Ep. 2530 Adriana Valentini of Monteverdi Tuscany Resort | Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon
Welcome to episode 2530 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 218 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Today Marc speaks with leading wine consultant and sommelier Adriana Valentini about Monteverdi Tuscany, where she shares insights into modern wine service, the evolving role of the sommelier, and how authentic communication can elevate every guest experience. More about today’s guest: Adriana Valentini is a multilingual wine and hospitality professional with over 15 years of international experience in luxury hotels, fine dining, and beverage management. An AIS Professional Sommelier since 2005 and WSET-certified, she has built a global career across Milan and London, specializing in wine programs, restaurant operations, purchasing, event planning, and team training. After leading wine programs in London, Adriana returned to Italy in 2024, consulting for Aethos Hotels and later serving as Wine Manager for Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio’s Triple Sea Food Group, overseeing restaurants in Milan, Portofino, and Forte dei Marmi. She also continued consulting in the UK, contributing to the opening of Voyage in King’s Cross with chef Adam Simmonds. She is currently the wine director of Monteverdi Tuscany, a luxury boutique hotel located between Rome and Florence that offers stunning panoramic views of the Val d'Orcia region of Tuscany. Connect: Website: https://monteverdituscany.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adrianair79/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriana-valentini-19a79v 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. Since 2021, he has been the engaging host of the “Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon” series on the Italian Wine Podcast. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the taste of history” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (this book won the Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025.Together with his talented photographer wife, Kim, Marc has authored 14 other 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 in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. 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!
18 Nov 39min
Ep. 2529 Next-Gen Italian Wine Producers with Giovanna Bagnasco of Agricola Brandini | Masterclass US Wine Market
Welcome to Episode 2529 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Juliana Colangelo meets Giovanna Bagnasco of the Agricola Brandini winery in Piedmont for a wide-ranging conversation about the estate’s evolution from its family history and conversion to organic farming, to the creative choices behind their labels, their approach to the US market, strategic partnerships, and the rise of Italy’s next generation of women in wine. Key Takeaways: A new generation of winegrowers: how young leaders like Giovanna are shaping the future of Piedmont. Entering the US wine market: what matters most from a producer’s point of view. Adapting to new consumers: trends, expectations, and how wineries can connect with the next generation of wine drinkers. More about the guest: Agricola Brandini is known for its organic Barolo and Piedmont wines, produced with a deep respect for tradition and the environment. The winery is known for its high-quality, terroir-driven wines, which are a result of its certified organic farming practices, the use of native grape varieties, and the direct supervision of every stage of production. It is a relatively young winery, but has quickly become a respected name in the Langhe region, also gaining recognition for their hospitality with the addition of the Coltivare Agri-Relais. In 2018, 19-year-old Giovanna Bagnasco took over the family-owned winery with her sister Serena and they have been running it ever since. Connect: Website: https://www.agricolabrandini.it/en/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agricolabrandini/ More about the host: Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022, Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/ Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/ _______________________________ 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!
17 Nov 23min
Ep. 2528 McKenna Cassidy interviews Liza and Lucas Grinstead of Grinsteads On The Wine | Next Generation
Welcome to the Next Generation and Episode 2528 of the Italian Wine Podcast. Today McKenna Cassidy interviews Liza and Lucas Grinstead of Grinsteads On The Vine to talk about their journey from wine newbies to content creators, exploring Italian vineyards, travel adventures, and life with their puppy, Nebbiolo. More about today’s guest: Grinsteads On The Vine is a social media account, run by Liza and Lucas Grinstead, that focuses on sharing recommendations for wine, travel, and dog-friendly lifestyles. Liza and Lucas create content about wine regions, vineyards, and restaurants, and often include their dog, Nebbiolo, in their posts. Their content includes travel tips, wine tasting notes, and dog-parenting lifestyle tips. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grinsteadsonthevine/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@grinsteadsonthevine More about the host: McKenna found her love of wine while serving in a Napa Valley tasting room. She later graduated from the University of Notre Dame and pursued wine on the East Coast with E. & J. Gallo Winery. She has worked in wine distribution for restaurants and luxury retail stores for the past three years. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, McKenna is a Certified Specialist of Wine (2021), Certified Sommelier (2022), and Italian Wine Ambassador (2023). She loves country swing dancing, hosting brunch parties, and sipping Italian wine. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mckennacassidy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-cassidy-cs-csw-66baa412b/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mckennacassidy _______________________________ 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!
16 Nov 44min
Ep. 2526 How Can a Liquid Taste Like Stone? | The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson
Welcome to Episode 2526 and Episode 5 of The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson. In this episode, Ryan explores the fascinating concept of minerality in wine through the lens of synesthesia, the way our senses intertwine to create meaning. Why do we describe wine as tasting like stone? What do we really mean when we say “minerality”? 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 Sommelier-CMS; WSET Diploma and WSET Educator in Wine, Sake and Beer; Rioja Wine Educator; VIA Italian Wine Ambassador; Wine Scholar Guild Educator and Italian and Spanish Wine Specialist; and Certified Scotch Whisky. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommryan/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sommryan/ The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza is available now at: https://mammajumboshrimp.com/products/the-art-of-wine-storytelling _______________________________ 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!
