When that wine writer you like goes on and on about a particular wine region, or when that influencer you follow on Instagram starts raving about a wine that you can find in grocery stores nationwide, do you ever wonder why? Well, there’s a scourge in the beverage journalism world, and it’s called “pay to play.” Whether it’s brands getting guaranteed coverage or even inflated scores by taking wine critics on elaborate trips, or just a spot on someone’s IG story through sending them some sample bottles, it’s an ugly side to this industry that rarely gets talked about.

Except today, because Adam and Zach are pulling up the rocks and looking at all the gross critters crawling around underneath: why a lack of disclosure harms readers and restaurant goers, and why selling out your integrity for free swag is a losing proposition in the long run.

Listen now:

Download or Stream on iTunes