Dracaena Wines Podcast

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass! Today, I am honored to share an episode where the table has been turned on me.   I had the honor of being interviewed by Natalie MacLean. If you are unfamiliar with her, here is her self claimed biography: To fund her late-night vinous habits, Natalie MacLean holds down day jobs as a wine writer, speaker and judge. An accredited sommelier, she is a member of the National Capital Sommelier Guild, the Wine Writers Circle and several French wine societies with complicated and impressive names. Funny, brainy and unapologetically tipsy, her goal in life is to intimidate those crusty wine stewards at fine restaurants with her staggering knowledge. If you are a regular listener to this podcast, you know I got the opportunity to interview her also! If you missed it, please go back to episodes 253 and 254. I am not use to being on that side of the microphone, so I

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Today we’re touching down in the stunning, UNESCO-protected medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a place where the wine flows like time travel and the reviews are occasionally aged in pure bitterness. While most visitors rave about the breathtaking vineyard views and silky smooth Grand Crus , we’re here for the "fresh drama" hiding in the cellar. We’ll explore the "defamatory" BBQ beef, the entitlement of guests who bought 30 bottles but fumed over not getting a free gift , and the "disgraceful" timeline dispute where a brief 10-minute wait somehow morphed into a 90-minute saga of outrage. It’s a vintage blend of world-class hospitality and the ultimate owner clap-backs—so pour yourself a glass and let’s get into the petty side of the Right Bank! Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free a

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  The statistics all state the wine consumption is decreasing. According to Statista, wine consumption has dropped 6.75% since 2019 and the International Organization of Vine and Wine says that wine consumption has dropped 2.6% just this last year. In fact, global wine consumption has reached its lowest point since 1996. Enter the world of de-alcoholized wine.  Fact.MR has predicted that non-alcohol wine will increase its  market substantially in the next ten years; from 2.57 billion to 6.94 billion dollars. And in the forefront of this massive trend is Giesen Wines in New Zealand. I had the pleasure to sit down with Duncan Shouler, Director of Innovation to discuss the process and their goals for this line.    While you are listening, it would be greatly appreciated if you could take one minute to subscribe, rate and review. It takes only a few seconds of

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  My friend Martha—my fun loving co-host of One Star Winery Reviews—recently made a trip out to Paso Robles. It was the first time we actually met in person and the conversation was effortless, the wine was flowing (along with a few margaritas), and the stories were endless. We even took a detour to see if we could speak to the beyond by seeing John Edwards live. While she was in town, we decided to take our friendship on the road. So, pour yourself a glass of something local, settle in, and listen to our guest appearance on Protecting What Matters, hosted by Barry Fisher. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  We’re back in for our final visit to Montepulciano, where the wine is ancient but the attitudes are…freshly ferocious. From a winery that proudly reminds you it’s been there since the year 1200—but still won’t let you use the bathroom unless you’re a “real” customer—to underground tastings where the host seems more interested in flirting and asking “Are you drunk yet?” than talking about tannins, this one is a ride. We’ll meet guests who felt “ripped,” Americans who suspect their tour guide hated their entire country, and owners who respond to one-star reviews with 1,000 years of family history and a side of “too bad!!!”. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when world-class wine collides with world-class pettiness, keep listening—because these grapes come with serious gripes. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the W

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Welcome to another one star winery review,” where the vines are world-class, the views are stunning, and the reviews are… absolutely savage. Today, we’re wrapping up our Montepulciano misadventures with wineries that allegedly buy good ratings with free bottles, hosts more interested in flirting than pouring, reservation “requirements” that appear and disappear like magic, and a restaurant so bad one reviewer said it made McDonald’s look like fine dining. Pour yourself a glass of something affordable and stick around—because if you’ve ever felt ripped off on vacation, this episode will make you feel downright vindicated. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Today, we are thrilled to be sitting down with a true visionary of the Paso Robles wine scene, the man behind Brecon Estate, Damian Grindley. From the stunning, high-calcium hills of the Adelaida district, Brecon has quickly established itself as a producer of world-class, distinctive wines, earning high praise and a loyal following. But today, we're focusing on one grape in particular—a varietal that Damian has championed and truly elevated here in Paso Robles: Cabernet Franc. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what else I have been up to. And most of all, please tell your friends about the podcast!   Slainte!

