Podcasts about napa valley

Sometimes I just get an hankering. Ya know, a chance to try and tell it like it is. There is no óne-size" fits all solution to what is happening in our trade. And there still are many successes in the trade...more to come on that front. Wine is too important to the existance of man to address the ills of the trade with thinking marketing and packaging solutions will solve the problems. Certainly, the trade can make some contemporary adjustments to those issues, but those are not the core issues. They can't be, wine is a conduit for the human soul to the soil; deep rooted (pun intended) in our human history. My solo chat in this episode of Wine Talks covers a smorgasbord of wine world goings-on, from L.A. distributor drama to the secret sauce behind great wine service. I tell some spicy takes on wine industry passion, poke fun at “credentials” (let's just say WSET 1 is not exactly rocket science), and reminisces about both snobby and soulful wine moments—because hey, sometimes decanting at home is just as much about the class as the glass. Ialso spin off on stories about meeting the Pope (fingers crossed for that podcast collab!) and a forthcoming series, Song of America, which promises inspiring immigrant tales—because let's face it, who didn't dream of inventing the bendy straw? The thread running through it all is passion—whether you're pouring Pinot or running a carpet empire on Santa Monica Blvd, it's caring deeply that truly makes life (and wine) taste better. And don't worry, Ikeep ranting about all the things that make me crazy in the wine world, so stay tuned and pour yourself a glass for the ride!   #wineindustry #winepassion #RNDCCollapse #winesales #wineeducation #WSET #wineservice #restaurantwinesales #NapaValley #properwineservice #hospitality #immigrantstories #SongOfAmerica #Armenianwinemakers #VaticanWine #wineculture #winestorytelling #celebritywines #farmtotable #wineexperiences

This week on Everybody in the Pool, we're heading to Napa Valley... sadly not literally. This time, anyway! David Pearson, president of Joseph Phelps Vineyards, has spent his career in wine, but he's now leading a transformation that's as much about climate solutions as it is about Cabernet. It's a story about farming, philosophy, and, yes, some really good wine.We dig into:What regenerative farming really means — and why it's not just a buzzwordHow microbes, fungi, and “living soils” can make better grapes (and better wine)Why this approach is also climate adaptation in a warming worldThe surprising connection between soil health, nutrient density, and tasteHow big players like Moët Hennessy are backing the shiftLinks:Joseph Phelps Website: http://www.josephphelps.com/David Pearson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-pearson-6896a82/ All episodes: https://www.everybodyinthepool.com/Subscribe to the Everybody in the Pool newsletter: https://www.mollywood.co/Become a member and get an ad-free version of the podcast: https://everybodyinthepool.supercast.com/What you can do to help: Please subscribe and tell your friends about Everybody in the Pool!Send feedback or become a sponsor! in@everybodyinthepool.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the on-going themes with Wine Talks, with virtually all guests, is the idea that you never stop learning in the wine trade. I supposed you could say that about many industries, but wine carries with it the idea of the harvest; the surrounding conditions that otherwise would be called "terroir" when discussing the differences from one year to the next. And there in lies the "never stop learning" aspect of wine. Each year is different and each your your knowledge and curiosity is compounded. Tony Biagi relishes in this concept. He finds the will and the drive directly from the annual but perrenial unkowns when the next harvest arrives. We had an inspiring conversation at the Robert Mondavi tasting room in downtown Napa (a must stop when visiting). ony Biagi might claim his parents thought he was crazy for joining the wine world, but on this episode, it's clear that his unique path—from wrestling recruit to celebrated Napa winemaker—brings bold insight to every bottle he touches. You'll walk away with a fresh perspective on what really makes a wine legendary—not just the soil or variety, but the relentless curiosity and humility of those who tend the vines. Listen as Tony wrestles with the legacy of To Kalon, Napa's most storied vineyard, unraveling its mysteries alongside Paul Kalemkiarian. You'll learn how American and French traditions collide in the heart of California, why the freedom to experiment drives vintners across the Atlantic to our shores, and how the “Burgundianization” of Napa reflects a deeper search for identity and place. Tony lays bare the tension between making wine for the critics versus crafting honest, vintage-driven wines—the kind that can never quite be replicated and, like a great song or timeless meal, stir something primal in us all. Hear the unvarnished truth about organic farming, weathering adversity like wildfires, and how a single harvest offers but one shot each year to get it right. Find out why the energy in a morning vineyard or the quiet wisdom of mentors shapes every glass, and discover how genuine hospitality—not snobbery—keeps the wine world alive. By the end, you'll possess an insider's grasp of not only To Kalon's rarefied terroir and innovative spirit, but the soulful alchemy that endlessly draws winemakers and drinkers back to the table. Robert Mondavi Winery (owners of part of To Kalon Vineyard) Website: https://www.robertmondaviwinery.com Ridge Vineyards Website: https://www.ridgewine.com Ravenswood Winery Website: https://www.ravenswoodwinery.com PlumpJack Winery Website: https://www.plumpjackwinery.com Duckhorn Vineyards Website: https://www.duckhorn.com Hourglass Wine Company Website: https://www.hourglasswines.com Cade Estate Winery Website: https://www.cadewinery.com Chateau Cheval Blanc Website: https://www.chateau-cheval-blanc.com/en/ Harlan Estate Website: https://www.harlanestate.com Staglin Family Vineyard Website: https://www.staglinfamily.com Domaine Leflaive Website: https://www.domainedeflaive.com/en/ Dalla Valle Vineyards Website: https://www.dallavallevineyards.com Turley Wine Cellars Website: https://www.turleywinecellars.com Terravox (Missouri) Website: https://www.terravox.wine Wine Spectator (wine magazine frequently cited) Website: https://www.winespectator.com     #NapaValley #TonyBiagi #PaulKalemkiarian #winemaking #TokalonVineyard #terroir #CabernetSauvignon #CabernetFranc #organicfarming #vineyardhistory #winebusiness #wineratings #hospitality #winetourism #innovation #tradition #vintage #wineindustry #RobertMondavi #winetastingrooms  

Adam, Joanna, and Zach respond to a listener question about a recent, unsatisfying visit to a well-regarded Napa Valley winery. Are some of the more established wineries in the valley failing to provide the kind of hospitality guests expect? Are newer brands more responsive to the current landscape? How can wineries justify high-priced tastings to a clientele that perhaps wants a different experience than in the past? Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review VinePair on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your episodes, and send any questions, comments, critiques, or suggestions to podcast@vinepair.com. Thanks for listening, and be well.Zach is drinking: Jean-Charles Fornerot "Murgers des Dents de Chien" Saint-Aubin 1er Cru White BurgundyJoanna is drinking: Domaine Sylvain Pataille AligoteInstagram: @adamteeter, @jcsciarrino, @zgeballe, @vinepair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jon kicks off the show talking about... sharpies?? Elsewhere, Jon looks at Trump's Israel/Hamas ceasefire deal. Andrew Langer joins where he shares his reaction to SNL mocking President Trump and Pete Hegseth, and offers his thoughts on the latest headlines out of Washington D.C.

 Senate democrats are heading to Napa Valley for a little R&R retreat amid the government shutdown which wins the award for Bad Look Of The Day. Jesse Watters has fun with it. Two Secret Service mishaps have many asking for closer scrutiny of the President's security detail. Kash Patel divorces the FBI from the Anti Defamation League, which got really cozy with former director James Comey.

