The Wine Makers on Radio Misfits

A chance meeting led to a very cool show that turned us into total cider freaks. Amie and Lyndon happened to come in for a tasting at Winery Sixteen 600 on their way to a site visit at the local Sonoma Cider Shop, Pomme. They are based in Cedar Grove and Asheville North Carolina and make cider, pet-nat, piquette and wines from local sources. Their energy, enthusiasm and creativity were truly inspiring and everything we tried was amazing. The winery supports local farmers using only sustainably and organically sourced fruits, including blueberries, heirloom apples, and unusual ingredients like hibiscus. The ciders and wines are raw, wild, unrefined, unfiltered, and unpasteurized, allowing customers to feel good about what they're drinking. Ask for them at your local cider shop, or if you live in the south, go check them out, they are constantly doing fun events and pop-ups. [EP 373] Botanistandbarrel.com @botanistandbarrel

Though she carries one of the most prominent last names in modern Napa Valley history, Jamie Araujo didn't grow up a wine brat or even a Napa kid at all. By the time the Araujos purchased the iconic Eisele Vineyard and launched their wine brand, Jamie was already in college on the East Coast. And she kept going east—eventually all the way to London's West End, where she built a career as a professional actor. We sat down with Jamie to talk about her fascinating journey: from theater and television to working with some of the biggest names in wine, and ultimately returning to the family business at Araujo Estate Wines. Along the way, we explored the next chapter for the Araujo family—Accendo Cellars—as well as Jamie's own project, Trois Noix. Most importantly, we discussed how Jamie is working to help shape Napa Valley's future for the better in meaningful ways. So pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine and settle in—you're going to love this story. (Unless your favorite wine happens to be an old Araujo Syrah… in that case, please call us—we'd love to come over and listen with you.) [EP 372] For more visit: accendocellars.com and troisnoixwine.com www.instagram.com/troisnoixwine/ https://www.instagram.com/accendocellars/

What happens when the world's leading non-Japanese Master of Sake Tasting joins forces with three sake brewery presidents and one of the most enthusiastic wine reps in the business? You get a deep, delicious dive into sake that's equal parts educational and intoxicating—in the best way. In this highly anticipated installment, Bella Pearson returns with “the Godfather of Sake” himself, John Gauntner, to walk us through the fascinating world of sake—from the rice fields to the bottle. Gauntner, the only non-Japanese Master of Sake Tasting certified by the Brewing Society of Japan, brings unmatched insight into the complex processes and centuries-old techniques behind Japan's national drink. Alongside Gauntner and Bella, we're joined by sake brewery presidents from Takatenjin, Kawatsuru, and Rihaku, each offering up exquisite pours that showcased the staggering range of flavor profiles—from crisp and clean to rich and unfiltered. Though we barely scratched the surface of this vast and nuanced subject, what we covered was intense, surprising, and nothing short of mind-blowing. [Ep 371] Kampai (乾杯)! Links:John Gauntner – Sake WorldBella Pearson – Kome CollectiveBella on Instagram

Ballentine Vineyards, a Napa Valley staple since 1905, isn't just a winery—it's a living legacy. We dive into the story of a winemaker whose path to the vineyard wasn't exactly a straight line. He started out aiming to be a brewmaster, dabbled in forestry and photography, but ultimately found his groove in Fermentation Science at UC Davis. A globe-spanning exchange program took him to Germany, South Africa, and Australia, shaping his winemaking style before he joined the family operation in 1999. Bruce and his wife Danielle also run their own project, Three Clicks Wines, a nod to the telegram code that signaled the end of Prohibition. A journey filled with science, tradition, and a lot of heart. [Ep 370] ballentinevineyards.com threeclickswines.com

This week, Sam hits the road with MJ Towler—The Black Wine Guy—for a special crossover episode recorded live in New Brunswick, New Jersey. They sit down with legendary restaurateurs and OG podcasters Francis Schott and Mark Pascal, the co-owners of Stage Left Steak and Catherine Lombardi, and hosts of The Restaurant Guys podcast. Long before podcasts went mainstream, Francis and Mark were pioneering thoughtful, unpretentious conversations in food, wine, and hospitality, straight from their corner of the Garden State. Sam and MJ dive deep into Francis and Mark's early days in the restaurant industry, the dramatic evolution of hospitality, and how New Brunswick emerged as an unexpected—and underrated—food and wine hotspot. The conversation also revisits the wild, early days of podcasting, raising a glass to names like DiSpirito, Trotter, and Bourdain. With behind-the-scenes restaurant stories, old-school podcast wisdom, and heartfelt reminders about the timeless power of passion and hospitality, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Guests Francis Schott and Mark Pascal join co-hosts Sam Coturri and MJ Towler (The Black Wine Guy, Beats Vines & Life) for this special collaboration.

Cathy Corison is a legend, pioneer, and true trailblazer in the California wine industry. In the 1970s, when most women were limited to lab work, Cathy set her sights on winemaking. She earned her place at Freemark Abbey and Yverdon, eventually becoming head winemaker at Chappellet in 1980. While the wine world leaned toward big, bold, hedonistic Napa Cabernets, Cathy stayed true to her vision—crafting restrained, elegant wines that initially flew under the radar of critics like Robert Parker. Today, under her own label, Corison, Cathy is celebrated as one of California's most respected producers. Joining the conversation is Grace Corison, Cathy's daughter and the future face of Corison Winery. Grace played a key role in getting their vineyards certified organic—a recognition of practices they'd followed for years. She recognized the importance of official certification for transparency and for connecting with a younger generation of wine drinkers. Also joining us is Anna Brittain, Executive Director of Napa Green, who organized the annual RISE Symposium, where both Cathy and Grace will serve as keynote speakers this year. RISE is one of the most impactful events in the wine industry, bringing attention to sustainability and climate action through education, leadership, and collaboration. Learn more at: risegreen.org corison.com Hope to see you at RISE!

What began with a few DMs dunking on misleading “cover crop” Instagram posts—or maybe even earlier, on Napa Valley school bus rides more than 25 years ago—has grown into something much bigger: a groundbreaking tasting event focused on the future of responsible winegrowing. In this first-ever crossover episode of The Wine Makers Podcast and Bedrock Conversations, Katie Bundschu, Morgan Twain-Peterson MW, and Sam Coturri join Chris Cotrell, Alli Badar, Brian Casey, and Bart Hansen to introduce S.O.R.B.E.T.—the Sonoma Organic Regenerative Biodynamic Education Tasting. This inaugural event celebrates Sonoma Valley's critical role in sustainable and ecological winegrowing—past, present, and future. The only two rules for participation: 1) Wines must be farmed organically, regeneratively, or biodynamically. 2) Wines must come from Sonoma Valley. The result? A dynamic mix of wineries—from garagistes to corporate producers, from emerging natural wine stars to established legacy brands—offering everything from edgy small-batch bottles to ultra-premium pours. The crew shares the origin of the event, what it means for the region, and why this kind of collective action is more important than ever. [EP 367] Save the Date: August 17th at Fort Mason, San Francisco. Get tickets here: Eventbrite – S.O.R.B.E.T. Follow along: @s.o.r.b.e.tasting @bedrockwines @abbotspassage @sixteen600 Winemakers interested in participating: Reach out for an application—we'd love to have you join.

This week on the podcast, we welcome Anna Brittain from Napa Green to talk about the upcoming Napa RISE Symposium. Napa Green is a global leader in sustainable winegrowing, known for setting the highest standards for sustainability and climate action in the wine industry. The organization provides wineries and vineyards with the tools, resources, and certification pathways needed to level up leadership from soil to bottle. The Napa RISE event series is designed to drive real sustainability and climate action across the entire wine industry and culture. Joining Anna are two RISE Leadership Award winners: Gita Mallya, Viticulturist and de facto Sustainability Lead at Domaine Carneros, who shares insights about their RISE Leadership Award for Energy, including their cutting-edge microgrid system. Sarah Richmond, Director of Operations at Clif Family, who discusses their RISE Leadership Award for Supply Chain, highlighting efforts like completing a full emissions inventory, switching to

Live at The Vine Club in Atlanta with Kelly Cornett, Sam Coturri, Eric Crane, and Taylor Sublett. This episode was recorded live at The Vine Club in Atlanta, GA, the Tuesday evening before the annual High Museum Wine Auction, as a crossover episode with Kelly Cornett of The Cork and the Road Podcast. Sam was visiting Atlanta, and we threw a "Tie Dye Before the High" bottle share and vinyl party to celebrate a bunch of people who make the Atlanta wine community so vibrant. We sat down with Eric Crane, the Director of Training for Empire Distributors, and Taylor Sublett, the owner of The Vine Club, who hooked up his space for the party. Even though we are on Kelly's turf, we brought the wine makers podcast style and had a great Atlanta time. Dig in for Eric Crane's deep Grateful Dead knowledge, Taylor's unique wine club rules, and Kelly's trademark enthusiasm for all things wine and Atlanta related. You can follow @acorkintheroad @sixteen600 @chauneuf and @thevineclubatl on Instagram. Recorded LIVE at The Vine Club on March 18, 2025

This week, we're tasting Bart's Spring Releases from Dane Cellars. The only question is—will the Spring Offering hit your inbox just in time to match the release of this episode? We also opened the floor to the greatest fandom in podcast land and, as always, you came through with some excellent listener questions. And yes, there was a Signal text chain... let's just say it ended in a lot of enthusiastic reactions. Check out the new wines at www.danecellars.com

Wines of California with Elaine Chukan Brown (aka Hawk Wakawaka) If you've been listening for a while, you know that when Friend of the Pod Elaine Chukan Brown—aka the legendary Hawk Wakawaka (or “Chuckavaka,” if you're in the know)—is asked to write a book on a topic as broad as Wines of California, it's not going to be your typical “Zinfandel was first planted in 18-blah-blah-di-blah” wine book. In this episode, Bart and Sam sit down with Elaine to talk about their new book, Wines of California, coming next month from Académie du Vin Library. Elaine delivers a powerful, deeply researched take on the history of California wine—connecting the evolution of wine in the Golden State to larger patterns in American history, global politics, and cultural change. With her trademark no-nonsense honesty, Elaine has written what might be called a tough-love letter to California wine—celebrating its innovation, leadership, and resilience while challenging the industry to reckon with its past and navigate the future. We dive into: The real history of California wine The people, varietals, and regions that shaped it Surprises Elaine uncovered during their research How wine growers and producers can use history to tackle today's challenges Whether you're a winemaker, wine lover, or wine industry professional, this episode is packed with insights that will enrich your love of California wine. Pre-order Wines of California now through Bookshop.org and support your local independent bookstore. Elaine Chukan Brown Instagram: @hawk_wakawaka Académie du Vin Library Instagram: @academieduvinlibrary Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help more people discover real conversations about wine, history, and the people shaping the future of the industry.

