Wine Access Unfiltered: Official Podcast and Wine Club

We’re closing out the year with a celebratory "favorites" episode, where Eduardo Dingler and Laura Koffer join Amanda to relive their top wine discoveries and dining experiences of 2024. Along the way, they explore the resurgence of volcanic terroirs, provide pro pairing tips (Chardonnay with tacos, anyone?), and debate the quirks of wine gadgets. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious wine lover, this episode is packed with recommendations, insider stories, and plenty of inspiration to make 2025 your most delicious year yet. Cheers!

PJ Awe, Director of Marketing and Sales at Amorim Cork America, joins us to dive into cork’s fascinating journey from bark to bottle. As one of the most sustainable products on the planet, cork plays a bigger role than many wine drinkers might realize. We discuss why storing wine bottles on their sides might not be necessary and why cork taint (TCA) is about to be a thing of the past. Geek out with us as we uncork one of Lodi's oldest-vine Carignane's and take you down one of the most unexpected rabbit holes of your life.

Wine Featured On This Episode:

We’re crashing one of Oregon’s most meaningful wine events to give you exclusive access to some of the biggest stars in the wine industry. Amanda sits down with Michael Fay (Domaine Serene), Claire Carver (Big Table Farm), Thomas Savre (Lingua Franca), and Alban Debeaulieu (Abbott Claim) to discuss their rise to stardom, the surprising wines that have inspired them along the way, and why they believe Oregon is the best wine-producing region in the world.

Wine Featured On This Episode:

This isn’t the end, it’s actually just the beginning of a major revolution, according to this week’s guest—Master Sommelier (and importer/distributor) Ken Frederickson. Ken joins us to discuss how the landscape has shifted in the last 20 years and what he believes wine drinkers can look forward to in the coming decades. From a surprising union between wine and spirits to why restaurants might shift away from selling wines by the bottle, we’re covering all the ways the wine industry is adapting for the next generation of wine drinkers.

Wine Featured On This Episode:

Wine collectors love to talk about the good old days—when cult wines were going for a fraction of the price they are today and didn’t have waiting lists. How did brands like Harlan and Screaming Eagle achieve cult status? And is it still possible to achieve that today? On this episode, we’re hunting for the next big thing with the dynamic father-daughter-duo from one of the fastest-growing wine YouTube channels: “Our Pour Decisions.” What are their secrets to spotting diamonds in the rough? What are the ones that got away? And which winemaker do they think will be the next big thing?

Wine Featured On This Episode:

Konstantin Baum is Germany’s youngest Master of Wine and one of the most followed YouTube wine experts, but even he grapples with one of the most common problems for wine drinkers—figuring out what you like and being confident in your choices. In this episode we’re helping you discover YOUR wine palate, including a DIY project that will help you become a better taster (that even your kids might enjoy). Join us for never-before-shared stories of feeling insecure and nervous at wine tastings, the surprising South African wine no one expected to love, and more.

Wine Featured On This Episode:

If you’re looking for value, you can have place or you can have grape, but you usually can’t have both. That’s why we enlisted Vince Anter from the award-winning wine show V is for Vino, who has been termed “the Bourdain of Wine TV.” He joins Amanda to discuss their favorite lesser-known wine regions … because exploring different wine regions allows you to experience unique flavors and blends. What’s the best way to find wine from unexpected places? What’s the best way to explore those lesser-known wine regions? And is Lambrusco the best pizza wine out there? 

Wine Featured On This Episode

A pro tip for buying wine is to familiarize yourself with wine importers since they can be the key to unlocking your next favorite bottle. But how do wine importers go about discovering under-the-radar producers? Our good friends Jonah and Sara Beer of True North Imports join the program to share their stories from the wine trail and what their secrets are to spotting that next big thing. Plus, don’t miss how an unusual inscription on a wine bottle led them on a path to find their holy grail.

Wine Featured On This Episode:

Caleb Mosley proudly waltzed into his 4th grade class covered in Cabernet stains so it’s no surprise that he’s now the Executive Director of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers. Having worked with some of the most revered vineyards in California, he joins us to discuss how farming impacts what’s in your glass and how understanding its role in the winemaking process can lead to savvier wine buying. From whether “old vines” means anything to how the Napa elite decide what to plant in the vineyard, this episode is your backstage pass into the vineyard. Want access to Napa Valley’s most exclusive experiences, like a walk in the Scarecrow vineyard and a one-of-a-kind vacation on Pritchard Hill? Then don’t miss this episode.

