Carlos Santos, a Master sommelier, takes us on a journey of his home country and through the diverse wine regions of Portugal, exploring notable wines from Vinho Verde, Douro Valley, Bairrada, and Alentejo. The conversation speaks to the unique characteristics of each region's grape varieties, Carlos' personal and passionate stories behind the wines, and the cultural significance of Portuguese winemaking. With a focus on both red and white wines, the episode highlights the affordability and accessibility of these exceptional wines available in Australia.

Sponsors: 

RIEDEL
White Wine Glasses: RIEDEL Performance Riesling
Red Wine Glasses: RIEDEL Superleggero Hermitage/Syrah and RIEDEL Veloce Syrah/Shiraz

GRAYS.COM

Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine

Socials:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme

 

Key Takeaways:
Vinho Verde is known for its refreshing Alvarinho grape.
The Douro Valley is considered one of the most beautiful wine regions.
Bical from Bairrada offers a rich and textured white wine experience.
Herdade do Spurão showcases the historical significance of Portuguese winemaking.
The conversation emphasises the personal connection to wine and its stories.
Carlos reflects on his journey to becoming a Master Sommelier.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Portuguese Wines

01:14 Exploring Vinho Verde and Alvarinho

08:39 Journey to the Douro Valley

15:39 Discovering the Bical from Bairrada

19:40 Tasting Herdade do Spurão from Alentejo

Carlos Santos, a Master sommelier, takes us on a journey of his home country and through the diverse wine regions of Portugal, exploring notable wines from Vinho Verde, Douro Valley, Bairrada, and Alentejo. The conversation speaks to the unique characteristics of each region's grape varieties, Carlos' personal and passionate stories behind the wines, and the cultural significance of Portuguese winemaking. With a focus on both red and white wines, the episode highlights the affordability and accessibility of these exceptional wines available in Australia.
Sponsors: 
RIEDEL
<ul>
<li>White Wine Glasses:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/performance/riesling-688400015">RIEDEL Performance Riesling</a></li>
<li>Red Wine Glasses: <a href="https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/hermitage-syrah-642500041">RIEDEL Superleggero Hermitage/Syrah</a> and <a href="https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/veloce/syrah-shiraz-633000041?pk_cid=16&amp;pk_keyword=633000041&amp;pk_medium=multifeeds&amp;pk_campaign=GoogleAU&amp;pk_source=GoogleAU&amp;pk_content=HomeGardenKitchenDiningTablewareDrinkwareStemware&amp;utm_source=GoogleAU&amp;mtm_campaign=pmax_riedel_australia&amp;mtm_medium=sea&amp;mtm_source=go&amp;mtm_group=aus&amp;mtm_kwd=&amp;mtm_content=performance_max&amp;mtm_cid=&amp;mtm_placement=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=16235994875&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADemKg28_BptK64LDRZa_FNPqx14i&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw8cHABhC-ARIsAJnY12y2riLNr7VViza3TxV4zUc6oIU_xLlMwjDmWAIO-iHXJxncDXqq3v8aAimdEALw_wcB">RIEDEL Veloce Syrah/Shiraz</a></li>
</ul>
GRAYS.COM
Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: <a href="https://www.grays.com/search/wine">https://www.grays.com/search/wine</a>
Socials:
TikTok:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast">https://www.tiktok.com/@gotsommepodcast</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme">https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme</a>
&nbsp;
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>Vinho Verde is known for its refreshing Alvarinho grape.</li>
<li>The Douro Valley is considered one of the most beautiful wine regions.</li>
<li>Bical from Bairrada offers a rich and textured white wine experience.</li>
<li>Herdade do Spur&atilde;o showcases the historical significance of Portuguese winemaking.</li>
<li>The conversation emphasises the personal connection to wine and its stories.</li>
<li>Carlos reflects on his journey to becoming a Master Sommelier.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Portuguese Wines
01:14 Exploring Vinho Verde and Alvarinho
08:39 Journey to the Douro Valley
15:39 Discovering the Bical from Bairrada
19:40 Tasting Herdade do Spur&atilde;o from Alentejo

'Got Somme' is a podcast for wine lovers who know nothing about what's in their glass. The series will aim to educate listeners on types, tannins and taste to producers, appellations and age.

