The Maker and The Merchant

We welcome back friend of the pod and TM&TM Alumnus (alumni? aluminati?) Mr Henry Jeffreys in the first of our episodes focused on PDO. What is a PDO? Are you a PDO? Are we a PDO? (PDOI? AlumiPDO?). Importantly, what is a PDO supposed to be and who does it represent. We consider it from multiple angles; does it benefit producers? Consumers? Do consumers know or even care?   When it comes to English wine and positioning it both domestically and in the export markets what is the relevance of further legislation and does it help or hinder sales? How does it fit with both a singular and wider brand? From handpicking to discussing what's in a name we attempt to start unlocking the conversation that is becoming ever more frequent in the lands of English wine.   Several bombs are dropped, by both our magnificent guest and Ferg himself...you'll be delighted to know that Lee wasn't around for this one. It was actually the only thing on Henry's rider; his equivalent of Van Halen and their dislike of brown M&Ms.   With huge thanks to Henry for his time and sharing his deep insights on the subject.   TM&TM: The Tabards, The Lanyards, The High Viz Vests, regulating your labels from Thursday morning.   #podcast #wine #winecast #Englishwine #PDO #rulesandregulations @fergelias @henrygjeffreys

Where exactly was Ferg born? Does her qualify as northern, and if so, by how much? Importantly, does it really matter? As with all good disagreements, it is resolved (virtually) in the pub. Lee talks about the best pubs of his hometown before mentioning his favourite hostelry in his adopted home of Bicester. The Plough @the_olive_tree_pub_company is surely the town's highlight. Thinking of pubs; we know the best place for a Grand Cru in Burgundy is in the middle of the hill, but does the same rule apply to pubs? Tune in to learn more.   From the nature of the pub itself we cover another vital topic of interest to our dear listener (#Fergsmum), just how many books have Ferg and Lee read so far this year? The answer will shock you.   Then comes the meat and potatoes of our episode this week, or perhaps the apple pie...we uncover some revealing statistics about the US wine industry and Ferg regales us with tales of his recent visit to promote his wines. Where did he go? Just what is the perception of English wine across the pond, and is this perception consistent across cities and states? What are the opportunities and considerations for branding and positioning of wines from England? (and Wales of course).   Ferg talks vehicles, how Americans prefer their sparkling wine, and reveals how attending his first ball game nearly lead to him becoming a middle class, degree holding Tony Montana. We also ask Ferg just how much he can lift and discuss the relevance and future of post-nominals. Which of our hosts is prouder of theirs?   Finally, we discuss voting for oneself in competition and the perfect composition of a tasting panel.   All this and, well, this, on TM&TM: The Lake Dispute uniting your states from Thursday morning.

Have you ever wondered what happens on a winemaker's stag do? Exactly how middle class was Ferg's experience and what exactly happened to his ankle? It's a bumper episode of stuff and waffle but there's a lot of ground covered (unlike Ferg's attempt to play 'Territory').   In a change to the usual order of things, Lee reads the news which smooths seamlessly into some VERY bad impressions, discussions of orphans, wild tigers, and ankle injuries, and a blow by blow account of Ferg's stag do. We ask 'Exactly how far away IS Norfolk?' (especially if you're trapped in a car with Lee). How many pints is optimum and just who has the best Macallan?    From here we finally discuss something wine related with talk of The London Wine Fair; Lee extolls the virtues again of @hatchmansfield (specifically looking at Chapoutier, Zuccardi, and some cool new cans from @villamariawines) and Ferg asks if there is a bigger opportunity for WineGB to play a part. Out of nowhere we review films and sitcoms, with a special shout out to Paddington. Sandwiched between all this and Ferg showing off about his rosé we make some official announcements.   Friends of the pod @notyetnamedwineco have some upcoming events YOU should definitely look at, one of them featuring @uk_phelps. The tremendous @thewinesociety1874 have launched some very exciting fine wine tasting kits (utilising other friends of the pod @ecosipwine revolutionary packaging). And finally it seems Lee will be out in wild hosting an event at @oxfordwinefest in September.

