POPULARITY
Categories
A group tasting of the splendid wines from Chester Gap Cellars!More Info here: https://www.chestergapcellars.com/ Join the Conversation!
What if the future of wine is cleaner, healthier, and more authentic than ever before?In this episode, we sit down with award-winning winemaker Vivian Valenzuela, founder of WOO GIRL! Cellars, to explore how she's redefining modern winemaking from the heart of Sonoma County.From vegan-friendly wines and regenerative farming to zero residual sugar, minimal sulfites, and single-vineyard expressions, Vivian shares the philosophy behind creating wines that are as honest as the land they come from. Discover why terroir matters, what makes a truly sustainable wine, and how lower-alcohol wines can still deliver extraordinary depth, complexity, and character.Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or simply curious about the next generation of winemaking, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about wine—and leave you eager to pour your next glass.Don't miss this inspiring conversation with one of California's most exciting voices in wine.
Scott Lindstrom-Dake from Thumbprint Cellars joins Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell on California Wine Country. This is Scott’s first time on the show. Thumbprint Cellars is located in the Petaluma Gap. The first tasting is a 2024 Nouveau, primarily made with Grenache with a little bit of Zin, meant to be served chilled. It has a dark pink color and is a refreshing easy-drinking wine. Dan notices that it is very dry but not soft, either. It has the personality of a red but the structure of a white. This wine also got 50% malolactic fermentation which gives it body but not too much. The fruit flavors are coming from the Grenache. This is the result of carbonic maceration is when you put the whole cluster in without crushing, so every berry is whole when they develop their own fermentation. It’s not meant for aging but for enjoying now. (++++) California Wine Country is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that produce exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference! (++++) The next wine is the 2021 Passion Valley, which Scott calls their prestige brand. Scott was making wine when he was an art student mostly doing sculpture, so he wanted to call it Sculptured Cellars. But then one evening, his wife handed him a gold pen to customize some labels on the bottles of some of his home made wine. The gold ink leaked from the pen, and he used his thumb to blot the ink. Then he left a gold thumbprint on the bottles. He realized he had a name when people asked for more of “that thumbprint wine.” This Sculptured Cellars wine won a Gold Medal at the North Coast Wine Challenge. It comes from 75-80 year-old Carignan vines, 50%, with another 50% Syrah. It gets a little barrel aging in French oak, about 20% new. The Carignan is grown near the Russian River, so it gets cooler evenings. Dan finds it succulent and mature, ready for further aging. He would serve it slightly chilled, with barbeque. Scott started making wine as a hobby after his wife got him a book about how to make wine in your garage. He thought about what he would want on the label. While staring at wine labels in a store for half an hour, he would read labels. He thought that the information he wanted was lacking. Scott decided it was important to put some information on the label, so the customer has an idea of what’s going on. Scott is making Cabernet Franc, which will be more and more in demand. In Napa valley, it is already more expensive than Cabernet Sauvignon. Dan predicts that its popularity will increase. Cabernet Sauvignon is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It is not easy to grow. Cabernet Franc is not as difficult to grow. Scott describes winemaking as an art, and the science part is important but secondary. He started by making wine at home. He was lucky to work for a family in Dry Creek Valley who allowed him to make wine there, as part of his compensation. Today his artistic expression comes through his winemaking, instead of sculpture.
46 años tiene Cellars in the Sky, el concurso de vino en vuelo de Business Traveller. Sus resultados 2026 son un mapa de hacia dónde va el consumo de vino premium en el mundo: Australia arrasó, la Provence consolidó el rosado como categoría de lujo year-round, y los lounges aeroportuarios entraron formalmente al ranking. Pero la señal más disruptiva es otra: por primera vez hay categorías para no y low alcohol, y EVA Air ganó Oro con un espumante sin alcohol sueco. La era del Grand Cru en carta como señal suficiente de calidad terminó. Hoy el pasajero de business benchmarkea contra los mejores hoteles del mundo. Sin marketing, sin PR, con datos y citas reales.
Discover how wine cellars boost luxury home appraisals in Boca Raton, from climate control to architectural integration. We examine the design choices that drive real value and why experiential spaces outperform traditional renovations. Oasis Wine Cellars City: Boca Raton Address: 7 Royal Palm Way Website: https://oasiswinecellars.com
Find out how wine cellars, wellness retreats, hidden rooms, and statement walls are driving appraisals ten to twenty-five percent higher in luxury real estate. We explore the shift from material opulence to experiential design—and why appraisers can't ignore emotional impact. Oasis Luxury Living City: Boca Raton Address: 7 Royal Palm Way Website: https://www.oasisluxuryliving.com
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Gloria Bazan, Co-Owner, Bazan Cellars, Coombsville AVA, Napa Valley, defining the term “Tasting Notes”. Learn more by visiting bazancellars.com or coombsvillenapa.org
Commonly you can find tasting rooms in many wineries around Napa Valley. Bazan Cellars is easily found right in the heart of downtown Napa just across the street from the famous Bounty Hunter restaurant. Even better, you can walk in without an appointment. I met up with Co-Owner Gloria Bazan as part of my tour [...]
Mentioned in this Episode Connect with the Podcast: Facebook: @texaswinepod Instagram: @texaswinepod Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com Help the Show: Subscribe to the newsletter. Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level! Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Thanks to our sponsors: Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs. Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy. Mentioned in this Episode Texas Hill Country Wineries Presents: Hill Country Wine Camp 2026! North Texas Wine Jam at Lost Oak Winery on Saturday, June 6! Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. TICKETS Texas Hill Country Wineries' New Summer Season Pass Texas Hill Country Wineries' Barrels & Bites TEXSOM Conference is August 23–25 in Irving My interview with Mark Fusco of WineWorldTV on YouTube Italianity: The Culture of Italian Wine by Jessica Dupuy and Andrea Lonardi, MD - Order here! Featured Interview Garrett Strickler, Vineyard Director, Salt Lick Vineyards & Wine Director, Salt Lick Cellars Follow Local Customs on Instagram HERE And don't miss Salt Lick BBQ too! Demerit and Gold Star DEMERIT: none this episode GOLD STARS: St Mary's School of Law Graduation Address by Ron Yates! Special Thanks Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus! Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com! Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don't forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too! Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Elise Nerlove, Co-Proprietor, Elkhorn Peak Cellars, Napa Valley, defining the phrase “Pop Up Vineyard Experience”. Learn more by visiting elkhornpeak.com or microwineryguild.com
Whenever I’m in Napa Valley I try to stop in to see Elise and Ken Nerlove, whom I’ve been friends with for several years. This father daughter team owns Elkhorn Peak Cellars, which is located in the very southern part of Napa Valley. This time around was even more exciting as they told me that [...]
Dreaming of a luxury wine cellar? Before you fall for stunning glass walls and floating racks, discover why temperature, humidity, and vibration control matter far more than aesthetics—and the costly mistake most homeowners make. Oasis Wine Cellars City: Boca Raton Address: 7 Royal Palm Way Website: https://oasiswinecellars.com
Ever wondered what goes into designing hidden vaults, custom wine cellars, and private wellness retreats in luxury homes? Join us as we examine the specialized design process, trade partnerships, and the philosophy behind creating spaces that reflect how you truly want to live. Oasis Luxury Living City: Boca Raton Address: 7 Royal Palm Way Website: https://www.oasisluxuryliving.com
Send us Fan Mail90+ Cellars DOC Prosecco Lot 50This Prosecco really sips well.Balanced acidity and delicious flavors, all for around $10 to $12.Please check out the Podcast for info on 90+ Cellars; they are legit and an excellent source of top-value priced wine.Good, cheap Bubbly is always welcome!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com
Without Your Head Horror Podcast with Brooke H. Cellars director of THE CRAMPS: A PERIOD PIECE"Agnes defies her strict family by working at a salon, but her newfound independence is challenged when her menstrual cramps manifest as actual monsters, merging her real and nightmare worlds." @BostonUnderground
IWP Ep104 Bart Hansen - Dane Cellars and The Winemakers Podcast. I recently sat down with Bart Hansen of Dane Cellars and the winemakers podcast. He gave me a great tour of some of the historical winemaking artifacts near his tasting room in Glen Ellen. And we had a great conversation in the tank. Bart has always been so nice and interested in the podcast and The Winemakers Podcast is one of my favorites. He's been able to make Sonoma Valley his winemaking home his entire career and produces some great wines from the valley. They all show his refined craftsmanship and sourcing. You can really hear his love for the area in his voice. You can find them at danecellars.com and follow him at instagram.com/dane__cellarsFollow the podcast at www.instagram.com/indiewinepodcast or email indiewinepodcast@gmail.com with questions, comments or feedback. Please rate or subscribe or if you are able, consider making a donation to help me keep telling wine stories ad free and available for everyone. - www.patreon.com/IndieWinePodcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/indie-wine-podcast/id1673557547 https://open.spotify.com/show/06FsKGiM9mYhhCHEFDOwjb.https://linktr.ee/indiewinepodcast
Mentioned in this Episode Connect with the Podcast: Facebook: @texaswinepod Instagram: @texaswinepod Email: texaswinepod@gmail.com Show notes and more: www.thisistexaswine.com Help the Show: Subscribe to the newsletter. Donate virtual Texas wine or join the podcast membership at the Gold Medal, Silver Medal, or Bronze Medal Level! Leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Thanks to our sponsors: Vintage2: Contact Tim at weinheimergroup.com for more information about enhancing your winery's AI visibility. Bending Branch Winery: Contact Jen at bendingbranchwinery.com for all of your custom crush winemaking needs. Brunch Agency: Contact charlotte@brunchagency.com and say you heard it on This Is Texas Wine podcast to get actionable tips for improving your website and digital sales strategy. Mentioned in this Episode 6 Texas Wines Named to World's Best Sommelier Selections John Harvey for Texas Wine Lover: “Bob Landon: All In” Take the Silicon Valley Bank DTC Survey! or view the survey HERE Rootstock on March 28 in Waco! Use code SHELLY for a discount! TICKETS Rhone Rangers Visit Texas! Tickets for event in Houston HERE, for the luncheon at William Chris HERE and the walkaround tasting at William Chris HERE. 4R Ranch for sale in Meunster Texas Hill Country Wineries announces Houston Road Show on May 8! Link to TICKETS Texas Wine Auction on May 1–2 in Johnson City! Early Bird Tickets available through February 19 with code DRINKTX. TICKETS Drink North Texas on May 30 in Dallas. Early Bird Tickets available through April 30! TICKETS Featured Interview Janet and Mark Miertschin of Portree Cellars Demerit and Gold Star DEMERIT: St Paddy's Day freeze! GOLD STARS: none this episode Special Thanks Need lodging in Fredericksburg? Check out Cork + Cactus! Find Cork + Cactus and many more great rentals at Heavenly Hosts.com! Thanks to Texas Wine Lover for promotional help! For the latest information on Texas wineries and vineyards, visit Texas Wine Lover. Don't forget to download the Texas Wine Lover app too! Podcast music is by Landon Lloyd Miller. Check out this music on Spotify HERE
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Tim Goodwin, General Manager, Scalon Cellars, Coombsville AVA, Napa Valley, defining the term “Apple Juice”. Learn more by visiting scaloncellars.com
Sitting along the Napa River in the city of Napa you can find the ultra cool tasting room for Scalon Cellars located in a repurposed tannery. The vineyard itself is located in the scenic Coombsville AVA just east of the city and tastings take place at the tannery by appointment.. Tim Goodwin is the General [...]
Stags Leap Wine Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, Judgement of Paris, Fay Vineyard and interview w Marcus Notaro, Head Winemaker at Stags Leap Wine Cellars in the Napa Valley. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European & Asian sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in CA wine, chatting along the way with the experts who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Marcus Notaro, Head Winemaker, Stags Leap Wine Cellars.
