Sip with Nikki

A spontaneous trip to Tokyo leads to an unforgettable adventure at the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market, where my good friend Dana and I find ourselves in a culinary wonderland. We’re wandering through stalls overflowing with fresh seafood, from glistening tuna to tantalizing wagyu beef, all while trying to navigate the quirky world of Japanese currency.Throughout the episode, we capture:The vibrant sounds and flavors of the marketThe locals who definitely who left an impression on usOur foodie (and sake) moments as as we indulge in the freshest bites, uncover hidden gems, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Tokyo's food scene!Other resources and links: If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy us a glass of wine! Please and Thank you!Visit the Podcast website to read more detail and see pictures from this episode!Follow me on Instagram and check out the highlight bubble from the Tokyo Market!Did you know we make wine here in Sonoma County? Our 2022 Sollevato Sangiovese and 2023 Grenache are available to be shipped to most US States. Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off. They're both delicious, medium bodied, aromatic red wines that belong on your dinner table!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions? Comments? Guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Note: a Video version of this podcast will be releasing soon! Subscribe/Follow @nikkilamberti on YouTube! Reaching 100 episodes feels a little surreal. What started as an idea has turned into a body of work filled with wine education, travel stories, laughter, vulnerability, and genuine human connection. Episode 100 of Sip With Nikki is a celebration—of the podcast, the people behind it, and the community of listeners who’ve made it all possible.Recorded from our home in Sonoma County, this episode brings together Nikki, Michael, and original producer Kathryn for a look back at favorite moments, unexpected challenges, and the joy that has carried the show forward over the last two years.Spoiler alert: There's a couples speed round...Other resources and links: If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy us a glass of wine! Please and Thank you!Podcast website: www.sipwithnikki.com. Sign up there to be part of our SIP Community and receive my free Wine Tips download.Did you know we make wine here in Sonoma County? Our 2022 Sollevato Sangiovese and 2023 Grenache are available to be shipped to most US States. Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off. They're both delicious, medium bodied, aromatic red wines that belong on your dinner table!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions? Comments? Guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine! Please and Thank you!Yes, I drink cocktails... and this week I'm sitting down with Ken MacKenzie from Fresh Victor! We dive into the world of premium cocktail mixers that are not only fresh but also made with clean ingredients—no more high fructose corn syrup in our drinks!Whether you're shaking things up at a dinner party or kicking back poolside, we’ve got tips and tricks to help you enjoy cocktails and mocktails that are packed with flavor and super easy to make!Check out their full line of fresh, cold pressed mixers HERE and use our special discount code THESIP20 for 20% off your order!Other resources and links: Podcast website: www.sipwithnikki.com. Sign up there to be part of our SIP Community and receive my free Wine Tips downloadDid you know I make my own wine here in Sonoma County? My 2022 Sollevato Sangiovese and 2023 Grenache are available to be shipped to most US States. Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off. They're both delicious, medium bodied, aromatic red wines that belong on your dinner table!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions? Comments? Guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!I read an article today called "Nonalcoholic wine is still terrible. Will it ever get better?" It's by Ester Mobley in the 1/24/26 San Francisco Chronicle and it inspired me to add to and re-release our episode from last January, where 4 of us got together to taste a lineup of De-Alcholoized Wines. It was a great episode, entertaining and enlightening... so here's your chance in case you missed it!The rise of NOLO wines (non-alcoholic or low-alcohol alternatives) is a hot and polarizing topic 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?Want to hear more of Dr. Hoby Wedler? Listen to this episode where he talks about Seeing Flavor and Tasting Color and our episode talking about the "Come Over October Campaign". Follow him on INSTAGRAM and check out his WEBSITE.We tasted: Zilch sparkling roséFre Rose and Sauvignon BlancGiesen New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Red BlendHand On Heart Cabernet SauvignonAriel Cabernet SauvignonOther resources and links: Podcast website: www.sipwithnikki.com: Sign up there to be part of our SIP Community and receive my free Wine Tips downloadDid you know I make my own wine here in Sonoma County? My 2022 Sollevato Sangiovese and 2023 Grenache are available to be shipped to most US States. Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off. They're both delicious, medium bodied, aromatic red wines that belong on your dinner table!