We speak to the best winemakers in the world finding out how they make the wine that has captured the attention of Master Sommelier Carlos Santos. Carlos will aim to teach radio announcer and novice wine enthusiast Angus O'Loughlin how to discern a good wine from a bad and empower listeners with a skill set good enough to choose the table wine next time you have friends over. 

Fully accessible for people who are deaf or hard of hearing with each episode filmed and posted online with captions at Got Somme

Cheers 🍇 

'Got Somme' is a podcast for wine lovers who know nothing about what's in their glass. The series will aim to educate listeners on types, tannins and taste to producers, appellations and age.
We speak to the best winemakers in the world finding out how they make the wine that has captured the attention of Master Sommelier Carlos Santos. Carlos will aim to teach radio announcer and novice wine enthusiast Angus O'Loughlin how to discern a good wine from a bad and empower listeners with a skill set good enough to choose the table wine next time you have friends over. 
Fully accessible for people who are deaf or hard of hearing with each episode filmed and posted online with captions at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gotsomme/">Got Somme</a>
Cheers 🍇

Wine Podcasts for enthusiasts hosted by a Master Sommelier 🍷

Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast

Got Somme is a podcast for wine lovers who know nothing about what's in the glass. The series will aim to educate listeners on types, tannins and taste to producers, appellations and age.

We speak to the best winemakers in the world finding out how they make the wine that has captured the attention of Master Sommelier Carlos Santos. 

Carlos will aim to teach a novice wine enthusiast Angus how to discern a good wine from a bad and empower listeners with a skill set good enough to choose the table wine next time you have friends over.

Fully accessible for people who are hard of hearing or deaf with each episode being filmed and posted on Instagram @GotSomme and YouTube with captions.

Got Somme is a podcast for wine lovers who know nothing about what's in the glass. The series will aim to educate listeners on types, tannins and taste to producers, appellations and age.
We speak to the best winemakers in the world finding out how they make the wine that has captured the attention of Master Sommelier Carlos Santos. 
Carlos will aim to teach a novice wine enthusiast Angus how to discern a good wine from a bad and empower listeners with a skill set good enough to choose the table wine next time you have friends over.
Fully accessible for people who are hard of hearing or deaf with each episode being filmed and posted on Instagram @GotSomme and YouTube with captions.

Got Somme: Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast

100+ people DEMANDED we make this episode! Master Sommelier talks wines of home - Portugal 🇵🇹

In the final episode of Got Somme for 2025, Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos reflect on the year that was through the wines that defined it.

Rather than revisiting bottles already featured on the podcast, Carlos reveals a personal Wine of the Year driven by memory, place and emotion. A Champagne enjoyed on a beach at sunset, oysters and lobster on hand, and a moment that perfectly captured why wine is never just about what is in the glass. Angus counters with his own standout wine of the year, an Australian Semillon that completely exceeded expectations and cut through a line-up of elite wines to steal the show.

Along the way, they dive deep into Champagne ageing, Blanc de Blancs versus Brut styles, the importance of time on lees, the underrated ageing power of Australian Semillon, and why context and connection matter more than price tags.

The episode also marks the end of an enormous year for Got Somme, celebrating huge audience growth and setting the stage for what is coming in 2026.

