True Crimes Against Wine

Join us for a candid, no-filter breakdown of the recent Sydney Sweeney ad for a sports betting app — the one everyone's talking about. We dig into the ad’s over-the-top sexualization (yes, it looks like porn), the predatory nature of online sports gambling, and the hypocrisy of moral posturing from conservative corners. We also talk about how celebrities profit from male-gaze-focused branding, why this kind of content is alarming when it airs during family TV viewing, and the broader advertising culture that allows it to exist. It’s part critique, part bafflement, and a whole lot of "did that just happen?" Tune in as we vent, joke, and try to make sense of this rancid dumpster fire together.

DEFENDANT: M. Night Shyamalan's The Sixth Sense EVIDENCE: Michael David Winery 6th Sense Syrah SCENE OF THE CRIME: Lodi, CA --   Hey friend — pour yourself a glass and settle in. This episode of True Crimes Against Wine pairs a bold California Syrah called Sixth Sense with M. Night Shyamalan's classic twist-filled film, The Sixth Sense. We chat about the Michael David Joint Winery (the creative minds behind Freakshow), their Lodi sustainability rules, the wine’s ripe-plum, chocolate-cherry flavors, and that sneaky 15.5% alcohol that keeps things interesting. Then we dive into movie talk: wigs, red color cues, Toni Collette’s heartbreaking performance, Haley Joel Osment’s unforgettable presence, and how the film still holds up as more drama than horror. We trade ghost stories, dream up spooky-season outfits, debate whether ghosts are real or just our imaginations, and spill some ridiculous ideas — like a Sixth Sense musical and a Jane Austen crossover. Spoilers abound, vibes are cozy (even if it’s 96 degrees outside), and we get hilariously sidetracked by Halloween decor, husband behavior, and what kind of ghost we’d want to be. Come for the wine notes, stay for the grief, humor, and the endearing feel-good chills. Cheers!

Hey — if you love wine (or just enjoy weather drama), this episode dives into how this summer's brutal heatwave upended vineyards around the globe. Short version: grapes ripened insanely fast. In places like Napa and Sonoma harvests wrapped in late August instead of October — some vines barely had a normal growing season because bud break happened late and then, boom, two months to harvest. That usually means riper fruit, higher sugars and alcohol, and a punchier, more "fruit bomb" style instead of subtle, old‑world finesse. Different regions will feel it differently: cooler spots like Willamette Valley, Burgundy or the Loire could be facing unfamiliar challenges, while winemakers in hotter regions (hello, parts of Australia) might have tips worth sharing. And don’t forget the southern hemisphere — their spring is just starting, so timing shifts there could ripple through next year’s bottles. The big worries: flavor shifts we might not fully understand for years; the staggering cost for small wineries if they have to relocate or replant; and an industry pushed toward quicker-turnover grapes, irrigation and climate-control tech, or even new stylistic directions. There’s a silver lining — this could spark more global collaboration and creative adaptation across the wine world — but it’s also anxiety‑inducing for anyone who cares about the craft. If you work at a vineyard and want to share what you’re seeing, send us the inside scoop at truecrimesagainstwine@gmail.com or find us on Instagram. We’ll send swag. Cheers.

DEFENDANT: Alexander Dumas EVIDENCE: Medley Rosé SCENE OF THE CRIME: Languedoc, France -- Hey — we’re starting Season 6 with boxed rosé, bad accents, and a whole lot of literary chaos. Join Judge Topher (beverage boss) and Judge Rachel (pop-culture prosecutor) as they unbox Medley’s Languedoc rosé, gush over the pool-friendly packaging, debate whether boxed wine counts as classy, and taste notes of apple, pear, and a cheeky finish of strawberry. Spoiler: it’s an easy, drinkable crowd-pleaser and perfect for pool days and boat trips.   Then we stumble through The Count of Monte Cristo — from Edmond Dantès’s naive beginnings and prison metamorphosis to a pirate-fueled treasure haul and one very dramatic revenge tour. There are detours into Napoleon-era politics, serialized 19th-century publishing, Henry Cavill’s youthful cameo, and too many accent attempts to count. Expect goofy banter, surprising historical tidbits (Dumas’ family history is wild), and a lot of laughs — plus a trivia quiz that goes off the rails in the best way.   Whether you love wine talk, classic revenge tales, or just want a podcast that feels like two friends riffing over a bottle, this episode’s your vibe. Pop a cork (or pull a bag tab), get comfy, and come for the rosé, stay for the drama.

Hey friend — this episode is a wild, messy ride through gossip, revenge, and the limits of grieving. We dig into a story about a daughter who publicly outed her best friend for alleged cheating, only to learn she was wrong and ended up destroying her friend’s life — and possibly contributing to her early death. The moms weigh in, judgments fly, and the question becomes: does someone who caused that much pain still have the right to mourn? Think of this like a late-night chat with your nosy pals: we unpack motives (jealousy vs. trauma), community judgment, and whether warning the grieving family is the right move. Expect equal parts hilarity, righteous anger, and uncomfortable honesty as we decide who’s in the wrong and whether an apology—or an escort out of the funeral—would even matter. Grab your wine and brace yourself for some deliciously petty takes, heartfelt calls for accountability, and the kind of gossip that makes you squirm and shout at the same time. We’d honestly love to hear from Trina Tinsley if she’s listening… but maybe not at the funeral.

DEFENDANT: The Odyssey EVIDENCE: "Odyssey" Miner Family Winery Red Blend 2021 SCENE OF THE CRIME: Napa, CA -- Hey friend — welcome to our Season 6 kickoff of True Crimes Against Wine! We popped a slightly fancier Napa GSM, uncorked some ancient Greek drama, and laughed (and cried a little) our way through Polyphemus, Calypso, and the many questionable choices of Odysseus. We took this bottle on a little detective walk-through — sniffing eucalyptus, tasting red plums, and decoding why the wine felt lighter than expected. It’s a celebration-splurge kind of pour: balanced, food-friendly, and surprisingly low-ABV for a Napa blend. We also dove into Christopher Nolan’s new Odyssey film — casting surprises, scene highlights (hello sirens and practical effects), and the ways the movie leans into war trauma more than the racy bits of the original epic. Plus, a rapid-fire Greek-or-not quiz that may have gotten a little too competitive, lots of gossip about wishbone and pop culture, and of course, a plea for listeners to Venmo us so we can go sample vineyards in person. This episode is cozy, honest, and full of nerdy joy — think wine notes, mythological tangents, and big feelings about dogs, hubris, and how language evolves. Pour yourself something special and join us for the ride — we’re loud, affectionate, and absolutely here for season six.

Hey friend — dive into this wild episode where we unpack a meat raffle that smelled fishier than the prize cooler. We narrate an animated tale of suspicious organizers, awkward confrontations, and the kind of midwestern bar drama you didn’t know you needed. From people in charge winning prizes to an MC calling out their own victory, we react, joke, and pass judgement (literally) as things escalate to glares and a hasty exit. Whether you love a good steak or just crave juicy gossip, we keep it casual, hilarious, and oddly heartwarming as we debate etiquette, ethics, and the golden rule of raffles: if you run it, don’t play. Pull up a chair, grab your favorite snack (not the raffle meat), and listen in — we’re calling it: not the asshole, but the situation deserves a hard side-eye.

Hey — welcome back to the True Crimes Against Wine sidebar. This one’s a little embarrassing (false memories are real) but also delightful: Rachel and Fact Checker finally made it to Tori Amos in Atlanta, and I’m here to spill everything — the good, the ridiculous, and the emotional. First, quick housekeeping: we both genuinely thought we’d already recorded this, so shoutout to Jamie for reminding us. Also, Rachel owes the producer a giant apology — she really put him through it and even promised to pay for therapy (but only once). True podcast drama, right? OK, the show: it was amazing. Tori turned 63 (happy birthday, Tori!), and while her voice has deepened a bit with age, her signature sound absolutely shines. She had three backup singers — a new addition for her — and they filled in harmonies and high notes beautifully. The band (drums with cool chimes setup and bass) brought a fuller, more intense energy to songs that felt almost heavy-metal at times. The set was a lovely mix of new tracks, deep cuts, and classics — Fire to Your Plane, Shush (which hit like a revelation live), Ruby Through the Looking Glass, Precious Things, Taxi Ride, Spring Haze, and of course Cornflake Girl and Big Wheel encores. She even closed with Imagine which brought Fact Checker to tears — I loved that. The crowd was a whole vibe: diehard fans, moms bringing teens who ended up smiling by the end, and one woman who danced her whole body off in her seat after a few drinks (amusing, not annoying from where we were). And yes, in true concert spirit, someone dared and someone threw a bra on stage — double-dog dared energy intact. There’s something magical when a group of musicians genuinely enjoy playing together, and you could feel that trust and joy on stage. If you love Tori even a little, go — the tour’s still happening and this was absolutely worth it. If you want to reach us, email truecrimesagainstwine@gmail.com or find us on Instagram. And once again, Rachel says sorry to the producer — therapy’s on her, but just this once.

A non-binary person with GERD keeps their medication in a Tylenol bottle at work. A coworker named Bob accuses them of getting high at work, then calls HR after they respond to his comment with self-deprecating humor, calling themselves "fat." The hosts discuss workplace harassment, the role of HR, documenting incidents, and whether the letter writer was in the wrong. Spoiler: they weren't. The episode turns into a lively chat about ageism, queerphobia, and toxic office culture, complete with hilarious side tangents about cat pageants and imaginary office soap operas.

Hey, Renee — and hey friend. If you’ve got a client dinner coming up and don’t want to look out of your depth (but also don’t want to be stiff and boring), this chat has your back. There are two main vibes you can lean into: the quietly sophisticated move or the casually cool cocktail move. For the low-key, impress-without-trying option, go wine: a Pinot Noir, especially from Willamette Valley or Burgundy, is a safe, classy choice that says you’re worldly and confident without shouting it. Avoid polarizing picks like big Cabs or sweet Rieslings. If the spot is more modern or has a fun cocktail program, use the menu to your advantage — pick a base spirit you like (tequila, rum, whiskey) and ask the server about a cocktail by name, or ask its flavor profile. That shows thoughtfulness and curiosity without pretending to be an expert. In old-school or male-dominated settings, ordering a whiskey-forward cocktail, an Old Fashioned, or a specific scotch can be an intentional power move — annoying and unfair that it works, but also effective. Conversely, avoid party drinks (Long Island Iced Tea, shots) unless you’re celebrating and the group is going there. Martini fans: if you go this route, know the terminology (gin vs. vodka, dry vs. extra dry, stirred vs. shaken, up vs. on the rocks, garnish) so you don’t give away that you’re faking it. If you can, glance at the cocktail list before you sit so you’re not flustered, and don’t be the person who orders first unless you know what you want — mirroring the group and projecting calm confidence will take you far. Bottom line: it’s less about the exact drink and more about how you order it — poised, informed, and present. Now go close that deal, hold your drink like you know what you’re doing, and hey — if it’s Margaritaville and scooters with cup holders, send pics.

Hey friend — if you’re planning a pool day and want to bring something better than boxed rosé (but still chill and easy), this episode’s for you. We’re big fans of low-drama, high-fun batched drinks: think margaritas and mojitos as the MVPs. They’re simple to scale, super tweakable, and they won’t leave you with a sad, flat, sugary mess after a few hours in the sun. Quick PSA: don’t bring Long Island iced tea to the heat. Also, please don’t do blue motherfuckers. Learned that the hard way — way too much alcohol with way too much artificial sugar and a color that makes you question life choices. If you’re making something for a group, pick something that stays pleasant in a pitcher. Real talk on batched cocktails: start simple. Margaritas are the perfect base — tequila, lime, and a touch of agave. Mojitos are great too, just keep the soda separate so it stays fizzy when you serve. For fruit-forward sweetness, use ripe fruit (watermelon, strawberries, peaches) and muddle it in the pitcher for natural flavor instead of dumping in extra sugar. Sugar + sun = rough morning, so let the fruit do the work. Want to get fancy? Try spicy margaritas with jalapeño, or play with citrus like blood orange or a lemon-lime-orange blend. If you want bubbles, batch the base and top each poured drink with Prosecco or soda — don’t pre-mix the fizz. Also, remember large-batch ratios sometimes need a little tweaking from your single-drink recipe, so taste and adjust before you serve. Another favorite hack: make a few different lemonades (spicy watermelon lemonade, triple-citrus lemonade, ginger-peach lemonade) and let folks pick their liquor — rum, vodka, tequila, gin — so people can control strength and sweetness. It’s great for guests who don’t drink much; they still get a delicious refresher without the buzz. Bottom line: keep it fresh, keep it simple, and don’t over-sweeten. If you try one of these batched ideas (or invent your own twist), tell us how it went — we love hearing your variations. Hit us up at truecrimesagainstwine@gmail.com or on Instagram. We’ll send you some swag if it’s cute enough. Cheers and enjoy the pool!

