We wrap up our longest and most fun conversation yet. From creating his vibrant label artwork to launching his new cookbook Party Like a Rock Star , Paul shares how he keeps reinventing himself — one pour and one riff at a time. Highlights: The story behind Paul’s Party Like a Rock Star cookbook and how it’s redefining entertaining How he designs his own labels — from watercolor guitars to embossed details A generous listener offer: 20% off all wines with code- "5 minute" - paulcullenwines.com I...
Nov 27, 2025•5 min•Ep. 264
From Stage to Cellar — Former Bad Company bassist Paul Cullen has built a new career that blends his musical past with his love for culinary art and winemaking. The Lineup — Paul walks us through his collection: Roadie Prosecco – the spark that starts the show Lambrusco – 100 years of family tradition Arneis – “the little rascal” of Italian whites Rock & Rosé – bold, Nebbiolo-based and ready to rock Barbera d’Asti and Rock & Rosso – deep reds with attitude Moscato d’Asti – a sweet encore...
Nov 25, 2025•6 min•Ep. 263
What happens when a rock star trades tour buses for travel cruises? Paul Cullen — once the bassist for Bad Company — has reinvented his encore. He’s the heart behind immersive food and wine journeys where guests sip, taste, and sing their way across Europe and beyond. How it all began — from in-home dining to international group tours Music meets travel — the rhythm of Tuscany , Sicily , and Cuba The experience — cooking, performing, and connecting with guests New adventures ahead — the upcoming...
Nov 21, 2025•5 min•Ep. 262
Before Paul Cullen was pairing fine wine with fine dining, he was rocking stadiums with one of the biggest bands of the ’90s — Bad Company . Paul to relives his favorite moments on tour — from getting the call to audition, to playing for 16,000 hometown fans in Buffalo, to the surreal feeling of seeing “local boy makes good” headlines in the paper. Paul also opens up about his deep love of music, sharing the bass players who inspired him most — from Jaco Pastorius to Geddy Lee — and the joy of p...
Nov 18, 2025•5 min•Ep. 261
Paul Cullen takes us behind the music — and into his heart. Paul explains how he co-founded Paul Kares , a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that funds scholarships, culinary training, and music opportunities for aspiring young artists. Paul recounts the unexpected phone call that took him from playing local gigs in Florida to joining Bad Company — complete with pint-fueled auditions, last-minute passports, and MTV-era fame. Highlights: The mission and impact of Paul Kares Inc. Annual Concert for the Kids and...
Nov 14, 2025•6 min•Ep. 260
Paul Cullen’s story is a master blend of rock and vino. Once the bassist for Bad Company , Paul now tours the country as a private chef and winemaker whose “Culinary Concerts” bring a five-star experience right into your kitchen. He arrives with his partner Nina, a van full of ingredients and Lambrusco, and a set list that mixes classic hits with his own originals. What to expect at a Cullen event: Antipasti & charcuterie with up to 15 bites to start. Seasonal soup or salad , handmade entrée...
Nov 11, 2025•5 min•Ep. 258
Paul’s approach to winemaking: choosing standout wines from trusted producers His latest release: Rockin’ Rosso (Nebbiolo blend) Listener review of Paul Cullen Roero Arneis from the Talafiero Cullen Art Series Kris VoiceMail Wine Review How the Private Chef Experience began “by accident” after a few dinner parties Cooking on-site for clients across the U.S. — and even in Costa Rica and Aspen The hands-on process: Paul and assistant Nina Carl prepare every meal personally What guests can expect: ...
Nov 06, 2025•5 min•Ep. 257
2 Rounds of trivia Mix of multiple choice & true/false Based on the Erica – A Story About Pizza interview Topics Covered: Erica’s family pizzeria origins Marketing and viral TikTok success Favorite pizza toppings & wine pairings Her children’s book and legacy values ️Learn more: astoryaboutpizza.com @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Minute Podcast Network: Wine Podcast Music Podcast Travel Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information a...
Nov 05, 2025•4 min
How a casual chat at a restaurant led to a wine importing career. Meeting Italian producers and learning their stories firsthand. Designing a private label with his guitar on the bottle. The surprising speed of getting an import license—just 10 days! Launching with Arneis and Barbera d’Asti. A hint of a bigger reveal coming in a future episode Paul Cullen Wines: PaulCullenWines.com thebestwinepodcast@gmail.com @thebestwinepod Produced by The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast Network @thebestwinepod Dis...
Nov 04, 2025•5 min•Ep. 239
This Halloween, Rusty Cellars and Sour Grapes are stirring up more than just wine! In this special Hallowine episode, they deliver their signature blend of humor and wisdom — reminding listeners to stay safe while keeping their glasses full. From trick-or-treat safety and party etiquette to a few haunted mishaps involving spilled Chianti, Rusty and Sour share ghostly giggles and “spirited” advice for a safe night of fun. The dangers of “haunted driving” and broomsticks with headlights A classy t...