In this episode of Money Moves, Matty and Ryan unpack the key takeaways from hosting the first-ever Wise Investor Collective Summit in Napa Valley—an unforgettable experience full of networking, world-class speakers, and bucket-list venues. They reflect on the importance of building community, cultivating “relationship currency,” and how proximity to the right rooms can elevate your wealth journey.The hosts also dive into pressing economic topics, including the looming government shutdown, Fed rate cuts, and what recent wage and housing data mean for affordability and real estate investing. A highlight of the discussion is a thought-provoking perspective from Ray Dalio on whether real estate is still a strong investment in today's environment, sparking a deeper conversation about diversification between real estate, stocks, and other assets.If you want to better understand how to navigate shifting markets, position yourself for long-term wealth, and learn from the smartest minds in the room, this episode is packed with valuable insights.What You'll Learn in This Episode[00:00] Behind the scenes of the Wise Investor Collective Summit in Napa[06:35] Government shutdown concerns and market implications[14:45] Why volatility can present opportunities for long-term investors[22:00] Capitalism vs. socialism—narratives, noise, and real impact[25:48] Fed rate cuts, interest rates, and the state of housing affordability[32:41] Ray Dalio's take on why real estate may not be the best investment today[37:46] Real estate vs. stocks—synergy, trade-offs, and diversification[39:24] The power of “relationship currency” in building wealthEpisode Sponsored By:Discover Financial Millionaire Mindcast Shop: Buy the Rich Life Planner and Get the Wealth-Building Bundle for FREE! Visit: https://shop.millionairemindcast.com/CRE MASTERMIND: Visit myfirst50k.com and submit your application to join!FREE CRE Crash Course: Text “FREE” to 844-447-1555FREE Financial X-Ray: Text  "XRAY" to 844-447-1555

Join me as I sit down with Esther Mobley, Senior Wine Critic for the San Francisco Chronicle. Esther shares her fascinating journey from an English major to a wine journalist, starting with a harvest internship in Napa Valley and subsequently working in Mendoza, Argentina. Her career path led her through Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator before landing at the Chronicle in 2015, where she has since become a prominent voice in wine journalism. Throughout our conversation, Esther discusses her approach to wine writing, emphasizing her role as a reporter who explores wine through broader lenses of society, climate change, immigration, and culture. She explains that her job goes beyond traditional wine criticism, focusing instead on telling compelling stories about the wine industry in California. The episode offers listeners an insider's view of wine journalism, tracing her professional evolution and her unique perspective on covering the dynamic world of wine.   Resources from this Episode San Francisco Chronicle Wine Drinking with Esther Newsletter “The original ‘cult' wine: How I discovered California's strangest vineyard” Published 2018   This episode is sponsored by Harvest Pillar concrete trellis posts. Want to know why more growers are going for concrete? It's because Harvest Pillar is the last trellis post you'll ever need.   Check out the Fundamentals of Winemaking Made Easy video course

Napa Valley icon Tor Kenward joins host Billy for a wide ranging conversation spanning five decades of wine, food, and culture in the Valley. Tor traces his journey from a 1970s arrival when Napa had fewer than 50 wineries through the post Judgment of Paris boom, his culinary collaborations with Julia Child, Thomas Keller, and the American Institute of Wine & Food, the founding of the School for American Chefs with Madeleine Kamman, and the creation of TOR Wines, a Burgundy minded, single vineyard model sourcing elite blocks from sites like To Kalon, Vine Hill Ranch, Martha's Vineyard, Melanson Pritchard Hill, Hyde, Beckstoffer Dr. Crane, and more. We also dig into Tor's updated book, Reflections of a Vintner: Stories and Seasonal Wisdom from a Lifetime in Napa Valley with forewords by Robert Parker and Thomas Keller and an afterword by Karen MacNeil, plus candid takes on climate, pricing, and Napa's fifth season, the future.Key Topics & Takeaways1970s Napa, up close: fewer than 50 wineries, campgrounds over hotels, and meeting legends like André Tchelistcheff and Joe HeitzJudgment of Paris impact: how one blind tasting accelerated Napa's global credibility and tourismCulinary engine of Napa: Julia Child, AIWF, Copia, and launching the School for American Chefs with Madeleine KammanFrench Laundry era: early friendship with Thomas Keller; hospitality lessons borrowed from Europe and made Napa specificBuilding TOR Wines: why Tor chose a single vineyard Burgundy mindset over a Bordeaux style estate modelVineyard character, not just variety: how To Kalon vs Pritchard Hill vs Vine Hill Ranch show dramatic Cabernet diversityContracts and farming voice: leasing elite blocks, co deciding canopy, crop load, and timing with family growersThe book's format: a vintage year told month by month January to December plus Déjà Vu, the future of NapaHeadwinds and hope: consumption shifts, fire seasons, pricing ceilings, and why recent cool vintages can be outstandingPrice tiers that make sense: maturing region dynamics, icon wines can command premiums while broader tiers stabilizeLinks & ResourcesReflections of a Vintner: Stories and Seasonal Wisdom from a Lifetime in Napa Valley updated editionLink: https://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Vintner-Tor-Kenward-ebook/dp/B0F37B1GMKChapters00:00 Introduction to the Vent Wine Podcast00:23 Meet Napa Valley Legend Tor Kenward03:04 The Impact of the Judgment of Paris05:21 Founding Tor Wines and Napa's Evolution07:48 Reflections on Napa's Culinary and Wine Scene18:26 The Transition from Sweet to Dry Wines23:02 Napa's Hospitality Revolution26:48 Starting Tour Wines: A Family-Owned Venture27:39 Focusing on Single Vineyards: A Burgundy Approach29:49 Leasing Vineyard Blocks: Building Relationships30:55 Production Numbers and Collaborations31:44 The Unique Characteristics of Napa Valley Wines36:28 Writing the Book: Honoring Napa Valley's Legacy42:59 Climate Change and Napa Valley's Future46:32 The Premiumization of Napa Wines50:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email Billy@thewinepod.com. Cheers!

What starts as a story inspired by a grandfather's World War II experience with champagne turns into a full-circle journey through fine dining, wine education, and app development.  In this episode of Wine Behind the Scenes, Laurel Simmons is joined by Jeff Gillis, a certified sommelier, adjunct professor, and former food and beverage director at luxury hotels in Beverly Hills and Napa Valley.  Jeff shares how his upbringing shaped his love of wine and why curating wine lists at five-star hotels prepared him for teaching and innovating. He talks about building his app, Wine Likes, a gamified platform designed to help wine lovers connect, learn, and discover new bottles.  Whether you're in hospitality, a wine student, or just someone who's tired of wine apps that don't get you, this conversation blends tradition and tech with heart and a healthy splash of fun.  What You'll Learn:  How WWII and a European-style home influenced Jeff's love of wine What it's really like to run wine programs at world-class hotels The power of educating future wine pros with science and storytelling Why supporting local winemakers is a long-term win What led Jeff to create a social wine app, and how it works The real challenges of transitioning from hospitality to tech A surprising 'wonky wine term' that might make you giggle And if you're ready to hear how the past, present, and future of wine collide in one conversation? Listen now at www.winebehindthescenes.com Jeff Gillis began his career in the hospitality industry, spending over 15 years as a food and beverage director, wine buyer, and wine director for top-tier hotels like The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Peninsula Group, and Bardessono in Napa Valley. After earning an MBA from the University of Illinois, he transitioned into biotech operations, where he also began building Wine Likes, a social platform for wine lovers. A WSET2-certified sommelier and adjunct professor at the College of the Canyons, Jeff is passionate about teaching, innovating, and making wine fun again, especially for those who want to enjoy wine without the pressure of being an expert. You can visit Jeff's website here: www.winelikes.com and all of his other socials: Instagram: @winelikesapp LinkedIn: @winelikesceo Facebook: @winelikes TikTok: @winelikes

