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The Maker and The MerchantGrubby Hole Diggers pt II (ft Jack Merrylees) The last dropWe know, we know—this episode is a bit late! With Lee off on a well-deserved summer holiday, Ferg took over the editing duties, which somehow turned into a 10-day epic. But, as they say, good things come to those who wait!
In this season finale, Ferg and Jack take the reins for the second part of our deep dive into the history of wine. From the Romans’ questionable attempts to cultivate vineyards in chilly Britain to the Dark Ages, where viticulture all but vanished, our dynamic duo explores how wine managed to survive and thrive in Engl...2024-08-3147 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: Grubby hole diggers - Jack Merrylees and the potted history of wineThe end is nigh, after 7 months and 42 episodes season 3 of The Maker and The Merchant is finally coming to a conclusion. Fear not however as we have two more episodes to share with you as we bring this season to a close prior to our summer break. Unfortunately Lee misread the communication from TM&TM hr and has already started his summer hols. Fortunately Ferg was joined by the inimitable Jack Merrylees, Marketing director at Balfour Winery and general history buff. This week Ferg and Jack desperately try to get from the first grape vine to "hommo Winemaker" the...2024-08-0149 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: Not Yet Named Wine Co.DEMOCRACY! We love it. Especially when it goes our way…and involves wine. But do democracy and wine meet anywhere? Sure, the Greeks drank plenty of wine and invented the concept, but what about today? Where are the winemaking heroes prepared to put big decisions back in our hands?
Wait…should we leave non-experts to make such large and groundbreaking decisions?
One man who has proved democracy is alive and well, and can be found in the wonderful world of wine is Alex Brogan (not an IWSC 30 Under 30 Winner as some mistakenly think) founder of The Not Yet Named Wine Comp...2024-07-2558 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: Have You Been To A Wine Dinner?Welcome back dear listener. You can't help yourself can you? Following the ENORMOUS success of our English Wine Week series, Ferg & Lee review the week itself. From the big news of the week, to the announcement of the Wine GB awards, we name our favourites and highlight once again the exciting world of English Wine.
Lee then raises of the question of just where to have a good wining and dining experience in Oxford. The city may be a seat of culture and learning, and be home to many great wine merchants, but where in town can you go for a...2024-07-1851 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM Wine GB industry report special with Phoebe FrenchIn this week’s emergency episode, Fergus delves into the latest industry statistics released by Wine GB, accompanied by the wonderful Phoebe French, communications manager at Wine GB.
Unfortunately, Lee couldn’t join the podcast this week as he found himself unexpectedly detained by Sussex Police on suspicion of attempting to “float a winery out to sea.” While this peculiar incident has temporarily sidelined Lee, rest assured he’ll be back with us next week to share his unique perspectives.
Seizing this unexpected opportunity, Fergus decided to record from his parked car in an industrial estate. Con...2024-07-1130 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: The wrong varieties1,000 downloads in a month. IN A SINGLE MONTH! No, we're not harvesting stats from some Russian bot farm, these are all from you. Our dear Listener. How can we say thank you?
We, we thought we'd say thank you by continuing to record our absolute nonsense. This week opens with thoughts about the new snooker season and crying in the streets. However, we quickly get into things as Ferg shares many details about his recent 'study' trip to Alsace.
From the impact of climate change to discovering Syrah (yeah, nice one Ferg, it's been around a while) via a discussion a...2024-07-0458 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM Langham live specialTM&TM Langham are 15
Does the child of two MWs become an MW cubed?
What should you have at Cobham services?
Why are there so many Starbucks at service stations out west?
Why are the boys in the Langham disgorging hall?
What is the ethos at Langham and why is it so special?
All will be explained in this one-off special episode to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Langham, featuring the second-youngest head winemaker in the country, Tommy "Bloody" Grimshaw.
#EnglishWine #LanghamWine #15thAnniversary #TommyGrimshaw
#Wi...2024-06-2725 minThe Maker and The MerchantSUNDAY 23RD: MARIE DAVIES STOPHAMIt’s a shame someone has to go last in these mini series. But, we have saved a big hitter and one of our favourites for you.In today’s concluding episode we talk to Marie Davies of Stopham fame. Synonymous with this excellent producer, you may think that Marie has been there from the start. Marie talks us through her journey into wine and the industry, and how she became so innately connected and vital to Stopham (and English wine generally)
Then by exploring the story of Stopham, and their approach to the vineyard and wine, we c...2024-06-2326 minThe Maker and The MerchantSATURDAY 22ND: MARK DARLEY ALL ANGELSFor today’s English Wine Week episode we head to Berkshire, to a place that is only 45 minutes from Paddington station. Who would have thought there would be vineyards so close to London? We have a world of vinous riches on our doorsteps in the UK and today we talk to the wonderful Mark Darley, the man behind All Angels Vineyard.
Trading a life in the city and a ‘commute next to someone’s armpit’ for ‘a 3 minute walk with 3 labradors’ seems like a pretty good deal to us, and this is exactly what Mark did when he w...2024-06-2229 minThe Maker and The MerchantFRIDAY 21ST: PHIL HARRIS NATALIA HARRISAs we hurtle towards the end of English Wine Week there is still plenty of time for everyone to get involved. With the weekend around the corner surely it’s time for a glass of something English. But do you stop to consider the world behind the glass? When were these grapes planted? Who is working them and what are the challenges? Just what would drive someone to undertake such a challenge?
Today we talk to the joyful and joyous Phil Harris from Natalia Harris. Phil’s journey began as a natural successor to Indiana Jones...2024-06-2124 minThe Maker and The MerchantTHURSDAY 20TH: CHARLIE SCRASE DICKINS COOLHURSTWhat’s cooler than being cool? Being an awesome English wine grower making something unique, exciting, and boundary pushing. Or as Andre 3000 summed it up…’ice cold’.
Charlie quoted Gareth Maxwell when he told me “B*ll*cks, what can go wrong?”. Charlie takes us on a wonderful journey through the incredible history of this piece of land – a history that involves Henry VIII, the Canadian Royal Air Force, Peter Dominic…and even AC/DC (just about). Anyone else got that in their English wine armoury? We think not.
Coolhurst produce the Triple Vs: all their win...2024-06-2032 minThe Maker and The MerchantWEDNESDAY 19TH: ALEX TAYLOR IEWASo far this week we’ve talked to chief executives, makers, marketers, and retailers…we now turn our attentions to competitors. Or rather, competition organisers. For the last 8 years the Independent English Wine Awards (IEWA) has flown the flag for this growing industry, and its many varied and dynamic producers.
Lee himself holds the privilege of having judged, and served as a panel chair, and multiple occasions but this time, we get the down low, the intel, the facts from the founder of this competition. Alex Taylor had his interest in wine competitions piqued by study...2024-06-1934 minThe Maker and The MerchantTUESDAY 18TH: SARAH MASSEY LYME BAYFor several years now, Lee has talked about his heroes, specifically his wine heroes, more specifically his wine superheroes. There is an equivalent to the Bat Signal in this world of English wine, and it takes the form of Sarah Massey and Lyme Bay.
We have been incredibly fortunate to grab a few minutes of Sarah’s time and here we explore her journey into wine and how she has become not only a stellar winemaker, but a serious role model for young women in the industry. There is much more to this conversation and we...2024-06-1822 minThe Maker and The MerchantMONDAY 17TH: JAMES HAWKINS – HAWKINS BROSIt’s all very well and good talking about the amazing producers, sites, and fruit England now has in its armoury. It’s also fun talking about marketing and comms (hear yesterday’s episode) but who is on the front lines? Who is going out into the real world of UK wine consumers and fighting the good fight to get as many great wines in front of them as possible?
We have some great retailers of wine in the UK and in today’s episode we spend some time chatting to the wonderful James Hawkins of Hawkin...2024-06-1723 minThe Maker and The MerchantSUNDAY 16TH: DAN KIRBY FLINTLike any decent minded individual we bloody love Dan Kirby. A font of wisdom and knowledge, MW student, and Brand Ambassador for Flint Vineyards. We get straight into it by asking Dan to give us the intel on Flint but the conversation quickly moves into the realm of consumer attitudes, expectations, and how we can better build comms and engagement.
With Dan’s trademark insight and wit we look into where English wine is currently and examine the opportunities for growth. All of this weaves effortlessly around what Flint do, how they do it, and wha...2024-06-1631 minThe Maker and The MerchantSATURDAY 15TH: NICOLA BATES WINEGBWho better to talk to at the beginning of English Wine Week than Nicola Bates? The Chief Executive of WineGB very kindly found time in her ridiculously busy schedule to talk to us.
Nicola talks us through the vital work of WineGB and explains the many different complex areas in which this organisation works. We assess the impact on plans of the sudden election campaign and discuss how to move forward during these turbulent times.
Nicola also explains the key areas of focus for WineGB and its members, before we go all JFK a...2024-06-1525 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM EWWTM&TM:EWW
Hot on the heels of Welsh Wine Week and the internationally* successful TM&TM: WWW Ferg & Lee are delighted to kick things off for English Wine Week. A huge celebration of all that is great about English wine. Well, not all, because we can’t fit that in. Over the course of English Wine Week we will be talking to the makers and shakers, the groovers and movers, the people who make English wine tick.
This is a dynamic and exciting scene filled with vibrance, creativity, and excitement. Over the course of English Wine Week you’ll hear...2024-06-1410 minThe Maker and The MerchantTake Your Cos And F**k O** (Tom, Paso Primero pt 2)Amazingly following last week’s debacle, Tom of Paso Primero (and Guardian snack feature) fame has returned to TM&TM Towers! At least this time he was prepared for a recording that had no plan, no understanding of how to conduct a tightly structured interview, and two presenters he described as ‘duelling banjos’.
This time we delve deeply into the wines crafted by Tom’s own hands (and jocks). Thanks to the magnificent Online Wine Tasting Company, Ferg and Lee each had 6 of Tom’s wines to taste (drink) and work through under Tom’s expert tutelage. Through the medium of these wines...2024-06-131h 03The Maker and The MerchantNot Contributing To The Science (Tom, Paso Primero pt 1)How does a Shrewsbury boy achieve fame through the medium of savoury snacks and The Guardian newspaper while simultaneously being a rock start winemaker in Spain with a cult following? All this will be explored, and much more, in Part I of TM&TM’s interview with Thomas Holt A.K.A. Mr Paso.
The winemaking genius behind Paso Primero started life as a potential kickball star before discovering booze. Or he was injured or some other excuse. Before long he was headed to University where his contributions to science have never been questioned…as it seems there aren’t any. Sudd...2024-06-061h 01The Maker and The MerchantSUNDAY 02ND: Liz @ St. HilaryWe round out our series on Welsh wines with a look to the future. While there are now many established vineyards in Wales, it is still new territory with new plantings and producers popping up all the time. One such producer is St. Hilary. Planted in 2021, their first harvest took place last year, with the first wines expected imminently.
Liz explains where the dream originated, what they planted, and their hopes for their wines, and those of the Welsh Wine industry too. Liz shares so much information and detail on the St. Hilary story you’d t...2024-06-0223 minThe Maker and The MerchantSATURDAY 1ST: Jean @ Ancre HillWe know what you’re thinking: how does a cool South African end up making wine in Wales? We put this question to Jean du Plessis, head winemaker at Ancre Hill. This is a BIG episode for such a short run time. Covering biodynamics, tisanes, making what nature gives you, how to get good fruit…passion pours out of every syllable.
So settle in and listen to the brilliant Jean share his knowledge, stories, and insights.
@welshwineweek @welshvineyardassociation @ancrehill #WelshWineWeek #Welshwine #podcast #wine #winecast @fergelias @wineman147
2024-06-0134 minThe Maker and The MerchantFRIDAY 31ST: Andy @ VelfreyCan you believe it’s already the second Friday of Welsh Wine Week? It’s amazing how quickly time passes, especially when you’re having so much fun talking to the key players in the Welsh Wine Scene.
This adventure continues today with Andy Mounsey from Velfrey Vineyard. This ‘Accidental’ Vineyard is something of a Goldilocks place for growing vines. Andy shares the story of how The Mounsey’s initial plans were rather different, but a visit from an MW finally convinced them.
We then learn about the varieties planted, some of their viney...2024-05-3125 minThe Maker and The MerchantTHURSDAY 30TH: Woody @ MontgomeryAs we reach day 7 of Welsh Wine Week we’re fully in our stride of talking to the key players and movers and shakers of this exciting and dynamic industry. Today we head to Powys (virtually) to talk to Woody of Montgomery Vineyard. One of the most well known names in Welsh wine with great distribution Woody tells us what makes him, and Montgomery tick. From the UK’s highest vineyards to his approach to blending we learn about their varieties, location, and exercises in fine tuning.
@welshwineweek @welshvineyardassociation @montgomeryvineyard #WelshWineWeek #Welshwine #podcast #wine #winecast @fergelias @wineman1472024-05-3024 minThe Maker and The MerchantWEDNESDAY 29TH: Susan & James @ Whinyard RocksFollowing on from yesterday’s chat with a knowledgeable consumer we head back out into the fields and valleys to continue our exploration of Welsh Wine Producers. Today we talk to Susan and James from Whinyard Rocks. Their story is one of epic romance, troublesome sheep, and altitude. Quite the combination.
We learn how they came to plant a vineyard on the Welsh/Herefordshire border and just how diverse their production really is. While one of the smallest producers in Wales in terms of production (perhaps the smallest at the moment?) they have plans to gro...2024-05-2924 minThe Maker and The MerchantTUESDAY 28TH: Bethan RobertsTM&TM’s exploration of the Welsh Wine Space continues apace but this time with something slightly different. We love hearing what consumers think about wines (well, sometimes we love it) and we wanted to bring in a wine drinker’s point of view. Someone who doesn’t have the baggage of us wine professionals and get caught up worrying about pH or margin.
