Best Winetasting Podcasts (2025)

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31: The Top 10 Wines of 2025, and the Man Behind No. 1 32:00

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2h ago32:00

32:00

It's time to count down Wine Spectator's Top 10 Wines of 2025! And we're talking to the man behind our 2025 Wine of the Year—both before and after he heard the big news. Join host James Molesworth and director Rob Taylor as they reveal the most exciting wines of 2025, and then Château Giscoirs' Alexander Van Beek joins the program to talk about his…

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A Beautiful Year (with Diana Butler Bass) | Ep. 59 1:30:06

1d ago1:30:06

1:30:06

What if beauty isn’t something we chase, but something that’s been waiting for us all along? In this episode of Cabernet & Pray, we sit down with author and theologian Diana Butler Bass to talk about what it means to truly live a beautiful year. We discuss how joy, grief, and gratitude can all coexist at the same table. We explore what happens when…

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Separation of Church and Hate (with John Fugelsang) | Ep. 58 1:03:02

15d ago1:03:02

1:03:02

What happens when Christianity gets weaponized for political gain? When culture wars hijack the gospel of love? In this episode, we unpack John Fugelsang's book, Separation of Church and Hate, exploring why following Jesus might actually mean breaking up with some forms of Christianity. Pour a glass, lean in, and let’s talk about what it really mea…

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The Fellowship of Guilt | Ep. 57 28:43

1M ago28:43

28:43

What if doing the right thing still made you guilty? Dietrich Bonhoeffer believed that following Jesus sometimes meant stepping straight into the mess—into what he called “the fellowship of guilt.” But was he right? In this episode, we grapple with one of the most challenging ethical questions in the Christian narrative: Can faithfulness ever neces…

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30: It's Not About Michael Silacci. It's About Opus One 25:20

2M ago25:20

25:20

Few California wineries can match Opus One for global prestige. A famous partnership between Napa's Robert Mondavi and Bordeaux's Baron Philippe de Rothschild, the winery is still making elite Cabernets long after its founders' passing, thanks in large part to one man whose name you might not know: Michael Silacci. Silacci has guided Opus One for m…

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Hell Bent (with Brian Recker) | Ep. 56 1:23:06

2M ago1:23:06

1:23:06

What happens when Christians start rethinking the very idea of hell? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray, we sit down with Brian Recker to ask the questions many of us were told we weren’t allowed to ask. Is hell really eternal conscious torment? What about annihilation? Could universalism actually be more faithful to Jesus? And how do history, cu…

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Downsizing Evangelicalism (with Michelle Van Loon) | Ep. 55 1:00:05

2M ago1:00:05

1:00:05

What if the shrinking of evangelicalism isn’t a crisis to be feared but an opportunity to rediscover something truer, leaner, and more like Jesus? In this episode, I sit down with author Michelle Van Loon to talk about what’s being lost, what’s worth keeping, and why smaller might actually be better for the future of faith. Grab a glass, pull up a …

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The Water Had Not Yet Turned into Wine | Ep. 54 35:13

3M ago35:13

35:13

What if you’re not the same person you used to be—and that’s exactly the point? In this episode, I explore the strange and beautiful truth that growth requires us to let old versions of ourselves fade away, like water waiting to be turned into wine. From awkward past opinions (yes, I found some of mine in print!) to Taylor Swift lyrics and even a l…

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Reviving the Golden Rule (with Andrew DeCort) | Ep. 53 1:36:00

3M ago1:36:00

1:36:00

In this episode, we dig into why the most famous command in Christianity has become more of a coffee mug slogan than an actual way of life. We’ll explore how we’ve domesticated Jesus’ radical ethic into something polite and toothless… and what it would take to bring its wild, world-flipping power back. We’ll look at what happens when faith stops be…

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The Good News About Evil | Ep. 52 30:25

4M ago30:25

30:25

What if evil is never as strong as it seems? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray, we wade into the heaviness of the world (child trafficking, genocide, injustice) and wrestle with what it means to have hope in the face of it. We explore a surprising biblical theme that runs throughout the Psalms and the prophets. We consider Bonhoeffer’s call to j…

