In this episode, we sit down with Nick Jackson, Master of Wine and author of the acclaimed book "Beyond Flavour: The Indispensable Handbook to Blind Wine Tasting." Nick shares his personal journey to becoming a Master of Wine and the pivotal moment when he realized the importance of focusing on a wine's structure rather than just its flavors.

Nick's wine career began at the University of Cambridge, where he was a member of the successful Cambridge University blind wine tasting team. After earning a PhD in Theology, he worked as an auction specialist at Sotheby's in London and later as a buyer for Sotheby's Wine retail store in New York. In 2018, Nick left Sotheby's to start his own fine wine advisory business, Vintage Variation LLC, where he advises private clients, retailers, and other wine businesses.

In "Beyond Flavour," Nick delves into the concept of tasting wines based on their structure and texture, rather than relying solely on flavors. He argues that assessing a wine's acid structure for whites and tannin structure for reds is a more reliable indicator of a wine's identity, especially as producers and regions continue to push the boundaries of traditional winemaking. Nick shares insights on how to navigate the nuances of tannin profiles in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, as well as the challenges of distinguishing Chardonnay and Riesling from specific regions. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of the art of blind wine tasting and how they can embark on this tasting journey with Nick's guidance and his book "Beyond Flavour."

Find out more about Nick: Vintage Variation

Get your hands on Beyond Flavour: Wine Tasting by Structure on Amazon

Connect on Instagram @nickjacksn

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In this episode of the Bottled in China Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Andrew Jefford, an acclaimed journalist, poet, and writer whose expertise spans the diverse realms of wine, whisky, travel, and perfume.

Jefford is a Contributing Editor and columnist for both Decanter and The World of Fine Wine, as well as the Academic Advisor to the Wine Scholar Guild and Co-Chair of Decanter World Wine Awards. He has also broadcast extensively on wine, tea, and other subjects for BBC Radio. With twelve books and guides to his name, including "The New France," "Whisky Island," and his latest work, "Drinking with the Valkyries," Jefford has firmly established himself as a leading voice in the drink and publishing industries.

In this in-depth interview, we delve into the defining moments that propelled Jefford's rise to recognition, and he shares a candid perspective on the intensely competitive environment of the industry. Listeners will gain valuable insights and lessons from Jefford's storied career, which has spanned over three decades.

Additionally, we explore the impact of artificial intelligence on wine writing, discussing whether it is perceived as a threat or a valuable tool for writers like Jefford.

Join us as we gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of wine journalism and publishing.

Four our listeners, we have great news, Andrew has shared a link and code to save 15% on wine books with code ANDREW15

https://academieduvinlibrary.com/collections/shop

*Valid for most titles on our website excludes ebooks and some distribution books*

Connect with Andrew on x/threads/mastodon: @andrewcjefford and Instagram: @andrewcjefford

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Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

In this episode, we delve into the world of wine auctions and the flourishing fine wine scene in Asia.

Today we are joined by Adam Bilbey, Christie's Global Head of Wine and Spirits. Drawing from his wealth of experience in Asia, we explore the notable shifts in fine wine collecting across the regions and the emerging trends that shape this dynamic market.

From its origins in London in 1766, Christie's Auctions has made a lasting impact on the global wine market. Today, we uncover the secrets behind this prestigious institution's successful foray into the Asian market and examine its navigation of this vibrant landscape.

Before joining Christie's, Adam Bilbey held the position of head of Wine and Spirits at Sotheby's Asia, orchestrating remarkable sales that included Transcendent Wines, The Philanthropist's Cellar, and the groundbreaking Wines from the Cellar of Joseph Lau.

Our conversation takes us to the heart of fine wine consumption in Asia, where we shed light on Asia's evolving collecting habits.

Adam Bilbey goes beyond the surface to reveal exciting opportunities for collectors beyond the realm of the most famous wine names and uncovering hidden gems.

Finally, authenticity is a paramount concern in the world of fine wine, and we address this important topic in our discussion. Adam Bilbey imparts straightforward tips and advice on how aspiring wine enthusiasts can embark on their own cellar journey, ensuring that their collection reflects their personal taste and preferences.

Find out more about Christie's Wine & Spirits Wine & Spirits | Christie's (christies.com)

Start your cellar here & find out more about the upcoming Avery Collection discussed in the show.

Follow on Instagram @ Christiesasia

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes!

Find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com

Since 2016, Bottled in China brings you into the food and drink scene through conversations with the some of the most happening personalities. Hosted by Emilie Steckenborn, the show is your one spot for all things food, beer, wine and spirits from across the world. Connect with us on LinkedIn or Instagram @bottled.in.china

Subscribe to Bottled in China now and join us on an unforgettable journey through the world of wine, spirits, and culinary wonders. Podcast available on iTunes, Spotify , online or wherever you listen to your episodes!

Check out our new website & find out more at https://www.thebottledshow.com