Shows
PairingEpisode 100: The SilmarillionIt's the end of the journey, and the beginning of another. Feels very Tolkien, right? In this 100th, and possibly last, episode of Pairing, Emma and Winston return to Pairing's origins to discuss another of Tolkien's works, The Silmarillion. We reflect on our experience making Pairing and Emma's wine philosophy. We're here for a good time, not a long time, so let's enjoy it. Plus: blending mythologies, committing to an emotional experience, Big Ahab Energy, musicality and wine, #notallchardonnay, and the orc violist fanfiction. Thank you to everyone who made Pairing possible. Find Us Online:2022-08-121h 10PairingEpisode 99: Critical RoleEmma and Winston sit down to discuss their latest and greatest obsession: Critical Role. We wax poetic about the talents of Matt Mercer and the gang's storytelling and voice acting abilities, and Emma pairs wine with the characters of Vox Machina and The Mighty Nein. Featuring: wine-themed tongue twisters, Mollydooker for Mollymauk, collecting dice sets, Rogue Vine Wines, wine by Tool, Dancing Leitz, great character design, and your país should you choose to accept it. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Tw...2022-07-251h 06PairingEpisode 98: Merlin (with Ariela Rotengold)Emma is joined by her dear friend Ariela Rotengold to discuss their favorite adaptation of the Arthurian Legends: the BBC's Merlin. We talk about our deep love for and deep frustration with the show, and our history and relationships to different Arthurian content. Plus: creature lore and mythic traditions, the greatest bromance on television, giving Uther some therapy, great British character actors, justice for Guinevere, Chrètien de Troyes (from Troyes), and John Hurt: the dragon making wine in his cave. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell yo...2022-05-311h 10PairingEpisode 97: Winston's History CornerAt long last, Winston gets to nerd out about history! Winston and Emma chat about their favorite podcasts, historical epics, documentaries, books, and more. The takeaway? We need more diverse voices in the telling of history. Plus: the white guy history nerd starter kit, the myth of sulfites, oral tradition, Kingdom of Heaven, Galadriel's boo, gushing about Gettysburg, Ken Burns' Civil War, control of historical narrative, and Epic Rap Battles of History! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @Pairi...2022-05-011h 16PairingEpisode 96: Witcher Book Club (with Ester Ellis, Brenna Galvin, and Anthony Pinggera)Over the past year+, Emma read The Witcher Book Series with a book club, and they were kind enough to come on Pairing and share their experience of reading these books! Emma, Ester Ellis, Brenna Galvin, and Anthony Pinggera discuss the ups and downs of these books, and why we're all glad that we read them as a book club. We also talk about the Netflix series and the video games from CD ProjektRed, but we focus on the books by Andrzej Sapkowski. Featuring: the Wine of the Witcher, himbo Geralt, the true translation of "Jaskier," our favorite (non-Regis...2022-03-281h 49PairingEpisode 95: The Land of Two Thousand Grapes Part 2: The Red Wines of ItalyEmma and Winston sit down to bring you a long-anticipated sequel: now you get the red wines of Italy! Emma explains some of the major (and minor) red grapes of Italy, and we pair them with the games that we've been playing and nerdy things we've been consuming (namely, God of War, Legend of Vox Machina, and Warhammer). Featuring: paradoxical grapes, sexy chaos gods, Emma's first wine (probably), Winston-splaining, pizza wines, elves getting trashed, and Gork & Mork's Fork: A Goblin Mobster Restaurant. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and...2022-02-251h 01PairingEpisode 94: A Sundered Throne (with Philippa Werner aka Moira Katson)Emma is joined by Philippa Werner (aka Moira Katson) to discuss her upcoming high fantasy novel, A Sundered Throne! Emma and Philippa give a spoiler-free rundown of the novel, by pairing wine with the characters and sharing their dream casts, including William Jackson Harper, Shohreh Agdashloo, and Tom Hardy. Plus: a fantasy Greek empire, Bin Bons, Papa Bear vibes, clairette v. claret, and slightly chaotic interpretation of "good." Content warning: brief discussion of suicide. Want to help fund the audiobook of A Sundered Throne (which Emma will be a narrator for), and get early access...2022-01-231h 13
PairingWolf 359 (with the Cast and Crew of Wolf 359)Merry Christmas, and Happy 4-year Anniversary to the finale of Wolf 359! To celebrate, Pairing Commander Emma Sherr-Ziarko gathered (most) of the cast and crew of the show for a reunion. We reminisce about our favorite memories of making this show, what episodes we loved most, and we discuss what we think our characters would drink. Plus: Noah's slates, Zach Valenti breaking into song, recording at Spaceman, building and living in a character, Hilbert's commercial reads, forgetting episode titles, Horse Wines, predicting the future, Alan's track titles, Gabriel the master synthesizer, How Could Dare You, and, of course, Funzo. 2021-12-252h 22
PairingGilmore Girls (with Brooke Jennett)Emma is joined by Brooke Jennett (Thirteen, Olive Hill) to discuss the beloved and problematic show from our youth, Gilmore Girls. Brooke has some seriously hot takes, and we have some delightful headcanons of these characters being friends with winemakers. Plus: TV writing trends, a Tempranillo Man, Budweiser & Bordeaux, our Beaujolais King, and, mostly, Justice for Lane! Content Warning: discussion of sexual assault, consent, bodily autonomy, homophobia, and fatphobia/body shaming. Make sure to follow Brooke on Twitter and Instagram @oats_mcgoats, and make sure to follow and listen to Thirteen @PodThirteen! Emma...2021-11-181h 22
PairingHallowine Part II (with John-Paul Cirelli)John-Paul Cirelli returns to Pairing for a second edition of our Hallowine series! This time we talk more about the holiday of Halloween itself: the history of the holiday, and our own personal traditions. Plus: haunted wineries, illegal UFO landings in wine country, a pairing for candy corn, Hell-ebrating, "Demon Wine" with Tom Waits, near-death experiences, and wine from a sippy cup. Make sure to buy John-Paul's new collection of short stories, The Feeling a Good Bar Can Give You and Other Stories, check out his blog at Mondo Vulgare, listen to his music on Spotify, The...2021-10-221h 30
PairingThe ExpanseEmma and Winston talk about one of the coolest sci-fi space shows out there: The Expanse! We talk about the sophisticated politics and cool physics of the show, and also make fun of Tom Jane's hair. Plus: writing and winemaking duos, wine that tastes like bacon, a Leviathan tangent, Shohreh Agdashloo's amazing cursing, new wine regions, and Winston's belt story. Emma is now available to book as an acting coach on SkillsHub! Come check it out, and tell your friends! Follow Emma on Twitch to watch her play video games! Find Us Online:2021-10-0857 min
PairingTed LassoGet ready for a feel-good episode about a feel-good show and some feel-good wines: Emma and Winston are talking about Ted Lasso! We talk about what makes this show so uniquely wonderful, and we do some pretty bad English accents. Plus: carbonic maceration, fathers and sons, toxic sports fandoms, wines from around the world, and a new game: is it a Cru of Beaujolais or a Dwarf from The Hobbit? Follow Emma on Twitch to watch her play video games! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and...2021-09-1753 min
PairingEldritch HorrorEmma and Winston discuss their favorite board game, Eldritch Horror. On top of talking about what makes this game so fun, we also talk about H.P. Lovecraft and the genre of Eldritch Horror itself. Plus: alcohol curing insanity, dusty wines, goat-related wine, Cthulhu's drink of choice, Lovecraft Country, and Winston's fanfic. Check out Emma's new Patreon, where she will be posting non-Pairing related content, such as voice acting, sneak peeks, and video game rants! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us...2021-09-0359 min
PairingStar Trek: The Next GenerationEmma and Winston discuss their favorite iteration of the beloved sci-fi franchise, Star Trek: The Next Generation! We discuss how the show deals with representation in both a progressive and problematic way, and Emma gives some Hot Tips on Bordeaux. Plus: wine is a drink for sharing, exploring identity, representation and stereotypes, silly costumes, luxury gay space communism, and Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @PairingPodcast. Also check out our website, www.thepairingpodcast...2021-08-061h 03
PairingMarvel TVEmma and Winston sit down to discuss their hot takes on the three Marvel TV shows thus far: Wandavision, The Falcon and Winter Soldier, and Loki. We discuss using form as a method of storytelling and criticism, and appreciate some of the ambitiousness of these shows. Plus: love for Kathryn Hahn, Daniel Brühl, and Owen Wilson, attacks on Pinot Grigio, Loki's queerness, great acting, political rants, and handsome nerds. Spoilers! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & T...2021-07-2353 min
PairingSupernatural (with Meghan Fitzmartin)Emma is joined by Meghan Fitzmartin to discuss the longest running American Sci-Fi and Fantasy show, Supernatural! Meghan, who was a writer on the show, shares her experience working on Supernatural, and discusses the value of genre television. Emma, meanwhile, shares what wine she thinks Crowley would serve in hell. Plus: meta narratives, deconstructing theology, subverting expectations, actors' effects on their characters, and families (on-screen and off) that don't end in blood. Follow Meghan on Twitter @megfitz89 to see what she's up to, including Batman Urban Legends, Justice Society: World War II, Passenger List, and Red Rhino.2021-07-091h 24
PairingSchitt's Creek (with Emma Cohen)The Emmas are back at it, this time talking about the award-winning, hysterical comedy, Schitt's Creek. We can't keep from laughing ourselves as we discuss the genius of Catherine O'Hara and all the other cast and crew of this show. Plus: Cougar Juice, Zhampagne, a nice little half-half situation, story arcs, character arcs, growth, and Crows. Lots of spoilers in this one! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @PairingPodcast. Also check out our website, www.thepairingpodcast...2021-06-251h 00
PairingBeetlejuice (with Brooke Jennett)Emma is joined by fellow podcaster, actor, and fan of wine Brooke Jennett to talk about Tim Burton's classic, Beetlejuice. We talk both about what makes this film amazing- from Michael Keaton's performance to Geena Davis's smock dress- and what wines the living would drink. Plus: a wine that is "Beetle Juice," young Alec Baldwin, Lambrusco in a can, Emma's favorite Gothic Wine, the interplanetary wine trade, and how to reveal yourself as a pretentious hipster wine snob. Content warning: suicide and suicidal ideation. Make sure to check out Thirteen, a horror anthology podcast that...2021-06-111h 09
PairingComfort Wines Part TwoEmma has a solo episode to reminisce on this past year, how difficult it was, and the comfort content that got her through it. She gives some recommendations of wines that are as reliable as they are inexpensive, and admits she has read some romance novels. Plus: more Mass Effect and Witcher, all the space feelings, French Whites and Italian Reds, new fantasy worlds, and symphonic metal. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @PairingPodcast. Also check out our...2021-05-2843 min
PairingBlack SailsEmma and Winston sit back and have a chat about their recent TV binge: Black Sails. They talk about how the show blends historical figures and events with the characters of Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, and how it ages like a fine wine. Plus: the USS Meritage, Wookie actors, the testosterone accent, dismantling toxic masculinity (kinda), Titus Pullo, and our favorite Himbo. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @PairingPodcast. Also check out our website, www.thepairingpodcast...2021-05-0753 min
PairingKing Kong (with John-Paul Cirelli)John-Paul Cirelli returns to Pairing to tell Emma all about everyone's favorite giant gorilla, King Kong! We talk about all the different adaptations and make some predictions for Kong's future, while Emma improvises some wine pairings. Plus: shipping Kong and Mothra, airport Sauvignon Blanc, iconic imagery and screams, special effects, an original Fairytale, critiquing colonialism, Andy Serkis appreciation, and Big Ahab Energy. Make sure to check out John-Paul's podcast, Celluloid Bastards! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram...2021-04-231h 52
PairingThe West Wing (with Mike Schubert)Mike Schubert, aka Schubes, returns to Pairing to talk about an oddly appropriate show for this moment: The West Wing. Emma and Schubes talk about their favorite characters, and Emma drags them for their choices in drinks. Plus: emails from Bradley Whitford, Mike's on-point cocktail game, making a fancy Fresca cocktail, Mrs. Landingham, signature wedding cocktails, and our love for Allison Janney. Check out Mike's newest project Modern Muckraker, and support the kickstarter at bit.ly/modernmuckraker from now until April 30th! Check out all of his projects at Schub.es Find Us Online: 2021-04-091h 22
PairingSherlock Holmes (with Sara Ghaleb)Emma is joined by local genius Sara Ghaleb (Arden, Historical Hookups) to discuss one of the most iconic figures in modern literature, Sherlock Holmes. We cover everything from Sara's top 5 Holmes stories, to critical literary analysis, to salty takes on TV adaptations, to using wine knowledge to solve a murder. If you're not a fan of Sherlock Holmes before this episode, you will be after. Plus: Sherlock Holmes: successful freelancer, Wicked Women, doing drugs for science, House M.D., Mormon Mafia Cults, and Watson: Equal Opportunity Horn-dog. Content Warning: discussion of racism and drug use. ...2021-04-022h 21
PairingDragon Age (with Wil Williams)Emma continues her journey through BioWare content with Wil Williams, as they discuss the Dragon Age games. We focus on the third game, Inquisition, but we do discuss all three games, our favorite characters, and our least favorite writing choices. We agree that mages are the most fun, and they would also all be wine snobs. Plus: accidentally dirty wines, softies who are a mess of trauma, polyamory, racist writing choices, appreciation for Freddie Prinze Jr., precocious chaos man, and a Consortium of Dads. Content Warning: discussion of anti-black racism and transphobia. Make sure to...2021-03-122h 01
PairingClueIn this episode, Emma and Winston discuss the 1985 zany comedy, Clue! We also discuss the game, and which character we would always play as. Listen to hear us gush over Madeline Kahn, Tim Curry, and the rest of the amazing cast, and Emma explains a bit about Cognac (whether or not it was poisoned). Plus: murder mysteries for children, theatricality, quarantine wine recommendations, recasting the film today, and the most iconic roles of Tim Curry. Content Warning: Brief mention of sexual harassment and assault. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us...2021-02-2655 min
PairingPan's Labyrinth (with Eli Barazza)Emma is joined by Eli Barazza (The Whisperforge) to discuss one of their favorite films, Pan's Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno). Eli brings all sorts of insight and knowledge to the table, while Emma talks a little bit about Spanish history and Spanish wine. They discuss Guillermo del Toro's unique imaginative storytelling and how terrifying Captain Vidal is as a villain. Plus: liminal spaces, appreciation for Doug Jones, magical realism and anti-colonialism, color theory, the Spanish accent, reality and fantasy, and the haunting music. Follow Eli on twitter @EliLizzieLizbet to see all that she's up to! 2021-02-121h 31
