Every once in a while, a conversation surprises you.
This episode of FineWineToMe – the wine business podcast did exactly that.
Recorded on Cabernet Franc Day, my discussion with Kathleen Smith, DipWSET — wine judge, writer, communicator, and brand strategist — led us to one big, unexpected conclusion:
“If I remember your product (wine), you win.”
It’s a simple idea. But it’s one that cuts straight to the heart of modern wine marketing.
Why Cabernet Franc… and why now?
I’ll be honest: I’m often hesitant to dedicate a whole episode to a single grape variety.
Wine professionals already know the classic talking points. Cabernet Franc’s history, aromatics, structure, adaptability — these things are well documented.
But Kathleen and I both love Cab Franc, so we took the leap.
And, as always, the value wasn’t just in the grape itself — it was in the conversation.
Every episode teaches me something unplanned, something that only emerges through genuine dialogue. That’s the real magic of podcasting.
The Question That Changed the Episode
Somewhere in the middle of the recording, Kathleen turned the tables and asked me:
“Do you have a favourite Cabernet Franc?”
I paused. Because honestly? There are so many.
But then the answer hit instantly:
Garage Wine Co. — Derek J. Mossman Knapp & Pilar Miranda's small, character-driven project from Chile.
And that’s when the realisation crystallised:
✔ I remembered the wine not just for the flavour
✔ but for the packaging
✔ and the storytelling behind it
The label stood out.
The story stuck.
The memory lasted.
That’s the business lesson.
In a crowded market, the wines (and products) that stay in our memory are the ones that win.
What We Covered in the Episode
This conversation with Kathleen was rich in insights — spanning continents, climates, and business realities.
1️⃣ Kathleen’s Journey: From Montreal to an International Wine Career
Her path from Canada to the East Coast of the U.S. is a reminder of how global, dynamic, and creative the wine world can be.
2️⃣ Franc & Franc Conference, Villány
Hungary is making a serious bid for Cabernet Franc leadership, and the innovation, craftsmanship, and regional pride Kathleen saw there are worth watching.
3️⃣ East Coast USA — Finger Lakes & Long Island
These regions are stepping into the spotlight with fresh, elegant, cool-climate wines. A rising force in North American wine identity.
4️⃣ Canadian Wine — Niagara’s Cool-Climate Awesomeness
Canada continues to prove it can deliver exceptional Cab Franc across multiple styles — from structured reds to sparkling Blanc de Franc.
5️⃣ Tariffs & Turbulence in the U.S. Market
Regulation and pricing pressures shape both consumer behaviour and producer opportunity. We dig into how the current landscape impacts international and domestic brands alike.
Watch the Full Episode
If you’re into Cabernet Franc, cool-climate wine, wine business strategy, or simply enjoy hearing passionate professionals talk honestly about the industry…
🎥 Watch Episode 23 on YouTube
🎧 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨? 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐧 Podbean
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Cheers! 🥂