SPONSOR:

RIEDEL https://www.riedel.com/en/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/champagne-wine-glass-642500028

(Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off)

 

Key Takeaways:
Wine of the Year is about moments, not price or prestige
Blanc de Blanc Champagne prioritises freshness, acidity and elegance
Time on lees dramatically changes Champagne texture and flavour
Australian Semillon is one of the world’s most underrated ageing wines
Some wines need patience before they truly show their potential
Emotional connection often defines the wines we remember most
Great wine clears the palate as much as it excites it
Context, food and company can elevate a wine beyond expectation

 

Wines Featured in This Episode

Delamotte Blanc de Blancs Champagne

Brokenwood ILR Semillon (Hunter Valley)

 

Chapters

00:00 Wine of the Year reveal begins

01:20 Champagne glassware and tasting context

02:45 Delamotte Blanc de Blancs explained

04:50 Champagne ageing, lees and style differences

07:10 Why freshness beats brioche for some drinkers

09:20 Other standout Champagne moments of the year

11:40 Fortified wines and a historic Rutherglen tasting

13:30 Angus’ Wine of the Year reveal

15:30 Why Australian Semillon is so underrated

16:50 Ageing potential and future evolution

18:50 Got Somme audience growth and 2026 plans

21:00 Final reflections and sign off

 

Welcome to Got Somme, the ultimate wine podcast where Master Sommeliers and wine experts share their tips, blind tasting challenges, and insider knowledge from vineyards around the world. Whether you’re a wine beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, we explore everything from wine education and wine tasting techniques to sparkling wines, red vs white, and the best wines under $30. Subscribe for weekly episodes and join us as we taste, learn, and uncover the stories behind your favourite wines. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their wine knowledge, discover new wine regions, or just enjoy a fun, educational chat about wine.

In the final episode of Got Somme for 2025, Angus O&rsquo;Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos reflect on the year that was through the wines that defined it.
Rather than revisiting bottles already featured on the podcast, Carlos reveals a personal Wine of the Year driven by memory, place and emotion. A Champagne enjoyed on a beach at sunset, oysters and lobster on hand, and a moment that perfectly captured why wine is never just about what is in the glass. Angus counters with his own standout wine of the year, an Australian Semillon that completely exceeded expectations and cut through a line-up of elite wines to steal the show.
Along the way, they dive deep into Champagne ageing, Blanc de Blancs versus Brut styles, the importance of time on lees, the underrated ageing power of Australian Semillon, and why context and connection matter more than price tags.
The episode also marks the end of an enormous year for Got Somme, celebrating huge audience growth and setting the stage for what is coming in 2026.
SPONSOR:
RIEDEL <a href="https://www.riedel.com/en/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/champagne-wine-glass-642500028">https://www.riedel.com/en/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/champagne-wine-glass-642500028</a>
(Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off)
&nbsp;
Key Takeaways:
<ul>
<li>Wine of the Year is about moments, not price or prestige</li>
<li>Blanc de Blanc Champagne prioritises freshness, acidity and elegance</li>
<li>Time on lees dramatically changes Champagne texture and flavour</li>
<li>Australian Semillon is one of the world&rsquo;s most underrated ageing wines</li>
<li>Some wines need patience before they truly show their potential</li>
<li>Emotional connection often defines the wines we remember most</li>
<li>Great wine clears the palate as much as it excites it</li>
<li>Context, food and company can elevate a wine beyond expectation</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Wines Featured in This Episode
Delamotte Blanc de Blancs Champagne
Brokenwood ILR Semillon (Hunter Valley)
&nbsp;
Chapters
00:00 Wine of the Year reveal begins
01:20 Champagne glassware and tasting context
02:45 Delamotte Blanc de Blancs explained
04:50 Champagne ageing, lees and style differences
07:10 Why freshness beats brioche for some drinkers
09:20 Other standout Champagne moments of the year
11:40 Fortified wines and a historic Rutherglen tasting
13:30 Angus&rsquo; Wine of the Year reveal
15:30 Why Australian Semillon is so underrated
16:50 Ageing potential and future evolution
18:50 Got Somme audience growth and 2026 plans
21:00 Final reflections and sign off
&nbsp;
Welcome to Got Somme, the ultimate wine podcast where Master Sommeliers and wine experts share their tips, blind tasting challenges, and insider knowledge from vineyards around the world. Whether you&rsquo;re a wine beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, we explore everything from wine education and wine tasting techniques to sparkling wines, red vs white, and the best wines under $30. Subscribe for weekly episodes and join us as we taste, learn, and uncover the stories behind your favourite wines. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their wine knowledge, discover new wine regions, or just enjoy a fun, educational chat about wine.

