Sip & Grow The Podcast
Welcome to Sip & Grow the Podcast, where we have unfiltered conversations with host Nicole Di Pasquale while exploring and tasting different types of wines from around the world. Join us as we embark on a journey of learning how to understand each of the wines unique flavors while discussing our experiences, struggles, life, entrepreneurship and more! Welcome! My name is Nicole and I created this podcast in hopes of inspiring you to learn and grow with me through the world of awesome wines. If you are just getting into wines or are a seasoned expert, this is a safe space for all. I really just want to create a simple and easy way for you to learn all about wines while trying to encourage you to follow what you are truly passionate about. This is a podcast for knowledge, growth, motivation, support and, most importantly, enjoying ourselves in the process. Please note that Sip & Grow the Podcast is intended for mature audiences of legal drinking age in their respective countries. Our discussions revolve around the art and science of wine tasting, the cultural significance of wine, and the appreciation of its craftsmanship. As a responsible host, Nicole would like to emphasize that she does not condone or promote underage drinking. This podcast is based in the United States where the legal drinking age is 21. She strongly encourages all listeners to adhere to their local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply curious about the world of wines, Sip & Grow the Podcast is the perfect companion for your sensory exploration. So grab a glass, savor the aromas, and join us on this insightful and delicious adventure! The content provided in Sip & Grow the Podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the wine industry is constantly evolving, and individual experiences may vary. We recommend consulting certified wine experts or professionals for specific inquiries or concerns. By listening to Sip & Grow the Podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, and producers of this podcast shall not be held liable for any actions, decisions, or consequences resulting from the use or interpretation of the information provided. Drink responsibly, be mindful of your limits, and always prioritize your health and well-being. Sip & Grow the Podcast is a production of Serene Illumination LLC. For more information and updates, visit our stan store at https://stan.store/nicoledipasquale or our socials @sipandgrowpodcast.
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EPISODE 100
08/08/2025
EPISODE 100
We made it to the hundredth episode!!! Overall, super grateful to continue to bring you all these episodes and excited to see the podcast continuously grow. I am just out here having fun, tasting delicious wines and bringing you the knowledge I learn on a daily basis when it comes to the industry and production sprinkling in fun, life, travel, business, etc. Today’s producer is from the Northwestern part of Italy in a town called Valle D’Aosta, which borders France and Switzerland lying on the western alps. I love the fact that it is a family run vineyard and winery, fully organic and that they implement sustainable practices to ultimately create the best wine they can while supporting the environment. Tune in now to get all the details on this wine and producer. I hope you enjoy this one… Cheers to continuing to have fun on here discovering and drinking amazing wines around the world. 1:11 - 100th episode 1:25 - Expressing gratitude 2:55 - THANK YOU 3:35 - Introduction to the wine 4:00 - Pinot Noir from Valle D’Aosta 5:10 - Western Alps 6:25 - 16th Century migration 7:05 - 1960’s Grosjean was born 7:25 - Hand harvest 8:25 - Organic + Sustainable practices 10:30 - Olfactory analysis 11:25 - Tasting notes 13:33 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: 2023 Grosjean Pinot Noir $44 (Eataly) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Granacha under $10
07/30/2025
Granacha under $10
Spanish wine under $10… another Trader Joe’s find. I want to make it a point to bring on different wines at different price points and also find the perfect day to day wine that won’t break your bank. Today’s wine is from a town in Aragon, Spain called Calatayud. This wine region is known for big and bold red wines mainly made from Granacha grapes. Granacha is one of the most widely distributed grapes in the world and is the second most planted grape in Spain. Tune in now to taste this Granacha with me. Hope you enjoy this episode. 1:25 - Wines under $12 2:05 - Intrigued by the bottle 2:33 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:54 - One of the most popular grapes in the world 3:50 - Where did Granacha originate? 4:25 - Cannonau 4:55 - Wine region in the southwest part 6:25 - You can never have enough wine 7:07 - Visual analysis 7:25 - Olfactory analysis 8:15 - Tasting notes 9:45 - Rating on the wine Today’s wine: 2023 La Sonriente Granacha $8 (Trader Joe’s find) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Pinot Noir from Oregon
07/23/2025
Pinot Noir from Oregon
Willamette Valley, Oregon is well known for producing Pinot Noir in Oregon. I am very particular about my Pinot Noirs, as you may know, so this one will be judged harshly. As I open up this Pinot Noir from Oregon I get into my fairly new transition into a new company. I am doing the same thing just in a different territory. I am so grateful to be able to continue bringing podcast episodes to life and I am excited for whats to come. Remember, “When you act out of present-moment awareness, whatever you do becomes imbued with a sense of quality, care and love. Do not be concerned with the fruit of your action. When you just give attention to the action itself, the fruit will come of its own accord.” Tune in now to see if this Pinot from Oregon is worth it. 1:20 - Intro to today’s wine 1:50 - Life transitions 3:20 - Willamette Valley 4:30 - Started a new job 5:20 - Being surrounded by like-minded people 8:05 - I am so grateful for the podcast 8:28 - God plants seeds 9:20 - Be present in the moment 10:30 - Visual analysis 11:11 - Olfactory analysis 11:30 - Tasting notes 13:10 - There’s no complexity 14:22 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: 2023 Argyle Pinot Noir $28 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Cabernet Franc from Mendoza
07/09/2025
Cabernet Franc from Mendoza
Antigal Winery & Estates is one of the oldest wineries in Mendoza, Argentina. One of their most well known bottles is the UNO Malbec. Today, I open up their 2019 Aduentus Cabernet Franc to give a try. I give you all the details on this wine while getting into the importance of being present and how we should always do things that inspire us to keep our creative flame alive. Recently, I went to an interior design event where I was reminded about how important it is for us to be truly engaged in each moment as it can be powerful and transformative in our day to day habits. Anchoring yourself to be present in each moment allows you to truly take in what is happening in the now. This can lead to making better decisions, building deep and meaningful connections and ultimately helps build a deeper sense of gratitude and joy for what each moment truly brings you. I hope you enjoy this one! 1:15 - Liquor Warehouse 2:05 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:22 - Oldest wineries in Mendoza 3:50 - Aging potential for this wine 5:15 - Interior design background 6:45 - Holistic interior design community 8:30 - Comfort + presence 9:55 - Igniting creativity 11:30 - Visual & olfactory analysis 12:05 - Tasting notes 13:50 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Antigal Winery & Estates Aduentus Cabernet Franc 2019 $30 (Liquor Warehouse West Palm Beach) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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One bottle, eleven grapes
07/02/2025
One bottle, eleven grapes
Skin contact wine made from 11 different grapes… yes please! I found this wine at trader joe’s for $12 and had to try it out. This is made up of 34% Chenin Blanc, 18% Pinot Gris, 12% Colombard, 9% Xarello, 8% Verdelho, 6% Vermentino, 3% Gewurtztraminer, 3% Semillon, 3% Trousseau Gris, 2% Riesling and 2% Malvasia. Skin contact wines are natural wines known as low intervention wine because of the way it’s made. Basically, it’s producing white wine like red wine. What that looks like is fermenting white wine grapes with the skin and seeds which ultimately gives it that amber / orange color. I am on the journey of finding the best wines for this summer. Tune in now to get all the details on this orange, skin contact wine and see if it’s worth the buy. 1:40 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:22 - Minimalistic labeling… we love that 3:15 - 11 different grapes 4:44 - What is skin contact wine? 5:10 - Carotenoids 6:25 - Visual analysis 7:10 - Olfactory analysis 7:40 - Tasting notes 9:12 - Foods I’d pair this with 9:40 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: 2023 Slice White Wine $12 (Trader Joe’s find) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Central Maipo Cabernet
06/26/2025
Central Maipo Cabernet
Maipo Valley in Chile is considered the “Bordeaux” of South America. Within the Maipo valley there are three sub regions known as Alto Maipo, Central Maipo and Pacific Maipo. I get into detail about each of the sub regions and the wine we open up today is actually from the Central Maipo area which is known to be the oldest winemaking area in Chile… aka the birthplace of Chilean viticulture. “Convenience requires no effort” is my story time topic as I open up this Cabernet to try. It’s so important to take your time on things and put in the effort in order to reap great rewards. The benefits of putting in the work and taking your time on things you want out of life will, in the long run, be worth it because convenience avoids discomfort but discomfort is where growth lives. Having integrity requires effort, sacrifice and the willingness to face hard truths. Don’t take the shortcut, don’t do what’s convenient. Be conscious, intentional and choose what actually matters in order to get long-term results/rewards. Tune in now to get all the details and taste this Chilean Cabernet with me! 1:15 - Bordeaux of South America 3:05 - Three sub-regions of the Maipo Valley 4:55 - Mountain like climate 5:15 - First place to have viticulture in Chile 6:06 - Pacific Maipo 9:05 - “Convenience requires no effort” 11:55 - Benefits of putting in the work 12:30 - Visual & olfactory analysis 13:20 - Tasting notes 15:11 - Rating on the wine Today’s wine: 2022 Perez Cruz Cabernet Gran Reserva $18 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Summer Time Pinot Grigio
06/18/2025
Summer Time Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio from Veneto, Italy located in the Alto Adige region. This particular family has been growing vines in the Northeast of Italy since 1607. Their philosophy is to respect nature, grapes, territories and people living in them. I love that they are all about sustainable practices and producing high quality wines. What intrigued me about this one was the fact that it is produced with long maceration on the skins giving the wine a beautiful amber, rose gold color. These Pinot Grigio grapes are specifically cultivated on a hill on the Adige valley in Italy called “Colle Ara”. Here they have great sun exposure and ideal temperatures for producing the perfect Pinot Grigio. Tune in now to get all the details on this delicious summer wine. 2:18 - Introduction to today’s wine 4:00 - Northeastern part of Italy 4:17 - Producing wines since 1607 4:55 - Long maceration on the skins 5:55 - Pour the wine 6:25 - Olfactory analysis 7:05 - Tasting notes 7:48 - Acidic wine 8:55 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: 2023 Pinot Grigio Albino Armani $23 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Different perspectives, same results ft. a red blend
