Kosher Sommelier Podcast

In this episode, we visit local San Diego Distillery and have an extended session sixth founder and distiller Trent Tilton. Aside from his full time job as a registered nurse, he also has a second full time job fulfilling his passion with these “spiritual” pursuits. We discuss the process of distilling, how spirits get their flavor, how to properly taste whiskey, and participate in a partial tasting of really awesome products. If you have ever wanted to understand what goes into the making of a bottle of whiskey, you have to listen up. We learned a lot! Thanks to San Diego Distillery in Spring Valley, CA for hosting us.

In this episode, we sit down with Morgan Witt, a local digital marketing executive who is in the process of developing his wine business plan to bring family owned wineries in front of wine collectors and restaurant buyers. We discuss the challenges of wine marketing and branding, and how to build the relationship between producer and consumer. Also, we spend some time discussing the history of Andrew’s importing business, and how it was grown over time. This will be the first in a series of episodes on the Drinks Business that will encompass many fascinating aspects of this exciting industry, and the people who make it all possible.

Episode 6: Benyamin Cantz of Four Gates Winery, Santa Cruz, CA -  In this episode, we are interviewing a person who, at least for the kosher wine drinker, needs no introduction. Benyamin Cantz founded the Four Gates Winery on a hillside in the Santa Cruz Mountains almost 30 years ago, and never looked back. We spent over an hour together and cover interesting topics from how he got started, to his thoughts on the world of wine and winemaking. Listen to find out how he first realized the great potential of his vineyard, how he learned about winemaking, and the mystical elements behind the name Four Gates. Mr. Cantz is a artist and craftsman, and his passion and dedication to winemaking is legendary. We had some spotty sound issues here and there, and we apologize, but the content was too good to leave off! This interview was certainly a highlight for us, and we hope you feel the same.

Episode 5: Yitz Applbaum -  In this episode, we travel to Oakland, California and have an interesting chat with Industry Trailblazer and Kosher Wine Collector, Yitz Applbaum.  We cover how Yitz came into a passion for wine, started several kosher wine brands, and eventually focused on his collecting. Known for his passion for Israel and its wines, Yitz regularly hosts wine tastings for celebrities and government officials around the world. A fascinating personality in the world of kosher wine! To learn more about our guest, Yitz Applbaum, you can read this profile about him courtesy of Jewish News of Northern California: Applbaum Bio @JWeekly

Episode 4 - White Wine Revolution with Andrew In this episode, listen in as I share my thoughts about how we are in the midst of a kosher white wine revolution. We’ve made it this far with great kosher wines from around the world, but is there another big shift coming? Listen to where I think this is going, and why. Here are some links to articles that I not so casually refer to in this show. Rosh Hashanah Wines: http://sdjewishjournal.com/sdjj/september-2018/rosh-hashanah-wines/ Wine Spectator Article https://www.winespectator.com/webfeature/show/id/Jamie-Geller-Kosher-Recipes-Wine-Braised-Beef-Brisket-Shallots-Carrot

In this episode, we get to know a winemaker whose name in kosher circles in gaining recognition, while he’s already quite recognized in the broader wine world. Josh Klapper founded TIMBRE Winery, formerly known as La Fenetre, focusing on Burgundian varietals in the Central Coast. We hear about Josh’s career as an award winning Sommelier who earned a Wine Spectator Grand Award, how be transitioned to winemaking, and his involvement with kosher wine. Josh shares his critical insider tips for learning how to truly taste and evaluate wine. Also, do not miss his surprising secret for success in the the wine industry. This one is "required reading" for anyone who wants to take their wine knowledge to the next level!

In this episode, we are live from the heart of Burgundy. Enjoy this enlightening conversation with Francois Chaveriat, head winemaker of Domaine Chantal Lescure in the Cote de Beaune. After tasting from the barrels, we have an interesting conversation about wine growing practices. What is the significance of organic wines? How does this play into the conversation about terroir and authenticity? Listen to hear deep secrets of the vineyard from a true expert.

In this episode, listen in and be fascinated by one of the most interesting personalities in the world of Israeli wine, winemaker Ya’acov Oryah. Ya’acov is the head winemaker for the Psagot Winery in Israel, but is mostly known for his eponymous winery, focusing on all things white, and orange (with a little bit of red as well). Listen in to hear about his paradigm shifting approach to wine production, and his unique - and controversial - methods.

In this episode, get to know the host of the Kosher Sommelier Podcast, Andrew Breskin. Andrew will describe his background in the wine industry, his fascination with all things wine, and the wine business. How does one learn about tasting? What is the secret to working your way up in the wine industry? Have a listen and enjoy!