Oct 31, 2025•3 min•Ep. 259
The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast , Travel Podcast , and Music Podcast , each show brings unforgettable guests, rich storytelling, and expert insights… all in under five minutes. The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast – Every pour tells a story. ️ The Best 5 Minute Travel Podcast – Your boarding pass to the world, no luggage required. The Best 5 Minute Music Podcast – The soundcheck before the spotlight. @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Minute Podcast Network: Wine Podcast Music Podcast Travel...
Oct 29, 2025•48 sec
From Middleburg, VA’s horse country to the Governor’s Cup: Cana Vineyards winemaker Melanie shares her path from physical therapy to wine, why Virginia’s “Goldilocks” climate is tricky, and how Cana built a serious rosé program (plus Albariño!). @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Minute Podcast Network: Wine Podcast Music Podcast Travel Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising....
Oct 29, 2025•19 min•Ep. 256
Paul Cullen’s journey from dry cleaning to dive bars to stadiums How he pivoted from music to launching Paul Cullen Wines The iconic voicemail exchange that started it all Why pairing music and food is Paul’s true calling A tribute to Paul’s parents—and the emotional moment his father saw him perform live Musical influences: Jaco Pastorius, Stanley Clarke, Geddy Lee How Paul turned his love for hospitality into a lifestyle brand: travel, wine, and private dinners Learn more about Paul at paulcul...
Oct 28, 2025•6 min•Ep. 238
Erica D’Arcangelo – Author of A Story About Pizza and My Big Loud Italian Christmas The true story behind A Story About Pizza — how her grandfather’s dream became a 65-year family tradition. Turning burnout into creativity: how Erica used marketing and storytelling to quadruple the family business. From TikTok to tradition — how a viral video brought generations together. Secrets to the perfect pizza dough and why simple ingredients make the best meals. The art of pairing Lambrusco Frizzante and...
Oct 24, 2025•23 min•Ep. 254
Haunted vineyard cold-open with playful ghost banter Hallowine party pairings: Zinfandel + “bloody” meatballs Cabernet + roasted pumpkin seeds Cauldron sangria centerpiece (red wine, orange & apple “ghost” slices) Glow-in-the-dark label trick turns your cellar into a paranormal hunt Sour Grapes’ “adult trick-or-treat” porch bit—mini wine bottles for grown-ups Sign-off: “Happy Hallowine” from Rusty & Sour @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Minute Podcast Network: Wine Podcast M...
Oct 22, 2025•5 min•Ep. 255
Guest: Erica D’Arcangelo — Author of A Story About Pizza and My Big Loud Italian Christmas Topics Covered: The origins of A Story About Pizza and its connection to her family’s 65-year-old pizzeria Secrets to light, airy, perfectly crispy pizza dough Why simplicity — and family — make the best recipes Italian wines that pair perfectly with pizza, from Montepulciano d’Abruzzo to Lambrusco Frizzante How family heritage inspires creativity, loyalty, and great food Quote to Remember: Pizza fills the...
Oct 21, 2025•5 min•Ep. 253
Guest: Erica D’Arcangelo — Author of A Story About Pizza and My Big Loud Italian Christmas Topic: The perfect pairing of Italian pizza traditions and heartfelt family gatherings Key Moments: The secret to light, airy, crispy pizza dough Why simplicity makes the best sauce The magic of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo and Lambrusco Frizzante How family, food, and faith shape Italian culture Quote to Remember : “Pizza fills the plate, wine fills the glass, and together they fill the soul.” Perfect Pairing:...
Oct 17, 2025•5 min•Ep. 252
Guest: Erica D’Arcangelo, Bestselling Author of A Story About Pizza and My Big Loud Italian Christmas Topic: How Italian heritage, tradition, and storytelling blend together in food, wine, and family Highlights: How A Story About Pizza became an Amazon bestseller The heart behind My Big Loud Italian Christmas The joy and “noise” of growing up Italian Why family loyalty and good food never go out of style Pair it with: A glass of Chianti or Montepulciano, preferably around a loud dinner table Pro...
Oct 14, 2025•5 min•Ep. 251
Erica, creator of A Story About Pizza . Together they explore the heritage and comfort behind two timeless staples — pizza and wine. Erica shares how family recipes, ovens, and traditions shaped her passion for pizza, while Forrest highlights the ways wine completes the experience and elevates everyday meals into lasting memories. From funny family moments to practical pairing insights, this episode celebrates the simple joys of food, storytelling, and gathering around the table. @thebestwinepod...
Oct 07, 2025•5 min•Ep. 250
Rusty Sellers and Sour Grapes to bust three of the most common wine myths: Wine Legs Mean Quality The truth: Legs reflect alcohol and sugar content, not flavor or complexity. Sour’s take: “The only legs I trust are the ones that walk me out of a bad blind date.” Older Wine is Always Better Reality: Only a small fraction of wines age well. Most are meant to be enjoyed young. Sour’s story: That “aged to perfection” bottle? It tasted like wet socks — even his dog Bubbly wouldn’t touch it. Expensive...