Miro Tcholakov is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell, and Melissa Galliani is also in the studio today. He operates Miro Cellars and is also winemaker for Trentadue Wines. Miro has been on CWC before, on this episode back on September 9, 2020. and his last appearance was this episode on April 5, 2024. Miro has brought a Chardonnay, the only Chardonnay he makes now. The vineyard belongs to the De Loach family. It was given “incomplete” malolactic fermentation, so it doesn't have too much “popcorny” flavor. This wine won a gold medal at the SF Chronicle competition. Miro grew up in Bulgaria. Sometimes he refers to it as “way back east.” After college in Bulgaria, he came to the US on a student visa. He had good grades in biology and, also needed to do two years of military service. His degree was agronomy engineering, specialized in viticulture. Then in 1990 he won access to an exchange program to the US. He chose viticulture and he was the only one of the six who went to the west coast. He worked a standard harvest internship at Dry Creek Vineyards. The night before he was supposed to leave, they asked him to stay, to cover for an injured colleague. He rose through the ranks and nine years later he took a full time winemaker job at Trentadue. When he was growing up in Bulgaria, his grandfather made wine. They made about 1000 bottles of wine per year. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference! Pinot Noir too Next they taste the Pinot Noir. Miro doesn't usually make Pinot Noir. He was known for making Petite Syrah and Zinfandel, but he wanted to try it just to say he can do that too. He gives credit to the work in the vineyard. “I am in opportunistic buyer…” of Pinot Noir grapes. It won a double gold medal from the SF Chronicle competition. Daedalus tastes dry cherry, old books, dustiness. Miro thinks maybe it's from the oak or the terroir. It's supple and round. It might handle about five or six years of aging. Daedalus' judgement: “Super drinkable, dangerously drinkable.” Later the discussion turns to the wine market and everyone’s opinion of how this downturn looks from their point of view. Aurelio Aguilar who is twenty-six, speaks for his generation. He suggests that winemakers have an important opportunity to get young people familiar with experiences like wine tasting. Then Miro tells his story of how the cave woman invented wine. Next they taste the Grenache named after his daughter, Cuvée Sasha. He started making it when she was born, 23 years ago, and for the last 10 years the grapes have come from the same vineyard on the shore of Lake Mendocino. Grenache is a good wine for any occasion, sort of like Pinot but spicier, and can have a hidden bite of tannin when younger. It’s fruity but can also be earthy. It is easy to pair with anything, Miro suggests grilled salmon or tuna. It can benefit from chilling, too. Melissa suggests bringing Grenache as a hostess gift, for it novelty and quality. Affordable Luxury “You can make high quality wines at a reasonable price. It’s possible. I’ve been doing it for twenty-three years.”
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature John Blair, President & Partner, Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla, Washington, defining the term “Shiner”. Learn more by visiting dunhamcellars.com
This is a follow-up to podcast 751 which featured Joanne Dunham, Founder of Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla, Washington. This time around I met up with John Blair, Partner and President of Dunham and once again we met up at the amazing Dunham hanger tasting room. While its always about the wines, this is a must [...]
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Dennis Murphy, Winemaker, Caprio Cellars, Walla Walla, Washington, defining his favorite wine phrase. Learn more by visiting capriocellars.com
Caprio Cellars is located just outside of the city of Walla Walla sitting comfortably amongst the vine covered hills. Dennis Murphy IS Caprio Cellars dividing his time between building homes in the Northwest and making world class wine. The winery specializes in paring their wines with small bites so their guests get the full effect [...]
From field to bottle, Shady Lane Cellars is leveraging Michigan's agriculture in their vineyard and wine selling businessAs the Executive Winemaker and General Manager of Shady Lane Cellars, Kasey Wierzba is guiding the winery's vision and award-winning craftsmanship. Shady Lane Cellars is a boutique, estate winery at the base of the Leelanau Peninsula near Suttons Bay, Michigan, known for its 100% estate-grown, sustainably certified wines crafted from cool-climate varietals. She also discusses Michigan's unique agribusiness industry and the state's various grape vine species.
She's doing it all, folks! When Meg Rulli says she's the woman behind Flipturn Cellars - she means it. There's no one else really. Meg is seeking out cool, interesting varietals, picking up the grapes, making the wine, and doing everything from that point to put wine in the bottle, not to mention market it, distribute it, etc. We're exhausted just thinking about it. Meg says studying abroad in Barcelona in college really opened her eyes to the world of wine and when she and her husband left their corporate jobs to travel for a year, she knew it was something she wanted to, at least, pursue. When they set up camp in Portland, Oregon - being near the Willamette Valley solidified those plans. Meg says she's intentionally independent and small and as of right now, has no plans to get any bigger. She likes the freedom to be able to "chase inspiration," and enjoys being the one to make the decisions - the good, the bad and the ugly. She and Trish talk about the grit it takes when you're slinging your passion... and what's on the horizon for Flipturn Cellars.