Bethan Roberts is one of our nation’s heroes. A GP. When she’s not busy saving lives and curing ills, Bethan enjoys a glass of wine. Particularly Welsh Wine. For some reason...2024-05-2819 minThe Maker and The MerchantMONDAY 27TH: Robb Merchant @ White CastleWho can believe it’s already Monday of Welsh Wine Week? These days are flying by so quickly, and there are so many wines to get through. Today’s episode focused on one of the biggest names in the world of Welsh Wine. From their beginnings as a postman and nurse, Robb and Nicola Merchant have become figureheads of an entire industry. From their first plantings in 2009 to crowdfunding their own winery, White Castle have achieved incredible things.
Hear their story from Robb himself as he talks about those first vines, producing the UK’s first C...2024-05-2725 minThe Maker and The MerchantSUNDAY 26TH: Gwen @ Vale VineyardOur Welsh Wine Series continues today with an interview with the amazing Gwen Davies of Vale Vineyard. Up in Denbigh (or down in Denbigh depending upon your own geographical location) Vale Vineyard has a unique set of characteristics that allow grapes to thrive. It’s not an obvious location for grapes, but that’s what makes these wines (and Welsh producers generally) so inspiring.
Gwen talks about how and where it all started, and what they’ve learned along the way (the real friends were…) Vale are another award winning producer, with their Debut Sparkling Rosé pick...2024-05-2620 minThe Maker and The MerchantSATURDAY 25TH: Lucy Alford @ The DellFollowing yesterday first episode of TMTM:WWW we’re hitting you with our second. Today we feature a wonderful conversation with Lucy Alford from The Dell Vineyard in Raglan. Planting on a family farm without much experience of wine, the Alford’s have gone on to create award winning wines. Their 2022 Rosé picked up a major trophy at last year’s Welsh Wine Awards. Not bad considering the battles fought against local wildlife.
Lucy talks about where she and her husband were first bitten by the wine bug (any chance of seeing some Welsh Carmenere?) and how...2024-05-2520 minThe Maker and The MerchantFRIDAY 24TH: Sara Hobday @ Vin Van CymruWelsh Wine Week is finally upon us. As you may know, @fergelias & Lee are fans of Welsh Wine and we wanted to highlight some key figures within this growing and dynamic industry. This is the first of ten episodes, one each day of Welsh Wine Week, and we’re starting with a bang as Lee talks to the wonderful Sara, founder and director of Vin Van Cymru. This is a fabulous wine shop and tasting room in Cardiff.
Sara talks about her introduction to Welsh wine and how she sees its development. Sara also tells us about th...2024-05-2417 minThe Maker and The MerchantAn Important AnnouncementOur regular programming has been interrupted…and for a very good reason. Tomorrow sees the start of Welsh Wine Week. A 10 day (which is a week in Wales; it is its own country and can have whatever timezone, currency, and other things it chooses!) celebration of all things vinous and Welsh.
Wanting to get in on the action, and desperate for content, TM&TM Senior Management took the executive decision that we would talk to some of the key figures within and around the Welsh wine industry. By we we largely mean Lee, as Ferg is...2024-05-2309 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: The WSTA (Miles Beale part 2)If you listened to last week’s episode you will be primed and ready for Part II of the TM&TM interview with the WSTA’s Miles Beale. We promised a more serious episode and we are delivering. Following the fun and frolics of last week, it is time to get down to business.
We open with Miles explaining exactly who the WSTA are and what is their role within the drinks industry. There is more to this body than may immediately meet the eye, and the membership encompasses a very broad range of businesses. Lee uses this as an oppo...2024-05-1655 minThe Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: Firing large guns (Miles Beale part 1)This week on TM&TM we find ourselves in The Thick Of It as we keep ourselves In The Loop with one of the key figures, no, THE key figure in the UK wines and spirits industry. TM&TM Towers is a House Of Cards (the original, not the remake), but we had to say Yes Minister when the chance to speak to the most influential person on the UK scene. We had so many questions for this individual that we only made it to Page Eight.
We are beyond privileged to say this is part I of our talk...2024-05-0951 minThe Maker and The MerchantOysters On A Business Trip (Norway part 2)You should be careful what you wish for. You asked for it. The Maker & The Merchant is now A 2 PART PODCAST! Once a fortnight wasn’t enough for you, so you’re getting us twice a week now. This here is Part II of Ferg’s Norse Saga. Like the mythical tales of old it involves merriment, danger, and dealing with wine journalists.