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  We’re heading back to Spain today! Yeah! So far, we've traveled through Galicia’s green coastlines, wandered through the cider-soaked hills of Asturias, and hiked Cantabria’s misty valleys—but today, we’re heading somewhere truly unique. A place that feels like its own little country—because, well, it kind of is. Welcome to País Vasco, also known as the Basque Country. Where the food is world-class, the language predates Latin, and the wines? Oh the wines! Crisp, coastal, and packed with character. This is a place where the Atlantic Ocean crashes into steep green hills, where locals pour wine from impossible heights, and where the language sounds like it was written by Tolkien after a night of pintxos and Txakoli. So, grab your glass, maybe pour something with a little spritz to it, and let’s dive into the story of Basque wine — a region that’s small in s

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass! Hard to believe this is my 400th episode!  I’m thrilled to be joined today by the ever-insightful Noah Chichester of Wines of Galicia, the go-to guide for all things Galician wine. We’ll be diving into the lush, green wine regions of Spain’s northwest — where the Atlantic air, ancient vines and a treasure trove of native grapes like Albariño, Godello and Mencía come together in spectacular fashion. Whether you’re a seasoned Spanish wine lover or just curious about what’s happening beyond Rioja and Ribera, you’re in for a treat. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what else I have been up to. And most of all, plea

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Today’s episode is a little different — we’re taking you inside a live tasting event at the San Francisco Wine School, hosted by Master Sommelier David Glancy. This special session focused on the wines of Castilla y León, one of Spain’s most dynamic and diverse regions, home to some of the country’s most iconic appellations and innovative producers. You’ll hear the clinking of glasses, the energy of the crowd, and plenty of wine wisdom as we explore what makes this region so distinctive — from its bold reds to its elegant whites. So, pour yourself a glass, settle in, and join us for this immersive tasting experience straight from the classroom to your earbuds. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head ove

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  We are back in Montepulciano for more reviews! and the owner's responses continue to steal the spotlight—a masterclass in polite, yet firm, indignation. Wineries where the owners defend their staff's "patience, education, and kindness" against every accusation of rudeness, and where a free tasting only covers one-third of the actual tasting—a simple misunderstanding due to a language barrier. In search of a less emotionally fraught experience, we moved on, only to encounter a tour guide more focused on flirting than fermentation, and a host that insults Americans We’ve officially determined that touring this region's cellars is less about the vintage and more about running a gauntlet of hilariously hostile hospitality, and frankly, we're loving every minute of it and hope you do too. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Explorin

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Hey there, wine friends! Welcome back to Exploring the Wine Glass, where I’ll never tell you what to drink, but I will always share what’s in my glass. Today, we’re continuing our journey along Spain’s northern coastline, and we’re visiting a region that’s small in size but big in personality: Cantabria. From misty mountains and secret valleys to prehistoric caves and coastal waves, Cantabria may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine—but it has a story worth raising a glass to. So pour yourself something delicious, get comfy, and let’s explore the hidden wines, ciders, and legends of Cantabria. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Today we are back to talking one star winery reviews and we are traveling to Italy, where the only thing flowing faster than the wine is the one-star reviews. Today we’re headed to Montepulciano, a region renowned for its history, stunning landscapes, and apparently, its ability to disappoint.  The unfiltered opinions of people who had their dreams of a perfect Italian wine experience crushed by stingy aperitifs, rude witches behind the counter, and in one case, a live worm on the charcuterie board. So pour yourself a glass of whatever you’ve got—maybe something from a big bottle—and prepare to cringe.   Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my a