Hey — this episode is one for the books. A mom finds out her adult daughter has been secretly taking her grandchild to stay with the father’s religious, homophobic family after the dad came out and was disowned. She tells her daughter she’s disgusted, informs the dad, and now custody leniency is gone. Big feelings and bigger consequences all around.Listen, I get it — there are layers here. The dad was forced into a life he couldn’t sustain and finally came out; his parents reacted terribly. The daughter’s hurt and anger after the breakup are real, but sneaking the child around people who actively disowned their own son? That crosses a line. It’s spiteful, and it puts a kid in the middle of adults’ unresolved drama.There’s sympathy to go around: for the dad trying to be authentic, for the daughter coping with betrayal, and even for the grandparents who are trapped in their own beliefs (even if they behaved cruelly). But at the end of the day, protecting the child matters most — and telling your grown kid you’re disgusted for enabling hate is hard, brave, and necessary.No neat endings here — custody is tighter now and relationships are strained — but this is a reminder that adults’ choices have real impact on kids. If you’re on Team Boundaries and Basic Human Decency, this episode will land. If you’re still wrestling with empathy for everyone involved, that’s okay too — it’s complicated, messy, and painfully real.

Hey — quick catch-up: this episode dives into a husband who’s been the butt of his wife’s friend Megan’s “jokes” for months. Little digs about cooking, fixing things, and asking if he’s sulking turned into a pattern that felt less like teasing and more like deliberate bullying. He usually laughed it off to avoid awkwardness, but when it kept happening at a party, he finally said, “Can you stop? It’s getting annoying being the punchline every time we hang out.” The room went quiet, Megan got embarrassed and left early, and later a few people scolded him for not pulling her aside. But here’s the thing — if someone is chronically making your partner uncomfortable and your friend group watches it happen, you can’t just expect the target to always tiptoe around the problem. Sometimes boundaries have to be set in the moment. This conversation gets into who’s actually in the wrong — Megan for the mean comments, the wife and friends for letting it go on, and whether calling someone out publicly is ever justified when the behavior has been ongoing. There’s also a hint of possible flirtation or “negging,” and the classic bully defense: “I’m just joking.” So what do you think? Would you have pulled her aside privately, or stood up in the moment like he did? Tell me how you’d handle a friend who keeps making your partner the punchline — I want to hear your take.

DEFENDANT: Midsomar  EVIDENCE: Sun Goddess Pinot Grigio SCENE OF THE CRIME: A Maypole Near You...  -- Hey friend — welcome to our bonus midsummer episode! We kick things off with playful banter about time, podcast firsts, and then dive into the lushly sunlit weirdness of Ari Aster’s Midsommar while sipping Mary J. Blige’s Sun Goddess Pinot Grigio. Expect gossip, gross food talk, and the kind of movie chat that makes you want to rewatch with a notebook. We nerd out on the Friuli region (hello rose-gold Pinot Grigio color!), savor juicy melon-and-nectarine tasting notes, and praise the wine for being both approachable and surprisingly complex. Then we pivot into the film: Florence Pugh’s Dani, toxic boyfriend Christian, and that creeping daylight dread that makes Midsommar feel like artful folk horror instead of just jump scares. There’s also a playful Midsommar traditions true/false quiz, heated opinions about who deserves what, and a long, affectionate breakdown of costumes, rituals, and the film’s ambiguous place between indigenous practice and cult. We wrap with whether we’d join a cozy wine-loving cult (spoiler: yes — but only the Nancy Meyers version) and all the micro-joys that make this episode feel like a friend sitting on your patio, passing the bottle and whispering theories.

Hey friend — welcome to this episode of True Crimes Against Wine! We spent a little time nerding out about what’s popping in the wine world this summer, and honestly, some of it is super fun and worth keeping an eye out for. First up: rosé remains everywhere. It’s the easiest glass to recognize and the easiest choice when you want something fresh, fun, and usually dry. Sparkling rosé? Instant party. It’s the mood drink for warm weather and patio hangs — dangerously drinkable in the best way. Also gaining steam: chillable, crushable reds. Think lighter-bodied reds (not your heavy, tannic Cab) that actually taste great slightly chilled — bright, floral, cranberry-like fruit that’s perfect for a hot patio or a lazy brunch. And here’s the spicy one: simultaneous-ferment rosés — a real old-school technique where red and white grapes are fermented together. Some winemakers are reviving it, and it’s starting to show up with a trendy nickname — blouge (ugh, right?). You might spot it first at trendy brunch spots and in big-city wine shops. It’s technically a rosé but often sits in that chillable-red vibe. If you find a favorite pool-season bottle, tell us! Email TrueCrimesAgainstWine@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram — we love hearing what you’re sipping. Also: we have new swag and a few koozies left; tell us your size if you send something and we’ll try to send one back. Cheers — can't wait to taste-test some of this stuff with you. Bye!

Hey Miguel (and friends) — welcome to Atlanta! If you’ve got World Cup plans, here’s a friendly, no-nonsense run-down of how to actually enjoy the city without losing your mind. First: traffic and transport. Do not rent a car. Atlanta traffic is terrible (think worse than LA in spots) and downtown parking/driving is confusing. Plan on using Uber/Lyft to get around — MARTA exists but can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar. And please, don’t rent an e-scooter unless you want people yelling at you. Neighborhoods are the heart of Atlanta, so pick one (or two) and explore. Little Five Points is great for dive bars, thrift shops, and weirdos; Inman Park and Candler/Decatur offer walkable shops and food; East Atlanta Village and Edgewood Avenue (check out Joystick for an arcade-bar vibe) are fun nights out; Ponce City Market is huge for food and shopping and sits right on the Beltline — a lovely path for a stroll, people-watching, and dogs. For views and golden hour, hit The Clermont Hotel rooftop. For a slightly elevated, ever-changing dining experience, try The Consulate in Midtown — amazing drinks and a rotating menu inspired by different regions. If you want late-night, local, and legendary tacos, try Nancy’s Taqueria (delivery-only, late into the night) and for classic Southern-stays-true vibes try Waffle House — it’s an essential Atlanta experience. If you’re chasing legit international eats, make the trip to Buford Highway — it’s a destination for Asian, Latin American and other authentic cuisines. It’s a bit of a trek but worth it. Also keep an eye out for pop-ups near the stadium (there’s one at Walker & Haynes from a local bar) if you want quick drinks and snacks near the event. Some extra tips: expect world-class soccer fans for Atlanta United (they’re predictable and courteous), but Falcons game days can get chaotic with lots of out-of-towners and bad driving. Don’t Airbnb your place to random event-goers if you’re worried about parties and damage. Oh — and don’t call the city “Hotlanta” unless you want to start a riot. Have fun, eat well, and explore neighborhoods rather than camping out downtown. If you want specific recs based on what you like (cheap eats, craft cocktails, late-night snacks), tell me your vibe and I’ll narrow it down.

Hey friend — this episode’s sidebar is a cozy, hilarious chat about Tori Amos’s brand-new album In Times of Dragons, a little tour gossip, and some very serious bagel bite nostalgia. We gush over favorite songs (the title track Shush, Strawberry Moon, and the joyous Pyrite), unpack the album’s political edge and clever dragon metaphor for concentrated wealth, and celebrate Tori’s poetic lyricism that reads like standalone poetry while also hitting hard as songs. You’ll also get playful banter about live shows, family collaborations (her daughter and husband join in the music), and the delightful idea of listening to albums like it’s 1999 — CD booklet, full attention, zero interruptions. Plus, expect our trademark soup talk and general slurpy vibes. Big thanks to Jamie for the question — hit us up with your favorite tracks and stay tuned for a possible concert follow-up!

Hey — welcome back. We’re diving straight into a messy, emotional family moment that unspooled at the worst possible time: a middle-schooler is grieving the loss of a classmate, and the adults around her fall apart instead of showing up. This episode walks through a dad’s frantic return from a trip, a mother with a deep fear of funerals, and a grandmother who jumps in and calls out the mom — sparking a blowup over who should apologize and what real parenting looks like. I’m with you: funerals are heavy, and kids need supportive adults who can put their own stuff aside. But this story also shows how much context matters — trauma, phobias, and old family tensions could all be playing a role. We break down the reactions (and the “dun-dun” vibes), ask the questions the Reddit post leaves out, and get real about how messy grief and communication can get when everyone’s hurting.   Tune in for empathy, sharp takes, and a few laughs — because sometimes the only way through the worst parts of life is with humor and honesty. And yes, we might roast a mother-in-law or two along the way.

Hey there, wine lovers and amateur relationship detectives! 🍷🕵️‍♀️ In this People’s Court episode of True Crimes Against Wine, Judge Topher takes on a juicy Reddit-style dilemma involving emotional cheating, workplace crushes, secret text messages, and a husband who’s gotten a little too attached to his 19-year-old coworker. 😬 When one wife notices her husband acting suspiciously around a much younger “friend,” alarm bells start ringing. Between private conversations, secret-sharing games, hidden messages, and a whole lot of vague explanations, what starts as a gut feeling quickly spirals into a relationship mess involving not one, not two, but three relationships. 💥 We dive into the difference between friendship and emotional affairs, discuss trust, transparency, and boundaries in long-term relationships, and share some personal experiences with partners who blurred those lines. Along the way, we ask the big question: when someone is clearly hiding something, is exposing the truth ever the wrong move? Packed with hot takes, relationship drama, and plenty of side-eye for people making questionable decisions, this episode is equal parts entertaining and cathartic. Pour yourself a glass and join us as we decide who’s really at fault in this tangled web of secrets, flirting, and broken trust. Cheers! 🥂

Hey, friend — welcome back to another cozy, slightly cursed episode of True Crimes Against Wine. We read Melanie's letter (love you, Melanie) about falling asleep to our show and waking up with absolute wine-fueled nightmares, and honestly? Same. We dive into the weird world of stress dreams versus full-on nightmares: the classic bathroom-where-the-stalls-don't-fit, the endless-final-exam-that-you-never-studied, and the work-nightmare where the POS system is plotting against you. Relatable and chaotic. We also swap true nightmare stories — slow-running to lock doors, doors that open when they absolutely shouldn’t, and the poor sleep-talker whose nightly mantra is so consistent it’s basically a law. There are laughs, empathetic groans, and yes, a little bit of screaming in your sleep. It’s the kind of chat that makes you feel like you’re on the couch with us, wine glass in hand (or in the other room, as we attempted this time). If you’re prone to spooky dreams, maybe skip the Halloween episodes before bed — or do you want the thrill? Either way, we appreciate our listeners who drift off to our nonsense, and we’ll keep reading your letters. Also, free swag! Koosies, tall and standard, random old merch — we’ll throw together a care package for our long-timers. So cheers to better dreams, fewer open door moments, and fewer Trulies that taste like a crime scene. Sweet dreams, and keep the letters coming.

DEFENDANT: Bruce EVIDENCE: Jaws Amity Island Red Blend SCENE OF THE CRIME: A Beach Near You -- Hey friend — welcome to the season finale of True Crimes Against Wine, where we drank a Jaws-labeled Napa red and then took a deep dive into sharks, sea-snail sex, and why Spielberg’s technical failures made cinema history. We’re sipping a 55% Petit Syrah blend with Merlot, Cabernet and a cheeky 5% Aligoté (yes, Aligoté!), talking oak and cinnamon, and wondering whether the grape’s fruit-forward nose would match the surprisingly soft, dry sip. We reminisce about our first Jaws experiences, dissect the iconic two-note theme (you know the one), and praise the film’s suspenseful genius born from broken mechanical sharks. There are quiz rounds, outfit descriptions (I’m the poodle in a fur coat — clearly), and a whole lot of drunk rambling about bull sharks, the USS Indianapolis, friendship foam, and sea-creature mating rituals that somehow led us to discuss third nipples and the best mid-’70s blazers. Classic season finale energy. If you love movie lore, bad-but-fun wine labels, and unfiltered sidebar chaos, this episode is a salty, sunburned treat. Grab something chilled (or cellar-temp) and come hang — we’ll keep the people’s court, the sidebar nonsense, and maybe even a special summer surprise if we remember. Until then: stay in the shallow end, cheers, and happy summer.

