Summary

In this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster sits down with Kimberly Noelle Charles, a marketing visionary and co-founder of Come Together – A Community for Wine, to uncork the story behind her remarkable career and the inspiration for the Come Over October movement. Together, they explore how wine can break down barriers, spark connection, and turn simple gatherings into unforgettable experiences. From pairing insights to myth-busting moments, Laurie and Kimberly celebrate a more inclusive, joyful approach to wine—one that reminds us it’s not about perfection, it’s about coming together, glass in hand.

Takeaways

• Kimberly’s wine journey began as a college sommelier, blending curiosity with hospitality.
• Wine connects effortlessly to history, science, and culture—making every pour a lesson in life.
• The Come Over October campaign inspires people to open bottles and open conversations. Wine’s true magic lies in how it brings people and memories together.
• Sparkling wine deserves a seat at every table—not just the celebration one.
• You don’t need credentials to appreciate wine—just curiosity and good company.

Wines Tasted

Gruet Brut Sparkling Wine

Fox Run Unoaked Chardonnay

Check out Laurie's upcoming Wine Events & Tours:

11/5 - Uncork the Holidays at The Ivy Cafe in Easton, MD

12/10 - Bubbly Bash 2025 Virtual Tasting

10/12-17, 2026 Treasures of Tuscany Wine Tour

Support the show

SUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today!

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
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Want to go to Tuscany with Laurie in 2026? Email laurie@thewinecoach.com for a brochure all about her Treasures of Tuscany Wine Tour October 12-17, 2026--A wine filled week exploring the best wine and food that Tuscany has to offer!

Summary

In this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach®, uncorks a conversation with Monika Elling, founder and CEO of Lo Secco Prosecco. Together, they dive into the story behind this innovative zero-sugar Prosecco that’s changing the way we think about sparkling wine. Monika shares her inspiring journey into the wine world, her mission to bring nutritional transparency to the industry, and the challenges of crafting a high-quality, low-sugar wine that still delivers on flavor and fun. They also explore how her personal health journey shaped her vision for wellness-focused wines and the exciting future of mindful wine marketing.

Takeaways

• Monika Elling champions zero sugar as the soul of LoSecco Prosecco.
• She’s leading the charge for nutritional transparency in wine.
• LoSecco Prosecco pairs perfectly with today’s wellness-minded lifestyle.
• Monika’s background in health and nutrition shapes every bottle she creates.
• She calls for bold innovation and honesty in the wine industry.

Wines Tasted

Lo Secco Prosecco $24.99

Find out more about Lo Secco Prosecco CLICK HERE

Mark your calendars for 12/10 for my virtual tasting Bubbly Bash 2025 where we'll try a few of my favorite bubblies and toast to the great year of wine we have shared!

Support the show

SUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today!

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

Summary

In this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster, The Wine Coach®, sits down with Lauren Zimmerman, head winemaker at Port of Leonardtown Winery. Lauren shares her journey from Canada to Maryland and what drew her into the world of wine. Together they dive into the unique cooperative model behind Port of Leonardtown, the winery’s standout bottles like the Viognier and Captain’s Table Red Blend, and the sparkling red crafted for their 15th anniversary.

Lauren also opens up about the evolving Maryland wine scene, the impact of women winemakers, and her advice for anyone dreaming of stepping into the cellar. Whether you’re curious about local wines, cooperative wineries, or simply love a good glass with a great story, this conversation will leave you inspired—and thirsty.

Takeaways

1. Port of Leonardtown Winery is a unique cooperative winery in Maryland.
2. The winery's Viognier is part of their premium Black Label series.
3. Captain's Table Red Blend won Best Red Blend at the Atlantic Seaboard wine competition.
4. The winery created a special edition sparkling red, Bubbly Noir for their 15th anniversary.
5. Lauren emphasizes the growing role of women in the Maryland and advises aspiring winemakers to volunteer and gain experience in different areas.

Wines Tasted

Viognier

Captains Table Red

Bubbly Noir

Check out Lauren's Instagram for behind the scenes winemaking scoop and POL Winery website for info on visiting the winery.

Support the show

SUPPORT the show by sending a small donation to help us offset the costs of production...you'll get a shout out on the show and get special subscriber only benefits. Subscribe Today!

Follow The Sipping Point on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio or wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss an episode!

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @thewinecoach to get video footage of the podcasts an more.

Let's Stay Connected:
Instagram @thewinecoach
Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster