Shows
Sip with NikkiPairing Night Part 2: The Feast! With Dr. Hoby WedlerCheck out the upcoming Crush Collective Tasting in the Napa Valley on August 17th! Taste wines from podcast guest Sally Johnson Blum, including Abloom from episode 74! Get your tickets for this unique tasting experience here! In this continuation from last week's episode, I'm joined by my good friend and blind sensory guide, Dr Hoby Wedler, his partner Justin, my other half Michael and my lifelong friend Dr. Kim from Virginia. Last week we talked about some guidelines for food and wine pairing, with Dr Hoby coming at it from the scientific standpoint (with his PhD i...2025-07-2147 minSip with NikkiPairing Night Part 1: The Science of Wine and Food, with Dr Hoby WedlerCheck out the upcoming Crush Collective Tasting in the Napa Valley on August 17th! Taste wines from podcast guest Sally Johnson Blum, including Abloom from episode 74! Get your tickets for this unique tasting experience here! We're diving into the delicious world of food and wine pairings, guided by the brilliant Dr. Hoby Wedler. Hoby, who’s blind since birth and armed with a PhD in organic chemistry, brings a unique perspective that’ll have you understanding why certain flavors click while others clash. As we gather in the kitchen with our partners and my lifelong budd...2025-07-1440 minSip with NikkiI've Got This. A Personal Update from NikkiThis week I'm getting personal. While it wasn't easy and has taken me months to get here, I felt it was time to share about my Breast Cancer battle with the hopes of helping others who may find themselves or their loved ones in a similar situation. I recored my thoughts and emotions on the morning before my first chemotherapy and again that evening. And I think it's enlightening, encouraging and worth sharing. I am also scalp cooling to preserve my hair, using the Paxman system and I want to make sure people (especially women...2025-07-0735 minSip with Nikki*Special Encore 80th Episode* Seeing Flavor with Dr. Hoby WedlerI am re-releasing one of our most talked about episodes because EVERYONE needs to hear this. So if you missed it or would like a "re-visit" (as we call it in wine tasting)... I'm bringing one of our first and most popular episodes to the top of our now 80 episode catalog!I first met Dr Hoby Wedler when he led my wine education team and I through his signature “Tasting in the Dark” experience. We were blindfolded and tasting the wines we thought we knew very well, in a whole new light (or lack thereof). Dr. Hob...2025-06-3056 minSip with NikkiOrange is the New White? Your Crash Course In Orange WinesIf you'd like to be an ANGEL and Support the Podcast, you buy me a glass of wine and get a shout-out on a future episode!This week we're talking about what Orange wine is (and what it is not). Listen as we get into: The winemaking process that gives these wines their unique characteristics How these wines can surprise your palate with unexpected complexity and intriguing flavor profiles Michael and I taste three different orange wines, sharing our uncensored thoughts and reactions and thoughts on food pairingsBy the end, you'll not only understand what orange...2025-06-2332 minSip with NikkiLemon and Basil and Garlic, Oh My! Discovering Flavored Olive Oils with Liz TagamiI'm thrilled to welcome back Liz Tagami of American Olive Farmer and Lucero Oil! If you haven't listened to Episode 62, "Olive Oil Deep Dive" yet, check that one out to learn more about the beautiful oils Liz and Donald are creating in Corning, CA. They have been sold out of their flavored olive oils for some time, but they are back and I finally got to taste them with Liz! You'll hear: The unique processes behind American Olive Farmer's flavored oils and the importance of using real, high-quality ingredients in flavored oils to ensure...2025-06-1652 minSip with NikkiWhy Glasses Matter: The Making of VinVoyage with Roman SharifiI'd like to Shout out to all the ANGELS who have supported the podcast through their kind tips and donations! Thank you for buying me a glass of wine and contributing to covering the costs to create and publish this podcast! You can be an angel too! Support the Podcast This week I'm joined by Roman Sharifi, co-founder of the premium wine accessories brand Copain de Vin, based in Amsterdam. I saw their recent Kickstarter Campaign for "VinVoyage", which are groundbreaking, high-end gorgeous crystal PORTABLE and DURABLE wine glasses that you can take with you on vacation...2025-06-0949 minSip with Nikki*Special Encore Episode* Should You Judge a Wine by Its Bottle?? How to Shop SmarterI'm re- releasing on of our most listened to episodes from Jan 2024 with additional edits and bonus content!If you've ever felt a bit (or totally) overwhelmed by all of the wine bottles staring back at you from their store shelves, you’re going to want to listen in as I give you some simple hacks to help you pick the right wine each time. I’ll break down:How to decipher wine labels to look for clues to pick your perfect styleHow the bottle shape can clue you in as to what’s inside...2025-06-0232 minSip with NikkiWhat's So Super About Super Tuscan Wines?This week I'm breaking down what exactly makes a wine a "Super Tuscan", the rebellious history behind it, and why you want to explore this category of wines. You'll learn about the specific grapes used in the Super Tuscan blends and what makes them so special for wine lovers. We'll share some of our favorite Super Tuscans from Italy and explore what makes them so unique and how those wines led me to make my own Super Tuscan Inspired Blend in California. Plus, I’m super excited to introduce my mom, who’s giving her first-ever wine review on t...2025-05-2533 minSip with NikkiRedefining Rosé: How 3 Women Winemakers Are Pushing Boundaries with AbloomSpecial Announcement: If you're not already on the Sip With Nikki mailing list, be sure to sign up here to be the first to know about our Inaugural CLUB SIP Membership, Coming SOON! (And get my free wine tips cheat sheet when you do...)Episode Notes: A trio of powerhouse winemakers-Sally Johnson Blum, Molly Hill, and Ashley Hepworth—come together to discuss their groundbreaking project, Abloom, on this episode of Sip with Nikki. They're bringing a fresh perspective on the often under appreciated Grenache and their luxury rose made from it. You'll hear why they cr...2025-05-191h 00Sip with NikkiJalapeños in Sauvignon Blanc? We Tried The Controversial TikTok Trend!Special Announcement: If you're not already on the Sip With Nikki mailing list, be sure to sign up here to be the first to know about our Inaugural SIP Membership, Coming SOON! (And get my free wine tips cheat sheet when you do...)Episode Notes:I recently learned about a viral TikTok trend where frozen jalapeños meet Sauvignon Blanc. Curious? So were we! Michael and I decided to give a go and taste-test three different Sauvignon Blancs from around the globe before and after adding frozen jalapeño slices to each... Spoiler: th...2025-05-1228 minSip with NikkiWine Trends and Unexpected Gems, with Winemaker Sally Johnson BlumIf you're not already on the Sip With Nikki mailing list, be sure to sign up here to be the first to know about our Inaugural SIP Membership, Coming SOON! (And get my free wine tips cheat sheet when you do...)Episode Notes: My good friend, Winemaker Sally Johnson Blum (SJB) is back and she has been busy! We're getting into her exciting new ventures, including her own small wine brand, Stereograph (launching soon) and her consulting firm, SJB Winemaking, where she's crafting wines for various clients across California and Washington. ...2025-05-0546 minSip with NikkiDisney Deliciousness: Where to find the Best Bites and Drinks at Walt Disney WorldIf you're not already on the Sip With Nikki mailing list, be sure to sign up here to be the first to know about our Inaugural SIP Membership, Coming SOON! (And get my free wine tips cheat sheet when you do...)Show Notes: If you think a visit to Walt Disney World (or Disneyland) means days of chicken fingers and churros... think again! While those classic park snacks are fan favorites, the food (and wine) scene in the parks and resorts is no joke! I am am HERE. FOR. IT.It isn’t ju...2025-04-2836 minSip with Nikki*70th Episode Encore Special* Wine Haters Welcome, with My Friend Heather (who doesn't like wine)If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine and I’ll give you a shoutout on a future episode!Not everyone loves wine. I know this. And while it’s hard for me to relate, I can respect it. For our 70th Episode, I'm re-sharing one of our most listened episodes to date!I Last year, I sat down with my friend Heather, who’s not exactly a fan of wine (she calls it "rotten juice"). She wanted to learn more about what all the hype is about. You’ll...2025-04-2155 minSip with NikkiMerroir and Terroir? The Surprising Parallels In Fish and Wine! With Sena Wheeler of Sena SeaHi Friend! Welcome to this week's party! If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!The Scoop:We are diving into the world of wild Alaskan salmon (See what I did there!) with my guest Sena Wheeler. She and her husband Rich own Sena Sea, a company dedicated to delivering fresh, sustainably caught seafood right to your door. Listen as we laugh and learn from each other about the craftsmanship and similarities behind both fishing and winemaking. ...2025-04-1455 minSip with NikkiDo You Know Vermentino??? Your Perfect Pairing GuideIf