Ep 120

What comes to mind when you hear the word “hybrid”? Probably a car you can plug in and not a grape growing on the vine! But in the world of wine, hybrid grapes are sparking some of the most important conversations about sustainability, climate change, and the future of winemaking.

In this episode, I’m diving into what hybrid grapes actually are, how they’re different from crosses, mutations, and clones, and why they’re gaining more attention than ever before. From their fascinating history in early American vineyards to their controversial banning in France, hybrids have a story that’s as complex as the wines they produce.

You’ll learn the benefits of hybrid grapes such as their natural disease resistance, ability to thrive in tough climates, and role in reducing chemical sprays alongside the challenges, including lingering market stigma and misconceptions about their flavor.

We’ll also look at where these grapes are grown today, from the cold Midwest and Canada to Northern Europe and even Champagne, and why winemakers are experimenting with them in response to shifting climates and consumer curiosity.

Finally, I’ll share examples of hybrid grapes you can actually find and taste such as Vidal Blanc, Marquette, Norton, and Baco Noir, along with what makes them unique in the glass.

So, if you’ve ever wondered what the future of wine might look like, this episode will show you why hybrid grapes could be leading the way.

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Resources:

Embracing hybrid grapes and creating unique wine with Wisconsin winemaker Erin Rasmussen - https://www.corkandfizz.com/blog/guide-to-wine-podcast-episode-10

Episode Highlights:

• What hybrid grapes are (and how they differ from crosses, mutations, and clones)
• The history of hybrid grapes in the U.S. and Europe
• Benefits of hybrids: disease resistance, climate adaptability, sustainability
• Downsides: market stigma, lower tannins, historical bans
• Where hybrids are grown today, from North America to Northern Europe and Brazil
• How climate change and consumer demand are fueling interest in hybrid grapes
• Examples of notable hybrids: Vidal Blanc, Seyn

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 119

What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee? For this milestone episode, things look a little different and a lot more personal!

In celebration of turning 30, I’m sitting on the other side of the mic while my husband (aka “Mr. Cork & Fizz”) takes over the questions. From how this wine journey began to the lessons I’ve learned running a business, you’ll hear personal stories and reflections I’ve never talked about on the podcast.

You’ll hear how Cork & Fizz was born out of a casual wine club, the challenges of building a business without a formal background, and the pivots along the way that shaped it into what it is today. We also dig into how to host your own wine nights, from picking themes and setting the vibe to keeping guests engaged without overcomplicating the experience.

We also talk about podcasting, the behind-the-scenes planning that keeps weekly episodes flowing, and what it’s really like to show up consistently as a creator. Plus, I open up about big life updates, including a surprise announcement which ties into how I’m navigating tastings without drinking, and my hopes for balancing business and motherhood.

So, if you’re curious how a casual wine night with friends turned into a thriving wine education business and a hit podcast, this episode is full of stories and tips you won’t want to miss!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Episode Highlights:

• The story of how Cork & Fizz began during a rainy cabin weekend
  
  
  
• Tips for turning friends into wine drinkers (without pressure)
  
  
  
• Essential skills for starting a wine-related business
  
  
  
• The journey of launching and sustaining a podcast
  
  
  
• Hosting your own wine nights: themes, notes, and tips
  
  
  
• Thoughts on pregnancy, wine, and planning for maternity leave
  
  
  
• Dream wine regions still on the bucket list

• Which wine I would pick if I was on a deserted island
  
  
  

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 118

What if the biggest barrier to wine sustainability isn’t the farming, but the bottle itself?

In part 2 of my conversation with Daniel Rodriguez, CEO of Currently Wine Co., we dive deep into how wine packaging, labeling, and consumer education all play a role in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive wine industry.

We explore Currently’s decision to use aluminum bottles instead of glass, not just for aesthetic appeal, but to drastically reduce the wine’s carbon footprint. Daniel breaks down why weight and distance matter in emissions, and how switching from glass to aluminum can cut the carbon footprint in half.

You’ll learn why Currently is proudly certified vegan and how they’re promoting transparency around additives, sugar content and winemaking practices. Daniel also explains why they include calorie and sugar information on their bottles, even though it’s not required, to help consumers feel more informed and empowered.

We also dig into the consumer psychology behind wine packaging and labeling, including how words like “dry” are often misunderstood. Daniel explains how they approach wine education without snobbery and how their Sauvignon Blanc was intentionally crafted to be crisp, clean, and grapefruit-free; think more Sancerre than California. Plus, you’ll hear why aluminum bottles are more approachable than cans and how they make the wine more portable and shareable.

