Dec 25, 2024
Today, I had the privilege of hosting Linda Bramble, a
celebrated wine expert and educator with a story as rich as the
finest vintage.
From her Italian roots to her career as a sommelier and
international wine judge, Linda shares the secrets of wine tasting,
the power of memory, and the fascinating subjectivity of judging
wines.
Stay tuned until the end for a fun twist as Judith Lewis and I
reveal today’s quirky wine term. So, pour yourself a glass, sit
back, and join us on this flavourful journey. Cheers!
In this episode you will be able to:
- Cultural Perspectives: Explore the differences
in wine consumption and appreciation between European and North
American cultures.
- Wine Education: Learn how Linda transitioned
from a leadership role to becoming a sommelier and wine judge,
emphasizing the importance of formal education in wine
tasting.
- Tasting Techniques: Gain insights into
effective wine-tasting practices, including the significance of
memory and sensory associations in developing tasting skills.
- Subjectivity in Judging: Understand the
subjective nature of wine judging through Linda's experiences and
anecdotes from various judging panels around the world.
- Wine and Food Pairing: Get inspired by Linda's
favourite dish, frutti de mare, and the perfect wine pairing with
Niagara's exceptional Chardonnays.
Linda Bramble is a distinguished wine expert and educator
whose passion for wine is deeply rooted in her Italian heritage.
Growing up in a family where wine was an integral part of every
meal, Linda's adventure into the world of wine began at her family
table, where she learned to appreciate the culture, connection, and
artistry behind a good pour.
With a remarkable career spanning decades, Linda is a
professor at Athabasca University and been associated with Brock
University in Niagara, where she has shared her extensive knowledge
of wine with students and enthusiasts. Her expertise has led her to
become a respected sommelier and an international wine judge, where
she has tasted and evaluated wines from regions including
California, Chile, Italy, and Ontario.
Linda is not only passionate about wine tasting but also about
the power of tasting memory. She believes that wine tasting is a
creative endeavour that engages all the senses and is influenced by
personal experiences and associations. Her innovative approach to
wine education emphasizes the importance of memory and
differentiation, encouraging others to explore and enjoy wine in
new ways.
In addition to her teaching and judging, Linda is the author
of "Niagara's Wine Visionaries," a labour of love that chronicles
the history and evolution of the Niagara wine industry through the
stories of its key players. Her dedication to preserving the rich
history of wine in her region showcases her commitment to
storytelling and education.
Whether she is sharing her insights on wine tasting or
discussing the nuances of wine judging, Linda Bramble continues to
inspire wine lovers and novices alike to appreciate the
complexities and joys of wine.
Contact Linda Bramble here: