Guide to Wine Podcast: Episode 126

Can AI Make Your Wine Experience Better? (Part 1)

An Interview with John Tan

​Air Date: Wednesday, October 15th, 2025

Listen to the Podcast!

Can artificial intelligence (AI) really change the way you enjoy wine?

In this episode, you’ll meet John Tan, founder of CorkVision, an AI-powered platform designed to help wineries sell smarter, connect with customers, and streamline operations. John’s story takes us from high-powered client dinners in New York to an unplanned move to Napa Valley after a fateful night of wine tasting and, eventually, to harvest work that reshaped his perspective on wine.

You’ll hear how his background in tech inspired CorkVision, where “Corky,” an AI assistant, helps wineries anticipate customer needs, personalize experiences, and manage data more effectively. From streamlining inventory to curating memorable guest tastings, John explains how AI is making life easier for small wineries and enhancing the experience for wine lovers everywhere.

Whether you’re curious about how AI is changing industries, love behind-the-scenes winery stories, or simply want to know what technology means for your next glass of wine, this episode will give you a new perspective on the intersection of tradition and innovation.

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Vacu Vin: Go to us.vacuvin.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ for 20% off your order!
• BonChocolats: Go to bonchocolats.com to order some delicious artisan chocolate (that actually pairs well with wine)!

Episode Highlights:

• John’s journey from New York tech founder to Napa Valley harvest hand
  
• The story of nearly signing a lease in Napa sight unseen after a night of wine tasting
  
• Why small, direct-to-consumer wineries face unique challenges in sales and data management
  
• How CorkVision and “Corky” help wineries personalize the guest experience
  
• Real-world examples of AI-driven solutions for wineries and wine lovers
  
• The importance of balancing technology with the human side of hospitality
  

Connect with John
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntan/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/corkvision
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runfatboyrun7/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cork.vision/
Website: https://www.corkvision.com/