#22 Merlot vs. Syrah: A Sensory Showdown

Austrian Wine in a Nutshell

Join The KrisXperience Show for a 45-minute swirl through Austria’s vineyards — from the steep terraces of Wachau to the iron-rich slopes of Eisenberg, and from the pink-tinged Schilcher to the legendary Heiligenstein. It’s Austria’s wine story condensed: history, grapes, soils, and all DAC regions brought to life in one engaging, easy-to-follow episode. Smart, structured, but never stiff—it’s wine education with energy and flavour. Pour yourself a glass, hit play, and taste why Austrian wine is fascinating.

#25 Discover Baijiu: Production, Styles & Culture

In this episode, I’m joined by Derek Sandhaus, one of the leading Western voices on baijiu, China’s national spirit and the world’s most consumed spirit. We dive into pronunciation, production, styles, cultural rituals, food pairings, and history. This conversation was actually recorded some time ago, but I’m thrilled to finally share it now. Baijiu is a world ofaromas/flavours, traditions, and stories, and Derek is the perfect guide to help us explore it. He is the author of several books on baijiu as well as the co-founder of Ming River Sichuan Baijiu.

#24 Natural wine

Check out the latest episode on a subject that is dear to my heart: Natural wine. I'll also be talking briefly about my new book. Info is available through my website and also as an ebook through various third parties [https://kristiankielmayer.com/natural-wines-of-hungary/]. But also on what is natural wine How to approach it Demystify it somewhat and approach it with an open mind...but foremost, have fun. Enjoy this episode!

#23 Sherry Wine: Then, Now, Next

Title: Sherry Wine: Then, Now, Next Host: Kristian Kielmayer | The KrisXperience Show Description: In this deep-dive episode, Kristian Kielmayer—certified Sherry Educator and wine communicator—takes you on a journey through the fascinating world of Sherry wines. From its 3,000-year-old legacy and its golden age in global trade, to its evolution through scientific breakthroughs and legal reforms, this podcast uncovers how Sherry remains one of the world’s most storied and versatile wines. Discover how styles like Fino, Amontillado, and Co. are made, learn about the importance of the Solera system, vineyard designations like pagos, and exciting regulatory updates that are redefining the region. We also explore how Sherry is finding new life through food, cocktails, education, and travel—and why it's time for a new generation to rediscover Jerez. 🎙️ Topics include: * Sherry wine styles and classification * Ancient and modern history of Jerez * British ties and pirate tales * Recent legal and production changes * Future potential: unfortified wines, terroir-driven bottlings, and new grape varieties * How sommeliers, bartenders, and educators can bring Sherry to the spotlight 📍 Whether you’re a professional or a passionate wine lover, this episode will give you a fresh, engaging perspective on one of the world’s most misunderstood wines.

#22 Merlot vs. Syrah: A Sensory Showdown

Merlot vs. Syrah: two iconic varieties, worlds apart—or are they? In this episode, we dive into the sensory secrets of these wines, exploring their similarities, differences, and what makes each so unique. Plus, I take it to the next level with a blind tasting to put theory into practice. Whether you're a wine geek or just curious, this episode will be fun and help you understand those two varieties. Join me on this journey...