Episodes

  • Episode 318-Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle

    Episode 318-Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle
    Jun 21 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 318 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sip, Sense, and Savor: Unlocking the Mindful Glass with Carrie Boyle Cheers, wine lovers! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), your hosts Kim and Mark sit down with the incredibly multi-talented Carrie Boyle. Carrie isn’t just a wine specialist; she is a renowned educator, judge, and the author of the transformative book, “The Mindful Glass: Hands-on Wine Lab.” If you’ve ever wanted to deepen your connection to what’s in your glass, this episode is a masterclass in sensory exploration! Inside the Episode: A Journey Through the Vine: Carrie shares her fascinating background in the wine world and gives us a peek into the exciting projects she is currently working on. Health First: We dive into why The Mindful Glass begins with a health advisory and the importance of approaching wine with intention. The Art of Mindfulness: Learn how to slow down and truly experience wine through the lens of mindfulness. Building Aroma Memories: Carrie explains her unique method for building "aroma capsules" to help you identify and remember scents forever. The Wine Lab Experiments: We get hands-on discussing Carrie’s experiments with acidity and glassware. Demystifying the 20-Point Scale: We break down the professional 20-point scoring scale. Entertaining & Future Flips: Carrie shares her secrets for entertaining with wine and gives us an exclusive scoop on her next book project! Whether you are a novice or a seasoned sommelier, Carrie’s "Wine Lab" approach will change the way you pour your next glass. Connect with our guest: Explore Carrie’s book and educational resources at: 💻 www.the-mindful-glass.com Keep up with Kim and Mark: For more episodes and wine resources, visit us at: 💻 www.thewww.wine Cheers 🍷🍷🍷 Kim and Mark #WinePodcast #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine #TheMindfulGlass #WineEducation #WineTasting #MindfulDrinking #AromaMemories #FoodAndWine #WineLovers #CarrieBoyle #WineExperiments
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • Episode 317-Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz

    Episode 317-Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz
    Jun 7 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 317 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Tariffs, Triumphs, and the Supreme Court: A Conversation with Victor Owen Schwartz In this landmark episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with a true titan of the industry and a recent headline-maker: Victor Owen Schwartz. As the founder and president of VOS Selections, a premier New York-based importer and distributor, Victor shares the incredible journey of his career—one that started not with a vineyard, but with a bold letter to the legendary British wine expert Steven Spurrier. We dive deep into the mechanics of the industry, the complexities of the Three-Tier System, and the realities of wine taxes. However, the conversation takes a historic turn as we discuss Victor's role as the plaintiff in the 2025 Supreme Court case, Schwartz vs. Trump. In This Episode, We Discuss: The Spark: How a single letter to Steven Spurrier launched a lifelong career. Industry Insights: A masterclass on importing, distributing, and navigating the Three-Tier System. The Legal Battle: The inside story of the Supreme Court case that shook the trade. The Win: Detailed analysis of Victor's successful challenge against tariffs and what it means for the future of wine. A Surprising Correspondence: The story behind the personal letter Victor received from former VP Mike Pence. Connect with Our Guest and Show: VOS Selections: www.vosselections.com The Wonderful World of Wine(WWW): www.thewww.wine Cheers 🍷🍷🍷 Kim and Mark #WinePodcast #VOSSelections #WineIndustry #SupremeCourt #SchwartzVsTrump #WineTariffs #ThreeTierSystem #WineEducation #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine #WineImporting
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • Episode 316-From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May

    Episode 316-From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May
    May 24 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 316 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Food Critic to Wine Titan With Meridith May In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with a true powerhouse of the industry: Meridith May. As the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of both The Somm Journal www.sommjournal.com and The Tasting Panel Magazine www.tastingpanelmag.com Meridith has her finger on the pulse of the global wine scene. We trace Meridith’s fascinating journey from her days as a food critic to becoming a leading publisher and owner. Whether you are a casual enthusiast or a seasoned professional, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how wine media actually works. What’s Decanting in This Episode: The Origin Story: How Meridith transitioned from critiquing plates to publishing pages. Tailored for the Taster: We break down which publication fits your wine style—whether you’re a wine lover or a dedicated retailer. The "Who’s Who" of Wine: A look at the industry legends who contribute to the magazines (including some familiar voices from our show!). The Power of Print: Why physical media still reigns supreme and the tactile joy of having a magazine in hand. A Buyer’s Secret Weapon: Mark explains how he uses Meridith’s reviews to curate selections that match his profile and discover hidden gems. The "Smooch" Factor: We dive deep into their unique rating system. Forget just numbers—we’re talking points and "smooches"! Hot Topics & Red Flags: Meridith shares her insights on the current state of the wine world and the trends (or concerns) she’s watching closely. The Big Question: How many wines does a professional reviewer actually taste in a single month? The answer might leave your palate exhausted just hearing it! Get Connected Ready to upgrade your coffee table? We wrap up by showing you exactly how to get your hands on these publications and share a few "insider" facts that will totally surprise you. Cheers 🍷🍷🍷 Kim and Mark www.thewww.wine #WinePodcast #SommJournal #TastingPanel #WineReviews #WineCulture #PrintIsNotDead #SommelierLife #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • Episode 315-Sustainability with Sandra Taylor

