Sebastián Zuccardi is one of the defining voices behind the modern revolution of Argentine wine. As the third generation leading Zuccardi Valle de Uco, he helped redefine what’s possible in Uco Valley, transforming high-altitude vineyards into some of the most respected sites in the world.

In this episode, he breaks down why the vineyard matters more than the winery, how extreme elevation shapes tension and structure, and why terroir, not technique, drives great wine. From the evolution of Malbec to the rise of Chardonnay in Mendoza, Sebastián shares how concrete fermentation, parcel-by-parcel study, and long-term thinking are reshaping Argentina’s identity on the global stage.

At Zuccardi, the philosophy is simple: wine should taste like where it’s from. Precision over power. Purity over polish.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Sebastian Zuccardi emphasizes the importance of the vineyard over the winery.
• The Uco Valley's diversity allows for unique wine expressions.
• Terroir is crucial in defining the quality of wine.
• Zucardi wines focus on purity and transparency of the place.
• Family dynamics play a significant role in decision-making.
• The Uco Valley's climate is ideal for high-quality Chardonnay.
• Concrete is preferred for aging wines to maintain terroir expression.
• Malbec is a versatile grape that reflects its terroir.
• The white wine revolution in Argentina is gaining momentum.
• Zucardi's approach is about long-term sustainability and quality.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com
We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:
Want to go to Tuscany?- Conscious Taste of Tuscany Spring Renewal

▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/

▪️Conscious Strong: https://consciousstrong.com/

Backend Tags:
Zuccardi, Sebastián Zuccardi, Mendoza Argentina wine, Uco Valley vineyards, high-altitude winemaking, Malbec Argentina, Chardonnay Argentina, terroir-driven wines, concrete fermentation, family wine business, Argentine wine revolution

What happens when passion meets purpose in the wine world — and a little Disney magic? George Miliotes, legendary Master Sommelier and the visionary behind Wine Bar George at Disney Springs, shares a journey as rich and layered as a vintage Bordeaux.

From crafting wine blends for Olive Garden to building one of the most dynamic wine destinations in the country, George brings hospitality, humor, and high standards to everything he touches.

🎢 Bonus: We challenge George to pair wines with iconic Disney rides — think Guardians of the Galaxy, Tower of Terror, and Expedition Everest. His answers? As bold as a Napa Cab.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• George Miliotes is a trailblazer in the wine world and creator of Wine Bar George
• How growing up in hospitality shaped his love of wine
• The surprising stories behind his wine collaborations (yes, Olive Garden!)
• Why Coravin changed the game for by-the-glass programs
• His inclusive, no-snobbery approach to wine education and service
• Why mentorship is key to cultivating great wine professionals
• How Wine Bar George is redefining wine culture — one pour at a time

Whether you're a sommelier-in-training or just here for the vibes (and the vino), this episode brings out the soul behind the service — and a few unexpected twists along the way.

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.
🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

Conscious Strong has an April retreat to Italy - mention Wine Centric for a $250 0ff click the link!
We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners, including Fearrington House and

Cristie Norman brings bold energy, heart, and a wealth of experience to this powerful episode of The Wine Centric Show. As Lead Sommelier at Delilah at the Wynn Las Vegas, Cristie opens up about her evolution from aspiring opera singer to nationally recognized wine educator, and how her path through hospitality has shaped her passion for leadership, mentorship, and impact.

Cristie shares the personal journey that led her to wine, including a life-shifting Zen retreat that changed how she sees achievement, and why she ultimately chose not to pursue her Advanced Sommelier certification. “No one’s ever asked me that before,” she admits, as she reflects on redefining success in a high-pressure industry.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Why First Growth Bordeaux is trending at Delilah at Wynn Las Vegas
• Cristie’s personal go-to styles of Chablis
• How tariffs affect the wine industry and her wine list
• The business side of wine: building programs, mentoring teams, and being unapologetically honest
• Her work with United Sommeliers Foundation, which has distributed nearly $2 million in aid
• The pairing she’ll never forget: Oysters + Fino Sherry at SommCon

Cristie is more than a sommelier, she’s a leader, educator, and visionary helping shape the future of wine.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Kristi Norman and Delilah

02:47 Exploring Wine Choices and Trends

05:48 The Role of a Sommelier in Las Vegas

08:35 The Art of Wine Inventory Management

11:27 From Opera to Wine: Kristi's Journey

14:10 The Business of Wine and Personal Philosophy

16:49 The United Sommelier Foundation and Its Impact

19:51 Future Aspirations and Industry Challenges

22:43 Closing Thoughts and Memorable Pairings

🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into wine culture.
🎧 Listen now on YouTube + all podcast platforms
🔗 Full episode and show notes at winecentricshow.com

We’re grateful for the support of our episode partners:

▪️Fearrington House: https://fearrington.com/

▪️Heather Donovan Real Estate: https://heatherdhomes.com/

▪️Conscious Strong: https://consciousstrong.com/