Best Laurel Simmons Podcasts (2025)

1
Vines and Wines: How to Thrive in Tough Times 30:10

11d ago30:10

30:10

What happens when climate change meets centuries-old winemaking practices? In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, I catch up with Konstantina Goula, who’s now co-managing her family’s organic winery in northern Greece. Since her last appearance, the vineyard has faced extreme weather, a 50% crop loss, and major change. From automated watering s…

1
Revealing the Secrets inside a Winemaker's Home and Heart 28:49

25d ago28:49

28:49

Do you love wine, food, and travel? Then you’re going to love this episode! I’m excited to welcome Sue-Ann Staff to Wine Behind the Scenes. She is a seventh-generation farmer and fifth-generation grape grower in the Niagara Peninsula. Sue-Ann loves making Icewine and other wines, and she has some incredible stories to share. We talk about her journ…

1
Italy and Utah: How to Thrive in Unique Wine Worlds 35:06

1M ago35:06

35:06

Today, we journey across the world with Stephanie Cuadra, a woman whose path to wine is as bold and layered as the wines she now produces. Once a political journalist covering Hugo Chavez in Venezuela, Stephanie found herself unexpectedly in the world of Chianti, managing communications for a top winery. Now, she's a wine importer and producer in I…

1
Pouring It Out: Tea and Wine Secrets Revealed 30:27

2M ago30:27

30:27

Welcome to another episode of Wine Behind the Scenes! Today, with renowned tea expert Nicole Wilson, we step beyond the vineyard and into a world where common tea and wine secrets are revealed. Tea and wine share more in common than you might think. Both are shaped by terroir, tradition, and time. Nicole, a passionate tea educator and writer with o…

1
Wine and Wanderlust: From Croatia to New Zealand with Love 29:48

2M ago29:48

29:48

From surviving war-torn Croatia to crafting premium Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand, Eva Pemper's winemaking journey is a testament to resilience and passion. But here's the unexpected twist: despite facing economic struggles, she's now building an international wine brand while honoring her family's winemaking legacy. Want to know how she's making …

1
From Dark to White: How to Master Chocolate and Wine Pairing 29:24

3M ago29:24

29:24

Have you ever wondered why some chocolate and wine combinations leave you craving more, while others fall flat? In this episode, Judith Lewis shares her wealth of knowledge, revealing the secrets behind selecting the perfect wine to complement your favourite chocolate. From the nuances of high-quality chocolate to the surprising pairings that eleva…

1
Sip & Seduce: The Secrets of Wine and Romance 27:33

3M ago27:33

27:33

Today, we’re exploring the captivating connection between wine and romance with Amy Riley, a leading expert in aphrodisiac foods and a passionate wine lover. From ancient myths to modern romantic dinners, wine has always played a key role in seduction. Amy shares her fascinating journey from selling wine in Sonoma County to becoming an authority on…

1
Banking on Wine: Inside Atlanta's Unique and Fun Wine Lounge 30:41

4M ago30:41

30:41

Step into the world of wine, hospitality, and connection! In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, I’m joined by Damon Raque, the visionary behind Atlanta’s Bottle Bank, a space that’s far more than wine storage. It’s where wine lovers come together to taste, learn, and connect in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. From a successful corporate career i…

1
From Childhood Sips to the Great Canadian Wine Challenge 27:46

4M ago27:46

27:46

Today, I had the privilege of hosting Linda Bramble, a celebrated wine expert and educator with a story as rich as the finest vintage. From her Italian roots to her career as a sommelier and international wine judge, Linda shares the secrets of wine tasting, the power of memory, and the fascinating subjectivity of judging wines. Stay tuned until th…

1
How to Wine & Dine through the 12 Days of Christmas 30:03

5M ago30:03

30:03

The holiday season is in full swing, with the cozy glow of crackling fires and the sparkle of festive lights all around. In this enchanting episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, I teamed up with wine expert Judith Lewis to bring the classic carol "The Twelve Days of Christmas" to life—one sip at a time! From elegant bubbles to rich reds, this episode …

1
How to Transform 3,600 Bottles of Wine into Success 36:40

5M ago36:40

36:40

From the vineyards of France and Italy to the vibrant streets of Seattle, today's episode of Wine Behind the Scenes takes you on a remarkable adventure with Marilee Bramhall, the visionary founder of Iola Wines. With a mission to champion women-led wineries, Marilee’s story is one of resilience and innovation, especially when COVID-19 hit, leaving …

1
Wine Tourism Your Way: Hidden Gems and Global Adventures 29:55

6M ago29:55

29:55

Get ready to uncork a world of adventure on Wine Behind the Scenes! Join Laurel Simmons as she sits down with travel broker Samantha Schultz, whose passion for wine and exploration is truly boundless. Travel through the hidden wine gems of Eastern Europe, from Serbia to Armenia—unexplored treasures waiting to be discovered! Samantha shares her secr…