Hey friend — welcome back to True Crimes Against Wine. Today we dive into a toothpaste-level messy Reddit post: a woman sleeps with a guy who flirted with her, later finds out (via an unsent text) he’s in a relationship, and now wonders if she's the asshole for continuing to hook up. Spoiler: the hosts have strong opinions. We read the whole thing out loud — the creeping suggestive looks, the technical "I'm not married" dodge, the unsent confession, and that shaky justification that ‘‘if it's not me it'll be someone else anyway.’’ We call out the red flags: half-truths, deletions, and anyone who hides things with legalistic wordplay. If someone relies on technicalities to lie, they're not a trustworthy partner — and that matters for everyone involved. The tone gets real and candid: the hosts own up to past mistakes, talk about what it feels like to be cheated on, and explain why continuing to sleep with someone you know is in a relationship is choosing to aid a betrayal. You're not culpable for what you didn't know, but once you know, it's on you to do better. The verdict is blunt and unforgettable. We also unpack the messy justifications people use, the hazards of affairs becoming a pattern, and why honesty should be non-negotiable. Expect laughs, sharp takes, a few gross metaphors, and a solid "cut your losses and move on." Got a juicy Reddit case you want judged on People's Court? Send it to TrueCrimesAgainstWine on Instagram or drop us a line at our Gmail — we love the messy ones. Cheers, and enjoy the episode.

DEFENDANT: Scarlett O'Hara  EVIDENCE: Southern Belle Jumilla, "The Mourner"  SCENE OF THE CRIME: Jumilla, Spain, oddly enough -- Hey friend — grab a glass and curl up: this episode pairs a bold Spanish wine called Southern Belle with the messy, fascinating world of Gone with the Wind. We unpack the bottle (visually and taste-wise), the winery’s playful Southern Gothic art, and the surprising bourbon-barrel twist — then dive deep into Margaret Mitchell’s life, the book’s complicated legacy, and the movie’s glittering, problematic hold on culture.   We don’t shy away from the sticky stuff: racism, mythmaking, class, and how nostalgia can soften historical pain. We also gush over the label art, sip notes of ripe cherry and clay, and argue about Scarlett, Rhett, Hattie McDaniel, and who truly deserves blame — while keeping it personal, candid, and a little bit goofy. Whether you want wine recs or a thoughtful, cozy chat about one of America’s most contentious classics, this episode has you covered.   Pop a bottle, take a seat on the imaginary Spanish terrace, and let’s talk about stories, wine, and why some things resist easy answers.

Get ready for one of the wildest mother-in-law stories and family drama podcast episodes yet!  In this hilarious People’s Court episode of True Crimes Against Wine, Judge Topher dives into a shocking gender reveal gone wrong involving an overbearing mother-in-law, toxic family dynamics, pregnancy boundary issues, and a husband caught in the middle. When a first-time mom’s special baby gender reveal is hijacked by her manipulative mother-in-law, who shares the baby’s gender news without permission, the drama escalates fast. From intrusive pregnancy behavior and public belly-kissing to emotional manipulation, disrespect, and serious boundary-crossing, this episode unpacks one of the internet’s most outrageous parenting and in-law conflict stories.  If you love Reddit-style relationship drama, mother-in-law horror stories, pregnancy podcasts, family conflict discussions, and funny commentary on toxic relationships, this episode is for you. We’re talking baby announcement etiquette, difficult in-laws, setting healthy boundaries, and how to protect your peace before your new baby arrives.  Pour yourself a glass and join us for this funny, relatable, and brutally honest breakdown of family dysfunction, marriage stress, and next-level grandparent drama. Cheers!

DEFENDANT: Leonardo DaVinci EVIDENCE: DaVinci Pinot Grigio SCENE OF THE CRIME: Renaissance Italy -- Hey friend — come hang out with us for a delightfully silly, slightly spicy stroll through art, wine, and history. We’re sipping an easy Pinot Grigio, dreaming up melon-and-prosciutto pizzas, and taking Leonardo da Vinci on tour: his notebooks, love life rumors, flying machines, and that massive (now-ruined) horse project. We gossip about museum wine nights, the chaos of the Louvre, and Michelangelo’s beef about buff bodies — all while drinking, cracking jokes, and treating the past like our most dramatic friend. If you love cozy, chatty episodes that blend pop-culture riffs with art history, this one’s for you: we mix tasting notes (pear, green apple, underripe honeydew), travel stories, and scandalous little details about Renaissance Italy (including sodomy charges, apprentices, and sketchy patrons). It’s like eavesdropping on two pals at the museum bar. Pull up a chair, pour a glass, and prepare for Leonardo’s courtroom (sort of) — full of gossip, goofy hypotheticals, pizza plots, and a little wine-fueled wisdom. Ciao, cheers, and try not to get gooey over the melon slices on your pizza.

Hey — let’s talk Gothic. If you loved the Wuthering Heights episode but aren’t sure what “Gothic” means, here’s a friendly, no‑pressure rundown: it’s a literary vibe that exploded in the late 1700s and early 1800s (part of Romanticism) and stuck around because people couldn’t get enough of spooky mystery, big feelings, and weird houses. At its core Gothic mixes suspense and the supernatural with secrets from the past: ghosts (or things that feel like ghosts), hidden diaries or cursed heirlooms, murmured scandals, and the sense that history is still very much alive — and maybe angry. Stories often leave the door open between a rational explanation and the uncanny, so you’re always wondering what’s real. The setting matters: remote, isolated places—windy moors, stormy cliffs, spooky woods, and usually a grand but slightly crumbling manor. That atmosphere of beauty plus decay is basically Gothic’s aesthetic fingerprint. Protagonists are frequently women, which made these books especially thrilling for female readers back when options for adventurous stories were limited. Other common threads: intense emotion over reason, troubled or doomed romances, the ever‑present shadow of death, and objects that carry memory or menace. Short stories work great as an intro (hello, Poe), and novellas are perfect if you want a quick, delicious chill. Gothic isn’t one thing — it splinters into cool subgenres. Southern Gothic, for example, folds in religious hypocrisy, the legacy of violence, and heavy landscape feeling. Contemporary takes like Mexican Gothic (Silvia Moreno‑Garcia) remix classic Gothic tropes—isolated mansions, family secrets—with new cultures, histories, and anxieties. Other great touchstones: Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Rebecca, The Turn of the Screw (Bly Manor), Shirley Jackson’s Hill House, Daphne du Maurier, Edgar Allan Poe, and even films like Crimson Peak that lean into the look and mood. Gothic also shows up in real cultural practices and local histories: think of rituals that try to heal a place’s memory or reckon with past violence. Those real world echoes are part of what keeps the genre alive and relevant — it’s not just spooky houses, it’s how communities remember and reckon with what happened there. If you want to dive in, try a Poe short story, a classic like Jane Eyre, or a modern pick like Mexican Gothic or a T. Kingfisher novella. And hey — if you’ve got favorites, tell us. I want to know what weird, moody books give you chills.

DEFENDANT: PBS Kids! EVIDENCE: A to Z Wineworks Chardonnay SCENE OF THE CRIME: A TV near you!  -- Hey friend — grab a glass and settle in! In this cozy episode of True Crimes Against Wine, Judge Topher and Judge Rachel pair a bright, stainless-steel A to Z Oregon Chardonnay with a nostalgic deep-dive into PBS Kids. Expect lots of nostalgic tangents (Lisa Frank stickers, slap bracelets, and wishbone adventures), a warm appreciation for Sesame Street, Arthur, Reading Rainbow and more, plus a fun celebrity pop-quiz about famous folks who popped up on kids’ programming. We chat about the wine's fresh pineapple, pear, and apple notes, why it's a perfect picnic pick, and how A to Z Wineworks' women-led, sustainability-focused mission makes sipping feel extra great. Then we get delightfully nostalgic — from Mr. Rogers and Carmen Sandiego to Ghostwriter, Dragon Tales and the many ways PBS taught curiosity, empathy and real-world smarts. It's casual, silly, and heartfelt: think spirited wine tasting meets childhood memory lane. So open a bottle, slap on a bracelet, and come hang out with us for a chat about why PBS Kids still matters, why this Chardonnay punches above its $15 price tag, and why some shows (and stickers) are forever.

Hey, friend — we just finished hashing out the latest Bridgerton season and had too many thoughts not to share. Part one felt overly familiar, like a direct nod to Cinderella, but give it time: the second half finds its footing with sharper plotting, satisfying sleuthing, and some welcome emotional payoffs (yes, Sophie and Benedict get their moment). The season leans hard into Queen Charlotte’s boredom, Penelope’s hard-won choices, and a sneaky new Lady Whistledown reveal that throws everything wide open — cue the credits read by a surprise voice. Eloise’s storyline is the one we’re most hyped about for the future; we’re quietly rooting for her to break the mold, choose herself (or maybe a woman), and even become a swashbuckling travel writer. Honestly, bring on season five with Eloise center stage. If you’re looking for juicy erotic peaks like earlier seasons, this one’s tamer, but it’s still a gorgeous binge: the costumes, soundtrack, sets, and cheeky drama make it perfect for half-watching while you scroll. Overall? Not the show’s strongest season, but fun enough — and it leaves you excited for what’s next.

DEFENDANT: Frances Hodgson Burnett EVIDENCE: Secret Garden Rose Gin SCENE OF THE CRIME: The moors, darling, the moors! -- Hi — come sit with us while we get a little giddy and a lot floral. In this episode of True Crimes Against Wine we test a rosy Scottish gin called Secret Garden, riff on three garden-ready cocktails (a Rose Garden Spritz, a Strawberry Smash, and a Lavender-Lemon Stroll), and wander straight into the moody, magical world of Frances Hodgson Burnett's The Secret Garden. We talk sparkling cava vs prosecco, muddled berries, honey-lavender syrup, and why mint on the rim is a total game-changer, then break down why this hundred-year-old story still makes our hearts ache — the visuals, the soundtrack, the gothic elements, and yes, the complicated colonial moments that deserve honest conversation. Bring a glass, bring a friend, and get ready for springtime vibes, serious giggles, and a few tender asides about loss, literature, and why a secret garden is the best kind of therapy.

SpOoOoky episode; listen if you dare! 👻👻👻

DEFENDANT: Agent 007, Commander James Bond EVIDENCE: Martinis SCENE OF THE CRIME: Our Secret Lair -- Hey friend — grab a glass and settle in. In this episode we put the martini itself on trial: from the citrus-bright Vesper to a garden-fresh basil-cucumber twist, plus a yuzu-matcha surprise that doubles as our truth serum. We sip, argue, and nerd out about James Bond — the actors, the gadgets, the infamous "shaken, not stirred" debate, and the songs that make you feel like walking into a slow-motion title card.   Expect cozy banter, a few too many martinis, pop-culture tidbits, and lots of affectionate teasing (and yes, some of that classic Bond misogyny and other problematic bits get called out). Whether you love Shirley Bassey, are Team Vesper, or just here for the gossip about which Bond almost died/was recast/played by a model who conned his way into a role — we’ve got you.   We keep it casual — like a long conversation with a friend who brought cocktails and way too many fun facts. If you’ve got martini riffs, Bond takes, or favorite theme songs, slide into our inbox — and cheers: 007 out.

Hi, welcome to another episode of True Crimes. Against wine. We're doing a people\u2019s court today. The story: two 26-year-olds, six years together. Early on, she was diagnosed with vaginismus — a medical condition that made penetration impossible despite physiotherapy and dilators. For years, they tried oral and manual sex, but over time his desire and emotional connection faded. They fought about whose "fault" it was, he sought therapy, and they tried to end things gradually, but it ended more abruptly after a heated argument. Now she's telling friends he put her in an impossible situation; he's left wondering if he was unreasonable. This episode explores intimacy, medical issues, trauma, guilt, and how young couples navigate big, painful challenges. Join us as we unpack the situation with empathy and honest questions.

