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/

Today is our final show of 2025, and we’re sending this year off in style — with bubbles, brilliance, and a little Highland elegance. If there was ever a time to open something unforgettable, it’s New Year’s Eve, and no champagne captures that feeling quite like Krug. A house built on individuality, precision, and the art of patience.

And because celebrations don’t end with bubbles, we’re also diving into the world of whisky — but not just any whisky. We’re talking about one defined by lightness, texture, and quiet radiance: Glenmorangie. With us is Bryan Simpson, National Brand Ambassador, to guide us through what makes Glenmorangie so distinct!

Today’s show is a full immersion into one of Italy’s most exciting sparkling wine regions: Alta Langa, the high-elevation jewel of Piedmont. We’re taking you to the hills where long traditions, cool mountain breezes, and meticulous craftsmanship come together to create some of Italy’s most refined metodo classico wines.

We’ll begin with Paolo Rossino, President of the Alta Langa Consorzio, who will guide us through what makes this region so extraordinary — from its strict production rules to its high-altitude vineyards and the elegance that defines every bottle.

Then we’ll head to Agricola Brandini with Giovanna Bagnasco - one of the rising stars of the region. She’ll share how sustainability, terroir, and a deep respect for tradition shape their beautiful Alta Langa wines.

Finally, we shift from vineyards to forests with Stefano Mosca, Director of the International Alba White Truffle Fair — and one of Alba’s most passionate ambassadors. He’ll take us inside the mysterious world of truffle hunting: how truffles are formed, why they are so rare, and what makes the Alba white truffle the most coveted in the world. And of course, he’ll tell us why Alta Langa and white truffles are a match made in Piedmont heaven!

Today, travel around the world in a single show. Mandi will start with her Wines of the Week, featuring a little sparkle from Champagne and beautifully fresh wines from Chile. Then we’re bringing the spotlight back home to one of Montreal’s great restaurant institutions — Milos — to explore its story, its philosophy, and what makes it such a landmark for Greek cuisine. And finally, we’ll wrap up by diving into the world of Greek grapes, wines, and the art of pairing them with food. A full global tour… without ever leaving your seat.