    Episode 315-Sustainability with Sandra Taylor
    May 10 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 315 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Sustainability with Sandra Taylor In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark dive deep into the world of sustainable viticulture with special guest Sandra Taylor. As the author of Vines and Values: A Consumer’s Guide to Sustainable Wine, Sandra brings a unique perspective to the table, sharing her fascinating professional journey from law school to earning a wine MBA. The conversation breaks down the complexities of what "sustainable wine" actually means, why it is becoming a critical focus for the industry, and—most importantly—how you can identify these practices on a bottle label. Sandra explores the nuances of sustainability in both the vineyard and the cellar, shedding light on the reality of wine additives and the ongoing debate between "Big Wine" and artisanal productions. Key topics covered in this episode: The Weight of Quality: Does a heavy glass bottle actually mean the wine inside is better? Organic vs. Certified: Understanding the distinction between "wine made with organic grapes" and "certified organic wine." Beyond the Soil: A look into biodynamics and vegan wine. The Future of Buying: Sandra introduces her upcoming "Wine-Watch" 50-point sustainable rating system, a potential game-changer for conscious consumers. To learn more about Sandra’s work, visit sandraetaylor.com. For more episodes and wine education, head over to thewww.wine. Cheers, Kim and Mark 🍷🍷🍷 #WinePodcast #SustainableWine #VinesAndValues #WineEducation #OrganicWine #BiodynamicWine #EcoFriendly #WineLabels #WineIndustry #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine #VeganWine #SandraTaylor
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Episode 314-From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery

    Episode 314-From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery
    Apr 26 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 314 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! From Prescriptions to Stills with GlenPharmer Distillery In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), hosts Kim and Mark sit down with Beth and Patrick Downing, the visionary owners of Franklin, Massachusetts’ own GlenPharmer Distillery. It’s a fascinating look at how a professional background in pharmacy provided the perfect scientific foundation for transitioning into the world of craft spirits and hospitality. We dive deep into their incredible journey, from the initial concept to navigating the unprecedented challenge of launching a distillery and restaurant just as a global pandemic was beginning. Patrick and Beth share how they managed to make such a monumental feat sound easy. Inside the Episode: A Nod to Franklin History: We explore the storied past of the building that GlenPharmer calls home and its unique historical connection to the town's hat-making industry. Science in the Glass: Learn about the distillery's seasonal focus on both its restaurant menu and its innovative cocktail program. Patrick shares some "science of the cocktail" tips that you can use at home. Award-Winning Spirits: We discuss their lineup of acclaimed products and reveal the surprising production capacity of this local powerhouse. The Business of Spirits: From the nuances of serving laws in the distillery versus their event space to the complexities of distribution and shipping. The "Geeky" Details: We get into the nitty-gritty of the industry, discussing everything from distillery taxes to the mystery of the "Angel’s Share." Whether you are a Franklin local or a spirits enthusiast, you will love the story of grit, science, and community behind GlenPharmer. Learn More: GlenPharmer Distillery: www.glenpharmer.com The Wonderful World of Wine: www.thewww.wine Cheers, Kim and Mark 🍷🥃🍷 #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine #GlenPharmerDistillery #CraftSpirits #FranklinMA #ShopLocal #DistilleryLife #CocktailScience #PharmacyToDistillery #AngelsShare #WineAndSpiritsPodcast
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Episode 313-Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik

    Episode 313-Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik
    Apr 12 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 313 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Decoding the Wine Label with Marie Cheslik Ever feel like you need a PhD and a Rosetta Stone just to pick a decent bottle of Cabernet? You aren’t alone. This week on The Wonderful World of Wine(WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with Marie Cheslik, the brilliant sommelier and author behind the essential new book, “How to Read a Wine Label.” Marie isn't your average wine expert—she’s a nurse and Sommelier who uses a stethoscope and corkscrew. We dive deep into the surprising parallels between the ICU and the cellar, proving that wine doesn't have to be intimidating; it just needs a little "triage." 🔍 Inside This Episode: The Nurse’s Palate: Marie shares how her background in nursing shaped her approachable, no-nonsense perspective on wine. Label Pet Peeves: Find out what common marketing gimmicks drive Marie crazy when she looks at a bottle. The "Additive" Debate: We peel back the foil on what’s actually inside your wine beyond just grapes. Teach a Man to Fish: Marie explains her philosophy on wine education—giving you the tools to choose for yourself rather than just following a "Top 10" list. Google vs. The Label: Is whipping out your phone in the wine aisle cheating? We discuss using tech to decode the glass. The "Body" Language of Wine: * Why Marie is officially "anti-milk" when it comes to describing wine texture. Kim pitches her "Soup Theory"—does it hold water (or broth)? Reading the Fine Print: A masterclass on the Address Statement and why the Importer might be the most important name on the back of the bottle. The French Connection: Marie drops an absolute gem of a line regarding the complexity (and ego) of French wine labels. The Tie-Breaker: Two wines. Same price. Same grape. Same region. How do you choose? Marie gives us her foolproof "shelf-side" strategy. 🔗 Connect With Us Guest: Marie Cheslik Explore her work and grab her book at www.slikwines.com The Wonderful World of Wine Visit us for more episodes and wine wisdom at www.thewww.wine Cheers Kim & Mark 🍷🍷🍷 #WinePodcast #Sommelier #WineLabels #SlikWines #WineEducation #WineTips #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine #WineAdditives #DrinkBetter #HowToReadAWineLabel
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins
  • Episode 312-Parenting, Wine And Playful Rhymes With Danielle Frank

    Episode 312-Parenting, Wine And Playful Rhymes With Danielle Frank
    Mar 29 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 312 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! Parenting, Wine, and Playful Rhymes 🍷 Grab a glass and settle in! In this episode of The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW), Kim and Mark sit down with the witty and insightful Danielle Frank, author of the book, A Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting. Danielle joins the show to share her journey from wine professional to "parenting poet," offering a refreshing (and hilarious) perspective on how to survive the toddler years with your palate intact. Episode Highlights Beyond the "Mommy Wine Culture": We dive into the nuances of wine culture in parenting. Danielle shares her take on why we need more humor and less judgment when it comes to balancing a love for Viticulture with the chaos of kids. Rhymes and Reasons: Danielle describes her book as "tongue-in-cheek" for a reason. She walks us through the inspiration behind her clever rhymes and how humor can be a tool for navigating the ups and downs of motherhood. Live Readings: Get ready for a treat! Danielle reads two exclusive lessons from her book. We break down her creative takes on: Nosing & Aromas: Why you child should smell like your wine The Tantrum Pairing: What to pour when the floor-screaming starts. The Bully Lesson: Using wine wisdom to handle playground politics. The Golden Standard: As a Champagne expert, Danielle weighs in on the current status of bubbly in the wine world. Is it still the ultimate luxury, or is it becoming an everyday essential? What’s Next? Danielle gives us an exclusive sneak peek at her upcoming project: A Whiskey Lover’s Guide to Dog Breeds. Connect with Danielle Frank Want to grab a copy of the book or follow Danielle’s journey? Website: A Wine Lover's Guide to Parenting Instagram: @createagreatstory Cheers! Kim and Mark 🍷🍷🍷 www.thewww.wine
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • Episode 311-The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors

    Episode 311-The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors
    Mar 15 2026
    The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) Episode 311 Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi exploring all things wine with you! The Liquid Jazz Experience with Inventor Michael Fors In this episode, Kim and Mark dive into the art of aeration with Michael Fors, a Massachusetts-based wine inventor and the creator of The Liquid Jazz Experience. Michael shares the fascinating journey of how a background in home winemaking and a simple trip to the beach sparked the creation of a revolutionary, patented decanter and glassware system. Inside the Episode From Vines to Inventions: Michael discusses his roots in home winemaking and how his hands-on experience with the "life" of wine led him to seek a better way to express its hidden notes. The "Beach Eureka" Moment: Discover how the natural motion of the ocean inspired Michael to move away from traditional swirling and toward the "rocking" motion that defines his brand. Visualizing the Design: Michael describes his unique decanter and aerating wine glasses in detail. Learn about the "note-opening ridges" at the base of the decanter that create a cascading "wave" effect to speed up oxidation without losing delicate aromas. The Science of Decanting: Kim breaks down the "why" behind decanting—from softening harsh tannins in young reds to allowing older vintages to shed sediment and breathe. The Hands-On Test: Kim and Mark share their personal experience meeting Michael and the results of their "test drive" using the rocking decanter and glasses. The Rocking Revolution: * Rocking vs. Swirling: Michael explains why rocking the wine is a more efficient and gentler way to aerate than the traditional stem-swirl. The Rocking Stand: A look at his invention of a specialized stand that brings a theatrical and functional element to restaurant service. The Inventor’s Path: Michael provides a "behind-the-scenes" look at the patent process and the uphill battle of convincing traditional wineries to embrace a device that fundamentally changes the profile of their wine. Product Details & Where to Buy The Liquid Jazz Experience is designed to make wine "hit all the right notes" in minutes rather than hours. Website: www.liquidjazzexperience.com Cost & Availability: Michael discusses pricing for the Rocking Wave Decanter and Aerating Glasses, and where you can pick them up for your own collection. "You will hear the passion of a true Massachusetts inventor throughout this episode. It’s time to stop swirling and start rocking." Cheers Kim and Mark 🍷🍷🍷 www.thewww.wine
    Show More Show Less
    35 mins