Well dear listener, you enjoyed last week's episode with Oneka John so much, we've asked her back for a Part II. This week we uncover the challenges and potential pitfalls of importing wine into Barbados. While there are some things more unique to this beautiful island, we uncover some universal truths about forecasting, cash flow, and the perennial Ops vs. Sales. We also raise the question once again as to whether wine is an FMCG product (bet you can't guess what we think).   From there we consider the community surrounding wine and how to make it more accessible and inviting. Oneka talks about her Perfectly Paired events and how she uses her immense market and product knowledge to invite, excite, and engage a wide variety of consumers in the burgeoning wine scene. We look at how WSET works in the classroom setting and how it can be amended and utilised in the more consumer focused arenas. Just what is quality and how can we encourage drinkers into the discussion.   There's a lot here that will resonate and shows how the challenges and opportunities echo across the trade globally.    Once again, with enormous thanks to our wonderful guest Oneka for finding the time to talk to Lee, and apologies that Ferg wasn't on hand to do a proper job.   TM&TM: Perfectly Paired Sandying your Lane from Thursday morning.   @onekajohn @vignobleswineconsultancy @fergelias #podcast #wine #winecast #Barbados #import #distribution.

Where is Ferg? Is he over there? Maybe he's over here? What we can say is he's nowhere to be found on this episode. Travelling for work or some noise. Given that the general approach of TM&TM is to record 2 friends talking, we have continued in that vein as Lee talks to one of his closest friends (we are amazed to learn he has them too), the wonderful Oneka John.   Oneka John is a wine educator and communicator living and working in Barbados. We learn how Oneka started on her wine journey, and how she had the misfortune of running into the lesser of our 2 hosts. From there we explore the culture surrounding wine consumption in Barbados and examine the macro and micro trends and how they do (or indeed do not) reflect the larger global feel of wine consumption.   There's talk of history, migration, and the way wine captures a huge amount of social, religious, and geographical changes. Oneka discuss the differences in wines to be found in local rum shacks all the way up to prestigious hotel and restaurant settings, with great insight from her time 'Selling down the trade' and extensive HORECA experience. We touch on consumer attitudes and potential opportunities (before we dive into this in more detail in our follow up episode)   Having no Ferg is rough on the pod, and we couldn't trust it with Lee, but we think you'll agree that Oneka is a fabulous guest.   TM&TM: It's Good To Wake Up In Paradise Pudding your souse from Thursday morning.   @fergelias @onekajohn @vignobleswineconsultancy #podcast #wine #winecast #Barbados

We knew you wouldn't be happy with only 1 episode dedicated to and filled with the lustrous rich tones of Christian Helsvig A.K.A. Our Man In Norway. Not wanting to lose out on that rich timbre and deep knowledge, we flew Ferg back out to @vin_oslo (with huge thanks to them once again for hosting) to continue the conversation from last week. Having touched on the inner and outer workings of the Norwegian Monopoly and interrogating some sales data, in this episode we find ways of asking similar questions in multiple ways. There's a strong cultural focus this time as we look at seasonal trends, Buckfast (still not sure why to be honest) and a truly amazing sales statistic.   We also finally bring back our favourite patented TM&TM game in the form of [guest name][affirmative][guest name][negative]. As we cast an eye to the future of wine consumption in Norway Christian shares a piece of thought and insight that is perhaps the most profound thing ever uttered on this podcast and that has wide reaching implications for us all. Ferg and Christian also finally get something to eat; tune in to find out what's on the menu.

