Pour & Explore: Wine, Food & Travel Stories from Around The World

Food is history, and a dish you love might have traveled centuries and crossed continents to land on your plate. In this episode of Pour & Explore, we dive into the incredible, universal stories of three comfort dishes—dumplings, noodles, and meat pies—and trace how they've been adapted across the globe. From Chinese Jiaozi and Polish Pierogi to Italian Pasta and Vietnamese Pho, these simple foods carry the flavors of migration, resourcefulness, and tradition. You’ll never look at a bowl of ramen or a handheld meat pie the same way again. Key Segments: The Travel-Ready Plate: Why simple comfort food becomes a global phenomenon. Dumplings: Little Pockets of History: A tour of the world’s favorite filled dough—including ravioli, empanadas, and chicken & dumplings. Noodles: The Threads That Connect Us: Tracing the journey of the world’s most versatile starch, from Chinese la mian to Japanese ramen and German spätzle. Meat Pies: Handheld History: How a practical, simple meal became a national obsession in places like Australia, the UK (Cornish Pasties), and the Caribbean (Jamaican Patties). The Final Bite: What these dishes tell us about our shared human instinct for comfort and connection. The Host's Challenge: This week, pick one dish (dumplings, noodles, or meat pies) and try it from a culture you haven't experienced before. As you eat it, reflect on the incredible journey that dish has taken and comment here! Connect with The Wine Guy: Want more food, wine, and travel stories? Follow on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn: https://www.tiktok.com/@realwineguy, https://www.instagram.com/the.real.wine.guy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewineguynte/,  Listen to more episodes of Pour & Explore wherever you get your podcasts!

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Pour and Explore, the podcast where wine, food, and travel come together for approachable and exciting conversations! In this debut episode, host Nick Elliott—certified sommelier, chef, and professional wanderer—shares his journey into the world of wine and food, starting from his days in culinary school to working hands-on in a vineyard and winery in Central California. He also introduces his laid-back approach to wine, ensuring there's no snobbery—just fun and flavorful discovery. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Nick’s Wine Journey The “Wine Guy Rules” for Pairing: Wine Myths Debunked: Red wine doesn’t only go with meat, and white wine doesn’t only pair with fish. Great pairings don’t require expensive wines—budget-friendly bottles can be just as enjoyable. Practical Tips Go to Wines for every meal Join the Fun: Try a new pairing at home—whether it’s Sauvignon Blanc with a fresh salad or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon with a grilled steak—and share your experience! Connect with Nick: Website: www.thewineguy.vin Social Media: Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin!   Cheers, and remember to keep wondering and wandering!

🍷 Small Towns, Big Dates, and Budget-Friendly Escapes! Ready to ditch the tourist traps and find the heart of America? 🇺🇸 In our latest episode, I’m sitting down with Crystal Statskey, the creative mastermind behind Dates in the States. From a five-week "make or break" road trip in a Mustang to becoming a self-published author, Crystal’s journey is all about intentional travel and finding hidden gems. In this episode, we dive into: 🏙️ The "Must-See" US Trio: Crystal’s top picks for falling in love with the US in just three days (New Orleans is a non-negotiable!). 🏡 The $220 Travel Hack: How she stayed in Costa Rica for eight days for free using home swapping. 🥨 Quirky Festivals: From Lilac-flavored gin in Rochester to the "Pickle Capital" of the world. 📚 Mystery Date Books: How Crystal turned her travel blog into a successful series of self-published date-night guides. Pro Tip from the Episode: If you want to eat like a local and save your budget, talk to the people who live there—and don’t be afraid to cook breakfast in your Airbnb!       📝 Show Notes & Resources Explore Crystal’s Guides: Mystery Date Books on Etsy Travel Like a Local: Dates in the States Official Site Budget Tools Mentioned: HomeExchange: Stay with locals worldwide. Flashfood: Save on groceries while on the road. Travel App Deep Dive: Watch Crystal’s YouTube breakdown.   👇 Join the Adventure! We want to see where you're headed next! Follow us both on social media for daily travel inspiration, small-town highlights, and the best wine-country secrets. Follow Crystal Statskey: @DatesInTheStates Follow The Wine Guy: https://www.instagram.com/the.real.wine.guy/#