Ferg talks us through the Norwegian Monopoly and explains a little about how it all works. He also examines Norwegian wine culture from social attitudes and consumption to wine communication. What are the ethics of low ground cleara...2024-05-0250 minThe Maker and The MerchantNorwegian’s Would. (Episode 1)It may have escaped your attention, but Fergus has recently been on hol…working in Norway. Not only this, but he has been featuring on other podcasts in direct contravention of the strict TM&TM Charter.
Yet this is an in house issue with which you do not need to concern yourselves. In this episode, Lee asks Ferg the BIG questions; Does a Peer Gynt? What does elk taste like? Why is English wine so popular in Norway? Ferg explains the intricacies of working with the Scandinavian monopolies and explores the complex and serious wine culture to be found here.
Fr...2024-04-2553 minThe Maker and The MerchantWho you gonna call? (Dan Belmont part 2)Last week we were introduced to actor, legend, wine & cheese raconteur Dan Belmont. From his early days on the stage to becoming a leading light in the worlds of the controlled spoilage of milk and grape juice. He could have been Hamlet, Macbeth, Kowalski...instead he wrote the book on New York State Wines. In this episode we shoot straight to the heart of all things Big Apple. Dan shares his immense knowledge of these regions and we talk grapes, styles, and diversity. Lee of course brings philosophy into play while Fergus considers what English wine can learn from a...2024-04-1850 minThe Maker and The MerchantGeotrichum Candidum - PART ONE -What do The Meisner Technique, controlled ageing of milk, and New York Wines have in common? We know, it's a bit too easy this one. The answer is of course: Dan Belmont. Dan literally wrote the book on New York wines. Literally in the traditional (and best) definition of the word. From a background in the theatre to becoming a leading expert in the worlds of both cheese and wine, Dan joins us for a two part episode where we explore his incredible journey so far.
We explore his approach to acting and learn why he didn't make it in t...2024-04-1152 minThe Maker and The MerchantWhat does supreme belief taste like (vineyards of wales special)Last week on TM&TM we promised you a bonus episode. This is more like a threat, but either way, we have delivered. You get what you deserve.
Early in March (so it's a timely one) Lee bothered The Welsh Wine Showcase in London. This event celebrated the great and the good of Welsh wine and showcased the diversity, dynamism, and creativity to be found in this mighty country. From the first plantings in the 1870s to more than 70 hectares today, Wales has made incredible strides over the last few years. Strides that TM&TM are incapable of replicating; largely d...2024-04-0442 minThe Maker and The MerchantNordic StoriesYou will well know that at TM&TM we tackle the pressing intellectual questions of the day. There’s next to no prevarication in our latest episode as Fergus & Lee ask just what was Humpty Dumpty? Is the Forbidden Fruit actually a PIWI? And what connects the Tuscan Maremma with Sussex?
But it’s not all fun and games. Firstly we wish FotP Janina our best wishes as she has lost her voice (she had when we recorded this mess 3 weeks ago). Then we deal with a most serious complaint that has arrived via unofficial channels. Karen Jenk...2024-03-281h 23The Maker and The MerchantNominative DeterminismDespite what you may think about TM&TM (an you're probably right), we somehow keep getting interview with increidbly high profile, smart, and talented guests. This time around we are delighted to talk to the enormously talented, trend-setting, winemaking wonder that is Zoë Driver. Given her stature and credibility within wine, you may expect us to take things a little more seriously. If that's what you really expect, you've clearly stumbled upon this pod by accident.
Fergus inflicts his game of [guest name] Doo [guest name] Don't upon poor Zoë but in so doing manages to ge...2024-03-141h 22The Maker and The MerchantStrobe Lights and AspirinTM&TM Have long stood in admiration at the many great people who make English wine happen. It doesn't just appear magically y'know; there are people working literally *hours* to bring you the best bottles possible. We are absolutely thrilled to say that we have one of them on this episode.
In our efforts to bring you the best that English Wine has to offer, Fergus & Lee are thrilled to introduce Luke Spalding. Viticulturalist, Grape Lover, & Knower Of How To Stop Badgers, Luke brings his wit and wisdom to bear on a show that desperately needs it. From dairy related b...2024-02-291h 29The Maker and The MerchantTommy Doo Tommy Don'tFor the second episode in a row we have as a guest a proper, genuine, home grown, corn fed, English wine heavyweight. Following on from a deeply insightful interview with Ingrid Bates last time out, this time we tackle the winemaking behemoth that is Tommy Grimshaw. Yes, that's right, Tommy G of Langham fame brings the Devonshire Class which TM&TM so desperately needs.
