True Crimes Against Wine

Wine list got you stymied? Unsure what to do when the server brings the bottle to the table? And what do you do with the cork??? Judge Topher is here to allay your anxiety and put a stopper in the awkwardness!

DEFENDANT: Ryan Reynolds EVIDENCE: Aviation Gin SCENE OF THE CRIME: Portland, Oregon -- Our Judges sojourn deep into the foggy, fern-laden forests of Oregon, where they are treated to a private gin tasting with sex symbol and ballet primadonna Ryan Reynolds. While they are there they discuss the super hero's career, his lovely wife, and most importantly, hanky panky.

Judge Rachel is asked to explain "the situation" with Armie Hammer and gives some tasty insights into the more savory aspects of cancel culture.

Join our flawless Judges as they review the transcripts of a year's worth of trials. The highs, the lows, the shockers and the syrah. Our celebrity defendants have provided gossip as juicy as their wines, and our Judges have proven themselves as sober in their rulings as they feel in they are in their hearts. (Fact Checker was not available for verification.) -- Thanks for a great year. And don't...

Looking for wine on a budget but don't want to skimp on quality? Judge Topher has the skinny on how to shop for cheap bottles, as well as his favorite wines for under $10!

DEFENDANT: Diane Keaton   EVIDENCE: The Keaton Red Wine Blend   SCENE OF THE CRIME: North Coast, CA -- Our Judges celebrate America's favorite mom, Ms Diane Keaton. They explore her iconic roles, brilliant fashion, and layered relationships. Rachel reveals a deep seated and unexpected prejudice, but makes up for it with an awkward celebrity sighting.

Your Judges are here to break down the stigma around mocktails, as well as give you some helpful tips for making them at home! Cheers, loves! You don't have to drink to be merry!

DEFENDANT: Train   EVIDENCE: "Calling All Angels" Chardonnay   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Livermore Valley, CA -- Our Judges try to figure out what exactly Train is, and why. They explore ideas for their own band names, fresh beauty products, and Rachel takes a very strong stance about her musical taste.

We have all been in this situation. We are on our way to an important dinner party and we want to bring a nice bottle as a gift. But what are the rules? How do we choose? Topher has some pro tips to help ease the pressure and have you looking like a true connoisseur!

DEFENDANT: Betty White   EVIDENCE: She Isn't Actually On Trial   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Seriously, She Is A Saint -- In this very special episode, our judges cancel their hearings for the day and take to their chambers to pour some martinis and pay loving (and laughing) tribute to the great Betty White. Topher channels his inner happy homemaker with tips for alternative uses for wine, and Rachel expl...

What is a leggy wine? And can these "legs" give you any clues about what you are drinking? Topher has the inside scoop!

DEFENDANT: Reba McEntire    EVIDENCE: Arrington Vineyards "Red Fox Red" 2019   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Tennessee, USA -- Our judges gear up and trek deep into the beautiful mountains and rolling hills of Tennessee, where they get fancy in order to investigate another case of aiding and abetting. Stay tuned to the end for a shocking revelation which introduces a second celebrity suspect.

Judge Topher answers the classic New Year's Party question: How do I pair wine with my cheese plate??? Short answer: listen to this minisode! Happy New Year!

DEFENDANT: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter   EVIDENCE: Malolactic-fermented Chardonnay   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Hogsmeade and Various Parts of California -- Our judges leap aboard the Hogwarts Express for an exciting Christmas Special! Butterbeer is on the menu as Rachel and Topher attempt to find a wine that most resembles the magical brew, then sort the sampled potions into their Houses. Join u...

What is the best glass to drink champagne out of? What do you do if you forgot to chill your bubbly? Topher addresses these questions and shares his tips and tricks for getting the most out of your bottle!

DEFENDANT: Roberto Cavalli   EVIDENCE: Cavalli Tenuta Deli Dei Toscana   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Tuscany, Italy  -- Fashion! Intrigue! Fierce! Scandal! All of these can be used to describe our judges, sure.... but when a global fashion empire enters the wine world, the salacious stakes are raised. After all, in the world of fashionable wine, one day you are in, the next you are hung over.

Wood, rubber, screw caps, stelvins, glass... what is the deal with corks and closures? Topher is here to break it down for you!

DEFENDANT: Sam Neill   EVIDENCE: Two Paddocks "Picnic" Pinot Noir 2019   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Central Otago, NZ -- Our judges sojourn to the South Island of New Zealand where they chase dinosaurs, go hunting wabbits, and Topher reveals an intimate personal connection to Laura Dern. Listen to the end for a SHOCKING revelation from Fact Checker that renders the judges shooketh.

What are sulfites? Why are they in wine? And what effect to they have on you? Topher explains the answers to these and more!

DEFENDANT: Kylie Jenner   EVIDENCE: Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio 2020   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Alto Adige, Italy -- Judges Rachel and Topher travel between Italy and LA as they investigate a new case with shocking allegations of "Aiding and Abetting." Will this episode's social media diva be acquitted of the charges? Or will she be found "Guilty By Association?"

Topher answers a listener question about why wines are different colors, and explains to Rachel the various reasons behind pigmentation and what colors can tell you about what you are drinking.

DEFENDANT: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson   EVIDENCE: Teremano Blanco Small Batch Tequila   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Jalisco Highlands, Mexico -- In this VERY SPECIAL LIQUOR EPISODE, our Judges jet to the sun-drenched agave hills of Mexico, where they learn about how a time-honored spirit is crafted, Canadian wrestling dynasties, and the subtle art of sperglary. -- ***WARNING: The audio depicts aggressive c...

Topher helps guide Rachel through the differences and similarities between organic and biodynamic wines, but Rachel remains skeptical.

DEFENDANT: Madonna   EVIDENCE: Ciccone Vineyard American Gewurtztraminer, 2019   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan, USA -- Our judges road trip to a tiny, remote winery in the Midwest, where they discuss new product designs, who is getting Judge Rachel in the divorce, and the combat prowess of one of the biggest icons of our generation.

Rachel revisits a question about vegan wine and Topher explains the ins and outs, from production to packaging. -- This episode is dedicated to the memory of April.