06/11/2025
Different perspectives, same results ft. a red blend
Pinot Noir - Malbec blend…. Let’s try it out! In my Graziano’s market quest, I came across this red blend and was immediately intrigued. This producer is known for high altitude wines and I love the story behind how this label was created. Five friends that love wine basically created Gen del Alma to keep on making awesome wines that are delicious! Coolest thing about today’s wine is that they leave it in a concrete vat for six months before bottling and releasing the wine. I get into the Summit of Greatness I attended back in 2023 and how it really changed my perspective and lit a fire in me to continue going after my goals and dreams. One of the most important things that stuck with me from that summit was a story that was shared in regards to a black fly. When you are in a rut or feel stuck in your life, are you taking a step back and looking at the full picture? Or are you trying so hard to get through your set perspective that you don’t see other options? Are you hyper focused on the wrong perspective? There are multiple ways of getting to your end goal and sometimes we are so hyper focused on one way when there are multiple ways to get to the same result. Tune in now to get the full details on this wine, the producer and sit in for a good story time on how we can get out of our own way and get to the next level through a different perspective. 1:50 - Intro to today’s wine & producer 2:50 - Northern part of Uco valley 4:50 - Carbonic maceration 5:25 - Concrete vats 6:35 - Summit of Greatness, Lewis Howe 7:50 - Hardest emotion to experience = disappointment 9:22 - Our experiences teach us something 9:45 - Visual analysis 10:08 - Olfactory analysis 10:50 - Tasting notes 12:00 - Foods that go well with this wine 12:25 - Rating of the wine 13:15 - The story of the black fly 14:45 - Different ways to get the same result Today’s wine: Gen del Alma Malbec - Pinot Noir 2020 $20 (Bought at Graziano’s market) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Appassimento Technique
06/04/2025
Appassimento Technique
I came across a red blend from Argentina that uses the appassimento technique. The most known wine for using this method is Amarone (from Italy) but this is the first time I try this style wine from another country. Today’s blend is made up of 45% Malbec, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Bonarda and 5% Cabernet Franc. I dive deep into what this process of appassimento means and give you insight on the producer while opening up this 2015 vintage to taste. Milamore, today’s wine, is inspired by the authentic style of Amarone wine. Tune in now to get all the details and see if this one is just as delicious as Amarone. 1:15 - Intro to today’s wine 2:30 - Appassimento technique 4:22 - Naturally dried grapes 5:05 - Sustainable practice journey 6:10 - Grapes in red blend 8:00 - Visual analysis 8:40 - Olfactory analysis 9:35 - Tasting notes 11:22 - Foods to pair this wine with 11:55 - Rating for the wine Today’s wine: Bodega Renacer Milamore 2015 $30 (Bought at Graziano’s market) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Land of Wine
05/28/2025
Land of Wine
Southern Italian wines have never disappointed me and today I open one up from Calabria. This grape is called Greco and is known for it’s rich, velvety texture and aromatic bouquet. Apparently, this grape descended from greek settlers. They brought their vines and winemaking skills to this area and ever since then the land has been dedicated to producing wines. The producer I open up today is called Statti and they have been around since the 1700’s. Each generation of the Statti family has lived on their land and have played an important role in the Calabrian economy. Tune in now to get all the details on this producer, the grape and the area. I really enjoyed this white wine and hope you do too! 1:22 - Intro to today’s wine 2:45 - Greco bianco 3:24 - Land of wine 5:00 - Four tier system for wine 7:20 - Tasting notes 8:48 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Statti Greco 2022 $25 (Bought this at Graziano’s market) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Gewurztraminer
05/21/2025
Gewurztraminer
Have you ever tried a Gewürztraminer? It’s a medium bodied dry (with a sweet bouquet) white wine from the northeastern part of France. Alsace, France is known for having the best environment for this grape varietal along with the Alto Adige region in Italy. Today I open a producer that has been around for centuries in France called Lucien Albrecht. What is integrity? For me it falls along the line of doing what is right even when it’s difficultI while standing up for what you deeply believe. I get into how having integrity means building solid foundations and why doing the simple things right prepare you for the difficult things in life. Tune into this full episode now to learn about this producer and get all the details on this grape. See if this one is worth the buy. 1:50 - Intro to today’s wine 2:22 - Well known for Gewürztraminer 3:00 - Lucien Albrecht 3:45 - Visual analysis 4:18 - Olfactory analysis 5:00 - Tasting notes 6:40 - Rating for this wine 7:35 - What is integrity? 9:45 - Solid foundations are important 10:45 - Do the simple things right Today’s wine: Lucien Albrecht Gewurztraminer 2023 $25 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Rare Italian Grape Varietal & Failing Faster with Dakota Wallace
05/14/2025
Rare Italian Grape Varietal & Failing Faster with Dakota Wallace