Ferg has been honing his interview skills, and in an effort to become the new Jeremy Paxman, interrogates Tommy not through waterboarding or by shining lights in his eyes; no, Tommy is forced to endure a g...2024-02-151h 35The Maker and The MerchantIce Cold in BristolAfter months of incessant demands, outrageous riders, and Lee's ineptitude, we finally give our listening public (hashtag: Ferg's Mum) what they want. Yes, Ferg and Lee are joined by super-cool, Bristol-grower extraordinaire Ingrid Bates. After a discussion about scones we learn mroe about Ingrid's journey from Nearly The Next Sir David Attenborough to founding Dunleavy Vineyards. Along the way we cover off the genius of Tommy Grimshaw, Shed Seven's new album, and celebrity hotel riders.
Ingird talks us through establishing vineyards around Bristol, and discusses the creative scene that permeates the city. From her great labels with local musicians by P...2024-02-011h 52The Maker and The MerchantThe Maker and The MobbsWe're not completely stupid at TM&TM. We've analysed the viewing figures, done indepth consumer research, and looked at salaries. We know what isn't working and how to fix it. We've retained fan favourite Fergus Elias and binned (for this episode) Lee Isaacs, who has cost this show dearly. A mid season cast change NEVER goes wrong, and in this episode we beta test our new concept...THE MAKER AND THE MOBBS.
We are delighted that stepping into Lee's clown shoes is Great British Wine founder, Masterchef, and Encyclopaedia of all things English Wine, the mighty John Mobbs. The man w...2024-01-181h 24The Maker and The MerchantI Hear You’re Posessed Now FatherDo you want to get your new year off with a bang?
Do you value the thoughtful and reasoned input of two seasoned, rational, articulate wine professionals?
Do you want up to date pop culture references?
Then look elsewhere. The Maker And The Merchant are back! In imperious form too. Having not yet quite recovered from Christmas debauchery, Fergus & Lee tackle the big issues of the day head on. What were their best presents? What are their hopes and dreams for 2024. And just what do consumers have against mushroom shaped corks?
Amongst those hopes for 2024 is that Lee's Not Yet Co...2024-01-041h 28The Maker and The MerchantChasing zeroQuelle surpise! Ferg and Lee have actually managed to fulfill their contractual duties by recording an episode. We know, who would have thought the most basic requirment of hosting a podcast is to record a podcast?
You'll be equally surprised to know this is a topsy turvy episode. We start with Lee sharing some genuine and heartfelt thanks to a great many people before we talk up our recent competition winner, the amazing Alice. Huge thanks To Csaba at Daddy Wine Club for not just creating us a range of merch, but for sponsoring this competition. We can't wait to s...2023-12-151h 22The Maker and The MerchantDas Ist NummerwangThe moment nobody was hoping for, and perhaps feared most of all...this winter, only on a hosting site near you comes a podcast so irrelevant that almost nobody has noticed its existence. Fergus and Lee are finally reunited and continue their efforts to provide a stream of wine related nonsense.
It's been some time since our valiant cohosts recorded together, mainly as Ferg was so exhausted after their last episode he had to take a break. He did so through the medium of winemaking. Lee just faffed about and contributed nothing. Yes, he's lazy like the yeast. In a t...2023-11-231h 09The Maker and The MerchantNos Bergatu"The worst deception is self deception. Plato" Mike Boyne.
Dear listener, be under no illusion that we at TM&TM Towers do not deceive ourselves. We know that nobody is asking for more episodes or content. But we play by our own rules, not yours, and we just keep on going. Well, some of us do. On the latest episode of TM&TM, the pod's favourite host, as voted for by the TM&TM hosts, Bergus Elias, did not turn up to the recording. Apparently he's "busy with harvest.". No, we don't know either. For a deep dive into the...2023-10-191h 19The Maker and The MerchantValanceAfter a week’s delay that we’re sure no one noticed, the pod that just won’t go away returns with more deep insights, rational thought, and nuanced discussion. No, wait, it’s very much the opposite of that. Many would argue that the first 20 minutes of this episode are hard going.
What is the difference between a scarf and a cravat? What exactly defines Disney as opposed to Pixar? And just how rational is it to put Holly Valance around your bed?
In a desperate attempt to stay niche and avoid the mainstream, Ferg and L...2023-09-211h 31The Maker and The MerchantObeisance 52In a first for The Maker And The Merchant, the name of the episode appears in the audiogram. What more could a pod hope to achieve? We start with Lee dropping a bomb about one of the UK’s favourite beers; he attempts to recover the situation by talking up St. Austell’s delicious Mena Dhu stout. Whilst in the Cornwallshire he visits FotP (Friend of the Pod innit) Bin Two. Was he welcomed or politely asked to leave or arrested on site? Listen in to find out.