DEFENDANT: Emily Brontë EVIDENCE: Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignon "Katherine" 2023 SCENE OF THE CRIME: The wild moors of Alexander Valley, Sonoma, CA -- Hey — settle in with a bowl of soup and a good glass, because this episode is equal parts wine tasting and literary sleuthing. We pop a bottle of Goldschmidt’s “Catherine” from Stonemason Hill in Alexander Valley (Sonoma), sniff out garnet color, black cherry and red‑plum fruit, a blueberry peak of ripeness, and a lovely stone‑like minerality with velvety tannins. It’s approachable, not pretentious, and sits in that sweet spot around $40 — perfect to bring to dinner or enjoy on a stormy night with friends (and a dog wedged between you). Then we tumble headfirst into Wuthering Heights: Emily Brontë’s 1847 Gothic whirlwind of obsession, class friction, and moor‑bound drama. We talk about Emily’s short, wild life, the Brontë family dynamics, the book’s thorny questions (are Catherine and Heathcliff half‑siblings? are they in love or simply consumed by each other?), and why the novel is more morally complicated than the romantic myth that often gets pasted onto it. Finally, we air our grievances with Emerald Fennell’s new film: gorgeous visuals, striking costumes, and some undeniably hot scenes — but also some big misses. Miscasting, whitewashing a character whose outsider status is crucial to the story, and a sleight-of-hand that ends up glamorizing an abusive, toxic relationship left us frustrated. If you love Wuthering Heights, don’t be fooled: this adaptation is a visually lush reinterpretation, not a faithful or thoughtful translation of the novel’s core themes. Short version: drink the Catherine (it’s delightful), read the book (it’s messy, brilliant, and not for the faint‑hearted), and watch the movie cautiously — especially if you’re handing it to younger viewers who might mistake obsessive cruelty for tragic romance.

Hi there. Welcome to another episode of True Crimes Against Wine. In this episode we dig into Bridgerton season 4 (first four episodes) with hot takes, spoilers, and a lot of laughs. We chat about the new heroine Sophie, Benedict’s surprise Cinderella arc, the show's heavy-handed nods to classic tropes (midnight, silver slippers, the whole shebang), and whether continuing the series past season three was a brilliant idea or a cash-grab mistake. We also talk casting, visual vibes, the recurring music covers, and the characters we wish got more screen time — especially Eloise. Join us as we rant, gush, and debate whether the show’s predictability ruins the fun or if pretty costumes and steamy scenes are still worth the watch.

DEFENDANT: Herman Melville  EVIDENCE: Melville Estate Pinot Noir SCENE OF THE CRIME: Santa Rita Hills, and the Big Blue Sea -- Hey friend — pour yourself a glass and come sit with us. In this episode Judge Topher and Judge Rachel finally introduce themselves (yes, really) and then proceed to hijack a $75 Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir, talk glassware, sniff cherries, sage, pepper and a little eucalyptus, and declare that yes: this bottle is absolutely worth the fuss.   We wander from tasting notes (garnet color, plums, violets, forest-floor complexity) to winery vibes — estate-grown, sustainable farming, family stories — then slip into full literary chaos as we roast, admire, and gently disembowel Herman Melville. Expect idle mutiny, a ridiculous cross‑examination quiz, surprising Melville facts (Mocha Dick!), and the sacred power of the line "Call me Ishmael."   There’s a lot of laughing, a little spilled wine, a bonus boxed-Pinot for scientific — ahem, comparative — purposes, and lots of off‑topic delights: antique store finds, dog shenanigans (Hermes is a star), and the kind of tangents you only get when two people drink nice wine and refuse to act like sober adults.   By the end we deliver our verdict: not guilty — this Pinot is a winner. Whether you’re here for the wine geekery, the Melville deep dive, or just to feel like you’re in the room with two pals roasting each other and solving the mysteries of the sea, this episode’s for you. Tell us your White Whale (or your favorite Pinot) — we’ll trade you a story and maybe some podcast swag if you’re brave.

Hey friend — buckle up. This episode is peak messy and oddly heartwarming: imagine a Victorian house party with deceptive chocolate cocktails (they sneak up on you), a disco ball spin-off, and one of our hosts getting so tanked she ends up barfing in the shower. Classic. We also dig into the restaurant trenches — you know the ones: forced prix-fixe menus, last-minute menu swaps, entitled Valentine’s diners who stiff servers and act like their big romantic show excuses everything. If you ever wondered why hospitality folks roll their eyes at Feb 14, this episode explains it in gruesome detail. On the flip side, there’s a genuinely sweet chaos: a sneaky ring in a jacket pocket (disguised among empanadas, naturally), a bout of nausea from cigar smoke, and then—after showers and teeth-brushing—the perfect, quiet proposal at home. It’s hilarious and tender all at once: puke, pajamas, and a very sincere “will you?” We rant about how Valentine’s can be performative and cruel, celebrate Galentine’s and the small rituals that actually matter, and trade childhood Valentine memories (cupcakes, cheesy hearts, and all). It’s raw, funny, and totally relatable. Want to swap your best or worst V-Day stories? Slide into our DMs — misery, triumph, and barf tales welcome. Love ya. Cheers.

Hey — this episode unpacks a vacation that went horribly wrong: a 37-year-old narrator brings her partner, toddler and a 16-year-old dog to visit her parents, who are openly hostile to the aging pup. They repeatedly put the dog outside, dump its water, and make cruel comments about putting her down.   The partner withdraws and spends time apart to protect the dog and avoid blowing up, while the narrator freezes because she's conflict-averse and has a fraught relationship with her dad. After they get back, family gossip paints the partner as rude, and the narrator is left asking who the biggest asshole really is.   We cut right to it: the parents are the main problem. Depriving an elderly, anxious dog of water and comfort is cruel, and their passive-aggressive escalation — plus the mom's cruel comments — crossed basic lines. The partner's quiet protection felt reasonable, not disrespectful.   If you were my friend, here’s the real talk: set boundaries. If your parents can’t treat your dog and your family with basic respect, don’t keep subjecting your kid, your partner, and your pup to that toxicity. Practical moves: offer to stay in a hotel with the dog, arrange separate visits, or limit holiday time until boundaries are respected.   You’re allowed to prioritize your immediate family and the emotional safety of your child and pet. Talk to your partner, consider couples or family therapy to sort the fallout, and don’t feel guilty for protecting your household from repeated mistreatment.   We rooted for her to protect her dog and reclaim Christmas — and for anyone listening, be the friend who tells someone they’re allowed to choose kindness and healthy boundaries over obligation.

DEFENDANT: Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald EVIDENCE: Manos Special Edition Great Gatsby Sauvignon Blanc SCENE OF THE CRIME: Long Island -- Hey friend — come sit with us for a cozy, messy chat where wine and soup fuel a no-holds-barred re-read of The Great Gatsby. We get personal, a little loopy, and deeply into the weeds about Gatsby’s tragic love, Tom’s grossness, Daisy’s contradictions, and whether Nick was totally in love with his neighbor. Spoiler: feelings are messy and rich people are worse. Pop a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, lean back, and let us walk you through art-deco bottles, literary gossip, and cheating scandals — plus a surprisingly earnest defense of hand-painted wine labels. We talk Fitzgerald’s life (and terrible choices), Zelda’s shadow, speculative queer readings, and how the book manages to feel both glamorous and kind of rotten all at once. No fake facts here (well, maybe a few), lots of laughs, and zero pretension — just two pals getting hungry, distracted by soup, and falling down rabbit holes about vintage covers, terrible men, and whether Gatsby’s mansion was modeled on a castle. Bring snacks, or don’t — we’ll probably eat them anyway. You’re invited, old sport.

In this episode of True Crimes Against Wine, the hosts dive into a messy roommate-turned-partner dispute about chores. After three years together, a couple split household duties by a rota: feeding three picky cats, handling bills, cleaning litter, doing the washing up, hoovering, and more. Tension explodes when one partner fails to hoover and forgets to put a new toilet roll on the holder. The other partner comes home furious, calling the lapse a betrayal, which leads to name-calling and talk of moving out. The hosts unpack compatibility, expectations around cleanliness, gendered chore dynamics, and whether the couple’s split was inevitable. They tease more stories to come and invite listeners to send in their own juicy disputes.

DEFENDANT: Gilded Age Decadence  EVIDENCE: Biltmore Estate Reserve Chenin Blanc  SCENE OF THE CRIME: The Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC -- Hey friend — welcome back to True Crimes Against Wine for our first full episode of 2026! We’re sipping a slightly off-dry Chenin Blanc (surprise: from Biltmore in North Carolina), chatting about how it tastes like walking through a crisp apple orchard, debating whether monkeys belong at high-society parties, and diving headfirst into the Gilded Age — Mansions, dollar princesses, scandalous debutante balls, and the Vanderbilts’ iconic Biltmore Estate. We pair tasting notes (pear, honey, kiwi, and a lovely balancing acidity) with wild historical tangents, food pairing dreams (shishitos, spicy sausage, melon & prosciutto), and way too many fantasies about being wealthy eccentrics. If you love wine stories, architectural daydreams, and irreverent history deep dives, join us for laughs, snacks, and one judge-y quiz. Tell us your snack, your Biltmore memories, and whether you’d host a monkey at your next party. Cheers!

When wine is on trial, the gossip is dishy, the judges are drunk, the verdicts are random — welcome to True Crimes Against Wine and our first sidebar of 2026! Happy New Year, friend! We kicked off the episode riffing about nostalgia, then dove headfirst into what actually matters: what the next year (and beyond) looks like for wine. Quick take: climate shifts are pushing vineyards north and uphill, which means you’ll be tasting wines with brighter acidity instead of the old-school fruit bombs and heavy oak. Expect to see more accessible, interesting bottles from South America, New Zealand and Australia pop up in your grocery store — tariffs and global economics make Europe trickier right now. Small domestic winemakers are likely to adapt by offering more reserve and niche wines to protect margins, which could change what becomes mainstream over time. Heads-up: this stuff isn’t instant. Replanting vines and aging wines takes years — sometimes close to a decade for certain styles — so producers are making high-stakes bets on harvest timing and vintage quality. I’ve got so much respect for the family-run wineries putting in the sweat equity. As a drinker, that uncertainty is part of the romance; as someone running the farm, I’d be a Walmart greeter in a heartbeat. Also, watch for celebrity collabs — fewer hands-on wine barons, more low-risk partnerships that boost publicity. And yes, tequila keeps rising (margarita season, anyone?), so expect more spirits episodes and celeb bottles to show up fast. If you spot any fun celeb wines or weird regional gems, send them our way — we can’t find everything alone. We’re always sourcing stuff and would love your tips. Reach out at truecrimesagainstwine@gmail.com and find us on TikTok and Instagram — we might send swag. Cheers to 2026: drink a lot, survive, and let’s see what the year pours for us. Bye for now.

Hey friend — welcome to our latest People’s Court episode where we dive into an Am I the Asshole post about a 19-year-old bridesmaid who finally got her ears pierced and wore one-inch silver hoops to her sister’s wedding, only to be called "trashy" and accused of disrespecting the bride. Spoiler: we’re not surprised by how wild this got. We walk through why that reaction felt wildly over the top — the bridesmaid is an adult making a small, tasteful choice, and calling your sibling trashy at your wedding? Cold. We compare it to the exact opposite energy of chill brides who gift matching earrings and set clear, reasonable boundaries, and we laugh (a little cruelly) about how dramatic family weddings can be. Have your own juicy wedding drama? The uncle who threw up, the brother-in-law who got handsy, or the cousin who caused a scene — we want to hear it. Send us your stories at truecrimesagainstwine@gmail.com or find us on TikTok and Instagram — we’ll read the best ones on the show and might even send you some swag. Pour a drink, settle in, and let’s judge some people together — because honestly, it’s way more fun from the guest table.