This week, we sit down with Laurent Gomez from Domaine du Val des Rois, a winery whose name translates to "Valley of the King," paying tribute to Valréas' rich winemaking history, first planted in the 9th century by King Charlemagne. Val des Rois is a 10-hectare estate in Côtes du Rhône, originally planted in 1965 by 9th-generation Burgundian winemaker Romain Bouchard. Located on the northern edge of the Southern Rhône in Valréas, the vineyard benefits from its unique altitude and southeast exposure, cooling nightly air from the Alps, and soils rich in limestone and deep clay. These natural conditions lead to wines with exceptionally high acidity, setting them apart from the typical Southern Rhône profile. At the hands of legendary winemaker Stéphane Vedeau, Val des Rois produces truly distinctive wines. We had the pleasure of tasting: A White Blend, An 80-year-old vine Grenache, A Grenache/Syrah blend, All wines are aged in concrete, giving them purity, vibrancy, and a true homage to their varietals. A big thanks to Bella Pearson from Vine Connections for introducing us to this incredible producer. Val des RoisVine Connections

Our friend Bella Pearson from Vine Connections introduced us to Ben Gordon from J. Bouchon Family Winery this week, and we were immediately intrigued by their deep history of farming Pais—known as Mission here in California. The Bouchon family's winemaking story began in the late 19th century when young viticulturist Emile Bouchon left Bordeaux, France, for Chile. Today, Julio Bouchon and his children continue the family's fourth-generation winemaking tradition in the Maule Valley, blending deep soil research with innovative techniques to craft distinctive, terroir-driven wines that honor the region's rich history. One of the most fascinating aspects of their vineyards is how Pais grows up the trees along the vineyard's edge, creating a stunning visual that had us imagining climbing ladders to harvest the grapes—definitely not OSHA-approved here in California! [Ep361] Check out more about their wines and history:J. Bouchon Family WinesVine Connections

This week, we had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Sophia Quercioli from Podere Le Ripi in Montalcino, Italy. Known for producing exceptional Sangiovese, the winery is farmed biodynamically by a team of young, passionate, and slightly crazy individuals. Founded in 1998 by Francesco Illy, Podere Le Ripi is home to one of the most fascinating vineyards in the world—the Bonsai Vineyard, a high-density planting that defies conventional wisdom. Their gravity-fed crush facility and cellar took eight people four years and 250,000 bricks to construct, a testament to the dedication and artistry behind their winemaking. “We don't like to define where a vineyard begins and ends, because everything we do is based on an approach that considers what surrounds us in its entirety. Vineyards, woods, olive trees, gullies, rivers, all this is our ecosystem, and we want to take care of it without separating nature on the basis of production class. We accompany 34 hectares of vineyards inserted in a setting at least 4 times larger.” The wines were absolutely stunning, and we'd like to extend a special thanks to Heather Gordon from DarkStar Imports for making the introduction. A heartfelt shoutout also goes to Chavo and Giulia, who weren't on this trip but hold a special place in our hearts. [Ep 360] Podere Le Ripi@podereleripiDarkStar Imports

Fresh from the DTC Conference and Unified Symposium, the guys sit down with two out-of-state winemakers who are making waves in their regions. Todd Bostock – Dos Cabezas WineWorks, Sonoita, Arizona Since 1995, Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been growing grapes and crafting wines in Southern Arizona. The winery and its 80 acres of vineyard were pioneered by the late visionary Al Buhl. Todd joined the team as winemaker in 2002, and by the end of 2006, the Bostock family took over operations. Dos Cabezas sources high-quality fruit from its two estate vineyards: Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita and Cimarron Vineyard in the Kansas Settlement. Curious about what grapes thrive in Arizona's unique climate? Todd shares his insight on growing and making wine in the desert. Dos Cabezas WineWorks - Website - Instagram Kent Foulker – Cedar Ridge Winery, Swisher, Iowa The Quint family has a long history of farming and distilling spirits, and in 2005, Jeff Quint founded Cedar Ridge with a mission to put Iowa bourbon on the map. As the first licensed distillery in Iowa since Prohibition, Cedar Ridge released its first batch of whiskey in 2010 and quickly became a leader in craft spirits. But Iowa isn't just about corn. Kent Foulker dives into what it takes to grow grapes and produce wine in the heart of the Midwest, and how Cedar Ridge balances both wine and whiskey under one roof. Cedar Ridge Winery - Website - Instagram Tap your play button for a fascinating conversation about winemaking in unexpected places, the challenges and rewards of working in non-traditional wine regions, and how passion drives these winemakers to create something truly unique. [Ep 359]

The Marathon – Winemakers, Industry Leaders & The Reason for the Season, Steve Gross In our final dispatch from the 2025 DTC Wine Symposium, we sat down with industry leaders, keynote speakers, and winemakers from across the country to explore the biggest conversations happening in the wine world. The highlight, as always, was Steve Gross from the Wine Institute, the foremost expert on wine shipping regulations. If you're a winemaker who relies on direct-to-consumer sales or a wine lover who enjoys having bottles shipped straight to your door, you have Steve to thank—and y'all better go to Free the Grapes and sign up now! This episode is packed with countless insights, deep discussions, and incredible guests. Dust off a bottle (or two), settle in, and get ready—this one is an epic. The Guest Rundown: Rishad Tobaccowala – AI expert, futurist, thought leader, and author focusing on marketing and the future of work—now a bona fide friend of the pod. Substack Website LinkedIn Instagram Book: Rethinking Work Susan Kostrzewa – Acclaimed wine writer and editor with extensive industry experience. Website LinkedIn Instagram Jason Haas – Our longtime inspiration and friend. Partner and General Manager of Tablas Creek Vineyard, advocate for organic farming. Website Instagram Blog Steve Gross – The great and powerful Vice President of State Relations at the Wine Institute, focusing on industry policies. Website Jessah Diaz – Director of Direct-to-Consumer Sales at Cakebread Cellars. Website Instagram Susan DeMatei – Founder of WineGlass Marketing, specializing in digital and DTC wine sales. Website Instagram Kasey Helt – Director of Hospitality at Center of Effort Wines. Website Instagram Anne Zwink – Winemaker at Soldier Creek Winery in Iowa. She heard last year's show and came to the conference this year. It's working! Website Instagram Anne Robie – Writer, speaker, and leadership expert focusing on workplace culture. Website Stephanie Wycoff – General Manager of Gary Farrell Winery in Sonoma. Website Instagram An essential listen for winemakers, industry insiders, and anyone passionate about the future of direct-to-consumer wine sales.

