Unwined with Mandi Robertson

Today’s show is all about storytelling—because behind every great bottle of wine, there’s a voice, a place, and a purpose. We’re kicking things off with one of the most respected voices in the wine world, Jacky Blisson MW. She’s joining us to talk about her brand-new YouTube docuseries, The Wine Resistance—a powerful look at the people reshaping the future of wine, one vineyard at a time. Then, we’re heading down to South America for a taste of Chile, where I’ll be speaking with Mrs. Aida Toro of Chocalan Wines. She’ll share the story behind her winery, her passion, and what makes Chilean wine so compelling right now. And we won’t stop there—because we’re also making our way to Uruguay, one of the most exciting emerging wine regions today. I’ll be joined by Alec Griffith from Bodega Garzón to talk about what’s putting this coastal region firmly on the global wine map.

Today on Unwined, it’s all about travel, taste, and the experiences that bring it all together. With Easter just around the corner, we begin in the kitchen with something a little unexpected—but absolutely delicious. Tony Drakos from Zoe Olive Oil joins us to share a chocolate olive oil cake recipe and to explore how this simple ingredient can completely transform both flavour and texture. Then, we step into the world of travel at its most elevated. Emma Sleight from The World's 50 Best Hotels joins us to talk about what defines one of the best hotels in the world, how these properties are selected, and what to expect ahead of this year’s highly anticipated announcement in Paris this September. You can find more information on Emma's website at worlds50best.com And finally, as travel continues to evolve, we take a closer look at how to navigate it all. Cindy Almond, one of Canada’s leading travel agents, joins us to break down what travel agents actually do today, how they can elevate your experience, and whether—with rising fuel costs—it’s smarter to be booking flights now rather than later.

Today on Unwined, the focus turns to one of Canada’s most exciting and rapidly evolving travel destinations—Prince Edward County. With its sandy beaches, standout wineries, vibrant food scene, and beautifully designed accommodations, the County offers a complete experience that continues to draw visitors from across the country. This episode explores the region through the people shaping it, including Keith Tyers from Closson Chase Winery—home to the iconic purple barn—along with Mackenzie Brisebois from Hinterland Wine Company, a producer dedicated exclusively to sparkling wine. For those planning a visit, the newly opened The Claramount Club also comes into focus, offering a stylish and inviting place to stay - we will be speaking with Lyndsay Richmond from this stunning establishment.   If Prince Edward County isn’t already on your radar, it soon will be!  To find out more about visiting the county, click on the link below: https://visitthecounty.com

Today on Unwined, the focus is on a theme that sits at the very heart of wine—wine as culture. Wine is not just something we drink… it is history, identity, craftsmanship, and a true reflection of the people and places behind it.  And there is no better place to explore this idea than Chianti Classico. To bring this theme to life, today’s show features an exceptional lineup of guests. First, the President of the Chianti Classico Consorzio, Giovanni Manetti—also the man behind Fontodi. He will share insight into the continued rise of Chianti Classico, and offer a deeper perspective on what wine and culture truly mean within the region. Next, Federica Mascheroni from Castello di Volpaia, a stunning medieval village where wine has been made for centuries. With a background in art restoration, she brings a unique and thoughtful perspective on the importance of preserving history, tradition, and cultural identity through wine. And finally, a story where art and wine intersect in the most extraordinary way. Michelangelo once owned a vineyard in Tuscany—and that legacy continues today at Nittardi. Leon Femfert will be joining the show to discuss the estate’s fascinating history and, of course, the beauty and expression of Sangiovese.

Today’s show is taking us on a little journey through the Mediterranean — from the rugged vineyards of southern France to the mountains of Greece, and even into the world of one of the most ancient and essential ingredients in cooking: olive oil. We’re starting in the Languedoc, one of France’s most dynamic and exciting wine regions, where passionate producers are redefining what southern French wines can be. I’ll be joined by Camille Valette from Domaine Canet-Valette, a winery that has built a reputation for soulful wines that really capture the wild beauty of the region. Then we head to Greece, where ancient grapes are having a well-deserved renaissance. Aris Tselepos from Tselepos Winery will introduce us to Moschofilero, one of Greece’s most aromatic and captivating white varieties — a grape that more wine lovers should absolutely have on their radar. And finally, because great food and great wine are inseparable, we’ll talk about something that sits at the heart of Mediterranean cuisine: olive oil. Tony Drakos from Zoe Olive Oil will join us to explain what makes truly great olive oil, why quality matters, and how the right bottle can transform even the simplest dish.

