In Episode 110, we take you through a decanting journey using a Hickory Creek 2021 Merlot Carmenere tasted at zero, 30, 75, 120, and 180 minutes. The evolution was striking. Each stage revealed distinct textures, aromas, and clarity. We share practical tips to help you decant with confidence and reflect on how slowing down can deepen your connection to the wine. Whether you’re pouring for friends or sipping solo, this episode offers a fresh appreciation for the ritual.

Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Mike Laing didn’t set out to lead one of Michigan’s most iconic sparkling wine houses, but the vineyard his parents planted in Lake Leelanau in 2002 quietly set the stage. After leaving teaching in Chicago, he joined MAWBY in 2007, just as the winery was doubling down on its sparkling focus. Today, Mike and his brother Peter carry forward MAWBY’s 50-year legacy while pushing boundaries with nonalcoholic bubbly, irreverent branding, and a second label rooted in memory: bigLITTLE. From the philosophy of MAWBYness to the story behind Safe Sex, Mike shares how personal history, customer feedback, and a refusal to be stuffy shape everything they do. Sparkling wine, he insists, should be fun, and Michigan’s wine story is just getting started. Learn more at mawby.wine and biglittlewines.com Contact: info@mawby.wine

Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here: https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/

Episode 108 features an in-depth conversation with the new owners of Free Run Cellars, Tricia Slevin and Prashanth Pais. Drawing inspiration from the Sanskrit phrase “Atithidevo Bhav,” meaning "a guest is akin to God," they’ve crafted Free Run into a place of intentional hospitality and emotional sanctuary. Tune in for a deep dive into the philosophy, design, and quiet excellence that shape this unique Southwest Michigan destination. Learn more at freeruncellars.com or connect directly via contact@frcwine.com and 269-815-6885. Resources referenced in the episode:

https://www.berkshirepublishing.com/title/tggp-2023/

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/most-consumers-will-spend-more-at-businesses-with-clean-restrooms-300815601.html

Michigan Governor’s Cup awards can be found here:https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/04/2025-taste-michigan-governors-cup-results/