Discover the transformation of English wine from a laughingstock to a globally respected industry with our special guest, Henry Jeffreys. Henry is a celebrated drinks journalist and author. He has written for the Guardian, the Spectator, and most recently been editor at the Master of Malt blog. He is also the author of several books, including Empire of Booze, and Vines in a Cold Climate.

In this episode, through his lens, you'll meet the quirky personalities who have revolutionized English wine and explore the cultural significance of British and European identity in the wine trade.

We explore how the English wine landscape is evolving with unexpected players such as Californian winemakers joining the scene. Henry sheds light on how international vineyards, such as the Jackson family's initiatives in Essex, are reshaping the industry with innovative marketing strategies and expanding reach. We also delve into the consolidation trends among wineries and the rise of boutique wineries, making an intriguing comparison to the craft beer industry. We also discuss how the pivotal shift from Germanic grapes to Pinot Noir and sparkling wine marks a significant milestone, positioning English wine for future success.

Henry brings us into the world of sparkling wine production, discussing the strategic moves by major champagne houses to expand into England. The impact of climate change, branding challenges, and consumer perceptions all come under scrutiny. We also discuss the broader cultural shifts affecting drinking habits in the UK, especially among the younger generation. Wrapping up, we get a sneak peek into Henry's upcoming book on wine snobbery, promising a captivating exploration of wine status anxiety through the ages.

Don't miss this episode filled with rich stories, expert insights, and an optimistic view of the future of English wine.

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Dr. Michael J. Bonner takes us on a fascinating journey from his early studies in classical and oriental languages to becoming a leading expert in Iranian history and a political advisor. We uncover the transition from academia to politics, driven by his early political engagement. Bonner's new book, "In Defence of Civilisation," born out of the COVID lockdowns, offers a critical reflection of what makes civilization, what we stand to lose from a collapse, and the path forward to renewal.

We also explore the unintentional rise of monasteries as educational powerhouses during the early Middle Ages. Initially serving basic administrative and religious needs, these institutions evolved into cultural havens due to the literate class of monks. Michael highlights the influence of Gregory the Great's missionaries in Britain and how civilizations often turn to their past for inspiration in times of decline, drawing a parallel to the current state of our world and questioning what has gone wrong, whilst reflecting on the disillusionment with the 1990s' promises of liberal democracy and social and technical harmony.

Finally, we critique modern town planning and the shift from traditional values to progressive ideologies, examining the resultant social isolation and disappointment with technological advancements. Emphasizing the need for stability, continuity, and shared culture, we reflect on the erosion of communal spaces and the balance between career success and inner fulfillment. The episode concludes with a look at global cultural trends and how Western societies might reclaim their heritage in the face of these challenges.

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In this episode, we’ll be talking to Porkchop Express, who is known on Twitter for her love of killer boots, sardonic wit, and passion for Dostoevsky. Porkchop is going to be schooling us on how Dostoevsky's works can change your life. From the existential crises depicted in "Notes from Underground" to the moral conflicts of "Crime and Punishment" and the spiritual redemption found in "The Brothers Karamazov,"

Fat Tony's is more than a podcast - it's a community. Join our community at FatTonys.net.