Wine Smarter Drink Better
1,000 Years in the Tuscan Vines — The Andrea Contucci Interview
This month Just the Sip takes you to the highest point of Montepulciano to visit a cellar that has produced wine for over a millennium. Built in 1517, the Palazzo Contucci stands as a monument to a family that has weathered wars, pestilence, and global change by choosing to never give up on their craft.
Host Norma Normington speaks with Andrea Contucci about the values that hold his family together and the 3.5-year journey from harvest to market for their celebrated wines. From the technical nuances of aging in diverse oak barrels to the personal decision to modernizing a noble legacy, this interview explores what it truly means to be a steward of history. Featured wines for this episode include the Contucci Classico, MulinVecchio, and Riserva.
Video link will be live 01 March - stay tuned!
Feb 2026: Master Every Pour with 12 World-Class Experts ✨
Wine Smarter. Drink Better.
Now that January is behind us, it’s time to reset. The Just The Sip team has curated a "Masterclass" compilation featuring a year’s worth of impactful, bite-sized wisdom from 12 of the world-class wine experts we interviewed in 2025.
This is your 2026 roadmap to drinking with confidence. We’ve cut through the pretension to bring you the tips that actually matter—from mastering the "whisper" of a perfectly opened bottle to insider secrets on professional cellar storage. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, these insights will empower you to choose, pour, and enjoy every glass with self-assurance.
The “Grandfather” of Chianti: A Historic Sip with Barone Francesco Ricasoli
Ever wondered about the history behind your favorite glass of Chianti? Find out in this historic episode! Join Norma for a rare conversation with Barone Francesco Ricasoli—the 32nd-generation "Grandfather of Chianti." We talk about his family's thousand-year legacy, their secrets to Chianti Classico, and how you can experience it all in person by visiting the iconic Castello di Brolio in Italy.
The Sip, the Story, and the Sparkle
Riddle me this: German Sparkling?
Join Norma in Heilbronn, Germany, for an effervescent chat with viniculturist and winemaker Peter Albrecht!
We uncork the story of their family's bubbly German Sekt, including his special Crémant; even catch a demonstration of sparkling wine riddling.
If you're enjoying the sips of knowledge and fun, please Like and Subscribe for more delicious content!❤️🍷
Tuscan Soul. Modern Style. Handcrafted Detail. 🍷💎
At Just The Sip, we believe luxury is meant to be lived in. We’ve partnered with DelBrenna to bring you the same artisan-crafted jewelry and wine goblets seen on our show—handcrafted in Italy for those who live life with intention.
As a special gift to our community, use code NORMA15 for 15% off their stunning collections (excluding 18k). Beyond the glass, DelBrenna’s artisans specialize in the art of the gift, creating custom jewelry tailored to your unique story—perfect for any occasion or a well-deserved treat for yourself.
Ketcham Estate: The Art of the Perfect Pairing
Elevate your daily table with the refined elegance of Ketcham Estate. Nestled in the heart of the Russian River Valley, this boutique winery produces award-winning wines that define true merit—none more so than the silky, sophisticated Allie’s Reserve Pinot Noir.
Allie’s Reserve is a graceful expression of Sonoma’s finest fruit, offering a depth that turns any meal into an event. It is the absolute perfection when paired with a premium, ranch-to-table cut like the Prime Rib from Podunk’s Ranch. Together, they create a dining experience that rivals the world’s best steakhouses, right in your own home.
Exclusive Just The Sip Offer: Use code NORMA20 at checkout for 20% OFF these exceptional releases. Allie’s Reserve isn't just a wine; it’s a standard for your most meaningful meals.
Podunk’s Ranch: Premium Ranch-to-Table Beef
The foundation of a great pairing starts with the best ingredients. At Podunk’s Ranch, the focus is on quality you can taste—providing premium, sustainably raised beef that brings the ranch-to-table experience directly to your kitchen.
Whether you are searing a Ribeye to rival your favorite steakhouse or looking for the perfect cut to complement a glass of Ketcham Estate Pinot Noir, Podunk’s offers the merit and flavor that sophisticated home cooks demand. These cuts aren't just for special occasions; they are the heart of our 365 Days of Delicious Pairings.
Exclusive Just The Sip Offer: Use code NORMA10 for freebies with your order! Visit the shop to see how the right cut of beef can elevate your next pour.
The Sipster Travel Shop: Cruise & Carry-On Ready
Stop compromising on your wine experience just because you’re on the move. These are my "Rebel-approved" travel essentials—reliable, lightweight, and compact enough to fit in your carry-on. From TSA-friendly tools to the gear that keeps my DelBrenna goblets safe, this is everything you need for the high seas and beyond.
Please note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 🍷🧳
Norma’s Test Kitchen: The "Just the Sip" Essentials
Behind every one of my 365 Days of Delicious Pairings is a set of tools I trust implicitly. Whether I’m searing a steak in my All-Clad pans, using my GreenPan collection for a quick healthy meal, or just finding the perfect glass to elevate tonight’s takeout or leftovers—these are my daily essentials. I’ve curated these reliable, durable tools to help you create great pairings in your own kitchen, no matter if you're cooking from scratch or just opening a container.
Please note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 🍷
The "Rebel Tech" Bundle: High-Quality Gear, Zero Fuss
Ever wonder how I film my interviews at wine symposiums or capture those perfect "pour shots" in the kitchen? This is my Rebel Tech bundle—the reliable, compact, and lightweight equipment I trust to bring Just the Sip to life.
I’m a firm believer that you don't need a Hollywood studio to share your passion. I’ve hand-selected these "carry-on friendly" mics, lights, and tripods because they are easy to use and durable enough for life on the road. Whether you're a novice creator or just want to document your own wine journey, this is the gear that gets the job done without weighing you down.
Please note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 🍷
About Just The Sip
Philosophy
Just The Sip: Tongasmic Wine Exploration & Adventure with Norma informs normal people who want to learn more about wine. We hope to empower everyday people to make the best, most educated wine decisions. Dedication to curiosity, humor, selfless service, transparency, and authenticity drives this show.
RIddle me this...
Norma is on an exciting adventure to expand her knowledge by exploring the wonderful world of wine in a fun and relaxed environment and sharing that with you; buckle in for this ride! The show creates a fresh and novel resource for wine appreciation highlighting experts and industry leaders who enthusiastically share their unique insider insights at a beginners level.
About Norma
About Norma
Having served over 20 honorable years of service, Norma is a retired, service-disabled military member who has always had a taste for wine (watch episode 1). Just the Sip is as much for Norma as it is for you, so have courage to provide positive feedback on your wine journey and which wine topics interest you. Thanks for watching and Wine Smarter, Drink Better!