The DTC Wine Symposium Podcast Extravaganza – Part 2: The Wines and the People of Monterey County Okay, we admit it—we're Sonoma homers. Occasionally, we branch out and interview someone from Napa (gasp!). But despite our regional prejudices, the growers and winemakers of Monterey County welcomed the podcast crew—not to mention 700+ DTC Wine Symposium attendees—with open arms! Jokes aside, the Monterey County wine community were fantastic hosts all week long. We were lucky enough to sit down with friend of the pod, Adam Lee—a longtime proponent of Monterey fruit—and let him guide us through a fascinating conversation with some luminaries of the Monterey wine scene. Adam introduced us to legendary grower Gary Franscioni, owner of ROAR Wines, who helped develop and farm the vineyards that put the Santa Lucia Highlands on the winemaking map. We also met Sabrine Rodems, winemaker at the acclaimed Wrath Wines and owner/winemaker of Scratch Wines—an awesome lineup of wines that scratched an itch for the acid-driven, racy wine lovers among us. And we spoke with Rhonda Motil, VP of Marketing at J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, a family-owned winery with deep roots in the region. Jerry Lohr was one of the first to believe in Monterey's potential back in the early ‘70s, and today, J. Lohr continues to produce intricate, terroir-driven wines from over 4,000 planted acres. Of course, this was just a fraction of Monterey County's wine story. Steeped in agricultural history, the Salinas River Valley and surrounding hillsides make up one of the most important farming regions in the country—possibly the world. We learned about the power of the Monterey Canyon, the vast and deep submarine trench off the coast that plays a defining role in the region's climate. We also explored the rapid shifts in temperature, soil composition, and terroir that unfold as you travel north-south and east-west across this fertile wonderland. All in all, we hope we didn't make total fools of ourselves—because the wines were beautiful, the vineyards were stunning, and the people were fantastic. Here's hoping they invite us back! Monterey Vintners Rhonda Motil VP of Marketing – J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines Website | Instagram Adam Lee Clarice Wine Company | Journalist, North Bay Business Journal Website | Clarice Wine Company Instagram | Instagram Gary Franscioni Owner – ROAR Wines Website | Instagram Sabrine Rodems Owner & Winemaker – Scratch Wines | Winemaker – Wrath Wines Scratch Wines | Instagram Wrath Wines | Instagram

We kicked off our annual pilgrimage to the DTC Wine Symposium with one of the biggest names in wine: Karen MacNeil. Yes, the Karen MacNeil—winner of nearly every major wine writing award, founder of the Culinary Institute of America's Professional Wine Program, Stanford University wine educator, and global authority on all things wine. You know her from WineSpeed in your inbox, from PBS and Netflix in your living room, and from Come Over October, a movement championing wine's place in culture. And, of course, she's the author of The Wine Bible—Volumes 1 through 3, with Volume 4 in the works. But behind the accolades is an incredible story: a determined high school runaway who discovered wine through an $0.89 Bulgarian jug red, bootstrapped her way through college working in restaurants, launched her food and wine writing career at just 19, and bulldozed her way to the top of New York's wine world. It was fascinating, inspiring, and educational—the perfect way to start our epic week in Monterey. KarenMacNeil.com @KarenMacNeilCo ComeOverOctober.com @ComeOverOctober

Professor Phil  wrapped up teaching a master class in regenerative organic agriculture to a group of Harvard and MIT grad students at Liquid Sky Vineyard in Sonoma's Moon Mountain AVA. After experiencing firsthand the vineyards and tasting the wine they helped study, John sat down with the students to discuss how they plan to take the principles of regenerative organic farming into the world through their future careers. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of some of the brightest and most innovative thinkers in agriculture today. Tune in and enjoy!

This week, we had the pleasure of sitting down with winemaker Isabel Gassier and viticulturist Phil Coturri to discuss their collaborative project, À Deux Têtes, which began in 2017 with the late, renowned French winemaker Philippe Cambie. Isabel has been crafting wine simultaneously at her family's Domaine Gassier in France and Sonoma's Winery Sixteen600, where all the grapes are organically farmed under Phil's care. Together, Phil and Isabel share insights into their approach and decisions for the challenging 2022 vintage. They discuss the new releases of Oakville and Rossi Ranch Grenache, as well as the 2023 Rosé of Grenache, offering a rare glimpse into the collaboration between grower and winemaker. It's an engaging conversation about their shared philosophy, their passion for organic farming, and the exciting results of their partnership. [Ep 354] Follow their work: @domainegassier @enterprisevineyards @isabelgassierwine @winerysixteen600

Adam Frisch, a Los Angeles-based cinematographer, took an unconventional path to winemaking, diving in with no formal training to produce wines from historic varieties like Flame Tokay and Mission. Adam's approach to winemaking is as bold as it is thoughtful. “I tend to go for more restrained oak usage for the best expression, but I'm not opposed to oak if the wine demands it (and some do). My wines are typically bone dry, naturally fermented, with no added chemicals, and low in sulfites. I try not to filter or fine.” We love passionate and adventurous winemakers like Adam, who defy trends and follow their dreams with reckless abandon. His portfolio is diverse, fascinating, and utterly delicious. Adam joined us for this episode after being evacuated due to the fires in Southern California—proof of his dedication to his craft. You can find his wines through his website or follow his journey on social media. [Ep353] Check them out: Sabelli-Frisch.com Instagram: @sabellifrisch

