S3 E9 The Wine Pair Episode

Bob Cutler switches from cocktails to corks, pouring a glass of Italian vino and welcoming Joe and Carmela, co-hosts of The Wine Pair Podcast. Known for their accessible style, the pair share how their show was born during the pandemic as a creative outlet and a way to explore wine together. The trio talk about interviewing winemakers, connecting with listeners, and building a community that avoids the snobbery too often tied to wine culture.

Key Topics

Making Wine Accessible

Joe and Carmela break down barriers to wine appreciation by setting a friendly price cap and speaking in plain language. Like Bob, their humor and candor make wine less intimidating for everyday drinkers.

Honest Reviews and Ratings

By buying their own bottles and using a no-nonsense scale, the pair keep their opinions genuine—offering listeners a trusted shortcut in a crowded wine market.

Wine as Community and Journey

From winemaker interviews to bucket-list vineyard travels, they highlight wine as both a cultural exploration and a way to connect people across geography and generations.

(0:29–1:17) Bob meets Joe and Carmela, co-hosts of The Wine Pair Podcast, who built their show during the pandemic as a creative project and outlet.

(5:14–5:56) Their rule: review wines under $25, buying every bottle themselves to keep reviews honest and accessible.

(11:07–11:48) Bob learns Joe and Carmela refuse free bottles—preferring unbiased takes and using a clear, simple rating system from “buy it” to “pour it down the sink.”

(14:15–15:40) Finding good wine means trusting importers, regions, and varietals instead of just fancy labels or scores.

(18:01–19:21)The trio share fan-favorite wines, dream trips to Burgundy and New Zealand, and how unscripted banter keeps their chemistry fresh.