The BEST Wine of 2025: A Master Sommelier’s Top Pick

In this episode of Got Somme, Angus O’Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos take you into one of Italy’s most iconic wine rivalries: Barolo vs Barbaresco.

We break down everything from grape variety, regional differences, aging laws, price, aromas, palate structure, and why—despite their similarities—one of these wines consistently demands 30 to 40 percent more at retail.

And yes… we revisit the infamous first attempt at this episode, where a $500 bottle of Barolo turned out to be faulty. Cork taint. Wet cardboard. Pain.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAmb5p34Q-I&t=20s 

If you’ve ever wondered:
– Why is Barolo more expensive?
– Can you actually tell them apart in a blind tasting?
– What aromas define Nebbiolo?
– Which wine should YOU be buying?

…this is your episode.

Watch Carlos Blind Taste this Barolo before we recorded the episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31Sawb7Elp4&t=5s 

SPONSORS

Grays.com
Where we sourced today’s beautifully aged bottles
→ Buy well-stored, premium wine (and avoid the faulty disasters we once had)

https://www.grays.com/search/wine

RIEDEL
We are tasting from the RIEDEL Performance Pinot Noir glasses—perfect for Nebbiolo’s aromatics.

https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller

(Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off)

KEY MOMENTS & TAKEAWAYS

1. Barolo vs Barbaresco: What’s the Actual Difference?

Both wines are made from Nebbiolo, grown in Piedmont, but come from different sub-regions:


Barolo: Southwest of Alba, slightly cooler, higher altitude


Barbaresco: Northeast of Alba, warmer, more perfumed

Even though the geographical distance is small, the microclimate differences lead to two very different personalities in the glass.

2. Aging Laws That Drive the Price

Barolo DOCG


38 months aging (At least 18 months in oak)


Reserva: 62 months aging minimum (at least 18 months in oak)

Barbaresco DOCG


26 months aging (9 months in oak)


Reserva: 50 months aging (9 months in oak)

Holding wine for 3–5 years before it earns $1 dramatically affects price—and explains why Barolo is typically more expensive.

3. Appearance: What Nebbiolo Looks Like

Both wines show the classic:


Brick/rust rim


Light colour intensity


Transparent core

But today, the Barbaresco is noticeably lighter at the rim than the Barolo—something even Carlos says isn’t always the case.

4. Nose: The Aroma Clues

Barbaresco


More perfumed


More lifted red fruits


Floral (rose, dried flowers)


Slightly softer aromas

Barolo


More rustic and powerful


Leather


Tar and asphalt


Tobacco


Darker, deeper aromatics

Carlos also explains why Nebbiolo often shows “tar”—a hallmark of the grape and winemaking style.

5. Palate: Similar DNA, Different Personalities

Both wines show:


High tannin


High acidity


Elevated alcohol


Intense structure

But the Barbaresco presents as more elegant and delicate, while the Barolo pushes toward intensity, rustic tannin, and power.

As Angus puts it:

“They’re identical twins wearing different outfits.”

 

