Spilling the Truth - Wine & Conversation

There are tons of late nights in the bar industry and conversations that cover all subjects. This is one of those conversations. We sat down with Chuck Fowler to discuss all the conspiracies that we hear serving guests at the bar and add our own take to them.    This is one of those types of shows that is genuinely as close as it gets to the conversations had at the bar top!

In this episode we invite Enes from Alesmith on to talk about the history and beers of Alesmith Brewing. We learn a lot about how the brewery got started, some of their specialty beers, and the charities and organizations they help out with.   Enes was born in in the former Yugoslavia and is a Bosnian native that moved from there to Tucson AZ, and later Phoenix. We talk a lot about this growing up there and moving to the states, and what it is like to become a representative that helps open up markets and states for a brewery to get setup in. We hope you enjoy this episode!

In this episode with sit down with Ian Ribowsky, General Manager of Jean-Luc Colombo in Cornas in the Rhône Valley.   We had an amazing time talking with Ian about what it was like working the industry for the past few decades, and what it took for him to work with his good friend Jean-Luc.    We sat down and drank through a handful of different wines from Jean-Luc Colombo winery, and talked a lot about what makes up Rhône Valley styles and the rules that dictate how they are made.   We learned a lot from him and can't wait to have him back on again!   Wines Drank -Côtes du Rhône – “Les Abeilles” (The Bees) -Viognier “La Violette” (The Violette) -Picpoul de Pinet “Les Girelles” (name of a traditional fish from the Mediterranean Sea) -Côtes du Rhône – “Les Abeilles” (The Bees) -Cornas – “Les Ruchets” (The Beehives) Cornas – “La Louvée” (The She Wolf) -Cornas – “Terres Brulees” (The Burnt Lands)

In this episode, we sit down with representative Katixa Mercier from French Libations. French Libations represents a bunch of different French wines, spirits and ciders in America.    We talk bout everything from how she came up in the industry and her love of wine, as well as all things chip related. #chipfaced. She also helps Jonathan try to pronounce all the different wine labels, since she can speak multiple different languages, but as usual he fails pretty terribly.    We hope you enjoy this show!

In this episode with sit down with the Southwest Area Sales Manager of Great Divide brewing to talk to us about the brewery and its beers. We also get into what its like in the beer industry and learned a lot along the way. We hope you enjoy.

In this episode, we sit down with the winemaker Matt Dees. Matt makes the wines for Jonata, The Hilt, and The Paring wines.    We sit down and have a discussion about ho the got into the wine industry, where its heading, and future plans for himself.  Once again, the conversation leads to a lot of laughter and we discover that the world is a small place and we all know some of the same people.

In this episode, we have on Bibiana González Rave, owner and winemaker, of Cattleya and Alma de Cattleya Wines.    She was named Winemaker of the year in 2015 by San Francisco chronicle as well as Wine Enthusiast top 40 under 40 Americas Tastemakers.    While we drink her wines and discuss her 2 labels Alma de Cattleya and Cattleya, we dive into how she arrived in the wine making world. What it was like working for Pahlmeyer and Wayfarer and how she started her own wine brand.    We learn a lot from her in this episode and hope you all enjoy it.   Wines drank on the show Alma de Cattleya Sauvignon Blanc -2019 Alma de Cattleya Chardonnay - 2018 Alma de Cattleya Pinot Noir - 2018 Alma de Cattleya Red Blend -2018 Cattleya Chardonnay Cuvee Number 5 - 2018 Cattleya Pinot Noir Cuvée Number 1 -2018 Wayfarer - The Travler -2012

In this episode, we sit down with the VP of Marketing and sales for Karl Strauss Brewery Chad Heath. We sample through a bunch of different beers with him while we talk about what it was like to get to where he is at, as well as Karl Strauss Brewery and the future of beer from them. As usual we get into some other weird conversations that give you a look into the wide world of beer. Hope you all enjoy.   Cheers!

In this episode, Adam Avery, the owner and founder of Avery Brewing Co in Boulder Colorado joins us on the show. We had a great time talking to him about what is was like starting his brewery, creating his original beers, what it was like to run the brewery during COVID, and numerous other topics.    Beer drank on this episode Pamona - Sour Beer White Rascal - Belgian Wit Beer Liliko'i Kepolo - Belgian Wit Beer with Hawaiian passion fruit Hazyish IPA - Hazy IPA Vanilla Bean Stout - Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout with Vanilla Rumpkin - Rum Barrel Aged Pumpkin Ale

In this episode the Head brewer of Harland Ryan Alvarez, and Brand Ambassador Erica Nichols come on to discuss their beers from Harland Beer Co in San Diego, California. We talk with Ryan and Erica about how they got into the beer industry, what its like being a brewer, the crazy world of the beer industry, becoming an ambassador for the company during a pandemic, and much more.        Beer Drank on the episode Wallaby - Australian Lager Tama Tama - Foeder fermented Pilsner - Foeder Pilsner w/ Yuzu and Hoshigaki, and Kentucky Bluegrass Super Seltzer - Hard seltzer brewed in collaboration with Mikkeller San Diego; mulberry, mango, mangosteen, and red pomelo fermented in American Oak foeder. Fitzy 1 - Imperial Stout - Barrel aged 14 months in 9-year-Old Fitzgerald barrels, treated with 25 lbs. of toasted coconut for one single barrel as well as sweet, sweet maple syrup All Gas No Brakes - Imperial stout aged in Malahat Spirits bourbon barrels w/ Cook Islands vanilla  

In this episode Brenson Johnson, from Toppling Goliath Brewery in Decorah, Iowa, join Jonathan and Damien. While they drink a few different beers from the brewery, they discuss every thing from what its like working for Toppling Goliath,  new trends in the beer industry, Brensons band, and making homemade furniture!    Beers drank in this episode Dorthys New World Lager Pompeii IPA Pseudo Sue - Hazy Pale Ale King Sue - Hazy Double IPA Term Oil Coconut Monster Cookie - Bourbon Aged Stout

WE ARE BACK!!! This is the ver first episode recorded in the podcasting studio at Rift! In this episode Jonathan and Damien discuss where the term cult wine comes from. they break down the possibility of the term originating from an actual cult in California, and not created to be used as a term for collector wines. They drink some wine made from a place in California that is considered among many to have once been a doomsday cult that produced the wine for this episode.  Check out the new bar at Rift Wine + Tap Wine Tasted 1997 Renaissance Vineyards - Proprietary Blend: Yuba City, California 2002 Renaissance Vineyards - Syrah: Yuba City, California    

In Episode 41, after a few months away from the mic's, the guys settle back into the groove of podcasting by welcoming their good friend Yousef back on the show to talk about his craft beer collaboration and to blind taste some wine with us.   Yousef is the founder and cohost of the live show "Social Distance Drinking Club" and a Spilling the Truth favorite guest.  The guys talk all about his recent beer collaboration with Tombstone Brewing, announce their new studio and wine bar, and of course discuss Jonathan's addiction to Sbarros pizza.   This was a perfect episode to get the show restarted, thank you for listening.     Give the Social Distance Guys a follow here on FB to be notified when they are going liveSocial Distance Drinking Club on Facebook Check out Damien & Jonathan's episode on Social Distance Drinking Club hereDamien & Jonathan's Episode on SDDCDamien & Jonathan now own Rift Wine+Tap in Scottsdale www.riftbaraz.com  

The guys are back with new episodes!  In their return, Jonathan and Damien open a great bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon and discuss the impact the pandemic is having on restaurants, wineries, breweries and the beverage industry as a whole.  They have some great advice for people trying to do virtual tastings and ideas on how to get through the weeks of being on lockdown.  Wines Tasted:2013 Calla Lilly "Ultimate Red" Cabernet Sauvignon - Pope Valley, Napa, California 

In today episode, Damien and Jonathan were very lucky to spend a couple hours talking everything Italian with Nicola Biscardo, Amarone producer, importer, and brand ambassador of some of the most amazing and unique Italian varietals.  The guys begin the show with a quick lesson on Italian phrases and than get right into the rich culture and history of Italy and Verona in particular.  Nicola shares his passion and enthusiasm throughout the show and educates the guys on how amarone is produced, the greatest mistake his parents ever made, and why everyone in the US should drink more Italian wines.  The guys could have talked all day and we cannot wait to record part two.  This episode is a ton of fun and very educational.  Thank you all for listening and we hope you enjoy as much as they guys did recording it. Some of the varietals tasted during this episode are so unique they might be difficult to find but definitely worth the search to find them.   For more information, for distribution, or to contact Nicola https://www.nicolabiscardo.com/ Wines Tasted: NV Notte Bianci Emilia Brut IGP - Emilia-Romagna, Italy2017 Gaierhof Pinot Grigio DOCG - Trentino, Italy2017 Tenuta la Meridiana "Le Quattro Terre" Barbera D'Asti DOCG - Montegrosso d’Asti, Italy2017 Marchesi Biscardo Corvina della Provincia di Verona IGT - Negrar, Italy2015 Marchesi Biscardo Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG - Negrar, Italy2018 Salvatore Martusciello "OTTOUVE" Gragnano della Penisola Sorrentina DOC - Campania, Italy

In Episode 38, Damien and Jonathan welcome the owner of Atlas Bistro on the show to saber a champagne bottle and to talk Oregon Pinot Noir. Todd founded Atlas Bistro 19 years ago and it has become one of the best hidden gems in Phoenix and in America. The show starts off with a quick demonstration on how not to saber a bottle, a discussion about Grower Champagnes, our favorite wine importers, and how he founded the restaurant. Quickly the guys get into how Atlas Bistro, after 19 years, stays one step ahead of restaurant trends through global travels and how great it was being featured on The Food Network this year. While enjoying two great Pinots and talking all about the different growing regions in Oregon they get into reminiscing about the best bottles ever shared at Atlas and what wines got everyone into wine. It was a lot of fun to record this episode and if you haven't yet been to Atlas or haven't gone in a while, it is a perfect time to make a reservation.This episode is available on YouTube (and we recommend watching Todd's epic saber fail. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vf4OS9wmqnM Wines Tasted:Champagne Marc Hebreart Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs2017 Walter Scott "Justice Vineyard" Pinot Noir - Willamette Valley, OR2012 Soter Vineyards North Valley Pinot Noir - Yahmill-Carlton, Dundee OR www.atlasbistrobyob.com(480) 990-CHEF

In Episode 37, Jonathan and Damien talk all about attending wine trade shows and discuss Washington state wines for the first time. The guys just returned from a local distributor trade event with a bottle of Saltfire Hazy IPA and 4 different selections from Gorman Winery in Columbia Valley WA. They spend the episode discussing everything from sustainability laws and Washington growing regions to how to get into a distributor trade shows with ease. Gorman winery is a great value and we definitely recommend the wines to anyone wanting to try some big wines from the Pacific NW. We hope you enjoy and thank you for listening. Products Tasted:Saltfire Brewing Co "Big in Japan" Hazy IPA - Salt Lake City, UT2016 Gorman Winery "The Devil You Know" - Columbia Valley, WA2016 Gorman Winery "The Devil You Don't Know" - Columbia Valley, WA2016 Gorman Winery "Old Scratch" Cabernet Sauvignon - Red Mountain, WA2015 Gorman Winery "The Bully" Cabernet Sauvignon - Red Mountain, WA

In Episode 36, the guys welcomed local food festival legend David Tyda on the show to Spill the Truth all about his new festivals and to discuss pairing wine with pizza. David arrived to the show with a local favorite NY style pizza, the guys opened three awesome Italian wines, turned on the mic's instantly hilarity ensued. This episode is our funniest to date and also has the first canned wine consumed on the show.  The guys talk all about Davids upcoming Phoenix Pizza Festival and debate everything from whether Chicago pizza is actually a casserole to whether tots considered french fries. The trio also discusses about 20 other hilarious topics and we don't want to spoil all the fun so you will just need to listen.   This episode is full of great information and really is our most entertaining episode so far. Thank you again David for coming on the show and we hope you all enjoy listening as much as we did recording.You can also watch this episode on YouTube herehttps://youtu.be/ZkDg6YhC674 Wines Tasted: Frico by Scarpetta Lambrusco (250ml Can)2017 Tenuta delle Terre Nere Etna Rosso 2013 Villa di Geggiano Chianti Classico For more information on Phoenix Pizza Festival or to purchase tickets please go to www.phoenix.pizza

In this episode,  Damien and Jonathan welcome their good friend and sommelier Thomas Klafke to Spill the Truth about the Howell Mountain AVA.  This is the the most informative episode to date and might have the best wine ever consumed by the guys while recording.  Thomas flew in just to share three estate Cabernet Sauvignons from three different vintages while discussing the nuances of the region in a fun way.  The conversation really is an in depth look into the Howell Mountain AVA and the mind of a sommelier,  yet it also covers everything from how we got in the business to what we would drink if we were trapped on a desert island.  We really hope you enjoy this look into the mind of a somm and thank you again Thomas for sharing some of the best wines ever made in California.  Wines Tasted:2013 Bravante Vineyards Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - Howell Mountain, CA2014 Neil Family Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon - Howell Mountain, CA2015 Cimarossa "Riva de Levante" Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon - Howell Mountain, CA  

In this episode,  Damien and Jonathan welcome back Sean Tevik to discuss sulfites in wine more in depth and talk about other misconceptions in wine production. Sean has worked as a wine director, winery general manager, distributor, and ambassador and is a wealth of knowledge. We had planned on talking more about sulfites during this episode however the conversation lead us to many alternate topics such as spontaneous fermentation, immaculate inoculations and magic wands that reduce hangovers. This episode was quite a lot of fun to record and had some hilarious moments Thank you again Sean for coming on Spilling the Truth and sharing some special wines with us and remember "Be good...and if you cannot be good, be bad". Wines Tasted:NV Valdo "Cuvee 1926" Prosecco DOCG - Valdobbiadene, Italy2018 La Perriere Sancerre - Loire Valley, France2011 No Ancora Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley, CA 2011 Davis Family Winery "Soul Patch" Syrah - Russian River Valley, CA

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien discuss sulfites and additives in wines. The sulfites added to wine have became the stuff of urban legend where people believe its the catalyst for every headache, migraine, and movie style hangover. And yet, there’s no scientific evidence to support such claims. Damien has some great rants as the duo discuss all the additives allowed in wine, the real reason you might get a headache, and some local Arizona wines that you might find interesting.  Thank you for watching.   Wines Tasted:2016 Giovanni Rosso Langhe Nebbiolo - Piedmont, Italy 2012 Caduceus Cellars "Sancha" - Cochise County, ArizonaWine blog on episode 33: Sulfites in winehttps://spillingthetruth.comWatch on YouTube herehttps://youtu.be/T4a4jN3Kzyo Full list of over 60 additives allowed in wineGovernment Regulation Website

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien sit down with Sommelier Oscar Avila before he leaves for Burgundy to pursue his MBA in wine. The guys talk what it takes to get a Business Degree in wine while enjoying some of Oscar's favorite varietals. The trio discusses everything from food and wine pairings and global warming to the wine events to attend such as TexSomm, VinItaly, and ProWein. Oscar drops some great knowledge including when is the perfect time to open those special bottles you are holding. This episode is a casual look into the mind of a sommelier and we hope you enjoy. Good luck in Burgundy Oscar Wines Tasted: 2016 Benoit Ente Vin de Bourgogne - Puligney Montrachet 2017 G.D. Vajra Langhe Riesling DOC - Piedmont, Italy 2009 Cagliero 'Ravera' Barolo DOCG - Piedmont, ItalyYou can watch this episode on YouTube here as wellhttps://youtu.be/LchdXxvjOAs

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien go back to beer and do a followup to their Hazy IPA episode.  They guys open a few different craft beers fresh from San Diego and discuss the craft beer explosion in the US and many of the trends happening right now.  Damien busts out some amazing stats such as total number of breweries since the 1800's and per capita volume brewed per state.  Many of the things covered in this episode are going to shock you !  Enjoy and thank you for listening. Beers Consumed:Resident Brewing - Chasing Mosaic - Single Hazy IPABelching Beaver - Digital Bath - Single Hazy IPABelching Beaver - Here Comes Mango - West Coast IPA Coronado Brewing - 23rd Anniversary - Double Hazy IPA You can watch this episode on YouTube right hereEpisode 31 on YouTube

In todays episode, Jonathan and Damien open a great bottle of 2007 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and have a conversation about the state of the beverage industry. They talk about the new tasting tongue that can spot fakes, trigger words that freak people out, and what exactly the guys consider a "big" wine. We hope you enjoy and thank you for tuning in.  Wine tasted:2007 Barbour Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon - St. Helena, California You can now also watch on YouTubeEpisode 30 on YouTube

In this Episode, Jonathan and Damien open some of their favorite unique white wines that are perfect for summertime entertaining and all these wines pair perfectly with barbecues, tacos and pools.  The discuss throwing "A.B.C." parties as well as some of their favorite white wine pairings.  There are some hilariously funny moments in this episode and we hope you enjoy.   Wines Tasted: 2017 Aveleda Vinho Verde - Vinho Verde, Portugal 2017 Piattelli Torrontes - Salta, Argentina 2016 Hirsch "Hirschvergnügen" Grüner Veltliner - Kamptal, Austria 

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien talk all about Barolo.  They guys open two wines from the most iconic Barolo producers while discussing the region of Piedmont, the different clones of Nebbiolo and why this is one of their favorite varietals and regions in the world.  This is another milestone episode where you can also watch on YouTube.   We hope you enjoy.   Wines tasted:2013 Bruno Giacosa Nebbiolo d'alba - Nieve, Piedmont, Italy2010 Damilano Cannubi Barolo - La Morra, Piedmont, Italy  Watch Episode 28 here on YouTube  

In today's episode, Jonathan and Damien go down the Hazy IPA rabbit hole and discuss why so many wine lovers are enjoying this newer style of IPA.  The guys talk all about the different types of hops, the beer collaboration movement, and proper glassware.  As usual, the conversation takes many twists and turns and always ends up back to whats in the glass.   Cheers!    Beers Tasted:Odd 13 Brewing "Intergalactic Juice Hunter" Double IPA  Lumberyard Brewing "Hazy Angel" IPA New Image Brewing - "Peachra - Attack of the Peach" Milkshake IPANew Image Brewing - "Pay it Forward"  IPA Cerebral Brewing - "Rare Trait" IPA  

In today's episode, Jonathan and Damien blind taste each other on some poorly stored wines and discuss the effects the storage environment has on wine.  During the show, the guys talk about different techniques used to romance wine buyers, the beer hops craze in the US, and wine diamonds.  The grand unveiling of wines tasted was shocking and you will need to tune in to see what happened.  Enjoy Wines tasted:Its a surprise - you will need to listed to see what happens

In today's episode, Jonathan and Damien welcome local beer geek Yousef Hawash on the show drink wine and give his views as a consumer on the wine industry.  The original plan was to blind taste various Malbecs from around the world with him however the guys got quickly derailed and ended up talking about everything from the best airport food in America and Alex Jones to who really is the Robert Parker of milkshakes.  Yousef was a great guest and even shared a beer that would make the best sommeliers in america stop and think twice.  This probably is the funniest and most informative episode to date and we hope you enjoy listening as much as the guys had recording it.  Wines Tasted: 2015 Château de Mercuès - Malbec du Cahors - Cahors, Fr2015 Bodegas Norton D.O.C. Malbec - Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza, Ar2014 Browne Family Vineyards Malbec - Columbia Valley, Washington Beer Tasted:2015 Stone Farking Wheaton W00tstout 

In today's episode, Damien and Jonathan dive deep into Rosé wines and discuss why everyone should drink more of them.  The guys open wines from two different countries and talk about everything from how Rosé is made and common food pairings to the final 2018 stats on wine consumption in the USA.  We suspect the guys will do many more Rosé episodes after this one since they only scratched the surface on the many different styles of Rosé made around the world.  Enjoy !  Wines Tasted:2018 Ioppa Nebbiolo Rosé DOC - Colline Novaresi, Italy2017 Espirit Gassier  Côtes de Provence - Provence, France 

In today's Episode, Jonathan and Damien open a 1.5ltr bottle of 2011 Produttori del Barbaresco for the Easter Holiday to share with friends.  The guys return from a week away to discuss the nostalgia of opening large format bottles, debate proper glassware to use for nebbiolo and talk about some great Wine Searcher stats that Damien pulled off the interweb.  This episode is packed full of general knowledge about the wine industry as a whole and the region of Barbaresco.   We hope you enjoy.   Wines Tasted :2011 Produttori del Barbaresco Barbaresco 1.5ltr - Piedmont, Italy   

In this episode Jonathan and Damien focus in on the varietal Cabernet Franc.  The duo open two very different styles of Cab Franc and discuss everything from 80's cartoons to Instagram influencers marketing wine now.  This is a total rabbit hole of an episode in which you will discover both Damien's worst fashion mistakes to Jonathan's amazing singing voice.  We really hope you enjoy, and remember "Knowing is half the battle" Wines Tasted: 2017 Malibu Rocky Oaks Cabernet Franc - Malibu Coast, California 2004 Viader "DARE" Cabernet Franc - Napa Valley, California 

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien pack up their mic's and take the Spilling the Truth on the road to meet with their friend Dermott Hutton, owner of Firehall Brewery in Oliver, British Columbia.  Firehall Brewery is considered "The Beer of Wine Country" as they are the only brewery located in the heart of Canada's wine growing region.  They make a variety of artisan beers including "The Hoser" and the trio have a chance to enjoy that along with few of the brewery's limited released while recording.  There are a few funny interruptions, being that this was not recorded in the studio, as the guys discuss everything from how Firehall got its start and their barrel aging programs to Canadian's love of Celene Dion.  This is a great look into the Canadian craft beer industry and it was a lot of fun to record.  Firehall Brewery6077 Main StreetOliver, British Columbia https://www.firehallbrewery.com

In this Episode, Jonathan and Damien talk all about Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara.  The duo open a couple affordable wines from the region and break down many of the different AVA's in Santa Barbara county.  Their discussions cover everything from how the Sta. Rita AVA got its unique name to their take on free range organic sulfites.  We hope you enjoy  Wines Tasted: 2015 Cambria Pinot Noir "Julia's Vineyard" - Santa Maria Valley, California2015 Foley Pinot Noir - Sta. Rita Hills, California 

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien debut "The Cabernet Conversations" where they have a great discussion over two amazing Cabernets.  The guys dive deep into their cellars for this episode and come out with shocking results.  One of the bottles might be the last in existence and they talk about everything from label importance to Tahitian wines while enjoying these amazing cabs.  Damien does get a bit nostalgic talking about consuming vintage wines on this episode and the guys even have a chance to text with one of the wine makers during the show.  We hope you enjoy The Cabernet Conversations on Spilling the Truth Wines Tasted:2006 Malm Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon - Sonoma County, California2013 Coup de Foudre Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa Valley, California

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien welcome to the table local dining reporter, Lauren Saria from the Arizona Republic.  There was plenty to discuss as Lauren just returned from her first trip to Italy and spent this past weekend eating everything at the Devour Culinary Classic.  The guys open a some iconic Italian wines to share however this episode developed into a food and restaurant culture discussion in the end.  They do cover everything from what its like to be a food critic and some unique dining experiences such as eating bugs to having a debate whether pizza can be considered toast or not.  We hope you enjoy the episode, it was a lot of fun to record and quite entertaining. Wines Tasted2010 La Poderina Brunello di Montalcino DOCG2012 Pecchenino Bricco Botti Dogliani DOCG   https://classic.devourphoenix.com/  

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien are joined by their friend, Sean Tevik from Noble Tree & Thomas George winery to talk about Sonoma County, making wine approachable, and the wine business in general.  Sean has had the privilege of working with one of Sonoma's greatest vineyard managers and he brought a wealth of knowledge with him to the show along with a few great wines.  He has also worked on most every side of the business from sales to production and is a lot of fun to chat with.  The trio enjoy three wines from Taub Family Selections portfolio, including one of Sean's, and discuss everything from Bordeaux Blanc & Frappato to what it was like to launch a new winery during the recession.  This episode has a ton of information about each region along with some interesting facts about smoke taint that will shock you.   We hope you enjoy, thank you for listening.  Wines Tasted 2017 Domaines Barons de Rothschild Légende Bordeaux Blanc - Bordeaux, France 2015 Planeta Ceresuolo di Vittoria DOCG - Sicily, Italy 2015 Noble Tree Cabernet Sauvignon - Sonoma County, California   Taub Family Selectionshttps://www.taubfamilyselections.com/

In this Episode of Spilling the Truth, Damien and Jonathan are joined by advanced sommelier Jason Caballero from Bourbon Steak in Scottsdale, AZ to talk everything sommelier.  Jason leads the local Arizona somm prep classes and will also be taking his master sommelier exam later in 2019.  The trio talk about everything from their humble wine beginnings and mentors to their epiphany wines.  This episode is a great look into the sommelier profession and the effort it takes to achieve the highest designation from the Court of Master Sommeliers.  Jason is a wealth of knowledge and passion and it really shows when he is talking.   We hope you enjoy listening and be sure to go visit Jason at Bourbon Steak any time you are in town. Wines Tasted:2011 Domaine de la Vougeraie Vougeot Clos du Prieure Monopole - Cote de Nuits, France2006 Travaglini Gattinara Riserva - Gattinara, Italy

In this episode Damien and Jonathan are joined on the mics by Valentina Huerta, the owner of Nonna Urban Eatery in Scottsdale, AZ.  Valentina is as passionate as the guys are about food & wine and the conversation was off and running even before Damien could hit record.  They quickly dive into the unique cuisine served at Nonna and how Chef Brugaletta crafts his seasonal menus using influences from his experiences around the world.  While on the show, Valentina wanted to share some historical Mexican spirits from regions that are part of her family heritage.  On top of learning how to pronounce Xtabentún, the guys get a full lesson on the history of Sotol and Bacanora, as well as various Mayan Liqueurs.  The trio round out the show discussing everything from pushing culinary boundaries and kitchen lingo to what actually is an 'urban gypsy'.   Valentina really is a wealth of knowledge and passion and it was a delight of have her on the show. Enjoy this episode.   Liquors Tasted Rancho Tepua Bacanora Blanco - Sonora, Mexico La Higuera Sotol - Chihuahua, Mexico Casa D'Aristi XTA Xtabentún - Yucatan, Mexico Casa D'Aristi Huana Mayan Guanabana Liqueur - Yucatan, Mexico Casa D'Aristi Kalani Mayan Coconut Rum Liqueur - Yucatan, Mexico  Anytime you are in Scottsdale, please visit the restaurant and say hello to Chef and Valentina for us.   Nonna Urban Eatery7240 E Main StScottsdale, AZ 85251http://nonnascottsdale.com/  

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien go back to their roots and dive deep into aged Chianti Classico and their love of Italy.  The guys start out by discussing what a government shutdown means for new wine vintages arriving in the US and then get right into everything Tuscany and Sangiovese.  They compare and contrast two very distinct vintages of Chianti Classico from two very different sized producers while telling many stories from their families and their travels there.  The discussion covers everything from wine being a food group to the legend of the black rooster.  We hope you enjoy this episode.  Read our Spilling the Truth wine blogEpisode 14: Chianti Classico and the Legend of the Black Rooster   Wines Tasted 2011 Gagliole Rubiolo Chianti Classico DOCG - Castellina in Chianti, Italy  2002 Ruffino Riserva Ducale Chianti Classico DOCG - Siena & Florence, Italy  

In this episode, Damien and Jonathan welcome local Sazerac lover, influencer, and ambassador for Arizona Cocktail Weekend, Kirti Dwivedi of Diya marketing.  The trio decide to forgo the wine and make Negroni's while discussing everything from their favorite dive bars to finding a kidney on Twitter.  This episode is a great look into the craft spirit industry, the power of social media, and will give you an insider preview of some of the amazing events & competitions planned for Arizona Cocktail Weekend in Phoenix.  Their conversation covers all the current trends happening now in the bar industry and, as usual, it takes many twists and turns along the way.  We hope you enjoy this episode as much as they did recording it.  Cocktail Tasted:Negroni - Made with equal parts Campari, Boodles Gin, and Dolin Sweet Vermouth.  Chilled then served on the rocks.  Read our Spilling the Truth wine blogEpisode 13: Negroni and Arizona Cocktail Weekend Conversations with Kirti How to follow KirtiKirti on TwitterDiya Marketing Website   Arizona Cocktail Weekend February 16-18th 2019https://arizonacocktailweekend.com/    

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien open the iconic 2004 Clos Apalta from Casa Lapostolle.   After a quick discussion about using an Ah-so wine opener,  the conversation turns to the wine growing region of Chile and the history of the region. The guys really enjoy the nose and the nuances of the Clos Apalta while talking about the root louse phylloxera, the challenges facing the Chilean wine industry in today's market, and even the Queen of England.  We hope you enjoy today's episode.  Wine Tasted2004 Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta - Colchagua Valley, Chile    The Spilling the Truth wine blog Episode 12: All about Chile with 2004 Clos Apalta

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien get schooled in wine by chef and restaurant owner Cullen Campbell of Bar Pesce.   Chef Campbell arrived to the show with a bottle of Txakolina, which is 100% Hondurrabi Zuri, and a porron to pour the wine.  After a quick lesson on how to use a porron, chef and the guys skipped the wine talk and went straight to talking about Amaro, Mezcal and Fernet.  This episode is a great look into the mind of a chef/owner and they discuss everything from favorite things to cook to the worst things ever eaten.  They guys cover a lot of topics as this episode is more about having an awesome in depth conversation with a great chef then about the wines themselves.  Drinking amazing wines with friends will often do that to you.  We hope you enjoy and go check out Bar Pesce in Phoenix, AZ Wines Tasted2015 Rocca Altxerri Getariako Txakolina - Basque,Spain2007 Ca'Viola Sottocastello Barolo -  Novello, Italy Bar Pesce3603 E Indian School RdPhoenix, Arizona 85018   Read our The Spilling the Truth wine blogEpisode 11: Txakolina & Barolo with Chef Cullen Campbell of Bar Pesce

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien open a selection of vintage Veuve Clicquot and celebrate episode 10 by welcoming their first guest, James Chau from Strategic Group in Arizona.  James represents some of the top Champagne houses is able to give insight into the region and the history of Veuve Clicquot as well as teach the guys a few things about proper pronunciation of some of the major houses.  The three of them actually stay on topic talking Champagne for most of the show but its easy to keep focused with wines like these.  Damien might still be asking "Can we talk more about the 2008?"  Please enjoy this episode with a glass of Champagne.  Cheers! Wines TastedNV Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne (1998ish) - Riems, FranceNV Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne (Current release) - Riems, France Vintage Brut 2008 Veuve Clicquot Champagne - Riems, France Read our Spilling the Truth wine blogEpisode 10: Vintage Veuve Clicquot with Special Guest

In this episode Jonathan and Damien pop open a 16 year Joseph Phelps Monterey County blend called Le Mistral to see how well it held up.  The discussion however quickly turns into their opinions of all the wine movies and the future of "Hollywood and Vine".  They talk about many of the wine movies such as Sour Grapes, Somm, Bottle Shock, Sideways and The Red Obsession.  Of course the conversation covers everything from "Why tasters often give Bordeaux a free pass" to the farmers of Barbaresco shooting cannons at clouds.  We hope you enjoy the first show of 2019, they had a lot of fun recording it.  Wine Tasted 2002 Joseph Phelps Le Mistral - Monterey County, California     Read our Spilling the Truth wine blogEpisode 9: Hollywood and Vine with a 2002 Joseph Phelps

In this episode, Jonathan and Damien had planned to summarize all the top wine news of 2018 however their conversations takes them down many different paths.  They discuss Campanian red wines, Italian bubbles, and all sorts of weird US wine shipping laws.  The off topic things include everything from to the Music Instrument Museum to Jesus tears.  We hope you enjoy today's episode and we hope you have a very happy New Year  Wines Tasted2009 Terredora DiPaolo Lacryma Christi Del Vesuvio Rosso D.O.C.  - Montefusco, Italy 2009 Terredora DiPaolo Taurasi D.O.C.G - Montefusco, ItalyNV Belstar Prosecco D.O.C. - Veneto, Italy Read our Spilling the Truth wine blogEpisode 8:  New Years with Prosecco and Terredora Taurasi

On today's episode, Jonathan and Damien do their first late night recording and discuss higher end wines and what type of wine to bring to a holiday party.  The guys debate and disagree throughout the episode, proving there is no right answer to the question.  Their conversation covers everything from various ways a person can acquire collector or vintage wines to their biggest pet peeves when ordering off a restaurant reserve list.   Cheers ! Wines Tasted 2005 Groth Cabernet Sauvignon - Oakville - Napa Valley, California 2007 Black Cordon Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa Valley, California 

On today's episode, Jonathan and Damien discuss value wines to bring to a party of non wine professionals while blind tasting a few values themselves.  The conversation today covers everything from our thoughts on vegan and sulfite free wines to our worst auto-correct text mistakes of all time.    Cheers !  Wines Tasted 2008 Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon - Sonoma County, California 2016 Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon - Sonoma County, California  2016 The Velvet Devil Merlot - Washington State   2017 Honoro Vera Garnacha - Calatayud, Spain 

On today's episode, Jonathan and Damien do their first blind tastings of the show.  They discuss how to taste wine, types of oak and what it does to wine, how to identify some varietals and of course some great party idea's associated with blind tastings.  As usual they go off topic and discuss everything from fake id's to pickle-backs.  Cheers !    Wines Tasted 2009 Beaucanon Estate Cabernet Franc - Napa Valley, California   2015 Les Pierres Saint-Amour Cru Beaujolais - Beaujeu, France

On this Episode, Jonathan and Damien discuss using a Coravin to taste bottles of wine, the California fires and smoke taint, red and white zinfandels, the Rutherford Bench, what we consider a 'big wine', the Brunello scandal of '04, what is 'old vine', and many more topics.  As always you never know where the conversation will go.     Wines Tasted:  2015 Scarlett Zinfandel - Napa, California 

On today’s show Jonathan and Damien discuss the importance of the wine importers to help buying foreign wines,  trending varietals on social media, the states with the most (and least) wineries, Phoenix restaurant scene and some of the local restaurant owners we respect.    Wines Tasted; 2016 Argami “Old Vine” Verdejo - Rueda, Spain 2016 Kellermeister Blauer Zweigelt - Niederösterreich, Austria