Episode 09: Jasmin Swan (Katla Wines) on PIWIs in the Mosel Valley

12/10/20 • 43 min

Jasmin Swan of Katla Wines, is a new negociant from the “Alt Mosel", a term she coined for the new faces making wines with diverse approaches in the Mosel Valley. Today, I interview Jas about her journey from sommelier in Iceland to winemaker in Germany. Specifically, we chat about the use of PIWI’s as part of sustainable agriculture.

PIWIs are hybrids-varieties made by crossing 2 different Vitis species-- bred specifically for their fungus resistant capabilities. This means that they require less spraying, therefore less costs, less tractor emissions, and less soil compaction. Finally, Jas and I talk about the market reception of PIWIs and her future projects.

Instagram: @terroirmerroir

Instagram: @terroirmerroir

Previous Episode

Episode 08: Amy Christine MW and Pat Farrell MD, MW on Alcohol and Cancer

Today we will be broaching a subject that might make you uncomfortable--the relationship between alcohol and cancer. The reason for this discussion is personal; I was diagnosed with breast cancer this October. The causes of breast cancer are debated, but it is pretty clear that alcohol does not help. So how do I continue a life now devoted to wine? What is a suitable balance between my passion and its risks? The opinions of doctors vary considerably on the subject.

Today, I welcome Amy Christine, Master of Wine, owner of Holus Bolus winery, and sales representative in Los Angeles for Kermit Lynch. Amy wrote an insightful and personal article about her journey with breast cancer, which is included in the episode’s notes. We are joined by Pat Farrell, Master of Wine and Doctor of Medicine. Our conversation will highlight some research on the causes of certain cancers, including alcohol.

Please be aware that what we discuss is for informational purposes only. Everyone is different, everyone’s family history is different, it is important that you consult your own doctor for medical advice.

Amy's article: https://www.imspeakingwine.com/writings/wineandcancer

Instagram: @holusboluswine @acloveswine

Website: https://www.thejoyfantastic.com/

https://www.mastersofwine.org/patrick-farrell-mw

Next Episode

Episode 10: Zach Lawless (Good Goods) on Reusing Glass Wine Bottles

Today, I speak with Zach Lawless, founder of Good Goods, a bottle return program where you bring back your empty wine bottles to participating wine stores in exchange for credits towards future wine purchases. A bottle of wine’s biggest carbon footprint is the manufacturing of the glass bottle. In the Good Goods program, the bottles are reused instead of recycled--recycling a bottle saves 7% in carbon emissions whereas reusing a bottle saves 52%.

Zach and I talk about his market research with the glass milk bottle reuse programs, how the Crying Indian Campaign helped people recycle more, and how the current situation with recycling is not as good as it should be.

Instagram: @_thegoodgoods.co_

Website: thegoodgoods.co