Cabernet Queens

In this episode of Cabernet Queens, Matt is away, so Deb is joined by her best friend Jay to relive their unforgettable girls' holiday to Crete. As they taste a mystery wine, the conversation drifts from airport Prosecco and luxury boutique hotels to sourdough starters, delayed flights and a memorable encounter with cabin crew over some rather cheeky miniature bottles of wine. Full of laughter, friendship and travel mishaps, this episode perfectly captures the spirit of Cabernet Queens, great wine, brilliant stories and plenty of laughs along the way.Key TakeawaysFriendship Makes the Holiday: Deb and Jay reflect on why travelling with the right person makes all the difference. Their shared sense of humour, relaxed attitude and ability to laugh through every setback turned an ordinary holiday into an unforgettable one.The Best Trips Don't Need a Busy Itinerary: Rather than filling every day with excursions, the pair embraced slow travel—relaxing by the pool, enjoying exceptional food, reading books and making the most of their boutique hotel.Travel Doesn't Always Go to Plan: Flight delays, airport chaos and an unexpected overnight hotel stay could have ruined the trip home, but choosing to laugh instead of complain became part of the adventure.Key Moments"We just laughed the whole holiday—it wasn't just the place, it was the friendship.""Why go anywhere else when the hotel had everything we wanted?""We were delayed for nearly 14 hours, but somehow we still found ourselves laughing.""It's a Merlot... from California! We actually got it right!"About the HostsMatt Morgan is a passionate travel specialist committed to turning your dream holidays into reality. Offering expert, impartial advice and 24/7 support, Matt ensures every step of your journey is stress-free. From crafting itineraries across all continents to arranging weddings, honeymoons, cruises, and city breaks, he handles every detail, including visas and check-ins. With strong industry relationships and ATOL protection, Matt delivers personalised, worry-free travel experiences tailored to your needs.Find out more: https://luxurytravelexperts.co.uk/Deb Lee is the owner of Aldridge Mortgage & Protection, a family-run business focused on helping clients achieve their property goals. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Deb offers tailored advice on purchasing, refinancing, and borrowing. Based in the West Midlands but serving clients nationwide, she provides flexible support through remote or face-to-face consultations. With a client-first approach and a passion for making the mortgage process simple and stress-free, Deb ensures her clients' property dreams become reality.Find out more: https://aldridgemp.co.uk/See the wine they drink and keep up to date with their adventures: https://www.instagram.com/cabernetqueens/Get in touch with Cabernet Queens with any questions: cabernetqueens@gmail.com

In this episode of Cabernet Queens, Matt Morgan and Deb Lee catch up after Matt's tenth anniversary party and surprise vow renewal, swap stories about Deb's recent family trip to a private island in Oxfordshire and look ahead to a packed summer of travel for them both.Between a mystery bottle that goes down rather more easily than last week's, the pair cover everything from ugly crying at weddings to malaria tablets, safari outfits and the early plotting of a spontaneous European getaway.Key TakeawaysMatt's vow renewal was a surprise to everyone.Kept secret for weeks, the emotional reveal at his tenth anniversary party left guests and Matt himself in tears, with the night's guitarist providing a standout musical moment.Deb's family island getaway was the trip of the year.A surprise organised by her daughter, the private Oxfordshire island slept 22 people across one house, complete with a games room, hot tub, pizza oven and its own boat for supply runs.This week's mystery wine is going down far more easily than last week's.Both Matt and Deb are enjoying it from the first sip, with neither needing to reach for the sugar pot this time around.Matt is heading to Kruger National Park for the first time.As his biggest selling long haul destination, he is keen to experience it firsthand so he can recommend it with confidence, alongside a Norwegian fjords cruise straight after.A Spanish or Italian mini break is already being plotted.A spontaneous three night wine and cheese trip is on the cards for Matt and his husband, with planning starting the moment the episode wraps.Key Moments"Someone come up to me and said, God, you're an ugly crier." "You literally drive up, park your car and get in a boat to an island.""If I was on my own, I'd have the whole bottle." "Shall we do it? Should we do a three nighter?"About Cabernet QueensCabernet Queens is the podcast where great wine meets even better stories. Each episode, hosts Matt Morgan and Deb Lee uncork a mystery bottle, share travel tales and take listeners along for the ride.Part wine show, part travel podcast, part catch-up between two brilliant friends - grab a glass and drink along.How to Get in TouchFollow Cabernet Queens and join the conversation:Instagram: @cabernetqueensIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, leave a review and share it with your fellow wine and travel enthusiasts.

In this episode of Cabernet Queens, Matt Morgan visits Deb Lee's freshly renovated kitchen for a full house tour, a mystery bottle that nearly gets a record low score, and a catch up before Deb jets off to Crete for a milestone birthday trip with her oldest friend.It is a classic Cabernet Queens episode - equal parts wine chat, home envy and easy conversation, with a Nigella-worthy pantry stealing the show.Key TakeawaysDeb's new kitchen renovation has been a long time coming.Started at the end of March, the build took longer than planned but the result includes a walk in pantry, hidden cutlery drawer and full induction hob setup.The mystery wine split opinion - badly.Both Matt and Deb found it surprisingly light and a touch bitter, with Matt going as far as calling it the worst wine on the show besides the alcohol free episode.Adding sugar genuinely improved the wine.Inspired by a TikTok tip, Matt stirred sugar into his glass and found it noticeably better, though Deb stuck with her unsweetened glass throughout.Old, forgotten bottles rarely age well.Stories of wasted wine from family stashes, including a decades old bottle of champagne from the Ritz, reinforced that most everyday wine is best drunk sooner rather than later.Deb is off to Crete for her 60th birthday trip.She is heading away with her oldest friend Jane for four nights, including a Vegas-themed party for Matt's 10th wedding anniversary to look forward to on her return.Key Moments"That is the worst one we've ever had on the show, besides the alcohol free.""I can't believe you're drinking red wine with a teaspoon of sugar in it.""We can't have wine in the house, it's like having chocolate in the cupboard.""It's wicked for hide and seek." - Matt, on the new pantryAbout Cabernet QueensCabernet Queens is the podcast where great wine meets even better stories. Each episode, hosts Matt Morgan and Deb Lee uncork a mystery bottle, share travel tales and take listeners along for the ride.Part wine show, part travel podcast, part catch-up between two brilliant friends - grab a glass and drink along.How to Get in TouchFollow Cabernet Queens and join the conversation:Instagram: @cabernetqueensIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, leave a review and share it with your fellow wine and travel enthusiasts.

In this episode of Cabernet Queens, Matt Morgan and Deb Lee are joined once again by returning guest Andrew Downing-Booth - local estate agent, self-confessed non-wine-drinker and provider of this episode's mystery bottle.Recorded live at Chung Ying in Birmingham with dinner waiting downstairs, episode 31 covers the unexpected hazards of the estate agency trade, the etiquette of double-barrelled surnames and a mystery bottle that turned out to be considerably better than anyone expected. Andrew also brings a story about a loft, some unexplained items and an uncle who may or may not have some explaining to do.Key TakeawaysEstate agency is a job built on highs, lows and managing expectations.Overvaluing a property to win the listing is one of the industry's worst habits - sellers get locked in, prices drop and nobody wins. Andrew's approach is no tie-in contracts and honest valuations from the start.Fall-throughs are the worst part of the job - for everyone involved.When a sale collapses, it hurts the agent just as much as the client. The phone call to deliver that news is genuinely one of the hardest things about the role.There are sex toys in a loft in Lichfield and nobody is claiming them.Current tenants found them during a contractor visit, confirmed they are not theirs, and want it on record. Andrew has volunteered to retrieve them before the property goes back to market. His uncle may be getting an interesting call.Double-barrelled names come with built-in assumptions.Andrew's name comes from his grandmother's farming family keeping the Downing name alive through marriage. He acknowledges prejudice exists. Jacob Rees-Mogg was used as the prime example of why.Key Moments"They're not ours. Just for the record. When we move out, they are not ours.""You can tell people whatever they want to hear for 36 weeks and then just keep dropping the price.""You make an assumption from the name, then how he speaks, and you just think - prick."About Cabernet QueensCabernet Queens is the podcast where great wine meets even better stories. Each episode, hosts Matt Morgan and Deb Lee uncork a mystery bottle, share travel tales and take listeners along for the ride.Part wine show, part travel podcast, part catch-up between two brilliant friends - grab a glass and drink along.How to Get in TouchFollow Cabernet Queens and join the conversation:Instagram: @cabernetqueensGuest this episode: Andrew Downing-Booth - Estate Agent, LichfieldIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, leave a review and share it with your fellow wine and travel enthusiasts.