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Shame-Sex Attraction (with Lucas Wilson) | Ep. 51 1:21:34

4M ago1:21:34

1:21:34

What if we told the stories the church has tried to bury? In Episode 51 of Cabernet and Pray, I sit down with Lucas Wilson—academic, editor of Shame-Sex Attraction, and survivor. We dive into the sobering realities of conversion therapy, explore the toxic cocktail of shame and theology, and examine how fear—especially the fear of hell—is weaponized…

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What Makes a Nation Christian? | Ep. 50 33:13

5M ago33:13

33:13

Is America a Christian nation? In this bold milestone episode of Cabernet and Pray, we take a hard look at Jesus’ own criteria for judging nations from Matthew 25. Spoiler: Jesus doesn’t mention Supreme Court rulings, Ten Commandments in schools, or how many evangelicals show up to vote. He talks about the poor, the immigrant, the sick, and the pri…

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29: Christian Seely and the '61 Palmer to Go 21:59

4M ago21:59

21:59

He's the man behind some of the most prestigious names in wine, including Bordeaux's Pichon Baron and Portugal's Quinta do Noval, and now AXA Millésimes managing director Christian Seely is behind the mic on the newest episode of Wine Spectator's Straight Talk podcast. "People do not drink Château Pichon because they're trying to get the alcohol co…

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The Cosmic Christ and Concrete Jesus (with Kevin Sweeney) | Ep. 49 1:13:39

5M ago1:13:39

1:13:39

What if there’s more to Jesus than the guy in sandals from Nazareth? In this episode, Kevin Sweeney returns to dive into the deep end of the theological pool—exploring the radical beauty of the Cosmic Christ and the liberating call of the Concrete Jesus. It’s the episode where mysticism meets justice, the black prophetic tradition meets the mystics…

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The Paradox of Tolerance | Ep. 48 31:00

6M ago31:00

31:00

What if loving your neighbor means confronting someone else? In this episode, Jeremy takes a deep dive into a misunderstood (and rarely discussed) concept in Christian ethics: the paradox of tolerance. What happens when hospitality toward one becomes hostility toward others? And what if Jesus intentionally excluded people... for the sake of the vul…

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Rethinking and Rebuilding (with Josh Patterson) | Ep. 47 1:49:49

6M ago1:49:49

1:49:49

Ever wondered what happens when two theologically curious podcast hosts bring their shows together over a glass of wine? Episode 47 is part divine disruption, part spiritual therapy session, and 100% a good time. Jeremy Jernigan sits down with Josh Patterson of Rethinking Faith to talk about reconstructing theology, open and relational views of God…

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Theology with Imagination (with Brian Zahnd) | Ep. 46 1:12:55

6M ago1:12:55

1:12:55

What happens when one of the most provocative theological voices of our time sits down with a glass of wine and reimagines everything? In this episode, Jeremy talks with Brian Zahnd about peacemaking, the prophetic role of the church, why evangelicalism may not recover, and what happens when we start to believe Jesus actually meant what he said. It…

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Curiosity and Poor Eyesight | Ep. 45 30:43

7M ago30:43

30:43

What if the only thing separating you from deeper faith… is your doubt? In this episode, we uncork the connection between spiritual curiosity and our inability to see clearly — and why that’s not a flaw, but a feature of real theology. Jesus doesn’t demand certainty. He invites wonder. Click here to watch the episode on video. -------------- Join t…

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Queer and Christian (with Brandan Robertson) | Ep. 44 57:29

7M ago57:29

57:29

This week, we’re uncorking a bold conversation that challenges assumptions, celebrates authenticity, and dives into the complexity of faith and identity. What does it mean to be queer and Christian? You’ll hear personal journeys, tough questions, unexpected grace, and the beauty of holding space for queerness in spirituality. Whether you're in the …

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28: Growing Up Kistler … And Coming Home to Occidental 25:44