you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy Nikki and Michael a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!We’re diving into the world of Vermentino! As spring unfolds, it’s the perfect time to explore this refreshing white wine that’s ready for its perfect pairing on your table! I'll catch you up on everything you need to know about this lesser know Italian white grape and then Michael and I turn traditional food and wine pairing on its head. Instead of picking a meal and then choosing a wine...2025-04-0726 minSip with NikkiHooray for Viognier! A Wine with POWER and FinesseIf you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy Nikki and Michael a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!Alright, Sippers... this week, I'm breaking down one of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITES: Viognier! It's unfamiliar to many wine drinkers and if you're one of them, you're missing out!It's such a versatile white wine that pairs beautifully with a range of dishes: from the traditional Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes (my family) to spicy food, cheeses and so much more!What you'll hear:A fun way...2025-03-3129 minSip with NikkiA New Wine Movement Has Started... Are you IN?Wine is more than just a beverage; it’s a catalyst for connection, a way to bring people together and share experiences. This week, I'm excited to invite you to join in on "Share and Pair Sundays", a campaign that encourages you to invite friends over to enjoy good food and wine together. (sounds simple, cause it is).Similar to the Come Over October initiative this past fall, it also emphasizes that it’s the moments and connections around food and wine that can bring us the most joy and fulfillment.In this episode, I'm expl...2025-03-2431 minSip with NikkiWhat's Wrong With My Wine? Identifying Wine Flaws Without the DramaIf you'd like to Support the Podcast, like listeners Lisa an Greg, you can buy Nikki and Michael a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!Have you ever been out, taken a sip of your favorite wine only to find it tastes off... but you're not sure why or what to do? I'm unpacking the three main culprits that could be ruining your glass. Think: cork taint, volatile acidity, and oxidation. I’ll share a quick and easy top on how to spot these issues and how to address them wi...2025-03-1714 minSip with NikkiSip Spotlight: A Sexy Santa Barbara Sparkler!During our recent road trip down to Southern California, Michael and I explored the hidden gem of Santa Barbara's wine scene, which is often overshadowed by Napa and Sonoma Wine Country. We taste a unique sparkling wine that brings a refreshing twist to any occasion, perfect for those times when you need a little sparkle in your life. (Michael!)We share what the heck is Fizzy Riv and why you need it in your life!Check out Margerum Wine Company here! and follow them on InstagramVisit American Olive Farmer Here and use code...2025-03-1015 minSip with NikkiChef's Counter Magic: A Taste of Disney's Napa RoseI’m sitting in the middle of Disneyland, the happiest place on Earth, and I can’t help but share what we experienced last night! Michael and I are on a road trip from Sonoma County, and let me tell you, our first stop was nothing short of magical. The culinary experience we had at the Napa Rose Restaurant in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa was out of this world! I woke up with my travel mic in hand, ready to dish all about our AMAZING dinner. It was the Chef’s Counter experience, and trust me...2025-03-0317 minSip with Nikki*Encore Special Re-Release* Olive Oil Deep Dive, with Liz TagamiIn this special Encore Episode, we dive deep into world of Olive Oil, led by the incredible Liz Tagami. She's a 6th generation Californian, who has been involved in defining and nurturing the Lucero Olive Oil brand for over 16 years. She’s a specialty food and cooking equipment industry veteran with 4 decades of international business experience. She and her husband, Donald, now own the Lucero brand and American Olive Farmer website and marketplace for all things olive oil related!We talk about:How a good olive oil can significantly benefit your healthThat the mediterranean diet is all a...2025-02-2457 minSip with NikkiWhy Do We Love Sangiovese? A Super Special Sip SpotlightWe’re exploring the ins and outs of this fabulous Italian grape, why it deserves a spot on your table, and what dishes it pairs perfectly with—hint: think delicious fresh pasta and rich tomato sauces. Plus, I’m bringing in my other half, Michael, for an exciting tasting of our 2022 Sollevato Sangiovese that we’ve been waiting to uncork. Here's what you'll hear:Why Sangiovese is a very versatile grape that pairs perfectly with a wide range of foods. I share why, of all the grapes in California, we chose to make this type of wineThe...2025-02-1734 minSip with NikkiThe All American Wine Story, with Ali Smith Story-Part 2 In Part 2 (a continuation from last week's episode), I'm chatting with Ali Smith Story of Smith Story Wines, who shares how her handsome and intelligent doodle inspired a heartwarming initiative called Socks for Sandwich!You'll also hear about: This delightful backstory of their dog, Sandwich, and how his quirky name brings joy to many. Her remarkable journey as a breast cancer survivor and how it sparked her passion for helping others through her "Brave" label. Some Listener Questions where we get to hear Eric Story's insights into managing a business with a spouse and the need...2025-02-1038 minSip with NikkiThe All American Wine Story, with Ali Smith Story-Part 1I'm finally sitting down with the inspiring Ali Smith Story from Smith Story Wine Cellars in Healdsburg, CA! Ali shares her journey from TX to CA and the unique story behind launching the first ever fully crowdfunded winery. You’ll hear about how she and her husband Eric approach winemaking in a way that emphasizes supporting family farmers and growers and using old-world techniques.You'll hear about: How Ali and I met and bonded over two of our favorite common loves The importance of following one's passion and the connection between wine and community How eloping to...2025-02-0339 minSip with NikkiDemystifying Wine Myths with The Wine Coach, Laurie ForsterPour yourself a glass and listen in as Laurie Forster (aka The Wine Coach) and host Nikki Lamberti dive into the demystification (is that a word???) of wine. It's an engaging discussion filled with tips, personal anecdotes, and a shared passion for making wine enjoyment accessible, fun and FUNNY for everyone.They explore why many people feel intimidated by wine, discussing common misconceptions, including: The myths surrounding sulfites in wineThe relationship between wine color and qualityLaurie shares her journey from a wine novice to a wine coach, emphasizing that wine should be fun and approachable. The...2025-01-2741 minSip with NikkiSpecial: From Ashes to Action: Essential Tips for Fire Survivors and SupportersThe episode is a poignant reminder of the human spirit's resilience in the face of disaster, as Nikki and her sister Amanda, an LA resident, share their insights on rebuilding lives and communities after wildfires. They dive into the emotional complexity of losing a home (which Nikki and Michael experienced in 2017), the struggle to accept assistance, and the importance of connecting with others who have faced similar challenges in order to move forward and rebuild.With a focus on actionable advice, from finding long-term rentals to organizing community support, the episode serves as a guide for those...2025-01-2050 minSip with NikkiGoing No/Lo? Our Uncensored Tasting of Non and Low Alcohol WinesThe rise of NOLO wines (non-alcoholic or low-alcohol alternatives), is attracting attention in the beverage industry. Listen in as Michael and I and our good friends and fellow wine industry professionals, Hoby and Justin, taste through sparkling, white, rosé and red non-alcoholic wines and share our unfiltered responses with each other! Learn about the different methods used to create non-alcoholic wines, preserving flavor during alcohol removalHow are de-alcoholized wines different from the sparkling grape juice we were all served as kids during the holidays?Can Nolo wines fully replace traditional wines, or are they just enjoyable alternatives?2025-01-1343 minSip with NikkiA (Virtual) Taste of our Epic Razza Pizza ExperienceIf you missed last week's episode about Dan Richer and Razza Pizza in Jersey City, NJ, listen to that first and this will make way more sense! Click here to listen. Pull up a chair with my family and I at the amazing Razza Pizza and listen as my friend and owner/chef/author Dan blows us away with :His homemade cultured butter topped with CAVIAR!2 different expressions of his world-famous bread and an explanation to my nephew Aidan's great question about how they are different!Our pairing with Dan's special Pét Nat Collaboration with a...2025-01-0624 minSip with Nikki*Encore Anniversary Special* New York Times Best Selling Author Dan Richer of Razza PizzaIt's Sip With Nikki's One Year Podcast Anniversary AND the last Episode of 2024! In honor of both, I'm sharing an encore release of our very first episode, with a new intro and teaser for next week!My guest in our first episode was Dan Richer, a fellow Matawan, NJ born chef and owner of Razza in Jersey City, which was named Best Pizza in North America by "50 Best". He’s the author of