I saved this episode for a rainy day and funny enough it’s been raining a lot this past week. This is part two of when I was in Lincoln, New Hampshire with my good friend Dakota Wallace. We opened up an Italian wine made primarily with the Ruche grape varietal (this trip was the first time I had tried this wine). This is from the Piedmonte region and it’s an exclusive wine because the Ruche grape has limited production due to only 125 acres of this grape being planted in the region. It’s a rare grape and at one point was nearly extinct but has experienced a resurgence in recent years. I get into the details behind this wine as we open it up and taste it while diving into my ski rental adventure. We get into the topic of mentorship and confidence while talking about how Dakota will be helping me learn how to ski for the first time. Fear of failing, anxiety, expectations, experiences, internal dialogue, etc. we get into conversation involving all these things in our day to day life and how we deal with it. Release the fear of failing and put in the reps to see where it gets you. Remember, it’s only failure if you stop trying. Hope you enjoy this episode and wine. 1:15 - Intro to guest on podcast 4:15 - Quilting & knitting 5:05 - Intro to today’s wine 7:00 - Limited production 8:05 - How do you maintain the DOCG certification 10:20 - Olfactory analysis 11:55 - Tasting notes 12:22 - What we would pair this wine with 13:40 - Skiing for the first time 15:05 - The difference between teaching & mentoring 17:00 - Enjoying silence & confidence 19:20 - Anxiety vs. anxiousness 22:25 - Expectations we put on ourselves 27:00 - Release the fear of failing 31:00 - The only way to get better is to start 35:00 - Is failure a part of success? 37:30 - Consistency is key 41:15 - Dakota should not be allowed to date LOL 44:33 - Rating of the wine 45:44 - Not a sipping wine for Dakota 47:07 - My view on this wine Today’s wine: Crivelli Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato 2023 $29 (Bought it at Eataly) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Pouring his own path: Joe Wagner
05/07/2025
Pouring his own path: Joe Wagner
Sonoma county Pinot Noir… one of the best places for this grape. I talk about Joe Wagner, a very well known 5th generation winemaker in California. Joe comes from the Caymus family (vineyard founded in 1972), a very well know wine label in Napa and the United States. He grew up around vineyards and making wine but he always wanted to do his own thing. Joe’s first venture was creating the Meomi wine label which took off well in the states. Eventually he sold this label to Constellation Brands in 2015 and launched a new label called Copper Cane. Tune in now to get the full details of how and why he created Copper Cane and try one of his popular Pinot Noirs with me. 2:30 - Caymus founded in 1972 3:22 - Black sheep of the family 3:55 - Meomi brand 4:18 - Copper Cane Label, do things differently 5:25 - Introduction to Tuli Pinot Noir 7:50 - Visual analysis 8:25 - Olfactory analysis 9:10 - Tasting notes 11:15 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Tuli Pinot Noir 2023 $33 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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What is orange wine?
04/30/2025
What is orange wine?
Have you ever been to a restaurant and seen a section for orange wine on the wine list and wondered what is that? Is it made from oranges? How does it taste? Well hate to break it to you, it’s not made from oranges but it definitely has a unique taste. Orange wine, in simple terms, is a type of white wine that has been made like red wine. It is basically skin contact wine produced by fermenting white wine grapes with their skins and seeds for an extended period. It bridges the gap between traditional white and red wines. The color skin contact wine gets comes from the compounds in the skin like carotenoids (also found in carrots). Hence, this is why it gets an amber, orange like color and that is why it is called orange wine. Tune in now as I open up this Gruner Veltliner from Austria and dive into the story behind this grape, the producer and what orange wine really means. 1:45 - Skin contact wine 2:30 - Winzer Krems 2:55 - What is orange wine? 6:25 - Open the bottle 7:30 - Visual analysis 8:18 - Tasting notes 9:45 - Great with spicy foods 10:18 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Winzer Krems Gruner Veltliner Orange 2023 $15 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Paso Robles Cab
04/23/2025
Paso Robles Cab
Jim and Bob Varner, founders of Foxglove, are devoted to the production of low intervention wines in Santa Barbara and Paso Robles. Today’s Cab is from the Paso Robles area in California coming in hot at a great price point (for California Cab LOL). Remember, low intervention winemaking means minimal manipulation and additives… literally my favorite type of wines to drink. I love low intervention wines because it’s all about trusting the grapes, the soil, the season, etc. to do it’s thing. Tune in now to hear about these two brothers who created this brand and try out this $22 Cab with me to see if it lives up to the hype and price point. 1:40 - Not a big California cabernet girl 3:25 - Central Coast, Intro to Foxglove 3:55 - The Varner Brothers 4:52 - Dedicated to low intervention winemaking 5:25 - Go with the flow 6:40 - Surrender to the present 7:55 - Trust that being you is enough 9:35 - Visual analysis 9:55 - Olfactory analysis 10:40 - Tasting notes 12:15 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Foxglove Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 $22 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Friulano - Indigenous Italian Grape
04/17/2025
Friulano - Indigenous Italian Grape