DEFENDANT: Buddy the Elf EVIDENCE: Manos Wines Special Edition "Elf" Prosecco SCENE OF THE CRIME: From the North Pole all the way to Manhattan and back again!  -- Hey — glad you made it to our cozy chaos. This episode is basically two things: a heavy pour of festive Prosecco (shoutout to the blingy Manos bottle) and a full-on, goofy love letter to Elf — plus the ridiculous trivia and fan theories that make holiday movies feel like family. We talk traditions, awkward childhood rituals, terrible gift-control impulses, and why some of our favorite seasonal things still hit like warm nostalgia.   We nerd out about Elf like it’s evidence in a case: Jon Favreau’s direction, Will Ferrell’s enormous golden-retriever energy, Zooey Deschanel’s surprise musical cameo, James Caan’s grumpy-dad groove, and even that weird Central Park ranger theory that adds a darker layer if you let it. There are shower scenes, department store mayhem, real-life crowd reactions caught on film, and a few production easter eggs (Wanda name tags and stop-motion nods) that are delightfully silly.   Also: yes, we taste the Prosecco. It’s festive, metallic, and exactly what you want for toasts — light, apple-y, and not too sweet. We compare it to champagne, Cava, and whatever else you line up on a party table while you argue whether donut holes count as zero calories and whether sparkling wine and popcorn are an acceptable holiday combo. (They are.)   We get real about the season, too. If you’re feeling pressure to show up for people who drain you, hear us: you don’t have to. Treat holiday plans like a dinner party you actually want to attend. Set boundaries, keep what’s meaningful, and let the rest go. If all else fails, borrow Buddy the Elf’s wide-eyed wonder for a few minutes — it’s the best kind of permission slip to feel joy again.   So pour yourself something fizzy, fold a little ridiculousness into your traditions, and enjoy the stories — goofy, tender, and truer than you might expect. From our cramped, sparkly loft to wherever you’re nesting this season: happy holidays, however you celebrate. Cheers.

Join Judge Rachel and Topher as they relive a delightfully chaotic honeymoon in Edinburgh — from a misbooked Highlands tour that turned into an unexpected adventure, to candlelit luxury at The Witchery and a surprise Muppet Christmas Carol live orchestra. This episode is full of humor, heartfelt moments, and travel mishaps (yes, a bus mix-up that might have saved their lives). If you love stories about how travel plans go sideways and still manage to become the best memories, you'll feel like you're right there with them sipping wine, spotting Highland cows, and hunting for Nessie. Packed with castle strolls, underground tours, secret gardens, and plenty of sarcasm, this sidebar is the perfect post-trip debrief to listen to with a friend.

DEFENDANT: Tori Amos EVIDENCE: Cloud Watcher California Red Blend SCENE OF THE CRIME: "The Finest Vineyards in California"  -- Hey friend — welcome to the chaos: we opened a grocery-store red called Cloud Watcher (hello, green-pepper nose and dark-plum cocoa vibes), wrestled over a billion points in Corrections Corner, and brought our dog Hermes along to supervise. We sip, we sigh, and we trade childhood-cloud stories while debating whether cloud-watching is relaxing or suspiciously boring.    Then things get deliciously melodic because our “defendant” today is Tori Amos. We peel back her origin story — piano prodigy at Peabody, early L.A. band experiments, exile to the UK, and the piano-driven masterpiece Little Earthquakes — and run through highlights from Choirgirl Hotel to Boys for Pele, Night of Hunters and beyond. There’s talk of kazoo deep cuts, mood rings, curly hair aesthetics, and why Tori’s lyrics made us fall in love with poetry all over again.   Of course we couldn’t resist a game: a twelve-question cross-examination where we read lyrics and guessed whether they were Tori or Not-Tori. There were surprises (Fiona Apple, Tracy Chapman, The Cranberries), triumphant wins, a couple of tequila—I mean wine—sips for wrong answers, and a lot of nostalgic 90s energy. You’ll hear about favorite songs (Crucify gets a special shout), concert memories, and how husband, Fact Checker and our little group fit into the Tori fandom saga.   Gossip alert: we dive into the messy 90s drama — Trent Reznor, Courtney Love, and the career fallout that left some fans scribbling love and hate in equal measure. We don’t shy away from the heavy stuff either: there’s a frank moment about trauma, loss, and how those themes weave through Tori’s music.   Between parenthetical jokes about Publix ads, soup-watching disasters, and a recurring helicopter/hematite-cloud dream, this episode is equal parts nerdy music-nerd history and cozy chat over a $10 bottle that punches way above its price. We also bouquet in a little wanderlust — Cornwall homes, haunted castles, and the dream of living like older, well-rested rich people with perfect towels and fireplaces in every room.   So pour a glass, settle in, and listen for the lyric-guessing triumphs, the wardrobe nostalgia (yep, we reunited with our high-school T-shirts), and the way Tori’s songs keep looping back into our weird little lives. If you’re a Tori obsessive, an accidental listener, or just here to find out whether that wine is worth a splurge — welcome, you’re home.

Hey friend — grab a cup of something warm because this episode is basically a cozy love letter to Scotland and the chaos of planning the perfect honeymoon. I’m getting married (yes, Mrs. Fiance—probably?), and Topher — now a travel advisor extraordinaire — planned our whole week in Edinburgh as a wedding gift. He went full curator mode, balancing our must-dos (spooky tunnels? yes please) and the slow, wandering days we actually want to enjoy. We talk about staying put in Edinburgh as our base, skipping the long car treks and islands that would eat half our trip, and instead taking smart day trips and local tours. There’s a historical scavenger-hunt app to help us get our bearings without being rushed, haunted tours that end in dungeons (adults only, thank goodness), and a smidge of golf-related comedy because apparently my honeymoon could’ve been miniature-golf therapy for life choices. Topher’s approach was so thoughtful — he curated the trip around what we genuinely love: walking the city in cardigans, foggy seaside vibes, and spooky stories. He also navigated budget realities (hello, Witchery hotel dreams) and found us a stunning hotel with a VIP upgrade instead of blowing the budget on one ultra-expensive night. Smart, practical, and still romantic. We kept things intentionally unbooked in spots so we can stumble into our own moments, which is my favorite part about travel. It’s the best of both worlds: planned highlights (fairy-highland tour, haunted tunnels) plus lazy pub stops and wandering lanes we’ll want to return to. Also: planning a trip with a travel advisor really changes the game — it felt customized in the best way. So come along as we gush about nostalgia, Scotland, and all the tiny decisions that make a honeymoon feel like a memory-in-progress. And if you ever need a travel nudge (or a good excuse to avoid driving abroad), Topher’s got you — maybe he’ll get you a VIP upgrade too.

DEFENDANT: Everybody Loves Raymond EVIDENCE: Raymond Cellars Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon  SCENE OF THE CRIME: Long Island -- Hey friend — grab a glass and get comfy. In this episode of True Crimes Against Wine we swap the usual table wine for a lush, decanted Raymond Sellers Cabernet Sauvignon (yes, the reserve — velvety label, 14.5% sass included) and spend the episode pairing big-flavor wine notes with bigger TV drama: the sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. We talk vineyard history (Napa’s underdog moment and the Bottle Shock story), decanting tips, and the gorgeous, peppery, black-cherry notes of this super-balanced Cab that the hosts absolutely adore. Then the banter turns to the Barone family: the show’s charm, its most cringe-worthy tropes (the “incompetent husband” bit and how sitcom conventions can sneak into real life), and the cast’s standout performances — from Marie’s manipulative, loving energy to Frank’s grumpy heart and Robert’s deadpan magic. Expect hot takes on Patricia Heaton’s real-life politics, behind-the-scenes casting quirks, and hilarious anecdotes about auditions, auditions-day moods, and even celebrity soap-opera moments (yes, there’s an SVU crossover mention). We laugh, we judge, we get nostalgic about laugh tracks and sitcom dinners (IHOP, anyone?), and ultimately try to render a verdict: is Everybody Loves Raymond guilty of reinforcing tired gender tropes, or just a cozy, flawed classic? Pour yourself something good and listen in — we’ll make you feel like you’re on the couch with us, wine in hand, ready to gossip.

Hey! If we're being honest, soup season is basically the best season — cozy sweaters, warm bowls, and yes, perfectly paired wine. I had so much fun chatting through these with Topher and dreaming up combos that actually make the soup sing (and sometimes calm the heat from sriracha). Here are the highlights, like I’m telling you over a bowl on my kitchen counter.Chili: Go fuller-bodied. Think an Argentinian or Chilean Malbec — it’s got that smoky, peppery vibe and enough fruit to stand up to tomato tang, meatiness, and bean earthiness. Imagine cornbread, chili, and a glug of Malbec — chef’s kiss.Pho: Versatile depending on how you dress it, but a slightly off-dry Gewürztraminer is brilliant if you load it up with heat (it tames spice). If you’re keeping it clean and herb-forward, a crisp rosé is unexpectedly perfect — light, refreshing, and matches the broth without overpowering the basil and cilantro.Bread-bowl French Onion: Rich, savory, and cheesy — you want something that complements without crushing it. An Oregon Pinot Noir with bright red fruit and savory undernotes is a lovely match; it’s lush but not heavy, so the soup’s sweetness and the bread bowl’s heft stay balanced.Campbell’s Chicken Noodle (comfort sick-day vibes): Skip the wine and try a hot toddy — warming whiskey, honey, lemon, maybe hot apple cider and a cinnamon stick. It feels medicinal in the best, coziest way and is exactly the kind of thing you’ll want with nostalgic, soothing soup.Mediterranean Lemon Chicken with Orzo: I love a regional match — Xinomavro (red) if you’re leaning earthy/complex, or Assyrtiko (white) for bright lemon zest, sea-spray salinity, and minerality that plays so well with lemon-and-orzo broths. Full disclosure: I also poured in a couple cups of boxed Sauvignon Blanc while winging the recipe, and honestly — it works. Cook with your heart.Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A lightly oaked Chardonnay — think subtle creaminess, not buttery overload (look for lighter malolactic influence or a Montrachet-style restraint). It mirrors the soup’s richness without turning it into a dairy duel.Okay, I’m starving now — tell me your go-to soup and I’ll tell you what I’d pour. Slurp it up, friend.

DEFENDANT: The Hero of Time EVIDENCE: Siren Song Merlot/Syrah blend SCENE OF THE CRIME: Hyrule -- Hey friend — pop a cork and get comfy. In this episode of True Crime Against Wine we pivoted (blame the internet and a mis-shipped bottle) and ended up sipping a lush Merlot-Syrah blend from Siren Song while getting delightfully nerdy about The Legend of Zelda. Expect giggles, throwback gaming stories, and super honest wine notes — think plush blackberries, juicy plum, and a grown-up juice-box vibe that’s dangerously drinkable. We dive into Zelda’s origins (shoutout to Miyamoto and Tezuka), reminisce about Ocarina of Time demos at the mall, and debate favorite entries like Wind Waker and Breath of the Wild. There’s talk about iconic villains (Ganon, of course), the weirdly existential Link’s Awakening plot, cult-fave enemies (stalfos!), and why Link’s silent-hero design is pure genius for player immersion. Also: a brief side-eye at 900-number culture, a few messy sibling stories, and absolutely too many sips of wine. If you’re into cozy chats about wine, gaming lore, and dumb personal anecdotes, this one’s for you. Cheers — it’s dangerous to go alone, so bring a friend (and maybe another bottle).

Hey friend — here’s the messy little episode: you’re living in a one-bedroom with a partner who does construction and gets terrible back pain, and your seven-month pregnant sister shows up after a big fight with her husband asking to crash and sleep in your bed. Your boyfriend said he couldn’t give it up, you apologized to avoid a fight, and later you found your sister crying in the bathroom. Cue Mom calling and being furious. Ugh.   I totally see both sides: your sister is emotional, pregnant, and needed space, and that’s precious, but your partner’s need for real sleep because of his physical job is also a legit, health-related boundary. This isn’t just about feelings — it’s about a shared home and agreed-upon boundaries, plus the practical reality of one real bed and a couch that’s not ideal every night.   If it were me, I’d start by asking how serious the fight was — if your sister left because she felt unsafe, give her the bed and your full support. If it was a heated argument and she just needed space, a one-night compromise (you on the couch, sister and partner in bed) or a clear, empathetic conversation about limits is reasonable. Neither kindness nor boundaries have to cancel each other out.