In this episode of Cabernet Queens, Matt Morgan and Deb Lee ditch the home setup and record live from Chung Ying in Birmingham - prawn crackers in hand, mystery bottle poured and dinner to follow.Episode 30 is a proper celebration episode. The pair catch up on lodge holidays, surprise birthday weekends, dog dramas and a mystery bottle that neither of them saw coming. There is also a moment of genuine podcast pride as Matt reveals they are now being listened to in 58 countries - which neither of them can quite explain.Key TakeawaysGetting out of the house changes the energy.Recording at Chung Ying gave episode 30 a relaxed, occasion feel - wine, dipping sauces, prawn crackers and a meal waiting. Sometimes the best episodes happen when you just go somewhere.Cabernet Queens is now listened to in 58 countries.The top 10 includes the UK, US, France, Vietnam, Spain, Australia, UAE, Hong Kong, Ireland and Germany. Matt suspects Brazil found them by accident. They love it either way.Deb's birthday surprise weekend involves an island and 17 people.The whole family is in on it except Deb. There is a £700 Tesco shop being delivered to the mystery location. She is just getting in the car and falling asleep.Getting the wine wrong is still getting it right.The whole point of Cabernet Queens is the journey, not the result. Being miles off on the grape, country and price does not matter when the bottle is empty and the company is good.Key Moments"We're listened to in 58 countries. I think Brazil might have been looking for Carnival Queen.""I was walking to the toilet with her paws on my shoulder, sidestepping like a crab.""If it's free, I'll drink it again.""I'll just get in the car and fall asleep. You know me so well."About Cabernet QueensCabernet Queens is the podcast where great wine meets even better stories. Each episode, hosts Matt Morgan and Deb Lee uncork a mystery bottle, share travel tales and take listeners along for the ride.Part wine show, part travel podcast, part catch-up between two brilliant friends - grab a glass and drink along.How to Get in TouchFollow Cabernet Queens and join the conversation:Instagram: @cabernetqueensIf you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe, leave a review and share it with your fellow wine and travel enthusiasts.

In this episode of the Cabernet Queens Podcast, Matt Morgan and Deb Lee continue their relaxed, outdoor catch-up with a focus on how wine fits into everyday life - especially in the summer months. Moving away from traditional tasting expectations, the conversation explores how personal preference plays a big role in how people enjoy wine.From chilled reds to mixing wine with soft drinks, Matt and Deb challenge the “rules” around wine drinking and highlight how experimenting can make it more accessible and enjoyable. Alongside the wine chat, the episode keeps its usual easy-going feel with personal stories, humour, and real-life conversations woven throughout.Key TakeawaysThere are no strict rules with wineWine doesn’t have to be enjoyed a certain way - personal preference should always come first.Red wine can work in summerChilling red wine makes it a great option in warmer weather, even for those who usually switch to white or rosé.Mixing wine isn’t off-limitsAdding mixers like lemonade or cola can create longer, lighter drinks that are perfect for social settings.Experimentation leads to discoveryTrying new ways of drinking wine can open up new preferences and make it more enjoyable.Wine is part of the wider experienceIt’s not just about the drink itself - it’s about the setting, conversation, and people you’re with.Key Moments“I only drink red - even in the summer.”\“You can chill red wine - it actually works.”“Have you ever had it with Sprite?”“It’s like a sangria without the fruit.”“There are no rules with wine.”About the HostsMatt Morgan is a passionate travel specialist committed to turning your dream holidays into reality. Offering expert, impartial advice and 24/7 support, Matt ensures every step of your journey is stress-free. From crafting itineraries across all continents to arranging weddings, honeymoons, cruises, and city breaks, he handles every detail, including visas and check-ins. With strong industry relationships and ATOL protection, Matt delivers personalised, worry-free travel experiences tailored to your needs.Find out more: https://luxurytravelexperts.co.uk/Deb Lee is the owner of Aldridge Mortgage & Protection, a family-run business focused on helping clients achieve their property goals. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Deb offers tailored advice on purchasing, refinancing, and borrowing. Based in the West Midlands but serving clients nationwide, she provides flexible support through remote or face-to-face consultations. With a client-first approach and a passion for making the mortgage process simple and stress-free, Deb ensures her clients' property dreams become reality.Find out more: https://aldridgemp.co.uk/See the wine they drink and keep up to date with their adventures: https://www.instagram.com/cabernetqueens/Get in touch with Cabernet Queens with any questions: cabernetqueens@gmail.com

In this episode of Cabernet Queens, Matt Morgan and Deb Lee take things outdoors for the first time, recording from the garden while catching up on life, travel, and of course, wine. The episode centres around a mystery bottle brought back from Morocco by friends, adding a new twist as they explore a region not typically associated with wine.With their usual relaxed and humorous dynamic, Matt and Deb blend light-hearted conversation with travel reflections, sharing personal updates and stories while tasting something a little different. It’s an easy, conversational episode that captures the essence of the podcast - great wine, great company, and plenty of laughs along the way.Key TakeawaysA change of setting brings a fresh dynamic:Recording outdoors adds a new, relaxed feel to the episode, making the conversation even more natural and free-flowing.Wine can come from unexpected places:Exploring a Moroccan wine highlights how great bottles aren’t limited to traditional regions.Travel and wine go hand in hand:The story behind the bottle adds depth, showing how experiences and memories are often tied to what we drink.Friendship drives the podcast’s energy:The natural chemistry between Matt and Deb keeps the episode engaging, relatable, and entertaining.Best Moments“We’re in the garden recording - this is a first.”“I’ve missed your face.”“They brought back a bottle from Morocco…”“Grab a glass, get comfy and drink along.”About the HostsMatt Morgan is a travel specialist dedicated to creating personalised, stress-free holiday experiences, from luxury escapes to weddings and honeymoons.https://luxurytravelexperts.co.uk/Deb Lee is the owner of Aldridge Mortgage & Protection, helping clients navigate the mortgage process with confidence through tailored, client-first advice.https://aldridgemp.co.uk/Get InvolvedSee the wine they drink and keep up to date with their adventures:https://www.instagram.com/cabernetqueens/Get in touch with Cabernet Queens:cabernetqueens@gmail.com

In this second part of the one-year anniversary episode of the Cabernet Queens Podcast, Matt Morgan and Deb Lee are joined again by their partners Tan and PJ for a continuation of their honest, unfiltered conversation.This episode leans into relationships - from early dating experiences and red flags to long-term dynamics, communication and what actually makes things work. With a mix of humour and real talk, the group share personal stories and perspectives that are both entertaining and relatable.Key TakeawaysRed flags matter early onFirst impressions and early behaviours often signal deeper traits - and ignoring them can lead to bigger issues later.Communication is everythingOpen, honest conversations are key to making relationships work, especially when navigating challenges or differences.Relationships evolve over timeWhat works at the start isn’t always what sustains a long-term relationship — growth and adaptation are essential.Different perspectives add valueHearing both sides of relationship experiences highlights how individuals approach situations differently.Humour helps navigate challengesBeing able to laugh, even in difficult moments, plays a big role in maintaining strong relationships.Key Moments“We probably should’ve seen that red flag earlier.”“That’s when you realise people don’t change - they just show you who they are.”“Communication solves most problems - when you actually do it.”“That definitely didn’t go how we expected.”About the HostsMatt Morgan is a passionate travel specialist committed to turning your dream holidays into reality. Offering expert, impartial advice and 24/7 support, Matt ensures every step of your journey is stress-free. From crafting itineraries across all continents to arranging weddings, honeymoons, cruises, and city breaks, he handles every detail, including visas and check-ins. With strong industry relationships and ATOL protection, Matt delivers personalised, worry-free travel experiences tailored to your needs.Find out more: https://luxurytravelexperts.co.uk/Deb Lee is the owner of Aldridge Mortgage & Protection, a family-run business focused on helping clients achieve their property goals. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Deb offers tailored advice on purchasing, refinancing, and borrowing. Based in the West Midlands but serving clients nationwide, she provides flexible support through remote or face-to-face consultations. With a client-first approach and a passion for making the mortgage process simple and stress-free, Deb ensures her clients' property dreams become reality.Find out more: https://aldridgemp.co.uk/See the wine they drink and keep up to date with their adventures: https://www.instagram.com/cabernetqueens/Get in touch with Cabernet Queens with any questions: cabernetqueens@gmail.com

In this anniversary episode of the Cabernet Queens Podcast, hosts Matt Morgan and Deb Lee celebrate one year of the podcast with their partners, Tan and PJ, joining them for a special extended birthday edition. Recorded at Matt’s house while his kitchen renovation is underway, the episode is packed with laughter, chaos, stories from the past year, and of course a mystery wine tasting. Key TakeawaysA year of friendship, wine and laughter:This special episode marks 12 months of Cabernet Queens, and the chemistry between Matt and Deb is as natural and entertaining as ever. The conversation reflects what makes the podcast work so well: genuine friendship, playful humour and a shared love of wine without taking any of it too seriously.The podcast is at its best when it goes off-script:As they look back on favourite episodes, Matt and Deb reflect on how quickly recordings fly by and how often the best moments come from completely unexpected tangents. Whether it is birthday episodes, lunches before recording, or random discussions that have nothing to do with wine, the show thrives on spontaneity.The best stories have very little to do with wine:Two standout stories dominate the episode: Tanya’s destruction of a malfunctioning wine gadget with a hammer after it would not stop buzzing, and Tanya and PJ accidentally winning expensive auction prizes at a charity ball. Both stories sum up the tone of the podcast perfectly: chaotic, relatable and laugh-out-loud funny.Key Moments“We are celebrating 12 months, our one year anniversary of the podcast.”“I genuinely think… it’s only because we enjoy doing it.”“It was less about the wine and more about the stories.”“That is a lovely glass of wine.”About the HostsMatt Morgan is a passionate travel specialist committed to turning your dream holidays into reality. Offering expert, impartial advice and 24/7 support, Matt ensures every step of your journey is stress-free. From crafting itineraries across all continents to arranging weddings, honeymoons, cruises, and city breaks, he handles every detail, including visas and check-ins. With strong industry relationships and ATOL protection, Matt delivers personalised, worry-free travel experiences tailored to your needs.Find out more: https://luxurytravelexperts.co.uk/Deb Lee is the owner of Aldridge Mortgage & Protection, a family-run business focused on helping clients achieve their property goals. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, Deb offers tailored advice on purchasing, refinancing, and borrowing. Based in the West Midlands but serving clients nationwide, she provides flexible support through remote or face-to-face consultations. With a client-first approach and a passion for making the mortgage process simple and stress-free, Deb ensures her clients' property dreams become reality.Find out more: https://aldridgemp.co.uk/See the wine they drink and keep up to date with their adventures: https://www.instagram.com/cabernetqueens/Get in touch with Cabernet Queens with any questions: cabernetqueens@gmail.com