Wine Featured On This Episode:

From single vineyard grape selections to ultra-specific techniques, winemakers are taking rosé more seriously than ever. But how do you discern which style is right for you? Raquel Royers—whose viral Instagram videos have earned her (@watchmesip) well over 100M views—has tasted HUNDREDS of rosé’s in her quest to find the best. Join us as Raquel discusses how she spots the best bottles based on the label, why she thinks rosé is the most underrated wine on the planet, and what her favorite bottles are. 

Wine Featured on This Episode:

On this very special crossover episode, Wine Access Unfiltered host Amanda McCrossin joins Dr. Matthew Horkey’s YouTube channel. He interviews Amanda, who opens up about the first HUGE mistake she made as a sommelier at Press, why one of the world’s most popular wines just can’t be aged, how a particular Chenin blanc makes her think of butterflies getting it on in the garden, and her favorite hack for traveling with wine.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

When it comes to celebrating, how do you know which wine to choose? Amanda gets thoughts from some of the best in the business—Niki Russ Federman of NYC’s iconic Russ & Daughters, Jasmine Hirsch, Nia Renee Hill, Anthony Giglio, and Master Sommelier June Rodil—at the Aspen Food and Wine Classic. From the value wines they love serving at weddings to rare bottles they’ll never forget, our guests share never-before-heard stories, money-saving tips on finding value-Burgundy, and why a dessert wine might be your best when it comes to aging for the long-haul.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

In this very special episode, Amanda is joined by some of the top vintners and winemakers in the world—from Spottswoode, Shafer, Frogs Leap, Gallica, and Duckhorn—at the Napa Valley Barrel Auction. You’re not going to want to miss their never-before-told stories on their ‘aha moments' of clarity where something just clicks for them—when wine starts to feel different, more purposeful, more meaningful, more clear—and how those meaningful moments shaped their wine journey. Plus, we dive into why paying attention to yours can be the ultimate key to unlocking your inner savvy wine buyer.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

If you’ve ordered a bottle of Barolo in the last 20 years, you can probably thank Jeff Porter for that. Despite now being a staple on wine lists and collections, Piedmont wines haven’t always received the same reverence as their French counterparts. Former wine and beverage director for Batali & Bastianich Hospitality—turned Wine Enthusiast writer and reviewer for northern Italy—left NYC to fully immerse himself in the heart of Piemonte. He joins us for an insider’s look at the region: From surprising misnomers about aging Barolo to the best value in the region, this episode takes you way beyond Nebbiolo and deep into the culture, history, and vibe of this iconic region.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

“If you were stuck with only Australian wine to drink, you would never be bored,” claimed guest Mark Davidson—who has been championing Australia for the better part of 2 decades. His book “Wines of Australia” focuses on this new world region—which has some of the oldest vines in the world, nearly every grape and style of wine on the planet, and some of the best values in the wine world. Plus, we give you the scoop on the major Burgundy hail storms and discuss why Robert Mondavi is teaming up with an unlikely collaborator. Your savvy wine buying guide to Australian wine starts now. 

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Champagne might be the king of bubbly, but that doesn’t mean it’s the surefire option for every situation. Sommelier Matthew Kaner—former SommTV host and current wine correspondent for Men’s Journal—joins us to discuss the unique characteristics of the world’s best sparkling wines and how they can play a starring role … starting with Italy. While Emilia-Romagna might be best known for cars and food—and Venice for Gondolas—both serve as home base for Italy’s most famous apertif-friendly wines. Plus, we talk the challenges for wine writers in today’s landscape and how America became to Prosecco’s greatest ally.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

It’s the 5th most planted grape in the world and the most planted white wine grape in California—but sometimes it feels like everyone hates Chardonnay. In this episode we’re diving into this very misunderstood grape variety, how its reputation as an over-oaked sugar cookie is falling by the wayside, and why it’s Amanda’s “desert island grape.” Wine-vlogger and sommelier Cokie of @cokiesworldofwine (over 300k on IG) joins to share some fool-proof tips on spotting bottles you’ll love just by looking at them.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

When it comes to wine regions, does one region rule them all? We’re putting the greats up against each other and breaking down the intricacies of selecting wine out in the wild. When should you choose Washington or Tuscany over Bordeaux? Does Champagne always make the best sparkling or are there situations where Cava or Prosecco make more sense? Plus, the wine world’s greatest con-man Rudy Kurniawan is back in business—and we’ve got the inside scoop on what he’s up to and why his bottles might become valuable collectibles.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Season 3 of the Unfiltered podcast is all about sharpening your wine-buying savvy, and our Episode 1 guest is one of the most finely honed minds in wine: Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible, America’s best-selling wine book. Karen is more than the only American to have won every major wine award given in the English language. She’s also an independent and (truly) unfiltered thinker who’s unafraid to challenge the status quo and the sacred. Guests don’t get any more major than this, so get ready for a full-throttle start to Season 3!

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Feeling a little lost perusing a restaurant’s wine list? Have trepidation about sending a wine back? Don’t know if you should tip on an expensive bottle? On the final episode of season 2, Amanda shares her insider tips—after a decade-long career as a restaurant sommelier—on what you should and should not be doing when it comes to wine at restaurants. And since comedy is often the best way to handle these “teachable moments” she's enlisted industry vet turned internet-star Drew Talbert—whose viral, hilarious, and all-too relatable “Bistro Huddy” videos resonate with hospitality pros and diners alike— to help.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Becoming a wine collector and building your dream cellar at home isn’t as far-fetched as you might think—and also happens to be one of the best ways to learn about wine. Joined by the Nancy Meyers-inspired lifestyle-maven Lex Nicoleta (aka “The Coastal Grandmother”), Amanda shares her fool-proof method for how to build a collection on just about any budget, why you don’t always need a wine fridge, and the ladies discuss which wines you might find your favorite Nancy Meyers movie characters drinking. 

Wine Featured on This Episode:

“Natural wine” has become the new darling of the wine world, but the lack of an actual certification or definition—like “organic,” “sustainable,” and “biodynamic” wine—has made it a topic of debate. So what exactly IS “natty” wine? And if you’re not drinking it, are you drinking “unnatural” wine? We’ve got TikTok’s favorite natural wine-obsessed New Jersey twins @supervinobros to help us define what natural wine is and how to spot it in the wild. From the surprising cuisine it pairs best with to the regions doing it the best, this is your crash course on natural wine, Orange wine, and everything in between.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

We’ve got your backstage pass into everything you need to know about food and wine festivals with one of the authorities on the subject. Anthony Giglio—sommelier and contributing wine editor at Food and Wine Magazine—has graced more food and wine festivals stages than any other wine professional in the business. From which festival you’re most likely to taste your bucket list wine to where you’re likely to sip wine next to a celeb, the hilariously funny fan favorite at Aspen Food and Wine is giving us the inside scoop and sharing the embarrassing on-stage moment that haunts him to this day.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Her viral “What Your Champagne Says About You” videos made us cringe AND cackle at our bubbles choices—so we figured we’d invite her onto the program to talk about entertaining with wine this holiday season. Erin Darling (@dahhhhling)—comedian, writer, actress and host of the hit “Hot Pizza Ass” podcast—talks why you may want to reconsider serving your red wine with brie, Jay-Z’s birthday blowout in Bordeaux, the top 3 Champagnes you should be drinking right now, and the surprising choice for bubbles that will make you look like a wine-pairing goddess.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Executive Food & Wine Editor and decorated wine writer Ray Isle, whose book The World in a Wineglass: The Insider's Guide to Artisanal, Sustainable, Extraordinary Wines to Drink Now just came out to rave reviews. He and host Amanda McCrossin discuss how important “mindful farming” terms like “biodynamic” and “sustainable” really are, whether these winegrowing decisions manifest in the glass—and give you the scoop on whether you can blame sulfites for that red-wine headache.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

On this Thanksgiving episode, we’re giving back with the two things you’ll need most this holiday season - wine and home renovation tips and tricks. HGTV and DIY TV Star Jeff Devlin asks the wine questions we’re all too afraid to ask—and Amanda has all the answers. What should you do after you find a bottle you love at a restaurant? Is there such a thing as good boxed wine? How can you uplevel your wine drinking at home? So pop a bottle, enjoy the episode (where Amanda shares her favorite fast food pairing), and hold off on your home renovations until tomorrow.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Move over Pumpkin Spice Latte… Amanda’s favorite fall beverage is Beaujolais—and she celebrated it by hosting our second ever live-episode on Beaujolais Nouveau Day! In it, she dove deep into the differences between Cru Beajolais and Beaujolais Nouveau and answered some of the questions she’s been getting on Instagram—including her picks for excellent Napa values for $75 or less.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

From cycling accident to US Editor of Decanter Magazine, Clive Pursehouse joins us for a behind the scenes look at life as a wine critic. How does he go about researching a vintage? And how does that information translate into terminology and drinking windows? Why is it that a cold vintage in Bordeaux can have the total opposite effect as a cold vintage in Napa? And why can “bad vintages” actually produce incredible wines? Plus, with all that wine Clive tastes, he shares how he stays healthy as a wine critic.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

With 19 distinct AVA’s, numerous quaint downtowns, incredible restaurants, a cheese trail, and a total acreage more than twice the size of Napa Valley, Sonoma has a lot to offer. But that also makes it a complicated region to navigate. Wine For Normal People Host Elizabeth Schneider joins Amanda to discuss their can’t miss spots. From a hidden highway bar under eucalyptus trees to their favorite wineries that are still under the radar, this is the roadmap to Sonoma stops you won’t want to miss.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

“If you love wine, you need to be drinking Spanish wine,” Advanced Sommelier Laura Koffer proclaimed. From the history of Spain’s most planted variety—Tempranillo—and it’s roots in Bordeaux to which region you should prioritize if you’re visiting for the first time, Wine Access experts Laura Koffer and Eduardo Dingler join the program to take you on a tour of one of the top producing wine-regions in the world—and an absolute value haven for wine lovers.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

A sip of Sauvignon Blanc at Quintessa. That was the moment that Danica Patrick—who has been named to TIME’s “100 Most Influential People'' list, appeared in a record-setting 14 Super Bowl commercials, and is arguably the most successful female professional race car driver of all time—began dreaming about owning a Napa Valley winery. A few years later, a call from Aaron Pott made that a reality. Join us as Danica discusses purchasing her Howell Mountain property, planting and cultivating vineyards, where she likes to go in Napa Valley, and a wine-only Burning Man experience!

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Florence-born wine journalist and Italian wine expert Filippo Bartolotta joins us to break down Tuscany with tips on how to enjoy the very best this historic wine-producing region has to offer. From understanding the classic style of Chianti Classico to where you can discover the under-the-radar wines the locals prefer to keep to themselves, this is a true wine-lovers guide to Tuscany.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

In our very first LIVE episode, host Amanda McCrossin unpacks what she’s most excited about in the wine world right now. From the grape that might be overtaking Pinot Noir in Oregon to the affordable (for now) Italian wine that’s about to have a major comeback, Amanda is divulging all the best tips she’s gathered from her wine travels over the past two years.

Wine Featured in This Episode:

Would you like to regularly travel to Europe and taste the best wines in the world night after night for your job? Well then it might be time to consider becoming a sommelier. But before you quit your job and make a run for it, we’re giving you the inside scoop on how to make it happen—and what life is REALLY like working the floor at one of the country’s top restaurants. Amanda is joined by Saison Beverage Director Molly Greene to answer one of their most asked questions: “How do you become a sommelier?”

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Over the last decade rosé has taken the world by storm, expanding way beyond its Provence roots and into nearly every major wine producing region in the world. From food pairings and styles, to how White Zinfandel fits into the picture, Amanda breaks down everything you need to know about rosé … and is joined by TikTok star Christine Buzan, who teaches us how to look good doing it in this perfectly pink and fun-filled episode.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Sommeliers might be pouring restaurant-goers the most iconic and expensive wines in the world, but when they’re home it’s a slightly different story. Join us as we reveal the smart buys that sommeliers love to keep for themselves. We’re talking Piedmont, Loire Valley, Burgundy, and even Bordeaux—because, even in the highest priced regions, there are always deals to be scored. 

Château Margaux. Lafite-Rothschild. Petrus. Château d’Yquem. Despite the exclusive reputation—wealth, power, status—that Bordeaux has earned, the region is also a hotbed for affordability and accessibility. We’ve invited Quintessa winemaker Aaron Pott who formerly served as winemaker at Bordeaux’s Château Troplong Mondot and Château la tour Figeac, to help you navigate Bordeaux as a wine lover: you’ll learn the best time to book you trip, why you shouldn’t take no for an answer, and which Bordeaux region is his favorite to visit.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Home to some of the finest Cabernet Francs, Chenin Blancs, and Sauvignon Blancs in the world, the Loire Valley is as prolific a region as they come. Plus, there may be no better local wine and cheese pairing than their local goat cheeses and bright, textured white wines. Yet, the Loire Valley continues to live in the shadows of neighboring Bordeaux and Burgundy. This week, we’re joined by John and Reed Skupny of Lang & Reed Napa Valley to chat about some of the best kept secrets in the world and the re-discovery of Cabernet Franc.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Mendoza is the world’s 5th largest wine producer, home of multiple 100 point wines, and the adoptive birthplace of Malbec. Yet, it’s a region that still manages to fly under the radar, especially when it comes to wine tourism. Amanda is joined by XChateau podcast host Robert Vernick, whose wine-savvy Instagram @wineterroir focuses on some of the most sought-after, interesting, and rare wines of the world. After spending a week in the region, Robert and Amanda will tell you why Mendoza is poised to become one of the most sought after wine destinations on the planet.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

On this absolutely can’t-miss episode, Amanda and Eduardo are joined by Michelin-starred Chef Minh Phan from Phenakite—who the Los Angeles Times named their Restaurant of the Year in 2021—to talk about Asian food and wine pairings. A wine’s “texture is really important in Asian food,” Chef Minh tells us. “When I compose a dish, I make sure that each bite is different and I feel like wine, with each sip, is the same way.” When you listen to this episode, it’ll be easy to understand why, according to a Variety article in October 2021, Phenakite had more than 20,000 people waiting to get reservations.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

The MICHELIN Chef mini-series continues with Chef Emma Bengtsson of 2 Michelin-starred Aquavit in New York. She began at Aquavit as a Pastry Chef before becoming Executive Chef and the first female Swedish Chef to be awarded two Michelin stars—and only the second female Chef in the United States to do so. Emma talks about how a lot of the “new” culinary techniques that have surfaced within the last decade are the core fundamental to Nordic cuisine as a result of the long winter. And we focus on pairing wine with all of those great spring flavors.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

The MICHELIN Chef mini-series continues with Chef (and Owner) Val Cantu of Californios, the first and only Mexican restaurant in North America to earn two Michelin stars. From squab al pastor tacos to a grilled banana with Caviar, he has taken Mexican cuisine to a whole new level and we got the scoop on how to capture those flavors at home. Plus, Master Sommelier Sur Lucero joins us to help explain why we should all be breaking out Txakoli and Rioja with our Mexican-inspired dishes.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

We’re kicking off a four-episode mini-series featuring chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants with Executive Chef Troy Jorge from Chicago’s one Michelin-starred Temporis. The MICHELIN Guide describes Troy’s food as “the epitome of subtlety, serenity, and sophistication” and when the chef coat comes off, he heads straight to his grill at home. Troy declares the cut that reigns supreme and shares his tips on how to have an epic meat night at home. Plus, Advanced Sommelier Laura Koffer talks about which wines to pair with steak—and her choices might surprise you!

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Pinot Noir is nicknamed the heartbreak grape—because there’s so much that can go wrong. Winemaker Luisa Ponzi joins us to talk about all the factors that go into making Pinot Noir, from the terroir to the winemaking. We hope this episode gives you a whole new appreciation for how much goes into making Pinot Noir and why Luisa says it can be either the most amazing glass of wine you ever had or the worst wine you have ever had.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Master Sommelier Sur Lucero was the fourteenth Krug Cup winner, passing all three levels of the Master Sommelier Exam on his first attempt while earning the highest score. He honed his palate working at The French Laundry, The Little Nell, Cyrus, Meadowood Resort, and Daniel Boulud Las Vegas. Sur joins the Podcast to share his tips on how to assess wine, which is a great way to understand what you like and how to then communicate that. 

Wine Featured on This Episode:

So many people reached out to request we have ex-NFL star Drew Bledsoe on the podcast and we totally understand why. Now an accomplished vintner, Drew first got into wine doing blind tastings with his Patriots teammates. He’d slide wines from his home state of Washington into the lineup and they would always beat the best from Bordeaux and Napa. That’s when the light bulb went off. “There was something different happening back in my hometown,” he told us—so he went all in. From farming practices and vineyards to Super Bowl picks and tips for drinking wine on a plane, this episode is not to be missed.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

