Welcome to #openbarstevie and Episode 2661 of the Italian Wine Podcast. 

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Attilio Scienza.

More about today’s guest:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Welcome to Clubhouse Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2660 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Elena Barattini IWA interviews Ondine de La Feld of Tenuta di Tavignano in Marche

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Describe the history and development of Tenuta di Tavignano and understand the vision and leadership of Ondine de la Feld in shaping the estate today.
• Explain the importance of Castelli di Jesi for growing Verdicchio in the Marche.
• Understand how vineyard sites, sustainability practices, and strategic estate decisions contribute to expressing identity and innovation.

More about today’s host:

Before finding her calling in wine, Elena had a successful career in sports marketing, most notably working with the Italian Olympic Committee at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. In search of a life-changing experience, she moved from Italy to London in 2011 and pursued her passion for wine. She began as a Wine Advisor at Fortnum & Mason before transitioning into hospitality, working as a Sommelier at The Royal Automobile Club and The Oriental Club. There, she was promoted to Head Sommelier/Beverage Manager and completed both the WSET Diploma and the WSET Educator Programme. She later led the Education department at Berkmann Wine Cellars until 2021 and now teaches WSET courses at all levels in various London wine schools while providing consultancy to the on-trade. As an Italian Wine Ambassador and Langhe Ambassador, Elena is passionate about sharing the rich diversity of Italian wines. Being able to inspire others and make a living from her passion is something she considers a true privilege.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barattinielena 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elena-barattini-dipwset-iwa-langhe-ambassador-iws-6b6b5630/ 

More about today’s guest:  

Tenuta di Tavignano is a historic family estate located in the Castelli di Jesi area of Le Marche, known for its strong commitment to Verdicchio. The winery is recognized among the leading producers of the denomination, with wines such as Misco gaining international acclaim. Rooted in tradition yet forward-looking, Tavignano focuses on sustainability, territorial identity, and long-term stewardship of its vineyards.

Ondine de la Feld leads the estate, bringing a background in architecture and a clear strategic vision. She guides the winery through a generational transition, combining respect for heritage with a modern approach to winemaking and brand development.

Connect:

Website: https://tenutaditavignano.it 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tenutatavignano/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tenutaditavignano 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ondine-de-la-feld-349626137/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Welcome to Episode 2659 of the Italian Wine Podcast and the 11th episode of Pellegrinaggio Enoico con Professore Attilio Scienza! This series is recorded in Italian.

Episode 11: Leggende, monasteri e vini sulla Via Romea Germanica

You want to dive into the stories and myths behind Professor Scienza’s new series, but Italian isn’t your thing? No problem! You’ll find all the conversations, translated in english, in the new Mamma Jumbo Shrimp book: An Italian Wine Pilgrimage: with Professor Attilio Scienza. Now available in English on Amazon.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine.

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

Welcome to episode 2658 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 239 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc explores the evolution of the Las Vegas dining scene through the story of Gino Ferraro, from his early beginnings after moving to the U.S., to building one of the city’s most respected Italian restaurants. The conversation dives into his journey from coffee bars and food distribution to the restaurant, his philosophy on authentic Italian cuisine, signature dishes, and the creation of an award-winning wine list with over 1,800 labels.

More about today’s guest:

Gino Ferraro is the owner, host, and wine curator behind Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar in Las Vegas, a family-run institution founded in 1985. Originally from Calabria, Italy, Gino moved to the United States at a young age, settling first in Syracuse, New York, before making Las Vegas his home in 1976.

Over nearly five decades in the city, he has built one of the most respected Italian dining destinations in Las Vegas. Today, the restaurant, located on Paradise Road, remains a true family operation, co-owned with his wife Rosalba, with their son Mimmo serving as Executive Chef and carrying forward multi-generational recipes.

A passionate advocate for Italian wine, Gino has curated one of the most extensive Italian-focused wine lists in Las Vegas, featuring almost 1,800 labels. His dedication to wine has earned international recognition, including the Tre Bottiglie award for the wine list and the prestigious Tre Forchette for the restaurant’s cuisine from Gambero Rosso, as well as the Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator.

Connect:

Website: https://www.ferraroslasvegas.com/about-us/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ferraroslv/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ferraroslv/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gino-ferraro-26238ba/ 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Welcome to episode 2657 of the Italian Wine Podcast recorded live at Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026.

