In this episode of Taste Like Somewhere, Kristie sits down with Bernardo Conticelli — Florence-born wine expert, educator, Italy’s official Champagne Ambassador, and a partner with Zingerman’s Food Tours — for a rich journey through the landscapes and cultures that shape extraordinary taste.

Bernardo shares the winding path that led him from political science to Parisian wine studies, to founding Vinifocus in Florence and Bere Bene SAS in Paris, promoting high-end artisan wines across Europe. Together, we talk about the power of place in shaping flavor, the role of education in understanding wine, and why Champagne holds such cultural significance.

We also explore the immersive food and wine travel programs he co-leads with Zingerman’s Food Tours — in Tuscany, Piedmont, Lyon & Jura, Paris, and Champagne — where guests experience not just wine, but the people, craft, and traditions behind it.

And of course, Bernardo opens up about his personal passion projects: making his own wine and producing exceptional olive oil at his farm Sottofiesole outside Florence.

If you believe great taste starts with great stories, this episode pours out inspiration.