This week, we spoke with Martha Stoumen, a winemaker crafting unique wines from the warmer regions of Northern California. For the past decade, she has been building her own label and gaining attention with her eye-catching designs and surprising grape varietals. Her commitment to sustainable farming has set her apart, appealing to wine lovers who value quality and ethics. With a focus on natural acidity, her wines remain fresh, vibrant, and incredibly drinkable. Martha spent eight years apprenticing around the world before launching her own journey as a winemaker. Starting as a self-funded, first-generation vintner, her goal was to answer a simple question: “What does California taste like?” She believes Mediterranean grapes thrive in Northern California's warm climate, allowing her to create joyful, balanced wines. Her unexpected varietals and fresh takes on California classics offer something truly unique. “We do things the right way,” Martha says, “even if it's not the easiest or coolest way.” Every year, Martha produces nearly two dozen wines. The blends and flavors may change, but her dedication to natural winemaking stays the same. Her wines are a celebration of the simple pleasures of drinking something authentic and thoughtfully made. This conversation offers a fascinating look at Martha's vision and her quest to showcase the best of California winemaking. If you're passionate about wine, don't miss it! [Ep 352] marthastoumen.com @marthastoumen  

When we last checked in on Gloria Ferrer, the winery was undergoing a significant transition. With a new general manager in place, they were moving toward organic farming across their 300 acres, while also preparing for the retirement of their original winemaker and vineyard manager. Enter viticulturist Brad Kurtz, who not only spearheaded the shift to organic farming but also took a deep dive into re-evaluating every block of their estate vineyards—matching clones and rootstocks to specific soils for optimal results. In early 2024, Kyle Altomare joined as Director of Winemaking. With experience at Raventos Codorniu and as Associate Winemaker for Artesa Vineyards, Kyle is now instrumental in crafting Gloria Ferrer's sparkling wines and elevating the style and prestige of their estate. The goal: to refine and develop a signature house style defined by the purity of estate-grown fruit. As this is the final show of the year, we encourage you to open a bottle of bubbles—preferably one made right here in California—and raise a glass to the bright future of California wine. Thank you all for your amazing support of the podcast. Here's to a sparkling 2024. Happy New Year [Ep 351] gloriaferrer.com

Brooke Delmas Robertson is one of our favorite people, and for good reason. Her Delmas SJR Vineyard Syrah was just named #10 on Jeb Dunnuck's Top 100 Wines of 2024, and shortly after, her Viognier earned a spot in Decanter's Top 50. Her family has been raising the bar in the Rocks District of Walla Walla for years, producing only about 1000 cases annually—flying under the radar, but with outstanding quality. Brooke's commitment to sustainability and family legacy shines through in her approach: “We want our vines to outlive us and be sustainable and strong for generations to come. That expectation requires daily oversight and a commitment to sustainability and healthy plants,” she says. “The driving vision to create a small, family-estate operation has been a family dream since my brother and I were kids. My work on behalf of the estate will continue to be a tribute to my late brother, whom the vineyard is named after. To life!” In addition to her winemaking, Brooke serves on the Board of Directors of the Oregon Winegrower Association, representing Eastern Oregon. She's a Level One Mentor with Bâtonnage (Women in Wine) and founded the Vineyard Technical Group for the Walla Walla Valley, partnering with Oregon State University and the Rocks District Winegrowers to provide ongoing education for wine growers in the region. We highly recommend getting your hands on these wines, especially the Viognier and SJR Vineyard Syrah. Better yet, plan a trip to Walla Walla, Washington, and see firsthand the incredible work being done there. [Ep350] www.delmaswines.com @delmas_sjrvineyard

Stuart Spencer began his career with the Lodi Winegrape Commission in 1999 as the Program Manager where he was instrumental in conceptualizing and guiding many of the region's successful marketing, research and education, and sustainable viticulture programs, including LODI RULES. His passion for Historic Vineyards runs deep and his knowledge of the local history in Lodi is impressive. Stuart wrote an article in March of this year that highlighted the growing concerns over foreign bulk wines flooding the California wine industry that is truly shocking. www.lodigrowers.com/imported-foreign-bulk-wine-the-dirty-secret-no-one-in-california-wine-is-talking-about Stuart also is the winemaker for St. Amant Wine, his family winery that first planted grapes in Amador County back in the eighties, then went on to make wines in Lodi. We had the opportunity to try some of his wines and they were “off the charts” amazing. Enjoy the show and pick up some of his wines. www.stamantwine.com @st.amant_wine

After first dipping his toes in the wine industry in the Shenandoah Valley of western Virginia, Matt Crutchfield's passion for wine truly blossomed in Charleston, South Carolina. Working in wine bars and retail shops allowed him to dive deep into the seemingly endless rabbit hole of wine knowledge. Initially, he planned to work a single harvest in Sonoma County to gain firsthand experience in winemaking before returning to hospitality in Charleston. But after four harvests in Sonoma and another in New Zealand, it became clear that winemaking had completely captivated him. Instead of heading back to Charleston, Matt fully embraced the craft. Now the Assistant Winemaker at Ryme Cellars, he has been encouraged by owners Ryan and Megan to create some of his own wines. Inspired by Ryme's skin-fermented styles, Matt has produced two chenin blancs—one fermented on the skins and one without—showcasing his unique approach to the varietal. Enjoy our conversation with Matt and be sure to check out his wines! [Ep348] https://www.mattcrutchfieldwines.com/ @mattcrutchfieldwines  

We were joined by the lovely Patrizia and Romano Chiari of Tenuta l'Impostino in Tuscany. Crafting organic Sangiovese blends using biodynamic principles for over 20 years, their wines are a testimony to the tradition and innovation of a lesser-known corner of Tuscan viticulture, Montecucco. tenutaimpostino.it @tenutaimpostinowinery

This week on the podcast we have Ray Isle the Executive Wine Editor of Food & Wine and the Wine & Spirits Editor of Travel + Leisure. His articles about wine, beer, food and spirits have appeared in a wide range of national publications. He speaks regularly on wine at events around the country and is a frequent guest on national media, appearing on programs such as NBC's Today, CBS Mornings, CNBC's Squawk Box and many others. With those qualifications you might ask, what's he doing on The WineMakers Podcast...We were able to catch him while he was in Sonoma County while he was promoting his recent book The World in a Wineglass. Enjoy this great conversation that we had with Ray covering all sorts of current topics in the wine business. [Ep346] Follow his wine exploits on Instagram @rayisle  

Aaron Pott is a true legend in wine country. Starting his career at newton Vineyards in Napa, he left the U.S. for a position as winemaker at Château Troplong-Mondot, a Premier Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Émilion, France. Aaron then moved to Château Troplong- Mondont after a year to become director at Château La Tour Figeac, a Grand Cru Classé located in Saint-Emilion. He spent five years there and, in the process, earned a degree in Viticulture from the Université de Bourgogne in Dijon, France. Aaron eventually returned to Napa and accepted the position of head winemaker in charge of international brands for Beringer before taking over as general manager and winemaker at Quintessa in 2004. After buying a piece of property on Mt. Veeder, Aaron and his wife Claire started Pott Wines, making Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Grenache. He continues to consult for numerous wineries, when he's not surfing or watching soccer. All the wines are stellar, but that Zinfandel and Cabernet Franc are still on my mind. [Ep345] pottwine.com @aaron_pott

This week on the podcast we welcome The River Club, a collaborative wine tasting space brought to you by two family-owned wineries, Belong Wine Co. and Paper Planes Wine Co. Just south of downtown Napa off the beaten path along the river in Napa's Tannery District this hidden gem offers epic river views and a refreshingly modern tasting experience. Sourcing from vineyard sites from the Sonoma Coast to the Sierra Foothills, they met in Napa where they became friends in 2017 and soon began making their wines at the same winery. Realizing their shared passion, they were determined to open a space where they could share their wines that exemplify their spirit of exploration and sense of community. A great conversation about not only these two distinct wine companies but also about opening a tasting room with a modern look and feeling. Check out this episode and make a reservation to go tasting at The River Club soon. [Ep344] https://www.exploretock.com/riverclubnapa https://www.paperplaneswine.com/ https://belongwines.com/

Isabel Gassier is in Sonoma this week for one of her semi-annual visits to taste and blend the Sixteen 600 and À Deux Têtes wines. Naturally, we had to ask her—how are the vineyards looking in France? Isabel is joined by Jack Sporer of Fres.co wines and our very own Phil Coturri. Together, they opened some old wines and some brand-new ones, letting the conversation flow. There's plenty of harvest wrap-up, vineyard talk, and fascinating blending discussion. Plus, we tease an exciting new collaboration wine between Fres.co and Sixteen 600. And most importantly... GO VOTE! [Ep 343]

Peter Mathis, an old friend of the podcast and an extraordinary winemaker, stopped by the Sixteen 600 Tasting House this week to update us on his new releases and share stories from his life working alongside Joel Peterson to build the Ravenswood brand, as well as his experiences in Sonoma County Wine. Enjoy as we hear Peter's fascinating stories and taste a bottle of his 2010 Grenache and his 2020 UberBlend. Sit back, pour a glass, and enjoy! [Ep342] mathiswine.com

Harvest is in full swing here in Sonoma, the guys take a moment to discuss how things are going, what to expect, and how the wines are tasting so far. The weather has been almost perfect, but a heat spike in the last few days may have affected some of the fruit, Sam has been out there every morning and weighs in on the issues. A compacted growing season has wine makers jockeying for tank space and press time, let's see what the guys have to say. [Ep341] danecellars.com winerysixteen600.com

Paul Grieco has a storied career in wine and hospitality, beginning in his family's Italian restaurant in Toronto and working his way to the heights of Manhattan dining rooms. He worked with the famed Danny Meyer and the-now celebrity chef Tom Colicchio when they opened the fabled Gramercy Tavern where Paul began as a server and eventually became beverage director. Despite all the accolades that come with hallowed halls of fine dining, Paul is most revered acclaimed and revolutionary wine bar Terroir and its now legendary Summer of Riesling. The guys had a chance to sit down with Paul and Tanner Walle of Valley Bar and Bottle when the Summer of Riesling hit Sonoma. We discuss the state of wine and hospitality in wide ranging and appropriately non-linear conversation. In short, the Summer of Riesling collided with International Grenache Day as we approached the Autumnal Equinox on the back porch of the tasting house…and the results are spectacular. [Ep340]

Bibiana is an absolute powerhouse in the wine industry, and we've been fans since she first appeared on the podcast 6 or 7 years ago. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Raised in Medellin, Colombia, she dreamed of making wine as a teenager in a country with no real wine culture. Determined, she moved to France, graduated with honors from the University of Bordeaux, and went on to work at prestigious estates like Haut-Brion. She gained experience in Cote-Rotie with Michel and Stephane Ogier and Domaine Clusel-Roch, then moved to Alsace, Burgundy, South Africa, and finally, California. In California, she worked for renowned wineries such as Peay, Qupe, Au Bon Climat, Lynmar, and Pahlmeyer before establishing her own labels: Cattleya and Alma de Cattleya. She also co-founded Shared Notes with her husband Jeff Pisoni—yes, that Pisoni. On top of her winemaking success, Bibiana now imports coffee from Colombia to roast in Sonoma County for a dedicated customer base. Oh, and did we mention she's also a mother of two? Her wines are remarkable, known for their generous acidity, depth, and length. She was recently featured in *Sonoma Magazine*, where she was photographed by James Joiner, with the photos even developed in her favorite wine. If you haven't tried her wines yet, you're missing out! [Ep339] winesbybibiana.com cattleyawines.com sharednoteswine.com sonomamag.com

Founded in 2011 by journeyman cellar hand and self-taught Winemaker Chris Christensen, Bodkin Wines disrupted the sparkling wine scene with America's First Sparkling Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc in 2012. With one foot rooted in wine science and the other in craftsman- ship, Christensen's minimalist philosophy guides his signature style of high acid, low alcohol wines. These wines have garnered over two dozen 90+ point scores in critical review over the past 8 years alone. In addition to being named as a ‘Winemaker to Watch' by Esther Mobley of the SF Chronicle in 2017, Christensen was also selected to the Wine Enthusiasts' 40 Under 40 Tastemakers list for 2020. As an African-American winemaker Christensen works to promote diversity and inclusion in the wine industry through speaking engagements, podcasts and mentorship opportunities for aspiring vintners and winery owners. [Ep 338]

Harvest has begun and Sonoma Magazine has a beautifully put together Harvest Issue featuring many of the "Grand Cru Vineyards" of Sonoma County, their sense of place, history and future. Joining forces with renowned Photographer James Joiner, Abby presents intimate portraits of wine-making and winemakers here in Sonoma Co. Also joining us was Marrielle Tinsley, well-known photographer and winemaker in Sonoma. It's all about sense of place and Sonoma Magazine curates these stunning images 6 times a year.  It's a well done publication and you can order this issue and others by emailing Abby at abigail.peterson@sonomamag.com [Ep 337]

Rodrigo's interest in organic farming began at the Universidad Catôlica in Santiago, where he wrote his thesis on organic pest control. This paper led him to work with some esteemed leaders in the world of organic grape growing, including Alvaro Espinoza, Alan York, Ann Kramer, and Paul Dolan and Mike Benziger. After working as Director of Winemaking at Benziger he returned to Chile In 2012. Huneenus Vintners hired Rodrigo to convert four Chilean wineries and vineyards to organic and biodynamic farming. Next working for the Huneenus family at Quintessa in Napa Valley. But his time working in Sonoma made him think about all the mountain vineyards that he wasn't familiar with, which is when Far Mountain was conceived.  "Far Mountain, describes the vineyard sites we work with and the greater settings in which those vineyards lie. There is a beautiful symmetry in these places, in that they are not only special sites for wine growing, but places we are physically drawn to because of their splendor." [Ep336] farmountainwine.com @farmountainwine

This week the guys are joined by four farmers fighting for the future of Sonoma County agriculture. A ballot measure has qualified in Sonoma County, sold as ban on “factory farms”, but in reality will have ripple effects that threaten all ag in the county, including grapes and wine. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Doug Beretta from the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, Bronte Edwards from Rainbow Family Ranch, Loren Poncia from Stemple Creek Ranch and longtime friend of the pod Jennifer Reichardt from Liberty Ducks. Why are we talking about cows, sheep, ducks and chickens on a wine show? Because Sonoma County's farms and farmers don't exist in their own silos, they are part of an interconnected and symbiotic ecosystem and foodshed. And by golly there's a shit shortage! Tune in, register to vote and if you're in Sonoma County vote NO on J! [Ep335] Doug Beretta sonomafb.org @sonomacountyfarmbureau Bronte Edwards rainbowfamilyranching.com @sister_b_loves_food Loren Poncia stemplecreek.com @stemplecreek Jennifer Reichardt libertyducks.com drink.raft.wine @jenniferreichardt No on Measure J Resources- noonmeasurej.com @noonmeasurej foodandfamilyfarms.com/ @foodandfamilyfarms

This week we sit down with Barbara Gorder and Brian Baker, veterans of the wine & spirits industry focused on sales and marketing. We discuss the current state of the U.S. wine industry and the challenges that many of us are facing in a rapidly changing climate. But don't worry, they brought solutions. There is a lot of good info here for business owners and consumers. All of their contact info and assets are listed below so you can reach out and get involved. Remember - Wine is Cool !!! [Ep334] Brian Baker Cultivar Marketing Website: https://cultivarmarketing.com/ Email: brian@cultivarmarketing.com Phone: (707) 363-5931 Barbara Gorder Undisclosed Location Website: www.unlo.com Email:Barbara.gorder@unlo.com Phone: 312.972.2833  (PT) Direct to Consumer Wine Symposium Join us for the best DTC Wine education and networking in the business. https://dtcwinesymposium.com/ January 21-23 Hyatt Regency Monterey, CA Early Bird Tickets on Sale now until November 1, 2024 Pass My Glass Wine Co-op program for 2025 Be a part of raising sales in the wine industry via OTT/CTV. Click Here

Isabella Morano knew she wanted to make wine as a child on a family trip to Italy, identifying with how folks in her ancestral homeland connected over food and wine. However back home in Wisconsin, the only thing keeping teenage Isabella's wine dreams alive was Anthony Bourdain TV shows. As soon as she was able she moved to California and started working her way up the wine ladder. Now she has several vintages of Isa Wines under her belt, specializing in vibrant Sauvignon Blancs, and a new vineyard planted in Majorca, Spain. Check out drinkisawines and @isa.wines on Instagram. [Ep333]

Marvella Castaneda is a Sommelier and artist from Atlanta that we met in Georgia last year. She had just left a restaurant called Lazy Betty, which received a Michelin star the week we landed. Currently in the middle of opening a new hotel in Atlanta, she took a week off to visit California's newest AVA, the West Sonoma Coast, and spend time with some of the "coolest" growers and wine makers in the AVA. We coaxed her into stopping by to share her experience. As a special bonus, she walked in with Scott Kirkpatrick, some may remember him as the wine maker for Mountain Tides, a project that focused on Petite Sirah. Scott is now the wine maker at Dancing Crow Vineyards in Mendocino County.  [Ep332] If you would like to see Marvella's artwork, you can follow her @drawntowine @marvellacastaneda @cellaringscott

Kieran Robinson started his journey in the finger lakes of Upstate New York. He took the opportunity to move to France and work for Pierre Gaillard, cementing his passion for Rhone varietals. Kieran returned to the US and took positions at Cakebread Cellars, Paul Hobbs and Jericho Canyon. He then decided to go out on his own, founding R Five Wines, specializing in Grenache, Syrah and Viognier. Now Kieran and his wife Kristie have opened up a tasting room and wine bar in his hometown Downingtown Pennsylvania, serving California wines with a “Philly” vibe. We tasted through the 2021 wines and they are amazing, truly set apart by their 100% stem inclusion. Available on their website. [Ep331] Rfivewines.com @Kieran_Robinson_Wines

Ross Cobb makes world-class Pinot Noir & Chardonnay from vineyards that are only 3-5 miles from the Pacific Ocean in Northern California. The extreme weather conditions and his numerous trips to Burgundy have definitely shaped his style, along with his previous positions at Williams Selyem and Hirsch. His parents purchased property at the coast in the late 80's and Ross has since become an expert in cool climate farming. His other passions include skateboarding, collecting vinyl and playing guitar. Cobb wines are featured at the best restaurants in California and New York, we were lucky enough to try the new 21 vintages. [Ep330] If you love Pinot Noir, you gotta check out these wines, available through their website. cobbwines.com @cobbwines @rosskcobb

The Robledo family started farming in Sonoma County in the 1940's. Hard work and perseverance enabled the Robledo family to eventually purchase their own vineyards and start their own winery. Vanessa has now started her own project with her daughter Jocelyn and mother Maria called Vintner's Diary. Their first wine is a Rose of Grenache from Napa. Daughter Jocelyn is creating videos that feature her grandmother Maria making traditional Mexican food to pair with their wines. We were lucky enough to get some guacamole and salsa made that morning from ingredients out of her own garden. [Ep329] Vintnersdiary.com @vintnersdiary

The guys sit down with local Sonoma County Winemaker, Mark Lyon this week. Mark is a fixture in Sonoma wine-making circles as he was Winemaker at Sebastiani for years and years. Now he is headlong into his own lifelong passion of his own brand, Eco Terreno, organic and fully regenerative farming, creating beautiful whites and reds from the Alexander Valley along the Russian River. [Ep328] ecoterreno.com @ecoterrenowines

Sam, Bart, and James Joiner sit down with Gundlach Bundschu CEO Jeff Bundschu, Sustainability Manager Meghan Murphy, Winemaker Joe Uhr, and special guest Phil Coturri to discuss how and why the 160-year-old brand pursued becoming fully Regenerative Organic Certified. They delve into the regenerative process and how it has impacted the vineyards, wines, and the company as a whole. The conversation also covers the brand's rich history and the future of the Sonoma wine region. Along the way, they touch on topics like music, organic farming in Florida, and a scary wildlife encounter Meghan had on her first day on the job. [Ep327] gunbun.com @gundlach_bundschu

This week we focus on hospitality and service in the wine business. Grant Wood works for Bedrock Wine Co. in Sonoma, CA where they focus on highlighting historic vineyards that span the state. He achieved his Diploma in wine and spirits from the WSET as well as passed the Certified Sommelier exam through the Court of Master Sommeliers in mid-2021. Pursuing the MW program with the Institute of Masters of Wine is part of his five-year plan moving forward. His passion for wine and delivering meaningful and bespoke hospitality is what drives him to keep pursuing new challenges that continue to build himself both personally and professionally. [Ep325] @bedrockwines @jazegan

Kia Behnia is changing the wine industry one hexagonal wine bottle at a time. The wine-loving tech entrepreneur always dreamed of owning a piece of wine country. A flat tire led him to what became the Kiatra Estate Vineyard. The fires of 2017 galvanized his ambition to create Neotempo Wines. However, he's never been satisfied with doing things the way they've always been done and questions everything from clones and root-stock to wine shipping. The guys sit down with Kia for a wide-ranging and inspirational  conversation that didn't come close to covering all the innovations Kia has fermenting. Stay tuned for part 2 coming soon! [Ep325]

This week we welcome Devyani Gupta to Sonoma for an in depth conversation about working for an internationally owned winery in Walla Walla. Devyani worked for some of the legendary leaders in the Washington wine industry before settling in to the Winemaker position at Valdemar Estates. The Syrah stopped the conversation as we simply stared at each other and smiled. Everything she is doing right now is inspiring on every level. Welcome the incomparable Devyani Gupta. Enjoy this one. [Ep324] Valdemarestates.com @valdemarestates

This week we welcome Alex Mitchell from MUST Machining & Fabrication to the podcast. MUST grew out of two different Napa Valley winery supplier/fabrication institutions York Machine Works and Burgstahler Machine Works, which had 70 years of experience innovating, leading, and servicing the wine industry. Alex, a former York employee began working with him in 2006, with the intent to purchase the business when York retired. In 2010, Alex and his wife, Michelle, assumed ownership. The Mitchells also met Wayne Burgstahler and told him that when he was ready to retire they were interested in purchasing his company, which came to fruition in late January 2020. The Mitchells combined the two shops and created MUST. Alex grew up in Napa Valley with his family growing grapes and making wine. Check out the show to hear the entire story. instagram.com/mustfabricate