Oct 03, 2025•4 min•Ep. 249
🍷 Presented by Bubbly Creek Vineyards Forrest kicks things off with his legendary pizza streak in Seattle. Erica D’Arcangelo, author of A Story About Pizza , joins to share how her grandfather immigrated from Italy, worked in the coal mines, and ultimately fulfilled his dream by opening a family pizzeria in 1960. We explore how pizza and wine elevate each other—from pepperoni with Chianti, to Margherita with Sauvignon Blanc, to Zinfandel with a hearty meat lover’s pie. A heartfelt conversation ...
Sep 30, 2025•6 min•Ep. 248
What you’ll learn in this episode: Why over 90% of wines are designed for drinking within the first couple of years. The small handful of wines (Bordeaux, Barolo, Riesling) that actually reward long-term aging. How bad storage can turn even the best bottle into vinegar. Sour Grapes’ hilarious take on saving a $12 Pinot Grigio for a decade (hint: it ended up as lawnmower cleaner). The debut of Bubbly Creek Vineyard as the official podcast sponsor. @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Min...
Sep 26, 2025•4 min•Ep. 246
What you’ll learn in this episode: The origins of Stephen Cipes’ journey from New York real estate to pioneering organic vineyards in British Columbia. How French grape clones, dry Okanagan climate, and second-bottle fermentation built a foundation for award-winning sparkling wines. Why Summerhill Pyramid Winery constructed a precision pyramid modeled after Giza, and how it influences the “marriage period” of sparkling wine. The philosophy behind biodynamic and organic wine production, and its e...
Sep 23, 2025•18 min•Ep. 247
What’s inside: Price vs. Pleasure: Why expectation can trick your taste buds—and how blind tastings level the field. Affordable All-Stars: How a sub-$20 Tempranillo or $12 Chianti can punch above its weight. Practical Pairing: Don’t waste a $200 Burgundy on pizza night. Match the moment, not the marketing. @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Minute Podcast Network: Wine Podcast Music Podcast Travel Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information ab...
Sep 19, 2025•4 min•Ep. 245
Mead, honey wine, Hidden Legend Winery , Victor Montana , Bitterroot Mountains, wildflower honey, clover honey, mead fermentation, raw honey handling, Mazer Cup International, Montana mead, family-run winery, continuous fermentation, online shipping to 37 states. Quotes : If you break a grape, you can’t stop it from making wine— honey needs a nudge. I buy 12–30,000 pounds of honey at a time—if a tank’s empty, I fill it. Our bottles are so laden with hardware you can barely see them. @thebestwine...
Sep 16, 2025•13 min•Ep. 235
Forrest talks with Lindsey , co-creator of Rimessa Roscioli in Rome, Italy. Lindsey shares her inspiring journey from Detroit to Rome and the origins of Roscioli’s wine tasting space, which began in an underground warehouse with a speakeasy vibe. Lindsey’s leap from Detroit to Rome and her passion for wine The backstory of Rimessa Roscioli and its unique tasting experience How Roscioli connects wine lovers worldwide through wine clubs, QR codes, and video storytelling Innovative sustainability p...
Sep 12, 2025•39 min•Ep. 243
The wine world is evolving. Are you enjoying these trends? White Wines on the Rise – Chenin Blanc and Albariño are stealing the spotlight with crisp, food-friendly versatility. Low & No-Alcohol Wines – Sober-curious drinkers are driving growth, with the category projected to reach $7 billion by 2035. Organic & Sustainable – Gen Z’s eco-focus is fueling growth in biodynamic and solar-powered wineries. Orange Wines – Bold, skin-contact whites from Slovenia and Georgia are capturing attenti...
Sep 09, 2025•3 min•Ep. 242
The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast is honored to receive the 2025 Earworthy Award for Best Short Form Podcast ! In this special episode, Forrest Kelly and Sour Grapes reflect on the recognition, the community of indie podcasters, and the joy of storytelling over wine. From Sour Grapes’ award-winning Chianti spills to mason jar debates, this episode delivers both laughs and heartfelt gratitude. Plus, we thank Frank Racioppi and the Earworthy team for shining a spotlight on authentic indie voices. @th...
Sep 02, 2025•4 min•Ep. 241
Founder/winemaker Onye Ahanotu of Ikenga Wines joins Forrest to unpack the world of palm wine—a millennia-old beverage made from palm sap—and how he’s using a patent-pending, sustainable process to craft a controlled, bottle-ready, Methode ancestrale (pet-nat)–style sparkling palm wine in Berkeley, California. @thebestwinepod Discover More from The Best 5 Minute Podcast Network: Wine Podcast Music Podcast Travel Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for informatio...
Aug 22, 2025•20 min•Ep. 240
Guest: Stacy Lee, host of Dark Hearts , a podcast about true crime, cults, and mysteries Story Highlight: In 2005, Mark Anderson deliberately set fire to Wines Central, destroying over $250M in rare wines. Anderson had been embezzling wine from the facility for years before setting the blaze. One victim said: “It felt like someone burned down my family tree.” Dark Hearts : True crime, cults, and conspiracies—episodes every Monday and Wednesday Platforms: Available on all podcast apps and YouTube...
Aug 20, 2025•4 min•Ep. 236