We've heard Ferg talk about Norway, wine in Norway, trips to Norway, and brown cheese but can we really take him at his word? Is all this just the romanticism of drinking Balfour Brut Rosé whilst pining for the fjords? TM&TM Senior Leadership made the groundbreaking decision that Ferg should return to this magnificent country but gain insight and intel from a real man on the inside. Dear listener, we are delighted to introduce to you the mighty, the majestic, the outrageously handsome Christian Helsvig. Wine importer extraordinaire; Christian doesn't just set pulses racing, he's not just got his finger on the pulse of the Norwegian wine scene...he IS the pulse.   We uncover the hows wheres and why of Christian's relationship with wine and starting his business. From here we engage in a perilous quest to understand the nuances, challenges, successes, and trends of wine in Norway. What works and what's hot? Where are the opportunities and just why do the Norwegians love English wine so much? This is an episode packed more tightly than a coiled sponge but fear not...there's a sequel in post-production.   With huge thanks to @vino-oslo the fabulous wine bar for hosting Christian and Ferg during the recording and for keeping them well fed and watered. Lee remained in the hovel that is TM&TM Towers.   TM&TM: Monopoloy Monopoly Wine Monopoly Properly sailing into the inlet on Thursday morning.

What came first: wine or existence itself? The answer might surprise you. But after tackling such a huge subject in our intro Ferg & Lee head into the mysterious world of Low & No. What exactly are these beverages and who is drinking them. Importantly, why are they drinking them and does the quality measure up? We consider where these products sit now against where they were, and just where they might be going. Are you a Low & No drinker? What are your favourites? Following this we somehow veer off into the world of beer, faults, and just how much Lee's standup is actually worth. Alongside the revelation that Ferg has a new Pinot we then consider wines, regions, and countries that may not be considered 'mainstream' but are nonetheless gaining some consumer attention. Where should we be looking for 'the next big thing'? Finally we touch on the concept of natural and minimal intervention. Covering the whos the whys and thewhats Ferg & Lee look for some definitions and conclusions.

Just what is an expert? Are you an expert? Do you know an expert? What about being a lieutenant (junior grade) of commerce? Ferg opens by telling us about his new moniker before we dive into the shocking news of declining Champagne sales. Who is not drinking Champagne? Why not? And just what are they drinking instead? We explore this piece of news with the rigorous investigative standards you would expect from TM&TM and attempt to understand the changing face of sparkling wine consumption in the UK. Where are the opportunities for non-Champagne fizz and what do they need to do to further engage and excite the drinker?   TM&TM: Captain of Industry being fermented in bottle from Thursday morning.

We know the disappointment. We feel your pain. The ennui…yes, we’re back. And your worst fears have been realised: Lee has returned with us. For the one of you that missed Ferg’s witty and insightful commentary, and Lee’s…whatever, you can rejoice. TM&TM is back and being piped into your earboxes through the medium of sound. In our first episode back after a lengthy mid-season break Lee extolls the virtue of snooker (yes, it really does get off to a rocky start). Ferg takes us ‘under the hood’ of English wine. We’re not sure how that works or why he’s practicing to be an American. We move seamlessly from cats to duty rates and why they’re a brilliant thing and the best decision any government has ever made. If you’ve ever wondered what influencers and dolphins have in common, this is the show for you as we also ask ‘when is a middleman not a middleman’ TM&TM: What A **** Shambles… available to lodpod from your castloads this Thursday morning. We’re back.

We 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 England against all odds. They dive into the role of monasteries in keeping the wine flowing through medieval times and how the love for a good glass of vino persisted despite plagues and freezing temperatures. But it’s not all serious history! Expect plenty of laughs as Ferg and Jack debate the Romans’ wine-making skills and share how English wine made its comeback post-war. As they wrap up this two-part special—and the series—you'll find out why the story of wine in England is as much about resilience as it is about taste. So, grab a glass and join us for one last toast before we cork it up for a well-earned break. Cheers! 🥂

The 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 evolutionary state human attain prior to ascension. Expect random interludes when the chickpea curry arrives, a very loud cough Ferg wasn't able "to fix in post" and the regular inclusion of a rather loud German Shepherd. It's a fascinating episode leaving you, dear listener on a knife edge to hear more.  TM&TM Grubby Hole Diggers get it ere now 

