Today on Unwined with Mandi, we’re starting in Spain with Bodegas Martínez Lacuesta, one of Rioja’s historic benchmarks. I’ll be joined by Javier Bañales, who will walk us through what defines classic fine Rioja wines, why time and freshness matter so much, and why these wines remain timeless and deeply pleasurable to drink.

Then, we head to Italy with Masi Agricola. Raffaele Boscaini will join me to talk about a brand-new Prosecco that’s just landed at the SAQ — what makes it different, why the branding changed, and why this is the kind of bottle you’ll want to have chilled and ready.

And finally — something very exciting for Montreal food lovers. A brand-new Italian restaurant has just opened its doors, and today we have them in studio. Celebrated Montreal chef Steve Marcone joins me alongside his partner Viral Patel to introduce La Figata — a new address for Italian cuisine that’s already generating serious buzz.

We hear this word sustainability all the time - but what does it really mean when it comes to wine?

Today we’ll ask that question to Meghan Littlejohn program manager from Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. We will also have Alessio Planeta from Planeta Wines in Sicily. Alessio will talk about their SOStain program me. Also we will chat with William Wilkinson- chief winemaker from Le Bonheur to talk about alternative packaging.

For information about Mandi's Portugal tour, visit https://deltatur.pt/en/unwined2026/

If you’ve ever been curious about Japan — the culture, the food, the drinks, or even what it actually takes to get there — today’s show is for you.

We’re diving into all things Japan, from what’s in your glass, to what’s on your plate, to how to confidently plan a trip to one of the most fascinating countries in the world.

We’ll be talking sake recommendations and how to enjoy them with Marie‑Hélène Boisvert, a sake educator, expert, and sommelier who helps make sake approachable and food-friendly.
We’ll also be joined by Michael Tremblay, also known as Mr. Sake — a sake master, author, and educator who has dedicated his career to helping people truly understand what sake is and why it deserves a place at the table.

Beyond the glass, Kuniko Fujita will join us to explore Japanese food culture and the different styles of Japanese restaurants — going well beyond sushi and ramen — and what these dining traditions can teach us about how Japan eats.

And finally, if Japan has always felt like a dream destination but one you weren’t quite sure how to plan, Priscilla Portsmouth will be here to ease those worries, sharing practical travel tips and everything you need to know before booking that flight.

From sake to food to travel, today’s show is all about making Japan feel less intimidating, more accessible, and incredibly inspiring.

You can find more travel information at https://www.japan.travel/en/ca/