As an official media partner, Italian Wine Podcast brings you firsthand insights from Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino 2026, Piedmont's premier wine event that took place on January 26-27, in Turin. Join top producers, buyers, and experts to explore emerging styles, winemaking innovations, and market trends shaping the region's future. From Barolo and Barbaresco to hidden gems, this series offers in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, revealing Piedmont's impact on the global wine scene.

Today’s guest: Paolo Bongioanni, Councillor for Agriculture, Food, Hunting, Fishing, Parks, Tourism and Sport of the Piedmont Region.

About the Grandi Langhe: 

Grandi Langhe e il Piemonte del Vino is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine events, dedicated to showcasing the excellence of Piedmont. Organized with the support of the region’s leading wine consortia, it brings together hundreds of producers representing top denominations such as Barolo, Barbaresco, Roero, Gavi, Asti, and Alta Langa. The event is designed as a key meeting point for international trade, offering tastings, professional networking, and a powerful snapshot of Piedmont’s role in the global wine market.

Discover more: https://www.grandilanghe.com/  

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Welcome to Episode 2656 and Episode 8 of The Art of Wine Storytelling with Ryan Robinson. 

In this episode, Ryan explores the bridge between myth and modern wine—uncovering how history, legend, and storytelling shape the way we understand and experience wine today.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an eager student, or simply a curious wine lover, The Art of Wine Storytelling takes you on a journey that bridges ancient history with modern consumer culture. Discover how wine is much more than just a drink – it’s a narrative shaped by centuries of tradition, innovation and human interaction. Ignite your imagination, deepen your appreciation for wine, and be inspired to savor not just what’s in the bottle, but the remarkable story behind each and every glass.

About Ryan Robinson:

Ryan Robinson is the Director of Education for Brescome-Barton Inc., and Worldwide Wines in Connecticut, an Adjunct Professor at the University of New Haven, and is the Principal at SommCentric, a beverage education and consulting agency. He is a member on the USA Wine Tasting Team, representing the United States and the World Wine Tasting Championships and holds the credentials of Advanced Sommelier-CMS; WSET Diploma and WSET Educator in Wine, Sake and Beer; Rioja Wine Educator; VIA Italian Wine Ambassador; Wine Scholar Guild Educator and Italian and Spanish Wine Specialist; and Certified Scotch Whisky.

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommryan/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sommryan/ 

The Art of Wine Storytelling by Professor Attilio Scienza is available now at: https://mammajumboshrimp.com/products/the-art-of-wine-storytelling 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Welcome to Clubhouse’s Ambassadors’ Corner and Episode 2655 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Mauricio De Chiaro IWA interviews Anna De Backer of I Divini winery in Isola d’Asti, in Piemonte. The conversation focuses on the unique identity of the Isola d’Asti area and Anna’s journey from architect in Belgium to winemaker in Italy.

These sessions are recorded from Clubhouse and reproduced here for the Italian Wine Podcast. 

Key Learning Objectives:

• Explore Anna’s journey from Belgium to Italy, taking a leap of faith to become a winemaker and build a life in the vineyards from scratch.
• Understand the challenges and determination behind creating a new project without inherited vineyards, and the work required to establish a place in the market.
• Discover how dedication, vision, and perseverance can lead to outstanding wine quality in a relatively short time.

More about today’s host:  

As an Italian Wine Ambassador based in Brazil and in Piemonte, Mauricio has recently visited more than 150 wineries in Italy and is actively promoting Italian wines in Brazil and for Brazilians around the globe, particularly highlighting lesser-known native grapes. With a 30+ year career in finance as a background, he is also bringing his business expertise into the Italian wine industry.

Mauricio created The Wine Partners, a buyers’ club that bridges the best talent in the industry with more engaged, 'hands-on' wine lovers. This platform empowers small, family-owned producers by allowing Partners not only to buy direct but also to have unique winemaking experiences. The Wine Partners has chapters in Miami, Orlando, NY, Lisbon, and São Paulo. Mauricio has discovered an immense number of smaller wine producers who offer high-quality yet unrecognized wines, making Italy the place to be for the avid wine lover.

Connect:

Website: http://www.thewinepartners.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dechiaroma/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauriciodechiaro/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dechiaroma 

More about today’s guest:  

Anna De Backer is a Belgian-born winemaker and co-owner of I Divini, a small family winery based in Isola d’Asti, in Piemonte, where she works alongside her husband. I Divini focuses on sustainable agriculture and the production of elegant, contemporary wines from autochthonous grape varieties, with a strong emphasis on expressing the character of the territory and a sense of identity in every bottle.

After a first career in interior architecture, Anna chose to completely retrain and follow her passion for wine, moving to Italy to build a new life in the vineyards. Her creative background continues to shape her approach today, inspiring a thoughtful and intuitive style of winemaking.

Connect:

Website: https://www.idivini.wine 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idivini_azienda_agricola/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/iDiviniAziendaAgricola 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/idivini/ 

_______________________________ 

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin! 

Follow Italian Wine Podcast for more great content – winery interviews from the Clubhouse sessions! Psssst…FYI, this show is our most popular show, find out why by tuning-in!

Welcome to Episode 2654 of the Italian Wine Podcast and the 10th episode of Pellegrinaggio Enoico con Professore Attilio Scienza! This series is recorded in Italian.

Episode 10: Vini, leggende e vitigni tra Romagna e Toscana

You want to dive into the stories and myths behind Professor Scienza’s new series, but Italian isn’t your thing? No problem! You’ll find all the conversations, translated in english, in the new Mamma Jumbo Shrimp book: An Italian Wine Pilgrimage: with Professor Attilio Scienza. Now available in English on Amazon.

A true oenological journey led by Professor Attilio Scienza in the company of Stevie Kim, winding its way across the peninsula, following ancient Roman roads, paths of faith, and historical itineraries. Genetics, morphology, climate change, and the concept of viticulture vocation come together to tell the story of our grape varieties and their inextricable bond with the territory. Expect amazing stories, random digressions, curious anecdotes, and a new way of thinking about wine.

Join us on A Wine Pilgrimage with Professor Attilio Scienza.

More about Professor Scienza:

Professor Attilio Scienza is the one who checks all the facts and regulates when we mistakenly type “Verdicchio” instead of “Vermentino.” He is a full professor at the University of Milan in the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences where he teaches courses on genetic improvements to the vine; he also teaches Viticulture in the Master’s program of the University of Turin in Asti. 

He has been the lead for many national research projects in the field of physiology, agricultural techniques, and vine genetics. As the author of over 350 publications on vine and viticulture in national and international journals, you can bet he knows his stuff!

To find out more about Attilio Scienza visit: https://www.vinitaly.com/formazione/vinitaly-international-academy/attilio-scienza/ 

If you want to learn more about Stevie Kim, the Scienza wrangler:

https://www.vinitaly.com/eventi/operawine/stevie-kim/ 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Share your love for our lovely Professor if you are a true Italian Wine Geek 🙂

Welcome to episode 2653 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 238 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc speaks with Sara Catabbo, exploring Molise and its native grape, Tintilia. Once nearly forgotten, Tintilia was rediscovered by Sara’s father and is now at the heart of the family’s winemaking story.

More about today’s guest:

Catabbo is a family-run winery based in San Martino in Pensilis, in Molise, dedicated to the revival of Tintilia, a once nearly forgotten native grape. Founded on the vision of Vincenzo Catabbo, one of the pioneers in rediscovering and replanting Tintilia, the estate is now carried forward by the second generation.

Today, the winery works with organically certified vineyards, focusing on authenticity and a strong sense of place. From vineyard to cellar—including the use of amphorae—Catabbo aims to express the pure character of Tintilia and the identity of Molise in every bottle.

Sara Catabbo, together with her siblings, represents the new generation behind the winery, contributing to its development and international presence while continuing the family’s commitment to preserving local wine heritage.

Connect:

Website: https://catabbo.it/en/home/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catabbocantine/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catabbocantine 

More about the host:

Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he's not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.

Connect:

Website: 

https://www.quaypress.uk  

https://www.marcmillon.co.uk 

https://www.vino.co.uk   

https://www.quaypress.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!

Welcome to #openbarstevie and Episode 2652 of the Italian Wine Podcast. 

It’s a casual video podcast filmed in the office, where wine people drop by, open a bottle or two, and hang out with moi! 😝 Sometimes they come alone, often in pairs or small groups. The conversation flows naturally and is not limited to wine. It touches on family, friendships, work, failures, successes, current events, and above all the Italian way of living.

