Send us a text After years of chasing ghost bottles and lining up at dawn, bourbon lovers are wondering— is the tide finally turning? With Buffalo Trace announcing Eagle Rare 12-Year, and major distilleries finishing billion-dollar expansions, are the dark days of empty shelves and insane secondary prices behind us? In this episode, host Rob Clark digs into the state of the bourbon world—production trends, market shifts, and why you just might find that bottle of Weller, Eagle Rare, or even Blan...
Jun 24, 2025•26 min
Send us a text In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , host Rob Clark takes you on a flavorful journey from his earliest days brewing Folgers in a basic drip machine to becoming a full-blown coffee enthusiast with over a dozen specialty brewers and dialed-in equipment. Discover how curiosity—and a good scale—transformed his daily cup into a ritual rooted in science, precision, and passion. Rob shares how he built his setup with the Fellow Ode Gen 2 for filter coffee, the DF64 fo...
Jun 17, 2025•56 min
Send us a text In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , Rob dives deep into a hot take: You don’t need to chase the latest $90 craft bottle to experience the full spectrum of what bourbon has to offer. From the bold spice of Wild Turkey to the mellow richness of Maker’s Mark, the legacy distilleries—Wild Turkey, Old Forester, Jack Daniel’s, Four Roses, Jim Beam, Heaven Hill, and Maker’s Mark—have been crafting iconic bourbons for generations. Rob breaks down why these historic ho...
Jun 10, 2025•55 min
Send us a text In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , host Rob Clark sits down with Hector Ramirez, the voice behind the popular Instagram account It’s Wine Thirty , to explore why it’s time for casual dining restaurants to stop treating wine as an afterthought. Together, they break down how a well-curated wine list—featuring high-quality bottles that overdeliver on value—can transform the dining experience, boost customer satisfaction, and drive revenue. Whether you’re a resta...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Send us a text In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we head Down Under to explore the rich and varied wine regions of Victoria, Australia. Joining Rob is Michael Lazarou—Instagram’s very own @wines_by_michael—a passionate wine communicator with a deep love for the bottles and stories of his homeland. Together, they break down Victoria’s unique subregions, from the cool-climate elegance of the Yarra Valley to the bold reds of Heathcote. Expect a lively chat on climate influenc...
May 20, 2025•58 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how to start making great cocktails at home without turning your kitchen into a full-blown speakeasy? In this fun and approachable episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders, host Rob Clark is joined by his wife, Sandra, for a laid-back conversation on how to set up your home cocktail bar the smart (and stylish) way. They’ll share essential spirits and mixers to have on hand, tools that actually make a difference, and how much glassware really matters. Plus, they...
May 13, 2025•46 min
Send us a text Is it worth spending more than $20 on a bottle of wine? What do you actually get when you bump your budget up to $40—or even $60? In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , Rob breaks down the value-packed “sweet spot” for buying wine and why this price range often delivers the best bang for your buck. We explore what changes in quality, craftsmanship, and region as you move from budget bottles to premium picks—and where the tipping point for diminishing returns begi...
May 08, 2025•47 min
Send us a text Tired of overpriced appetizers and waiting 45 minutes for a table? Same. In this episode, we dive into the deliciously tempting world of personal chefs — think restaurant-quality meals without putting on pants. From romantic date nights to meal-prepped Mondays, we explore why staying in is the new going out. Spoiler alert: someone else even does the dishes. For this conversation I'm joined by Personal Chef Citlalli Maya, her small business is Fire, Fork and Gather. IG - https://ww...
Apr 22, 2025•42 min
Send us a text Is wine really as picky as people make it out to be? In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we throw out the old rulebook and dive into the delicious, wide-open world of unexpected wine pairings. From spicy street tacos to sushi rolls, fried chicken to donuts, we explore how wine doesn’t just go with everything—it elevates it. Join us as we sip, snack, and challenge the traditional wisdom of wine snobbery. Whether you're a casual drinker or a seasoned sommelier, ...
Apr 15, 2025•52 min
Send us a text Not all donuts are created equal. In this episode, we bite into the sweet, sticky world of fried dough and rank our top 5 donuts—from iconic classics to bold, flavor-forward creations. What makes a donut unforgettable? Texture, glaze, filling… or just pure nostalgia? Tune in as we debate our favorites, share a few surprising facts, and maybe stir up a little sugar-coated controversy. Contact or Follow Rob: www.bottlesandbiteswb.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @bott...
