WDC Talk Show

Malta Tasting Team, THE WINE KNIGHTS | WDC e21

They trained. They travelled. They tasted against the world. In this feature-length Wine Dine Combine episode, we follow Malta’s first-ever national wine tasting team, The Wine Knights, as they prepare for the World Blind Tasting Championship 2025 which will be held in Jura, France. Team leader Marco Trucco, Master of Wine candidate William Rizzo, Pierre Finger, Andrea Fornuto, recount how they balanced friendship with fierce concentration guided by coach Aaron Rizzo, DipWSET. Now in run with wine specialist Rebecca Degaetano, winemaker Matthew Delicata and avid wine enthusiast Manuel Degiorgio to choose a final team who will be representing Malta on the world stage for the second time. Filmed at Kontrada, William’s own wine shop, with tasting wines generously sponsored by Farsons Direct, the episode reveals the discipline, teamwork, and passion behind blind tasting and why placing 29th out of 39 countries in their first year was just the beginning.

Inside Malta’s International Wine Festival | WDC e20

Join us at the heart of Malta’s wine scene as Wine Dine Combine visits the International Wine Festival in Valletta! In this special episode, we speak with some of the island’s most passionate wine importers, discover what’s trending in local cellars, and taste our way through wines from Malta and around the world. From bold reds to refreshing whites and sparkling surprises, it’s a celebration of culture, community, and, of course, wine. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or curious sipper, this one’s for you. Watch now and meet the people shaping Malta’s wine future—one pour at a time.

Berenice Axisa | WDC e18

From Maltese Roots to McLaren Vale 🍇 Berenice Axisa joins us on Wine Dine Combine to share her journey from the islands of Malta to the rolling vineyards of McLaren Vale. We talk wine, life, unexpected pairings Maltese food and Australian wine, and the atmosphere in wine industry down under. Pour yourself a glass and tune in – this one’s got flavour.

Denise Marrone, MARRONE | WDC e17

What makes Barolo one of the most prestigious wines in the world? Join us as we sit down with Denise Marrone, one of three sisters who form the passionate force behind Agricola Gian Piero Marrone, a historic winery in the heart of Piemonte’s Barolo region. From generations of family winemaking to the balance between tradition and innovation, Denise shares the story behind their world-class wines and unique “Cantina con Cucina” experience, where wine meets exceptional cuisine.

Johann Henschke, HENSCHKE | WDC e15

From six generations of winemaking heritage to some of the most expressive wines in the world, 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧 𝐇𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐤𝐞 takes us on a journey through the history, terroir, and craftsmanship behind 𝐇𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐤𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬. Join us as we explore the ancient soils, high-altitude vineyards, and legendary old vines of the Barossa and Eden Valley, revealing the secrets behind their world-class Shiraz and Riesling. A story of resilience, tradition, and the pursuit of excellence—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Michelle Muscat, LA VELA Restaurant | WDC e14

Step into a peaceful day at 𝐋𝐚 𝐕𝐞𝐥𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 with our special guest, 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐭, nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Msida yacht marina. This episode of Wine Dine Combine will take you on a flavourful journey through Italy with tasty Sicilian food and exquisite Italian wines, as we explore the dynamic hospitality industry with the La Vela restaurant owner Michelle, a true connoisseur and leader.

Dominic Calleja, DICAL HOUSE | WDC e12

Get ready to uncover the secrets of Dical House, where every product is a gateway to the world’s finest culinary experiences. Join us while we visit Dominic Calleja and explore his exceptional collection of handpicked flavours and aromas, where every product is a gateway to the world’s finest culinary experiences. As a special surprise we will have a cooking session with Christina Mousu. From rare truffles sourced from Italy’s Piedmont region to exquisite wines that span the globe, each item promises a story of tradition and excellence. Welcome to a special episode of Wine Dine Combine, right here in the heart of Mosta.

Dimitris Nakos, MYKONOS BY YIAMAS | WDC e11

Mykonos by Yiamas. Dive into authentic Greek cuisine and wines right on Bormla (also known as Cospicua) vibrant Cottonera seafront. Join us as Dimitris, the passionate restaurant owner and the heart behind Mykonos by Yiamas, guides us through a culinary odyssey from Greece to Malta. Discover the traditional flavours that make Greek dining a beloved experience, paired with hand-selected Greek wines that echo the rich history of the Mediterranean. Tune in for an unforgettable exploration of Greece’s legendary gastronomy in the heart of Malta.

Andrew Azzopardi, VINTAGE’82 | WDC e9

In this episode, we chat with 𝐀𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐳𝐳𝐨𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢, owner of 𝐕𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞’𝟖𝟐, as we dive into the world of fine wines. Andrew shares his his journey from winemaking in his garage as a kid, to supplying top wines for superyachts worldwide. Join us as we explore the intricacies of fine wine, from tasting a premium Pouilly Fumé and a Chablis to discussing the unique qualities of Old and New World wines, tips on wine and food pairing, and insights into the evolving wine market. Discover how wine and food create the perfect pair and learn the art of choosing and appreciating quality wines.

Dimitar Gitsov, GEPPETTO with Josèf Bonello | WDC e8

Welcome to the new episode of Wine Dine Combine where we pair delicious food from Geppetto restaurant with amazing wines in the great company of Maltese wines ambassador Josef Bonello and one of the Geppetto owners, Dimitar Gitsov.
Hear the fascinating wine stories as we taste Gozitan flavours paired with amazing wines. Find out more about the role olive trees play in vineyards, and whether the Maltese’s favourite Primitivo can grow on our island. Much more to come in this episode. Tune in!

Monique Zammit, SCIACCA GRILL | WDC e6

Appreciating local wines has become a trend at Sciacca Grill restaurants. Not only by the tourists, but also by the locals. That’s only one of the reasons why those wines are always at the top of the wine list at Sciacca, the wine list that can never be finished, because knowledge about wine is infinite according to Monique Zammit who goes through the whole process from picking grapes to tasting wine in order to choose the best wines to pair with food menu of Sciacca. Find out more in this episode of Wine Dine Combine.

Mark Cassar, MARCASAR WINERY | WDC e5

Meet the winemaker without a sense of smell from Malta who makes CBD infused wine, promotes wine tastings with no hurry and only wants to bring happiness to the world. Meet Mark Cassar who will show you around his winery named MarCassar in this episode of Wine Dine Combine.

Josèf Bonello | WDC e3

Learn about the history of wine in Malta and Gozo. Find out for how long have Maltese wines been competing with some of the most famous wines in the world. Remember that Mediterranean climate is the best for vineyards and never forget that when you drink Maltese wine – you drink history. In this episode of Wine Dine Combine we are chatting with Maltese Wine Ambassador Josef Bonello.

Marie Choquet, TA’ BETTA WINE ESTATES | WDC e2

What is the connection between Ta Betta and Maltese Knights? What does it look like when you prepare for a decade? How to become a member of Ta Betta Club? The answers to these questions are right here, in our new episode of Wine Dine Combine.