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  It’s National Box Wine Day, and what better way to celebrate than breaking open the myth that boxed wine can’t be both fun and fabulous? I sat down with Chelsea Franchi, assistant winemaker at Tablas Creek, to chat about sustainability, innovation, and why putting great wine in a box is more than just convenient—it’s downright brilliant. Join us as we sip, laugh, and explore how this packaging is shaking up the wine world in the best way possible and maybe rethink your next pour.   Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what else I have been up to. And most of all, please tell your friends about the podcast!   Slai

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Today, we're taking a deep dive into one of Italy’s best-kept secrets: the world of Franciacorta. While many of us know and love Prosecco, the sparkling wines of Franciacorta offer a different kind of magic—one rooted in tradition, unique terroir, and a dedication to craftsmanship that rivals the best in the world. Joining us is Lucia Barzanò, the fifth generation of her family to run Mosnel, a historic winery that has been a pioneer in this region for decades. From embracing organic farming to championing indigenous grapes and crafting sparkling wines of incredible depth, Mosnel is a true reflection of the Franciacorta spirit.  Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewi

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Earlier this year, I had the privilege to attend Sicilia En Primeur, where the energy and ambition of Sicilian wine were on full display—and there’s no better person to talk about what’s next than Mariangela Cambria, the president of Assovini Sicilia. In this episode, we explore how Sicily is uniting tradition and innovation, why native grapes are capturing international attention, and what it takes to lead one of Italy’s most dynamic wine regions into the future. Join me for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond the vineyards, revealing the vision and passion driving Sicily’s modern wine renaissance. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my

TITLE: Service is Left out, shipping snafus and where “No” is the only wine poured It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Before we dive into today’s episode, let me set the scene: imagine misty green hills rolling into rugged cliffs, tiny terraces clinging to mountain slopes, and ancient grapes whispering stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Today, we’re heading to Asturias—a corner of Spain where cider reigns, wine whispers, and folklore practically drips from the rain-soaked slate. So pour yourself something fresh—maybe even a tart sidra if you’re feeling adventurous—and let’s explore why this quiet, soulful region deserves a big spot on your wine map. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Today, we’re continuing our virtual visit to Santa Barbara and pouring over more one star reviews from Vega, and then moving on to Babcock Winery. From alleged closures without notice and frustratingly slow service to outright refusal of service for seemingly arbitrary reasons, it seems some of these wineries are serving up more than just wine. Join us as we uncork the truth and try to understand what makes a winery experience truly delightful, or downright dismal.  Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what else I have been up to. And most of all, please tell your friends about the podcast!   Slainte!    Music: W

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  Welcome back to the podcast, everyone! Sometimes the stars truly align. Last week, we took a journey through the stunning region of Galicia in Northwest Spain, exploring its unique culture, cuisine, and of course, its incredible wines. Well, as fate would have it, right on the heels of that episode, I had the pleasure of attending a fantastic webinar that was a deep dive into Galicia's most famous white grape: Albariño. If you missed that episode, I’ll have it in the shownotes.  The webinar was co-hosted by Rick Fisher, the Spanish Program Director for the Wine Guild, and Patrick Mata, co-founder of the Ole & Obrigado. Their insights were invaluable, covering everything from Albariño's history and viticulture to its diverse expressions and food-pairing versatility. Let the fun begin!  Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exp

It’s Monday, Let’s raise a glass to the beginning of another week. It’s time to unscrew, uncork or saber a bottle and let’s begin Exploring the Wine Glass!  If you think Spain is all sun-soaked reds and flamenco flair, Galicia is here to blow your wine-loving mind (gently, with a coastal breeze). Nestled in the misty northwest corner of the country, this rain-drenched region is where Albariño thrives, octopus is practically a love language, and vineyards cling to cliffs like they’re auditioning for an action movie. In this episode of Exploring the Wine Glass, we’re diving into the green heart of Spain’s Atlantic coast—Galicia—where the wines are fresh, the food is legendary, and even the bagpipes are welcome at the table. Please take a moment of your time to subscribe, rate and review Exploring the Wine Glass. It’s completely free and is a great way to let other wine lovers know about the podcast. Be sure to head over to the website, Exploringthewineglass.com, to read my award winning blog and to see what els