DEFENDANT: Pazuzu EVIDENCE: Manos Special Edition "The Exorcist" Cabernet Sauvignon SCENE OF THE CRIME: Hell, or a staircase near you...  -- Hey friend — welcome to our spooky season send-off. We cracked a bottle of Manos Cabernet, sunk into the couch, and dove headfirst into The Exorcist: the movie, the poster, the Pazuzu lore and all the deliciously grim behind-the-scenes gossip. Expect laughter, wine-fueled tangents, and the kind of true-crime sidetracks that only two slightly lubricated hosts can provide. We unpack why that iconic image of Father Merrin under the lamplight still freaks us out (Magritte vibes included), how the film shaped the possession subgenre, and why Linda Blair and Ellen Burstyn left their mark on horror history. We talk casting choices that almost were (Marlon Brando, Audrey Hepburn?), the haunting performance choices, and how Pazuzu went from ancient Mesopotamia to Hollywood’s demon of choice. Of course we get into the messy, human side: on-set injuries, practical effects (the real vomit/peanut-soup moment), Mercedes McCambridge’s voicework, and William Friedkin’s famously brutal directing methods. Plus the awkward modern problems — streaming paywalls, holiday theater lines, and whether you should ever feed Necco wafers to road-trip company. Sprinkled between film history are the personal stories: first-time screenings, dating decisions made at horror films, and the ridiculous pop-culture riffs that happen when you mix wine with movie analysis. If you love spooky, culty cinema, or just want a cozy chat about why The Exorcist still matters (and why Pazuzu might actually be misunderstood), this episode is for you. Give it a listen, tell us your favorite spooky bottle art, and rank our mini-series with us — we want to know which movie haunted you the most. Cheers (and maybe don’t say Pazuzu in a mirror)!

Join us for a laid-back sidebar of True Crimes Against Wine where we dive into our favorite spooky season picks — from psychological dread to nostalgic childhood classics. We trade top-three lists, debate Hocus Pocus ownership (sorry, Topher), and discover surprising picks like Arsenic and Old Lace, Over the Garden Wall, and Trick 'r Treat. Expect cozy black-and-white vibes, campy anthology thrills, and sweet traditions like midnight margaritas and seasonal movie nights. If you love autumnal atmosphere, classic scares, or feel-good witchy rom-coms, this chat has something to add to your watchlist. Pop some popcorn, put on a sweater, and come hang with us for movie recs and cozy fall chat.

DEFENDANT: Pennywise the Dancing Clown EVIDENCE: Manos Special Edition "IT" Cabernet Sauvignon SCENE OF THE CRIME: Derry, Maine -- Hey friend — pull up a chair (but maybe keep an eye on the storm drain). In this episode we crack open some Manos vino and dive headfirst into Stephen King’s It: the book, the 1990 miniseries, and the 2017/2019 films. We chat about why the various adaptations land so differently, what makes Pennywise terrifying (Tim Curry vs. Bill Skarsgård), and how the story’s big ideas — childhood trauma, memory, and fear — get handled across formats. We also get candid about the parts that don’t sit right: problematic elements in the book, how King’s worldview shows up in his writing, and why some of his choices (yep, we mean that one scene) feel unnecessary and disturbing. It’s a frank, cozy, and sometimes messy convo — the kind you’d have with your snarkiest, warmest friends over a glass (or three). If you love horror history, behind-the-scenes casting tea, and judge-y takes on iconic scenes, this episode is for you. And if you’re terrified of clowns or storm drains... we hear you. We’ll hold the light while you walk by the gutter.

Join the hosts of True Crimes Against Wine as they dive into a heated Am I the A**hole Reddit post: a dad is offered a free family trip to Hawaii but his wife, 7 months pregnant, doesn't want to go. Should he take their toddler and enjoy the rare opportunity, or stay to support his pregnant partner? This episode is equal parts judgment, curiosity, and empathy as the hosts debate medical risks, emotional nuances, and communication in relationships. Expect candid takes, laughs, and real-talk about pregnancy, travel safety, and how to handle tough couple decisions — all delivered with the podcast\'s signature snark and warmth.

DEFENDANT: Inconclusive EVIDENCE: Manos Special Edition Friday 13th Cab Sauv SCENE OF THE CRIME: Camp Crystal Lake, duh --  Join Judge Topher and Judge Rachel for a hilariously intimate, wine-soaked chat about the entire Friday the 13th saga. They riff on everything from the original film’s odd pacing and surprise twist to Jason’s evolution (hockey mask, cyborg era, and questionable resurrection logistics). Between sips of Manos Cab and offbeat personal stories (yes, poop tales and mall Freddy sightings included), they debate which sequels make sense, how horror tropes like “sex gets you killed” came to be, and whether Freddy or Jason would actually win. Casual, funny, and warm — it’s like eavesdropping on two friends dissecting slashers, spooky season plans, and the absurdities of genre continuity. Tune in for laughs, nostalgia, and the kind of off-script banter you wish your pals would record.

Hey friend — welcome back to another cozy, slightly silly episode of True Crimes Against Wine. Today we did what any wine-and-dog-loving friends would do: we matched dog breeds to wines (and one cocktail), riffed on personalities, and learned a few fun facts along the way. We wandered through some real winners: a graceful Borzoi that felt like mulled wine by a hearth, a tiny-but-mighty Miniature Pinscher who’s totally Napa Valley Cabernet energy, and an every-neighborhood Pitbull that’s basically the reliable, crowd-pleasing Sauvignon Blanc. Then we got into doodles — smart, energetic, sometimes stubborn — which felt like a spicy, cheeky Malbec. We also paired lab mixes with a California red blend (the kind of bottle you have to investigate online to figure out the exact percentages) and admitted defeat by giving the host’s turbo-then-snoozy puppy an espresso martini because sometimes dogs are straight-up espresso and then instantly a nap. If you’ve got a breed we didn’t cover (and there are a billion of them), we want to hear what you’d pair your pup with. Hit us up on TikTok, Insta, or via email at True Crimes Against Wine — we might do a part two if you all keep the good ideas coming. Cheers, and go give your good dog a scratch for us.

DEFENDANT: Annabelle  EVIDENCE: Manos Special Edition Annabelle Cabernet Sauvignon SCENE OF THE CRIME: Hell -- Hey friend — pull up a chair and pour yourself a glass (or two) — we spent the episode diving into Annabelle, Manos' delightfully creepy collector bottles, and a whole lot of supernatural rambling. Expect laughs, movie takes, and some bourbon-powered philosophy about demons, dolls, and the weird stuff that gives you goosebumps. Whether you’re Team Scared or Team Skeptic, we’re keeping it cozy and a little spooky — like chatting with your most entertainingly weird friend over wine. Come for the horror breakdowns, stay for the ridiculous tangents about haunted lamps, porcelain dolls, and whether priests should just take the damn cursed thing to church.

Hey friend — this episode dives into a tense family showdown: a wife refuses to have her judgmental, purity-culture–pushing mother-in-law move in, while her husband insists it’s his duty. We’re sipping wine, reading Reddit, and delivering a candid verdict about who’s in the wrong — spoiler: it gets heated. Come for the drama, stay for the spicy takes and listener stories. If you’ve got wild in-law tales, we want to hear them.

DEFENDANT: DragonCon EVIDENCE: Old Fourth Ward Limited Edition DragonCon Bourbon SCENE OF THE CRIME: Atlanta, Georgia! -- Hey friend — we’re back for Season 5 and we start things off with bourbon, Dragon Con vibes, and the kind of stories you only find when nerd culture meets true crime. Join us for cocktails, cosplay chat, a few messy scandals, and loads of heart. Grab a drink, get cozy, and let’s catch up like old pals — we’ve missed you.

Hey friend — we’re kicking off season five with a cozy, gossip-filled Q&A. Come hang while we spill our first celeb scandals, swap fave (and not-so-fave) wines, and debate whether a hot dog is a sandwich or a taco. It’s low-key, honest, and full of the kind of banter we’d have over a picnic bottle of Pinot. Got questions? Send them our way — we love answering on the show and sending out swag.

Hey friend — quick life update: after some tough losses we brought home two new sweet chaos-makers, Sylvan the snuggly cat and Marina the curious puppy, and they’ve already made the house feel whole again. Expect loud kibble crunching, surprise ankle ambushes, backyard zoomies, and lots of goofy moments — and yes, we want to see your pet pics because they absolutely make our day.

Hey there, lovely listeners! In this episode, we're diving into some serious fashion revelations about my fiancé's wedding outfit. Originally, this episode was all about the accessories for the big day, but guess what? There's been a major update — the suit has finally been chosen!  My fiancé went on a thrilling sartorial adventure with his brothers, breaking the mold with a stunning plum-colored suit. Trust me, it's not your typical wedding look, ditching the predictable dark blue for something bold and fall-appropriate. But don't worry, no fedoras were harmed in the making of this episode! We chat through the high-stakes decision-making, have a laugh at past questionable fashion choices, and even take a poll on a certain tie — let's see if I get proven wrong!  Plus, you'll hear all about the perfect accessories to match my floral veil. So, cozy up, grab a glass of wine, and let us take you on this fun, fashion-forward journey. We'd love to hear your wedding style stories and opinions, so give us a shout and maybe even snag some epic swag from us. Cheers, fashionistas!

Hey there! In this episode, we're diving into the chaos and fun of a bachelorette trip that almost didn't happen.  Imagine finding the perfect mountain cabin with your friends, only to have the booking fall through last minute – VRBO nightmare, right? But don't worry, we got lucky with a backup plan that was even better!  Join us as we recount our themed nights, from Disco Rodeo to Romance Book Club, and the ridiculous fun that followed – think tattoos, dance-offs, and unexpected dragonfly romances.  Plus, we have a hilarious white elephant romance novel exchange that brought out some wild picks. Who knew romance reads could get so...unusual? Let's toast to friendships, unexpected twists, and the joy of shared adventures.  Can't wait to hear about your own bachelorette adventures and outrageous romance novel finds. Enjoy the laughs and cheers to more crazy memories!

Hey there, friends! Ready for some laughs and a taste of our craziest conversations yet? This week's episode dives into upcoming wedding plans, including our unique bachelorette trip with a twist!  Get the inside scoop on our no-partners-allowed getaway to a dreamy farmhouse with its own pool, where themed nights and unexpected surprises await. Plus, discover our unconventional approach to party planning, where pink, rosé, and hilarity fill the air!  But that's not all! We're having an open discussion about funny yet relatable moments, like using body parts as props, causing chaos, and the unfiltered chats that make friendships so special. Trust us, you'll want to be a part of this wild ride.

Hey there! Ready to dive into the spicy world of Hollywood gossip?  In this episode, we're buzzing about Anna Camp's latest romantic escapade that seems to be stirring quite the pot. You might remember her from 'Pitch Perfect' and 'True Blood,' but now she's hitting headlines for her new relationship with Jade, a stylist nearly 20 years her junior. Is love truly blind to age gaps, or is there more than meets the eye? Let's chat about those intriguing dynamics, Hollywood pressures, and power imbalances that have everyone talking. Cheers to navigating love's true crimes, one headline at a time!

Hey there! Welcome to another side-splitting episode of True Crimes Against Wine. Today, we're diving headfirst into the juicy details of the Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry saga. Ever wondered about their on-and-off romance? Or the story behind THAT paddleboard picture that Topher just can't get enough of? Well, look no further! Expect a rollercoaster of laughs as we veer off into hilarious tangents, from the mysterious mechanics of water sports to imagining the couple's daughter's accent. Topher spills the tea, or should we say, mineral water, all while keeping us on our toes. Plus, a cheeky look at celeb life, engagement ring drama, and Katy's quirky journey from California Girls to space explorer. Join us for a light-hearted and unfiltered chat that might just have you raising a glass to some "hard-hitting" news—Dan Rather style. Whether you're sipping mineral water or something stronger, this episode promises to entertain and maybe even make you blush a little. Cheers to that, and enjoy the ride!

Hey friends! In this episode, we're diving deep into the complexities of tipping culture in the United States. It's more than just a simple thank you for good service; it's a hotly debated topic that brings up questions about fair pay, corporate responsibility, and good old American capitalism.  Join us as we share laughs and stories from the service industry trenches. From the nuances of restaurant tipping to how much you should leave for your barista's killer coffee art, we're covering it all.  We even tackle those awkward moments when the check arrives, and you're left wondering if you're tipping too little, too much, or just enough. Let's navigate these waters together and figure out where we stand on the tipping spectrum!