14 Nov 30min
Ep. 2525 Daisy Penzo IWA interviews Veronica Tommasini of Piccoli winery in Valpolicella | Clubhouse Ambassadors' Corner
Welcome to Clubhouse’s Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2525 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Daisy Penzo IWA interviews Veronica Tommasini of Piccoli winery in Valpolicella. Together, they explore the story of Piccoli Wines and the inspiring women behind the labels, while discussing the modern challenges and opportunities facing Italy’s new generation of winemakers. These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. More about today’s host: Daisy Penzo is an Italian-born wine professional, VIA Italian Wine Ambassador, and entrepreneur based in South Florida. As Sales Director for Vivino Selections, she leads U.S. market development for a growing portfolio of European wineries. She’s also the founder of Tuscany Wines Import and women-owned brand Fiori & Colori Wines, Daisy champions boutique producers and sustainable, value-driven wines that celebrate authenticity and accessibility. A certified Wine Scholar Guild educator with the Florida Wine Academy, she shares her passion for Italian wine at national trade events and seminars. Connect: Website: https://tuscanywinesimport.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-p-a48251139/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daisy_wines/ More about today’s guest: The Piccoli winery is located in Parona di Valpolicella. The winery is situated on Monte la Parte hill and specializes in red wines from the Valpolicella region, including Amarone, with a focus on indigenous grapes and a modern approach to winemaking that also respects tradition. It is known for its high-quality wines that express the characteristics of its terroir, and for being a female-run business with a strong connection to the land. Veronica Tommasini is a third-generation winemaker at Piccoli winery, where she continues the family business her grandmother started in the 1960s. Working alongside her sister Alice, she combines her passion for winemaking with her background in design, having created the company's logo and designed the wine tasting rooms. Connect Website: https://www.piccoliwine.it/en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piccoliwines _______________________________ 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!
13 Nov 20min
Ep. 2524 Tariffs and Trade with Blake Gray of Wine Searcher | Masterclass US Wine Market
Welcome to Episode 2524 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Juliana Colangelo reconnects with Blake Gray, the US Editor at Wine-Searcher, for a follow-up conversation diving deep into the current status of tariffs, the VOS Selections vs. Trump legal case, and their broader implications for the wine trade. Key Takeaways: The latest updates on the tariff situation. How tariffs are shaping the wine industry in the U.S. What these changes mean for Italian wine and its future in the American market. More about the guest: W. Blake Gray is an award-winning wine writer and the US Editor for Wine-Searcher. He is known for his work as a journalist, blogger, and speaker, with a career that includes roles as the former wine editor for the San Francisco Chronicle and food editor for SF Weekly. Gray has also written for publications like The Los Angeles Times and Food & Wine, and is the author of the Japanese-language guide "California Winetopia". Connect: Website: https://www.wine-searcher.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/w-blake-gray-69b4b91ab/ More about the host: Juliana Colangelo is a leading communications and marketing professional for the beverage alcohol industry. Currently, Juliana is a Senior Brand Manager at Frederick Wildman, where she is focused on building their Italian wine portfolio. Prior to that, she led the California Division as a Vice President at Colangelo & Partners, the leading wine and spirits communications agency in the U.S. for over 10 years. During her tenure at C&P, Juliana led the development of the California office, growing the agency’s domestic presence to a dedicated office of 15 people with representation of leading wine companies such as Jackson Family Wines, Far Niente, Charles Krug Winery, Foley Family Wines and more. Juliana has completed her WSET Level 3 and her eMBA in Wine Business with Sonoma State University. In 2021, Juliana was named one of PR News’ Top Women in PR in the “Rising Stars” category. In 2022, Juliana became a Vinitaly International Academy Italian Wine Ambassador. Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julezcolang/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/ Twitter: https://x.com/JulezColang LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-colangelo-mba-04345539/ _______________________________ 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!
12 Nov 18min
Ep. 2523 James MacNay IWA and Cinzia Long from MacNay Travel & Wine | Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon
Welcome to episode 2523 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 217 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Today Marc is in conversation with James MacNay and Cinzia Long from MacNay Travel & Wine, to talk about organizing wine tourism activities across Italy. More about today’s guests: James grew up in East Sussex, studied humanities, and holds both British and Italian passports. He began his career as a walking tour guide before moving into the wine and food trade. In 2016, alongside his partner Cinzia, he founded MacNay Travel & Wine, launching their first itinerary, Heart of the Italian Alps. A top-scoring Italian Wine Ambassador, James is among fewer than 500 IWAs worldwide. He also holds other wine qualifications and loves sharing his passion for Italian wine and culture through writing and public speaking. Cinzia, originally from Piemonte and raised in the high Alps of Valle d’Aosta, studied Forestry and Environmental Science at the University of Turin, where she wrote her thesis on the wild red squirrel population of Gran Paradiso National Park. In 2022, she and her family returned to Italy, settling in Torre Pellice, Piedmont. In June 2025, she began her journey to become a Master Cheese Taster, passing the first level with ONAF, Italy’s national organization for cheese experts. Connect Website: https://travelandwine.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macnay_travel_and_wine/ 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. Since 2021, he has been the engaging host of the “Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon” series on the Italian Wine Podcast. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the taste of history” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (this book won the Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025.Together with his talented photographer wife, Kim, Marc has authored 14 other 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 in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. 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!
11 Nov 35min
