Niagara on the Lake is raising the bar again. In this episode of Read Between the Wines, Pierre catches up with Adam Pearce, winemaker at Stone Eagle Winery and the talent behind the celebrated wines of Two Sisters in Ontario's Niagara region. Four years after their first conversation during the pandemic, Adam returns with big news. The once cult Stone Eagle label has grown into a full winery on Highway 55, with its own estate vineyards, focused portfolio and on site restaurant, The Nest. Together, Pierre and Adam explore what it really takes to build age worthy Canadian wines that reward patience, not just instant gratification. They dig into the details behind Stone Eagle's Cabernet Franc, the Eagle Eye Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, the Lush and Blanc de Franc sparkling wines, and why balance, structure and time remain the real luxuries in a small market like Canada. Adam also shares candid thoughts on climate change, extreme vintages, replanting difficult vineyards, and the constant tension between consumer demand, portfolio focus and winemaker curiosity. The conversation goes beyond the cellar. Pierre and Adam discuss the war on wine, the rise of low and no alcohol products, public health narratives, and why responsible enjoyment, food, place and human connection still sit at the heart of true wine culture. If you love Niagara, Cabernet Franc, serious Chardonnay and ambitious Canadian reds, this episode is for you. For more information about our Podcast, visit us on the web: https://readbetweenthewines.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betweenthewinesmedia Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/read-between-the-wines
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E80 - The Blue Zones · Dan Buettner
In this episode of Read Between the Wines, we welcome Dan Buettner—National Geographic explorer, Emmy Award-winning producer, and New York Times best-selling author. Dan is the visionary behind the Blue Zones, regions from Okinawa to Sardinia and Costa Rica where people regularly live into their 90s and 100s in remarkable health. We explore the secrets of longevity: plant-based diets, strong communities, daily movement, and storytelling that makes science memorable. Dan shares insights from his Netflix documentary Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones and his new book The Blue Zones Kitchen: One Pot Meals. And yes—wine lovers will discover why moderate red wine is central to Blue Zone cultures, enjoyed daily as part of meals, joy, and connection. For more information about our Podcast, visit us on the web: https://readbetweenthewines.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betweenthewinesmedia Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/read-between-the-wines
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E79 - Domaine Faiveley · Burgundy, France
Few names in Burgundy command as much admiration as Domaine Faiveley. Founded in 1825 and now led by seventh-generation Erwan Faiveley, the estate has become a benchmark of excellence for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. From its historic home in Nuits-Saint-Georges to its grands crus across the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, Faiveley represents the very soul of Burgundy. In this episode, Erwan reflects on nearly two centuries of family stewardship, exploring how Domaine Faiveley continues to balance tradition with innovation in an ever-changing world. We discuss the artistry of vineyard management, the lessons of history, and the evolving challenges of climate and culture that shape Burgundy today. Listeners will gain insight into some of Burgundy's most iconic vineyards, from Corton to Bâtard-Montrachet, and the philosophy that underpins wines celebrated worldwide for their finesse, structure, and longevity. This conversation is more than an interview—it is an extraordinary opportunity to hear directly from one of Burgundy's most prestigious Domaine, a family whose legacy defines the timeless pursuit of great wine. For more information about our Podcast, visit us on the web: https://readbetweenthewines.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betweenthewinesmedia Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/read-between-the-wines
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E78 - Quails' Gate Winery · Okanagan Valley, Canada
For Episode 78 of Read Between the Wines, we head to the Okanagan Valley to visit Quails' Gate, one of Canada's most iconic wineries. Host Pierre Ferland sits down with Rowan Stewart, who shares the story of his family's four generations of farming and their pioneering role in BC wine. From early Pinot Noir plantings to cutting-edge vineyard technology, Quails' Gate has always been a leader in shaping the region. But the past two years brought disaster. Back-to-back frost events wiped out almost the entire vineyard, erasing decades of work in just a few freezing nights. Instead of waiting for help, the Stewart family acted fast. They created Field and Flight, a bold project sourcing grapes from across the Pacific Northwest to keep their spirit alive. More than survival, it became a story of resilience and creativity. Rowan reflects on the land, the challenges of climate change, and the emotional side of winemaking. This episode is about more than vines and clones—it's about family, perseverance, and the future of Canadian wine. For more information about our Podcast, visit us on the web: https://readbetweenthewines.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betweenthewinesmedia Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/read-between-the-wines
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E77 - Wine GB · Nicola Bates, England
For Episode 77 of Read Between the Wines, we sit down with Nicola Bates, CEO of Wine GB, to explore the exciting momentum behind English and Welsh wines. From climate adaptation to international acclaim, the British wine scene is transforming at remarkable speed—and Nicola is at the forefront of it all. We discuss Wine GB's bold new three-year strategy, the importance of sustainability through the SWGB certification, and how the organisation is championing diversity, education, and tourism across the sector. Nicola shares her personal connection to wine, her favourite grape varieties, and the ambitious initiatives aimed at supporting both new and established producers. Whether you're a winemaker, a wine lover, or simply curious about why Britain is fast becoming one of the world's most dynamic wine regions, this conversation is essential listening. Grab a glass, settle in—and get ready to be inspired by the future of wine, British-style. For more information about our Podcast, visit us on the web: https://readbetweenthewines.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betweenthewinesmedia Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/read-between-the-wines
Read Between the Wines Podcast is not really a podcast, it's a repository of stories from the wine world. It is focused on the narratives behind the winemakers rather than wine scoring.
Founded and hosted by Vino-enthusiast Pierre Ferland, it offers a different and refreshing concept in wine exploration. Each episode offers a unique perspective on vineyard's tales, much like each vintage brings its own profile and personality to a blend. Some conversations will delve into winemaking techniques, while others will explore initiatives to preserve biodiversity and find solutions to combat climate change.
From a consumer perspective, we are intrigued by how wine scoring has dominated the industry, leaving many enthusiasts perplexed by its intricacies yet still relying on a solitary number for their selections. We understand and respect the fact that a generous score can help move a few bottles and we won't hold it against any wineries, but from a vintner and a winemaker perspective, we pose a pivotal question: what legacy do you wish to imprint upon your clientele? A numerical rating, or the compelling tale of your craft? Think about it. What score would you give to the "Mona Lisa" or "The Starry Night" from Van Gogh? About "Composition 8" from Kandinsky or "The Creation of Adam" by Michelangelo. It's very subjective indeed and so is Pinot Noir from Burgundy, Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia and Riesling from Germany.