FOLLOW GOT SOMME

Instagram and TikTok: @GotSomme
Studio bookings: SessionInProgress.com.au

In this episode of&nbsp;Got Somme, Angus O&rsquo;Loughlin and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos take you&nbsp;into one of Italy&rsquo;s most iconic wine rivalries: Barolo vs Barbaresco.
We break down everything from grape variety, regional differences, aging laws, price, aromas, palate structure, and why&mdash;despite their similarities&mdash;one of these wines consistently demands 30 to 40 percent more at retail.
And yes&hellip; we revisit the infamous first attempt at this episode, where a $500 bottle of Barolo turned out to be faulty. Cork taint. Wet cardboard. Pain.
Watch here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAmb5p34Q-I&amp;t=20s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAmb5p34Q-I&amp;t=20s</a>&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;ve ever wondered: &ndash; Why is Barolo more expensive? &ndash; Can you actually tell them apart in a blind tasting? &ndash; What aromas define Nebbiolo? &ndash; Which wine should YOU be buying?
&hellip;this is your episode.
Watch Carlos Blind Taste this Barolo before we recorded the episode here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31Sawb7Elp4&amp;t=5s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31Sawb7Elp4&amp;t=5s</a>&nbsp;
SPONSORS
Grays.com Where we sourced today&rsquo;s beautifully aged bottles &rarr; Buy well-stored, premium wine (and avoid the faulty disasters we once had)
<a href="https://www.grays.com/search/wine">https://www.grays.com/search/wine</a>
RIEDEL We are tasting from the RIEDEL Performance Pinot Noir glasses&mdash;perfect for Nebbiolo&rsquo;s aromatics.
<a href="https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller">https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller</a>
(Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off)
<hr data-start="2562" data-end="2565">
KEY MOMENTS &amp; TAKEAWAYS
1. Barolo vs Barbaresco: What&rsquo;s the Actual Difference?
Both wines are made from Nebbiolo, grown in Piedmont, but come from different sub-regions:
<ul data-start="2760" data-end="2886">
<li data-start="2760" data-end="2827">
Barolo: Southwest of Alba, slightly cooler, higher altitude
</li>
<li data-start="2828" data-end="2886">
Barbaresco: Northeast of Alba, warmer, more perfumed
</li>
</ul>
Even though the geographical distance is small, the microclimate differences lead to two very different personalities in the glass.
<hr data-start="3025" data-end="3028">
2. Aging Laws That Drive the Price
Barolo DOCG
<ul data-start="3133" data-end="3219">
<li data-start="3133" data-end="3152">
38 months aging (At least 18 months in oak)
</li>
<li data-start="3183" data-end="3219">
Reserva: 62 months aging minimum (at&nbsp;least 18 months in oak)
</li>
</ul>
Barbaresco DOCG
<ul data-start="3243" data-end="3311">
<li data-start="3243" data-end="3262">
26 months aging (9 months in oak)
</li>
<li data-start="3283" data-end="3311">
Reserva: 50 months aging (9 months in oak)
</li>
</ul>
Holding wine for 3&ndash;5 years before it earns $1 dramatically affects price&mdash;and explains why Barolo is typically more expensive.
<hr data-start="3444" data-end="3447">
3. Appearance: What Nebbiolo Looks Like
Both wines show the classic:
<ul data-start="3530" data-end="3608">
<li data-start="3530" data-end="3552">
Brick/rust rim
</li>
<li data-start="3553" data-end="3583">
Light colour intensity
</li>
<li data-start="3584" data-end="3608">
Transparent core
</li>
</ul>
But today, the Barbaresco is noticeably lighter at the rim than the Barolo&mdash;something even Carlos says isn&rsquo;t always the case.
<hr data-start="3740" data-end="3743">
4. Nose: The Aroma Clues
Barbaresco
<ul data-start="3848" data-end="3952">
<li data-start="3848" data-end="3865">
More perfumed
</li>
<li data-start="3866" data-end="3892">
More lifted red fruits
</li>
<li data-start="3893" data-end="3925">
Floral (rose, dried flowers)
</li>
<li data-start="3926" data-end="3952">
Slightly softer aromas
</li>
</ul>
Barolo
<ul data-start="3967" data-end="4068">
<li data-start="3967" data-end="3995">
More rustic and powerful
</li>
<li data-start="3996" data-end="4007">
Leather
</li>
<li data-start="4008" data-end="4027">
Tar and asphalt
</li>
<li data-start="4028" data-end="4039">
Tobacco
</li>
<li data-start="4040" data-end="4068">
Darker, deeper aromatics
</li>
</ul>
Carlos also explains why Nebbiolo often shows &ldquo;tar&rdquo;&mdash;a hallmark of the grape and winemaking style.
<hr data-start="4171" data-end="4174">
5. Palate: Similar DNA, Different Personalities
Both wines show:
<ul data-start="4253" data-end="4328">
<li data-start="4253" data-end="4268">
High tannin
</li>
<li data-start="4269" data-end="4285">
High acidity
</li>
<li data-start="4286" data-end="4306">
Elevated alcohol
</li>
<li data-start="4307" data-end="4328">
Intense structure
</li>
</ul>
But the Barbaresco presents as more elegant and delicate, while the Barolo pushes toward intensity, rustic tannin, and power.
As Angus puts it:
<blockquote data-start="4493" data-end="4547">
&ldquo;They&rsquo;re identical twins wearing different outfits.&rdquo;
</blockquote>
<hr data-start="4549" data-end="4552">
&nbsp;
FOLLOW GOT SOMME
Instagram and TikTok:&nbsp;@GotSomme Studio bookings: SessionInProgress.com.au

Barolo vs Barbaresco: Which One Should You Actually Buy?

In this episode, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos dive into Mencia, a red grape variety from the northwest of Spain that sits beautifully between Pinot Noir, Gamay and Syrah. If you love Pinot but want something a little richer, or you are looking for a gateway into bolder reds, Mencia might be your new favourite varietal.

Carlos breaks down the regions of Bierzo and Galicia, how altitude and maritime influence shape the wine, and why Mencia has become a quiet favourite among sommeliers. Angus approaches the wine blind and shares how he assesses the colour, nose and palate as a novice working on his tasting skills.

Perfect for wine lovers who want to expand beyond the usual Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet.

Sponsors: 

RIEDEL Wine Glasses: https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller

(Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off)

Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine

Key Talking Points


Mencia often sits between Pinot Noir and Syrah in weight and structure


Mostly grown in Bierzo and Galicia in northwest Spain


Expect red fruits, violet, rose, medium body and silky tannins


A great option for Pinot Noir drinkers wanting something more generous


Understanding how altitude, climate and maritime influence shape the style


Why Spain’s wine renaissance in the late 20th century elevated Mencia


Blind tasting approach for novices

Chapters

00:00 — What is Mencia?
Setting up the grape, why it’s confusing and why it matters.

00:16 — Why Pinot Noir Drinkers Should Try It
Positioning Mencia for the Australian palate and explaining its style.

01:08 — Carlos’s First Encounters With Mencia
Origin story, credibility and early exposure.

01:53 — What Mencia Tastes Like (Compared to Syrah, Gamay and Pinot)
The clearest flavour and structure comparison.

02:30 — Is Mencia the Gateway Back to Bigger Reds?
Bridging lighter drinkers to fuller styles.

03:32 — Blind Tasting: Appearance and Aroma
The start of the formal assessment.

05:58 — Palate Breakdown
Tannins, body, fruit profile, balance — the core tasting notes.

08:15 — Old World vs New World Guess
Great chapter for wine geeks.

10:33 — Where Mencia Grows and Why It Matters
Bierzo, Galicia, altitude, climate — the terroir chapter.

13:45 — Spain’s Wine Revival and Mencia’s Comeback
History in context, tied to modern quality.

14:56 — Final Thoughts and What to Try Next
Clear closing chapter.

Tasting Notes (From the Episode)

Appearance: Deep ruby, opaque core, richer colour than Gamay or Pinot
Nose: Red roses, violets, ripe strawberry, raspberry, light pepper
Palate: Medium body, silky tannins, red and black fruit mix, gentle warmth, balanced finish
Alcohol: Listed at 13.5 percent
Overall: Fruit forward, expressive, high quality for the price

 

Mencia wine, Pinot Noir alternatives, Spanish red wine, Bierzo wine region, Galicia wine, Master Sommelier podcast, wine tasting tips, medium bodied red wine, Gamay vs Mencia, Syrah alternatives, GotSom podcast, Carlos Santos sommelier, Angus O'Loughlin wine

In this episode, Angus and Master Sommelier Carlos Santos dive into Mencia, a red grape variety from the northwest of Spain that sits beautifully between Pinot Noir, Gamay and Syrah. If you love Pinot but want something a little richer, or you are looking for a gateway into bolder reds, Mencia might be your new favourite varietal.
Carlos breaks down the regions of Bierzo and Galicia, how altitude and maritime influence shape the wine, and why Mencia has become a quiet favourite among sommeliers. Angus approaches the wine blind and shares how he assesses the colour, nose and palate as a novice working on his tasting skills.
Perfect for wine lovers who want to expand beyond the usual Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet.
Sponsors: 
RIEDEL Wine Glasses:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller">https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop#sort=bestSeller</a>
(Australians use code: GOTSOMME New Zealand: GOTSOMMENZ at check out for 20% off)
Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: <a href="https://www.grays.com/search/wine">https://www.grays.com/search/wine</a>
Key Talking Points
<ul data-start="1904" data-end="2398">
<li data-start="1904" data-end="1986">
Mencia often sits between Pinot Noir and Syrah in weight and structure
</li>
<li data-start="1987" data-end="2052">
Mostly grown in Bierzo and Galicia in northwest Spain
</li>
<li data-start="2053" data-end="2131">
Expect red fruits, violet, rose, medium body and silky tannins
</li>
<li data-start="2132" data-end="2206">
A great option for Pinot Noir drinkers wanting something more generous
</li>
<li data-start="2207" data-end="2285">
Understanding how altitude, climate and maritime influence shape the style
</li>
<li data-start="2286" data-end="2359">
Why Spain&rsquo;s wine renaissance in the late 20th century elevated Mencia
</li>
<li data-start="2360" data-end="2398">
Blind tasting approach for novices
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="974" data-end="977">
Chapters
00:00 &mdash; What is Mencia? Setting up the grape, why it&rsquo;s confusing and why it matters.
00:16 &mdash; Why Pinot Noir Drinkers Should Try It Positioning Mencia for the Australian palate and explaining its style.
01:08 &mdash; Carlos&rsquo;s First Encounters With Mencia Origin story, credibility and early exposure.
01:53 &mdash; What Mencia Tastes Like (Compared to Syrah, Gamay and Pinot) The clearest flavour and structure comparison.
02:30 &mdash; Is Mencia the Gateway Back to Bigger Reds? Bridging lighter drinkers to fuller styles.
03:32 &mdash; Blind Tasting: Appearance and Aroma The start of the formal assessment.
05:58 &mdash; Palate Breakdown Tannins, body, fruit profile, balance &mdash; the core tasting notes.
08:15 &mdash; Old World vs New World Guess Great chapter for wine geeks.
10:33 &mdash; Where Mencia Grows and Why It Matters Bierzo, Galicia, altitude, climate &mdash; the terroir chapter.
13:45 &mdash; Spain&rsquo;s Wine Revival and Mencia&rsquo;s Comeback History in context, tied to modern quality.
14:56 &mdash; Final Thoughts and What to Try Next Clear closing chapter.
<hr data-start="2400" data-end="2403">
Tasting Notes (From the Episode)
Appearance: Deep ruby, opaque core, richer colour than Gamay or Pinot Nose: Red roses, violets, ripe strawberry, raspberry, light pepper Palate: Medium body, silky tannins, red and black fruit mix, gentle warmth, balanced finish Alcohol: Listed at 13.5 percent Overall: Fruit forward, expressive, high quality for the price
<hr data-start="2800" data-end="2803">
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Mencia wine, Pinot Noir alternatives, Spanish red wine, Bierzo wine region, Galicia wine, Master Sommelier podcast, wine tasting tips, medium bodied red wine, Gamay vs Mencia, Syrah alternatives, GotSom podcast, Carlos Santos sommelier, Angus O'Loughlin wine

100+ people DEMANDED we make this episode! Master Sommelier talks wines of home - Portugal 🇵🇹

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