This is not an interview series in the traditional sense. It is closer to friends meeting at aperitivo time. Wine is the excuse, NOT the subject. The focus is on lived experience. What it really means to live and work in Italy today. The beauty, the contradictions, the chaos, the privilege, and the everyday rituals that define Italian lifestyle.

💡 Format:

30 to 45 minutes

Filmed in the office with a relaxed, low-production setup

1 to 3 guests per episode

Guests can be producers, communicators, importers, educators, creatives, or friends of the wine world. Any recommendations for potential guests⁉️

Today’s guest is Cristina Mercuri MW.

More about today’s guest:

Cristina Mercuri MW is an acclaimed wine educator, presenter, and Founder & CEO of Mercuri Wine Club, an innovative academy and consultancy supporting leading Italian wine brands in education, communication, and marketing. She conducts masterclasses, judges internationally, consults for private and promotional events, and contributes regularly to Forbes. Formerly a lawyer, she transitioned to wine in 2015, achieving her WSET Diploma in 2017 and joining the MW programme in 2018/19. In 2026, she successfully passed her research paper and became Italy’s first female Master of Wine. Between 2019 and 2022, she became a Certified Sherry, Cava, and Port Educator, as well as Italian VDP Ambassador. Cristina trains students from beginners to WSET Diploma candidates and provides bespoke corporate training focused on sales strategies and marketing tools. She collaborates with consortia, wineries, distributors, restaurants, and luxury brands. She is also among Italy’s most-followed wine educators on Instagram (@cristinamercuri_wine).

Connect:

Website: https://www.wine-club.it/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cristinamercuri_wine/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-mercuri-dipwset-004376a/ 

More about the host:

Stevie Kim is an Italian wine marketing & communication expert, bandpositioning specialist, and public speaker based in Verona, Italy. As Managing Partner at Vinitaly, she leads key initiatives, including OperaWine, Vinitaly International Academy, wine2wine Business Forum, and 5StarWines. A passionate Italian Wine Evangelist, she harnesses social media and education to promote Italian wine on a global scale.

The Italian Wine Podcast is part of Mamma Jumbo Shrimp, a brand Stevie launched in 2020 to make wine more accessible through books, maps, videos, and the Italian Wine Travel with Stevie YouTube series. Stevie often joins Professor Scienza in his shows to lend a hand keeping our Professor in check! You can also find her taking a hit for the team when she goes “On the Road”, all over the Italian countryside, visiting wineries and interviewing producers, enjoying their best food and wine – all in the name of bringing us great Pods!

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steviekim222/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-kim-0646b04/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

_______________________________

Let's keep in touch! Follow Italian Wine Podcast on our social media channels:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast 

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast 

If you feel like helping us, donate here: https://www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ 

Until next time, Cin Cin!

Welcome to Voices and Episode 2651 of the Italian Wine Podcast. In this episode, Cynthia Chaplin speaks with Jeremy McCarty, founder of Diversity Wines, about his journey into wine, the evolution of his platform supporting diverse and women-owned businesses, and its mission to make wine more inclusive and accessible. They also explore his earlier project MyKauz and a new partnership with the AI-powered platform PairAnything, aimed at reshaping how consumers discover and connect with wine.

More about the guest:

Jeremy McCarty is the initiator of the Diversity Wines platform, a hub for diverse/woman owned wineries, wine lounges, wine creatives and wine professionals to collaborate, market to consumers and take advantage of discounted services.  The website is a searchable worldwide directory of diverse/woman owned wine brands and establishes communities of wine consumers to socialize and meet each other.

Connect:

Website: https://www.diversitywines.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversitywines/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556829729939

More about our host: 

VIA certified Italian Wine Ambassador and sommelier with FIS, Cynthia Chaplin is a professor of Italian Wine and Culture, with 20 years experience in the wine industry. Cynthia is a certified wine educator, author, international judge, and content creator. She designs and presents events for embassies, corporate and private clients, develops Italian wine collections for restaurants and private clients and works with Italian wineries to train their sales and export staff.

Hosting Voices has increased her commitment to DEI in the wine sector, interviewing emerging and established wine professionals and discussing topics such as inclusivity, equity, language, sustainability and challenges facing under-represented groups and cultures as they move into careers in wine. As a certified WSET Educator, Cynthia is passionate about developing wine education for a future that will have a place at the table for anyone interested in wine.

Connect:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Italian-Wines-in-English/100036868372598/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiss_my_glassx/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-

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Until next time, Cin Cin!