PairingMass Effect Part II (with Philippa Werner)Emma and Philippa Werner continue their discussion of the original Mass Effect trilogy, this time delving deeper into some of the larger themes and bigger questions of the trilogy. We discuss the ending(s) and the relationship between organics and synthetics in the game, as well as in the wine world. Plus: our favorite moments, defending Andromeda, the scariest monsters, Emma's mistake in 2, reverence for the voice cast, and Elcor Hamlet. SPOILER WARNING: THERE ARE MANY SPOILERS FOR MASS EFFECT 1, 2, & 3 IN THIS EPISODE. Do not listen if you haven't played and intend to, or haven't played the...2021-01-2952 min
PairingMass Effect Part I (with Philippa Werner)We're back from hiatus, and Emma can't wait to talk about her newest obsession: Mass Effect! She is joined by author Philippa Werner (who writes under the names Moira Katson and Natalie Grey) to discuss this utter masterpiece of a videogame and storytelling. In this first part of our conversation, we discuss our favorite characters, squad members, romances, and more from the original Mass Effect trilogy. Plus: the logistics of Turian Romance, being Team Kaidan, the perfect pairing for Tali, BioWare According to Mom, and a Wine Called Garrus. SPOILER WARNING: THERE ARE MANY SPOILERS FOR MASS E...2021-01-1557 min
PairingBuffy the Vampire Slayer Part TwoEmma and Winston continue their discussion of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. We focus on the last three seasons of the show, which cover some pretty dark themes, but we also talk about the fun. Emma gives her top 5 (ish) episodes, and Winston defends Dawn and rants about the Watcher's Council. Plus: Xander love, plot holes that bother us, wine nomenclature, Vampire Therapy, redemption arcs, toxic masculinity, and Winston's time in a hell dimension. Spoiler warning for all of Buffy. Content warning: discussion of abuse, sexual violence, substance abuse, and suicide. If you are struggling, we...2020-09-251h 11
PairingBuffy the Vampire Slayer Part OneAt long last, Emma and Winston sit down to discuss one of their favorite television shows of all time, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In this first part of our discussion, we talk about our complicated feelings about Angel and Spike, as well as our favorite (and least favorite) villains, seasons, and Winston shares his "Top 5 Episodes." Plus: justice for Charisma Carpenter, Sauvignon Blanc v. Pinot Grigio, disappointing finishes, dream episodes, and our love for the Mayor. Content warning: discussion of abuse, sexual violence, and suicidal thoughts. Find Us Online: If you e...2020-09-1858 min
PairingBirthday Party!It's Emma's birthday, so let's talk about birthdays! Emma and Winston have a birthday chat, and are joined periodically by some of our past guests, John-Paul Cirelli, Michelle Agresti, Emma Cohen, and Sarah Wolfe, to talk about their favorite birthday traditions and experiences. Featuring: "Babanukah," internet scavenger hunts, board games, kicking off Halloween in August, talent shows, tattoos, bowling alleys, the beach, and strategic birthday cake. Want to buy Emma a birthday coffee? Check out her Ko-fi page! Follow John-Paul on twitter @MondoVulgare, and make sure to check out his podcast Celluloid Bastards! ...2020-08-2853 min
PairingStar Wars Episode IX- The Rise of Skywalker (with Danielle Shemaiah)Emma is joined by the marvelous Danielle Shemaiah (The Whisperforge) to discuss the last film in the Skywalker Saga, The Rise of Skywalker. We critique it with love, as we lament what might have been if Carrie Fisher hadn't passed, and if J.J. Abrams were better at ending things. Featuring: our love for Daisey Ridley and Kelly Marie Tran, Karens against Aperol Spritzes, embracing your inner Chardonnay lover, Kylo Ben, representation, too many unnecessary white men, and Danielle's killer wine instincts. Warning: this episode not safe for Reylos. Follow Danielle on Twitter @DtCamJansen and make sure...2020-08-151h 26
PairingStar Wars Episode VIII- The Last JediEmma and Winston discuss one of their all-time favorite Star Wars films, The Last Jedi. They try to play Devil's Advocate and understand why people would not like this movie, but mostly focus on its strengths as the most spiritually challenging of these films. Plus: Rey: unfined & unfiltered, changing opinions and changing palates, sacrifice, corruption, and moral ambiguity, Italian wine (for some reason), funny puppets, and the cruel tutelage of Luke Skywalker. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr...2020-07-311h 02
PairingStar Wars Episode VII- The Force Awakens (with Chad Ellis)Emma is joined by podcasting extraordinaire Chad Ellis to discuss the first film in the most recent of Star Wars trilogies, The Force Awakens. We share our love for this movie, and our stories of first seeing it (Chad's is way cooler). Plus: characters and world-building, Kylo & wine bros, Byronic heroes, sacred texts, appreciation of Adam Driver, the superiority of practical effects, shipping Poe and Finn, and Droids for millennials. Follow Chad on Twitter @ChadManic, and make sure to check out their podcast Station Blue (@StationBluePod), as well as Hit The Bricks (@HitTheBricksPod) and Arden (@ArdenPod). 2020-07-101h 36
PairingAvatar: The Last Airbender"There can be no peace without justice." -Avatar Kyoshi knew what was up, and there's a lot we all can learn from Avatar: The Last Airbender. Winston and Emma discuss what they love from this show, why it's important, and also the problematic cultural appropriation involved in making it. Plus: Zuko & rosé's parallel redemption arcs, wine in China, martial arts and bending styles, alternative ships, winebending, and the importance of representation. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, In...2020-06-2651 min
PairingStar Wars Episode VI- The Return of the Jedi (with Anthony Pinggera)Anthony Pinggera returns to Pairing to discuss Episode VI of Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi. We agree that this movie somehow holds itself together despite having many moving parts, but we disagree on Jedi Rock. Plus: Harrison Ford's deathwish for Han, possible other directors, C-3PO: sommelier, the racism of the ewoks, Aaron Sorkin-style walk and talks, Roman Emperors, and a heartwarming story about Warwick Davis. SPOILER WARNING for ALL the Star Wars films. Anthony runs SpellTheory- a blog for Dungeon Masters and other D&D players. Follow him on Facebook and Twitter...2020-06-121h 19
PairingStar Wars Episode V- The Empire Strikes Back (with Christopher Dole)Happy 40 Years of The Empire Strikes Back! Christopher Dole returns to Pairing to discuss the sequel that redefined sequels, Episode V of the Star Wars saga. We talk about why this is our favorite Star Wars movie, how it was received at the time, and the difficulties they faced in making it. Plus: the great Frank Oz, deleted music, wines in balance, Han & Leia, the importance of taking risks, iconic lines, and incredible production design. Follow Christopher on Twitter @chrisdole86, and follow Arden @ardenpod. Check out Arden's Season 2 IndieGoGo! Find Us Online: If y...2020-05-221h 11
PairingStar Wars Episode IV- A New Hope (with Sarah Shachat)The great Sarah Shachat returns to Pairing to discuss the film that started it all: Episode IV- A New Hope (aka, the original Star Wars). Sarah, Emma, and Winston share their thoughts, love, and occasional criticism of this iconic film, and talk about how it came to be, and the alternative universe we would be in if Bill Murray had been cast as Han Solo. Plus: Wookiepedia, hot takes on Joseph Cambell, intellectual zeniths, inevitable Lord of the Rings references, and the wines of Tunisia (or Tatooine). Follow Sarah on Twitter @sarahshachat, and make sure to listen...2020-05-081h 11
PairingThe WitcherIt has happened: Emma has started playing video games! So, we decided to take this opportunity to talk about the Witcher Game and Television Series. Hear some stories about Emma's journey so far, learn a little bit about Czech wine, and hear a preview of Winston's version of "Toss a Coin to Your Witcher." Plus: gruff voices, Winston's History corner, Video Game Shoulder, nonlinear storytelling, Slavic fantasy, and Henry Cavill's abs. Emma's First Audiobook, Shadowborn: Book 1 of the Light & Shadow Series by Moira Katson, is now on Audible! Listen to it with a free trial on Scribd...2020-04-2449 min
PairingYour Wine Questions II: Quarantine EditionEmma and Winston talk about what they've been drinking while they practice social distancing in quarantine, and answer some of your wine questions! Listen to find out what it is that makes a wine not vegan, the difference in the fermentation processes between wine, beer, and spirits, and the Legend of the Black Rooster. Plus: tequila is an essential employee, finding love through a bacon, egg & cheese sandwich, Ales vs. Lagers 2020, the Pope's New Crib, a Hamm's family, and wine for the different DnD classes. Emma's First Audiobook, Shadowborn: Book 1 of the Light & Shadow Series by Moira K...2020-04-1059 min
PairingPodcasts (with Meghan Fitzmartin)Emma is joined by Meghan Fitzmartin (Supernatural, Red Rhino, Wine & Comics) to discuss one of our favorite mediums: podcasts and Audio Drama! Meghan shares some wisdom on what it's like to work in the entertainment industry, and some of the differences between writing for audio and visual mediums. Plus: kids dealing with superpowers, our love for villains, creative control in wine and television, and Red Wino. Follow Meghan on Twitter @megfitz89 and be sure to check out Red Rhino, Wine & Comics, and binge Supernatural while in quarantine. Find Us Online: If you enjoy P...2020-03-271h 04
PairingBrazil (with Zach Valenti)Emma is joined by Zach Valenti (Focused AF, No Bad Ideas) to discuss Terry Gilliam's dystopian fever dream of a film, Brazil. We talk about the importance of imagination in film and storytelling, and Zach comes up with a nightmare cocktail to pair with the movie. Plus: orange wines, living that hipster life, laser Valhalla, and poetic logic. Follow Zach on Twitter @zachvalenti and make sure to check out No Bad Ideas and his Daily Meditations on Focused.AF. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell...2020-03-201h 02
PairingStar Wars: Rogue OneEmma and Winston discuss the War Movie of the Star Wars saga, Rogue One. Hear our thoughts on how this movie expands the religion, politics, and diversity of this world, and listen to Emma find pairings for the characters in real time. Featuring: war-torn wine regions, Donnie Yen's magic, Lebanese wines, when in doubt: Tempranillo, and Darth Vader with a Barolo in one hand, a lightsaber in the other. Spoiler Warning for all the Star Wars movies, pretty much. Emma's First Audiobook, Shadowborn: Book 1 of the Light & Shadow Series by Moira Katson, is now available o...2020-02-2853 min
PairingGame NightFor Pairing's two-year anniversary and for Valentine's Day, we wanted to talk about one of our favorite pastimes, Board Games! Emma and Winston discuss some of their favorite games, from Settlers of Catan to Eldritch Horror to Clue, and Emma pairs wine with each of the games! Featuring: tabletop board games, deckbuilding games, storytelling games, and wines that are spicy and mysterious and doable in one night. Sponsor: -Winc is a wine subscription service that delivers high quality wine at affordable prices, customized to your palate, right to your door. Go to trywinc.com/pairingpodcast for...2020-02-141h 03
PairingLittle Women and Nostalgic Wines (with Arie Levine)Arie returns to Pairing to talk with Emma about a truly formative story in their lives that has a new retelling, Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott. They recount their experiences watching the film version starring Winona Ryder as children, and compare it to Greta Gerwig's recent adaptation. Emma also reminisces about some of her most "nostalgic" wines, many of which include the word "petite." Featuring: sexy lamps, who we think we are, wish we are, and fear we are, Tamora Pierce, some girl named Chelsea, hot takes on Timothée Chalomet, the Oscars are trash, and Your One B...2020-01-311h 20
PairingStar Wars: Solo (with Brandon Grugle)Emma is joined by Brandon Grugle (Join the Party, Multitude) to discuss the underrated Star Wars film, Solo. We talk about rejecting toxic fandom, how this is just a fun Space Cowboy genre piece, and how it solidifies our love for Han Solo. Plus, we play the best game we've played on Pairing yet: Star Wars character or Portuguese grape? and Emma learns that Brandon is a Ciceron (aka Beer Sommelier). Also featuring: Woody Harrelson in a white linen suit, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, frenemy-ships, swashbuckly wines, and wines to drink out of Solo Cups. Warning: Contains Spoilers! 2020-01-171h 18
PairingComfort Wines for Comfort TVWe're starting the year (and the decade) off with a feel-good episode about the TV shows that just make us feel good. We discuss some of our favorite comfort TV shows, including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Frasier, Gilmore Girls, and Star Trek, and Emma and Winston recommend some of their favorite "comfort" wines and spirits. Featuring: David Boreanaz's never-ending career, powerful women, timeless comedy, Anthony Stewart Head being the best, non-toxic masculinity, puns about stakes, and a theme song medley by Winston. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and...2020-01-0650 min
PairingStar Wars: The Prequels (Part II)Emma and Winston finish their discussion of the Star Wars prequels, and Winston makes his controversial yet compelling case that Episode III is a superior film to Episode VI. Plus: Ian McDiarmid as Palpatine for 40 years, Ewan's McGregor's increasingly good hair choices, and Samuel L. Jackson, Jedi Master. Thank you to everyone who listened to us in 2019! Cheers to you! Sponsor: -Care/Of is a subscription service that delivers vitamins and supplements customized for your specific health needs. Go to takecareof.com and use the promo code PAIRING for 25% off your first order!...2019-12-2044 min
PairingStar Wars: The Prequels (Part I)Emma and Winston kick off their new series about Star Wars with a controversial discussion of the prequels- controversial because Winston actually likes them. We discuss much maligned wines, and the strengths of these films- mostly the fight choreography, sound design, and Ewan McGregor- and their myriad weaknesses- namely the dialogue, overall storytelling, and Jar Jar Binks. Will Winston convince you, though, that Revenge of the Sith is a better film than Return of the Jedi? Join us to find out... Sponsor: -Winc is a wine subscription service that delivers high quality wine at affordable p...2019-12-1353 min
PairingYour Wine QuestionsIt's storytime with Emma as she answers some of your awesome queries into the wine world and the wine industry. Listen to hear what inexpensive sparkling wine Emma loves, the secret of "off-dry" wines, and what an LBV Port is. Also featuring: secrets of the trade, Kyle McLachlan, and some weird funky juice. Sponsor: -Care/Of is a subscription service that delivers vitamins and supplements customized for your specific health needs. Go to takecareof.com and use the promo code PAIRING for 25% off your first order! Find Us Online: If you en...2019-11-2857 min
PairingBONUS EPISODE: Thanksgiving WinesOriginally a Patreon-only mini Episode, Emma shares her recommendations for the best wines for Thanksgiving and what pieces of art to pair with them. If you don't celebrate Thanksgiving (because, you know, it's fraught with hypocrisy), these are still some excellent recommendations for food-friendly wines for all occasions. Consider this our opportunity to give YOU thanks for listening to Pairing! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @PairingPodcast. Also check out our website, www.thepairingpodcast.com Please...2019-11-2208 min
PairingHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (with Sarah Wolfe)Emma is joined by her longtime friend Sarah Wolfe to discuss the last and most epic of the Harry Potter novels, The Deathly Hallows. We talk about the flaws in the book(s), but also what is so wonderful and powerful about them, and we have our own Hallows vs. Horcruxes debate. Plus, Emma talks a bunch about California wine. Featuring: camping wine vs. battle wine, discussing the epitaphs, children being the hope of our generation, living in a fascist state, actual books on tape, wine genres, Jim Dale vs. Stephen Fry, J.K.'s homage to J.R...2019-11-081h 28
PairingHallowine (with John-Paul Cirelli)John-Paul Cirelli of Mondo Vulgare returns to talk all things Halloween. We cover a LOT of ground in this one: from Halloween classics like The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus to The Simpsons Halloween Specials to the Universal Monster movies, and Emma compiles a list of Hallowines, aka Halloween appropriate wines. Also featuring: Christina Ricci, a Washington Conspiracy, Hot Topic, Ozzy Osbourne, werewolf mythology, Pumpkin themed spirits, and #bighalloweenenergy. John-Paul is the creator, writer, and curator for Mondo Vulgare, a horror page with brains. Follow Mondo Vulgare on Facebook and on Twitter @MondoVulgare for lots of...2019-10-251h 29
PairingNeil Gaiman (with Anthony Pinggera)Emma is joined by her good friend and fellow nerd to discuss the works of one of their favorite living authors, Neil Gaiman. They focus on American Gods, Good Omens, and Neverwhere, and express their unequivocal love for all his novels, but some mixed feelings for some of his film work. Listen to hear which wines pair well with the macabre and the whimsical, and which ones have wolves on the label. Plus: sexy Scottish accents, hard to pronounce names, Metallica, Alice in Wonderland meets the Matrix, and Dark Fae Energy. Follow Anthony on Instagram @anthohno and m...2019-10-111h 01
PairingThe Land of Two Thousand Grapes (Part One: The White Wines of Italy)While most people think of red wine when they think of Italy, in this episode Emma tells you all about the lesser-known and highly underrated white wines of Italy, while Winston shares his knowledge of Italian and European History. Listen to hear what Garganega, Cortese, and Friulano are, and which Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle would drink which wine. Featuring: Tina Fey, Lady Gaga, Metallica, Orange Wines, Dante, Frasier, Machiavelli, and the wines of truth. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Inst...2019-09-271h 05
PairingHarry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (with Mike Schubert)Mr. Potterless himself, Mike Schubert, returns to Pairing to talk HP with Emma. Schubes talks about why this is his favorite book of the series, and also makes some pretty stellar pairings of his own as we discuss his experiences with the wines of the Pacific Northwest. Featuring: The Half-Blood Ziarko, pinball bars, novelty pens, "glew up", "upping and coming," and Professor Sprout's ladies' wine night. Mike is the host of Potterless, as well as the co-host of HORSE, on Multitude Productions. Follow him on Twitter @Schubes17. Sponsors: -Winc is a wine subscription ser...2019-09-201h 12
PairingBONUS EPISODE:Sweet & Spicy Food and Bottle Shapes & SizesFIXED VERSION! Because we're going to be late with this week's episode, here are two mini-episodes that Emma released on the Patreon way back delving deeper into wine pairing, wine lore, and wine education. Find out how to break rules, when to follow them, and my favorite technical wine term, fiasco. Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your friends! Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & Tumblr @PairingPodcast. Also check out our website, www.thepairingpodcast.com Please consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts, as t...2019-09-1327 min
PairingThe Sound of Music and Austrian Wine (with Arie Levine)Emma is joined by one of her best friends, Arie Levine, to discuss the timeless classic, The Sound of Music. Arie regales us with tales of her Austrian honeymoon, Emma tells the very weird history of Austrian wine, and they both express their love for Julie Andrews. Plus: our favorite Von Trapp child, the Sound of Music drinking game, the movie versus the stage production, the Tour de Franzia, Christoph Waltz, glühwein, standing up to nazis, Kirschwasser & cake, and the Fred and George of the Von Trapp family. Arie is just a person doing her life, b...2019-09-011h 03
PairingThe Music of John Williams Part Two (with Christopher Dole)Christopher Dole of Arden returns to finish our discussion of the movie music of John Williams, this time discussing JFK, Catch Me if You Can, and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Listen to hear more about music theory, "Johnny" Williams, and how music and wine go hand in hand. Plus: Spielberg's daddy issues, the Peter Pan complex, calling J.J. Abrams "baby," our favorite Leonardo DiCaprio performances, and 40 years of Star Wars music and 40-year old wine. Christopher is a co-creator and co-writer of Arden, a mystery-comedy Audio Drama. Follow him on Twitter @chrisdole86. All...2019-08-161h 08
PairingThe Music of John Williams Part One (with Christopher Dole)Emma is joined by Christopher Dole of Arden for a unique Pairing conversation: the music of film composer John Williams! Listen to hear us discuss 4 of Williams' scores: The Reivers, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, 1941, and E.T. We chat about music theory and how Williams invokes the divine, American music and American wine, and Emma makes an accidental perfect pairing. Plus: Fiddler on the Roof, aliens, and Steven Spielberg on the Clarinet. Christopher is a co-creator and co-writer of Arden, a mystery-comedy Audio Drama. Follow him on Twitter @chrisdole86. All musical excerpts in...2019-08-021h 10
PairingHarry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (with Julia Schifini)Emma is joined again by Julia Schifini (now one of our editors!) to discuss the fifth and divisive book in the Harry Potter series, The Order of the Phoenix, as well as the wine region of Argentina! We discuss mental health, corruption, and Emma's tumultuous relationship to Malbec. Plus: the Luna Lovegood and Hermione Granger of the Wine World, goats, espionage, fighting fascism and going to therapy. Content Warning: discussion of trauma, abuse, alzheimer's, and dementia. Julia is a co-host of Spirits, a boozy dive into myths and legends, and star of Tides Podcast, as we...2019-07-191h 10
PairingThe War of the RosésFinally, Emma gets to share her passion for pink wine in this more unusual, wine-centric episode. Learn why "White Zinfandel" ruined rosé's reputation, and why people like Emma are spreading the good word for delicious, dry rosé. Find out which rosés to look out for, how it's made, and listen to Winston blind taste (and pair video game/Sci-fi characters with) three rosés. Plus: the Pirate Code of Wine, the Knights Templar & conspiracy theories, history corner with Winston, Klingon wine, Anton Chekhov and the Pairing Drinking Game. Check out the accompanying Blog Post that Emma...2019-07-051h 11
PairingGodzilla Part Two: The Terroir of the Kaiju (with Rafael Hernán Gamboa)Emma and Winston continue their conversation with filmmaker Rafael Hernán Gamboa about Godzilla and the other Kaiju who inhabit his world. We talk about dinosaurs, volcanoes, monster origins, and Japanese geography. Plus: Batman, the Kaiju version of Easy Rider, Rodan not Rodin, the truth about wine sediment, botrytis, Bradley Whitford, and #justiceformothra. Rafael is the host of the YouTube channel The Long Take, make sure to check it out and subscribe! You can also watch his award-winning short film, Violet, on Amazon. Sponsors: -Care/Of is a subscription service that delivers vitamins and...2019-06-211h 15