Hey there, fellow true crime and wine enthusiasts!  Dive into this adventurous episode with Topher and I as we unravel our wild animal encounters that range from hilariously chaotic to heart-pounding moments. While recounting our tales, prepare for a few laughs, some unexpected twists, and a touch of suspense. And yes, there's a stingray involved in a story you won't soon forget! Plus, find out what happens when animal lovers cross paths with nature in unexpected ways, including a mountain lion's curious encounter. If you’re an animal lover or just enjoy a good story over a glass of wine, you’re in the right place! We even tackle why squirrels might be avoiding golf courses and take you through a scenic cruise adventure with a few animal cameos.  Pour yourself a glass, get comfy, and join us for some laughs, thrills, and maybe a little bit of nature-friendly advice. Cheers!

Hey there, wine lovers!  Ever stared at a glass of wine and wondered what to say about it? Join in as we dive into the basics of wine tasting, where flavor exploration becomes a fun, stress-free experience. Whether you're nosing a Pinot Noir or pondering the playfulness of a wine at a picnic, we've got the tips to guide you, complete with a handy cheat—oops! I mean, help sheet to make sense of it all. Discover how three simple flavors can unfold into a plethora of tasting notes that even make a waiter raise an eyebrow. This episode is about embracing the joy of wine—a journey from the nose to the glass with a splash of humor and a lot of discovery. Grab your glass, bring out the binder, and start your flavorful adventure with us. Cheers to learning, laughter, and, of course, wine!

Hey there! Dive into our latest episode as we chat about crafting fantastical and fun D&D campaigns you never knew you needed. From exploring the vibrant world under the sea with all its mythical creatures to discovering hidden realms within your mundane office space, we’ve got creative juices flowing. Join us as we brainstorm epic campaigns, including a thrilling podcast interruption leading to a mission of judge-like heroics, and navigating the treacherous court of King Henry VIII as one of his wives. Whether it’s hunting for sunken treasures or evading a historical king's wrath, our ideas are bound to spark your imagination. We also share how pop culture and classic elements can fuse to create unforgettable gaming experiences. So whether you’re a seasoned dungeon master or just dipping your toes in role-playing games, this chat will inspire your next adventure. Plus, we're excited to reveal some new swag we’ve got lined up for you! Don't miss out, and let's get those creative minds rolling! Cheers!

Hey friends! Welcome to another wild ride with "True Crime Against Wine." Today, Judge Rachel and Judge Topher spill the tea (or should I say wine?) on how climate change is shaking things up in the wine world!  Our buddy Noah's question takes us on a whirlwind tour of vineyard challenges, from awkward frosts to raging wildfires. It’s a bumpy ride for those grapes, and we’re here to share the highs and toasting lows these winemakers are facing. Ready to dive into what might just be the world's juiciest climate drama? Tune in, sip along, and maybe grab a bottle of your favorite vintage before it becomes as rare as a unicorn. Cheers to knowledge, resilience, and, of course, wine!

Hey there! Ever wondered what wine your favorite characters from Game of Thrones would sip on during their downtime? In this wild and witty episode, we're diving into just that with a fun sidebar conversation! Join us as we hilariously match the iconic personalities of Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, Cersei Lannister, and more to wines that capture their essence. Whether it's a cozy Pinot Noir for everyone's favorite brooding hero or a sharp Gruner-Veltliner for the fierce Mother of Dragons, there's something for every Westerosi palate. And we don't stop there! We chat about Tyrion's potential switch from wine aficionado to scotch sipper and even ponder what ancient wine would befit Drogon's fiery nature. It's all in good fun, so grab a glass, sit back, and let's toast to the Seven Kingdoms together!

DEFENDANT: The Sims EVIDENCE: Rex Hill Sims Valley Pinot Noir SCENE OF THE CRIME: Henford-on-Bagley and other locations -- Hey there, fellow wine and game enthusiasts! 🎉 Join us as we wrap up a delightful season of True Crime Against Wine in what can only be described as a bittersweet farewell (but fear not, we'll be back with even more surprises next season!). This episode, we're diving back into the world's top wine destination, Willamette Valley, and exploring why it's earned such high praise.   But that’s not all! We’re also putting The Sims in the hot seat, exploring its quirky history, and sharing hilarious personal tales from our gaming experiences. From battling unexpected events (like falling satellites!) to wooing with wizards, it's a fun rollercoaster ride. And, of course, our sidebars will continue over the summer - so keep those questions coming via email or any of our socials!   Pour yourself a glass of something fabulous and buckle up for an episode full of laughs, nostalgia, and a peek into what's brewing for Season Five. Until then, say cheers, ciao, and see you soon! 🥂

Hey there! Ready for a fun ride through the world of "Severance" with a glass in hand?  In this episode, Judge Topher takes on a quirky challenge by exploring the perfect beverage matches for both the 'innie' and 'outie' versions of your favorite characters from the hit series "Severance."  From Mark's whiskey melancholy to Helly R's rebellious margaritas, we dive deep into what makes each character tick—and sip! It's a mix of humor, deep dives, and a genuine love for both wine and "Severance." Whether you're a fan of the show or just love discovering the perfect drink for any occasion, you're in for a treat.  Join us for this unique blend of true crime intrigue and delightful beverage concoctions, and don't forget to share your thoughts or your own drink suggestions for your innie or outie self! Cheers!

DEFENDANT: Kevin Hart   EVIDENCE: Gran Coramino Cristalino Reposado Tequila (it is silver because it is clear, Fact Checker doesn't always know everything)   SCENE OF THE CRIME: Jalisco, Mexico -- Hello, friends! Welcome to another tantalizing episode of True Crimes Against Wine. Picture this—you’re stepping into our cozy podcast, where we love to escape the chaos of the world and unwind.   This time, we're diving into a spirited discussion as we savor some delightful tequila. And not just any tequila; it’s Kevin Hart’s very own Coramino Tequila. Oh yes, we’re doing it right!   In this episode, we banter about the unique traditions of tequila-making, explore some funny and awkward anecdotes from Kevin Hart's life, and sift through old scandals with the lightheartedness of enjoying a smooth, strong drink. Guffaw with us over comedic imprudence and celebrity escapades while sipping on divine margaritas that you’ll definitely want to try at home.   Whether you’re here for the wine wisdom, comedic interludes, or just to hear us babble about all things entertaining, you’re in the right place. So, grab your glass and tune in for a long, enjoyable escape with us!

Hey folks, welcome back to another chit-chat session with us! Today, we're diving deep into the swirling controversies surrounding celebrated author Neil Gaiman. The allegations are heavy, and we're here trying to make sense of consuming art from someone whose personal life has faced serious scrutiny. We explore the tough questions - can you truly separate an artist's work from their wrongdoings? It's a journey of personal choice in the art versus artist dilemma, and we truly believe in respecting individual paths as we try to navigate this tricky landscape. Join us as we share our thoughts, ponder the implications, and offer our heart-felt advice on supporting not just survivors but also the many others involved in artistic endeavors without compromising your own ethics. Let's keep this conversation going. We'd love to hear your thoughts and feelings over on our social media pages or our Gmail. Until next time, stay kind and keep questioning the world around you. Cheers!

DEFENDANT: White Lotus EVIDENCE: White Lotus Makgeolli SCENE OF THE CRIME: An Exclusive Resort Near You -- Hey friends! Welcome to another entertaining episode of True Crimes Against Wine. Grab a glass and join us as we whisk you away into the captivating world of the White Lotus – where luxury meets underhanded alliances and unexpected twists!   We’re diving into the latest season, exploring the picturesque settings from the heavenly coastlines of Thailand to the enchanting landscapes of Italy. It's a wild ride through wealth, secrets, and the fascinating drama that unfolds when some of the most flawed characters collide in paradise.   From the whirl of rich emotions to the depths of shocking betrayals (and yes, more of that seductive brotherly tension), you won't want to miss our sizzling takes and hilarious assessments. So, pop that cork and settle in for a juicy tale of hedonism, hilarity, and a hint of the sinister. Cheers to uncovering secrets over a glass – or two!

Welcome back, dear friends, to another hilarious episode of True Crimes Against Wine, where we dive into the world of snacks, accompanied by some unexpected and wild flavors! With our guest Hermes briefly making his mischievous presence known, we tackle Judge Rachel’s burning question from our listener, Mae, about favorite potato chips.Join us as we indulge in a spirited discussion of kettle-cooked versus ridged chips, reveal embarrassing late-night Dorito meals, and get surprised by some mind-bending chip flavors. Whether you're a fan of spicy jalapeño bites or classic Pringles crunch, there's something delightful (and a bit weird) in our delicious journey.Prepare yourself for a special tasting session featuring some risqué selections gifted by a cheeky listener, including chips with libidinous and "exotic" flavors. It's a snack-filled adventure loaded with laughs, confessions, and a touch of the unexpected. And remember, eat your chips responsibly!

DEFENDANT: Kylie MinogueEVIDENCE: Kylie ProseccoSCENE OF THE CRIME: Veneto, Italy/Melbourne, Australia--Hey there, mate! Join us as we uncork a delightful rosé Prosecco and dive into the bubbly world of Kylie Minogue. We get chatty about everything from Prosecco's fizz to pop sensation Kylie, and even manage to sprinkle in some fun pop culture tidbits. It's an easy-going, laugh-filled episode you won't want to miss! So grab a glass, get cozy, and let's have at it.

Hey there! Ready to dive into the delicious madness that is Cracker Barrel? We've got a fun episode lined up that’s all about nostalgia, the scrumptious joy of hash brown casserole, and even a little road trip down memory lane. Imagine a place where the fried okra is crunchy, the rocking chairs are ready for serious lounging, and you never quite beat the peg game but always give it a darn good shot.Join us as we chat about our favorite Cracker Barrel orders, the country store’s kitschy splendors, and a surprise gift that’s just as quirky as it is delightful. Whether you’re a lover of chicken and dumplings or a green bean aficionado, there’s something here for everyone. And hey, if you’ve got a favorite order or Cracker Barrel keepsake, share it with us! We’re all about connecting over good food and cozy vibes.So grab a snack, get comfy, and let’s have some fun!

DEFENDANT: Emily in ParisEVIDENCE: Lillet BlancSCENE OF THE CRIME: Paris-- Bonjour, mes amis! Dive into the delightful world of 'True Crimes Against Wine' where we take a stylish detour from our usual libations. Join us as we uncover the tantalizing truth behind aperitifs and their bitter companions, digestifs, with our special focus on the delightful Lillet Blanc.We reminisce about thrilling Parisian adventures while sipping our aperitif cocktails, discussing everything from Emilys in 'Emily in Paris' unforgettable fashion choices to learning why aperitifs like Lillet hold a treasured place in our hearts.This episode, filled with sparkling wit and laughter, effortlessly blends our love for wine, whimsy, and wonderful wardrobes. Don't miss out, because who wouldn't want to drink and look fabulous doing it?

Hey there, friend! Get ready to giggle as we unwrap a delightful email from Tina in Greenland. She charms us with tales of yo-yo prowess and poses a fun question that gets us all sharing our most useless, yet totally entertaining, skills. Spoiler: burping on command and NY Times crosswords might just make the cut! Join us for some laughs, hidden talents, and the joy of sharing stories across tundras.

DEFENDANT: Judge RachelEVIDENCE: A Broken Bottle of Manos Special Edition Clue Cabernet SauvignonSCENE OF THE CRIME: The Murder Shed-- Hey there. Welcome back to another episode of True Crimes Against Wine! This week, we're diving into the mystery edition of our beloved podcast, where the unknown reigns supreme. Will we stay on topic? Who knows! But one thing's for sure, the journey will be full of laughs and tangents! Today, we're recording from my loft with the windows open, enjoying a beautiful day with scrumptious soup simmering on the stove and a charcuterie board right beside us. If you're into ASMR of munching, this episode might just be your jam. If not, maybe hit the skip button and roll your dice elsewhere. With our usual fact-checker MIA, we've got little baby Hermes stepping in. He's currently living it up in NYC, while we dive deep into the world of mystery, murder, and wine. Remember Clue, the classic board game? Well, we're unboxing a specially-themed wine bottle inspired by it, complete with wine-related weapons and Art Deco vibes. Perfect for anyone who loves a good pour paired with a puzzling evening! So, whether it's dissecting the hallmark of '80s mystery movies or exploring the sophisticated chaos of the Clue legacy, we've got it all uncorked for you. Don't forget to check our TikTok for an inside look at the fantastic Clue wine unboxing moment!