Today I try an indigenous grape from Italy called Friulano. It is most similar to a Sauvignon Blanc but tends to be more full bodied and has less acidity than a Sauvignon Blanc. The Terlato family is very well know in the industry and I go over their history and growth which has ultimately led them to creating an empire within the wine and spirits industry. Robert Mondavi comes up because he was actually very close friends with the Terlato family. It’s overall very impressive what this family has built. Tune in now as I try this grape varietal for the first time and give you my insight if it’s worth the buy. 1:11 - Liquor Land II 1:45 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:15 - Northeastern Italy 2:25 - Friulano, indigenous grape 4:20 - Terlato humble beginnings 5:00 - Robert Mondavi 6:40 - Importing fine wines 8:08 - High yield grape 10:05 - Malolactic fermentation 11:25 - Olfactory analysis 12:11 - Tasting notes 14:00 - Best price at Liquor Land II 14:45 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Terlato Vineyards Friulano 2018 $16 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Unlocking life levels + Random Wine
04/09/2025
Unlocking life levels + Random Wine
Random find at a bakery leads to either a great wine or a not so great wine LOL. Today we open up a random Malbec I came across at Milanos Bakery. This one is specifically from a micro-region called Agrelo located at the foot of the Andes in Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza Argentina. As I open up this Malbec, I get into the topic of how daydreams are not distractions they are instructions. Usually, whatever we think about most is probably what we should be doing. Everything happens for a reason and it all becomes clearer when you are fully aligned with yourself. Life is about unlocking levels and being ok with being a starter at the next level. Start embracing each moment for what it’s teaching you while using what you have learned to keep on aligning and becoming who you are. Tune in now to listen to the full episode. 1:35 - Random wine with no information 2:00 - Details on today’s wine 2:45 - Argelo, micro-region 5:25 - Daydreams are instructions 7:45 - Olfactory analysis 8:18 - Tasting notes 10:50 - Rating of the wine 11:45 - Everything is about alignment 12:40 - Unlocking life levels 14:40 - Everything comes at the perfect time Today’s wine: E Especial Class Malbec Reserva 2018 $21 (Milanos in Tamarac, FL) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Non-Alcoholic Wine
04/02/2025
Non-Alcoholic Wine
What is non-alcoholic wine (NA) or alcohol free wine? In this new episode, I open up an alcohol free French sparkling wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes and explain what it actually means when you drink a NA wine. You may think this is just sparkling grape juice but I assure you it’s not. It actually goes through the same vilification process that wine goes through, the only difference is the alcohol is taken out at the end. Tune in now to get all the details on this process called vacuum distillation and see if this NA wine is worth the buy. 1:45 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:45 - Sparkling grape juice 3:15 - Vacuum distillation 5:25 - Background on the producer 7:20 - Sauvignon Blanc sparkling wine 8:50 - Visual analysis 9:10 - Olfactory analysis 9:55 - Tasting notes 12:35 - Rating of the NA wine Today’s wine: EthicDrinks Alcohol Free French Sparkling Wine $27 (Bought at Sprouts) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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High Standards & Evolution + High Altitude Malbec @ $9
03/26/2025
High Standards & Evolution + High Altitude Malbec @ $9
Another Trader Joe’s find… we love that. This Malbec cost me $8.99 and I had to pick it up to see if it was worth the price point. I love the fact that this producer hand harvests their grapes and is grown in the sub region called Gualtallary which is the high altitude wine region in Tupungato on the Northern side of Valle de Uco located in Mendoza, Argentina. As I open this Malbec, I dive into how we can’t have evolution without discomfort. Being uncomfortable is part of the growth process and we need to remember that we are always in control of what we are becoming. Tune in now as I dive into detail on this topic and try out this Malbec from Tupungato. Hope you enjoy… and sip a glass while listening to this episode. 1:30 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:22 - Hand harvested grapes 3:45 - Evolution requires discomfort 5:55 - Life is about the journey 6:20 - Ego keeps you in the comfort zone 8:10 - Transformation 8:55 - Go with the flow 10:00 - Everyone’s growth journey is different 11:45 - Visual & Olfactory analysis 12:25 - Tasting notes 14:05 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Belhara Estate Malbec $9 (Bought at Trader Joe’s) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Stop & Smell the Roses... and this Red Blend
03/19/2025
Stop & Smell the Roses... and this Red Blend
Today I get into story time of getting a nail in my tire while I open up a wine from Avaline. Avaline was founded by Cameron Diaz and Kathrine Power and they basically source out wine growers and winemakers around the world that stick to the natural process of winemaking and practice sustainable farming. They make sure all their wines are made with organic grapes, have 0g of residual sugar and have no unwanted additives. This red blend comes from a producer in France called EthicDrinks. They offer ethical wines with a sustainable approach and place the environment at the heart of it’s winemaking. Tune in to this new episode as I try this blend and emphasize the importance of slowing down, reassessing and taking the time you need for yourself in order to find balance and move forward with full force. 1:15 - Vibin with the wine 2:50 - Organic & Natural wine brand 3:55 - Four grapes in this blend 5:10 - Nail in my tire 6:21 - Everything happens for a reason 7:25 - A sign to slow down 8:40 - Olfactory analysis 9:00 - Tasting notes 11:00 - 15% off avaline Today’s wine: Avaline Red Blend $24 15% Off Avaline Code - 15FORMARCH Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Napa Cab
03/12/2025
Napa Cab