The story behind one of the most pivotal bottles in American wine history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Synne Cellars is settling into a brand-new tasting room, and we're bringing the microphones straight to the source. In this episode of TLC, Tend Life Community, we sit down once again with winemaker and owner Isaac Schmid to uncork what's new, what's next, and what's uniquely Synne. When Isaac joined the show as a guest in season 2, we explored the origin story of Synne Cellars and his mission to craft small-batch wines with heart, precision, and an inclusive approach for those who typically struggle with wine sensitivities. This time, we're stepping into the next chapter, recording right inside the freshly opened, new location Synne Cellars tasting room. Isaac shares the why behind the move, how the new space came to life, and the creative spark it ignites in both the cellar and the guest experience. From wines that reflect this new phase to evolving techniques for crafting approachable pours, we dive deep into the artistry, science, and stories swirling inside each bottle. He also walks us through what's fermenting now, the exciting releases on the horizon, and how the Woodinville wine community continues to play a meaningful role in Synne Cellars journey. All while we sip and enjoy a glass of his amazing 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon "Superiority Complex" As always, we round out the episode with hidden gems, future plans, and the kind of real talk that makes our local winemakers who they are. And don't miss the Real Estate Roundup at the end of the show, where we highlight what's happening in the local market and what buyers and sellers should keep an eye on. This pour-forward conversation is the perfect blend of community, craft, and the ever-evolving story of Synne Cellars; one that's only just getting started.
ADVENT SPECIAL: Hope 2025 - We will be doing 30 min episodes to close out each week of Advent and tasting wine instead of whisky. Pour: Josh Cellars 2020 Sauvignon Blanc Discussion: Week 1 of Advent, Hope Follow us on all your podcast platforms and: Instagram: @manhoodneat X: Manhood Neat (@ManhoodNeat) / X Youtube: Manhood, Neat Podcast - YouTube Reach out: manhood.neat@gmail.com Show Notes: Hope as Man's First Calling Scripture: Isaiah 9:2–7; Romans 4:18–21 Men are called to see what isn't visible yet and trust God anyway Abraham “hoped against hope” - Is this where spiritual leadership begins? Hope is vision & waiting - two things that have been stripped away. Joseph's Model of Strength Scripture: Matthew 1:18–25 Joseph receives a call he didn't ask for. God tells him “Do not fear.” Joseph responds by: Listening Obeying Protecting sacrificially How do we have Hope in this season? Anchor yourself in Scripture. “Long Obedience in the Same Direction” Leading your family in confidence, not arrogance or bravado
Send us a textThis week on Inside the Bunghole, Lance and James chat with Napa legend and resident grape whisperer Peter Heitz, the winemaker at Turnbull Wine Cellars. Heitz isn't just any guy with a corkscrew — he's a 14th-generation grape grower who somehow managed to turn “fine, I'll take the job” into 18 vintages of world-class wine. He tells us how he stumbled into Turnbull, discovered the team wasn't broken (just underloved), and turned a bunch of “okay” wines into bottles people proudly bring to their mom's birthday dinners.Peter breaks down the art of “doing less” in winemaking — basically, how not to screw up a good grape. He compares himself to a midwife instead of a surgeon, preaches the power of letting the wine be itself, and takes some hilarious jabs at overproduced, over-oaked “stick and chip” wines. (Spoiler: if your wine needs a push-up bra, it's not a natural beauty.) Between lazy-eye jokes, pink-eye accusations, and life lessons about teamwork and humility, the crew somehow still manages to talk about actual wine.It's a perfect blend of humor, heart, and hangovers. From $19 million worth of dumped juice to the great “mystery grape” that turned out to be Lagrine, Peter proves that real craftsmanship isn't about perfection — it's about passion, patience, and knowing when to walk away from bad vino. So pour a glass, lean in, and prepare to toast to doing less, loving your team, and letting the grapes (and jokes) breathe.Cheers! Please like, follow, subscribe and rate us! We LOVE to hear your comments! Reach out to us on our social media: Facebook and Instagram @insidethebungholeTwitter @bungholepodcastOur webpage is insidethebunghole.buzzsprout.comOR email us at insidethebunghole@gmail.com
Grit Cellars is more than a winery—it's a mindset.In this episode, we sit down with the heart and hustle behind Grit Cellars to talk about building something meaningful from the ground up. From long days in the vineyard to the relentless determination it takes to turn grapes into a brand, this conversation dives deep into what “grit” really means in the wine world.We talk passion, perseverance, and the moments that test you the most—because great wine isn't just made in the cellar, it's shaped by the people willing to push through challenges, take risks, and believe in their vision. This episode is a reminder that behind every bottle is a story of hard work, sacrifice, and a whole lot of heart.Pour a glass and settle in—this one's for the dreamers, the doers, and anyone who appreciates wine with a backbone.