Hey there, lovely listeners! Welcome back to another fun-filled episode of True Crime Against Wine. This time, we're diving into the whimsical world of wedding planning - from the exciting (and sometimes exhausting) hunt for the perfect dress to the delightful details of Topher's attire. Join us as we share laughs and stories about choosing the perfect bridal gown with a colorful veil twist, finding autumn-inspired accessories, and turning every moment into a celebration. Whether you're on the brink of wedded bliss or reminiscing about your own special day, this episode is packed with giggles, advice, and a dash of wine-induced twirls. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever afters!

DEFENDANT: RuPaulEVIDENCE: House of Love Canned CocktailsSCENE OF THE CRIME: The WerqRoom--Hey there! Ready for some fun? In this episode, we step away from the usual somber crime stories and dive into the vibrant world of drag with a side of canned cocktails. Join us as we explore the quirky and colorful House of Love cocktails by none other than RuPaul! We'll chat about the delightful nuances of each drink, from pomegranate lime vodka to a passion fruit margarita that, well, might not be for everyone.Buckle up as we venture into the history of drag, from its ancient roots to its pivotal moment under the spotlight thanks to icons like RuPaul. Whether you're a fan of RuPaul's Drag Race or just curious about why canned cocktails are the rage, this episode's got a little something for everyone. So, pour yourself a drink, sit back, and enjoy the lively chat!

Hey there, welcome back to another fun-filled episode of True Crimes! Ever wondered what it’s like when a mother and daughter hit the road together, tuning into their favorite podcast? Well, today’s episode is packed with delightful tales and hilarious moments featuring our beloved listener, Barbara Ann!  Join us as Judge Rachel spills the beans about whether Barbara Ann knows her status as our podcast's legendary listener. It's a mix of mystery, motherly love, and downright funny misunderstandings!  From curious questions about memorizing episodes to navigating the intricacies of seasons versus episodes, Barbara Ann's insights will keep you entertained and chuckling all the way through.  Ever tried helping to pack up outdated medical journals or expired pill bottles? Topher shares the ultimate Barbara Ann moving experience that'll have you rolling with laughter. With a blend of love, laughter, and a little bit of chaos, this episode showcases just how special and quirky our loved ones can be.  So grab your favorite drink and join us for some heartwarming laughter. And if you have your own quirky stories to share, we’d love to hear them! Send them our way, because here at True Crimes Against Wine, everyone’s tales deserve their moment in the spotlight. Cheers!

TRIGGER WARNING: SA, please take care of your mental health. We value you and don't want to cause any harm through the things we discuss. -- DEFENDANT: Outland EVIDENCE: Manos Outlander Sauvignon Blanc SCENE OF THE CRIME: The Scottish Highlands -- Hey there, my friend! Welcome to our latest episode, where we take a fun and sometimes intense ride through the world of Outlander. 🚀 We're deep diving into all the juicy details and complex relationships that've got us hooked on this time-traveling adventure!   This week, we uncork some thoughts on everything from quantum physics to Scottish history, and debate the realism of Outlander's storyline alongside our trusty sleep-aid assistant, Hermes. 🐾 Whether it's sharing a laugh or unpacking some heavier themes, we're all about creating a cozy space for these conversations.   As we sip on some wine, we explore the different layers (just like a fine onion) of the show's characters, the lavish costumes, and how they age those kilts just right. So, grab a glass, get comfy, and join us for a chat! Cheers! 🍷

Hey there, welcome to another thrilling episode of True Crimes Against Wine! In this spooky season special, we're diving into the hypothetical chaos of The Purge. With a mix of humor and strategy, we chat about potential self-defense weapons and the hilarity of having to work as a DoorDasher during such a wild event. From debating the merits of a trusty rake versus a solid two-by-four, to the ridiculous concept of leaving 'please take one' notes during the purge, this episode is all about survival with a twist. And, of course, we question why people aren't using the Purge to create some positive societal change. Join us for a laugh as we explore these outrageous scenarios, debate obscure questions, and, as always, share a drink while keeping it real. Whether you're here for the giggles or the wine, there's something in this episode for everyone. Cheers, and happy spooky season!

DEFENDANT: Dungeons and DragonsEVIDENCE: Quest's End Warlock WhiskeySCENE OF THE CRIME: Your Imagination -- Welcome to our latest episode where we dive into the magical realm of Dungeons & Dragons, exploring the adventures and misadventures it offers. Get comfortable as we discuss the nuances of creating characters, rolling dice for destiny, and whether you should add a twinkle or shine to your D&D persona. We also indulge in the tale of Matthew Lillard's whiskey creation, Quest's End, and its enticing flavors that might stave off scurvy, or maybe just transport you to a ship's deck. Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or simply D&D-curious, this episode promises a journey through taste and imagination. Join us as we banter about our experiences, mishaps, and the unexpected hilarity that ensues when fantasy meets reality. It's an epic quest full of laughter, insights, and the reminder that every critical fail can turn into an unforgettable story. Cheers!

Hey there! In this fun and lighthearted episode, we're diving into the charmingly absurd world of pet spoiling.  Whether it's buying wigs for dogs or getting those must-have squeaky toys, there's no limit to how far we'll go for our furry friends! Join us as we chat about our most ridiculous purchases for our beloved pooches, complete with hilariously cute costumes and unexpected toy stories.  From Halloween-themed outfits to plushy hoodies, discover what makes our dogs' wardrobes and toyboxes so uniquely adorable.We absolutely love doting on our pets, and hey, they deserve all the love and silliness we can give! So grab your favorite drink, sit back, and enjoy a hearty laugh as we share our tales of spoiled pets and whimsy. Cheers!

DEFENDANT: Frida Kahlo EVIDENCE: Cigar Box Cabernet Sauvignon, Frida Edition SCENE OF THE CRIME: Maipo Valley, Chile -- Hey there, true crime aficionados! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Frida Kahlo, an iconic artist who painted her own path despite all odds. We’ll chat about her tumultuous relationship with fellow artist Diego Rivera, her unapologetic embrace of her unique beauty, and how her unyielding spirit came to symbolize Mexican cultural pride.   Join us as we sip on a delightful wine that pairs perfectly with tales of revolutionary art and passionate affairs. We’ll explore her creative process, her struggles with health and heartbreak, and how her legacy continues to inspire generations.   So grab a glass, settle in, and let’s toast to Frida — the artist who defied conventions and captivated the world. Cheers!

Hey there, and welcome back to our spooky shenanigans at True Crime Against Wine Sidebar! 🎃 In this episode, we're diving into the world of haunted houses, but with a twist. Ever wondered what kind of haunted house your friends might design just for you? Or how about your fiancée? It's a wild ride of fears and phobias coming to life in ways you never imagined!   Join us as we chat about snakes dropping from ceilings, haunted museums, and even some jumpy moments for those who startle easily. We explore the fine art of designing the perfect terrifying experience tailored for friends, fiancés, and maybe even a certain billionaire or two. 😉   So grab a comfy seat, maybe a glass of wine, and let's get into the spirit of things with some laughs and a few chills along the way. And remember, time's just a construct, so spooky season happens whenever we want it to. Cheers! 🥂

DEFENDANT: George R.R. Martin EVIDENCE: House of the Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon SCENE OF THE CRIME: Westeros -- Welcome back, my fellow wine aficionados and Westeros wanderers! In today’s True Crimes Against Wine, we're popping the cork on a special edition for all you Game of Thrones and House of Dragon fans. Picture this: the lush vineyards of Oregon meet the mystery of the Iron Throne. Are you intrigued yet? We’re diving deep into the heart of the Willamette region, dissecting its finest Pinot Noir while musing over what makes this grape the 'heartbreak' of wines. Expect nothing less than a silky, seductive sip with just a whisper of vanilla and a gentle caress of French oak. Sounds like a perfect smooch in a glass, right? Stay tuned as we fumble our way through tasting notes, discuss the athletic prospects of netball (British listeners, isn’t this a hoot?), and, oh yes, our vigorous debate on costumed characters from the Seven Kingdoms! Whether you’re more of a Stark, Lannister, or Targaryen (or like us, just trying to not spill the wine), there’s something in today’s episode for every type of fan.

Hey pals! In this episode, we dive into an unforgettable day at Atlanta’s Pride Parade. Our first-timer shares their excitement about embracing the vibrant, joyful atmosphere while soaking in the diverse community spirit. 🌈   Listen in as we chat about everything from the heartwarming moments with angelic protectors shielding us from hate to the quirky charm of our local animal rescue puppies strutting their stuff. And yes, we also discuss the delightful fashion choices that kept us cool and swag-ready. 😉   Whether you’re a Pride veteran or a curious newbie, this invite is yours to join us next year and experience the love, acceptance, and fun firsthand. Until then, cheers and hugs! 🥂

Welcome to the companion Sidebar to our special Tophermas Celine Dion episode! In this magical rendition, our Judges have just finished recording, so to put it frankly, they are pretty lit. So why not record them answering musical trivia for your entertainment? That's right; we have more bad singing and hilarity for you! Consider this our holiday gift to you! Cheers, loves!

DEFENDANT: CELINE DION!!!EVIDENCE: Domaine Delaporte Sancerre, Loire Valley, FRSCENE OF THE CRIME: The Universe -- *DISCLAIMER* This episode includes cringe-worthy segments of terrible singing. If you have sensitive ears (or stomachs) please be advised.   Happy Birthday, Judge Topher!!! That's right, it is Tophermas Day! It's all downhill from here for the rest of December. BUT to celebrate the season, we are drinking our fanciest wine yet in honor of your favorite Judge's Fairy God-Diva, the greatest singer in the world, the incomparable Celine Marie Claudette Dion! Join us as we deep dive into the life of this beloved icon, from young ingenue to global superstar. Aaaaand... Because it is the most wonderful day of the year, be sure to check out the special Sidebar "Companion Episode" we so graciously gifted you all, set to air on Christmas Day! *SPOILER ALERT* We were already drunk when we started recording, so you are guaranteed to have a lot of fun listening to us make absolute fools of ourselves! You're welcome! 😆Cheers, ciao, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOPHER!!!

DEFENDANT: The Wonderful World of OzEVIDENCE: Manos Yellow Brick Road Sauvignon BlancSCENE OF THE CRIME: Munchkinland, duh.--Let us be glad! Let us be grateful! Let us rejoicify that drunkenness could subdue... being boring? Yes, dear listeners, Good News! We are gracing you with a surprise bonus episode this holiday season. What is this feeling? Something bad? Goodness knows, no! We merely want to expressify our gratitution to you all! In this special episode, we will take dancing through life behind the scenes of L. Frank Baum's kaleidoscopic world and the creations it has led to. The inside scoop is sure to make you popular, even if only for one short day. I would drop some spoilers, but I'm not that girl! This thrillifying episode has us exploring new heights as we defy gravity. Thank you festivating with us! Cheers, my pretties!

DEFENDANT: Dolly Parton EVIDENCE: Dolly Chardonnay SCENE OF THE CRIME: Sevierville, Tennessee -- Howdy, darlin's! In this long awaited episode, our Judges examine the voluptuous past and bodacious present of America's Queen, the one and only Dolly Parton. From her humble roots to her rise to stardom, her glamorous image to her generous spirit, we have all the inside scoops! Ever wonder where she got her distinctive style? Or who her husband is and how they make their relationship work? And what about any dark secrets she harbors? Heck, everybody has a couple skeletons in their closet! Well just tune right on in, settle back with a sipple, and let us tell you all about it!   And don't forget to reach out to us at True Crimes Against Wine on TikTok, Gmail, Instagram, and Facebook!   Cheers, y'all!

Hey there! Welcome back to another exciting episode of True Crimes Against Wine. We've got a juicy one for you today, as we dive into my recent trip to the beautiful wine country of Oregon. It was quite the adventure, filled with unexpected surprises, a little bit of drama, and some unforgettable moments.From reuniting with old friends at a beloved winery to a rather infamous encounter over a $40 steak tartare, my trip had its highs and lows. Discover what it’s really like to search for the world’s best steak tartare and how to handle a not-so-great restaurant experience like a pro!And, of course, no trip is complete without a dash of history and culture - join me as we explore Portland's Chinese Museum and breathtaking gardens. Through it all, it was a trip that left me feeling refreshed and full of stories to share.So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, sit back and enjoy as I recount the memorable tales of my travels. And hey, don't forget to share your own stories of justified culinary “Karens” – we've all been there!Cheers!