In Part 2 of this special conversation on Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard continues his discussion with Max Kast, Director of BOND Winery.

The conversation picks up as a new bottle is opened, setting the stage for a deeper look into how wine brings people together. Marcus and Max explore the role wine plays in building community, creating connection, and fostering meaningful conversation across cultures and experiences.

Max also shares insight into the philosophy and craftsmanship behind BOND Winery, offering a closer look at what makes it such a special and respected name in the wine world.

This episode is about connection, culture, and the shared moments that make wine more than just what’s in the glass.

Pour a glass and join the conversation. 🍷

In Episode 9 of Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard welcomes Max Kast, Director of BOND Winery and one of the few Master Sommeliers in the world, for the first part of a special two-part conversation.

Max shares his journey to becoming a Master Sommelier — a path defined by discipline, deep knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to the craft of wine. He gives insight into what it takes to reach the highest level in the wine world, and the passion that drives him to keep learning.

Marcus and Max also talk about the importance of building relationships with winemakers and understanding the stories behind each bottle. From vineyard to glass, Max explains how wine is more than just a beverage — it’s a reflection of people, place, and experience.

This episode is about mastery, curiosity, and the stories that bring wine to life.

Pour a glass and join the conversation. 🍷

In Episode 8 of Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard welcomes French educator and wine influencer Katie Melchior, better known as The French Wine Tutor.

Joining us at The Rabbit Hole, Katie shares how she built a platform dedicated to making French wine more approachable — including helping people confidently pronounce French wine regions, grapes, and terminology.

Marcus and Katie dive into her journey into the wine world, her travels throughout France, and her passion for discovering smaller producers where she can connect directly with the people behind the wine. She explains why those personal connections are at the heart of truly understanding what’s in your glass.

This episode is about curiosity, confidence, and breaking down barriers so more people can enjoy and engage with wine.

Pour a glass and join the conversation. 🍷

In Part 2 of this special conversation on Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard continues his discussion with restaurateur and wine expert Anthony Guerra, owner of Tutti Pizza, Oakwood Pizza Box, Capital Pizza Box, and Saint Pierre Wine Shop.

In this episode, Marcus and Anthony dive deeper into the work ethic required to build and sustain a successful business. Anthony shares the realities of running restaurants and wine programs, and the daily discipline needed to maintain excellence in hospitality.

Marcus and Anthony also draw parallels between the dedication required in the restaurant world and the preparation it takes to build a successful basketball team. From long hours to constant attention to detail, both fields demand commitment, leadership, and trust in the people around you.

This episode is about passion, preparation, and the drive to pursue excellence—whether on the court or in the restaurant.

Pour a glass and join the conversation. 🍷

In Episode 7 of Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard welcomes restaurateur and wine expert Anthony Guerra for the first installment of a special two-part series.

Anthony is the owner of Tutti Pizza, Oakwood Pizza Box, Capital Pizza Box, and Saint Pierre Wine Shop, and has built a reputation for creating spaces where great food, great wine, and community come together.

In Part 1, Anthony sits down with Marcus to talk about how he first found his way into the restaurant and wine world, the mentors and experiences that shaped his career, and the philosophy that guides his work today. He also shares what the role of a sommelier truly means to him — not just selecting wine, but serving as a guide who helps guests discover and enjoy the experience that best fits their table.

This episode is all about passion, hospitality, and the craft of creating unforgettable moments through food and wine.

Pour a glass and join the conversation. 🍷

In Episode 6 of Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard welcomes longtime friend, John Henson — Carolina Basketball legend, former NBA player, and now sports broadcaster.

Marcus and John take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about their years playing together at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the brotherhood formed during their time in Chapel Hill, and the experiences that helped shape their careers on and off the court.

The conversation also turns to the evolving wine culture in the NBA, as John shares how players around the league have embraced wine as a way to unwind, connect, and build camaraderie. Along the way, Marcus and John reflect on the years of friendship they’ve shared — from college basketball to life after the game.

This episode is full of stories, laughter, and the kind of conversation that happens when old friends sit down together with a glass of wine.

Pour something you enjoy and join us. 🍷

In Episode 5 of Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard sits down with friend, mentor, and business leader Vaughn Moore, Chairman and CEO of AIT Worldwide Logistics and a 2025 Distinguished Alumnus honoree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Marcus and Vaughn talk about how meaningful relationships are built — often around a shared table and a glass of wine — and how those connections can shape both personal and professional life. Vaughn shares stories from his career in business, the lessons he’s learned through leadership, and why mentorship and investing in people have always been central to his success.

They also discuss his commitment to charitable work and his continued support of the university community, along with a more personal side: how fatherhood has influenced his perspective, priorities, and purpose.

This episode is about leadership, gratitude, and the importance of taking time to connect with others.

Pour a glass and join the conversation. 🍷

In Episode 4 of Wine With Friends, host Marcus Ginyard welcomes hospitality legend Gary Crunkleton, founder and owner of The Crunkleton in Chapel Hill.

Gary shares his journey into the spirits and restaurant industry, the lessons he learned along the way, and the passion that led him to create one of the most beloved bar experiences in the area. More than just cocktails, Gary explains his philosophy on hospitality — why a great bar is really about people, conversation, and genuine connection.

Throughout the episode, he tells unforgettable stories from behind the bar, showing how meaningful relationships can grow from a simple drink and a welcoming environment. This is a conversation about craftsmanship, community, and the art of making others feel at home.

Pour a glass and pull up a chair — you’ll feel like you’re sitting at the bar with us. 🍷