The Wine Down Podcast

Does the right wine glass really make a difference? In this episode of the Wine Down, we explore why glassware matters and how the shape, size, and style of a glass can change the way wine smells, tastes, and feels. From bold reds to crisp whites and sparkling pours, this conversation breaks down the basics of wine glassware in a simple, approachable way.If you’ve ever wondered whether all wine glasses are created equal, this episode will help you understand what really matters when choosing the right glass for the occasion. Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

Climate change is reshaping the wine world in real time. In this episode, we explore how rising temperatures are pushing vineyards into new regions, changing the meaning of terroir, and creating both challenges and opportunities for winemakers around the globe.From Ontario to California, from Europe to the Southern Hemisphere, we look at how growers, researchers, and policymakers are responding with climate-smart farming, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions designed to keep wine production resilient in a warming world.If you’re interested in wine, sustainability, agriculture, or the future of food and drink, this episode offers a thoughtful look at one of the most fascinating transformations happening today.You can find the video for this week’s episode here. Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

March 13 marks International Riesling Day, chosen because it commemorates the first known written mention of the grape variety "Riesling" (as "Riesslingen") on this exact date in 1435, recorded in a cellar log from Germany's Rheingau region. This "birthday" for Riesling was declared in 2019 by Wines of Germany to celebrate its storied history and incredible range. So in honour of this day, we’re taking five big Riesling myths and dissecting them, one by one.The truth about Riesling is that it is a powerful grape. Today, Riesling remains one of the most dynamic grapes in the world, with its market steadily expanding at a projected 4.5% CAGR through 2033, thanks to renewed interest in versatile, food-friendly whites that bridge casual sipping and fine dining. Drier styles with lower alcohol levels are leading the charge, appealing to health-conscious drinkers and younger generations who favour crisp, refreshing profiles over heavier oaked wines. At the same time, off-dry and sweet expressions continue to shine in pairings, given their incredible balance due to that vibrant acidity.Producers are adapting smartly to climate realities, turning challenges into strengths. In traditional cool-climate homes like Germany’s Mosel and Rheingau, slightly warmer growing seasons have enhanced ripening potential while preserving that signature piercing acidity. However, regions like Australia’s Clare Valley are innovating with higher-elevation vineyards, drought-resistant rootstocks, and regenerative practices to safeguard water and soil health, ensuring Riesling’s tense balance of fruit, minerality, and freshness endures.Looking ahead, Riesling’s future looks bright as sustainability certifications and low-intervention winemaking elevate its eco-appeal. Niagara producers, right here at home, are excelling with mineral-driven, age-worthy bottles that rival Old World benchmarks.So, on this International Riesling Day, grab a bottle of Riesling, from whatever region you prefer, and toast to a grape that’s as forward-thinking as it is historic. Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

Video Version.Orange wine is one of those styles that everyone’s talking about, but not everyone really understands. Is it a white wine? Is it a rosé? Is it just “funky natural wine”?In this episode, I break down exactly what orange wine is in plain language, so you can walk into any shop or restaurant and feel confident about what you’re ordering and why it tastes the way it does.We’ll get into how orange wine is actually made, what makes it different from white wine and rosé, and why that extended skin contact changes everything, from colour, to texture, to those wild flavour profiles people either love or side-eye. I also chat through what you can expect in the glass, from tea-like tannins to those savoury, citrusy, sometimes slightly oxidative notes, and where these wines are coming from around the world.If you’ve ever stared at an orange wine on a list and thought, “Is this for me?”, this one’s for you. Hit play on the podcast if you want to listen while you go about your day, or watch the full video for the best experience with visuals, labels, and side-by-side examples that bring the whole orange wine story to life.Resources: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/what-is-orange-wine Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

Tired of viral infographics pushing dry Pinot Noir with Kit Kat, Aero, or Coffee Crisp? 😩 In this Wine Down, I debunk the myths with real science: wine must match or beat the chocolate's sugar.I also make mention of a key study, found in this blog, that breaks down the science behind pairing flavours. This is a must read.Want to watch the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/FQye08z1y2U?si=h2rhsNSfKFL5VqeN Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the diverse terroirs that define Ontario’s three major wine appellations - the Niagara Peninsula, Lake Erie North Shore, and Prince Edward County. Discover how climate, soil, and geography shape the signature styles of Ontario wines, from the mineral-driven Chardonnays of Niagara to the expressive reds of Lake Erie North Shore and the vibrant, cool-climate wines of Prince Edward County. Full YouTube video with maps can be found here. Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

Wondering what "dealcoholized wine" vs "non-alcoholic wine" actually means? This episode breaks it down simply—no more label confusion when you're doing Dry January 2026, cutting back for health, pregnancy, sobriety, or faith reasons. Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

The Top 9 Wine Trends of 20252025 was less about one “hot grape” and more about how, when, and why people drink wine. Consumers are drinking a little less overall but are trading up when they do open a bottle, and they are more curious, health-conscious, and climate-aware than five years ago.​In this episode we talk about the top 9 wine trends for 2025.Here are links to some of the blogs we mention or that will help you unpack more of today's episode.Corpinnat: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/celler-pardas-and-the-love-affair-i-have-with-itOrganic and Biodynamic wines: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/unveiling-the-essence-organic-and-biodynamic-wines-explainedLow to No Alcohol Wines: https://www.beverlycrandon.com/post/the-difference-between-non-alcoholic-and-dealcoholized-wine Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode we explore the beauty and complexity of Domaine Le Clos Jordanne’s Single Vineyard Clos De Kew 2023 Pinot Noir In this detailed tasting journey, discover the unique limestone-rich terroir of the Beamsville Bench, reflected in vibrant aromas of red and black fruit, and subtle spice.Join us to uncover what makes Clos De Kew 2023 a true standout expression of Niagara’s premium terroirs!Looking for the video version of this episode - here it is https://youtu.be/fdSzgOTIrk8?si=8DeYYgXzgxCtLD5N Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe

Hosting the holidays just got easier. Discover the 3 essential wines you need to have at home for every guest, every occasion, and every last-minute invite. Get full access to The Cultured Cork at culturedcork.substack.com/subscribe