Shows
Wine MattersDoes size matter #14 Why Size Matters Host: Wendy Laureti Guest Co-Host: Deb Szabo In this episode of the Wine Matters Podcast, Wendy Laureti is joined by Deb Szabo to explore the fascinating world of wine stemware. They delve into why the shape and size of a wine glass can significantly impact the tasting experience, sharing insights and personal anecdotes. The discussion includes practical tips on choosing the right glass for different types of wine and how this can enhance the wine's flavor and aroma. Episode Summary Wendy and Deb discuss the importance of stemware in wine tasting, highlighting how...2024-08-2952 min
Wine MattersAustralia's Iconic WineIn this episode of Wine Matters, Wendy Laureti discusses the top iconic wines of Australia, with a focus on the Bluegrass wines from Saddler's Creek Wines. Bluegrass is a label that has been a part of the winery's portfolio since 1990. Wendy and her guest, wine marketing expert Deborah Szabo, talk about the different wines in the Bluegrass collection, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, blends, and sparkling Cabernet. They discuss the food and wine pairings that go well with Bluegrass wines, such as duck pancakes, venison, and roast pumpkin. They also highlight the aging potential...2024-05-2235 min
Wine MattersHow wine is made Grape to Glass #12Wine Matters Podcast is hosted by Saddler's Creek Wines owner Wendy Laureti. In this episode she chats with Brett Woodward, head winemaker of Saddler's Creek about how wine is made and the journey from grape to glass. Discover how wine is made from the vineyard planting, growing season, harvesting, fermentation, maturation to bottling. Hunter Valley growing season begins in September, and harvest occurs in January to February. Saddler's Creek Wines is located in the Hunter Valley Australia www.saddlerscreek.com Cellar Door is open daily2024-04-1926 minWine MattersWhat are clean wines? #11In this episode of Wine Matters, Wendy and Sam dive into the topic of "clean wine" to unravel its meaning and implications. Sam introduces the complexity of the term, emphasising its lack of a clear legal or technical definition. They explore how "clean wine" has become a marketing buzzword, often used to imply health and environmental benefits without substantial evidence. Sam highlights the importance of transparency in winemaking and that clean wine isn't necessarily synonymous with natural or organic wine. He explains the differences between clean, natural, and organic winemaking processes, stressing the need for consumers to look beyond...2024-04-1225 min
Wine MattersWhy buy wine from a cellar door vs large retailer?Wine Matters Podcast is hosted by Saddler's Creek Wines owner Wendy Laureti. In this episode she interviews Lewis Drayton, from Ivanhoe Wines and discuss what's the difference between buy a bottle of wine from a large retailer vs a family owned boutique winery in the Hunter Valley. Saddler's Creek Wines neighbour in the Hunter Valley is Ivanhoe Wines, with Lewis at the helm who is the 6th generation of the famous Drayton Winemaking family. He brings a rich heritage of winemaking to the podcast. As a sixth-generation member of the Drayton family, with 171 years of history in the Hunter...2024-04-0523 min
Wine MattersWhy Alternate Varieties are so hot right now Saddler's Creek Wines owner Wendy Laureti hosts Wine Matters Podcast, in this episode she talks to winemaker Sam Rumpit and about Italian Varietals and how you taste these wines at the Hunter Valley winery. Introduction: Wendy Laureti introduces the podcast episode, welcoming listeners to Wine Matters. Saddler's Creek Wines winemaker Sam Rumpit joins Wendy to discuss alternate varietals. Exploring Picpoul Blanc: Sam introduces Picpoul Blanc, a recent and exciting addition to their collection, highlighting its texture and acidity. They discuss the appeal of alternate varietals for those seeking something different from traditional wi...2024-03-2219 min
Wine MattersTasting the Italians #08Saddler's Creek Winemakers Brett Woodward and Sam Rumpit discuss the four Italian varietals in our Winemaker’s Craft ‘Single Suitcase’ collection. Nebbiolo Aglianico Barbera Sagrantino You are invited to tour Italy with us from the comfort of your home. Italian varietals have become highly sought-after in Australia, thanks to innovative winemakers and our eagerness as consumers to try new wines. Download your copy of the 'Cook Like an Italian' Cookbook https://saddlerscreek.com/italians/ The Australian wine community is well known for bei...2024-03-1110 min
Wine MattersTop 10 Wine Trends in 2024 #07Wine Matters Podcast is a hosted by Wendy Laureti owner of Saddler's Creek Wines and wine marketing expert Deborah Szabo. In this episode, they discuss the top trends in the wine industry for 2024: Return of Travel Influence: Overseas travel, particularly to wine regions like Italy, has influenced the popularity of grape varieties in Australia. Alternate Varietals: Consumers are showing increased interest in alternate grape varieties and exploring new styles beyond the traditional favorites. Chardonnay Resurgence: There's a resurgence of interest in Chardonnay, with various styles gaining popularity, from light and crisp t...2024-03-0124 min
Wine MattersExploring Hunter Valley Hero VarietiesWine Matters hosted by Saddler's Creek Wines owner Wendy Laureti and Sales Marketing Manager Adam Winder. This month Saddler's Creek Wines is featuring the last release of the Ryan's Reserve Collection and marking the end of an era. Saddler's Creek winemakers have enjoyed a decade-long collaboration with Hunter Valley Living Legend Phil Ryan, who has now retired and moved on from the Ryan's Estate. The Ryan's Reserve Collection is handcrafted in small batch and displays the unique terroir of the Hunter Valley and it's hero varieties. These are wines of outstanding quality and are synonymous with...2024-02-0221 min
Wine MattersAlways Pour Chardonnay (APC) In Episode 4 of the "Wine Matters" podcast, hosts Wendy Laureti and Deb Szabo dive into the world of Chardonnay, exploring the reasons behind Wendy's conversion from an "anything but Chardonnay" (ABC) drinker to an "always pour Chardonnay" (APC) enthusiast. The hosts emphasise the podcast's mission to share the joy of wine, with Wendy being an accidental winery owner at Saddler's Creek Wines. Wendy expresses her love for learning about wine and invites listeners to join her on the journey of discovery. The episode covers various aspects of Chardonnay, including its diversity, food pairings, winemaking techniques...2024-01-1925 min
Wine MattersWhen to enjoy that special bottle of wineTitle: When to enjoy that special bottle of wine Hosts: Wendy Laureti and Deb Szabo Summary: In this episode of Wine Matters, Wendy and Deb explore the intricacies of when to open and enjoy special bottles of wine and how to pair them with different occasions and dishes. Key Takeaways: Wendy introduces the podcast, highlighting her journey as a wine lover and accidental winery owner. The focus of the episode is on when to open special bottles of wine and what to pair them with. Deb joins Wendy as a guest for...2024-01-1218 min
Wine Matters5 mistakes when drinking Sparkling Wine #25 mistakes when drinking sparkling wine In this festive episode of Wine Matters Podcast, hosts Wendy Laureti and Deb Szabo explore the nuances of enjoying sparkling wines. They discuss common mistakes, such as underestimating the amount needed, serving at the wrong temperature, and improper storage methods. The hosts also delve into the misconception that champagne is superior to other sparkling wines, emphasizing the excellence of Australian sparkling varieties. The episode includes insights into the different types of sparkling wines, their ideal pairings, and entertaining anecdotes, highlighting the joy and celebration associated with these effervescent beverages. 2023-12-2225 min
Wine MattersHow our wine journey began #1Wine Matters with Wendy Laureti and guest Deborah Szabo What's in our glass: Tasting Saddler's Creek wines Alessandro Reserve Chardonnay, Hunter Valley Wendy and Deborah discuss how their love of wine began, their first visit to a cellar door and wine club experiences. saddlerscreekwines #huntervalley #chardonnay Welcome to the podcast Wine Matters. I’m your host Wendy Laureti, the accidental winery owner of Saddler’s Creek Wines In this podcast I invite you to join me as I share with you what I believe i...2023-12-1520 min
Wine MattersWendy IntroductionWine Matters is hosted by Wendy Laureti, the accidental winery owner of Saddler’s Creek Wines. In this podcast, I invite you to join me as I share what I believe is the true meaning of loving wine, and for me, that is bringing people together. I am no wine expert, though I am a wine lover. I love to learn and explore all things wine, including how it is made and how it is best enjoyed. What I’ve discovered is that the more I learn, the more I enjoy and appreciate wine. I would l...2023-11-3001 min