8M ago25:44

25:44

Occidental winemaker Catherine Kistler grew up with an in-house wine legend: California Chardonnay icon, and also her dad, Steve. But Catherine came home to make Pinot Noir in 2017, and they landed at No. 2 on Wine Spectator’s 2023 Top 10 Wines of the Year. “In California we’re always self-conscious of being young compared to the Old World,” she te…

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#43: What's the Deal with Hell? 45:30

8M ago45:30

45:30

Are there different ways to understand hell in Christianity? In this thought-provoking episode, Jeremy tackles one of the most challenging theological concepts that many struggle with. If you've ever questioned traditional teachings about eternal punishment or wondered if there are other interpretations supported by scripture, this episode offers a…

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#42: The Spirituality of Wine (with Gisela Kreglinger) 1:07:01

8M ago1:07:01

1:07:01

What if drinking wine was more than just a pleasure—it was a spiritual practice? In this episode, we sit down with theologian and wine expert Gisela Kreglinger to explore the deep connections between wine, faith, and community. Growing up in a German winery, Gisela brings a unique perspective on how wine shapes our conversations, our celebrations, …

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#41: Why Christianity is Unfair 32:03

9M ago32:03

32:03

Is karma real? Or does Jesus operate in a way that turns our sense of fairness upside down? In this episode, we dive into one of Jesus’ most radical parables from Matthew 20, exploring why fairness might not be the point—and why that’s actually good news. Grab a glass of wine and join us for a thought-provoking discussion on grace, justice, and wha…

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#40: The New Evangelicals (with Tim Whitaker) 1:02:36

9M ago1:02:36

1:02:36

Join Jeremy and Tim Whitaker, founder of The New Evangelicals, for an unfiltered and entertaining conversation tackling tough topics in faith, church culture, and beyond—all while sipping on wine. Whether you're wrestling with your faith, navigating church hurt, or just curious about new perspectives, this episode delivers humor, depth, and a lot o…

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#39: The Worst Chapter in the Bible 30:29

10M ago30:29

30:29

What happens when the God of the Old Testament seems unrecognizable next to the Jesus of the New Testament? In this thought-provoking episode of Cabernet and Pray, we tackle what Jeremy calls “the worst chapter in the Bible,” Numbers 31. Together, we confront the shocking themes of revenge, violence, and divine commands that seem incompatible with …

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#38: Loving Jesus Too Much 33:10

10M ago33:10

33:10

Can you love Jesus so much that it leaves others feeling unloved? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray, we unpack a poignant quote from A.W. Tozer’s widow that has sparked a surprising amount of debate among Christians. Join us as we dive into what it truly means to balance a love for God with a love for others, all while sipping on a gorgeous 2021…

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#37: Church in the Brewery (with Mark McKinney) 1:10:39

11M ago1:10:39

1:10:39

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we explore the creative expressions of the church with Mark McKinney, an innovator who is challenging traditional church structures. We dive into the unpredictability of faith journeys, the critical need for true discipleship in modern Christianity, and the fascinating intersection of faith…

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#36: Star-Spangled Jesus (with April Ajoy) 1:05:34

11M ago1:05:34

1:05:34

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we're diving deep into the complexities of faith, politics, and personal transformation with our guest, April Ajoy. April, an author and content creator known for her book "Star Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding a True Faith," joins us to unpack the deconstruction movement amon…

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#35: The Wicked Servant 28:28

12M ago28:28

28:28

Click here to watch the episode on video. Interested in staying in one of our short-term rentals in wine country? Click here to see our two homes. In today's episode, Jeremy shares some exciting personal updates, including the opening of a second rental property in Oregon wine country, the charmingly named "Vino Victorian." But the core of today's …

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#34: American Idolatry (with Andrew Whitehead) 1:03:05

12M ago1:03:05

1:03:05

Click here to watch the episode on video. We're thrilled to have Andrew Whitehead, an esteemed professor of sociology and author of "American Idolatry: How Christian Nationalism Betrays the Gospel and Threatens the Church." In this episode, we dive into the complex world of Christian nationalism in America through Andrew's insightful lens. We explo…