In this episode of Pour & Explore, we aren't chasing Michelin stars or exotic luxury; we are chasing comfort. Join us as we take a culinary tour of four regions—the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America—to uncover the stories behind the dishes that wrap around us like a warm blanket. We explore how comfort food is defined differently by culture, geography, and history, yet always leads back to memory and resilience. In This Episode, You’ll Explore: United States: The Language of Leftovers How American comfort food reflects resilience and stretching ingredients. The history of Mac & Cheese, tracing back to Thomas Jefferson and enslaved chefs. The origins of Fried Chicken and the blend of Mexican spices and cowboy practicality found in Chili. Europe: Old World Nourishment Dishes born from peasant traditions that used every scrap, like Shepherd's Pie (leftover meat and potatoes). How Pizza started as a food for the poor in Naples. The transformation of tough ingredients into delicacies, like the French Coq au Vin ("rooster with wine"). Asia: Balance & Bowls Foods that center around broths, rice, and noodles to soothe the spirit. The evolution of Ramen from student food to art form. The healing nature of Congee (rice porridge) and the protein-rich tradition of Indian Dal. Latin America: Hearty & Celebratory Comfort food as a communal identity tied to family gatherings. The history of Tamales (ancient Aztec food), Feijoada (Brazil's national dish born from scraps), and the daily staple of Arepas. Resources Mentioned: Free Download: Comfort Foods Around the World & Wine Pairings Guide – A curated list of the dishes discussed in this episode paired with recommended wines to make them shine. Click the link for access: https://www.thewineguy.vin/downloads Memorable Quote: "Comfort food is never just about the ingredients. It’s about memory, family, resilience, and culture."

On this episode of Pour & Explore, we sit down with Shelly Najjar, a Nutrition Mindset Coach and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. We move beyond calorie counting to discuss the sensory experience of eating and how to cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Shelly breaks down the "All Foods Fit" philosophy, explains the biological reaction to different macronutrients, and offers practical tips for maintaining mindfulness while traveling. Whether you are a "foodie" documenting every meal or someone looking to break free from food guilt, this conversation is packed with nourishing insights.   Key Takeaways: The "All Foods Fit" Philosophy: Shelly explains that there are no morally "good" or "bad" foods. While a carrot and carrot cake digest differently, choosing one over the other doesn't make you a better or worse person. The Purple Elephant Effect: Shelly uses a "purple elephant" analogy to demonstrate how trying not to think about a forbidden food (restriction) actually makes you obsess over it more. Eating with Your Senses: Satisfaction comes from more than just taste. Visuals, textures, and even the environment play a huge role in how satisfied we feel after a meal. Travel Nutrition Tips: Maintaining routine on the road is hard. Shelly suggests packing snacks like trail mix to avoid sugar crashes and focusing on "satisfaction" when dining out in new places. Biology 101: We discuss the physiological difference between eating a doughnut (carbs/fats) versus nuts (protein/fats) and why pairing carbs with protein helps prevent energy slumps. Guest Bio: Shelly Najjar is a Nutrition Mindset Coach who helps people care for themselves and fully enjoy their lives while reaching their goals. She draws on thousands of hours of training as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, holding a Master's degree in Public Health Nutrition. Her specialty is addressing the "why" and "how" we eat, blending mindset with practical tips to make nutrition and self-care easier.   Links & Resources: Website: ConfidentNutritionNow.com Instagram: @confidentnutritiontravels Facebook: Confident Nutrition with Shelly Najjar YouTube: Shelly Najjar   Memorable Quote: "One, you're not alone... and two, that usually happens because of restriction. That out of control feeling is very common. It's not your fault." — Shelly Najjar