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions? Comments? Guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Why do people LOVE or HATE Chardonnay? It's the polarizing grape that tends to split the room...I'm leading 3 generations from ages 21-80 through a blind tasting featuring six different Chardonnays, ranging from $15 to $70 a bottle.You'll hear why Chardonnay can range from “yuck” to “yum” so easily, and explore the factors that contribute to its diverse flavor profiles. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a graduate of the school of ABC (Anything But Chardonnay), this episode promises some eye-opening insights and a lot of laughs with my family, as we navigate through the often misunderstood nuances of this often debated wine.Chardonnays Mentioned in the Episode:Joel Gott 2023 Unoaked Dreaming Tree 2022 CaliforniaMacon-Village by Louis Jadot 2023Rombauer 2022 CarnerosPride Mountain Vineyards- 2024 NapaThree Sticks 2024 Durell VineyardOther Links and Resources:Purchase our small-lot, sustainably grown, super delicious Sollevato 2023 Grenache and 2022 Sangiovese! Super-versatile wines for your table all year round! (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Back by popular demand... Dr. Hoby Wedler is my dear friend and sensory export who was born without sight. With his PhD in organic chemistry, he inspires people to experience the life at it fullest, especially when it comes to food, wine and the smells and sounds of the world around us!Listen as Hoby and his partner Justin, my partner Michael and I all gather around the Holiday table and talk about:The exciting new projects we've all been up to since we last saw each other!Hoby and Justin's first impression of our new Sollevato Grenache, including its unique flavor profile and pairing possibilitiesThe resilience of our Coffey Park neighborhood post-wildfires, and a new tradition for all of our neighbors to enjoyThe challenges of pairing wine with spicy foodHoby's got a new project and you'll want to be in the knowHoby's Haiku:Fresh and pure. Is itsilky, supple, smooth, delightful.It makes us all happy.Episode Links:Check out Hoby's special curated box, Sweet and Savory Autumn Bounty Here Use the code WILDTHINGS10 for 10% off your orderFollow Dr Hoby on Instagram Purchase our small-lot, sustainably grown, super delicious Sollevato 2023 Grenache and 2022 Sangiovese! Super-versatile wines for your table all year round! (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Are you drinking Grenache? Here's why you should be. And why our newest release is extra-special! The emotional moment of sending off our first Grenache bottles is truly unforgettable, marking years of hard work and dedication. Our new Grenache represents not just a wine but a legacy we're excited to share with you all. This wine's release is tied to the cause of cancer research, making every bottle purchased a step towards making a difference. Grenache is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with various foods, making it a must-try for any dinner table. We (sustainably) packed each order ourselves, wrapping them in love and care, which adds a personal touch to every shipment. Our partnership with the V Foundation allows us to give back while enjoying a glass of wine, making it a heartfelt experience. Other Links and Discount Codes:Purchase our small-lot, sustainably grown, super delicious Sollevato 2023 Grenache and 2022 Sangiovese! Super-versatile wines for your table all year round! (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Try one of our favorite rosé of Grenaches from Terratorium WinesFollow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more! You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy Michael and I a glass of wine! We would be so grateful! Cheers, Angels! Episode Notes:With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Michael is weighing in on our holiday traditions and the all-important task of selecting the perfect wines to complement the feast. Michael, the self-proclaimed Thanksgiving aficionado (eye-roll) shares his excitement for the holiday and why it is his favorite!This year marks a change as we transition from hosting to being guests at a friend's home, which sparks a fun conversation about the joys and challenges of holiday cooking and what we will bring!Highlights:Pairing multiple wines with different dishes elevates the whole dining experience, try it... (you're welcome)We share our top versatile wines and why they work! Thanksgiving wines should be versatile to complement both savory and sweet dishes on the table.3 Words...Leftover Stuffing Waffles!Episode Links and Resources: Michael's go to brine (for roasted or smoked turkey) from Chef Thomas KellerOur favorite Viognier (Aromatic, Dry White wine) from Pride Mountain Vineyards (Call to Order) One of our favorite Pinot Noirs, from fellow Sonoma County husband and wife team and Breast Cancer Survivor, Smith Story Wines! One of our favorite sparkling wines is Schramsberg Blanc De Blanc-widely distributed, easy to find in most wine shops and great price!Other Links and Discount Codes:Purchase our small-lot, sustainably grown, super delicious Sollevato Sangiovese 2022! Super-versatile for your table all year round! (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more! You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

