Episode Details

Host: Warren Buchholz, Jazz Brand Manager, WUSF

Guests:

Rita Batiste – Sommelier / Wine Attendant, Piccolo Buco

Alex – Brand Manager, The Zest

Location: Piccolo Buco, Tampa, FL

In this special on-location episode of Studio Sessions, WUSF Jazz Brand Manager Warren Buchholz sits down with Sommelier Rita Batiste at Piccolo Buco in Tampa to explore the sensory connection between classic jazz albums and carefully selected wines. Each pairing is designed to mirror the mood, texture, and emotional depth of iconic jazz recordings, blending music appreciation with wine education in a relaxed, conversational setting.

Jazz and wine share the same language—emotion, structure, improvisation, and personal taste. There is no “right” pairing, only what resonates with the listener and drinker.

Album & Wine Pairings

🍾 Thelonious Monk –  Monk's Dream  →  Camille Brilliant Champagne (France)

🍷 Miles Davis –  Kind of Blue →  Petite Sirah

🍓 Oscar Peterson –  Night Train →  Strawberry Rhubarb Spritzy Sangria

🍷 Nina Simone –  Gifted and Black →  Vin Velouté Wine

🍷 Frank Sinatra –  My Way →  Super Tuscan Blend

🍾 Ella Fitzgerald –  Like Someone in Love →  Riesling

🍷 Dave Brubeck –  Time Out →  Cabernet Sauvignon & Zinfandel Blend

Recorded by: Natalie Jarrin