“Was there a fear that going plant-based would affect your 3-Michelin star status?” we ask Sommelier Gabriel Di Bella of Eleven Madison Park, which has been recognized as the world’s best restaurant. “Hundred percent for sure,” he tells us on this episode of Wine Access Unfiltered. Join us as Gabriel recounts Chef Daniel Humm’s big announcement, how he approaches wine pairings with “no boundaries” just like they do food, how texture plays a bigger role in pairing vegetables with wine than one might think, the vegetable that’s most challenging to pair, and much more.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

When David Stern announced “With the 10th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, the Portland Trail Blazers select CJ McCollum from Lehigh University,” CJ didn’t yet know there was wine in Oregon. Join us as we dive into the rise of Oregon wine and get the scoop on CJ’s wine journey, from Carmelo Anthony introducing him to White Burgundy to launching his own wine label and purchasing his own vineyard. Plus, CJ shares his favorite Oregon spots and the hidden gems he and his wife have come to love.

Wine Featured on This Episode:

Many consider Chardonnay “the winemaker’s grape” but how much does winemaking really affect the outcome? Our friend Dan Petroski of Massican joins us to discuss the many paths to Chardonnay. How does terroir, harvest and picking date impact the outcome? What is malolactic fermentation? Should all Chardonnay be oaked? What can you look for on a label to determine how the Chardonnay will taste? And Vanessa reveals a surprising truth about Chablis.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

“What type of glassware should I use for different wines?” “What’s the best way to store my wine if I don’t have a wine fridge or a cellar?” “Are wine gadgets actually worth the money?” “When should I decant a wine and for how long?” “Once I open a bottle, what’s the best way to keep it fresh?” We’re tackling all your questions about how to store, service, and save your wine on this episode with actress, writer, producer and director Nia Renee Hill, who shares her epiphany wine moment with us. We had a blast recording this episode—so buckle up!

Wines Featured on This Episode:

From the fortified Port wines of the Douro Valley to the bright, crispy whites of Vinho Verde, Portugal is one of the most diverse and interesting wine regions of the world—yet still remains under-the-radar. Having just returned from a month-long trek through the region, Amanda is downloading everything she gathered, including some of the surprising techniques used to make Port, unusual dishes like Percebes, and why this stunning region might be her favorite in the world.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Just as the fog, or nebbia, creeps down the hillsides of the Langhe each October, Nebbiolo grapes finish ripening and truffles begin their own ripening cycle in the woods nearby. In this episode we’ll explore the process of finding, harvesting, and preparing truffles, and talk about how to pair this region’s iconic wines with truffle cuisine. Plus, we’ll break down some other famous pairings “that grow together” like Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc and fresh goat cheese. 

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Bryan Callen is a wine lover, stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and co-host of the hit podcasts The Fighter and The Kid and Conspiracy Social Club. He started his career on MADtv and has appeared in many hit TV shows and movies including Frasier, Sex and the City, The Goldbergs, and The Hangover Series. Bryan recently released an episode of his YouTube series, Best Of, on steak and wine pairings so we invited him to dive even deeper on Wine Access Unfiltered. Join us as we discuss Bordeaux vs Napa Cab, our favorite meals, fried chicken and Champagne, and … wood doves?

Wines Featured on This Episode:

Wines made under NDA have developed a bit of a cult following at Wine Access and, in this episode of Wine Access Unfiltered, we’ll be pulling back the curtain. No, we can’t tell you which vineyards we’re sourcing from—but we will discuss how NDA wines are different from second labels, the economics of wineries, and how things like blending and barrels play a role in these wines becoming available…and more. Plus, we’ll dive into the sale of Joseph Phelps to Moët Hennessy and adding San Francisco Bay Area water to their wine.

Wines Featured on This Episode:

We’ve been known to say that Champagne doesn’t require an occasion—that it IS the occasion—but when we have an occasion to celebrate, we’re drinking Champagne! So drink along as we kick off season 2 by joining the Unfiltered Wine Club, a completely new wine-education experience. We’re kicking things off by going deep into where Champagne is grown, how Champagne is made, how to read a Champagne label, why we drink it out of white wine glasses, and more!

Wines Featured On This Episode:

We're closing out season 1 with supermodel, entrepreneur, Broadway star, and vintner Christie Brinkley. Her million-dollar smile that made Clark Griswold go weak in the knees decades ago is as charming and electric as ever. Christie goes back in time to regale us with tales from drinking wine as an artist in France, how she kept the Champagne cold in her Broadway dressing room, and why she decided to take on a Prosecco business in Italy.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Celebrated food journalist, #1 New York Times bestselling author, and former columnist for the New York Times, Mark Bittman has been on the forefront of the food movement for 50 years, chronicling the evolution of how we eat. On today’s episode we bring wine into the fold to discover where the parallels exist and where they don’t.  And while the six-time James Beard Award winner claims to not have a great palate when it comes to wine, he’s not fooling anyone.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Sasha Grey burst into the spotlight with her role as Vincent Chase’s girlfriend on HBO megahit Entourage, and she hasn’t stepped out of the limelight since: An actress, model, writer, musician, and early adopter of Twitch, Sasha’s impressive wine knowledge was no shock to us—even though she calls herself a beginner. Join Sasha, Amanda, and Vanessa to learn about an undersung Burgundian variety, vetting wine by the back label, and more.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Ken Levine has written, produced and directed some of television's most iconic shows, including M*A*S*H, Cheers, Frasier, The Simpsons, and Everybody Loves Raymond. When not writing for Hollywood, he's been the play-by-play announcer for Major League Baseball's Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Today, he sits down with Amanda and Vanessa to talk about his one-of-a-kind journey.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

This week, comedian Anna Roisman dishes the dirt on what it’s like to serve Champagne to celebrities, including members of Green Day after their Grammy win. Plus, we reminisce over waiting tables with bottles from our exclusive Michelin wine subscription, and how restaurants made Anna fall in love with Riesling.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Atlanta Braves pitching phenom Ian Anderson and his twin brother Ben throw Amanda and Vanessa a curve this week, proving they’re anything but wine rookies despite being just 22 years old. “I wish more people would take advantage of wine as a way to get close to people,” Ian told us between stories of growing up with great bottles on the table, and how wine continues to tie this MLB family together.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

This week, we sit down with legendary perfectionist and Grammy, Emmy, Oscar, Tony winner AND vintner John Legend. Needless to say, we had a lot to talk about, from the musicality and balance inherent in wine to innovative pairings for Chrissy Teigen's favorite foods, and how rose just "goes with life." Plus, the inside intel on John's partnership with legendary Burgundy vintner Jean Charles Boisset and the duo's incredible LVE wines.

Wines Featured On This Episode

This week, we sit down with MLB star Will Clark for stories involving “quite a bit of profanity,” and quite a few laughs. From spraying Champagne to giving public apologies, “Will the Thrill” talks about everything from America’s pastime and our favorite pastime, with grand slam wines like Orin Swift’s powerhouse 8 Years in the Desert.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

This week on Wine Access Unfiltered we go beyond the leg lamp and Red Ryder BB gun of A Christmas Story with actor-producer Peter Billingsley. From Port and cigars to family traditions and histamines in wine, this episode is anything but “Fragile.” Plus, we open one of the rarest port-style wines in existence from cult icon Williams Selyem.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

While he might be the world’s first personal fitness trainer, “Body by Jake” founder Jake Steinfeld didn’t always have his sights on getting Harrison Ford ready for Indiana Jones or convincing Bette Midler to do a push-up. From accidentally getting drunk and falling asleep next to Andrew Lloyd Webber to developing an affinity for Cristal and caviar with Steven Spielberg, Jake Steinfeld spills his unbelievable stories and hilarious moments — and they always seem to happen around wine.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

For the first time ever, Vanessa and Amanda are joined by another Wine Expert—wine critic and Vinous founder Antonio Galloni. Not only does he share his secrets to finding great wine on a budget, but we dive into Antonio’s linguistic history, background in music, and days as an MIT grad student. Buckle up!

Wines Featured On This Episode:

An accomplished podcaster himself, comedian Bert Kreischer took a break from doing standup (shirtless, of course) and indulging in wine (on his treadmill, naturally) to drink some wine with us! On this week’s Wine Access Unfiltered, we pour a couple of glasses with Bert, as he dips into his endless arsenal of side-splitting stories—and tells us how a bottle of wine sparked one of his most life-changing conversations.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Comedian Steve Byrne joins us to discus how to work a room... and dig yourself out. Join us as we give him tips on how to impress his good friend and wine lover Vince Vaughn (who makes a surprise visit), despite not knowing much about wine himself. Just like that time he hosted the CMA red carpet show despite knowing nothing about country music... except Garth Brooks.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Pop-rock maestro Butch Walker has written and produced hits by Panic! at the Disco, Avril Lavigne, Pink, and many more—and in the newest episode of Wine Access Unfiltered, we pop a few bottles with him. Butch fills us in the Bordeaux that got him started, his Super-Tuscan splurges, and how the corkscrew only comes out AFTER the studio session is done for the day.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Episode 16 on Wine Access Unfiltered is a total knockout. We’re joined by firefighter, family man, and 2X reigning UFC Heavyweight Champion Stipe Miocic, who shares his tips and tricks for doing it all... and keeping wine on the menu.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Amar’e Stoudemire lives large, and this week he’s sharing everything from his Cabernet savvy to fashion advice with Vanessa and Amanda. The NBA Superstar and modern day philosopher joins us from Brooklyn to dish on all things basketball, becoming a vintner on two continents, and the truth about his infamous pastime: bathing in wine. Pop a bottle and join us for a discussion to remember.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

It’s OK to be nervous, but don’t be scared.” That’s Dusty Baker’s advice on baseball and ours on wine—two of America’s favorite pastimes. This World Series champ joins Master of Wine Vanessa Conlin and Amanda McCrossin to dish on everything from the Houston Astros to Mondavi family secrets, his love of Zinfandel, and launching a wine with Hank Aaron not far from our Napa backyard.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

This week we’re uncorking the best of the best with Haute Living CEO Kamal Hotchandani. This media mogul not only swears by wine as a “performance enhancer” and is the ultimate entertainer. On this episode, Kamal teaches us the secret to selecting the perfect wine and dishes on star athletes like his wine mentor Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

You may have seen them in the New York Times or at a sold-out show, but we can guarantee you’ve never heard #IMomSoHard hosts Kristen Hensley and Jen Smedley like this. From their tale of the $150 bottle of Barefoot to the value of screw cap wines while juggling toddlers, this laugh-out-loud episode is filled with down to earth alternatives to the same-old wines. Grab a glass, you won’t want to miss this.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

NFL star Maurice Jones joins Amanda and Vanessa to discuss the wine culture around "Rookie Dinners" and his liquid epiphany over a round of one-of-a-kind White Burgundy.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

There's more to the wine business than tasting notes and vineyard tours, as NPR Planet Money founder (and wine aficionado) explains on the latest edition of Wine Access Unfiltered. Adam reveals why wine is a "model market" and unveils not just his passion for the good stuff, but the intricacies of the wine biz--including secrets every savvy wine lover should know.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Three-time NBA Champion and Miami Heat Captain Udonis Haslem might be the oldest player in the league, but he's the NBA's newest wine aficionado. This week he joins Amanda and Vanessa with the inside scoop on NBA-Wine Culture, his vinous mentors Jimmy Butler and Dwyane Wade, and how he's scoring major points in the battle against COVID-19.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Chef Kayla Greer caters to the stars: You can count Drake, Diddy and Demi Lovato among her clientele. We're taking this gourmand out of the kitchen--with enthusiasm and charm to spare, Kayla reveals her take on perfect perfect pairings, celebrity tastes and more!

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Comedian Tom Papa joins today to talk about his new podcast, love of Italian wines, his passion for baking bread and the experience of doing comedy in a pandemic.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

ESPN's Baxter Holmes guides us through the NBA's new and intriguing wine fascination. From LeBron to Melo to D. Wade and Chris Paul, we've got the inside scoop on how the the biggest stars are experiencing the world's most diverse beverage.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport talks with Amanda and Vanessa about his rise to NFL insider status and pairing his love of the juice with juicy stories behind the scenes.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

MLB All Star Nomar Garciaparra famously played shortstop for the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs. Did you know he is also a wine geek? Amanda and Vanessa explore his love of the juice and team up for major league wines and major league stories.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Budding country music star Carly Pearce has won a CMT Music Award, toured with Blake Shelton, and has really developed her palate. On this episode, we discuss her hit single "Hide The Wine" and her love for Napa Valley wine.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Comedian Brad Williams had one of the highest rated comedy specials on the network in 2015. On this episode of Wine Access Unfiltered, we learn about Brad's love for a little bit of the bubbly, and one thing that a sommelier and a comedian have in common.

Wines Featured On This Episode:

Long time Running Back of the New York Giants, Tiki Barber, opens up about his passion for wine, love of Napa Valley, and how hard it is to get the job done in stiletto heels. Yes. Seriously.

Wines Featured On This Episode: