In this episode of Five Questions, Billy sits down with Jochen Michalski, Founder and CEO of Cork Supply, one of the world’s leading suppliers of premium natural corks, barrels, and closures to wineries around the globe.

From founding the company in California in 1981 to expanding across Europe, Australia, and South Africa, Jochen shares insights from over four decades at the intersection of craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation. He discusses the future of cork, the challenge of declining wine consumption, and why he believes de-alcoholized wines miss the mark, plus, a memorable (and very expensive) wine experience in the Maldives.

🔑 Episode Highlights

The founding and global growth of Cork Supply
Sustainability and the remarkable life cycle of natural cork
The biggest issue facing the wine industry today: consumption
Why Jochen isn’t convinced by de-alcoholized wines
A surprising $2,500 wine story from the Maldives

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 — Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast
00:19 — Welcome to Five Questions
00:44 — Interview with Jochen Michalski Begins
00:52 — Jochen’s Role in the Wine Industry
02:08 — Biggest Issue Facing the Wine World
03:15 — The Truth About Natural Corks
04:38 — Dislike for De-Alcoholized Wines
05:53 — A Memorable Wine Experience
08:20 — Conclusion and Thanks

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com.

Cheers!

Five Questions with Jochen Michalski - Founder & CEO of Cork Supply