We reveal the time-travelling nature of TM&TM HQ and our...2023-08-311h 29The Maker and The MerchantTM&TM: Vines in a Cool ClimateWe have a TM&TM Super Magnificent Incredible Special for you. Due to our powerful connections (by which we means Ferg's phone book) we have managed to convince wine writer extraordinaire Henry Jeffreys to join us.
From his days in the wine trade drinking top notch Rioja with Oddbins to becoming a fully fleded wine writer via the medium of publishing, we uncover a little of Herny's back story. We then dive deep into his wonderful new book Vines In A Cold Climate (available from all good digital and analogue book retailers). From its inception, concept changes, to final tome, He...2023-08-171h 04The Maker and The MerchantTRIBUTETHE MAKER & THE MERCHANT: TRIBUTE
Hugely aware that TM&TM isn’t the greatest and best podcast in the world, Ferg and Lee start by discussing what happened when Descartes and Sartre walked into a bar, margins on mugs, and non-linear jazz wine tastings. Talking of tastings, Lee highlights the upcoming Grapest Hits event coming up soon involving North South Wines, Condor Wines, and Hayward Brothers. (Apologies to Hayward Bros that Lee forgot you were involved…he is being investigated by TM&TM HR as we speak)
Lee FINALLY covers off the fabulous Flavours of Spain...2023-08-101h 35The Maker and The MerchantTORTUGA NARANJAIn this episode Ferg discovers that Lee isn’t actually there. But was he ever? Stepping into the huge shoes left by Lee we have the infinitely talented and knowledgeable Janina Doyle. Already a podcaster in her own right on the excellent East,Sleep, Wine, Repeat.
Janina talks us through her start in wine, those Damascene Moments, her celebrity crush, and explains why she's always Russian...especially when it comes to getting stuck into old vines.
Fergus Elias and Janina disagree however upon her Revelation, but reconcile over a shared love of the metaphysical question: ju...2023-07-271h 22The Maker and The MerchantHandsome BenHere at TM&TM Towers we're not frightened to try something new...unless it involves ignorance, heights, or hazlenuts as we're terrified of all 3. For the first time Fergus and Lee left the confines of The Towers and were allowed to venture into the wild. To The People's Republic Of Islington they were welcomed, and with huge thanks to The Sampler, allowed to record in situ.
In front of a live studio audience, Ferg & Lee chat to World's Most Handsome Man and Face Of Hattingley Valley, Ben Ludford. Ben discusses his love of data, being a chess prodigy, and does s...2023-07-131h 16The Maker and The MerchantBetween two piersAs the show that nobody asked to return returns for yet another episode, Ferg and Lee cover some vital ground: just how many Bruce Springsteen puns are appropriate? How is Ferg's car insurance debacle playing out? What makes a good Alien film?
We explore the tricky world of Rondo briefly and think we've discovered those who have figured out the true nature of this divisive variety. Shouts outs go to Ingrid and Dunleavy and Mark at All Angels.
Think you have to be posh to be a winemaker? Ferg discusses his newest celebrity friends Joanna Lumley, Victoria Moore, and Oz Cl...2023-06-291h 21The Maker and The MerchantMORE THAN A PODCASTWe're celebrating at TM&TM Towers. Our valiant leader, who is both the brains and the looks of the pod, returns triumphantly from a trip to Portugal. Hear all about Ferg's adventures involving copious amounts of Port and seafood. Lee, who has been manning the fort, is overjoyed.
In this week's thrilling episode we go in depth on the new exciting releases from Balfour and learn a little more about Ferg's approach to making top notch, boundary pushing English still wine. We also discuss the runners and riders at the recent Wine Garden of England event which...2023-06-151h 34The Maker and The MerchantEcclesiastical CourtThe Maker And The Merchant: Ecclesiastical Court
Things have gone haywire; Fergus has gone AWOL, which leaves Lee in charge. Despite the potential for catastrophe, we have been saved at the 11th hour by the fabulous Jack Merrylees. Marketing & PR Director at Balfour, Jack has extensive experience running marketing and PR in the industry, having been the head of such things at Majestic.
Jack talks about his journey into wine, and recounts stories of just what it takes to run successful marketing and comms for a national wine retailer. He touches on the role of critics in today's industry, and the...2023-06-011h 06The Maker and The MerchantWinemaker Raised By PuffinsTM&TM returns with a...some kind of noise. Not a really loud one, just one that's disturbing enough you had to reread the opening line of the Decanter feature you were starting. In this episode Ferg & Lee face some big questions such as: Does Ferg's mum control an army of AI Bots? Just how fast is your bottling line? and should Lee return to making those terrible guitar videos? If he does, what song should he play for Fergus's BRAND NEW Bacchus?
