Five Questions with Jochen Michalski - Founder & CEO of Cork Supply

In this episode of Five Questions, Billy sits down with Jochen Michalski, Founder and CEO of Cork Supply, one of the world’s leading suppliers of premium natural corks, barrels, and closures to wineries around the globe.From founding the company in California in 1981 to expanding across Europe, Australia, and South Africa, Jochen shares insights from over four decades at the intersection of craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation. He discusses the future of cork, the challenge of declining wine consumption, and why he believes de-alcoholized wines miss the mark, plus, a memorable (and very expensive) wine experience in the Maldives.🔑 Episode HighlightsThe founding and global growth of Cork SupplySustainability and the remarkable life cycle of natural corkThe biggest issue facing the wine industry today: consumptionWhy Jochen isn’t convinced by de-alcoholized winesA surprising $2,500 wine story from the Maldives⏱️ Timestamps00:00 — Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast00:19 — Welcome to Five Questions00:44 — Interview with Jochen Michalski Begins00:52 — Jochen’s Role in the Wine Industry02:08 — Biggest Issue Facing the Wine World03:15 — The Truth About Natural Corks04:38 — Dislike for De-Alcoholized Wines05:53 — A Memorable Wine Experience08:20 — Conclusion and ThanksThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected]!