Wine, Power, and Climate: A Deep Dive with Meg Bernhard
Episode Overview
Wine reflects cultural and power dynamics, affecting its production and consumption. Climate change impacts vineyards worldwide, altering wine's taste and production viability. Gender inequality persists in winemaking, with barriers for women and minorities. Wine tasting notes often reflect class and cultural biases. Understanding wine involves both ecological and structural knowledge.
"Wine is extremely subjective and it feels limiting to rank wines based on numbers."
Ever wondered what it takes to understand the complex relationship between wine and power? Meg Bernhard's book, "Wine," published by Bloomsbury, dives into the fascinating interplay of culture, addiction, and environmental impact tied to this ancient beverage. In this engaging podcast episode, host Miranda Melcher chats with Bernhard about her journey from a college student who drank cheap wine to a connoisseur deeply invested in the nuances of winemaking.
Bernhard shares her experiences working in small vineyards in Spain, learning the art of wine production while uncovering the power dynamics that shape the industry. From gender inequality in winemaking to the environmental challenges posed by climate change, Bernhard's insights are both eye-opening and relatable. You'll hear about the dual epistemologies of wine—structural and ecological—and how these influence everything from taste to production.
The episode also explores how wine can serve as a record keeper of climatic changes, with droughts and wildfires leaving their mark on the final product. Bernhard's personal anecdotes make this conversation a compelling listen, as she discusses her own evolving relationship with wine and the broader implications for society. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or someone curious about the cultural significance of everyday objects, this episode offers plenty to ponder.
What drives someone to explore the world of wine so deeply? And how can understanding its complexities help us navigate our own lives? Tune in for an enriching dialogue that blends storytelling with scholarly insight.