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 Company. Avid listener of the show will have heard not only his name before, but also the man himself; he appeared as a special guest on our well thought out live episode at The Sampler way back when. In today’s episode Lee (Ferg’s got a problem with his gravity and is still floating around the winery) talks to Alex about the origin of The Not Yet Named Wine Co, the first (discounting a one off American project over a decade ago) the bring democratic principles to the wine drinking masses. From concept to first vintage, we explore how the concept has progressed and understand more about the kind of options the community are able to make and influence. TNYNWC is more than just the wine though, with discussions and votes involving names, labelling, and many other things too. Also, the community involved have access to special events and Dictator Wines. Talking of events, there is still time for you to join an Arrival Party this Saturday 27th July…hit the social medias of TNYNWC website to join the fun. Beyond this we focus on the impending vintage 5, which will see Alex travel to Slovenia to carry out the demands of his faithful followers…and there is still time for you to join the action. As well as this, Alex shares stories of how the project is connecting people across continents, school trips, and an incident with a pig. With huge thanks to Alex for his time and sharing his fabulous story; we’re huge fans of this business and think you will be too. TM&TM: THE NOT YET NAMED WINE CO. available to castdown from your podloads on Thursday morning. @fergelias @wineman147 @alexanderjbrogan @notyetnamedwineco #wine #podcast #winecast #winetime #notyetnamedwineco #democracy #vote #voting

In 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. Consequently, the sound quality on his end is less than optimal. We apologise for this inconvenience and kindly ask you to bear with this episode, dear listener. Despite the audio hiccups. Phoebe’s contributions are crystal clear, providing genuinely important and relevant information about the state of the fastest-growing agricultural sector in the United Kingdom. Phoebe discusses the significant growth the industry has seen recently, the challenges it faces, and the exciting developments on the horizon. From advancements in viticulture to the impact of climate change, this episode covers a broad spectrum of topics that are essential for anyone interested in the UK’s burgeoning wine sector. There are many challenges ahead, but also much to be positive about, making this a truly enlightening episode. So, tune in and enjoy this informative discussion, and stay tuned for Lee’s return next week.

1,000 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 about the roles and responsibilities of governing bodies, Ferg lays it all bare. And we do mean all. Thankfully Lee has edited the images out of the podcast and you remain mentally-scar free. Just what are producers in Alsace doing to mitigate, pre-empt, and survive climate change? Are they growing the most suitable varieties? How are wine styles changing? Just what is this Temple Of Ego he describes?   As if this wasn't enough, Lee tells us about his impending wine dinner for Flavours of Spain (remember: he's their ambassador) at l'Oculto SE4 on Thursday 11th July. Apparently he's going to talk about the joys of Valencia and will share bottles that bubbles, whites that intrigue, reds that uplift, and sweeties and soothe. Or something like that. There may still be a few tickets remaining to head to @locultose4's website via this link and get yourself booked in.   TM&TM: The Wrong Varieties available to loadpoad from wherever you downdown from Thursday morning.

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 Tom shares more of his winemaking stories, Spanish adventures, and exactly how he went about crafting them. It’s fair to say that our pair of banjos were suitably impressed. Blown away. These wines fully deserve their cult status and following, and not just because Tom himself is a class act. If you would like to try them, you can purchase the same tasting pack through The Online Tasting Club. Do it, you won’t be disappointed. From outdated pop culture references, chasing cockerels, and dubious use of sponsorship money, this episode is another big one, but it’s a huge amount of wine tasting and story telling fun. You’ll love it. TM&TM: Take Your Cos And F*** O*** loaddownable from your poddingcasts Thursday morning.

