Show notes
We kick off 2026 with our ninth episode of Uncorked, a Cult Wines podcast. Tom Gearing, Co-founder and CEO of Cult Wines, sits down with Jonathan Stevenson, EVP of Cult Wines North America, and special guest Libby Brodie, wine writer, City A.M.’s Wine Without Snobbery columnist, presenter and judge, to explore where fine wine culture is heading and why the line between drinking, collecting and investing is thinner than many think.Libby shares how storytelling and community have powered her growth on social media and in print, and why she champions approachable, informed wine conversation for everyone.📌 What’s covered in Episode 9:Meet Libby BrodieTom and Jonathan introduce Libby’s path from theatre and film to wine writing and presenting. Her focus is clear, make wine useful and enjoyable for people who already love it but want more from the glass. She talks about learning the ropes, writing for City A.M, and why a good story can carry a tasting note further.Follow Libby: Instagram: @libbybrodie • Website: www.bacchusandbrodie.comDry, damp, or… moist JanuaryThe year opens with a frank look at January habits. The table trades views on Dry, Damp, and the newly coined “Moist January,” using it to talk about balance, reset routines, and how people actually drink once the holidays are over.What traded and whyA look back at last year’s secondary-market standouts sets the scene. Dom Pérignon features. La Rioja Alta Gran Reserva 904 2011 stands as a headline example for value, volume and drink-readiness. Vega Sicilia is held up as a perennial crowd-pleaser that performs with beginners and experts alike.Optionality for collectorsTom outlines a simple idea for building a cellar at sensible price points, with optionality. Buy bottles you want to drink, that you can resell if plans change, and that carry credible critic quality. Rioja Alta is used to show how maturity, ageing potential, and liquidity can come together at a comfortable entry price.From cellar to tableThe team trace the life of a bottle from release to restaurant list. Proper storage and smart distribution keep wines in peak condition and give diners access to back vintages, while supporting producers with a healthy after-market.Champagne and the sparkle effectLibby talks about why sparkling keeps drawing people in. The visual pop, the energy at the table, and the appeal of styles that fit more occasions. Interest in Champagne remains strong, with other sparkling regions gaining from the same momentum.Wine without snobberyAccess and tone matter. Libby shares recent experiences that show where bias still appears and why visibility and clear language help address it. Jancis Robinson’s example serves as a high bar for rigour and openness, alongside the push for greater diversity in wine.Price, value and everyday choicesPints and coffees get a playful comparison with bottles that carry a meal. The point is not to spend more, it is to spend wiser, with a little thought for context, occasion and what you actually want to drink.If you enjoy honest views, real data and market chat that stays practical, this is a good way to start the year. Subscribe, send in your questions for the next episode.👉 Subscribe for more Uncorked episodes and fine wine insights every month.