Ep. 18 Monty Waldin interviews Deborah Brenner of Women of the Vine and Spirits | Italian Wine Personalities

Welcome to Episode 2293 of the Italian Wine Podcast coming live from the Grandi Langhe 2025 in Torino. Today's guest is Ryan Lewis, Director of Hidden Vines UK, a company dedicated to importing and distributing Italian wines, with a special focus on indigenous grape varieties. As the official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe 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: Ryan Lewis Ryan Lewis is a UK-based wine specialist with a focus on Italian wines. He serves as the Sales Manager at Italian Wines Direct and is the Director of Hidden Vines UK, a company dedicated to supplying Italian wines and Prosecco at trade prices. Beyond his roles in wine importation and sales, Ryan has contributed as a judge in international wine competitions, further solidifying his standing in the wine community.  Connect: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-lewis-2379001b/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HiddenVinesUK/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryansouthport/  _______________________________ 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!

21 Mars 9min

Welcome to Episode 2292 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 Elena Z. Today’s question(s):  In a data-driven future, who's going to have the final say on the wine style: AI or the winemaker? Will AI take the winemaker's place? In un futuro dominato dai dati, chi avrà l’ultima parola sullo stile di un vino: l’intelligenza artificiale o l’enologo? L'enologo verrà sostituito dall'Intelligenza arteficiale?  More about Professor Scienza: Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti.  He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff! To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/  If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler: Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods! To find out more about Stevie Kim visit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ Website: https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/  _______________________________ 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! Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek :)

21 Mars 14min

Welcome to Episode 2291, where we present a session recording from the wine2wine Business Forum 2024. Today’s session is entitled “Systembolaget, how the tender process and tasting works - one of the tools for reducing the climate impact” with Gad Peterson. In this session, we explore how generative AI is transforming the wine industry—from vineyard practices to customer relations. By optimizing workflows and driving innovation, AI is freeing up resources to focus on sustainability efforts, such as reducing climate impact.  Gad Pettersson, Head of Product Quality & Sustainable Supply Chain at Systembolaget, brings over 25 years of experience. He discusses how the tender process at Systembolaget supports sustainability and aligns with the company’s ambitious climate targets. 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/systembolaget-how-the-tender-process-and-tasting-work-tools-for-reducing-the-climate-impact/ _______________________________ 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!

20 Mars 30min

Welcome to Episode 2290 of the Italian Wine Podcast and Ambassadors’ Corner on Clubhouse. In this episode, Italian Wine Ambassador Rebecca Severs interviews Primo Franco of the renowned Nino Franco winery, located in the Prosecco-producing Valdobbiadene region of northern Italy. Today’s learning objectives: To spotlight Primo Franco and his remarkable achievements. To introduce his book, The Prosecco Way of Life, published to celebrate Nino Franco’s 100th anniversary. To explore Villa Barberina and its unique offerings. To learn about single-vineyard Proseccos and what makes them truly special. Co-Moderator – Rebecca Severs: Rebecca Severs is the owner and general manager of Bari Ristorante e Enoteca, a distinguished Italian restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, specializing in cuisine from the Puglia region. Her journey in the hospitality industry began at age 19, starting as a server to support her college education. After relocating to California and later returning to Memphis, Rebecca and her husband established Bari Ristorante, driven by her passion for Italian cuisine. In 2024, Rebecca achieved the esteemed title of Italian Wine Ambassador through the Vinitaly International Academy. Connect: Website: https://barimemphis.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bariristorante/ https://www.instagram.com/rebecca_barimemphis/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-severs-08165016/ About the guest - Primo Franco: Antonio Franco was a wine merchant. His son Giovanni, known as Nino, began producing sparkling wines. But it was the “quiet revolution” of Primo Franco, Antonio’s grandson, that brought the wind of change, opening the doors of the best restaurants in the world to his Valdobbiadene Prosecco wines. Assuming leadership of the family-owned Nino Franco winery in 1982, he modernized winemaking techniques to craft wines characterized by exceptional energy, freshness, and harmony. Franco's innovative approach included experimenting with vineyard management and collaborating closely with local grape growers to enhance quality. His contributions have been pivotal in shaping Prosecco's global reputation. Connect: Website: https://www.ninofranco.it/it/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninofranco1919/ _______________________________ 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!