On this episode of Pour & Explore, we step out of the restaurant and into the kitchen. We are joined by podcaster, photographer, and avid traveler Lorraine Ball to discuss her tradition of taking cooking classes around the world. From the intimate home kitchens of Paris to making "banitsa" in Bulgaria, Lorraine shares why cooking is the ultimate way to understand a new culture. We also geek out over wine (specifically why you might be wrong about Chardonnay), share tips for visiting local markets, and discuss how to capture better travel photos with just your smartphone. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: The "Day 1" Rule: Why Lorraine always schedules her cooking classes for the very first day of a trip (and why you should too). Read the Menu: How to avoid disappointment by checking the fine print—if you don't like fish stew, don't book the standard Portuguese class! Market Magic: The difference between visiting the famous "tourist" markets (like in Florence) vs. the hidden neighborhood gems. Wine Revelations: A story from Austria that challenges the "I hate Chardonnay" mindset and the debate between American Oak vs. Stainless Steel. Mobile Photography Tips: How to transition from a bulky camera to a smartphone without losing quality, plus the one app Lorraine swears by for editing on the go. Resources & Mentions: App Mentioned: Snapseed (for photo editing). Book Mentioned: Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain. Guest’s Podcast: More Than a Few Words (Marketing conversations for business owners). Memorable Quote: "You don't like fish stew? Maybe you shouldn't go to the fish stew class... Reading the details is really important." — Lorraine Ball

Think wine country is all velvet ropes and $175 dinners? Katina Burke is building the opposite—authentic, affordable, actually fun wine trips designed for Millennials and Gen Z.   Nick Elliott, The Wine Guy, sits down with Katina Burke, founder of Next Gen Wino, a new platform + white-glove travel service connecting younger wine lovers with welcoming tasting rooms, small producers, and real-deal experiences (not just the glossy postcard stops). They dig into why younger drinkers do love wine—when it’s presented differently—and how curated, people-first itineraries can turn “wine-curious” into lifelong fans.   What You’ll Learn How Next Gen Wino curates wineries with great vibes, kind staff, and crushable wines—no intimidation required. Why the same 3–4 “influencer” wineries aren’t the best intro to a region—and where the hidden gems live. The simple pre-trip tasting that boosts confidence before you hit wine country. Smart swaps for Sauvignon Blanc fans (think Albariño, Vermentino, un-oaked Chardonnay). Two travel recs Katina can’t stop raving about: Buenos Aires/Mendoza and Sicily/Etna.   Connect with Next Gen Wino: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextgenwino Website: https://www.nextgenwino.com   Connect with Nick: Website + Tastings: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin Instagram | TikTok | Facebook: @thewineguyvin

Ever wonder why some wines get better with time while others fall flat? In this episode of Pour and Explore, certified sommelier and former winemaker Nick Elliott breaks down the art—and science—of aging wine. You’ll learn which bottles are worth saving, how to store them without a fancy cellar, and how to know when they’re ready to pop. Nick explains what’s actually happening inside the bottle as it ages, why acidity and tannin matter, and which wines (like Cabernet, Barolo, and Riesling) evolve beautifully over time. He also shares a few that are better enjoyed young—looking at you, rosé—and how to store bottles properly in a closet, cabinet, or budget-friendly wine fridge. You’ll even get tips for tasting aged wines, pairing them with food, and avoiding common storage mistakes. Whether you’re a collector or a casual sipper, this episode will help you age wine with confidence—and enjoy it when it’s just right. In this episode: Which wines are built to age What happens inside the bottle over time Simple storage rules (no cellar required) When to open that special bottle Connect with Nick: Website + Tastings: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin Instagram | TikTok | Facebook: @thewineguyvin