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. Suddenly it was back home to Shropshire and into the loving arms of one of the UK’s best wine merchants (for once, this isn’t actually about Bin Two)…Tanners. It was here that Tom fell in love…in more ways than one. Following sojourns around New Zealand and Canada, it was off to Spain to establish what has quickly become an iconic brand with a fabulous story. With success in Somontano came a journey back to the world of The Kickball as Tom became the winemaker-on-call for Shrewsbury Town. In this episode we tackle winemaking techniques, the beauty of Shropshire (especially that there flower show), and high profile celebrity encounters. Ferg improves upon his [guest name] Doo [guest name] Don’t in a way no one could have foreseen and Lee returns to pitting the two winemakers head to head in a battle of vinous wits. It’s a big one this, and rightfully so. So settle in, kick off your dancing shoes, and be ready for Part I of a Pasodyssey. TM&TM: Not Contributing To The Science out Thursday morning to podcast from wherever you get your downloads

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 opportunity to push his own #ThinkIndie #DrinkIndie agenda and ask about the engagement and interaction from the indie crowd. It is often asked if bodies like the WSTA are doing enough, but are the indies supporting in return? Given the nature of the work, we ask Miles how he walks the difficult tightrope between satisfying both the needs of members and engaging with government. Following this, we ask if there have been discussions with current shadow ministers and the opposition in the event that there is a change of government. Special mentions to, The Online Wine Tasting Club, North South Wines, and Eynsham Cellars as examples of businesses who have engaged and ‘activated’ their local MPs. Other questions raised by our listener and ourselves include the specifics of repackaging sizes, declining alcohol consumption and the continuing rise of the temperance movement and how to respond in the face of these challenges. Miles also cover briefly the current state of catering and hospitality, MUP, duty rises and increasing taxation; again, we ask how we can navigate these as an industry and do our best to tackle them. Amongst these and other things, Miles also explains the Community Alcohol Partnership initiative. This is a packed in episode that covers a great deal of ground. As covered in the episode, if you are interested in learning more about these issues, the work of The WSTA, or indeed joining them, connect with them through their website, social channels, or info@thewsta.co.uk. Our sincere thanks to Miles and The WSTA for the fabulous work. TM&TM: THE WSTA available to download from wherever you get your podcasts on Thursday morning.

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 with The WSTA’s chief executive, Miles Beale. He will need no introduction (but we do give him one in the episode) as he has steered the WSTA and our industry through multiple swells and storms during his tenure at the top. From his life as a civil servant, move into politics, and becoming the UK’s most influential drinks figure (did we mention that?) in Part I we enjoy some fun and frolics before a much more serious Part II arrives next week. Ferg delivers his now classic interview style with an updated and much more respectful take: Miles Does Miles Does Not while Lee asks questions about attire, snooker, and the notion of politicians as celebrities. From his loose connections to navy rum and his rumoured part in The Matrix, Miles plays along with our silly games with grace and style, as we would expect. In next week’s episode we talk (genuinely) about the bigger issues facing our industry and the fabulous work of the WSTA. For now, enjoy hearing Miles share his preferred tipples, political background, and how to handle a suit-based interview crisis. Our sincere thanks to Miles for his time to record this and talk about things seemingly unrelated to the very important work of the WSTA. We promise that next week’s episode is definitely worth a listen, especially if you’re in, around, or connected to alcoholic drinks in any way. TM&TM: Firing Large Guns podvailable to loadstream from wherever you downcast your audio experiences on Thursday morning.

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 clearance? Is it right that we’re asking for further sponsors for our show to sit alongside Bin Two?* Just how many Dodgeball references are socially acceptable on a wine podcast? Lee becomes nothing more than a Talking Head (well, he’s never been anything else has he?) as he nods along with Ferg’s every thought and whim. He does however introduce us to a brand new book: Italy In A Wine Glass. Just published and authored by the fabulous Marc Millon, this is a tour de force through Italian history, mythology, and culture, all through the lens of the country’s wines. Published by Hurst, you should be looking this up. Lee also tees up his next Discover Spain wine dinner at l’Oculto on the 9th May, which you should definitely attend! We finally actually have some listener feedback. Through official channels. Thank you to our new correspondents who took the time to email in with their thoughts, questions, and moral questions. Would it take that much for you to write in too? Finally, we catch up with recently featured Karen Jenkins new hobbies. TM&TM: Oysters On A Business Trip available to your ears from your podcast site of choice on Thursday morning.