PairingGodzilla Part One (with Rafael Hernán Gamboa)Winston and Emma are joined by filmmaker and writer Rafael Hernán Gamboa to discuss the King of the Monsters, Godzilla. We talk about Godzilla's evolution from monster to protector, and how the differences in his role represents the cultural divide between America and Japan. Plus: radical empathy, embodying social trauma, more sake, the king of wines, sound effects, and complex sentiments about a guy in a rubber suit. Rafael is the host of the YouTube channel The Long Take, make sure to check it out and subscribe! You can also watch his award-winning short film, Violet, on A...2019-06-0752 min
PairingHarry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (with Amanda McLoughlin)Amanda McLoughlin (Multitude, Spirits) returns to Pairing to talk about another great fantasy novel, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. We talk about how pivotal this book was not only for the series but for the fandom, and Amanda educates Emma on a different kind of "pairing." Plus: Luna Lovegood and Newt Scamander, Pinot Gri-Gri, media criticism, if Ginny were a Slytherin, and sexy Australian fanfics. Amanda is the co-host of Spirits and Join The Party, and the founder of Multitude Productions. Check out Multitude's website for podcasting resources, and to hire her as a podcasting c...2019-05-241h 10
PairingAvengers: Endgame (with Lauren Shippen) SPOILERS!!Lauren Shippen (The Bright Sessions, The AM Archives) returns to Pairing in the wake of Avengers: Endgame to talk about all our feelings. Winston joins for this one as we share all our thoughts on Captain America, Tony Stark, Thor, Black Widow, and the rest. We talk about how we felt about the film, why Lauren should write for Marvel, and what we're looking forward to in the future of the MCU. Plus: time paradox theories and wine paired with emotions. SPOILER WARNING for Avengers: Endgame DO NOT LISTEN if you haven't seen it yet!!! ...2019-05-1053 min
PairingIron Man (with Mischa Stanton)Endgame is upon us, and so Emma is joined by Mischa Stanton, Audio Sorcerer, to talk about the heart of the MCU itself thus far, Tony Stark, aka Iron Man. Listen to hear how we think the Iron Man films stack up against the other Marvel films, and where we think Iron Man will go from here. Plus, wealth and its affect on accessibility, wines that overcompensate, and Mischa's Marvel OTP. Mischa works on so many wonderful podcasts including LeVar Burton Reads, The Bright Sessions, The AM Archives (available now on Luminary), and all their shows from...2019-04-251h 14
PairingThe Guardians of the GalaxyWinston returns as we prepare ourselves for the upcoming Endgame by talking about the pluckiest movies in the MCU, The Guardians of the Galaxy. Listen to hear why we love both Guardians movies and what wine each Guardian would drink. Plus: which actor we'd like to join our DnD campaign, why the soundtrack is so great, the upcoming Dune movie, the perennial Hemingway-Faulkner debate, the inimitable Vin Diesel, and true hero Selma Blair. Thank you so much to our first-ever sponsor, ZipRecruiter! ZipRecruiter helps connect employers and businesses to the talent that will work best for them...2019-04-121h 06
PairingCats and Wine (with John-Paul Cirelli)Welcome to the most on-brand episode of Pairing yet, Cats and Wine! Emma is joined by film buff John-Paul Cirelli to discuss some of the most prominent and adorable examples of cats in movies, and the surprising prevalence of cats in wine culture. We talk about everything from Looney Tunes to Hocus Pocus to Harry Potter to Alien, and also why German winemakers are obsessed with black cats. Plus: wine puns, our un-ironic love for Keanu Reeves, Antonio Banderas in the role that he was born to play, and the great Marlon Brando Cat Conspiracy. Spoiler warning for Kiki's D...2019-03-291h 15
PairingHarry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (with Sarah Shachat, Gabriel Urbina, and Zach Valenti)Emma is joined by the brilliant trio behind Wolf 359 and No Bad Ideas, Sarah Shachat, Gabriel Urbina, and Zach Valenti, to talk about the third book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and the wine region of South Africa. They all agree that this is one of the best books in the series, but have differing opinions on the movie. There are hot takes on the films, debates about Butterbeer, and wine with wolves on the label. Plus: tackling injustice, hippogriff tattoos, Cabo Tormentoso, the Great Muggle Clothes Controversy, the Seriously Sirius drinking...2019-03-151h 16
PairingDungeons & Dragons (with Eric Silver)We're keeping it fresh at Pairing with a brand new topic: games! Emma is joined by Eric Silver (Join the Party, HORSE) to talk about the original Role Playing Game, Dungeons and Dragons. Whether or not you play D&D, if you like storytelling, you'll love this episode! They talk about similarities between Nerd culture and Wine culture, gatekeeping v. inclusivity, and the importance of names. Plus: hot takes on Bards, The Kingkiller Chronicles, Dragon Wines, "sommelier-ing", horror twins, Daddy Warlock, dope swords, a high constitution for Chardonnay, and Josh. Eric is the host and Dungeon Master o...2019-03-011h 17
PairingThe Beatles v. The Rolling StonesIt's our One Year Anniversary, and we're celebrating by talking about something we haven't yet on the podcast: Rock'n'Roll! Winston and Emma talk about the two most important bands of the British Invasion, their different influences and legacies, and what wine each is more like. Listen to hear lots of bad British accents, a horrible wine pun, and some sappy retrospectives on our first year in business. Plus: John Mulaney, a real-life Vampire, Biodynamics revisited, Paleolithic Rock, the best thing America ever did for the World, Milton, Greek Goddesses, Grand Moff Tarkin, and Emma's brief career with Martin Scorsese.2019-02-1559 min
PairingThe Old Kingdom Trilogy by Garth Nix (with Amanda McLoughlin)Emma is joined by podcasting extraordinaire Amanda McLoughlin (Multitude Productions, Spirits, Join the Party) to discuss one of the most underrated fantasy trilogies ever, The Old Kingdom by Garth Nix. They discuss the three books (Sabriel, Lirael, and Abhorsen) and their different experiences reading them: Amanda as a child, and Emma listening to Tim Curry narrate them while on her recent honeymoon. Both agree that they are tremendous novels- listen to find out why, and to find out about one of the world's oldest grapes. Plus: the Black Book of Bibliomancy, pronunciation of fantasy names, necromancers, Egyptian Afterlife, music & ma...2019-02-011h 03
PairingHarry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Part IIEmma & Winston wrap up their discussion of Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling by the fire, and things get heated as Emma discovers one of Winston's own darkest secrets. Things on Pairing may never be the same again. Listen to find out what caused all the drama, and also who our favorite Dumbledore is. Plus: Wizard People: Dear Reader, Harry's a baus, Emma struggles with her own timeline, remembering good times with our moms, Shakespeare Camp, the Voldemort of the Wine Industry, the validity of critics, and masterpiece podcasting. Spoilers for the whole H...2019-01-1846 min
PairingHarry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Part IWe're back with the third episode in our Harry Potter and New World Wines Series! In this episode, Emma and Winston discuss the second book in J.K. Rowling's seminal children's series: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Because it's a children's book, they discuss many children's book themes, like racism, classism, and slavery. Listen to hear why we think this book is the most underrated in the series, what is problematic about it, and why Emma pairs the wine region of New Zealand with it. Plus: hubs-bot, father figures, how to pronounce Lucius, White Male Mediocrity, Gilderoy Lo...2019-01-0457 min