New to wine or just tired of feeling intimidated by tasting rooms? This one’s for you. I’m joined by Ron Higgs, Navy veteran, systems engineer, craft-beer lover turned wine volunteer, who went from “I can’t drink wine without making a face” to seven years pouring in a boutique Woodinville winery. We trace his journey from Monterey (where both of our palates woke up) to Santa Rosa/Healdsburg weekends and Washington wine country, and we share exactly how to start exploring wine without the fuss.   In this episode: How a non-wine drinker became a tasting-room regular—and then a volunteer Monterey memories: the first “aha” sip and why starting light works Sonoma & Santa Rosa highlights: seeking small, boutique producers over big names Woodinville 101: what makes Washington’s tasting rooms special “Co-opetition” in wine: how small wineries share gear, knowledge, and customers A practical script for walking into your first tasting room with confidence Why travel changes your palate—and how to use that to find wines you love   Connect with me: Questions, ideas, or a favorite pairing to share? Email me at cheers@thewineguy.vin or find all my links at thewineguy.vin. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Pour and Explore, rate the show, and share it with a friend who loves to cook and travel.

Harvest is here, and it’s the most exciting (and exhausting) time of year in wine country. In this episode, sommelier Nick Elliott is taking you behind the cellar door to show you exactly what happens during harvest from when the grapes are picked, crushed, fermented, and eventually transformed into the wines we love. In this episode: How winemakers decide the perfect moment to pick grapes Why vineyard crews often start working at 4:00 AM The difference between hand-picking and machine-picking What really goes on during “the crush” and fermentation Why visiting a winery during harvest is the best time to experience the true heartbeat of wine country From sticky cellar floors and sleepless nights to the electric energy of fermenting tanks, harvest is chaotic, beautiful, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a casual wine lover or a full-on wine nerd, this episode will give you a new appreciation for the magic inside your glass. So grab a glass, get ready to sip smarter, and join me as we celebrate harvest season in all its glory.   Connect with me: Questions, ideas, or a favorite pairing to share? Email me at cheers@thewineguy.vin or find all my links at thewineguy.vin. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Pour and Explore, rate the show, and share it with a friend who loves to cook and travel.

Ever stared at your spice cabinet and thought, “meh”? Same. In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Maloney, founder of Spicy Spuds & Other Stuff, whose clean, sodium-free blends prove you don’t need buckets of salt—or a culinary degree—to cook something craveable. We dig into her origin story advocating for her daughter’s health, how she develops versatile blends that work on almost anything, and simple methods for getting dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S-HUov_RK-k   In this episode: The personal journey that sparked Spicy Spuds—and what “food as medicine” looks like at home How to build bold flavor without leaning on salt The role of acid, fat, and technique (hello, marinades and roasting) in fast weeknight meals Why most store-bought blends taste salty—and how to season smarter Sourcing, safety, and quality control in spice production Where clean blends fit in a professional kitchen without stealing a chef’s signature Lisa’s upcoming chef dinner in Las Vegas and how she’s expanding into retail and distribution Recipes I demo in this episode: Smoky Lime Shrimp Skewers using Chipotle Spice (quick marinade with citrus + olive oil; grill or roast) Wine Paring: Dry Riesling or Albariño Barbecue Bean & Sausage Casserole with Smoky Barbecue (ten-minute prep; oven or slow cooker) Wine Paring: Zinfandel or Rioja Crianza Tangy Garlic & Onion Potato Salad (herb-packed, picnic-ready) Wine Paring: Grüner Veltliner or Sauvignon Blanc Cinnamon Swirl Dessert Nachos with Dessert Spice (crisp tortillas, warm apple topping) Wine Paring: Tawny Port or late-harvest Riesling Want any of these? DM me on social or email me and I’ll send the step-by-step.   Connect with Lisa: Website: https://spicyspudsandotherstuff.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LisaMaloney-ug3ql   Connect with me: Questions, ideas, or a favorite pairing to share? Email me at cheers@thewineguy.vin or find all my links at thewineguy.vin. If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Pour and Explore, rate the show, and share it with a friend who loves to cook and travel.