So, if you are ready to dive into how Currently balances sustainability, quality and approachability all while creating a wine that’s meant to be enjoyed anywhere, from boats to beach to your backyard, then this episode is for you!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

As a listener of this podcast, go to https://currentlywine.com/ and you will receive a 20% discount with promo code CorkandFizz20 - discount valid through 9/23/2025. Up to 3 purchases per customer.

Connect with Daniel

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drodriguez4/

Episode Highlights:

• How aluminum bottles cut carbon emissions in half
• Why Currently is certified vegan and what that really means
• Where Currently gets thei

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 115

What if the wine industry’s biggest problem isn’t quality, but the connection to the wine?

Today’s guest, Daniel Rodriguez, saw an opportunity to bring fresh energy and better marketing to wine. With a deep passion for wine and a sharp eye on consumer trends, he's building a brand that meets today’s drinkers where they are.

Daniel, the owner and CEO of Currently Wine Co., plans to use his skills in building tech brands to bring a disruptive wine brand into a slow moving industry, ripe for change. Over the previous 11 years, he has led the marketing function for 3 startup B2B tech companies. In 2021, he co-authored "Experience is Everything," a book about the future of customer service in an increasingly digital world.

In this episode, you’ll hear how one bottle of Argentinian Malbec opened the door to Daniel’s wine obsession, and why he believes wine brands are failing to connect with modern consumers. We explore what younger wine drinkers really care about, why Sauvignon Blanc is Currently’s first release, and how branding and sustainability can go hand-in-hand.

Daniel also breaks down the marketing mistake many wine brands make: selling to themselves, not their customers. He shares what makes lifestyle wine buyers different from collectors and why understanding that difference is key to standing out in a crowded market. Plus, Daniel shares why he believes the wine industry is missing a massive opportunity to reduce its carbon footprint and how packaging plays a key role in that shift.

So, if you’re curious about how someone outside the traditional wine world is rewriting the playbook, this episode will give you a whole new perspective on what’s possible and what’s needed to move the industry forward!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

As a listener of this podcast go to https://currentlywine.com/ and you will receive a 20% discount with promo code CorkandFizz20 - discount valid through 9/23/2025 and up to 3 purchases per customer.

This is part 1 of my interview with Daniel so don’t miss part 2 next week!

Connect with Daniel

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drodriguez4/

Episode Highlights:

• Why most wine brands are marketing to the wrong audience
• Three types of wine consumers

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 116

Is Syrah the same as Shiraz?

In today's episode you are getting a sneak peak inside one of my Cork Crew virtual tastings where we compare Syrah and Shiraz, two names for the same grape, grown in very different parts of the world.

This exclusive replay offers a deep dive into the differences between Old World Syrah from France’s Northern Rhône and New World Shiraz from Australia, showing how climate, winemaking style, and even culture influence the final flavor in your glass.

You’ll learn why Syrah is often described as bold, meaty, and peppery, and how it became a favorite among both sommeliers and casual wine drinkers. We cover the grape’s origins, its parentage, and how vineyard elevation and skin contact during fermentation shape its intensity. You’ll also get a breakdown of key Northern Rhône appellations like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, including how the area's terrain and traditions bring out different sides of Syrah.

Then we dive into Australia to uncover what makes Shiraz so distinct. From century-old vines in Barossa to cooler coastal climates in McLaren Vale and Hunter Valley, discover how Australian winemakers blend innovation with tradition and why “Shiraz” might just be their playful spin on a grape they’ve made entirely their own.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how to spot the difference between Syrah and Shiraz when shopping the wine aisle, this episode will help you know exactly what to look for!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Episode Highlights:

• Syrah vs Shiraz - Are they the same?

• Where Syrah originated and why it's so widely planted today
  
  
  
• Old World vs. New World wine characteristics and how they show up in Syrah
  
  
  
• Key differences between Rhône Syrah and Australian Shiraz
  
  
  
• Notable wine regions: Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Hunter Valley
  
  
  
• How extended skin contact and vineyard elevation affect Syrah’s bold flavors
  
  
  
• Why “Old Vine” labeling in Australia can be misleading and how Barossa’s Vine Charter helps clarify it

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 115

What if the wine industry’s diversity problem isn’t a lack of people but a lack of acknowledgment?

Today, I have Anaïs and Rachel from AniChe Cellars back on the podcast and they are sharing their honest take on representation in the wine industry. They share why true diversity in wine goes beyond who owns the winery as well as how much of the industry’s skill, labor, and soul is often overlooked. They reflect on Rachel’s time with the Washington Wine Commission, the systemic issues that still exist, and the shifts needed to make wine more equitable and accessible.

They also take us behind the scenes of their sparkling winemaking process, from bottle fermentation and hand-riddling to the hands-on care behind every release. Plus, Rachel and Anaïs each share their top three wine picks for anyone wanting to try AniChe wines, along with their favorite food pairing that says it all: salty and bubbly!

