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:
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▪️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

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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/

How is wine culture changing, and what still holds true? Eric Asimov, the long-standing chief wine critic for The New York Times, joins us for a candid conversation to answer these questions. With his signature clarity and cultural insight, Eric brings a rare, unpretentious perspective to the complexities of wine criticism, the industry’s growing pains, and the surprising role of wellness and celebrity in shaping what ends up in our glasses.

We explore the quiet transformation happening in California wine, the tension between wine as a personal experience and a consumer product, and why wine education needs to feel more like an invitation than an exam. Eric unpacks the way media, tech, and generational values are shifting the center of gravity in wine, not always for better, but not always for worse either.

His reflections are rooted in decades of experience, yet they remain open, questioning, and refreshingly grounded. This isn’t about scores or hype. It’s about culture, connection, and the enduring pleasure of a shared bottle.

#EricAsimov #WineCentricShow #WineCulture #WineCriticism #CaliforniaWine #MindfulDrinking #WineAndWellness #WineEducation #WineMedia #WineCommunity

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Eric Asimov sees himself as an observer of the wine industry, not a part of it.
• Wine criticism can influence sales but is not driven by financial gain.
• The wine industry is a complex network of small businesses.
• California wines are evolving towards more diverse styles.
• Technology has democratized wine discussions and education.
• Celebrity endorsements can spark interest in wine among new audiences.
• Wine should be enjoyed in moderation and as part of a balanced lifestyle.
• Cultural events can enhance the wine experience beyond just tasting.
• Wine education should be accessible and engaging, not elitist.
• Personal connections and shared experiences are at the heart of wine enjoyment.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Eric Asimov and His Role in Wine Criticism
02:39 The Distinction Between Wine Critic and Industry
05:04 Criticism and Confrontation in Wine Writing
07:46 The Evolution of Wine Styles and Criticism
10:29 Influential Voices in Wine Criticism
12:47 California Wine: A Shift in Focus
15:24 The Impact of the Internet on Wine Culture
18:12 The Power of Wine Criticism and Its Effects
20:27 Allocation and Accessibility in the Wine Market
29:08 The Economics of Wine Allocation
31:27 Martial Arts and Wine: A Unique Comparison
34:49 Athletes and Celebrity Wines
38:27 The Impact of Celebrity Culture on Wine
42:13 Wine, Hip Hop, and Cultural Crossover
48:37 The Emotional Connection of Wine Experiences

🔔 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/

Backend Tags:

Eric Asimov, wine podcast, wine culture, wine criticism, California wine, celebrity wine brands, wine education, wine and wellness, mindful drinking, wine industry, sommelier podcast, wine journalism, The New York Times wine, wine lifestyle, wine commentary, wine trends, wine media, wine storytelling, modern wine culture, wine influencers

Champagne maker Jérôme Dehours brings a rare blend of tradition and rebellion, redefining what Champagne can be through a lens of integrity, terroir, and deep-rooted family legacy.

After the early loss of his father and the forced sale of the Dehours estate, Jérôme and his sisters reclaimed their family’s land in 1996. From that moment, he began reshaping the estate’s identity, challenging Champagne’s prestige-driven norms and choosing authenticity over convention.

Influenced by Burgundy’s philosophy of place, Jérôme creates “wines that happen to sparkle,” guided not by lab metrics but by instinct, observation, and the expressive character of each vineyard. His commitment to Pinot Meunier, a grape often overshadowed, and his early decision to list lieux-dits on his labels positioned him as a revolutionary voice within Champagne.

Joined by Troy Revell, Wine Director at Fearrington House, this episode also features a rare on-camera tasting, offering a front-row view into how a top sommelier experiences these unapologetically terroir-driven wines.

Jérôme’s approach is both minimalist and intentional: a Coquard basket press, natural fermentation, and malolactic in bottle all contribute to wines that speak clearly of origin, season, and soil.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Jerome's journey into winemaking began after his father's passing.
• The Vallée de la Marne is known for its unique terroir.
• Pinot Meunier is often underestimated but has great potential.
• Transitioning from grape grower to winemaker was a significant challenge.
• Single vineyard labeling was a bold move in Champagne.
• Understanding yields is crucial for quality production.
• Traditional pressing techniques impact the final wine quality.
• Aging in large wooden vats adds complexity to the wine.
• The influence of terroir is evident in the wine's character.
• Jerome emphasizes the importance of natural winemaking practices.

🎧 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, including Fearrington House and Heather Donovan Real Estate.