On today’s episode of Unwined with Mandi, we’re diving into a topic that’s very close to the heart of Quebec food culture: poutine. There’s a new effort underway to officially protect Quebec’s famous cheese curds — the ones that give poutine its signature squeak. Marjolaine Mondon from the Conseil des appellations réservées joins us to explain what this could mean for producers, restaurants, and poutine lovers here and around the world — and yes, we’ll even talk about the importance of that legendary “squeak factor.” Then we head to Greece to speak with Argyris Gerovassiliou from Domaine Gerovassiliou, a winery that helped revive the nearly extinct Malagousia grape and has become one of the country’s most exciting producers of terroir-driven wines. And finally, Chef Murteza Talu returns to the show to talk about his brand-new restaurant opening in Montreal — Il Teatro — and why it’s a place you’ll definitely want to book in the coming days. https://ilteatro.ca/en/

We’re diving into craftsmanship — in the glass and on the plate. First, we welcome Geneviève Charest, master blender at Sortilège, to talk about the art of blending Canadian whisky with Québec maple syrup. What does it actually take to balance spirit, sweetness, texture, and tradition? We’ll get into the science — and the magic — behind one of Québec’s most iconic bottles. Then, we head to Portugal with Teresa Araújo from Casa Ferreirinha, one of the Douro’s most historic estates. We’ll explore the legacy behind the winery and why Portuguese wines continue to impress with their freshness, energy, and sense of place. And finally, Ari Schor of Restaurant Beba joins us to share his culinary journey — from his roots to building one of Montreal’s most thoughtful and tradition-driven kitchens. Plus — of course — my affordable Wines of the Week, because great wine doesn’t have to break the bank.

Today - Unwined is packed. And we mean packed — with flavour, passion, and people who are absolutely obsessed with quality. First up, Chef Murteza Talu from the iconic Moishes joins us to talk about their Montréal en Lumière tasting menu. We’re diving into what makes a menu worthy of a festival that celebrates the very best of our city — and why Moishes continues to be a Montreal institution. Then, we shift into something beautifully local. Marc Antoine Joncas Zarate from Terroirs — a fine dining restaurant doing something bold and focused — building their cuisine around Quebec ingredients only. No shortcuts. No imports. Just pure terroir.  And then… we travel to Spain. Pepe Raventós — the visionary behind Raventós i Blanc in Penedès — joins us to talk about sparkling wine done with intention, history, and integrity.  It’s a show rooted in craftsmanship. In place. In people who care deeply about what ends up on your plate — and in your glass. For more info on the Unwined in Portugal All Inclusive Food & Wine Tour: https://youtu.be/eri9dPSLpbM For more info on Rézin's Les Possibles Wine Event : https://lepointdevente.com/billets/lespossibles2edition?lang=en

Today's show is kicking off with Wines of the Week — wines that've got you covered for both Valentine’s and Galentine’s. Whether you’re planning a candlelight romance or a no-drama night with your girls, we’ll talk about exactly what should be in your glass. Then… we’re going on a vin-venture to Crotia A country with over 2,000 years of winemaking history, indigenous grapes you’ve probably never tried, and a food culture that deserves way more attention than it gets. We’ll dive into the history, the culture, and why Croatian wine is quietly one of Europe’s most exciting stories right now. I’ll be speaking with Juraj Sladić, the winemaker behind Testament Winery — a producer that’s helping redefine modern Croatian wine. We’ll also talk to Saša Muradori, one of the co-operators behind Croatia Unpacked, about how to truly experience the country beyond the postcard version. And to close out the show, we’re bringing in Virginia Holst, creator of Wander Far – Spend Less, who will tell us how to travel to Croatia with kids — because yes, you can explore history, culture, food and wine… and still make it family-friendly. So today’s show is about more than what’s in your glass.It’s about why Croatia should be on your radar — especially if you’re planning a trip soon. 