What does it really mean when a bottle says organic, biodynamic, sustainable, or natural? Are these just marketing buzzwords, or is there something deeper in your glass? In this episode I’m breaking down the world of eco-friendly wines and what sustainability truly looks like in viticulture. From farming practices to bottle weight, from moon cycles to carbon-neutral wineries, I’ll help you navigate the labels, the philosophies, and the flavors behind “green” winemaking. As a former winemaker, I’ve seen firsthand how viticulture affects the land and why more producers are realizing that great wine starts with taking care of the earth. Eco-friendly wine isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional, understanding the story behind the bottle, and knowing that wine can be both delicious and sustainable.   In this episode: Organic wines: what “no synthetic pesticides” means and why sulfites are misunderstood Biodynamic wines: mystical calendars, self-sustaining vineyards, and why top producers embrace it Sustainable wines: going beyond farming to fair labor, renewable energy, water conservation, and packaging Natural wines: low-intervention, unfiltered, sometimes funky, and why they’re more of a mindset than a legal category Tips for shopping smarter: what certifications to look for, why supporting local wineries matters, and how your wine choices can reduce environmental impact   Stay Connected with Nick Follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook: @the.real.wine.guy Subscribe to the Pour and Explore newsletter for travel tips, wine pairings, and upcoming tour info: thewineguy.vin  

Have you ever wanted to make a cocktail at home but felt totally overwhelmed by the bottles in the liquor store? I know that feeling, and that’s why I was so excited to sit down with today’s guest. I’m joined by Jennifer Brian, the Cocktail Evangelist and founder of Make & Muddle, a Kentucky-based cocktail company on a mission to simplify mixology and help people create drinks they love—without intimidation. Jennifer also has a brand-new book, The Classic Cocktail Revival, which has been over a decade in the making. Before launching Make & Muddle, Jennifer worked in catering and event planning, and we swapped plenty of “war stories” from those high-pressure, high-connection environments. Now, she brings that same sense of creativity to her mixers—alcohol-free products designed to work with anything from gimlets to margaritas, and even mocktails. She’s also looking ahead with THC- and CBD-ready cocktails for more mindful sipping.   In this episode: Why Amaro is the unsung hero of cocktails Her favorite bourbon (and the Kentucky distillery you must visit) How master recipes can turn anyone into a confident cocktail maker The philosophy behind her new book, The Classic Cocktail Revival Why she believes every great drink is about creating connection   Connect with Jennifer: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocktail_evangelist/ Learn more about her upcoming book: https://makeandmuddle.com/classic-cocktail-revival-cookbook/   Stay Connected with Nick Follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook: @the.real.wine.guy Subscribe to the Pour and Explore newsletter for travel tips, wine pairings, and upcoming tour info: thewineguy.vin

What happens when bourbon, cigars, comedy, and real talk about life come together? You get The Cracked Skull Podcast—and today, host Corey Allinder joins me on Pour and Explore to share his story. Corey’s show is part bourbon lounge, part cigar hangout, part comedy night, and part therapy session with your best friends. Alongside his co-hosts Tony and Allen, Corey has built a space where blue-collar stories, belly laughs, and honest conversations about mental health all come together at the bar.   In this episode: The wild story behind the name Cracked Skull Podcast Corey’s bourbon journey—from bowling alley beers to building a 112+ bottle collection His favorite affordable pours (and the bottles he’ll never buy again) Distillery shoutouts in Ohio and Kentucky that have become part of his whiskey family Cigar picks (and one budget stick so bad, he made a guest put it out mid-smoke) Why Corey believes podcasting is less about clicks and more about connection How men’s mental health became a central theme of his show and why just talking it out can make all the difference   Connect with The Cracked Skull Podcast Watch on YouTube: The Cracked Skull Podcast Follow on Instagram: @crackedskullpodcast   Stay Connected with Nick Follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook: @the.real.wine.guy Subscribe to the Pour and Explore newsletter for travel tips, wine pairings, and upcoming tour info: thewineguy.vin

