Tune In to Wine with David Kohl : Bordeaux, Burgundy &; Beyond

Wine & Spirits News 4/1/2025 by David Kohl

David Kohl explains the concept of tariffs on wine & spirits, and why they are a bad idea for the national & local economy. Also, we discuss the pending release of the 2024 Bordeaux vintage.

History’s 1st Wine Critic, Pliny the Elder, of Rome

As a distinguished member of The Roman Senate circa 50 AD, Pliny the Elder proclaimed the health virtues of wine consumed in moderation, and wrote several books on the cultivation of grapes including techniques originating in Ancient Greece. It is fitting that history’s 1st wine critic hailed from Italy, given the volume of indigenous Italian grapes. This fascinating character is profiled in Hugh Johnson’s wonderful book that chronicles the history of wine. #wine #winepodcast #winehistory #plinytheelder #italianwine

Refreshing “Lillet” Wine Aperitif from Bordeaux

Produced in Bordeaux along the Garonne River, Lillet is a refreshing aperitif composed of of Semillon grapes along with citrus liqueur from nearby Spain & Morocco. Lillet offerings are often served as a light “spritz” with tonic or club soda, garnished with strawberries or other fruits. Today we taste a white Lillet, which also is available in rose & red format. #wine #winepodcast #lillet #bordeauxwine

Burgundy Style Wine Blend from Oregon

When Bruno Corneaux, a French vigneron hailing from Dijon, moved to Oregon, he pledged to bring a Burgundian style of winemaking to the region. Today we taste his unique take on “Passetoutgrain” red wine blend of Gamay & Pinot Noir grapes. Bruno’s Domaine Divio selection reflects an abundance of red fruits + spice tone, providing a true gem worth discovering. #winepodcast #wine #vinsbourgogne #gamay #passetoutgrain #oregonwine

Pouilly Fuisse Premier Cru White Burgundy

With white Burgundy Chardonnay prices spiking, it is refreshing to discover value in the realm of Premier Cru Pouilly Fuisse offerings. Today we highlight a sublime selection from Domaine Perraud reflecting opulent notes of baked apple & hazelnut. #winepodcast #wine #vinsbourgogne #chardonnay #whiteburgundy #pouillyfuisse

18 Year Aged Croft Port Wine from Douro Valley

Founded more than 400 years ago in 1588, Croft Estate produces port wines rich in dried fruits & figs within Quinta de Roeda region of Portugal’s Douro Valley. Today we taste a Vintage 2007 aged port that is drinking beautifully yet can still be cellared for future enjoyment. #wine #portwine #porto #dourovalley #croftport

A Presentation of Cognac VSOP

David Kohl presents the Cognac region of France, located just north of Bordeaux. To produce Cognac spirits, grapes are distilled using the eau de vie process and classified in an aging range of VS, VSOP, XO, XXO. Tasting is best in a snifter so that the hand warmth can heat the glass and release aromatics that enhance the experience. #winepodcast #cognac #vsop #france #frenchspirits

Anjou Wine in Loire Valley of France

When David Kohl attended ‘Salon de Vins’ conference in France’s Loire Valley, he singled out David Fourrier’s wine growing estate as the finest offering from Anjou region. A relatively new vigneron with an appetite for risk along with a strong agricultural background, Fourrier produces dry style Chenin Blanc selections that are rich in notes of Anjou’s signature pear terroir and other orchard fruit. #wine #winepodcast #loirevalleywines #anjou #cheninblanc

Recap of trip to Normandy France + thoughts on today’s wine industry

David Kohl describes his recent trip to Normandy, France and discusses current issues in the wine business. #winepodcast #wine #normandy

Chateau de Gayon Vineyard in Madiran, France

David Kohl is fascinated by the story of Chateau de Gayon in Sud Ouest France’s Madiran region. Founded in The 13th Century, the historic winegrowing estate was recently purchased by American architect David Ebert, who followed his dream to own + operated a vineyard in France. Located near The Pyrenees, Chateau de Gayon produces ferociously big wines that are typically aged 10 years prior to release. Today we taste a 2010 offering from Chateau de Gayon : Tannat blended with Cabernet Franc & Fer Servadou. This rich selection reminds David Kohl of a Napa Valley Howell Mountain Zinfandel. Typically retailing in the range of $40 Chateau de Gayon is a true gem for consumers focused on “big wines”. #winepodcast #wine #tannat #bigwines #madiran #redwine