20 Mars 38min

Welcome to Episode 2289 in which Cynthia Chaplin interviews Isis Daniel, The Millennial Somm (TMS), in this installment of Voices on the Italian Wine Podcast.  About today’s guest: Isis Daniel Isis Daniel, known as "The Millennial Somm," is a dynamic wine educator and content creator who has made a significant impact on the wine industry. Based between Washington, D.C., and Paris, she is dedicated to making wine culture more accessible and engaging for a diverse audience. Her passion for wine education and promotion led her to found Elevage LLC, an initiative aimed at increasing wine knowledge and appreciation, particularly among younger generations. In 2021, Isis was recognized in Wine Enthusiast's prestigious 40 Under 40 Tastemakers list, solidifying her role as a rising star in the wine world. Through her platforms, she continues to inspire and educate wine enthusiasts, aiming to bridge the gap between the wine industry and a new, more diverse audience. Connect: Website: https://linktr.ee/themillennialsomm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themillennialsomm/ About today’s host: Cynthia Chaplin VIA certified Italian Wine Ambassador and sommelier with FIS, Cynthia Chaplin is a professor of Italian Wine and Culture, with 20 years experience in the wine industry. Cynthia is a wine content creator, author and judge for several international wine competitions. She designs and presents events for embassies, corporate and private clients, develops Italian wine collections for restaurants and private clients and works with Italian wineries to train their sales and export staff.  Hosting Voices has increased her commitment to DEI in the wine sector, interviewing emerging and established wine professionals and discussing topics such as inclusivity, equity, language, sustainability and challenges facing under-represented groups and cultures as they move into careers in wine. As a certified WSET Educator, Cynthia is passionate about developing wine education for a future that will have a place at the table for anyone interested in wine. Connect: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Italian-Wines-in-English/100036868372598/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiss_my_glassx/?hl=en Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-chaplin-190647179/  _______________________________ 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! Share this pod! Remember Voices is all about diversity, equity, and heart-warming personal stories about real people!

19 Mars 56min

Welcome to episode 2288 of the Italian Wine Podcast, and episode 183 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. Marc’s guest today is Cecilia Paltrinieri of the Paltrinieri winery, a family-run winery dedicated for three generations to the production of Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC. More about today’s guest: Cecilia Paltrinieri  Paltrinieri is a family-run winery that has been specializing in Lambrusco di Sorbara for nearly 100 years. Located in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, Sorbara, the winery blends tradition and innovation to create authentic wines. With a deep respect for the land and a passion for winemaking, Paltrinieri offers visitors an immersive experience through guided tastings and tours, including a glimpse into its small family acetaia. Cecilia Paltrinieri represents the fourth generation of her family's winery. As the front office and social media manager, she brings a modern touch to Cantina Paltrinieri, combining tradition with digital storytelling. Passionate about Lambrusco and hospitality, she curates engaging content and ensures visitors enjoy an authentic experience. With a focus on innovation and connection, Cecilia is dedicated to sharing the soul of Cantina Paltrinieri with wine lovers worldwide. Connect: Website: https://cantinapaltrinieri.it/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cantinapaltrinieri/  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!

18 Mars 31min

Welcome to Episode 2287 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Juliana Colangelo interviews fine wine specialist Hayley Black, who oversees sales for seven states with Winebow Imports. Hayley shares her expertise on selling and promoting imported wines on the West Coastand and offers insights into the VIA Program. Key takeaways: How to bring more creativity and fun to wine marketing? What are some tangible ideas and examples for promoting wines? How to face the current trends and challenges?  More about the guest: Hayley Black Hayley Black is an avid learner of all things beverage and has a gift for sharing that knowledge with those around her. She believes that a passion for wine paired with a desire to learn creates a never-ending journey. Hayley has always understood what it means to pursue the pinnacle of quality in the wine industry in all facets. Hayley cut her teeth in the restaurant industry in the Greater Seattle Area. During this time she was named 425 Business Magazine’s 30 under 30, 2016.  After over a decade of working in restaurants, she transitioned into the world of wine sales and distribution. Throughout her career she has curated multiple wine programs, created and consulted restaurant wine training programs, worked harvest, worked in wineries, and now oversees sales and distribution for seven states in the USA for Winebow Imports.  She has earned the prestigious title of Italian Wine Expert with Vinitaly International Academy and has a WSET Diploma in Wine.  Connect: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-black-dipwset/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/placestovino/ More about the host: Juliana Colangelo 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: www.facebook.com/jules.colangelo/ Twitter: https://x.com/julezcolang?lang=en 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 Mars 26min

Welcome to the Next Generation and Episode 2286 of the Italian Wine Podcast. Today, McKenna Cassidy interviews Emanuel Schürer and Christian Ramisch of Munich’s Society of Sommeliers. The main topic of today’s interview is Student Wine Clubs and how the younger generation perceives wine.  More about today’s guests:  Emanuel has been the Head of Partnerships at the Society of Sommeliers e.V., Munich’s first and largest student wine club, for the past year. A founding member, he has been actively involved since the club’s inception, contributing to its growth and success. Emanuel is currently pursuing a degree in Management and Technology at the Technical University of Munich. Connect:  Website: https://www.societyofsommeliers.de/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/societyofsommeliers/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/societyofsommeliers/  Christian is a board member responsible for partnerships at the Society of Sommeliers. Alongside Emanuel, he oversees the club’s collaborations, external relations, and strategic partnerships. Over the past year, they successfully secured the club’s first long-term partnership with one of Germany’s top 10 wine distributors—a major milestone in the club’s history. Christian first joined the club through friends and quickly became fascinated by the world of wine. With a grandfather deeply knowledgeable about wine, but never fully understanding his insights, Christian saw the club as the perfect place to learn. The strong sense of community and shared passion among members naturally led him to take on a leadership role. Connect:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrissirms/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-ramisch/ More about today’s host McKenna Cassidy: 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: Facebook: @mckennacassidy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mckennacassidy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckenna-cassidy-cs-csw-66baa412b/ Website 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 Mars 23min