Bottled in China: A Wine & Food Podcast

What happens when China's wine market shrinks by 15% annually since 2019, yet some companies post their best year ever? In this landmark 200th episode of Bottled in China, we assembles an expert roundtable to decode 2025's contradictions and what they mean for 2026.

Guests:

From Beijing's anti-corruption crackdown that decimated government banqueting to the surprising surge in aromatic white wines, our panel reveals how "...

What if everything you've been told about alcohol and health is wrong—or at least incomplete?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Laura Catena, a Harvard and Stanford-educated physician and fourth-generation vintner behind Argentina's legendary Catena Zapata. As the driving force behind the 'In Defense of Wine' campaign, Dr. Catena is not here to tell you that wine is a miracle cure—she's here to cut through the noise and present what peer-reviewed science actually says about moderate alcohol consumption.

Dr. Catena believes the current conversation around alcohol and health has veered away from...

Think you know how to pair wine with Asian cuisine? Think again.

In this episode, we explore the intriguing insights of Master of Wine Richard Hemming, who challenges traditional pairing norms with his groundbreaking book, Wine & The Food of Asia. After two years of rigorous research, including the testing of 400 wines and 80 recipes from 13 countries, Richard invites us to rethink our approach and discard the traditional rules.

Today, we explore the misconceptions about Riesling being the go-to choice for spicy foods and uncover effective strategies for navigating complex pairings. We'll discuss how to pair wine...

If you’re in the industry, you’re well aware that fine wine isn’t just about drinking—it’s a global asset class worth billions. But for a long time, trading this luxury was shrouded in mystery, plagued by inefficiencies. Enter Liv-ex, the game-changing platform that transformed fine wine into a modern, data-driven market. How did this revolution come to be, and what does the future hold for wine trading?

In this episode, we’re joined by James Miles, the CEO and co-founder of Liv-ex. As the Chairman of Liv-ex and a director at the Wine and Spirit T...

Hong Kong was once the undisputed capital of fine wine auctions—a magnet for rare bottles, record prices, and global collectors. Now, the market is shifting. Tastes are changing, investment habits are evolving, and the city’s role in the world of wine is being redefined. What does that mean for collectors, investors, and anyone who cares about what’s in the glass?

Our guest is Charles Curtis, Master of Wine Founder of WineAlpha, where he provides advice on varied topics of interest to wine collectors and the trade. 

As the former Head of Wine for Chr...

While baijiu is celebrated as China's national spirit and wine is steadily gaining popularity, yellow wine—known locally as Huangjiu—constitutes less than 2% of the country's total alcoholic beverage market. Nevertheless, it holds a distinctive place in Chinese drinking culture.

With a history spanning over 2,500 years, Huangjiu is among the world's oldest alcoholic drinks, yet it remains relatively obscure outside of China. Today, Simon Zhou, founder of Ruby Red Fine Wine, is here to share the story of Huangjiu. Recognized as one of Forbes China’s most admired figures in the food and beverage sector, Simon started with a...

In this episode of Bottled in China, we explore Africa's remarkable demographic and economic growth with Dr. Christian Lindfeld, Managing Director of Africa Ventures Advisory. As the continent's population has surged to 1.5 billion in just 30 years, Dr. Lindfeld highlights how Africa's expanding middle class is transforming luxury consumption, especially in the wine industry.

During our discussion, he explains why Africa's wine import market is increasingly appealing to global producers. With rising disposable incomes in urban areas and a burgeoning middle class, consumption trends are evolving. The continent's youthful population and thriving economic hubs are particularly open to...

As consumer preferences shift towards healthier lifestyles, the non-alcoholic wine sector is poised for unprecedented growth. With the no- and low-alcohol drinks market expected to expand by over $4 billion by 2028, join us as we explore how innovative winemaking techniques and strategic insights are reshaping this industry with winemaker Duncan Shouler.

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of non-alcoholic wines with Duncan Shouler, a renowned Director and Winemaking Consultant at Enobev Consulting. With a background in Marine Biology, Duncan's wine journey began in 2004, leading him to work with prestigious producers like Château Angelus a...

