Episode 6: Lebanon makes fabulous wines, part of the country’s rich tradition of hospitality and good food. But now Lebanon’s winemakers find themselves in desperate straits under yet another assault by Israel, part of the wider conflict in the Middle East. Andy Neather and Victoria Moore discuss what makes Lebanese wine special and find out how winemakers are coping in the latest war, with contributions from award-winning Anglo-Lebanese writer Michael Karam.

Featured:

Michael Karam's book, Wines of Lebanon: The Journey Continues

Château Ksara "Le Prieuré"

Domaine des Tourelles "Cuvée Pierre Brun"

We also discuss Château Musar, Ixsir and Château Kefraya

Original music by Rosa Neather https://open.spotify.com/track/6U2rMSG1sTA3DAvYlXmE9f?si=Xh4HdR2nQhe6C79hYumNlw

Victoria Moore and Andy Neather answer your burning wine questions. Discover why cork is greener than screw caps, how to handle "unacceptable" (that's not our word) glassware situations and whether you need to be a "super taster" to justify spending more on wine.

Andy also gets stuck in to a question about natural wines, explaining what "funky" really means and how to avoid borderline faulty bottles. And Victoria predicts the next big wine trends—think darker rosés and chilled reds.

Plus, Andy reports from Australia's Yarra Valley, exploring how climate change is reshaping cool-climate winemaking and some seriously good restaurants. From sustainability to stemware etiquette, this episode answers the questions every wine lover wants to know.

Recommendations:

Yeringberg Marsanne-Roussanne Yarra Valley Australia

Fox Tales Winemakers Selection Saperavi 2024 Australia

Wine sales are falling and moderation is up: is this thebeginning of the end for wine? (Spoiler: no…) Andy Neather and Victoria Moorediscuss what falling wine sales and increased interest in moderation mean forwine lovers. They also taste some no and low drinks – and end up with reasons to becheerful about wine’s future in 2026.

Featured:

· Momo kombuchas: https://momo-kombucha.com/

· Saicho sparkling teas https://www.saichodrinks.com/

· Samuel Billaud “Les Grands Terroirs” Chablis2023, France - £30-35 at good independentwine stores

· Moorooduc Estate PinotNoir 2020, Mornington Peninsula, Australia – from £25 at good independent wine stores

Music: Rosa Neather ⁠https://open.spotify.com/track/6U2rMSG1sTA3DAvYlXmE9f?si=Xh4HdR2nQhe6C79hYumNlw