This week on Unwined, Mandi Robertson takes listeners through a delicious mix of wine, food, and Montréal’s vibrant culinary scene. The show begins with Wines of the Week, including a spotlight on Casillero del Diablo Pinot Grigio, along with details about a tasting opportunity happening this Friday at the SAQ, where listeners can discover this fresh, easy-drinking white wine. Mandi is then joined by Victor Afonso from Tapeo, one of Montréal’s most beloved Spanish restaurants. Together, they discuss the joy of tapas, the culture of sharing plates, and how Tapeo has been welcoming diners for over 22 years, becoming a true staple of the city’s dining scene. Later in the show, Mandi speaks with Yves Lowe, Senior Director and Executive Chef of Gastronomic Programming for Montréal en Lumière. Yves walks listeners through the exciting programming of this year’s edition and what food lovers can look forward to during one of Montréal’s most anticipated festivals. To close the show, Mandi turns her attention to Germany, highlighting Dönnhoff, a beautiful estate known for its refined, expressive wines and strong sense of place. A thoughtful and flavour-filled episode celebrating wine, food, and the people behind them.

Today on Unwined with Mandi, we’re starting in Spain with Bodegas Martínez Lacuesta, one of Rioja’s historic benchmarks. I’ll be joined by Javier Bañales, who will walk us through what defines classic fine Rioja wines, why time and freshness matter so much, and why these wines remain timeless and deeply pleasurable to drink. Then, we head to Italy with Masi Agricola. Raffaele Boscaini will join me to talk about a brand-new Prosecco that’s just landed at the SAQ — what makes it different, why the branding changed, and why this is the kind of bottle you’ll want to have chilled and ready. And finally — something very exciting for Montreal food lovers. A brand-new Italian restaurant has just opened its doors, and today we have them in studio. Celebrated Montreal chef Steve Marcone joins me alongside his partner Viral Patel to introduce La Figata — a new address for Italian cuisine that’s already generating serious buzz.

We hear this word sustainability all the time - but what does it really mean when it comes to wine?   Today we’ll ask that question to Meghan Littlejohn program manager from Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. We will also have Alessio Planeta from Planeta Wines in Sicily. Alessio will talk about their SOStain program me.  Also we will chat with William Wilkinson- chief winemaker from Le Bonheur to talk about alternative packaging.  For information about Mandi's Portugal tour, visit https://deltatur.pt/en/unwined2026/

If you’ve ever been curious about Japan — the culture, the food, the drinks, or even what it actually takes to get there — today’s show is for you. We’re diving into all things Japan, from what’s in your glass, to what’s on your plate, to how to confidently plan a trip to one of the most fascinating countries in the world. We’ll be talking sake recommendations and how to enjoy them with Marie‑Hélène Boisvert, a sake educator, expert, and sommelier who helps make sake approachable and food-friendly.We’ll also be joined by Michael Tremblay, also known as Mr. Sake — a sake master, author, and educator who has dedicated his career to helping people truly understand what sake is and why it deserves a place at the table. Beyond the glass, Kuniko Fujita will join us to explore Japanese food culture and the different styles of Japanese restaurants — going well beyond sushi and ramen — and what these dining traditions can teach us about how Japan eats. And finally, if Japan has always felt like a dream destination but one you weren’t quite sure how to plan, Priscilla Portsmouth will be here to ease those worries, sharing practical travel tips and everything you need to know before booking that flight. From sake to food to travel, today’s show is all about making Japan feel less intimidating, more accessible, and incredibly inspiring. You can find more travel information at https://www.japan.travel/en/ca/

Best of Unwined: French Beaujolais wines, Douro valley Portugal, a Spanish recipe pairing

Best of Unwined: Quails' Gate in the Okanagan valley and Spanish Bierzo wines

Today is our final show of 2025, and we’re sending this year off in style — with bubbles, brilliance, and a little Highland elegance. If there was ever a time to open something unforgettable, it’s New Year’s Eve, and no champagne captures that feeling quite like Krug. A house built on individuality, precision, and the art of patience. And because celebrations don’t end with bubbles, we’re also diving into the world of whisky — but not just any whisky. We’re talking about one defined by lightness, texture, and quiet radiance: Glenmorangie. With us is Bryan Simpson, National Brand Ambassador, to guide us through what makes Glenmorangie so distinct!