I'm re-releasing our episode from last November in honor of Beaujolais Nouveau Day! What's this fun made up Wine Holiday all about?The 3rd Thursday of November is Beaujolais Nouveau Day, which has historically celebrated the end of Harvest. It also means the arrival of super young, fun and flirty red wines made from the Beaujolais region in Central France. But is Beaujolais as a category of wine, just about those bubble gum and grape popsicle tasting wines???(which are certainly cheap and cheerful...)Get the scoop here on what you might be missing... there are more complex beautiful wines that also come out of that regionSteal the tips for finding the right ones for you. Hear about our Sip Spotlight wine and how to try it for yourself! Other Links and Discount Codes:Purchase my small-lot, sustainably grown, super delicious Sollevato Sangiovese 2022! (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more! You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

I recently took a MUCH NEEDED girls trip to Walt Disney World, where I escaped into the Disney happiness bubble with my mom and sisters. After the year our family has had, it was the perfect getaway, filled with laughs, love and so much delicious food and beverage!Listen to this all new episode, where I recap what we had at some of the newest spots (Geo-82, Beak and Barrel and Three Bridges) as well as some classic but overlooked spots like the secret Champagne Bar in Epcot!And I'm sharing a tip on how to get reservations at some of those hot spots!Whether you are a Disney visitor or not this audio food porn is a great lesson in food and wine pairing and my tips on how to live your best culinary life!Highlights include:Disney's Coronado Springs Resort- Dahlia Lounge and Three BridgesDisney's Riviera Resort- Topolino and Bar RivaDisney's Animal Kingdom- Tiffins Nomad LoungeEpcot- Les Vins de France, Geo-82, Rose and Crown Pub, Bramblewood BitesDisney's Polynesian Resort- Wailulu Bar and GrillMagic Kingdom- Beak and BarrelEpisode Links and resources:Find the fantastic Spanish Garnacha I had at Three Bridges here! Learn more about the South African Chenin Blanc we had at Wailulu Bar here!Other Links and Discount Codes:Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022 and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (last call!)(Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Are you finding yourself dreaming of moving to Italy? (I am...) This episode brings you the inspiring journey of Ashley Bartner and her husband Jason, who traded their New York lives for an agriturismo in the enchanting La Marche region.They’re living the dream—running a farm, hosting cooking classes, and sharing their experiences with those curious about relocating to Italy. You'll hear how they navigated the challenges of moving abroad, from securing visas to finding the perfect property and starting up La Tavola Marche.Takeaways:Ashley and Jason moved from New York to Italy and started their agriturismo, inspiring others to pursue their dreams of living abroad.She shares their experience navigating the complexities of moving to another country, including visas, taxes, and local customs.They offer workshops on how to successfully transition to life in Italy, helping people turn their dreams into reality, and addressing common challenges faced by expats.We do a special Sip Spotlight on the unique local wine, Lacrima, and find a rare and exciting connection between Sonoma County and the La Marche region!Episode Links and Resources:Visit Ashley and Jason's Website to learn more about staying at the Inn, cooking classes and their Move to Italy Workshops!Check out their podcast "The Podcast From Italy".Follow them on Instagram Find the local LacrimaContact Ramazzotti Family Vineyards in Sonoma County to try their Lacrima!Other Links and Discount Codes:Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022 and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (last call!)(Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:Use my VIP Friends and Family Link to sign up for Wine Spies! And use the coupon code NIKKI for $50 off your order of $200 or more!You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

If you’ve ever wondered how to snag top-notch wines at eye-popping prices...This week I'm going Undercover with "Agent Cru" from Wine Spies!From the thrill of getting your daily deals to learning about innovative shipping solutions that keep your wine cool and safe (and complimentary!), this episode is packed with tips and laughs!HIghlights: Wine Spies offers amazing deals on high-quality wines, often selling for less than half the retail price, which makes it a great option for wine lovers looking to score a bargain. Sign up for their daily deals HERE Agent Cru shares his journey from working in a family winery (cellar rat!) to becoming the CEO of Wine Spies, highlighting his passion for curating wines for a diverse audience. Follow them on InstagramOther Links and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Michael and I just binged watched the new Netflix series, "Next Gen Chef" which was filmed at the Culinary Institute of America in NY. We were excited to see an appearance from a long