PairingWomen's Wrestling: The First Royal Rumble Part Two (with Julia Schifini)Emma is headed back into the ring accompanied by Julia Schifini (Spirits, Tides), to find out the conclusion of the first-ever Women's Royal Rumble with the WWE! Find out who wins, and who she chooses to face at WrestleMania. Also listen to hear more of Julia's insights into the world of wrestling, and which women wrestlers have their own wine label. Plus: the Stratus-phere, vaguely dominatrix-y, the cats of wrestling, whiskey, hating Ronda Rousey, the Revolution and the Evolution, the anti-diva, genderqueer wrestlers, and 30 women in wine worthy of the WWE. Julia is a co-host of Spirits...2018-12-2854 min
PairingWomen's Wrestling: The First Royal Rumble Part One (with Julia Schifini)Get ready to rumble! Pairing is breaking new ground as Julia Schifini (Spirits, Tides) returns talk about the WWE and professional wrestling. Specifically, Julia shows Emma the first ever Women's Royal Rumble, and Emma is dumbfounded by its awesomeness. In this first part, we talk about all 30 participants, the beefs, the friendships, the outfits and the hair. Listen to learn what the kayfabe is, who's a heel and who's a face, and what beer you should drink while watching wrestling. Plus:modern commedia dell'arte, Viking Queens, divas and superstars, the Samoan Drop, werewolves, Xena Warrior Princess, the first out...2018-12-211h 00
PairingSake & MiyazakiIn this episode, Emma & Winston tackle new subjects and a new part of the world: Hayao Miyazaki, sake, and Japan! Listen to find out what Junmai, Ginjo, and Daiginjo mean on a sake label, as well as which Miyazaki films are our favorites of Princess Mononoke, Howl's Moving Castle, and Spirited Away. We talk about the magic of these films and the dangers of the deliciousness of sake. Plus: how to pronounce Ghibli (we don't know), alcoholic Fresca, Mr. Hatgood, good mold, nigori, nama, genshu, Emma & Winston being gross, steampunk magic, ta-da forever, and several new slogans. Kampai! 2018-12-0747 min
PairingHarry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Part II (with Emma Cohen)Emma is joined again by her long-time best friend, other Emma, who is definitely a real person, to discuss the first of the most seminal books of their childhood, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's (or Philosopher's) Stone. This is the second episode in our HP & New World Wine Series, in which Emma S-Z pairs the Harry Potter novels with different major New World Wine regions. Listen to the episode to find out what we think about Quidditch, which trio of grapes Harry, Ron, & Hermione would be, and why Emma S-Z had to kick her sports fan habit. Plus: the...2018-11-2358 min
PairingHarry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Part I (with Emma Cohen)Emma is joined by her long-time best friend, other Emma, who is definitely a real person, to discuss the first of the most seminal books of their childhood, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's (or Philosopher's) Stone. This is the first episode in our HP & New World Wine Series, in which Emma S-Z pairs the Harry Potter novels with different major New World Wine regions. The Emmas talk about what it was like discovering the magic of these books as kids, and how dark they really are. Listen to the episode to hear what we think is problematic about goblins...2018-11-0959 min
PairingHoneymoon Part Two- ItalyWinston and Emma relay tales of their gastronomical, cultural, and artistic adventures while on the Italian leg of their Honeymoon. We relive our favorite experiences in Cinque Terre, Florence, and Rome this month, including seeing the David, the Coliseum, and eating lots of pasta. Listen to hear us misremember Italian Renaissance history, where the best sandwiches are in Florence, and be basic Americans and talk about Under the Tuscan Sun and Gladiator. Plus: the "Alias Grape", pesto, Fellini, the Duomo, the Roman Forum, Leather, Hapsburg Princes running restaurants, the Medici, Caravaggio the fighting painter, queer Italian Renaissance artists, bathroom r...2018-10-2651 min
PairingHoneymoon Part One-SpainWinston and Emma relay tales of their gastronomical, cultural, and artistic adventures while on the Spanish leg of their Honeymoon. Recorded in Barcelona on Emma's iPhone, they remember their favorite experiences in San Sebastián, Granada, and Madrid. Listen to hear about the best pintxo bars in San Sebastián, the astonishing Alhambra in Granada, and the miracle of tapas. Plus: the Grandad Cocktail, Txakoli, raptors, gatitas, Minotaurs (who are always librarians, as everyone knows), Goya, Flamenco, Anthony Bourdain, the coexistence of cultures and traditions in Spain, and jamón. Always jamón. Warning: this episode may not...2018-10-261h 01
PairingThe Princess BrideIn honor of the release of our 20th episode, Emma and Winston got married last weekend! So, we decided to talk about the film that first made us realize we were in love, the cult classic The Princess Bride, directed by Rob Reiner and based on the book by William Goldman. This episode is mostly a glimpse into what our daily life is like, i.e. us quoting the film and giggling at each other. Listen to find out what wine Vizzini, Fezzik, Inigo, and the rest would drink, and how much of the film was included in our w...2018-09-2857 min
PairingThor (with Julia Schifini)Emma is joined by mythology and podcasting guru Julia Schifini to discuss everyone's favorite goofy hunky Norse god, Thor! The general consensus is that whatever Thor would drink, he'd drink a lot of it (so we did). Julia is not only a mythology expert but also knows a ton about the Marvel comics, and enlightens Emma on how much better Natalie Portman's character was originally. Listen to hear us discuss gender politics, why mead fell out of fashion, and cheese! Plus: gender-queer Loki, Joss Whedon, iambic pentameter, New Zealand Chardonnay, Gaelic pronunciation, Kenneth Branagh v. Taika Waititi and Josh...2018-09-141h 10
PairingSpider-Man (with Mike Schubert)Emma and Winston are joined by Mike Schubert of Potterless to discuss our favorite friendly neighborhood superhero: Spider-Man! This is the second episode in our Marvel series, and we touch on a lot of topics that we covered in the Captain America episode, and so much more! Mike, Winston, and Emma enjoy dwelling in some nostalgia while they talk about Spider-Man through the ages. Listen to hear who our favorite cinematic Spider-Man is, why Spidey villains are the best, and which New York wines to look out for. Plus: the Mad Hungarian, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Scarlett Johansson as...2018-08-281h 08
PairingCaptain America (with Lauren Shippen)Welcome to the first in a series of Marvel-themed episodes! We're kicking it off with a discussion of none other than the First Avenger, Captain America (aka Steve Rogers) with the amazing podcasting guru Lauren Shippen (The Bright Sessions). Lauren and Emma talk about how Cap is actually a character with a lot of darkness and needs to practice more self-care while he saves the world. Listen to find out how rosé is made, why we love Chris Evans, and who is, objectively, the best Avenger. Plus: the Great Phylloxera, villains, pettiness, ice wine/eiswein, $20,000 wine vs. frosé, Cap's de...2018-08-141h 06
PairingHis Dark Materials (with Gabriel Urbina)Emma is joined by friend & collaborator Gabriel Urbina, the inestimable creator and head writer for Wolf 359, to discuss His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman. Gabriel explains why these are his favorite books of all time, and Emma gets excited to re-read them, as they discuss this "Hippie Acid Trip of a Book." Listen to hear Emma and Gabriel bond over being pretentious teenagers, winemaking as an art form, and not liking what your idols like. Plus: backflips, orange wine, Sancho Panza, cats!, daemons (and demons), Harry Potter and the Patronus Quiz, Pixar, "Schrodinger-esque", cookie-dough, and the silliness police. ...2018-07-3156 min