Fun find today, $26 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Napa Valley is small in size compared to other regions but has diverse offerings when it comes to wines. There are a total of 16 AVA’s (American Viticultural Areas) / sub-appellations in the valley. Each of these AVA’s are important, allowing winemakers to differentiate their wines based on the specific terroir in which the grapes grow. It ultimately helps consumers identify and appreciate unique characteristics of each wine while maintaining the region’s reputation for producing high-quality, distinctive wines. There are strict regulations the AVA’s must stick to in order to ensure the wines meet the standards of quality and authenticity of the area. Overall, even though Napa Valley is known to have a big ego, they ultimately have a hunger for success when it comes to creating spectacular wines. Tune in now as I briefly go over the AVA’s and dive into what makes a California cabernet a “Cabernet Sauvignon” while opening up this 2020 vintage I found at Total Wine at a great price point. 2:35 - Don’t judge a wine by it’s label 3:08 - Expensive wine region in the US 3:55 - Wappo Indians 4:44 - Perfect climate for vines 5:15 - American Viticultural Areas 6:30 - Open the bottle 8:05 - Visual analysis 8:40 - Olfactory analysis 9:20 - Tasting notes 11:00 - Cabernets in California 12:28 - Rating on the wine Today’s wine: 2020 District Series Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $26 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Full Circle Moment with a White Pinot Noir
03/05/2025
Full Circle Moment with a White Pinot Noir
THE TIME HAS COME. I finally get to try a wine from the harvest I worked back in 2023!! My team at Emeritus Vineyards sent over six different bottles from the 2023 vintage and today I open up the Halberg Blanc. Emeritus Vineyards is a winery located in Sebastopol, California where they produce solely Pinot Noir grapes. I personally have a deeper appreciation for Pinot Noir because of them. Today, we get into the Halberg Blanc which is basically a white Pinot Noir. This is one of my faves because I honestly never was introduced to a white Pinot Noir until I worked with them and I think it has unique and complex flavors for a white wine. Tune in now to hear me talk about the process of making this wine as I reflect on my journey and full circle moment of working the harvest all the way to receiving a bottle I helped create delivered to me at home. If you enjoy a highly acidic white wine with crisp citrus notes coming through, you will definitely enjoy this one. 1:30 - Grateful for Emeritus Vineyards 3:10 - Amazing packaging 3:30 - Blanc made from Pinot Noir grapes 4:15 - How this blanc is made 5:25 - The run off juice 7:10 - Oxidation 8:08 - Full circle moment 10:55 - 95 points on wine enthusiast 12:40 - Visual & olfactory analysis 14:15 - Tasting notes 16:45 - Follow your passions & dreams Today’s wine: 2023 Halberg Blanc Emeritus Vineyards $45 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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"Baby Amarone"
02/26/2025
"Baby Amarone"
WE FOUND A RIPASSO FOR $12… THIS IS NOT A DRILL. As part of a well known historic Veronese winery, Pasqua wines was looking to acquire more vineyards and increase their investments. Cecilia Beretta estate was founded in the 1980’s in the wine village of Valpolicella. Ripasso is known as “baby amarone” and tends to be less expensive than Amarone because in a nutshell the leftover grapes used to make amarone are “repassed” to make ripasso. You are essentially getting the same quality of grapes but just using the pomace of the grapes used for amarone a second time to get the most out of it to make the Ripasso. I explain the whole process in this episode and go into detail as I pour a glass to try this one out from Trader Joe’s. Tune in now to get all the details on the producer, the process of making amarone and ripasso and see if you are intrigued to pick this one up at your local Trader Joe’s. Cheers Sip & Grow Fam! Hope you enjoy this one. 1:15 - Trader Joe’s journey 1:55 - Italian Classifications 101 3:35 - Valpolicella 5:10 - $12 ripasso 5:45 - Difference between ripasso & amarone 7:30 - “Appassimento” 8:00 - Two ways of drying the grapes 9:45 - Control the mold 10:50 - “Baby amarone” 12:50 - Re-passed grapes 14:20 - Open the bottle of wine 15:35 - Valentine’s Day 18:35 - Olfactory analysis 19:45 - Tasting notes Today’s wine: 2021 Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore Cecilia Beretta $12 (Bought at Trader Joe’s) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Trader Joe's Barolo
02/19/2025
Trader Joe's Barolo
$15 dollar Barolo… I had to give it a try. Known as the king of wines or the wine of kings, Barolo comes from Piedmont (northern Italy) located in Langhe and is one of the most prestigious, age worthy and collectible wines. It’s safe to say that Barolo is the “Burgundy” of Italy. Patience is the name of the game when it comes to a good Barolo because it needs a good amount of time to reach it’s full potential. Coming across this price for a Barolo at Trader Joe’s, I couldn’t resist. This episode is short, sweet and to the point. Listen to the full episode to see if it’s worth the buy. 1:05 - The wine of kings 2:22 - $15 Barolo 3:00 - Where is Barolo 3:20 - Nebbiolo grape 4:16 - Age-worthy wine 7:10 - Garnet red color 7:35 - Olfactory analysis 8:30 - Tasting notes 10:19 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: 2020 Rosa Dell Olmo Barolo $15 (Bought at Trader Joe’s) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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The Art of Aging Wine
02/12/2025
The Art of Aging Wine