Backend Tags:

jerome dehours, champagne dehours, grower champagne, pinot meunier champagne, vallée de la marne champagne, lieux dits champagne, natural winemaking, terroir driven wines, burgundian style champagne, champagne wine podcast, wine centric show, artisan champagne, champagne terroir, french wine documentary, independent winemaker, champagne tasting, sommelier interview, wine podcast 2025, champagne with troy revell, champagne philosophy

How does Chateau Musar create a wine so instantly recognizable—vibrant, soulful, unmistakably Musar? In this episode, Marc Hochar takes us inside the family’s collaborative blending process, revealing how each member’s unique palate shapes the final wine. From generational taste differences to the guiding hand of Gaston, the Musar blend is crafted through shared vision, spirited debate, and a reverence for the winery’s heritage.

Unlike wines polished to perfection, Musar embraces vibrancy, quirk, and character—the very traits that define its identity. The result is a blend that reflects continuity, lineage, and the soulful imperfections that make Musar one of Lebanon’s most iconic wineries.

This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Hochar family maintains consistency while honoring individuality, ensuring every vintage carries forward Musar’s legacy.

📍 What You’ll Learn

• Why Gaston has the final say in the blending process
• How each family member’s palate contributes to the final wine
• How Musar achieves continuity without sacrificing character
• Why vibrancy and quirk are essential to Musar’s style
• How family opinions and collaboration drive blend decisions
• Why “too perfect” is not Musar

🔑 Keywords

Chateau Musar, wine blending, signature style, family tradition, wine tasting, Lebanese wine, Marc Hochar

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

🙏 Episode Partners

▪️ Fearrington House – https://fearrington.com/
▪️ Heather Donovan Real Estate – https://heatherdhomes.com/
▪️ Conscious Strong – https://go.consciousstrong.com/

LA Dodgers’ Manager, Dave Roberts, a three-time World Series champion and co-owner of Red Stitch Wine, shares how the intensity of a playoff run mirrors the precision of winemaking. From his first unforgettable glass of Jordan Cabernet to launching a boutique label with fellow athletes, Dave opens up about the journey from the dugout to the vineyard.

This candid conversation explores the parallels between baseball and wine, from the art of timing to the value of patience, and touches on evolving wine trends, the influence of his sommelier wife, and why younger generations are key to the future of wine culture. Red Stitch Wine isn’t just a brand; it’s a reflection of friendship, family, and a love for the craft.

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Clever parallels between ballplayers and wine styles, from bold Cabs to elegant Pinots.
• How wine became part of Dave’s personal and family life.
• The story behind Red Stitch Wine and its roots in friendship and shared passions.
• Why timing matters, whether chasing a playoff berth or picking grapes at peak ripeness.
• The influence of Dave’s wife, a trained sommelier, on their wine journey.
• A shift toward more balanced, lower-alcohol wines with nuance.
• Insights on how the wine world can better connect with younger audiences.

Chapters:
00:00 Dave Roberts and His Journey
04:24 The Intersection of Baseball and Wine
09:10 First Wine Experiences and Discoveries
13:46 The Birth of Red Stitch Wine
18:20 Involvement in Wine Production and Marketing
23:33 The Young Pitcher and Wine Pairing
25:34 Shohei Ohtani: The Two-Way Player
27:40 Wine Culture in the NBA
28:48 Dave Roberts: The Wine Guy of MLB
31:32 Red Stitch Winery: A Shift in Wine Philosophy
36:15 Connecting Baseball and Wine for Younger Generations
37:50 Quickfire Questions and Future Aspirations

🔔 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, including Fearrington House, Heather Donovan Real Estate, and Conscious Strong.

Portugal’s Douro Valley isn’t just beautiful, it’s alive with history, resilience, and over 300 grape varieties that define the essence of Portuguese wine. At the heart of this landscape, Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges, the visionaries behind Wine & Soul, are preserving and celebrating vineyards that date back generations.

Their story is one of devotion, to the land, to grape diversity, and to the complex identity born from old vines. With more than 90 distinct grape types thriving in their vineyards, the wines crafted here reflect a rare harmony of nature, heritage, and human touch.

Sandra Tavares da Silva and Jorge Serôdio Borges are more than just acclaimed winemakers — they’re stewards of the Douro’s soul. Founders of Wine & Soul, their mission is to protect and express the raw beauty of ancient vineyards. Both named Winemakers of the Year by Portugal’s leading wine publications, Sandra was also recognized as one of the Top 24 Women Winemakers Worldwide by Jancis Robinson in the Financial Times.

More about their wines and philosophy: www.wineandsoul.com

📍 What You’ll Learn:

• Why the diversity of grape varieties in the Douro is unmatched anywhere else in the world.
• How the Douro went from fortified to fresh wines
• How old vineyards survive and thrive through resilience — and what that means for wine lovers.
• The critical role of plot identity in shaping the character of each bottle.
• How climate and terroir work together to support this extraordinary grape ecosystem.
• Why the Douro’s complex blend of grapes results in wines that are layered, expressive, and unforgettable.

🎧 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, including Fearrington House, Heather Donovan Real Estate, and Conscious Strong.