Why Panama’s Wine Scene is a Shocking Surprise with Charlie Leary

Wine Talks with Paul K.

How does a country with no native wine culture become a new destination for wine lovers? Panama is showing us exactly how.

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by wine writer and historian Charlie Leary to discuss how Panama is quickly emerging as a wine destination despite its non-traditional wine-producing background. With a growing middle class and a thriving digital culture, the country’s wine scene is booming—driven by imports from Spain and South America.

Today, Leary takes us through Central America’s evolving wine market, shares his experience managing vineyards in Spain, and discusses how wine education is transforming places like Panama.

We also explore the balance between producing premium wines while catering to entry-level consumers, as well as the challenges posed by climate change.

Curious how wine markets evolve globally?

Let’s dive right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Charlie Leary’s wine journey in Panama (01:20)

Panama's booming wine culture (04:12)

Managing vineyards in Spain’s Andalusia region (08:13)

How Charlie Leary got into the wine business (13:05)

The premiumization trend in wine and market trends (17:32)

Leary’s insights on wine innovation and trade (23:12)

Bordeaux wine history and its modern impact (28:10)

Entry-level vs. premium Bordeaux wines (38:17)

Emerging wine regions to watch out for (41:47)

Leary’s book on global wine education and scholarships (47:45)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Charlie Leary’s website for more information: https://www.charlieleary.com/

👉Grab a copy of his book, Leary’s Global Wineology: https://www.charlieleary.com/globalwineology.html

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸What Makes Château Cheval Blanc a PREMIER Winemaker with Pierre-Olivier Clouet: https://youtu.be/ANZISp-XFvc

🔸"The Audacity To Hire A Woman”—Says Veronique Sanders of Cht. Haut Bailly: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/the-audacity-to-hire-a-woman-says-veronique-sanders-of-cht-haut-bailly/

Let’s Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

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Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

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