (winner of the Premio Barbi Colombini), and The Wine Roads of Spain. His other notable works include The Wine and Food of Europe, The Food Lovers’ Companion Italy, The Food Lovers’ Companion France, and Wine: A Global History. In addition to his writing, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy and France in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. Since 2021, he has also been the engaging host of the “Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon” series on the Italian Wine Podcast. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England. Connect: Website:  https://www.quaypress.uk   https://www.marcmillon.co.uk  https://www.vino.co.uk    https://www.quaypress.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon  _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast  If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/  Until next time, Cin Cin! Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

25 Helmi 34min

Welcome to Episode 2262 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Barbara Fitzgerald interviews Justin Noland, Vice President of Digital Experience at Treasury Americas (Treasury Wine Estates), to explore how AI is revolutionizing wine marketing and customer engagement.  Key takeaways:  AI & Personalized Marketing – How artificial intelligence is reshaping the wine industry. Agentic AI & Customer Experience – The next big trend in digital interaction. AI Ethics in Marketing – Balancing innovation and responsibility. More about the guest:  Justin Noland is the Vice President of Digital Experience for Treasury Americas at Treasury Wine Estates, one of the world’s leading wine companies. A digital marketing strategist and AI-driven customer experience expert, Justin is at the forefront of wine industry innovation, leveraging technology, data, and AI to enhance brand engagement and consumer interaction. With extensive experience in e-commerce, omnichannel marketing, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategies, he works to revolutionize digital transformation in wine business models. His approach is channel-agnostic, allowing brands to create personalized experiences, deepen customer relationships, and drive seamless online and offline interactions. Connect: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-n-40961a10/  More about the host: Barbara Fitzgerald With nearly two decades in the wine industry, Barbara Fitzgerald is a leader in D2C wine marketing, business strategy, and brand growth. Coming from a 4th-generation Italian-American winemaking family, she has spent her life immersed in wine growing, production, and hospitality, gaining experience across top California wineries. As an Italian Wine Ambassador, Barbara bridges the gap between Italian and U.S. wine markets, helping wineries develop consumer-focused strategies through Apri La Creative Consulting. She also co-owns a boutique wine production company and an Italian wine import business, blending her passion for authentic winemaking with modern marketing expertise. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilabottiglia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-fitzgerald-iwa/ Website: https://www.aprilacreative.com _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast  Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast    If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/   Until next time, Cin Cin!

24 Helmi 43min