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Joanne Dunham, Founder & Managing Partner, Dunham Cellars, Walla Walla, Washington, quoting her favorite wine phrase. Learn more by visiting dunhamcellars.com
I’ve been able to visit so many unique tasting spaces in Walla Walla picking a single best one would be impossible. But Dunham Cellars was just “plane” fun…with maybe a bit of emphasis on the word plane. Dunham is located in an old WWII airplane hanger (on East Boeing Avenue no less) and that’s where [...]
Twenty years ago, four friends met at Georgia Tech, each driven by a unique passion for innovation, creativity, and excellence. Their paths diverged after graduation, leading them into different industries, but their shared love for wine remained a constant. Reuniting two decades later, they decided to blend their diverse skills and experiences to create a wine brand that reflects their journey and the spirit of collaboration that started in their college days. This brand isn't just about producing high-quality wine; it's about telling a story of friendship, perseverance, and a deep-rooted love for the craft. Charlie Fauroat joins Justin to discuss this growing wine brand!
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Cameron James, General Manager, Tinte Cellars, Woodinville, Washington defining the term “Delish”. Learn more by visiting tintecellars.com
“Wine for the greater good” is the point behind Tinte Cellars in Washington state. Sneaking in under the wire just ahead of harvest I was able to chat with Winemaker Noah Fox Reed and General Manager, Cameron James by phone. After visiting Washington state in September I was able to experience the diversity of the [...]
Send us a textWe travel to East Texas to a little town called Chandler Tx to talk to Val and Web, the owners of Doc Cellars. We hear how they got inspired to open up a winery and bring a community together!Doc Cellars
Will Gondak has been chasing the dream. Experiences making wine in Napa, Sonoma, Australia, New Zealand, France, Santa Cruz, and South Africa have broadened his view into what is possible. The wide array of hands-on experience accompanied by the study of winemaking and viticulture at both Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and Napa Valley College has yielded one curious wine nerd. Will has been calling Sonoma County home since 2015 and is looking forward to his 18th harvest in 2025. A full-time side hustle, Gondak Cellars was established in 2015. Will spends the majority of his work time helping make wines for several other brands while slowly building Gondak Cellars. [Ep 388] gondakcellars.com @gondakcellars
Why do some bottles (and handbags) whisper luxury while others shout it from the rooftops? In this week's episode, Amanda sits down with fashion creator and style expert Style by Wale to explore what our closets and cellars say about us. From investment pieces to everyday staples, they unpack how luxury in both fashion and wine isn't just about price—it's about craftsmanship, intention, and knowing your personal taste. Wale breaks down how to spot quality, find your “fashion palate,” and why letting go of trends can make room for timeless style. Amanda connects these same ideas to the wine world—explaining why a $30 Cru Beaujolais can be every bit as elegant as a $300 Burgundy, and how to shop smarter for wines that feel as good as they taste. Whether you're a fan of The Row or just curious about what makes a wine quietly luxurious, this episode will change the way you think about how (and why) you buy. Wine Featured on This Episode:2023 Château de La Chaize Fleurie Beaujolais Follow:
Send us a textIn this episode of Inside the Bunghole, the team welcomes winemaker Brian Marquez from Weins Cellars, a legacy winery located in Temecula, California. Brian shares the story of Weins' 20+ year journey, from its beginnings in Lodi to becoming one of the “Four Castles” of Temecula wine country. Known for producing over 30 varietals and upwards of 100 different SKUs, Weins has built a diverse portfolio—from sparkling wines and white ports to bold reds—crafted to appeal to a wide range of palates. Brian kicks things off with their popular sparkling wine, “Blanc de Blanc,” and discusses the local and historic fruit sources they work with, including old vines from Cucamonga and heritage plantings near Native reservations.Brian's personal journey from event bartender to head