Wine with altitude: Tessa Brown from Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown
In this episode of the Halliday Wine Companion Podcast, winemaker Tessa Brown shares her remarkable journey from growing up on a sugarcane farm in Queensland to establishing boutique winery Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown in Beechworth. Tessa opens up about the challenges and triumphs of winemaking, the importance of careful site selection, and her philosophy of capturing purity of fruit in their wines. She discusses the benefits of collaboration with neighbouring vineyards, the unique impact of high altitude viticulture, and insights into their range, including riesling and nebbiolo. Connect with us: Halliday Wine Companion Halliday Wine Companion on Instagram Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown on Instagram Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown Halliday Wine Club Buy the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion LANGTONS LANGTONS on Instagram Key Takeaways: Tessa’s path to winemaking was inspired by her family’s experience with commodity farming. A visit to a cellar door revealed the deep connection between growers and consumers, influencing her decision to study viticulture. Establishing Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown required careful planning and mentorship from industry experts. The Beechworth property was undeveloped, offering a blank canvas for innovative viticulture. Grape varieties were chosen based on site potential and Tessa’s personal taste preferences. Early challenges included delayed harvests due to bushfires, with the first successful commercial harvest in 2021. Collaborating with neighbouring vineyards has proven mutually beneficial. High altitude vineyards provide advantages such as better acid retention and distinct flavour profiles. The Obstgarten range showcases a modern approach to riesling and other varieties, inspired by European – specifically German – techniques. Tessa’s winemaking philosophy focuses on minimal intervention to highlight the essence of the fruit. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Acknowledging the Land and Introduction to Winemaking 03:00 From Sugarcane to Vines: Tessa’s Journey 05:59 Establishing Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown 09:02 The Beechworth Property: A New Beginning 11:40 Choosing Varieties: The First Plantings 14:59 Harvesting and Early Challenges 17:40 Collaborations and Neighboring Vineyards 20:29 High Altitude Winemaking: Influence on Wine 23:39 The Obstgarten Range: A New Direction 26:42 Winemaking Philosophy: Capturing Purity of Fruit 29:51 Future Plans and Cellar Door ExperienceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Unlocking the Secrets of Terroir with Pedro Parra, aka Dr Terroir
In this episode of the Halliday Wine Companion Podcast, we sit down with Pedro Parra, one of the world’s most respected terroir consultants, to explore the deep and fascinating relationship between land and wine. Pedro shares his remarkable journey from studying music to becoming a global expert on terroir, helping winemakers across continents – including Alkina Wine Estate in the Barossa – understand how soil, rocks, and climate shape the soul of a wine. From the complexities of soil structure to the evolving tastes of modern wine drinkers, Pedro breaks down why terroir is the DNA of great wine. The conversation also dives into the future of terroir consulting, how climate change is challenging traditional viticulture, and why the next generation of wine lovers is redefining authenticity. This episode is a masterclass in how understanding the ground beneath the vines leads to extraordinary wines above it. Connect with us: Halliday Wine Companion Halliday Wine Companion on Instagram Pedro Parra on Instagram Alkina Wine EstateAlkina Wine Estate on Instagram Halliday Wine Club Buy the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion LANGTONS LANGTONS on Instagram Key Takeaways Terroir is the genetic code of wine, encompassing soil, rock, and climate. Pedro Parra is a world-leading terroir consultant shaping modern winemaking. Soil composition and rock type have direct influence on wine expression. The wine market is evolving toward authenticity and site-driven wines. Younger drinkers are more engaged with provenance and uniqueness. Global warming is changing traditional growing regions. Terroir knowledge helps winemakers adapt and thrive. The role of consultants in vineyard design is expanding rapidly. Understanding terroir is fundamental to future wine excellence. Chapters 00:00 – Acknowledging the Land and Its Custodians00:25 – Introduction to Terroir Consulting02:52 – Understanding Terroir: The Genetic Connection06:13 – The Evolving Appreciation for Terroir10:41 – The Importance of Terroir in Wine Quality12:24 – The Role of Soil and Rocks in Terroir15:23 – The Connection Between Terroir and Wine Expression19:30 – The Complexity of Soil Types and Their Impact25:01 – Choosing the Right Varieties for Terroir30:13 – Tasting and Understanding Barossa Wines33:24 – Exploring Calcoschist and Schist Terroirs39:39 – The Art of Dilution in Winemaking44:01 – Understanding Clay and Its Impact on Wine52:19 – The Process of Terroir Consulting57:20 – Designing Vineyards from Scratch01:01:02 – Navigating Client Expectations in Terroir Analysis01:05:13 – The Significance of Single Vineyard Labels01:06:08 – Major Discoveries in Terroir UnderstandingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Matt Preston meets his match | The ultimate food and wine pairings