1
How To Make A 180-Degree Turn: Buy A Winery 28:16

6M ago28:16

28:16

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 cha…

1
Eerily Delicious: How to Pick Wine for a Spooky Time 30:35

6M ago30:35

30:35

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 R…

1
How to Make the Consumer Right: Your Wine, Your Rules 30:14

7M ago30:14

30:14

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 ins…

1
Destination Dublin: How to Combine Wanderlust, Wonder, and Wine 29:56

7M ago29:56

29:56

What if I told you that beyond the pints of stout lies a hidden gem in Dublin - a burgeoning wine mecca waiting to be explored? Join us on this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes as we uncork the fascinating story of Lucia Costa, a wine enthusiast who started on a circuitous route from Portugal to Dublin. Lucia went from working in finance to managi…

1
Bordeaux Dreaming: How to Revive a Winery 29:26

8M ago29:26

29:26

From buying a vineyard in liquidation to transforming it into a sustainable and award-winning estate, Caro Feely's story is extraordinary. Join us on this episode of Wine Beyond the Scenes as Caro shares her amazing story of passion, perseverance, and the magic of organic winemaking in the heart of France. Stay tuned to discover the hidden gems of …

1
An Unusual Blend: Insights from the Wine Economist 30:44

8M ago30:44

30:44

Want to find out how one of the world's leading wine economists got his start in wine economics over 40 years ago during a budget vacation in Napa Valley? Discover the amazing adventure he had and explore the fascinating and surprisingly fun world of wine economics here at Wine Behind the Scenes, where wine, life, and fun intersect. In this episode…

1
Breaking Tradition: Surprising Low-Alcohol Wine Trends You Need to Know 30:29

9M ago30:29

30:29

There's a new wind blowing in the world of wine, and my guest today, Irem Eren, takes us on an adventure into the realm of no-alcohol and low-alcohol wines. In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, we discuss the innovative trends reshaping the traditional wine market. Irem shares her expertise and insights on this evolving landscape. Join us as …

1
Adventures In Croatia: Unveiling Croatia And Its Wine Secrets 27:49

9M ago27:49

27:49

In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, join me as we take a virtual look into the hidden gems of Croatian wine culture with the knowledgeable Katherine (Kit) Pepper. From the unique terroir to the diverse history, Kit paints a vivid picture of Croatia's wine landscape, the tantalizing flavors of local cuisine, and the rich cultural tapestry and…

1
From Germany to Pennsylvania: How to Create a Wine-making Adventure 27:55

10M ago27:55

27:55

Join us as we dive into the captivating story of Nadia Hetzel, a winemaker with a rich tapestry of experiences from Germany to the United States. From her beginnings as she studied winemaking in Germany to her position as winemaker at Grovedale Winery in Pennsylvania, Nadia's narrative is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the artistry of wi…

1
Raising the Bar: From Sacramento Busboy to Wine Expert 27:27

10M ago27:27

27:27

Are you ready to see a world where passion for wine meets the art of storytelling? In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Anthony Velasquez takes us on an adventure through his life's twists and turns, from California to New York via Korea, all intertwined with his love for wine. Discover how chance encounters and unexpected opportunities led A…

1
How to Manage a Crown, Grapes, and a PhD: A Life in Wine 31:56

11M ago31:56

31:56

Get ready for an adventure as we travel through the world of grapes with Debbie Inglis! From being crowned Ontario's Grape King to spearheading research at Brock University, Debbie's passion and expertise in viticulture are unmatched. Her energy and dedication to the wine industry will inspire you. In this episode, you will be able to: Hear about h…

1
Wine is Calling: How to Leave Corporate Life Behind 26:31

11M ago26:31

26:31

Join me as I chat with Taylor Emerson, owner of Black Bank Hill Winery, as he shares his story of adventure from wine lover to winery owner, exploring his motivations, challenges, and unique winemaking approach. Grab a glass and immerse yourself in the world of wine with Taylor. Let's uncork the adventure together. In this episode, you'll be able t…

1
My Podcasting Journey: Friends, Wine and Fun Around the World 28:01

12M ago28:01

28:01

Are you ready to hear what really goes on behind the scenes of your favourite podcasts? Discover the surprising truths and unexpected lessons of podcasting. This is my 50th episode and I asked Judith Lewis, a long-time supporter, a frequent guest and my effervescent wing man when it comes to discussing wonky wine terms, to interview me. In this epi…

1
From Sommelier to Professor: How to Nurture People & Wine 37:31

12M ago37:31

37:31

Are you prepared for a journey with Peter Rod, a sommelier-turned-professor, as we uncork the enchantment of the wine world? Join us on Wine Behind the Scenes as we explore Peter's remarkable career—from his beginning in the Ottawa Valley to managing extraordinary wine programs. Discover the ins and outs of creating memorable dining and wining expe…

1
Bubble Trouble: Demystifying the World of Sparkling Wine with Lieven DeGeyndt 31:06

1y ago31:06

31:06

Are you ready to unravel the mysteries of sparkling wine and Champagne? Join us on a captivating journey as we delve into the world of bubbles with Lieven DeGeyndt, a Master of Champagne. Discover sparkling wine's fascinating history, unique pairings, and hidden gems. From the secrets of Champagne production to the art of food pairing, this Wine Be…

1
From Wine Server to PhD: Massive Leaps in Wine 31:14

1y ago31:14

31:14

Your favourite wine enthusiast's journey from pouring tips into wine purchases to earning a PhD isn't what you'd expect from a typical wine bar server. The surprising twists and turns in Jennifer Kelly's wine-making career will leave you eager to learn more about the untold possibilities in the wine industry. I really love attending conferences wit…

1
Uncovering the Hidden World of Wine Spies with Agent Cru 42:02

1y ago42:02

42:02

Get ready for a peek behind the scenes of how one company offers a different wine every single day of the year to its customers. Join me as I chat with Agent Cru from Wine Spies, one of the masterminds behind Wine Spies' unique daily wine offerings. Wine Spies stands as a trailblazer in the wine industry, boasting over 16 years of innovation and ex…

1
Caught in the Vines: Being a Serial Winemaker 29:16

1y ago29:16

29:16

Explore the secrets behind the art of winemaking and the dedication it requires to turn grapes into liquid gold. Join us as we unravel the stories and struggles of starting a new winery with Ron Giesbrecht, a true connoisseur of the vine. In this episode, you'll be able to: Learn about Ron's journey from winemaker to professor to starting a new win…

1
From Corporate to Cabernet: One Woman's Journey into Wine, Art, and Reinvention 24:33

1y ago24:33

24:33

What happens when a New York City resident packs it in and moves to sunny Tampa, Florida? This journey from the bustling city to a new life in sunny Florida led to an unexpected wine, art, and self-publishing adventure. And it all started with a passion for creating memorable experiences through wine and art. Joanna Barbolla is an accomplished wine…

1
Valentine's Day: the odd, the unexpected and the different 28:11

1y ago28:11

28:11

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of global Valentine's Day traditions, where love, wine, and culture intertwine unexpectedly. Join us as we uncover the surprising twist that adds a delightful flavour to this cherished celebration, leaving you with wonder and anticipation. Are you ready to embark on a journey that will captivate your heart a…

1
Wine Safari: Eat and drink in Chile! 27:29

1+ y ago27:29

27:29

Join us on a journey through the rich flavours of Chilean cuisine, from traditional barbecue to fresh seafood. As our expert guide, Fernando Diez, shares mouth-watering pairings of food and wine, you'll be left wondering what unexpected twist awaits in this culinary adventure. It's always about the people, especially if you're comfortable getting t…

1
At the Forefront: Wine Country Women 34:04

1+ y ago34:04

34:04

Embark on a captivating journey of wine discovery with Michelle Mandro, whose passion for wine took an unexpected turn. From a casual enthusiast to a dedicated advocate for women in the industry, her story is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and education. Join us as we unravel the twists and turns of Michelle's enthralling jou…

1
Wine Adventures - Here, There and Everywhere! 25:13

1+ y ago25:13

25:13

Join my guest, Judith Lewis, and me in the latest Wine Behind the Scenes podcast episode as we discuss our upcoming travel plans to diverse wine regions worldwide. From the birthplace of wine in Georgia to the stunning landscapes of Chile and Argentina, we're sharing our exciting wine travel bucket list for the upcoming year. When you go to the cou…

1
Antonia Mantonakis: Insider Insights from The Wine Psychologist 33:02

1+ y ago33:02

33:02

Discover the secret behind creating a perception of rarity in the wine industry. Join us as "the wine psychologist" Antonia Mantonakis reveals the psychological tricks and marketing strategies that will leave your audience thirsting for more. But beware, the path to success may be more complex than it seems... Consumers' expectations and their inte…

1
A Winemaker Who Loves to Create Culinary Magic (and Great Wine) 27:55

1+ y ago27:55

27:55

If you're feeling frustrated and disappointed with lackluster vegetarian and vegan dishes that fail to excite your taste buds, then you are not alone! Despite your best efforts to experiment with different ingredients and recipes, you may find that the flavors are falling flat and leaving you unsatisfied. Instead of achieving the result of enhancin…

1
Judgement Days: The All Canadian Wine Championships with Bev and John Carnahan 28:14

1+ y ago28:14

28:14

Canada's wine industry has been steadily gaining recognition globally for producing high-quality wines that capture the essence of the country's unique terroir. The All Canadian Wine Championships, spearheaded by wine enthusiasts Bev and John Carnahan, play a pivotal role in showcasing the diversity and excellence of Canadian winemaking. This episo…

1
Upside Down and Inside Out: Wine and Food Pairings Re-imagined! 28:33

1+ y ago28:33

28:33

Nothing could be more monotonous than sticking to the same flavours and combinations, meal after meal. Keeping your palate interested and excited through varying wine and food pairings can lead to a much more enjoyable experience. That’s where experimentation and personal preferences play a significant role. Exploring new territory and challenging …

1
From Numbers to Vineyard Bliss: A Finance Pro's Journey into Winemaking 29:02

1+ y ago29:02

29:02

Breaking away from the corporate world to pursue a passion is a bold move that requires a leap of faith. It involves cultivating your interests and leveraging them into a sustainable income. In this case, we're talking about transitioning from a comfortable job in finance into the exciting and hands-on world of winemaking. My guest for this week, B…

1
From Italy to Ontario: Diving into the World of Winemaking with Ugo Crecco 30:11

1+ y ago30:11

30:11

Ontario boasts a diverse climate that allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of grapes, from cool-climate grapes like Riesling and Chardonnay to hearty reds like Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The province's unique terroir and microclimates allow winemakers to create distinctive and elegant wines. Despite the promising conditions for winemaking i…

1
For the Love of Australian Wine with Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross 31:47

1+ y ago31:47

31:47

Who doesn't love a good backstory? And when it comes to wines and the people who enjoy it, these tales are often as enchanting as the wines themselves. This world is ripe with fascinating stories of discovery, passion, and growth, like those of our guests Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross, who've journeyed from novices to Master Sommeliers. In this epis…

1
Tanya Avramova: Wine in her blood 35:39

1+ y ago35:39

35:39

Bulgaria, a land of rich cultural history and breathtaking landscapes, holds a treasure cultivated for centuries: its winemaking heritage. Nestled between the Balkan Mountains and the Black Sea, Bulgaria boasts a long and storied tradition of producing exquisite wines. Rediscover the forgotten flavours of Bulgaria's winemaking history as Tanya Avra…

1
Unlocking the secrets of wine with Annemarie Morse 24:52

1+ y ago24:52

24:52

Beyond being a beverage, wine is an experience that encompasses history, culture, and flavours. For wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs, exploring the world of wine is a lifelong pursuit. In the second part of our podcast episode, we continue our conversation with Annemarie Morse, a seasoned sommelier, as she emphasizes the significance of tasting di…

1
From Grapes to Glass: The Challenges and Rewards of Making Wine 29:38

1+ y ago29:38

29:38

Winemaking is an art that intertwines science, nature, and craftsmanship. While wine enthusiasts savour the final product, few realize the myriad challenges winemakers face throughout the process. This week's episode explores winemakers' challenges, focusing on the expertise and experiences of renowned winemaker Mitchell McCurdy. His extensive know…

1
Taste Wine and Expand Your World - Part 1 27:52

2y ago27:52

27:52

Despite implementing traditional vineyard practices and adapting winemaking techniques, shifting climate patterns continue to challenge the stability of wine regions. Instead of the desired result of a reliable and consistent wine industry, wine enthusiasts are experiencing the unpredictability of climate change, leading to uncertainty and disappoi…

1
Travel and wine - a match made in Hungary! With Csilla Janosi 26:43

2y ago26:43

26:43

Are you someone who loves wine and would like to discover the world of Hungarian wine? Then join us as Csilla Janosi reveals her passion for making wine and dedication to showing wine travellers how much there is to learn and love about wine and tourism in Hungary. Hungary has a centuries-old wine-making tradition and now, in the modern era, has 22…

1
Mari Robinson: From Dom Perignon to Philanthropy 29:38

2y ago29:38

29:38

Mari's first sip of Dom Perignon ignited a passion for wines that has taken her to incredible places around the globe. Despite her busy job as a director at the University of Texas in the health sector and her other leadership positions, she stays devoted to volunteering at the Wine and Food Foundation to provide support and assistance to people in…

1
Jessica Goncalves: wine, ocean, and mountains 27:30

2y ago27:30

27:30

If you're looking for an incredible spot to add to your wine tasting itinerary, this gorgeous island is absolutely one to consider. Plus, with a conversational wine expert tour guide to aid you in selecting the ideal wine to complement your culinary journey, you can't go wrong. Let’s join Jessica now in exploring the picturesque little island where…

1
Wanky wine terms must die! 28:31

2y ago28:31

28:31

Wine has a unique way of bringing people together and creating lasting memories, but it can also be intimidating, especially when it comes to deciphering the often cryptic language used to describe the different types of wines. The wine world is full of insider terms that can make understanding the nuances of a bottle of wine feel like an impossibl…

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Laurel Simmons Podcasts

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