What is it that makes Champagne so magical? Does adding some bubbles to a wine really make it worth all the pomp and circumstance - not to mention the price tag? In this episode of Wine Tripping, Amanda McCrossin pops the cork on the world’s most iconic sparkling wine, pours her argument for why Champagne is 100% all its cracked up to be and more.

Starting with the story of her own “aha” moment (spoiler: it involves a $400 bottle, a decanter, and a perfectly cooked scallop) and all the lessons that moment taught her, Amanda breaks down the secrets behind Champagne’s legendary status. From the happy accidents in chilly French caves that gave birth to bubbles, to the strict rules (and rebellious traditions) that set Champagne apart from every other sparkling wine. You’ll learn why Champagne is the ultimate food wine (fried chicken, anyone?), how to decode terms like “Blanc de Blancs” and “grower Champagne,” and why the glass you drink from matters way more than you think.

Along the way, Amanda shares her best tips for visiting the region — like why you should skip January, what to wear to fit in with the locals, and how to find hidden gems in the chalky hills of Reims. Whether you’re a Champagne newbie or a seasoned sipper, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for what’s in your glass — and maybe a craving for potato chips and bubbles. Don’t question it. Trust Amanda on this.

So pour yourself something sparkly, press play, and get ready to fall in love - or fall in love all over again - with Champagne

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

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At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Head to www.cercatravel.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Looking for the chance to live like French Royalty? Does sipping world-class wine on the lawn of a storybook château sound like your idea of the perfect escape? If you answered yes, then Bordeaux — the land of legendary reds, decadent dinners, and a little bit of snobbery (in the best way possible) -- is where you want to go.

In this episode of Wine Tripping, Amanda spills all about her first-ever Bordeaux trip: from marathon meals that would make a gourmand blush (gout, anyone?) to sweaty bike rides in search of pastries, and the friendships forged over glasses of the region’s finest. But Bordeaux isn’t just about first growths and fancy names — Amanda uncorks the secrets behind the famous 1855 classification, reveals why collectors obsess over these bottles, and shows you how to find hidden gems that won’t break the bank.

You’ll learn why Bordeaux is the birthplace of the iconic blend, how to decode the left bank vs. right bank rivalry, and what makes the region’s sweet wines truly magical (hint: it involves a “noble rot”). Amanda shares her pro tips for planning your own Bordeaux adventure, from must-visit châteaux and Michelin-starred meals to the art of wine shopping and the joy of getting a little lost in Saint-Émilion’s cobblestone streets.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just Bordeaux-curious, Amanda’s got you covered with approachable advice, a dash of history, and plenty of stories that’ll make you want to book a flight — or at least uncork a bottle. So, press play, raise a glass, and get inspired to plan your own adventure. Or just impress your friends at your next wine night. (we did say a little snobbery is a good thing).

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

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At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Head to www.cercatravel.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Think you know Oregon wine? Think again. On this episode of Wine Tripping, Amanda McCrossin takes you far beyond the tasting room — straight into the heart (and forests) of the Willamette Valley. What starts as a classic Pinot Noir pilgrimage quickly turns into an unexpected adventure, when a winemaker offers Amanda a choice: vineyard tour or mushroom foraging? For the record, when a winemaker asks you if you want to mushroom foraging, you say yes.

Along the way, Amanda uncorks the real story of Oregon wine — where organic, biodynamic, and regenerative farming aren’t just buzzwords, but a way of life. You’ll learn why Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive here, how to taste like a local and why the region’s untamed spirit is as important as its grapes.

Plus, Amanda’s best tips for planning your own Oregon wine trip, from must-visit AVAs and hidden tasting rooms to the one festival she’d fly back for every year. And, discover why asking locals for advice (and maybe packing a raincoat) will lead you to the best bottles, bites, and stories.

Whether you’re a Pinot pro or just Pinot-curious, Amanda’s got you covered — with plenty of laughs, zero snobbery, and a few surprises you’ll want to experience for yourself. Pour a glass, press play, and get ready to see Oregon in a whole new light.

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

---

At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Download the Cerca App for free now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When you close your eyes and think of Washington State what do you see? Grey skies and perpetual drizzle? A certain hospital with a ridiculously good looking staff of surgeons? Well, on this episode of Wine Tripping, Amanda is here to open your eyes to the real Washington - through the lens of the perfect bottle of wine of course!

Because Washington, with its snow-capped mountains, rolling rivers, and endless evergreens, is one of America’s most exciting wine regions. You might know Napa for Cabernet or Oregon for Pinot Noir, but Washington is a wild card, producing over 80 different grape varieties and styles for every palate and budget. Amanda peels back the layers, revealing the dramatic landscape shifts created by the Cascade Mountains, the refreshing rise of diverse winemakers , and how ancient floods shaped the very soil where these incredible wines now thrive.

From the sun-drenched slopes of the Columbia Valley to the quirky tasting rooms of Walla Walla, you’ll get a taste of the state’s unique terroir, hear Amanda’s firsthand tales — like the time she braved a rainy harvest, only to discover the magic of a perfectly balanced Syrah — and find out why Washington’s wine scene is all about innovation, community, and a little bit of wild spirit.

And of course, Amanda’s got you covered with recommendations for her favorite wineries, restaurants and hidden gems, plus a pro-tip on how you can sample a huge amount of Washington’s wines even if you’re only able to visit Seattle.

Whether you’re dreaming of a Pacific Northwest getaway or just want to bring a little Washington wonder to your next wine night, this episode will help you sip smarter, travel better, and fall in love with the Evergreen State just like Amanda did. (But we make no promises about meeting any ridiculously hot surgeons).

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

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At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Download the Cerca App for free now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ready for an Argentine adventure at the foot of the Andes? In this episode of Wine Tripping, Amanda takes you deep into the heart of South America’s wine country for an unforgettable journey through Mendoza’s legendary vineyards, mouthwatering cuisine, and the magic that happens when steak meets Malbec under a fiery sunset.

You’ll hear Amanda’s firsthand stories—like the moment she thought she couldn’t eat another bite of steak… until the next sip of Malbec changed her mind—and discover why Mendoza is the “best of all worlds”: world-class wines, rustic charm, and a sense of discovery you won’t find in more crowded wine regions.

We’ll explore what makes Argentine Malbec so unique (hint: it’s not originally from Argentina!), the secrets behind perfect food and wine pairings, and Amanda’s favorite wineries, restaurants, and hidden gems—from boutique hotels and empanada cooking classes to the breathtaking views of the Andes.

Plus, get Amanda’s expert tips for planning your own Mendoza adventure: when to go, what to pack, how to get around, and why you should always leave room for one more glass (and maybe a little gelato).

Whether you’re dreaming of your first trip or looking to taste Mendoza from home, this episode will help you sip smarter, travel better, and fall in love with Argentina—one delicious pour at a time.

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

---

At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Download the Cerca App for free now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Confession time: despite Italian wines having a reputation as some of the most legendary wines to ever fill a stemmed glass, Amanda had always been lukewarm on them. They just didn’t stir her imagination that way other regions did.

That is until she was invited to visit Tuscany by one of the OG producers of Brunello di Montalcino - Biondi-Santi. And once she stepped foot on their vineyard, breathed the Tuscan air and tasted the food while sipping from her glass, Amanda finally fell for Italian wines (and also, you know, Italy).

So on this episode of Wine Tripping, Amanda whisks you away to the rolling hills of Tuscany, where every bottle tells a story of place, tradition, and a little bit of Italian magic.

Ever wondered why Italian wine labels never mention the grape? Or what BDT, IGT, DOC, and DOCG mean? After this trip, you’ll be able to decode them like a pro. Amanda cracks open the secrets of Italian wine regions, from the sun-drenched vineyards of Chianti to the storied cellars of Montalcino, explains why Sangiovese is the soul of Tuscany, and gives you some must-know tips on how to survive those winding Tuscan roads,

So pour yourself a glass, press play, and get ready to fall in love with Italy—one region, one grape, and one unforgettable story at a time.

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

---

At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Download the Cerca App for free now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever dreamed of sipping world-class Cabernet right where it’s made — or wondered why Napa Valley is on every wine lover’s bucket list?

In this episode of Wine Tripping, we’re heading straight to the heart of California wine country - and the town Amanda calls home - for an insider’s guide to Napa’s legendary vineyards, unforgettable flavors, and the secrets that make this region so magical.

You’ll discover why Amanda thinks of Napa as “Disneyland for adults,” learn the story behind its rise to global fame (spoiler: it involves a showdown in Paris and some very shocked wine experts), and get Amanda’s best tips for planning the perfect trip. Think must-visit wineries, the best ways to get around, and why it’s totally okay (and even encouraged!) to spit at a tasting.

We’ll break down what makes Napa’s wines so special, from its rare Mediterranean climate to the art of blending and barrel aging, plus share local secrets for dining, exploring, and making the most of every glass.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or sip there every season, this episode will help you taste smarter, travel better, and fall in love with Napa Valley — one unforgettable pour at a time.

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

---

At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Download the Cerca App for free now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever wondered if there’s actual fruit in your wine? (Spoiler: there isn’t—but the story behind those “cherry” and “lemon” notes is fascinating!) In this episode of Wine Tripping, we’re swirling, sniffing, and sipping our way through the art and science of tasting wine. You’ll learn why wine pros use fruity metaphors, how to actually train your nose and palate, and the real impact of glassware and temperature on your next pour.

We’ll break down the flavor families for both red and white wines, demystify those earthy and “funky” notes, explain why it’s OK to spit at your next wine tasting (it really is, we promise), and share practical tips for storing your bottles like a pro (hint: think mushrooms)..

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned sipper, this episode will help you taste smarter, store better, and—most importantly—enjoy get every last drop of enjoyment from your next glass.

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For more, check out Amanda on…

Instagram - @sommvivant

TikTok - @somm_vivant

and on the web - sommvivant.me

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Wine Tripping is Written, Hosted, and Produced by Amanda McCrossin, and Produced by Neil Innes.

Editing and Sound Design by Neil Innes with additional help from Ryan Hammond

Mixing and Mastering by Julian Kwasneski

Executive Produced by Stacey Book, Dominique Ferrari, and Avi Glijansky

---

At Cerca, our goal is to help you explore the world like never before. Visit www.cercatravel.com for Immersive audio travel guides to some of the most amazing places in the world - written and voiced by locals - articles on everything from the best places to eat in Havana to a guide to all of Helsinki's underground bunkers, and the best travel podcasts you can find... like this one!

Want more? Download the Cerca App for free now.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.