Apr 10, 2025•42 min
Send us a text In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we’re diving into the white wines that have been stealing the spotlight in our glasses. From zippy, mineral-driven favorites to luscious, textured pours, these five bottles are delivering all the right vibes. Whether you’re a die-hard Chardonnay fan or looking to explore something new, we’ve got tasting notes, perfect pairings, and why these wines have us coming back for more. Pour yourself a glass and let’s talk wine! Conta...
Apr 01, 2025•50 min
Send us a text Which breakfast cereal reigns supreme? 🥣 In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we’re diving into the ultimate Top 5 Breakfast Cereals of All Time —ranking everything from childhood favorites to underrated classics. Expect some strong opinions, nostalgic debates, and maybe a few surprises! We’ll cover: 🍯 The best sugary classics vs. wholesome favorites 🥄 Cereal and milk dynamics—does texture matter? 🔥 The most controversial cereals (Looking at you, Raisin Bra...
Mar 25, 2025•43 min
Send us a text The bourbon industry has come a long way from the explosive boom of the 2010s—but where does it stand in 2025? In this episode, we break down the current state of bourbon: Is the hype fading, or is the market simply evolving? With distilleries producing more aged stock than ever, limited releases still commanding attention, and global demand shifting, we explore whether bourbon is still riding high or facing a slowdown. Plus, we'll discuss the impact of craft distilleries, consume...
Mar 05, 2025•49 min
Send us a text What do we really expect when we dine out in America? Dining Expectations in America dives into the evolving standards of service, food quality, ambiance, and cultural influences shaping the way we eat. From the rise of fast-casual to the fine-dining experience, we explore the shifting expectations of diners, the challenges faced by restaurants, and the trends redefining hospitality. Whether you're a foodie, industry professional, or just curious about the state of dining today, t...
Feb 26, 2025•58 min
Send us a text Join us on Bottles & Bites Without Borders as we uncork the magic of two of France’s most celebrated wine regions—Burgundy and the Loire Valley—with Vince from V is for Vino . Vince brings his expertise and passion to the table as we discuss what makes Burgundy’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay so iconic, and why the diverse wines of the Loire Valley deserve a spot in your collection. From terroir and tradition to food pairings that make these wines sing, this episode is a deep dive...
Feb 18, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Send us a text Looking to shake up your wine game this year? In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we’re diving into the top five wines, regions, and countries you need to explore in 2025. From emerging wine powerhouses to underappreciated gems, we’ll break down what’s trending, why these picks deserve a spot in your glass, and what bottles to look out for. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a serious collector, this episode is packed with insights to keep your wine journey fre...
Feb 11, 2025•1 hr 6 min
Send us a text Whiskey dinners promise sophistication and indulgence, but do they actually deliver a great dining experience? In this episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we dive into the reasons why whiskey and multi-course meals often don’t mix. From palate fatigue to overpowering flavors, we break down the science behind why whiskey struggles to complement food in the same way wine or beer can. Plus, we’ll explore creative ways to enjoy whiskey alongside a meal—without overwhelmin...
Feb 04, 2025•26 min
Send us a text In this deliciously informative episode of Bottles & Bites Without Borders , we take a deep dive into the fascinating history of one of the world’s most beloved foods: pizza. We trace its humble beginnings in Naples, Italy, where simple flatbreads were topped with modest ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and basil. But pizza’s story doesn't stop there—it’s a tale of migration, reinvention, and cultural adaptation. Join us as we explore how pizza journeyed across the globe, ev...
Jan 28, 2025•48 min
Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the rich history, distinctive characteristics, and global appeal of Sangiovese, the grape behind some of Italy’s most celebrated wines, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. From its ancient roots in Tuscany to its modern-day cultivation around the world, we explore what makes Sangiovese so special. Join us as we sip, swirl, and savor the stories of this versatile grape, offering tips on how to pair it with food ...
Jan 15, 2025•26 min
Send us a text Discover the vibrant world of Italian white wines in Vino Bianco: Exploring the White Wines of Italy . From the crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio of Veneto to the aromatic Vermentino of Sardinia, each episode delves into the history, regions, and winemaking traditions behind Italy's most celebrated white wines. Join us on a flavorful journey through vineyards, varietals, and vintages, as we uncover the secrets of Italian winemaking and share tips for pairing these exquisite wines ...
Jan 09, 2025•33 min
Send us a text Food, Wine & Whiskey is going Italian. We are re-branding the show, please give a listen to get the details. Contact or Follow Rob: www.italianbottlesbites.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @italian_bottles_bites on IG Join the Italian Bottles & Bites FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/533352930766813 #food #whiskey #bourbon #wine #homecook #cook #BBQ #foodie #Italy #barolo #cabernet Sauvignon #france #italy #spain #napa #scotch #pizza #coffee Support the...
Dec 28, 2024•5 min
Send us a text Join me as Kevin Day (Editor-in-Chief) from openingabottle.com magazine, takes us through his journey of selecting the best wines of 2024 to build the ultimate collection. In this podcast, He'll share the stories behind each bottle, why they made the cut, and what makes them stand out from the crowd. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, this episode offers expert tips, tasting notes, and a personal touch on curating a diverse and memorab...
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Send us a text In this episode, we take you on a sensory journey through five of our favorite grapes, wines, and the regions that bring them to life. From the reds of Piedmont to the crisp whites of Chablis, we’ll explore the unique characteristics of each grape variety and how the terroir influences the final product. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just starting your wine adventure, join us as we share our top picks and the stories behind each region and bottle we’re currently enjoying...
Dec 12, 2024•52 min
Send us a text On this episode we discuss the Wine Spectator list of Top 100 wines of 2024. What's the criteria for making the list, is it pay for play, how should the avg consumer use this list, and finally how we view and use the list. Contact or Follow Rob: www.foodwinewhiskey.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @food_wine_whiskey on IG Join the Food, Wine, and Whiskey FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/533352930766813 #food #whiskey #bourbon #wine #homecook #cook #BBQ #foodie...
Dec 06, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Send us a text John Fodera is back on the show. John has recently returned from a trip to Tuscany, he shares with us some great information on Tuscany, the foods, the people, and of course the wines. Contact or Follow Rob: www.foodwinewhiskey.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @food_wine_whiskey on IG Join the Food, Wine, and Whiskey FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/533352930766813 #food #whiskey #bourbon #wine #homecook #cook #BBQ #foodie #Italy #barolo #cabernet Sauvignon #f...
Nov 19, 2024•1 hr 21 min
Send us a text On todays episode I'm joined by The Hungry Hussey, Matthew Hussey. Matthew is a YouTube creator with more than 239K subscribers. His show is on griddle cooking, he covers everything from getting seasoning your griddle, maintaining your griddle, zone cooking and then the fun stuff, cooking on the griddle. We cover all this and more on todays episode. The Hungry Hussey Contact YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thehungryhussey Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stories/kayeskins/...
Nov 12, 2024•57 min
Send us a text Carter is back on the show and we are joined by Todd Grube and Dominic Sung, the owners of the Houston Whiskey Social. We have a conversation about the Houston event, the history, how its grown, opportunities to drink rare whiskeys and the whisky's from around the world that will be pouring at this event. Contact or Follow Rob: www.foodwinewhiskey.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @food_wine_whiskey on IG Join the Food, Wine, and Whiskey FB Group https://www.facebook.c...
Oct 29, 2024•1 hr 27 min
Send us a text On this episode I give my list of 5 bourbons that are under the radar, under appreciated and won't break the bank. I put some thought into this list so there is range from distilleries to price to proof. Follow Rob at www.foodwinewhiskey.com https://www.facebook.com/rob.clark.9277 - Facebook @foodwhiskey - X food_wine_whiskey - IG Please email any comments or show suggestions to [email protected] Support the show...
Oct 21, 2024•44 min
Send us a text On this episode I talk about our approach to navigating the restaurant wine list. What are our approach when it's just me and my wife and what's our approach when it's a group. Contact or Follow Rob: www.foodwinewhiskey.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @food_wine_whiskey on IG Join the Food, Wine, and Whiskey FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/533352930766813 #food #whiskey #bourbon #wine #homecook #cook #BBQ #foodie #Italy #barolo #cabernet Sauvignon #france #i...
Sep 10, 2024•29 min
Send us a text Carter is back on the show. On this episode we go through our list of our Top 10 Wine Countries. Obviously we have a lot of the same countries, but its fun to see where we place them and why. Contact or Follow Rob: www.foodwinewhiskey.com [email protected] @foodwhiskey on X @food_wine_whiskey on IG Join the Food, Wine, and Whiskey FB Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/533352930766813 #food #whiskey #bourbon #wine #homecook #cook #BBQ #foodie #Italy #barolo #cabernet Sauvi...
Sep 03, 2024•47 min