Looking at the Wine News we examine the case of a woman a...2023-05-181h 35The Maker and The MerchantFamilyTHE MAKER AND THE MERCHANT RETURN!
Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the podcasts, TM&TM are back to spoil things, like a shark's fin in the ocean.
Ferg & Lee spend their time promoting other podcasts such as Wine Blast, Wine Flight, Eat Sleep Wine Repeat and Kermode And Mayo's take before covering off just what is being planted in Ferg's garden*. While Fergus enjoys some Slovenian dessert wine and Lee talks us through a brace of Argentine Malbecs *yawn* we tackle big subjects such as Is...2023-05-041h 28The Maker and The MerchantFromage a TroisA TM&TM Christmas: Fromage a Trois
Continuing our theme of bringing great names down to our level, and reducing their street cred to zero, we are joined by uber-special guest Libby Brodie.
We share 3 very special bottles of wine, which includes Ferg finally working out why he blind-tasted Ken Forrester's FMC when that wasn't what Bin Two sent him. Libby works her way through Karim Mussi's Alandes Paradoux Blanc and Lee doesn't even open his bottle.
We explore some key Christmas drinks statistics as well as ans...2022-12-221h 10The Maker and The MerchantCantilever MelonsWho's tasted sparkling English rosé going back nearly 20 years? Ferg has; listen as he talks through the retrospective of Balfour Brut Rosé going back to 2004.
Are Ferg and Lee any good at blind tasting? Obviously, no. But are they any good at working answers out based on evidence on knowledge? Also no.
Listen as Ferg fails to open a wine sent by Mike at Bin Two, instead opting to open something completely different. Lee at least opens the correct wine but forgets the existence of Bandol, can't identify his favourite grape vari...2022-12-081h 23The Maker and The MerchantSuitcase ClownsWe are absolutely thrilled to bring you a special wine and cheese episode, featuring the magnificent Jessica Summer A.K.A Mouse And Grape.
Mouse and Grape is a luxury online cheese and wine business that specialises in paired hampers, a cheese and wine subscription service, and corporate and private tasting events.
Using all her knowledge, tasting experience and qualifications, Jessica carefully curates her pairings using artisanal cheese and wine from independent producers, and shows her customers how to combine and enhance these heavenly flavours for ultimate indulgence and maximum enjoyment. Tod...2022-11-241h 10The Maker and The MerchantBEEP BEEPBy now you all should know about The Online Wine Tasting Club, but how much do you know about the presenters and their stories? In this episode, we ask Alex Taylor and Jamie Smith the big questions:
What is Alex's favourite cereal?
Just how long is Jamie's list of accomplishments?
What does a brand new packaging machine look like?
Listen in to learn the answers to these questions, and more, on Episode 5: Beep Beep.
2022-11-101h 13The Maker and The MerchantPhaetonWho puts the sexy into sexy? What links the wines of Australia to England's smallest vineyard and winery? Does Bum Bum yeast really exist?
We have a our first guest to answer all these questions, and more; Mike 'Bin Two' Boyne has sacrificed his not inconsiderable street cred by spending an hour talking to TM&TM. From running one of the UK's best independent wine merchants to producing ridiculously named pet nat and skin contact Solaris via the medium of extreme winemaking calendars, Mike has done it all.
Ferg and Lee ta...2022-10-271h 03The Maker and The MerchantPloughIs big better? Why are people from the wine industry inviting Lee to stuff? How many tonnes of fruit is too many in a day? why has fergs hair moved from his head to his face and what has a plough got to do with anything? All this and more in episode 3 (please someone make this podcast end).
2022-10-131h 06The Maker and The MerchantToastie
What do winemakers eat during harvest? How good is good ordinary claret? Why has this podcast been allowed to reach episode two? Will there actually be any serious dialogue at any stage? Answers to all this and more may or may not be in episode two of The Maker & The Merchant. Only one way to find out.
2022-09-2955 minThe Maker and The MerchantNostalgiaWell, we’ve listened to the advice...and ignored it. We’ve heard your warnings, but we’re both brave and foolhardy...
The inaugural episode of the podcast that literally no-one asked for is here!
In episode 1 the boys discuss themselves (naturally), wine, and living in the wine world.
They also review a Pinot Noir from an underdiscussed region and (surprise surprise) a Malbec from Argentina.
2022-09-151h 16The Maker and The MerchantBreaking NewsA little trailer for the least anticipated podcast this week.
The Maker & The Merchant out very soon, wherever you listen to your podcasts
2022-09-0901 min