In this episode of The Cocktail Guru Show, Jeffrey Pogash and Jonathan Pogash, had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of wine with a very special guest, Manuel Lozada, CEO of Viña Almaviva. They began by reminiscing about Jeffrey's early career in the wine industry, including his transformative experience in Paris where he met Jonathan's mother and developed a lifelong passion for wine.

Manuel Lozada shared his fascinating journey in the wine industry, starting from his early exposure to wine at the age of five, thanks to his grandfather. He recounted his diverse experiences across the globe, from Portugal to Argentina, and eventually to Chile, where he now oversees the production of some of the world's finest wines at Almaviva.

The three discussed the unique qualities of Almaviva wines, the blend of French savoir-faire with Chilean terroir, and the meticulous process involved in creating these exceptional wines. Manuel also highlighted the importance of precision and humility in wine making, emphasizing that each vintage has its own character shaped by subtle climatic variations.

The conversation was deeply personal and filled with mutual respect and admiration. Manuel's passion for wine making was evident as he described the creative process and the joy of sharing wine with others. We also touched on the differences between the wine and spirits industries, noting the unique life and evolution of wine in the bottle.

Overall, this episode was a heartfelt exploration of the art and passion behind wine making, enriched by the long-standing friendship between my father and Manuel. We hope our listeners enjoyed this intimate look into the world of wine and the stories behind some of its most dedicated artisans.

On this episode of THE COCKTAIL GURU SHOW, hosts Jonathan & Jeffrey Pogash talk hospitality and acclaimed bartender, author, host, and educator Alba Huerta's singular commitment to excellence in it. Watch, listen, and learn how the Mexican-born and Texas-raised entrepreneur has racked up a raft of honors for both herself and Julep, the James Beard Award-winning bar that's played a leading role in transforming Houston's cocktail culture from dive dominated to craft focused.

THE COCKTAIL GURU PODCAST is produced by 1st Reel Entertainment and distributed by EatsDrinksTV, a service of the Center for Culinary Culture—Home of The Cocktail Collection, and is available wherever fine podcasts can be heard. The Center for Culinary Culture—Telling the Story of Food & Drink…One Taste at a Time.

On this episode of THE COCKTAIL GURU SHOW, the premiere installment of Season 4, hosts Jonathan & Jeffrey Pogash deep-dive the whiskey world with serial entrepreneur Raj Alva and veteran whiskey maker Ari Sussman, who, together with country music superstar Eric Church, founded JYPSI Whiskey. Watch, listen, and learn how this team of unlikely partners launched a new whiskey brand, formulated an innovative whiskey-making process—including some unique aging techniques—and mastered the art and science of blending whiskeys from across the globe. Plust, enjoy a taste of the fascinating history of punch—it hasn't always been a syrupy concoction served as children's birthday parties—in Papa Pogash's "Cocktail Commentary."

THE COCKTAIL GURU SHOW is produced by 1st Reel Entertainment and distributed by EatsDrinksTV, a service of the Center for Culinary Culture—Home of The Cocktail Collection, and is available wherever you enjoy your favorite shows.