From working alongside Thomas Keller at Bouchon and French Laundry in Napa to whipping up delicacies for Heads of State in Ghana, his amazing journey has landed him in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  This accomplished chef and sommelier dishes about everything from gardening to cooking with local ingredients, and wine pairings.

For lovers of Tequila, Mezcal and Sotol - Charles Simmons discusses Bacanora, a little-known agave spirit just entering the United States.  Be among the first to learn about this liquor by listening to this podcast.

If you think the only hot shot mixology bars in the USA are on the coasts, think again. Barman Tim Rabior from Sanctuaria in St. Louis, Missouri chats about why theirs was nominated for Best Cocktail Menu at Tales of the Cocktail, last year, and the thriving mixology scene in the Midwest.  So, suck it big city sipping snobbery!

Natalie met up with Jason Williams in New Zealand, during the 42 Below vodka 2011 cocktail competition, in which Jason was a judge.  Williams had the honor of being named the best bartender in Australia – which incidentally is not just a country – but a whole freakin continent. Listen to find out how this down-to-earth- Aussie received such an accolade and about that blue cocktail craze.

This must-listen episode is for anyone who loves to entertain with originality. Natalie tastes and tipples with Barrie Lynn - The Cheese Impresario in Hollywood. The renkown cheese expert delights with delectable bites that pair incredibly well with good old Kentucky bourbon. Sure, cheese and wine is still fine… if you like being predictable.

Bill York, founder of the culinary-focused Bitter End Bitters discusses the spice and flavor in his line of artisanal bitters, made in Santa Fe.  His Mexican Mole, Jamaican Jerk, Memphis Barbeque and the newly launched Curry are but a few flavors inspiring Natalie and others in their cocktail creativity these days.  Listen to hear more about bitters, and sweeten your mixology skills.

When we think of France, we picture an accordion playing as we nibble on baguettes, stroll down a charming cobblestone street and sigh a romantic ooh-la-la as we pass each dapper looking Maurice Chevalier look-alike. Wrong. Get your butt into the 21st Century and break all cliches.  Not only is France producing a gin right in the heart of its most prestigious wine-growing region – but the company behind G Vine is also putting out a liqueur and a tequila.  Sacre bleu.  Listen to this podcast to learn more about the grapes falling off the G Vine and making sweet love to the juniper berries in Cognac.

The flavors of the Mediterranean have long dominated taste buds of foodies everywhere. While living near Barcelona, Natalie immersed herself in the local food, culture – and, yes – wine and spirits! Gin Mare is infused with the tastes of the region – herbs, olives and, of course, juniper. Take a listen to put yourself on the cutting edge of a new brand, soon to expand into the United States.

Named one of the top 20 restaurants in the country by Gourmet Magazine, Citronelle is the place where celebrities and Heads-of-State (yes, even Michelle and Barack) punctuate special occasions.  Chef Richard is one of the most creative, cheeky, very French and oh-so-Michel talents in modern cuisine.  This podcast will give you a peek as to why one of his successful cookbooks is aptly named Happy in the Kitchen.

One of my favorite mixologist / bartenders in the City of Angels dishes on cocktails and bartending at hotspot cocktail bar, the Roger Room.  He recounts his journey from Australia to the United States, one drink at a time, and how he would initiate an everyday drinker into a cocktail enthusiast.  If you are an aspiring barman, or visiting Los Angeles, this episode is for you.