If you’ve ever savored a bold Barolo, stumbled over how to pronounce Xinomavro, or wondered why Turkish wine isn’t already on your radar, this episode is for you. Nick Elliott sits down with Andrea Lemieux, an Italian Wine Scholar, creator of The Quirky Cork, and author of The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine, to uncork the fascinating stories behind two wine worlds she knows best: Italy and Turkey. Andrea shares how her pandemic wine studies led her deep into Italy’s complex DOC rules, why Turkey’s native grapes like Emir, Kalecik Karası, and Çalkarası deserve global attention, and how she tracked down wineries across a country where alcohol advertising is banned.   In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Why Italian wine law is both mind-boggling and beautiful The must-try Turkish grapes you can find in the U.S. How Turkey’s winemakers are balancing foreign varietals with native traditions The food, travel, and cultural experiences that make Turkey unforgettable Andrea’s top pick for the one Turkish dish you need to try (spoiler: it’s not kebab) A peek inside her new book, The Quick and Dirty Guide to Greek Wine From Cappadocia’s volcanic vineyards to hidden gems along the Aegean coast, Andrea’s passion will have you ready to book a flight, fill your glass, and explore the Eastern Mediterranean one sip at a time.   Connect with Andrea Website: thequirkycork.com Instagram: @quirkycork YouTube: The Quirky Cork Her latest book, The Quick and Dirty Guide to Greek Wine, is available now on Amazon: Get it here   Stay Connected with Nick Follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook: @the.real.wine.guy Subscribe to the Pour and Explore newsletter for travel tips, wine pairings, and upcoming tour info: thewineguy.vin

What do your favorite wines, cheeses, breads, and even kombucha have in common? Fermentation. In this episode, Nick Elliott pulls back the curtain on the ancient, global, and totally fascinating process of fermentation. From how your favorite bottle of wine gets its start, to the tangy bite of kimchi and creamy smoothness of yogurt, this episode covers the science, culture, and delicious results of fermentation. In this episode: The difference between alcoholic, lactic acid, and malolactic fermentation How yeast and bacteria transform everyday ingredients into bold flavors Why wine grapes are ideal for fermentation (and how wild vs. commercial yeast changes the game) His favorite wine and fermented food pairings—like Riesling + kimchi fried rice How to host your own “fermentation night” dinner party Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a curious cook, or someone who just wants to geek out over sourdough and blue cheese, this episode is for you.   Connect with Nick: Website: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin TikTok | Instagram | Facebook: @thewineguy.vin

Ready to swirl, sip, and jet-set through Australia with fellow wine lovers? Nick Elliott is joined by down with the powerhouse behind Wine Lovers Travel, Gail Sherman, to share all about the Swirl Through Australia tour, a dream journey happening in March 2026. This isn’t your average wine vacation. We’re talking Tasmanian sparkling wines, gourmet seafood cruises, exclusive vineyard visits, wildlife rescues, private performances, and the kind of curated magic that only Gail can create.   In this episode: Why customized wine travel is worth it (and how it goes way beyond river cruises) Gail’s journey from corporate software sales to luxury wine experiences How to eat oysters and watch wombat surgery (yes, really) What makes Australian wine and food culture so uniquely spectacular The full itinerary and can't-miss highlights of the Swirl Through Australia tour   If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping your way through Australia with like-minded explorers, this is your episode. And your sign to come with us!   Book your spot on the Swirl Through Australia Tour: Available through August 31, 2025.  Use discount Code WINEGUY and get $200 off per person/$400 per couple https://wineloverstravel.com/portfolio/swirl-through-australia/   Connect with Gail Sherman: Wine Lovers Travel: https://wineloverstravel.com/   Connect with Nick: Website: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin TikTok | Instagram | Facebook: @thewineguy.vin