time friend, Chef Melissa Walnock, who was one of the first guests on the podcast back in Feb 2024!In case you missed it, or just want another dose of her badass wisdom and joy, I'm re- releasing a newly edited version of her episode in celebration of her Netflix debut!We talk about:How being a type 1 diabetic since childhood has shaped her career and artistryHow having an OCD brain serves her extremely precise creations Being a woman in some of the most famous kitchens in the country Her crazy practical exam to become faculty at the Culinary Institute What it’s like teaching the next generation (NextGen!)Get our Sip Spotlight wine through my affiliate partner website here: Check out her baking classes here Be sure to follow her gorgeous Instagram @chefwalnockIf you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine! Please consider Rating, Reviewing and Following Us on Apple Podcasts!“Delightful and fun. Now I love my Monday Commute” (kpjscarbs). Sound like you? I’d love for you to leave your own review!How? Click Here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with Stars and select "write a review" and let us know what you loved most about this episode! If you haven't already, please FOLLOW the podcast! We have so many more exciting episodes coming out, and if you're not following you might MISS then! Click here to Follow! Get my Wine Tips Cheat Sheet here: Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!Truth? I am in the middle of a difficult chapter in my life, and I was looking for some much needed joy. So I planned a very last minute trip to LA with my good friends Hoby and Justin. We designed 48 joyful hours around 2 of my favorite things... Dave Matthews and Disney!Listen to our day at Disneyland as Hoby, who brings a unique perspective as someone who navigates the world without sight, helps us appreciate the magic around us in a whole new way. You'll also get a behind the scenes listen as he records some of his viral videos that have taken over IG, TikTok and YouTube!Highlights:-We taste some coveted Disney snacks, like the classic turkey leg and the new and exciting pickle dog... and recommended wine pairings with each one!-Hoby shares his impression of some classic and new attractions and his perceptions experiencing them without site-We have a lot of fun and there is joy and laughter and you should listen. That is all.Other Links and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

This week I'm revisiting an episode from one year ago where I shared a very exciting and rare experience that happened to me while in Bend, Oregon last summer. Enjoy a new intro and outtro to the original episode, where I look back on what has happened after a CRAZY year of life and reflect on if I would have done it differently if given the chance. Spoiler alert: I get a little emotional and a little philosophical. I'm also highlighting a STEAL of a wine (90 points from Wine Enthusiast and under $15!) that pairs beautifully with this story... and you'll hear about the connection between the two! Without giving away too much... You'll hear about:26 years of consistent passion and enthusiasm for ONE THINGHow being patient paid off My curiosity of how YOU think it went and what you would have done differently!Song lyrics referenced in the episode:Oh, how it happened, blew the lid and got a taste, it's some kind of magicIt could happen like it did, Like we awoke, we were still dreamingWhen it happened like it did , If I wasn't there, I wouldn't believe it-DJMThis week's Sip Spotlight wine is a Blast from the Past!Other Links and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!)Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.comIf you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy me a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!

I was lucky to sit down with Winemaker Leo Tellez and Dir. of Hospitality and Sales, Joe Hinde from Ackerman Family Vineyards in downtown Napa! From the "aviary" of their restored Victorian Heritage House, we laugh and learn from each other as I hear their journeys that led them to where they are today.Listen as we taste 3 unique and delicious small-production wines (Triple Sip Spotlight!) and talk about the newest Napa Valley AVA, Coombsville, what makes it special and why you need to be drinking wines from this very specific region. Highlights: Coombesville is a hidden gem in Napa Valley, producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Both of of these wine professionals come from multi-generational wine families and carved their paths in this industry Now more than ever, the importance of supporting and drinking wines from small family producers Winemaking is a blend of art and science, requiring creativity and meticulous attention. The joy of wine tasting lies in the stories and connections made around the table. Episode Links:You can purchase their wines and set up a tasting at Ackerman Family VineyardsCheck out their YouTube Channel for more of the "Joe and Leo Show"Follow them on InstagramOther Links and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