In this episode of the Halliday Wine Companion Podcast we sit down with food critic, author, former MasterChef Australia judge, and wine enthusiast Matt Preston to share his distinctive perspective on the world of wine. From the art of tasting and the magic of food pairings to the crucial role of sommeliers, Matt delves into what makes wine such a captivating experience. He opens up about his personal journey with wine, memorable moments that shaped his palate, and the evolving landscape of global wine culture. We touch on wine pricing, value, and the joy of discovering new regions and flavours. With quickfire questions and candid reflections, this episode offers both knowledge and entertainment for wine lovers and curious listeners alike. Connect with us: Halliday Wine Companion Halliday Wine Companion on Instagram Matt Preston on Instagram Halliday Wine Club Buy the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion LANGTONS LANGTONS on Instagram Key Takeaways Wine is more than a beverage — it’s an art form. The “oh hello” moment in wine tasting is truly unforgettable. Comparative tasting (side-by-side) enhances appreciation. Sommeliers are storytellers who elevate every wine experience. The right food and wine pairing transforms a meal. The wrong wine can ruin even the best dish. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 02:53 – The Art of Wine Tasting06:08 – Matt’s Personal Journey with Wine08:57 – Wine and Food Pairing Philosophy11:48 – The Role of Sommeliers14:54 – Wine Pricing and Value17:41 – Exploring Wine Regions20:50 – Memorable Wine Experiences23:35 – Quickfire Questions26:38 – Guilty Pleasures and Wine Preferences29:21 – Future Projects and Closing ThoughtsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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"Wine should be judged by style, not variety." | Mike Bennie is a Podcast Natural
In this episode of the Halliday Wine Companion podcast, Halliday taster, drinks writer and liquor merchant Mike Bennie shares his path into the wine industry, his passion for natural wines, and how Australia’s wine scene has evolved. He reflects on founding Sydney’s groundbreaking Rootstock Festival, the challenge of defining natural wine, and judging Halliday’s inaugural ‘wildcard’ category. Mike also makes a case for judging wine by style, explains why he’s a champion of under-the-radar regions such as Queensland’s Granite Belt, and discusses how personal style influences wine culture. The conversation wraps with a playful debate on wine and cheese pairings. Connect with us: Mike Bennie on Instagram Halliday Wine Companion Halliday Wine Companion on Instagram Halliday Wine Club Buy the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion LANGTONS LANGTONS on Instagram Takeaways Mike Bennie transitioned from law into the wine world. Natural wine covers a broad range of styles. Rootstock Festival shone a spotlight on natural wine producers. Australia’s natural wine movement has grown and matured. Natural wine is grounded in organic farming and minimal intervention. Halliday’s new wildcard category fosters diversity. Mike argues wine should be judged by style rather than variety. He often gets pigeonholed as a ‘natural wine guy’. He champions regions like Queensland’s Granite Belt. Wine and cheese pairings are often overrated. Chapters 00:00 Acknowledging the Land and Introduction00:53 Mike Bennie’s Journey into Wine02:06 The Allure of Natural Wines03:28 Founding Sydney’s Rootstock Festival05:09 Evolution of the Natural Wine Scene06:25 Defining Natural Wine08:15 Shifts in Natural Wine Styles10:01 The Wildcard Category in Wine Judging11:26 Categorisation in Wine Judging14:12 Proposing Changes in Wine Judging17:01 The Importance of Style in Wine Lists18:28 Pigeonholed as a ‘Natural Wine Guy’19:56 A Deep Dive into Wine Knowledge24:15 Personal Style and Image in the Wine Industry27:23 Championing Under-the-Radar Wine Regions34:50 The Wine and Cheese Debate37:06 Quickfire Questions and Personal PreferencesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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2026 Halliday Wine of the Year | Giles Cooke of Thistledown Wines
In this episode of the Halliday Wine Companion Podcast, Giles Cooke MW, co-founder of Thistledown Wines, shares his journey in the wine industry and the philosophy behind his winemaking. He reflects on winning Wine of the Year, the history of the Smart Vineyard in McLaren Vale, and the techniques used to craft wines that are expressive of site. Host Anna Webster and Giles explore the challenges and rewards of the Master of Wine program, the potential of grenache in Australia, and Giles’ personal passion for food and wine pairing. The conversation also touches on the 2024 vintage, the balance of intuition and experience in winemaking, and future aspirations for Thistledown Wines. Connect with us: Thistledown Wines Thistledown Wines on Instagram Giles Cooke MW on Instagram Halliday Wine Companion Halliday Wine Companion on Instagram Halliday Wine Club Buy the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion LANGTONS LANGTONS on Instagram Key Takeaways The Smart Vineyard holds historic significance in McLaren Vale Great winemaking is about translating the vineyard into the bottle Grenache is often misunderstood because of its lighter style and colour The 2024 vintage was generous compared to previous years The Master of Wine program is rigorous and demands dedication Winemaking combines experience, intuition and trial and error Thistledown Wines focuses on medium-bodied, food-friendly wines Episode Chapters 00:00 – Winning Wine of the Year: A Journey of Doubt and Pride03:35 – The Smart Vineyard: History and Significance06:30 – Crafting the Wine: Techniques and Philosophy12:08 – Tasting the Wine: Aromatics and Flavour Profile14:00 – The 2024 Vintage: Insights and Decisions16:32 – Giles Cooke’s Wine Journey: From Passion to Profession18:33 – Master of Wine: The Challenges and Experience21:08 – Learning Winemaking: Experience and Intuition24:08 – Establishing Thistledown: Vision and Challenges27:35 – The Evolution of Grenache: Perception and Future29:55 – Exploring Other Varieties: Grenache Blanc and More31:59 – Quickfire Questions: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Halliday Wine Companion Podcast, leave a review, and share it with others who love Australian wine.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Halliday Wine Companion Podcast (formerly known as By The Glass) is back with a new look, a new host, and a bunch of new and exciting guests.
Join Halliday editor Anna Webster as she sits down with industry experts – including winemakers, sommeliers, distillers, critics, retailers, and more – to chat about, unpack and explore a range of wine- and drinks-related topics.
From interviews with top producers and the stories behind your favourite bottles, to the science of cellaring, deep dives into wine regions and grape varieties, and much more, this fun and conversational podcast is essential listening for anyone who loves wine.
So, pour a glass and settle in.
Australia