PairingAustralian Wine on the Fury RoadAt last! An episode focused on a wine region in the Southern Hemisphere! As Australia is one of the great wine regions in the world, we thought we'd talk about one of the greatest films of the 21st Century, George Miller's Mad Max: Fury Road. Winston and Emma talk about how much they love this movie, while they butcher Australian geography and accents (sorry Aussies!). Listen to hear about our favorite action hero, Charlize Theron, the difference between Australian wine regions, some amazing fun facts about Mad Max, and what our top five Action Movies are. Plus: feminism, throwbacks to...2018-07-1759 min
PairingGas Station Wines (with Michelle Agresti)This Episode we take a departure and just have some fun, because that is ultimately what wine and art is supposed to be! Emma is joined by Michelle Agresti to talk about Guilty Pleasures, aka "Gas Station Wines for Gas Station Media." Listen to the episode to hear us talk about Britney Spears, the repertoire of Will Ferrell, Manischewitz, Excalibur, musicals, and Dolly Parton. Also: petting zoos, Moscato revelations, Enya renditions, Amaretto Sours, "Adult Sunny-D", high-brow goldfish, and Cougar Juice. This Episode also features Scotty Shoemaker. Special thanks to Scotty Shoemaker for his help with audio recording...2018-07-0354 min
PairingDuneEmma and Winston discuss the novel Dune by Frank Herbert, a seminal novel in the Science-fiction genre, and how it represents a Holy War on a cosmic scale. We talk about religion, mythology, the function of Sci-fi and fantasy in society, the hajj and the influence of Islam, Cistercian Monks & Chablis, and Winston recites beautiful poetry. Plus: desert (not dessert) wines, the American Southwest, the prayer of the Human Computer, diurnal shifts, the Crusades, cockamamie, and Sting. Content warning: discussion of sexual assault and predatory behavior in the novel Dune by Frank Herbert. If you are looking f...2018-06-1942 min
PairingThe Return of the KingWelcome to the last installment of our Middle-earth and Old World Wine Series! Almost as epic as The Return of the King (J.R.R. Tolkien) itself, this episode is a raucous good time (and Emma gets audibly tipsy). Listen to find out which wines to pair with a king, with the dead, and with the pure of heart. Plus: Greek mythology, the veil between life and death, Scotch, the literal Deus Ex Machina, Cougar Juice, seafaring grapes, and DOOM!!!! Find Us Online: If you enjoy Pairing, follow us on social media and tell your...2018-06-051h 01
PairingDraculaEmma and Winston discuss one of their favorite novels, Dracula by Bram Stoker. We talk about what is sexy, what is subversive, and what is problematic in the book, and how its influence has subsisted through time, almost like Dracula himself! Also, we're drinking a wine from a winery that basically heralds the mission statement of this podcast, Villa Spinosa, a producer of Valpolicella in Italy. Listen to the episode to find out why Emma is a Vampire person, what "appassimento" means, and why corvina is a great grape for Dracula. Also: most books have page numbers, the Land of...2018-05-221h 02
PairingBattlestar Galactica (with Sarah Shachat)Emma is joined by the highly astute and talented writer Sarah Shachat (Wolf 359) to discuss one of their favorite shows, Battlestar Galactica. Sarah shares her insight on what it's like to write for a serialized Sci-fi show, and we talk about artistic integrity v. commercial accessibility, as it relates to both writing and wine. Listen to hear about religious tensions, diurnal shifts, and genetically modified grapes (and cylons). Plus: The Princess Bride Rules, music as main character, astrology, and laugh track/commentary by Zach Libresco. WARNING: there are SPOILERS for Battlestar Galactica in this episode. If you...2018-05-0847 min
PairingThe Two Towers, Part IIThis episode is one of our favorites so far, in which Emma and Winston primarily discuss the wine regions of Spain and Germany! This is the second part of our discussion of The Two Towers, which is the fifth installment of our Middle-earth and Old World Wine Series, wherein we pair every place in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien with different wine regions in Europe. Listen to the episode to learn about Ribera del Duero, the Spanish Civil War, and Julius Caesar. Plus: Christopher Lee's Chocolatey Voice, "dramatic-ness", Federico García Lorca...2018-04-2432 min
PairingThe Two Towers Part IWe made it to The Two Towers! This is the fourth episode in our Middle-earth and Old World Wines Series, in which Emma pairs every place in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings with a different wine region in Europe. In this episode, Emma and Winston talk mostly about Austrian and German wine, including the weird, animal-themed classification of Austrian wine. Learn how to say "falconry" and "emerald lizard" in German, what a fiasco means in the wine world, where Ents came from, and what one of the oldest wines in the world is. Plus: Vikings, Éowyn...2018-04-1236 min
PairingMacbeth (with Zach Libresco)This week Emma is joined by special guest Zach Libresco to discuss William Shakespeare's spookiest play, Macbeth. Zach and Emma reminisce about their time together performing Shakespeare in college and discuss Zach's most recent experience with the Scottish Play with the Humanist Project. There is much laughter, critical thought, and possibly a visit from the Weird Sisters during a discussion of moral ambiguity and deception, both in Shakespeare and in wine. Find out what oak-aging does to wine, the difference between reading a play and hearing a play, and the Corsican name for Sangiovese. Plus: Hamilton, travel plans, Patrick S...2018-03-2954 min
PairingWomen in WineHappy (Belated) International Women's Day! In honor of Women's History Month, Emma & Winston talk about some amazing, badass women in the world of wine, art, history, and pop culture. Learn about some of the rockstar women in the wine world including winemakers, winery owners/directors, and scholars, through a discussion of the representation of women in fine art, the Bible, Sci-Fi, and modern entertainment. Plus, the reasoning behind swishy, sniffy, sippy, Nestor & Bambi, how Emma & Winston met, intersectionality, and Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul. Women in Wine discussed in this episode: Hélène, Catherine, and Cécil...2018-03-2257 min
PairingThe Fellowship of the Ring Part IIThe journey continues through Middle-earth and European Wine Regions for Emma & Winston! This is the third episode in the Middle-earth and Old World Wines series, wherein Emma pairs each place in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien with a different wine region in Europe. In this episode, we talk about the second half The Fellowship of the Ring. Find out why Riesling and Chenin Blanc are Emma's two favorite white grapes (probably), why Port is really confusing, and what Emma's "cosplay" was to Dragon Con last year. Plus: a patented Winston tangent, romance...2018-03-1537 min
PairingThe Fellowship of the Ring Part IThis is the second episode in the Middle-earth and Old World Wines series, wherein Emma pairs each place in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien with a different wine region in Europe. In this episode, we talk about the first half The Fellowship of the Ring. Find out why this is Emma's favorite book of the bunch, what "noble rot" and "carbonic maceration" are, and what Winston Churchill's favorite Champagne was. Plus: Emma's Patronus, the Santa Claus Deus Ex Machina, Champagne versus Sparkling Wine, and the Nexus of Nerd-dom. Find Us Onli...2018-03-0150 min
PairingTruth, Balance, & Dragons: A Tribute to Ursula K. Le GuinIn this episode, Emma and Winston pay homage to the recently deceased Ursula K. Le Guin, one of the greatest Sci-fi and Fantasy authors of the past century. We also talk about the wines of Angela Osborne, a winemaker working with primarily the Grenache grape in Santa Barbara, California. This episode is a break from the "hardcore wine education," as we mostly discuss Le Guin's writing, legacy, and philosophy. We touch upon her relationship with "truth" as an artist, her interest in the balance of opposing forces, and also dragons. Find Us Online: If you enjoy P...2018-02-1646 min