In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons sits down with Dr. Antonia Mantonakis, also known as The Wine Psychologist, to explore how celebrity culture and subtle psychological triggers shape our wine choices, whether we realize it or not. From wine-tasting experiments with Olympic athletes to the endowment effect (a real thing!) and why we’re more likely to buy something we’ve physically touched, Antonia shares her fascinating research into the subconscious forces behind buying a...
Jul 08, 2025•31 min•Ep. 80
In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons sits down with David Aferiat, founder of Avid Vines, to explore the sparkling world of Champagne and why it’s so much more than just a drink for special occasions. David shares his passion for sourcing organic, artisanal Champagnes, and how Avid Vines came to life. The conversation reveals what sets small-batch Champagne producers apart, why proper shipping and storage are crucial, and how Champagne can and should be incorporated into eve...
Jun 25, 2025•30 min•Ep. 79
In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons sits down with Nick Elliott a Certified Sommelier, classically trained chef, and founder of The Wine Guy. With over 30 years of experience, Nick brings a joyful, unpretentious approach to wine education. From culinary school to leading immersive wine trips around the world, he shares how food, travel, and storytelling shape the way we enjoy wine. Plus, Judith Lewis returns with another round of “Wonky Wine Terms,” diving into the quirky p...
Jun 11, 2025•29 min•Ep. 78
In this special episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, I’m coming to you from the Ontario Craft Wine Conference in Niagara Falls, where I asked several passionate winemakers, directors, and wine lovers to share their favourite wine and food pairings, and the answers were deliciously unexpected. From popcorn with oaked Chardonnay to sparkling rosé with fried chicken sandwiches, this episode is a playful and insightful snapshot of how Ontario wines are showing up in everyday food moments. You’ll hear ...
May 28, 2025•15 min•Ep. 77
In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, I sit down with Juliette Han, a fellow wine lover who isn't afraid to ask the honest questions about choosing wine, especially in high-pressure moments like business dinners or group settings. From decoding wine lists to working with sommeliers, we explore how to approach wine with more confidence and less stress. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to confidently order wine in social and professional settings, even if you’re not an expert Tips for c...
May 14, 2025•33 min•Ep. 76
In this episode, Laurel Simmons interviews Doug Whitty, owner of 13th Street Winery, about the history of the winery, the challenges and rewards of the wine industry in the Niagara region, and the unique elements that make 13th Street Winery a destination. Doug shares insights into the winery's evolution, the importance of embracing change, and the integral role of family and passion in crafting exceptional wines. In this episode, you will learn about: The origins of 13th Street Winery and its e...
Apr 30, 2025•28 min•Ep. 75
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 systems to unforgettable wine boat tours on Kerkini Lake, Konstantina shares how they’re adapting, growing, and turning challenges into opportunities ...
Apr 16, 2025•30 min•Ep. 74
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 journey from growing up on the family farm to becoming one of Niagara’s most passionate advocates for local wine. Sue-Ann doesn’t just make wine, she creat...
Apr 02, 2025•29 min•Ep. 73
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 Italy’s Valle d’Itria, championing rare indigenous grapes and shaking up tradition with her new boxed wine brand, Liquido. In this episode, Stephanie s...
Mar 19, 2025•35 min•Ep. 72
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 over 15 years of experience, takes us on an adventure through the rich flavours, brewing techniques, and cultural significance of tea. She also reveals...
Mar 05, 2025•30 min•Ep. 71
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 waves in the global wine scene? Stay tuned to uncork Eva's remarkable transition and the secrets behind her stellar Sauvignon Blanc. Honestly, when I ...
Feb 19, 2025•30 min•Ep. 70
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 elevate both flavours, Judith will transform the way you indulge in these two beloved treats. But that's not all! Judith also takes us on a journey through...
Feb 05, 2025•29 min•Ep. 69
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 aphrodisiac foods. Together, we uncover the science behind wine's seductive powers, the aromas that spark desire, and tips for crafting the perfect r...
Jan 22, 2025•28 min•Ep. 68
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 in financial services to crafting unforgettable wine experiences, Damon’s inspiring journey is all about celebrating wine, food, and friendship. Discov...
Jan 08, 2025•31 min•Ep. 67
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 the end for a fun twist as Judith Lewis and I reveal today’s quirky wine term. So, pour yourself a glass, sit back, and join us on this flavourful journ...
Dec 25, 2024•28 min•Ep. 66
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 is packed with wine wisdom, culinary creativity, and all the holiday cheer you could wish for. Whether you're planning a dazzling holiday feast or jus...
Dec 11, 2024•30 min•Ep. 65
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 her with 3,600 bottles of wine and no market to sell to. How did she turn this challenge into a thriving success? Join us as we go into Marilee’s pass...
Nov 27, 2024•37 min•Ep. 64
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 secrets to crafting custom wine itineraries, revealing the authentic charm of lesser-known regions versus classic wine destinations. Plus, stay tuned as J...
Nov 13, 2024•30 min•Ep. 63
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 hos...
Oct 30, 2024•28 min•Ep. 62
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 ...
Oct 16, 2024•31 min•Ep. 61
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 b...
Oct 02, 2024•30 min•Ep. 60
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 managing wine shops to harvesting grapes in Germany and making wine in Argentina, to finally finding her passion in Dublin's evolving wine scene. So grab a ...
Sep 18, 2024•30 min•Ep. 59
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 their vineyard, the challenges of climate change, and the surprises that led to the creation of a unique wine experience. In this episode you will be ...
Sep 04, 2024•29 min•Ep. 58
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 you will be able to: Learn how wine consumption reflects economic conditions, with luxury wines holding up better in times of stagnation Learn about ...
Aug 21, 2024•31 min•Ep. 57
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 we unveil the secrets behind de-alcoholized wines, explore the intersection of health and taste, and envision the future of the wine industry. Get rea...
Aug 07, 2024•30 min•Ep. 56
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 experiences that await travellers. Tune in now to uncork the secrets of Croatia's wine world and on to the exploration and discovery. In this episode...
Jul 24, 2024•28 min•Ep. 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 winemaking. Get ready to be transported into the world of vineyards, hybrids, and the intricate dance of flavors as we explore Nadia's remarkable advent...
Jul 10, 2024•28 min•Ep. 54
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 Anthony to a fulfilling career in the wine industry, where he now educates and inspires others. Our fascinating conversation is filled with tales of ha...
Jun 26, 2024•27 min•Ep. 53
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 her journey from being a grape kid to becoming the Director of the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute at Brock University. Understand why ...
Jun 12, 2024•32 min•Ep. 52
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 to learn about: Starting a winery is a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires commitment, intention, and a clear target for winemaking. Tayl...
May 29, 2024•27 min•Ep. 51