Forget everything you think you know about rosé. In this episode, Nick Elliott—sommelier, chef, winemaker, and full-time rosé enthusiast—paints the podcast pink with a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood wine styles. From ancient origins to modern misconceptions, Nick breaks down how rosé is made (hint: it’s not red + white), where to find the best bottles from around the world, and why rosé should be more than just a summer fling. You'll get the history, the winemaking methods, and a global tour of rosé-producing regions—from Provence to Sicily to South Africa. Plus, Nick shares why rosé is the Swiss Army knife of wine pairings and drops mouthwatering ideas for food combos that range from sushi and seafood to fried chicken and pizza. So whether you're sipping poolside, hosting a dinner party, or just unwinding on a random Tuesday, this episode will convince you: Rosé is not basic—it’s essential. In this episode: The ancient origins of rosé wine and how it evolved The three primary methods of making rosé and why it matters How rosé gets its color Global rosé hotspots to explore: France, Spain, Italy, Oregon, South Africa & more Food pairing ideas for every style of rosé How to enjoy rosé all year long (yes, even in winter!) Why rosé deserves respect in your wine rotation Comment "Rosé All Year" on social and Nick will send you his Rosé Wine & Food Pairing Guide. Email him your favorite rosé, go-to pairing, or dream wine destination: cheers@thewineguy.vin   Connect with Nick: Website: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin TikTok | Instagram | Facebook: @thewineguy.vin

Think Indiana is just cornfields and interstates? Think again. In this episode, host Nick Elliott is joined by Kara Hammes entrepreneur and founder of the Barn Burner, a thoughtfully designed group-friendly Airbnb and event space tucked in the scenic hills of Brown County, Indiana. Kara shares how this under-the-radar Midwest gem has become a go-to for cozy wine tastings, creative retreats, and unforgettable getaways. We explore the real work behind running a successful short-term rental, the magic touches that make guests feel truly seen, and why Brown County is a wine lover’s hidden paradise. Whether you’re curious about Airbnb hosting, searching for your next weekend escape, or just want to hear about fans, blankets, and fire alarms—this one’s for you.   In this episode: Why Brown County, IN should be on your travel radar How Kara built The Barn Burner into a luxury group rental with heart The truth about Airbnb hosting (hint: it’s more than key codes and check-out times) What to look for (and ask!) when booking a rental Midwest wine surprises and Kara’s local favorites: Brown County Winery & Range 46 Small design decisions that lead to big guest satisfaction When hospitality is less about aesthetics and more about care Local Shoutouts: Brown County Winery Range 46 The Barn Burner in Brown County   Connect with Kara: Follow the Barn Burner on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bcbarnburner/ Visit https://www.bcbarnburner.com to learn more or book your stay.   Connect with Nick: Website: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin TikTok | Instagram | Facebook: @thewineguy.vin

Love cheese? Love wine? Let’s talk about how to make them the ultimate duo. In this episode, Nick dives into all things cheese—from fresh mozzarella to funky blue. You'll learn the six basic types of cheese, how to pair each with wine (without overcomplicating it), and how to build a cheese board that’ll impress your guests or just upgrade your solo snacking.   In this episode: Cheese 101: the main types + how to enjoy them Wine pairing tips that actually work How to build a killer cheese board (and serve it right) Nick’s favorite cheeses from around the world   Want the free wine + cheese pairing chart? Just comment “cheese please” on social or email Nick at cheers@thewineguy.vin   Learn more about cheese from my friend, Irene Clemente: https://mrsplatters.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mrs.platters https://www.facebook.com/mrs.platters   Connect with Nick: Website: thewineguy.vin Email: cheers@thewineguy.vin TikTok | Instagram | Facebook: @thewineguy.vin