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27: Counting Down the Top 10 Wines of 2024 24:32

12M ago24:32

24:32

It's our season 2 finale and we're counting down Wine Spectator's Top 10 Wines of 2024! But before James reveals this year's 10 most exciting wines, including Wine Spectator's 2024 Wine of the Year, we're taking a look at the economic state of the U.S. wine market with longtime industry insider Rocco Lombardo, president of Wilson Daniels, and our v…

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#33: Space Racism 35:20

1y ago35:20

35:20

Click here to watch the episode on video. Want to join us on a wine and whiskey trip to Oregon? Find out more HERE. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the fascinating intersection of faith and technology, responding to your comments and critiques about our previous discussion on the ethics of robots. From accusations of irrelevance to insightf…

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#32: Tell Me When I Get There (with Sean Palmer) 1:01:13

1y ago1:01:13

1:01:13

Click here to watch the episode on video. Want to join us on a wine and whiskey trip to Oregon? Find out more HERE. In this episode, Sean Palmer, author and teaching pastor at Ecclesia Houston, invites us on a thought-provoking journey discussing memorable wine experiences, evolving beliefs about wealth, and the pressing challenges facing Christian…

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#31: Robot Theology (with Joshua K. Smith) 1:06:37

1y ago1:06:37

1:06:37

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we dive deep into the fascinating intersection of spirituality, philosophy, and cutting-edge technology with a very special guest—Joshua K. Smith. Josh is not just a cybersecurity analyst but also a theologian, former pastor, and insightful author. As we sip on exquisite wines—Jeremy with a crisp 2021…

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26: Harvest Reality Check with Thomas Rivers Brown 24:52

1y ago24:52

24:52

Napa Valley is in the thick of harvest 2024, the busiest time of year in wine country, and Napa Cabernet superstar Thomas Rivers Brown took a break to tell us about the realities of harvest season—hope you like cleaning!—as well as his “Ziploc baggy mini-maceration method” for deciding when a vineyard is ready to be picked. Plus, Wine Spectator’s D…

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#30: Do You Still Talk to Grandma? (with Brit Barron) 52:34

1y ago52:34

52:34

Click here to watch the episode on video. We're celebrating a significant milestone—our 30th episode! We talk with Brit Baron, speaker, storyteller, and author of the compelling new book, "Do You Still Talk to Grandma?" Brit reflects on her journey of evolving beliefs and personal growth, touching on the psychological concept of cognitive closure a…

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#29: The Space Between Us (with Sarah Bauer Anderson) 1:09:56

1y ago1:09:56

1:09:56

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome to another episode of "Cabernet and Pray." In today's episode, we sit down with Sarah Bauer Anderson, a deeply insightful author whose journey of faith and personal growth offers a compelling narrative for anyone navigating the complexities of religion, politics, and family dynamics. About 15 years …

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25: Crushing It Softly at Kistler Vineyards 20:36

1y ago20:36

20:36

When it comes to California Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, few names command as much respect as Sonoma's Kistler Vineyards. Kistler president and winemaker Jason Kesner joined Straight Talk host James Molesworth to tell us about growing up in the Napa wine industry—including where Robert Mondavi bought the weekly staff donuts—and how he strives to do a…

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#28: The Word Became Speechless 32:58

1y ago32:58

32:58

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today, we explore the "Word of God." Do you share the belief that the Bible holds the ultimate authority? Or do you see Jesus as the living "Word of God" that John 1 speaks of? We'll wrestle with these questions and more. In this episode, we'll journey through the rich and often paradoxical imagery of the l…

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#27: Ministers of Propaganda (with Scott Coley) 52:24

1+ y ago52:24

52:24

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we have Scott M. Coley, a philosophy lecturer at Mount St. Mary's University and author of an intriguing new book. We explore the spiritual side of propaganda and how it's used in religious contexts. We tackle some thought-provoking topics, including the oft-heard phrase "I don't see color,…

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#26: The Fear Peddlers 33:42