I open up a Semillon from the Uco Valley in Argentina! Usually semillon is most popularly grown in France and Australia and is the main grape varietal used to make a white Bordeaux. I love this grape because it tends to be medium to full body (like a chardonnay) and brings weight and depth to the wine and when aged can bring a creamy texture with honey flavors coming through. Today we get into the art of aging wine. The earliest evidence of stored wine goes back to 7,000 year old pottery jugs buried in the dirt floor in Iran. Wine is one of the few consumable goods that can improve with time if stored properly. I talk about the importance of storing wine, the compounds in wine and how they react overtime and the simplest approach to take when storing your wine. In simple terms, all you really need to remember is that the wine must be kept in a cool, dark place. Tune in now to get the full details on how to easily age your wine and tips on how to best drink and store your favorites while I open up this semillon and give you my viewpoint on the wine. 1:30 - Intro to today’s wine 3:15 - Describing the terroir where these grapes are grown 3:55 - The art of aging wine 4:25 - Phenolic compounds 6:00 - Binding to proteins 8:18 - Polymerization 10:10 - Environment matters 10:55 - Set your wine up for success 11:25 - Support the compounds in wine 11:50 - UV light is bad for wine 12:30 - The color of wine can tell you how old it is 12:55 - Acidic wine = great for aging 13:40 - Tasting notes 16:05 - Rating of the wine 16:40 - Great experiment when aging wine Today’s wine: 2020 Mendel Semillon $26 (Bought it at an Argentinian Bakery in Tamarac, FL called Milanos) Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Be a "Cameleon"
02/05/2025
Be a "Cameleon"
I came across this bottle in Total Wine and fell in love with the label… I’ve also had other wines from this producer that are solid. Domaine Bousquet is a family owned wine producer in Mendoza, Argentina and they are known for their sustainable practices that produce high quality, organic and vegan wines. Today’s wine is from one of the many lines Domaine Bousquet has and it is called “Cameleon”. To them, “Cameleon” represents the embodiment of fine adaptation to the environment. This label symbolizes the story of the Bousquet Family, “a fourth generation that left their native France after a long worldwide search for an idyllic wine growing region”. Their story is truly magnetic because they went in search of finding what they wanted and adapted to their new environment ultimately creating an iconic and successful winery in Argentina. In this episode, we get into the family background while opening up a wine label dedicated to their story and touch on how they are one of the leading sustainable producers in Argentina. I get into what adaptability looks like for me in my life and the special conversation I had with a friend in regards to the idea of being graceful and efficient in our turnaround time when things get thrown at us from left field… aka when life happens. Tune in now to see if this $15 organic cabernet is worth the try and be open to being a “cameleon” with me. 1:25 - I am a cameleon 1:45 - Intro to today’s wine producer 3:25 - BA certified 4:10 - What “Cameleon” means to them 6:20 - Charles Darwin 7:10 - Visual analysis 7:50 - Tasting notes 9:27 - Rating of the wine 12:15 - Turnaround time 14:22 - Adaptability & understanding 15:20 - Control Today’s wine: 2023 Cameleon Organic Cabernet Sauvignon $15 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Seasonal Depression + Life Purpose with Dakota Wallace
01/29/2025
Seasonal Depression + Life Purpose with Dakota Wallace
My dearest friend Dakota Wallace is back on the podcast! She was my first guest on the show back in episode 14 and now she has returned once again to join us in tasting some delicious wine. We picked up this wine in Eataly Boston and it is from the Piedmont region in an area called Valle D’Aosta. Valle D’Aosta sits in the Northwest of Italy and borders France & Switzerland lying in the Western Alps. As we try this tasty high altitude Nebbiolo, we dive into the topic of seasonal depression and life purpose. Dakota grew up hearing the term seasonal depression and gets into what that means to her and how she maneuvers it. As you begin to unravel the parts of you that you struggle with, it’s important to understand it is always best to attack it with curiosity over judgement. What if we are all like trees hibernating because we need to grow and recuperate? What if “seasonal depression” is a moment for us to reflect on ourselves and be curious about who we are and how we operate? It’s really easy to go after your goals, dreams and ambitions when the sun is out but what is getting you out of the bed during these "hard seasons”? The “hard seasons” is where you not only learn about yourself but also are given the opportunity to see what it is you truly want and what it is you are truly are capable of. Tune in now to sit in with us on this deep conversation while we drink a solid Nebbiolo. 1:11 - Special guest, Dakota Wallace 2:15 - Intro to today’s wine 6:18 - Olfactory analysis 7:50 - Tasting notes 12:15 - Seasonal Depression 19:30 - What is getting you out of the bed during hard seasons? 22:48 - Everybody can’t be #1 24:28 - “Towards motivated” people 24:44 - “Away motivated” people 30:45 - Chaos or accountability? 32:22 - Crossroads with life purpose 39:45 - Lumberjack Jeff 45:26 - Rating on the wine Today’s wine: 2021 La Kiuva Rouge de Valle Red Blend $22 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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White Bordeaux
01/15/2025
White Bordeaux
Bordeaux is the largest fine-wine vineyard on the globe. It is a powerful wine region where complex, age worthy wines are made (we love that). Bordeaux is so complex that it can be challenging to comprehend aka Bordeaux’s are authentic af with lots of personality (we def love that haha). They have over 15,000 growers and dozens of top-class estates plus many other “lesser standing” wine producers and they all produce around 700 million bottles of wine every year. Monumental wines come from here and are some of the priciest wines in the world. 80% of the wines produced in Bordeaux are red, today I talk about the other 20%… aka white Bordeaux. I get into the white grape varietals grown in Bordeaux in which a total of 9 grape varietals are grown in this region. This is why Bordeaux wines are so special, these nine grapes not only proved themselves well suited to Bordeaux’s climate but also have been found to enhance one another when blended which is not the case for all grapes. Ultimately, this is what makes their practice and philosophy of winemaking different from Burgundy. Today’s white blend consist of the Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Tune in now to get the full details on white Bordeaux and see if you are interested in giving it a try for yourself. 1:35 - Introduction to today’s wine 2:25 - Most important wine region in France 3:16 - Three important rivers 4:25 - Nine grape varietals grown in Bordeaux 4:42 - White Bordeaux grape varietals 5:55 - Creamy texture + honey notes 7:45 - Bordeaux = blends 8:20 - What makes a Bordeaux special? 12:10 - Visual analysis 12:45 - Olfactory analysis 13:50 - Tasting notes 15:35 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Chateau Lacaussade Saint-Martin “Vielles Vignes” 2019 $20 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at
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2025 Intentions + Cabernet from Washington State
01/08/2025
2025 Intentions + Cabernet from Washington State
How was your first week of 2025? Have you set your intentions and goals yet? I open up a Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington State from one of my favorite natural wine brands Avaline. I have spoken about them before but they basically get together with wine growers around the world who align with their brand mission of having wines made of 100% organic grapes, no residual sugar present and no unwanted additives. This specific Cabernet comes from a producer in Washington State called Tagaris winery. I get into their family history and their farming practices in this episode. With the new year here, I really wanted to talk about integrity and the importance of setting our goals for the year. When you approach everything you do with genuine intention, naturally it leads to actions grounded in integrity. Where your focus goes, your energy flows and how you do one thing is ultimately how you do everything. I really encourage you to take a moment to think about the goals you want to reach for the year, write them down and start taking little actionable steps towards them. I promise you, you will surprise yourself. Tune in now as I talk about Avaline, give you some background on Tagaris winery and get into the nitty gritty of setting your goals for the year. Let’s see if you like this Cabernet from Washington State. Cheers to 2025! 1:40 - Intentions 2:25 - Introduction to today’s wine 3:45 - My critique about the brand 4:35 - Making wine since the 1300’s 5:05 - Drip irrigation system 6:05 - Other sustainable practices 7:12 - Visual analysis 7:25 - Olfactory analysis 8:10 - Tasting notes 9:30 - Rating of the wine 11:40 - Do everything with integrity 13:35 - Having self-awareness 15:25 - Everything is connected 16:25 - Vision board 17:05 - Have a system in place 18:30 - Everyday take actionable steps Today’s wine: Avaline Cabernet Sauvignon $30 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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Malbec from Chile + the importance of preparation
01/01/2025
Malbec from Chile + the importance of preparation
Latin America’s leading wine producer… Viña Concha y Toro. This producer was founded in 1883 and today exports to 135 countries. As the largest wine-growing company in Latin America, located in Santiago, Chile, they created the second most influential wine brand worldwide in 1966 known as “Casillero del Diablo”. The reason why they created this brand was because they believed the best wines were kept in a locked cellar and rumor that the devil himself lived in their cellar (hence the name translates to Devil’s locker room). Today, I open up a Malbec from Concha y Toro’s Palo Santo Vineyard located in the town Marchigue in the Colchagua valley. This area is near the coast (giving us warm days + cool nights + ocean breeze) and is about 159 kilometers from Santiago, Chile. This area is known to be the “Napa Valley” of Chile. They are known for their Cabernet Sauvignon, Camenere and Syrah’s here, that’s what intrigued me to try out a Malbec from this area. I get into the Spanish public speaking workshop I participated in at the end of December and how much I learned that day. Preparation is important and it’s up to us to be part of the 5% who are successful by taking a step each day towards where we want to go. Everyone starts somewhere and no one is an “overnight success”. We have all the information we need in order to shine bright and succeed but ultimately it’s up to us to get better each day and prepare ourselves for when the opportunity arises we knock it out of the park and succeed in any and everything we do. Tune in now to learn all the details behind this producer, how to be part of the 5% who succeed and taste this Chilean Malbec with me! 1:05 - Introduction to today’s producer 2:50 - Manchester United 3:45 - Casillero del Diablo put Chilean wines on the map 5:30 - Mediterranean climate 7:00 - Public speaking is uncomfortable 9:45 - “Overnight Success” 10:10 - It’s up to you to want to be the best 10:30 - You are your worst enemy 12:25 - Everything is a step forward 13:45 - Everyone starts somewhere 14:12 - You can’t stay at high levels unless you are prepared to be there 16:20 - Visual analysis of the wine 17:05 - Tasting notes 19:05 - Rating of the wine Today’s wine: Concha y Toro Gran Reserva Malbec 2021 $19 Connect with me on IG @sipandgrowpodcast Get your FREE Wine Aroma Wheel at Check out my Italian Wine Guide at
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