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricacies of the Chinese market with our guest, Robert Foye. As a seasoned leader in the beverage industry, Robert has an impressive background that includes roles at Coca-Cola, TWE, and Accolade. He has been a key player in the remarkable rise of brands like Penfolds in Asia.

In Part 2 of our conversation, Robert shares his insights on navigating the complexities of the Chinese wine market and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way. We'll explore the key factors that contributed to Penfolds' success in China, effective strategies for...

"Don't be afraid to take risks, make decisions and solve problems,’ says Robert Foye, former CEO of Accolade Wines and previously Global Chief Operating Officer at Treasury Wine Estates. With over 22 years at The Coca-Cola Company and extensive experience across Asian, US, and European markets, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to our conversation.  

From navigating market shifts to redefining company culture, his journey is filled with pivotal moments that shaped his leadership approach. We'll explore Robert's career milestones, key skills for thriving in wine, and advice for young professionals looking to stand out.

 ...

Over the past few decades, the wine industry in China has experienced remarkable growth and transformation. From being a relatively new player in the global market, China has emerged as a significant and influential force in the industry. Today we’ll be exploring this dynamic wine region, which remains relatively unknown to most wine lovers.

In this episode, we'll be diving into the world of Chinese wine—exploring key regions, the curated selection on Cathay Pacific’s wine list, and how you can create a first-class experience at home. Joining us is Ronald Khoo, Wine & Spirit Assistant Manage...

What if your daily glass of wine, previously celebrated for its health benefits, is now viewed through a critical lens that labels it a health risk and labelling it as cancerous? Today, we unpack the complexities of this narrative with Felicity Carter, exploring the science, media influence, and industry responses that shape our understanding of wine's place in a healthy lifestyle.

Today, we are excited to welcome Felicity Carter, a distinguished journalist and editor based in Europe. As the Editorial Director of ARENI Global and co-founder of Business of Drinks, Felicity's expertise is unmatched. She formerly served...

What if the secret to your favorite cup of tea lies beneath the surface, in the soil? 

Join us as we dive deep into the world of tea science with Dylan Rothenburg, a dedicated researcher and the founder of Wu Mountain Tea based in Guangzhou China, whose journey is helping us to understand how to appreciate tea and the science behind it. 

After moving to Beijing at the age of 16, Dylan immersed himself in Chinese culture and language, eventually discovering his passion for tea under the mentorship of Professor Zhang. Now pursuing doctoral research focused on...

 At just 24, Toru Takamatsu made history by becoming the youngest person to achieve the coveted Master Sommelier title — a distinction few can claim at any age. But his journey to this rarefied status was anything but easy. We explore what first ignited his passion for wine, the hurdles he faced along the way, and how his drive and determination propelled him to the top. Now, as he embarks on a new chapter at Domaine Takahiko, Toru is looking beyond the world of sommeliers and into the realm of winemaking. We discuss his work with Takahiko Soga, the philosophy behind the...

 What if the secret to a perfect cup of tea lies not just in the brewing, but in the centuries-old traditions that shape it? In this episode, we welcome Shunan Teng, the visionary founder of Tea Drunk in New York City. 

In this episode, we delve into the rich tapestry of Chinese tea with Shunan Teng, founder and CEO of Tea Drunk, a renowned tea house in New York City. Shunan has become a pivotal figure in the tea community, dedicated to preserving the ancient traditions of Chinese tea while educating a new generation of enthusiasts. Each ye...

 In today’s episode, the second of our two-part series, we confront a pressing question: amid the current slowdown in the Chinese market, does Bordeaux still present an attractive opportunity for producers?

Once viewed as a burgeoning frontier for wine, China now reveals a complex and shifting landscape. We are joined by Chloe Wu, Founder of Advinture Trading, to dissect this evolving market. Together, we will examine how Bordeaux can strategically engage younger consumers and women, endeavoring to reshape its image in the face of changing preferences and distribution channels.

Chloe’s expertise is underscored by he...

In this two part episode, we discuss Bordeaux’s remarkable growth in China, highlighting the key figures and success stories that underscore its impact in this dynamic market. Chloe explains the innovative marketing and branding strategies employed by Bordeaux producers, emphasizing their shift from a luxury image to one of accessibility. We also explore the critical role played by the Bordeaux Wine Council in supporting this transition.

As we delve deeper, Chloe addresses the challenges currently faced by Bordeaux merchants. She outlines the competitive landscape, particularly the pressure from other wine-producing regions, as well as the economic ch...

You might be surprised to learn that in the world of caviar, China has emerged as a dominant force, producing half of the global supply. 

In today’s episode, Reisa Jiang, the co- founder of Astrea Caviar takes us on a journey from the tranquil ponds of Yunnan, China to the delicate art of caviar processing. 

Together, we will uncover the story behind China's rise as a global caviar powerhouse and uncover the nuances of Chinese caviar, its diverse sturgeon varieties, and the techniques and location for production.  

Learn more about Asrea Caviar here...

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Jackson, Master of Wine and author of the acclaimed book "Beyond Flavour: The Indispensable Handbook to Blind Wine Tasting." Nick shares his personal journey to becoming a Master of Wine and the pivotal moment when he realized the importance of focusing on a wine's structure rather than just its flavors.

Nick's wine career began at the University of Cambridge, where he was a member of the successful Cambridge University blind wine tasting team. After earning a PhD in Theology, he worked as an auction specialist at Sotheby's in London...

In this episode of the Bottled in China Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Andrew Jefford, an acclaimed journalist, poet, and writer whose expertise spans the diverse realms of wine, whisky, travel, and perfume.

Jefford is a Contributing Editor and columnist for both Decanter and The World of Fine Wine, as well as the Academic Advisor to the Wine Scholar Guild and Co-Chair of Decanter World Wine Awards. He has also broadcast extensively on wine, tea, and other subjects for BBC Radio. With twelve books and guides to his name, including "The New France," "Whisky Island," and...

 In this episode, we delve into the world of wine auctions and the flourishing fine wine scene in Asia. 

Today we are joined by Adam Bilbey, Christie's Global Head of Wine and Spirits. Drawing from his wealth of experience in Asia, we explore the notable shifts in fine wine collecting across the regions and the emerging trends that shape this dynamic market.

From its origins in London in 1766, Christie's Auctions has made a lasting impact on the global wine market. Today, we uncover the secrets behind this prestigious institution's successful foray into the Asian market an...

In 1996, Don St Pierre Jr joined forces with his father, Don St Pierre Sr, to establish ASC Fine Wines. Over the years, their company has grown to become one of the largest importers of high-quality wine in China.

Today, we delve into the formidable obstacles encountered while introducing fine wines to the Chinese market and the fascinating stories of navigating the intricacies of conducting business in China during the mid-nineties.

We also dive into cherished memories of Don St Pierre Sr's remarkable character and enduring impact in the industry.  

Finally, we reflect on t...

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Yiannis Karakasis, a renowned Master of Wine based in Athens, Greece.

With his expertise and passion for Greek wines, Yiannis has been instrumental in introducing the world to the hidden treasures of this ancient winemaking region.

In our conversation, we delve into his journey and what makes Greek wines so unique and worth exploring. We also discuss his latest ebook, "Greek Wine Explained," and the valuable insights it offers to readers.

Yiannis takes us behind the scenes of the 50 Great Greek Wines Awards an...

In our latest podcast episode, we embark on a journey to unravel the ever-evolving world of China's wine market. With an eye toward 2024, we explore the challenging landscape awaiting the wine industry.

Joining us is Natalie Wang, Chief Editor of Vino Joy News ─ the ultimate source for insights into China's wine industry. Natalie's expertise will guide us through the intricate layers of this dynamic market that went from boom to slide. 

Today we sit down to examine China's current economic landscape and forecast the evolving transformations that lie ahead for the wine industry in the nex...

