Eerily Delicious: How to Pick Wine for a Spooky Time

10/16/24 • 30 min

Welcome to a spine-tingling episode of Wine Behind the Scenes! As autumn sets in, we’re joined by wine expert Judith Lewis to uncork some unconventional delights like pumpkin and apple wines. Get ready for a whimsical path through the quirky history of these brews, perfect fall food pairings, and even some Halloween-themed wine labels like Coffin Ridge and Skeleton Malbec. Plus, we’ve got delicious fall recipes and a fun new wine term to add to your vocabulary. So, grab your glass and dive into the rich, playful flavours of fall on Wine Behind the Scenes! In this episode you will be able to:

Discover the enchanting and slightly spooky world of autumn wines, including unique options like pumpkin and apple wines.
Learn about the quirky history and production methods of pumpkin wine, dating back to colonial times in North America.
Understand the difference between apple wine and hard cider, and explore the sweetness and flavour profiles of each.
Enjoy a fun discussion on Halloween-themed wine labels, featuring creative names like Coffin Ridge, Vampire Vineyards, and Skeleton Malbec.
Get inspired with mouth-watering fall recipe suggestions that pair perfectly with pumpkin and apple wines.
Explore spooky ghost stories related to apple orchards and winemaking traditions, adding a mystical touch to your fall gatherings.

Judith Lewis is a renowned wine expert and passionate storyteller, known for her engaging discussions on the enchanting art of wines. With a unique flair for uncovering unconventional wine varieties, Judith brings a wealth of knowledge about seasonal wines, including the intriguing fields of pumpkin and apple wines. Her expertise extends beyond just tasting; she dove into the quirky histories and production methods behind these unconventional gems. Judith's background in understanding wine, coupled with her adventurous spirit, allows her to explore the fascinating intersections of wine, food, and culture. She has a particular fondness for pairing wines with delicious fall recipes, making her a go-to source for seasonal culinary inspiration. Whether discussing the nuances of apple wine versus hard cider or sharing her favourite spooky wine labels, Judith catches audiences with her playful and spirited approach to wine appreciation. As a frequent guest on the "Wine Behind the Scenes" podcast, Judith shares her thoughts and experiences, inviting listeners to join her on a delightful adventure through the rich flavours of fall. Her enthusiasm for wine is infectious, making her a beloved figure in the wine community and a cherished guest for any wine enthusiast looking to deepen their understanding and enjoyment of this timeless beverage. Contact Judith Lewis here:

Website: https://www.decabbit.com/
Website: http://mostlyaboutchocolate.com/
X (New name for "Twitter"): https://twitter.com/judithlewis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mostlyaboutchoc/

Discover the enchanting and slightly spooky world of autumn wines, including unique options like pumpkin and apple wines.
Learn about the quirky history and production methods of pumpkin wine, dating back to colonial times in North America.
Understand the difference between apple wine and hard cider, and explore the sweetness and flavour profiles of each.
Enjoy a fun discussion on Halloween-themed wine labels, featuring creative names like Coffin Ridge, Vampire Vineyards, and Skeleton Malbec.
Get inspired with mouth-watering fall recipe suggestions that pair perfectly with pumpkin and apple wines.
Explore spooky ghost stories related to apple orchards and winemaking traditions, adding a mystical touch to your fall gatherings.

Website: https://www.decabbit.com/
Website: http://mostlyaboutchocolate.com/
X (New name for "Twitter"): https://twitter.com/judithlewis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mostlyaboutchoc/

Previous Episode

How to Make the Consumer Right: Your Wine, Your Rules

Want to have an adventure through the continents and cultures in the world of wine innovation? Join us on this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes as Priscilla Hennekam shares her passion for changing the wine industry and stopping the global decline in wine consumption. From Brazil to Argentina to Australia, her story is one of determination and inspiration. Stay tuned as we discuss the need for inclusivity, engagement, and adaptation in the ever-evolving world of wine. In this episode you will be able to learn about:

How important it is that innovation and change in the wine industry takes place to engage consumers and stop the global decline in wine consumption.
The differences in wine culture and consumer engagement.
The importance of making wine more accessible and inclusive to attract and retain customers.
How a more open-minded and democratic approach in the wine industry can help it adapt to changing consumer behaviours and preferences.
How critical it is for wineries to create and maintain a digital presence to stay relevant and appeal to new generations.

Priscilla Hennekam is a country-hopping, ocean-hopping, and continent-hopping champion of innovation in the world of wine. Originally from northeast Brazil, Priscilla's passion for wine led her to leave Brazil at the age of 22 and pursue studies in Argentina. She then made her way to Australia, where she has been actively involved in the wine industry, particularly in the Barossa Valley. Priscilla's unique story and dedication to following her dreams have shaped her approach to the wine industry, emphasizing the importance of engaging with consumers and adapting to the changing landscape of the wine market. With a focus on innovation, and technology, and bridging the gap between tradition and modernity in the wine industry, Priscilla is a dynamic force driving positive change and inclusivity in the world of wine. Contact Priscilla Hennekam here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priscillahennekam/
Websites: https://hennekamwineart.com/ , https://hennekamwines.com/ and https://hennekamwinesbrazil.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hennekam/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hennekamsommeliere/

Next Episode

How To Make A 180-Degree Turn: Buy A Winery

Imagine going from the stress of corporate life to the tranquillity of owning a winery. Well not quite. Marzia and Bob Murdoch, left their corporate careers in Toronto to pursue their dream of owning a winery in Niagara’s scenic wine country. Their path was far from smooth. Just as they started, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, bringing unexpected challenges. From battling tough weather conditions to learning how to run a winery, Marzia and Bob faced it all. But their passion for winemaking and hospitality transformed both their lives and their business. Tune in to hear how they turned adversity into a thriving winery, producing award-winning wines and creating a vibrant community. This episode is full of inspiration, resilience, and plenty of reasons to raise a glass! In this episode you will be able to:

Discover the inspiring journey of Marzia and Bob Murdoch, who made a bold 180-degree life change by purchasing a winery in Niagara during the challenges of COVID-19.
Learn about the unique challenges they faced, including losing their first crop to winter kill and navigating the complexities of running a winery without prior experience in farming or hospitality.
Understand the three distinct businesses involved in winery operations: farming, winemaking, and sales, and how Marzia and Bob tackled each aspect.
Hear about their innovative strategies for marketing and sales, especially during the pandemic, including building a new website and implementing e-commerce solutions.
Explore the importance of community and networking within the wine industry, and how collaboration with other wineries has been beneficial for their growth.
Gain valuable advice for anyone considering entering the winery business, emphasizing the need for hard work, dedication, and a realistic understanding of the industry.

Marzia and Bob Murdoch are the dynamic duo behind 180 Wines, a boutique winery located in the picturesque Jordan Station of Niagara, Ontario. After spending over 30 years in corporate careers in Toronto, they made a bold decision to pivot their lives and embrace the world of winemaking just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. With no prior experience in farming or hospitality, they faced numerous challenges, including losing their first crop to winter kill. However, their determination and passion for their new venture have transformed their lives for the better. At 180 Wines, Marzia and Bob focus on quality over quantity, producing approximately 2,500 cases of wine each year. Their commitment to craftsmanship is evident in their award-winning wines, including their 2020 Meritage and 2020 Gamay Noirs, which received accolades at the prestigious Decanter Awards in the UK. The couple has also integrated their family into the business, with their two daughters contributing to various aspects of winery operations, from marketing to staffing. Marzia and Bob are not just winemakers; they are also dedicated community members who actively engage with other local wineries and participate in events that promote the Niagara region. Their winery features a charming bistro and event space, offering a unique culinary experience that complements their wines. With a love for entertaining and a commitment to creating memorable experiences for their guests, Marzia and Bob invite you to join them at 180 Wines for a taste of their passion and dedication to the art of winemaking. Contact Marzia and Bob Murdoch here: