Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including Sip & Style in Oxford, MD on 2/26 and Wine & Punchlines on 2/27 in Bridgeville, DE.

In this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster sits down with Mary Taylor, founder of Mary Taylor Wine, to explore how she built a groundbreaking import company centered on authentic, affordable European wines. Mary shares how her passion for travel and discovery led her to create a négociant-style model that spotlights small, independent growers and puts their names—rather than flashy brands—front and center.

We dive into what terroir really means, why biodiversity in the vineyard matters more than ever, and how traditional winemaking practices across France, Spain, and Italy are shaping some of today’s best values. Mary also unpacks the realities of navigating the U.S. wine market, including how tariffs and global economics impact pricing—and how she continues to deliver exceptional quality without sacrificing integrity.

From uncovering lesser-known grape varieties to championing family-owned wineries, Mary’s mission is clear: make honest, place-driven wines accessible to everyday drinkers. The conversation wraps with her personal wine favorites and the pure joy of exploring new regions, grapes, and flavors—because great wine should feel like a passport in a glass.

Wines Tasted

Mary Taylor Anjou Blanc

Mary Taylor Castilla y Leon

Mary Taylor Machuela

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

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Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including Sip & Style in Oxford, MD on 2/26 and Wine & Punchlines on 2/27 in Bridgeville, DE.

In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Johnson of Spy Valley Wines for a thoughtful and refreshingly honest conversation about family, place, and the future of wine. Amanda shares the story behind her family’s winemaking journey, what makes Spy Valley’s wines so distinctive, and why sustainability isn’t a trend for them—it’s a responsibility. We dive into how thoughtful viticulture shows up in the glass, exploring the vibrant character of their Sauvignon Blanc and the elegance of their Pinot Noir, while also touching on the exciting shifts happening across the wine world right now. It’s a conversation rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and grounded in deep respect for the land.

Check out the Spy Valley Winery website for more about the winery, wines & their sustainability efforts.

WInes Tasted

Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc

Spy Valley Pinot Noir

Learn more about the Marlborough region at AppellationMarlborough.com

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

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Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including a few spaces still left in her Tuscany tour this October!

In this episode Laurie Forster sits down with Allister Ashmead of Elderton Wines for a conversation that may just change how you think about Australian wine. Allister shares the remarkable family history behind Elderton, from historic Barossa vineyards to a modern, sustainability-focused winery, while unpacking some of the biggest misconceptions that still surround Australian wines today. The discussion dives into what truly sets Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon apart, why old-vine vineyards matter, and the story behind Elderton’s iconic Command Shiraz. Along the way, Laurie and Allister talk candidly about family dynamics in a multi-generational wine business, personal wine preferences, and the result is an eye-opening, approachable look at the depth, diversity, and undeniable quality of Australian wine.

Wines Tasted

Elderton Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 $33

Elderton Command Shiraz 2018 $90

Support the show

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.

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This episode of The Sipping Point dives into one of Maryland’s most iconic pairings—wine and oysters—through the lens of the new Sip & Shuck promotion launching February 1st. Joined by Matthew Scales of the Maryland Department of Agriculture and Regina McCarthy, General Manager of The Vineyards at Dodon, we explore how Maryland wine, beer, and spirits come together with local oysters to celebrate the state’s rich food and beverage culture. From why oysters and wine work so well together to how consumers can sip, shuck, and win prizes along the way, this conversation is a delicious look at eating and drinking local—Maryland style.

Check out all the details on Maryland Sip& Shuck and download to app so you can start sipping and winning prizes: https://marylandsbest.maryland.gov/sipandshuck/

Wines Tasted

Dodon Sauvignon Blanc 2023 $36

Dodon Chardonnay 2022 $34

Use code OYSTER for discounted shipping rates when you purchase wine at https://www.dodonvineyards.com/

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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:
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Facebook @winecoach
TikTok @LaurieForster

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including a few spaces still left in her Tuscany tour this October!

In this episode of The Sipping Point, Laurie Forster sits down with Ken MacKenzie, founder of Fresh Victor, to talk tequila, mixers, and the power of great ingredients to bring people together. Ken shares how a move to Guadalajara sparked a deep appreciation for tequila culture and set him on a path from importing premium agave spirits to creating a premium line of all-natural, cold-pressed mixers designed to elevate every pour.

They explore the evolution of tequila in the U.S., the challenges of maintaining freshness and quality at scale, and why real ingredients matter—whether you’re mixing cocktails, low-alcohol drinks, or going spirit-free. The conversation also dives into flavor versatility, the rise of non-alcoholic options, and Ken’s bigger vision of creating meaningful connections through thoughtfully made drinks, one glass at a time.

Check out all the amazing cocktail mixers at FreshVictor.com and use code WINECOACH20 to get 20% off sitewide!

Support the show

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

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including a few spaces still left in her Tuscany tour this October!

In this episode, David Kong shares how he went from finance to founding Glasvin, the wine glass brand redefining how wine should actually taste. We dig into why glass construction matters more than most people realize, how the right shape can elevate the entire tasting experience, and what separates a great wine glass from the ones quietly sabotaging your favorite bottle. David also talks about expanding the Glasvin lineup, proper care and maintenance (yes, your dishwasher has opinions), and why the brand has become a go-to in top restaurants. Along the way, he introduces Somm.ai, his data-driven platform helping wineries and restaurants sell smarter. The conversation wraps with a relaxed, wine-nerd-fueled chat about favorite bottles—because no good wine talk should end without one.

Check out the Glasvin line of glasses at Glas.vin and if you use code SIPPING you'll receive a 10% discount off your purchase.

Support the show

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

Check out all the great events Laurie has on the calendar in 2026 on her website at TheWineCoach.com/events including a few spaces still left in her Tuscany tour this October!

In this engaging conversation, Joe Roberts and Laurie Forster unpack the current state of the wine industry, from shifting consumption trends and health-conscious choices to the rise of non-alcoholic options. They explore what’s bubbling up right now—literally—with sparkling wines, alternative white varieties, lighter reds, and why Gamay and Beaujolais may be poised for a serious moment. Along the way, Joe shares insights from his latest book, How to Win at Wine, reinforcing a refreshingly simple message: wine should be enjoyed with curiosity and confidence, not confusion or intimidation. It’s a smart, approachable conversation for anyone who wants to drink better, stress less, and actually enjoy what’s in their glass.

Featured Wines

Segura Viudas Heredad Brut Reserva Cava, Penedes, Spain $30

Mary Taylor Anjou Blanc, Loire Valley, France $14,69

Joseph Mellot Chinon, Loire Valley, France $18

Gilles Coperet Morgon Cru Beaujolais, Burgundy, France $22

Check out Joe's website at OneWineDude.com to find out more about his book including How to Win at Wine

Support the show

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

In this episode, Laurie Forster speaks with Alice Tétienne from the House of Henriot about the rich history of the champagne house, founded by a woman in 1808. They delve into the art of blending different grape varieties and crus to create unique champagnes, including the signature Brut Souverain and Blanc de Blancs. Alice shares insights on the challenges posed by climate change, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in viticulture.

Takeaways

• Henriot respects the history and terroir of its vineyards.
• Blending different crus is essential to creating unique champagnes.
• Climate change poses significant challenges to champagne production.
• Sustainable practices are crucial for the future of viticulture.
• The choice of glassware can greatly enhance the tasting experience.
• Vintage champagnes require long aging and careful monitoring.

Wines Tasted
Henriot Brut Souverain
Henriot Blanc de Blancs
Henriot Cuvee Hemera 2008

Support the show

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