Introducing Mark Wong: Mark Wong is a visionary entrepreneur who took the beverage industry by storm. Less than 6 months after creating Impossibrew, he found himself on the hit TV show "Dragons' Den," where he faced the ultimate test of his business acumen. In this episode, Mark takes us through that experience and shares the valuable lessons he learned along the way.

During our conversation, Mark reveals the fascinating science behind Impossibrew's beers, which offer a one or two-pint feeling without the presence of alcohol. We explore the nootropic herbs used in their products for relaxation and cognitive...

Professor Charles Spence is a world-renowned experimental psychologist specializing in neuroscience-inspired multisensory design. Spence has published over 1,000 academic articles and authored various best-sellers, including “The Perfect Meal” and “Gastrophysics: The New Science of Eating.” Sensehacking, his newest book, was published in 2021.

In addition to being an award-winning author, Spence established and runs the Crossmodal Research Laboratory (CRL) at the Oxford University Department of Experimental Psychology.

Professor Spence collaborates with baristas, mixologists, chocolatiers, chefs, and perfumiers to design enhanced multisensory food and drink experiences.

Professor Spence has worked extensively in multisensory experiential wine and coffee...

On today’s episode we embark on a journey that sheds light on Asia’s most misunderstood berry and discuss how it’s making a hot comeback. 

We sit down with Yao Zhao, Founder of 50 Hertz Tingly Foods to discuss all things Sichuan peppers.

In this interview, we delve into the scientific intricacies behind Sichuan pepper’s iconic mala (麻辣) or numbing flavour. 

Together, we’ll uncover the fascinating history of Sichuan peppers, tracing their origins in ancient medicinal practices and their epic odyssey along the legendary Silk Road. 

But that's not all—our explorati...

In today’s podcast we’ll be uncorking the secrets of unconventional pairings with Vanessa Price,  resident sommelier for The TODAY Show, and the brilliant mind behind the best-selling book, "Big Macs and Burgundy: Wine Pairings for the Real World." 

Vanessa has spent nearly two decades honing her craft and immersing herself in the wine industry. Her expertise has been recognized by prestigious publications like New York Magazine and Vogue, where she has written and been featured.

But Vanessa's passion extends beyond the written word and into the realm of fine dining. As the Wine Direct...

Can we taste terroir?

In today’s podcast, we unravel this very question with geologist Brenna Quigley to explore how soil influences a wine’s style.

Based in Napa, CA, Brenna conducts vineyard investigations and educates other about the influence of soil on wine style.

With a Master’s degree in Geology, she has had the opportunity to study the terroirs of France while working with Te Source Imports and Becky Wasserman & Co.

Her current projects take her to various locations around the world, from Spain, Austria, Germany, to Italy. 

Follo...

Today we discuss the advancements of nanotechnology in the wine industry with Dr Sachinadri Rana. 

Nanotechnology is a branch of technology that focuses on producing, designing, and using objects or systems by manipulating atoms and molecules at nanoscale.

In today’s podcast episode, we are thrilled to provide more insight into the wine production process with Dr Sachinadri Rana, Ph.D., an expert Wine Researcher at the Bragato Research Institute. With ten years of experience in the wine industry and a doctorate in biotechnology, Dr Sachi’s acute understanding of nanotechnology in grape growing and winem...

The story of wine is a colorful one. 

Today, more funds and nonprofits are cropping up to promote the inclusivity of marginalized groups in the wine culture at large. One of those efforts, The Roots Fund, is looking to secure a pathway for the future of wine for those who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color. 

Today, we talk with the founder of The Roots Fund, Ikimi Dubose about the importance of mentorship and leadership. 

When we sat down with Ikimi, we asked her what prompted her to start the fund, what “inclu...

In 2023, Raimonds Tomsons was crowned The Best Sommelier of the World and also Best Sommelier of Europe 2017 by the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (A.S.I).

Throughout this fascinating conversation, we go deep into Raimonds story, including his origins at the renowned Vincents restaurant, his journey in wine as well as the trial and tribulations to reach the pinnacle of his profession.

Today, this very special guest details the many powerful lessons he has learned during his unforgettable journey of passion, triumph, and dedication.

We further discuss the world’s leading Sommelier co...

In this jam-packed episode, we talk with Stefan about his journey through the Michelin-starred ranks like Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison by Raymond Blanc and The Fat Duck and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, where he achieved his MS designation in 2017. We then discuss his new online course, tips on blind tasting, whether “supertasters” exist, which varietals or regions get easily mixed up during MS studying, and more. If you’re looking to become more knowledgeable about anything and everything wine, Stefan Neumann, MS, is a wonderful resource.

“Master Sommelier” is a moniker saved for the most expert wine tasters...

South Korea has a plethora of regional brews that are slowly finding their way internationally. 

Today we speak with Carol Pak, Founder of Sool about her journey creating Makgeolli and Soju for the North American market .  

A Columbia Business School MBA alum, Carol is a native New Yorker who wants to introduce the world to the magic of Korean spirits and elixirs. Previously part of ZX Ventures (owned by AB InBev), Carol developed a new beverage brand in China which opened her eyes to the possibility of introducing a new beverage category to the West. In...

Join us as we explore the story behind Texas’s emerging wine industry in today’s episode.

Although California and Washington are often considered the main attractions for exquisite vineyards and wine production in the United States, the Lone Star State is an underdog of sorts in the world of wine. As one of the oldest vine-growing states in America, the long, hot Texas summers are perfect for grapevine development. Today, this oenophile’s oasis holds approximately 4,000 acres of vineyards. In addition, about 443 wine producers reside in Texas, making the state a hot topic for wine connoisseurs.

I...

In this inspiring and stirring episode, we invite food lovers and connoisseurs alike to explore what cooking is all about—inside and outside a MICHELIN Guide Restaurant. So come along as we dive into the fascinating world of fine dining.

Join us in today’s podcast episode for a conversation about innovative fine dining with Stefan Stiller, three-star MICHELIN Chef. In his position as Chef-Owner at Taian Table in Shanghai and Guangzhou, Chef Stefan crafts and serves exquisite food for guests from around the world, yet he emphasizes innovation over perfection. To earn three MICHELIN stars, a restau...

There is more than meets the eye regarding social media marketing in China.

In the second part of our interview with Chinese social media and marketing expert Olivia Plotnick, the Founder of Wai Social, we discuss how wine companies should adapt their messaging for Chinese consumers.

Olivia’s unparalleled insight into China marketing allows us to ask important questions about the culture surrounding Chinese social media. In today’s episode we discuss which social media channels make the most sense for F&B. 

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There is a notable distinction between Western and Chinese social media, and this difference is worth studying for companies wanting to ensure brand success. In China specifically, brands wishing to successfully market their products to the general public need to expertly navigate the complex, ever-evolving Chinese social media landscape. This is where this episode’s special guest comes in!

Join us in our conversation about Chinese social media and marketing with Olivia Plotnick, the Founder of Wai Social, a company responsible for curating and executing intentional social media strategies for clients.

Olivia’s unparalleled insight into...

Thailand’s wine market is expected to grow annually by roughly 7% between 2023-2027.

Listen in as we examine Thailand's wine business through the eyes of an expert.

Today, we are joined by Fabien Gachet, National Sales Director in charge of HORECA and Marketing at Independent Wine & Spirits to discuss Thailand’s growing thirst for wine. Fabien is based in Thailand and has previously worked in Shanghai, China with some of the most dynamic wine brands.

In today’s podcast we will discuss the wine styles and trends that dominate the Thai market and the un...

From clothing to coffee, sustainable options are on the rise today. Although it is often difficult and expensive to produce sustainable products, that doesn’t stop Clean Coffee & Laundry. This Hong Kong-based café specializes in resource-friendly coffee items and low-waste laundry facilities. It was born from the desire to promote eco-friendly practices and is undoubtedly making a difference.

Tune in as we talk all things sustainable with Clean Coffee & Laundry Co-Founder Cynthia Lok. We will consider everyday ecological actions, alternative coffee options that are both affordable and waste-effective, and the company’s ultimate journey to sustainability. Clean Coffe...