the New York Times Best Seller, “The Joy of Pizza” my go-to book for at-home pizza making! With 5 James Beard Nominations under his belt, Dan ha...2024-12-3049 minSip with NikkiTasting the Unfinished Magic...A Sneak Peek into our Sollevato Barrel TastingIn last week's Episode (did you listen?), you met my good friends "English Anne", Joan and Erika as we did a fabulous tasting at Tres Sabores Winery in St Helen, CA led by fellow wine educator Jim Olmos. This week you are hearing the second part of our visit as we pulled 3 of my unfinished 2023 Sollevato wines from the barrel to taste them mid-way through their journey. I was excited to share my "babies" with this special focus group and their reactions are genuine, interesting and insightful! Listen as we talk about: ...2024-12-2325 minSip with NikkiOur Zin-Centric Tasting at Tres Sabores WineryIf you listened to last week’s episode, you heard me dispel some myths around Zinfandel and sing this grape’s praises! This week you’re coming along to a Zinfandel-centric tasting at the beautiful Tres Sabores Winery in St Helena, CA. Tres Sabores is a boutique organic winery owned by winemaker, Julie Johnson and they are celebrating their 25th year making gorgeous wines in the Napa Valley.Join my dear friends Anne, Joan, Ericka and I, as our wine educator, Jim Olmos, shares Zinfandel in 4 different and exciting wines. You’ll hear their reactions and the s...2024-12-1632 minSip with NikkiZinfandel: What It Is, What It Isn't and Why You Should Be Drinking ItWhen you hear “Zinfandel”, what do you think of? A bubble gum sweet pink wine? A jug wine? Today we’re quickly setting the record straight with what Zinfandel (aka America’s Grape) IS and what it ISN’T.What you need to know about this sometimes mis-understood grapeWhy you should be drinking it and what to expectGreat pairing recommendationsCheck out this cool video all about Zinfandel! Nikki’s Favorite ZinsTres Sabores Storybook MountainT-VineLambert BridgeRamazzottiDid you know I make my own wine here in Sonoma County? My 2021 Sollevato Sangiovese is...2024-12-0919 min
Italian Wine PodcastNikki Lamberti | Voices with Cynthia ChaplinWelcome to Episode 2177, in which Cynthia Chaplin interviews Nikki Lamberti in this installment of Voices on the Italian Wine Podcast. Nikki Lamberti is a certified wine professional (CWP), educator and owner/winemaker based in Napa Valley. About today’s guest:Nikki Lamberti is a dynamic and entertaining Certified Wine Professional (CWP), wine educator and owner/winemaker of a boutique wine brand in Sonoma County, CA. As a New Jersey native, she earned a BS in Environmental Science from Rutgers University before working in animal husbandry and conservation education for the Disney Compa...2024-12-0441 minSip with Nikki*50th Episode Special* Wine, Wit and Wisdom, with Master Sommelier George MiliotesFor our 50th Episode, I knew I wanted to do something extra special. So Michael and I flew to Orlando, visited Walt Disney World and got to spend time with George Miliotes of Wine Bar George. George has been on my "list" as a dream guest since starting this podcast, and with a little faith+ trust + pixie dust, dreams can come true!In his Library room on the second floor of Wine Bar George, we got in to: How and Why he become one of 281 Master Sommeliers in the world What a train-wreck a holiday table...2024-12-0257 min
The Sipping Point: Wine, Food & More!Sollevato Wines & Thanksgiving Wine PairingsSummaryIn this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster shares her top wine picks for Thanksgiving, including a white wine, a sparkling wine, and a red wine. Laurie Forster also interviews Nikki Lamberti, a former Disney employee turned wine educator and entrepreneur. They discuss Nikki's journey from the East Coast to Napa Valley, her passion for wine, and the creation of her own winery, Sollevato Wines. The conversation also delves into the tasting of Nikki's Sangiovese, the branding of her wine, and her podcast, Sip with Nikki, which emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. The...2024-11-2730 minSip with NikkiAccidentally Championing Turkish Wines, with Andrea LemieuxAndrea Lemieux is a Michigan native who found herself on a "temporary" assignment in Istanbul… and 12 years later she is still there championing Turkish wines and the people and the history behind them. Episode Highlights:How the country is embracing and reviving its native grapesI taste my first ever Turkish wine-hear my reaction!The rise of women in wine in a Muslim dominant countryWhat American foods she misses the most and can't getting TurkeyTips for transporting 12 bottles of wine in a suitcaseLinks and Resources:Get Andrea's book the Essential Guide to Turki...2024-11-2549 min