1+ y ago33:42

33:42

Click here to watch the episode on video. Today we're diving into a topic that often stirs deep emotions in the Christian community: fear (and the shame that often follows). We'll unpack the roots of fear, often instilled by religious leaders, and challenge it with biblical insights from 1 Corinthians. We’ll also have an honest conversation about t…

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24: Chef Daniel Boulud on Legacy, 'The Bear' and Being an American 25:43

1+ y ago25:43

25:43

Straight from the cover of Wine Spectator and the season 3 premiere of hit TV series The Bear, legendary chef Daniel Boulud invites us into the Daniel dining room for an exclusive interview about what it means to be a chef today, his legacy of mentorship and why his next restaurant will reflect a shift in allegiance since becoming a U.S. citizen in…

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#25: From Church to Cocktails (with Jordan Hughes) 1:34:17

1+ y ago1:34:17

1:34:17

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome to "Cabernet and Pray," episode 25! Today we are joined by Jordan Hughes, also known as the "High Proof Preacher." Jordan, a renowned commercial photographer and videographer from Portland, Oregon, shares his journey from growing up in a church-centric life to becoming a cocktail expert and social m…

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#24: Blood From a Stone (with Adam McHugh) 56:17

1+ y ago56:17

56:17

Click here to watch the episode on video. In this episode, we sit down with Adam McHugh, a former hospice chaplain turned sommelier and wine tour guide, as we dive into a fascinating conversation blending spirituality, personal transformation, and the world of wine. Adam, the author of the memoir "Blood from a Stone," shares his remarkable journey …

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23: Farming 'Promiscuously' with Napa's Meghan Zobeck 26:58

1+ y ago26:58

26:58

A few days after winemaker Meghan Zobeck started her new job at Napa's historic Burgess Cellars, the winery burned down in the 2020 wildfires. With the help of owner Gaylon Lawrence and CEO Carlton McCoy, not only did Burgess bounce back, but Zobeck's followup 2021 Cabernets are outstanding. She tells us about her journey from the NFL to Chile's Cl…

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#23: Living in Love (with Greg Boyd) 1:30:24

1+ y ago1:30:24

1:30:24

Click here to watch the episode on video. This week, we are joined by the insightful and influential Christian scholar Greg Boyd, who brings three decades of pastoral experience from Woodland Hills Church and a robust body of theological writings. In this episode, we dive into the intriguing concept of sensory bubbles, exploring how they shape our …

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#22: From Ocean Waves to Rooftop Dreams (with Kevin Sweeney) 1:07:11

1+ y ago1:07:11

1:07:11

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome to another episode of "Cabernet and Pray," where faith meets everyday life over a glass of fine wine. I'm your host, Jeremy Jernigan, and today, we're thrilled to have a thought-provoking and dynamic guest, Kevin Sweeney. Kevin, a pastor, podcast host, and author from Hawaii dives deep into the esse…

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22: Patz & Hall's James Hall Buys It Back 28:00

1+ y ago28:00

28:00

Patz & Hall co-founder James Hall is still pinching himself: After selling the iconic California Chardonnay brand in 2016, Hall was able to buy it back earlier this year. He tells us how he did it, and then takes us all the way back to landing his first winery gig in Napa … by pretending he could speak Italian?! Straight Talk host James Molesworth …

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#21: Breaking the Stigma 44:45

1+ y ago44:45

44:45

Click here to watch the episode on video. Welcome back to another episode of Cabernet and Pray. Today, we pause our usual schedule to address a deeply personal and pressing topic that challenges many families: mental health. Our host, Jeremy Jernigan, explores a video of John MacArthur to dissect and debate the contentious views circulating within …

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Disarming Leviathan (with Caleb Campbell) 1:09:20

1+ y ago1:09:20

1:09:20

Click here to watch the episode on video. As we uncork the 20th episode of Cabernet and Pray, I'm joined by Caleb Campbell, not just to relish in our shared love for a fine Cabernet Sauvignon but to unpack the complexities of Christian nationalism. Caleb, a pastor and author, brings his upcoming book "Disarming Leviathan: Loving your Christian Nati…