So, if you’re curious about how winemakers are reshaping the future of wine and want a look inside a Washington winery that is doing things differently, this episode is for you!

And don’t miss part 1 of my conversation with Rachel and Anaïs of AniChe Cellars!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Connect with AniChe Cellars

https://www.instagram.com/anichecellars/

Save 30% off your purchase with promo code CORKANDFIZZ

Episode Highlights:

• Challenges and efforts in promoting diversity

• Representation and the value of vineyard workers

• Generational shifts shaping the future of wine

• Ethical and inclusive practices in winemaking

• Top 3 AniChe wine recommendations

• Sparkling wine production at AniChe cellars

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 114

Can grapes truly thrive in a place shaped by fire, wind and water? These winemakers say yes and they have the wine to prove it!

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Rachel Horn and Anaïs Mehra of AniChe Cellars, a mother-daughter winemaking team based in Washington’s Columbia Gorge. We dive into what it’s like to build a winery from scratch, make wine as a family, and care for the land in a way that supports future generations.

We explore what makes Columbia Gorge such a magical (and wildly diverse) place to grow grapes, why they believe in working with the elements, not against them, and how they’re navigating the real challenges wildfires smoke and unpredictability.

You’ll also hear how Rachel and Anaïs are moving away from conventional farming in favor of more regenerative, nature-driven practices and why sustainability isn’t just a trend in their vineyard, it’s a long-term legacy plan.

AniCHe Cellars was established in 2009 championing red and white blends from Washington State. Now this second generation winemaking family in the Columbia Gorge, are producing estate white and sparkling wines, and estate reds, too! This winery is always women-made, "Renewing the tradition of women making wine" and they focus on low intervention, vintage driven wines.

So, if you’re curious about what makes the Columbia Gorge so special and want a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and heart behind every bottle then this episode is for you!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Connect with AniChe Cellars

https://www.instagram.com/anichecellars/

Save 30% off your purchase with promo code CORKANDFIZZ

Episode Highlights:

• The story behind AniChe Cellars
• Anaïs Mera’s path into winemaking
• What to know about the Columbia Gorge wine region
• What makes Columbia Gorge one of the most unique AVAs
• How smoke taint affects wine and why it’s so complex
• Transitioning away from conventional vineyard practices
• The practicality of sustainability winemaking
• The emotional and financial impact of losing a vintage

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com

Ep 113

When you think about summer wine, is it all about Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc? Think again! In this week’s episode, we are going beyond those two standbys and digging into some more unique and refreshing options.

Today, I’m sharing 13 unique wines that are perfect for those warm summer nights and they might just become your new favorites!

We’ll explore zesty white wines like Picpoul de Pinet, Roussanne, Godello and Txakolina, along with crisp Italian Gavi and even the lesser-known Viura grape (a key player in Spanish Rioja Blanco). If you thought Sauvignon Blanc was your only option for warm weather sipping, think again!

And for all the red wine lovers out there, I’ve got you covered with chillable, grill-worthy reds. Think Blaufränkisch (your new BBQ bestie), elegant Etna Rosso from Sicilian volcanic soils, and bright, floral Cinsault, a grape that always brings the party. Plus, a special shoutout to Cabernet Franc and Chile’s rustic Pais for those looking to branch out even more.

So, if you’re tired of grabbing the same bottle every time it gets hot out, this episode will give you a whole new summer wine shopping list.

Ready to join my summer wine challenge?! You can learn more here!

Resources

White wines: Picpoul, Roussanne, Godello, Pouilly-Fumé, Txakolina, Viura, Gavi

Red wines: Blaufränkisch, Etna Rosso, Cinsault, Cabernet Franc, País

Other: Pet Nat Rosé, Bugey-Cerdon

Episode Highlights:

• 2025 Summer Wine Challenge: how it works & what you can win

• White wines that deserve your attention: Picpoul, Roussanne, Godello, Txakolina, Viura, Gavi

• Chillable reds you’ve probably never tried: Blaufränkisch, Etna Rosso, Cinsault, Cabernet Franc, País

• Sparkling wines for summer: Pet Nat Rosé & Bugey-Cerdon

What did you think of the episode? Text me!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide! - https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Have you Joined the Cork Crew?!

The Cork Crew Tasting Club is a community of people that enjoy drinking and learning about wine. It's like a book club...but with wine! Each month I’ll select two styles of wine for us to focus on. We’ll then have a virtual tasting party to explore those wines along with a community event to learn from professionals in the wine community.

Click the link below to get a FREE pass to attend a Cork Crew event of your choosing!

https://www.corkandfizz.com/freeclasspass

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - hailey@corkandfizz.com