I recently learned about the powerhouse husband and wife duo Brian Ball and Laura Jones and their new Chardonnay focused winery, Sphaerics.I'm always interested to learn about other small family operated wineries, especially when we are neighbors here in Sonoma County AND they are also created by people who are both partners in Life AND Business, like Michael and I. Listen as I sit down with Brian and Laura and over spectacular vineyard views of the Alexander Valley, they share how 15 years of working in the wine business, him as a GM and her as a celebrated winemaker, led to the creation of their own brand highlighting coveted vineyard sites... and a new and exciting vineyard that will be part of their portfolio soon!Highlights: Brian shares what led him from Wall Street to Wine Country and Why..Laura shares her story of making wines around the world and why she is so passionate about Chardonnay We talk about the perceptions and misconceptions about Chardonnay and why it's so exciting to work with They share about the "Energy" in their wines and what that means to you, the wine drinkerHow to acquire these tiny production masterpieces in the futureEpisode Links: Sign up for their mailing list at Sphaerics WineFollow Sphaerics on Instagram Read the San Francisco Chronicle article (by Esther Mobley) that put them on my radarRead this awesome highlight of Sphaerics and Laura's winemaking in Wine SpectatorOther Links and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Sign up for my free downloadable wine tips cheat sheet here, which is a great learning companion to this episode!If you'd like to Support the Podcast, you can buy Nikki a glass of wine and get a shoutout on a future episode!Episode Notes: Alright class, (don’t worry, it’s Wine School)… This week is what we call in wine tasting a "Revisit", which sounds so much classier than saying "can I have some more?" And it's a topic that I ALWAYS get so many questions about (which is why it was worth a revisit)...Aging Wine!If you’ve ever wondered things like:Why should I age a wine? How does it change?Will I like it better? What’s the best way to store it? Then this episode is for you!I’ll break down :The elements in a wine that determine it it will “get better” with timeWhat happens to wines as they age and how the flavor and texture changeThe best way to store your wine if you are going to “let it ride”Episode Links: You can get the 2019 Vintage of our Sip Spotlight, Robert Sinskey Abraxas through the winery directly here Or if you’d like to try the 2015 Vintage I described, to experience more age on this white blend, My partner wine.com has some available here  First time customers Use the code SAVEBIG for $20 off your order of $150Other Links and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Proud Aunt Moment: My nephew Aidan is about to start his third year as a Cadet and rugby player at the West Point Military Academy in NY. He recently spent 3 weeks in Germany on an exchange training with their military and he was excited to share some of his stories from his time there. Being well trained from a young age by his aunt Nikki, he was curious about German wine, beer and spirits and brought home some different things that he wanted to share with us along with the stories of his time in the field. Listen to our 3 generation gathering as Aidan and I are joined my mom, Susan, and my sisters Dana (his mom) and Amanda as we listen, learn and taste all the German things. Takeaways:Aidan shares his insights from his military exchange in Germany, including cultural differences in drinking habits We talk about the generational shift in alcohol consumption, and I get his thoughts on Gen Z's preferences We taste a surprising Wine he brought back from the Baden regionWe do a side by side tasting of German and American Jagermeister He shares about military "patch culture" as we learn about an interesting (ahem) cocktail that was a staple for him during his training in the fieldLinks and resources: Purchase my Sollevato Sangiovese 2022and Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com

Check 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 in Organic Chemistry). Now you get to pull up a stool at my kitchen island as the 5 of us cook together, try different wine pairings and share tips and recipes for you to try at home!Episode Links:Follow Dr. Hoby on InstagramPride Mountain Vineyards Viognier- (call winery to order)-paired with chicken wings and mushroomsLagrein Merlot "Laurin"- paired with MushroomsHere are the special olive oil tasting glasses we talked about from American Olive FarmerSollevato Sangiovese 2022- paired with Margarita Pizza Sollevato "Fortunato" Red Blend- paired with Mushroom pasta (Use the code PODLISTENER for 10% off Nikki and Michael's Sollevato Wines!0Our favorite canned tomatoes for making pizza. Bianco DiNapoliEpisode Recipes:Hoby and Justin's Porcini Mushroom Pasta Nikki's Links:Follow me on Instagram to get the scoop on upcoming episodes and behind the scenes looks!Enjoy some of MY FAVORITE THINGS from our Sponsors:You NEED some delicious California Olive Oil from our awesome sponsor American Olive Farmer. Use code SipWithNikki for $10 off your order!Check out Sena Sea's website  to get your hands on some beautiful wild-caught Alaskan fish shipped right to your door! Use code sipandsea for 10% off your order and sign up for their email list (great recipes!) and be entered to win a monthly $50 gift card drawing.Questions, suggestions and guest requests? nikki@sipwithnikki.com