winemaker is filled with humility, hustle, and heart. A self-taught craftsman shaped by the mentorship of the Weins family, Brian describes learning the ropes—from cellar hand to creative winemaker—through hands-on experience and a willingness to taste, learn, and adapt. His breakthrough came in 2013 when he was given the reins on Chardonnay production, ultimately earning a 90+ rating from Wine Enthusiast. Since then, he's gone on to craft award-winning wines such as their Arneis and Refugio Cabernet Sauvignon, while also representing the winery in prestigious competitions and even judging international wines himself.The episode also explores the evolution of Temecula as a wine destination, the technical side of winemaking (including a deep dive into barrel selection and toasting), and why Weins Cellars prioritizes the direct-to-consumer experience over mass distribution. Brian discusses how their family-oriented vibe, member-exclusive experiences, and music-driven events help create lasting memories. The winery's commitment to crafting elegant, approachable wines—like their fan-favorite Refugio Cab—has made them a standout in Temecula's growing wine scene. It's a heartfelt, informative conversation about legacy, labor, and loving what you do.Cheers! Please like, follow, subscribe and rate us! We LOVE to hear your comments! Reach out to us on our social media: Facebook and Instagram @insidethebungholeTwitter @bungholepodcastOur webpage is insidethebunghole.buzzsprout.comOR email us at insidethebunghole@gmail.com
UK Cider Tour 2025 Audio Snap Shots Wallace and Ria in Bristol In this Episode 469 of Cider Chat, we brings listeners inside the UK Totally Cider Tour 2025 through the voices of the guests who joined. From Somerset, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, to Wales guests on this tour discovered not just cider and perry, but also community, history, and inspiration. First Impressions and Highlights Many guests shared that they signed up to experience places they couldn't access on their own. From the scale of Showering's Cider Mill, the second largest in the country to the intimate welcome at Oliver's, the contrast certainly left a deep impression. The discovery of Perry was a recurring theme. From Ohio travelers Chris and Megan who tasted their very first Perry on the tour, while Rodney from Virginia declared he'd be grafting Perry scions at home. Personal Connections Group Selfie with Sam Leach of Wilding Cider For repeat travelers like Debbie and Bryce from California, the tour reaffirmed how relationships with makers enrich the experience: “ They treat us like friends, not tourists.” Ancha from Hungary spoke of the joy of hiking the Malvern Hills in the rain and celebrating with fellow cider lovers. Rachel and Mary of Kanga Cider in Texas noted the value of orchard insights for their own plantings back home, while Thomas from Australia praised the tour for covering the full spectrum of producers—from industrial to artisanal. Learning and Inspiration Guests emphasized that tasting ciders in their native terroir cannot be replaced by books or certifications. Dan from Spacetime Mead and Cider Works in Dunmore Pennsylvania highlighted how only by being in Herefordshire or Somerset can one grasp the range of English cider styles. Susan and Tom of Heeman's Cellars in Ontario pointed out how the pacing of the tour allowed real reflection—something missing from busier farm tours. The Takeaway Whether first-timers or repeat guests, everyone agreed: the Totally Cider Tour offers access, education, and camaraderie that can't be replicated alone. As David of Oregon said it best, “It wasn't really about the cider—it was about the people.” Contact info for Totally Cider Tours Website page: https://ciderchat.com/totally-cider-tours/ For details on upcoming cider journeys and to join the waitlist, send an email to info@ciderchat.com and write in the heading Totally Cider Tours. Let us know how many are in your party Destinations you would like to visit Mentions in this Cider Chat Episode 469 425: Babycham to Triple Vintage – The Showering's Cider Legacy 450th Roger Wilkins – The Cider King 444: Worleys and Honey's: Somerset's Cider Makers 441: Wilding Cider and the Rural Method | Somerset, UK 454: Wild Ferment Meets Fine Cider: Inside Oliver's Barrel Room 460: James Forbes on Little Pomona's Ciders & Legacy 432: Ancha Gergely's Abaliget Garden Projects | Hungarian Cider Maker