I can talk about this stuff for days. Get me on a high horse and it is off to the races. I've tasted more wines than most people could ever dare dream of—but what fascinates me isn't just what's in the glass. It's the stories behind the bottles, the regions, and the relentless passion it takes to survive and thrive in the wine trade. In this episode of Wine Talks, I share how a ritual-like discipline led me to taste over 100,000 wines, and what that journey has taught me about the constantly evolving wine industry. I'll take you inside Tuesday morning tastings, reveal why competitors sometimes secretly send each other cases of samples, and unpack how internet sales, supermarket scandals, and shifting consumer habits have redrawn the map of the wine world. But it's not just about business—I'll also show you how to navigate an overwhelming wine aisle with confidence by learning to decode the meaning woven into a label. I'll open a door to emerging wine regions like Armenia, where ancient traditions and native grapes are fighting for global recognition, much like Napa or Bordeaux once did. Along the way, I'll share unexpected stories—from unforgettable dining spots in Yountville, to vodka distilled from “second-chance” fruit, to boutique brands rewriting the rules of luxury. My goal is simple: to help you see wine in a whole new light. You'll leave this episode empowered to explore, enchanted by histories you never knew, and inspired to savor not just what's in your glass, but the human stories that bring it to life. #WineTalks #WinePodcast #PaulKalemkiarian #WineOfTheMonthClub #WineTasting #NapaValley #Yountville #StHelena #WineEducation #WineIndustry #ArmenianWine #WineRegions #WineExperience #WineTravel #WineStories #WineCulture #WineRecommendations #Winemaking #WineShops #WineVarietals

In this episode of Vineyard Underground, Fritz continues his conversation with winemaker and Inside Winemaking podcast host Jim Duane on what it takes for grape growers to successfully step into winemaking. Following part one, which covered equipment, compliance, and basic chemistry, part two dives deeper into the realities of balancing vineyard management with winery responsibilities. Fritz and Jim explore how harvest decisions shift when you're making wine from your own fruit, weighing risks like weather and pests against the pursuit of higher quality. Jim shares how winemakers must rethink priorities, and they also break down which lab analyses should be done in-house versus outsourced. The discussion covers the intense workload during harvest, how to plan labor needs, and the value of building a team to avoid burnout. Jim stresses the importance of advance planning to manage the overlapping demands of the vineyard and the winery. He also highlights common mistakes growers face when starting out, including mismanaging SO2 additions, misinterpreting acidity, and relying on incomplete fermentation data. The episode closes with practical advice and resources for aspiring winemakers, from small-scale home fermentations to structured courses and workshops. Fritz and Jim encourage growers to start experimenting, make manageable mistakes, and seek mentorship to build both confidence and competence before fully scaling their operations. In this episode, you will hear: How harvest decisions shift when growers begin making their own wine Why budgeting for laboratory analyses is non-negotiable in commercial winemaking Common mistakes with SO2, acidity adjustments, and fermentation management The importance of advance planning to balance vineyard and winery demands Practical resources and training opportunities for new winemakers Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners.

EP295 In this episode of the Hard Parking Podcast, host Jhae Pfenning dives into Acura's recent decision to discontinue the ZDX electric SUV after less than two years on the market. He shares his thoughts on its design, GM collaboration, and why EV SUVs like the ZDX and Rivian often struggle to turn profits in a shifting automotive landscape. Then, special guest Dre Mullins joins for "Dre Day Volume 3," recounting their separate epic NSX road trips from Phoenix to Tacoma for NSXPO 2025. From scenic detours through Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley wineries, and Oregon's Redwoods to mishaps like speeding tickets, soaked Jordans, and near-misses with gas shortages, they swap hilarious stories of adventure, traffic woes, and group dynamics in high-performance Acura NSXs. After Dre's exit, Jhae wraps up with solo tales from the NSXPO—including track days at The Ridge, casino nights, and a nail-biting return trip —plus a teaser for next week's chat with Acura's Jonathon Rivers. Sponsored by Spark Forge AI for streamlined business communication. Perfect for Acura enthusiasts, EV fans, and road trip lovers!Main Show Sponsors:Right Honda:⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://righthonda.com/Right Toyota: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.righttoyota.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Arcus Foundry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://arcusfoundry.comAutocannon Official Gear: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.autocannon.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact Hard Parking with Jhae Pfenning: email: Info@HardParking.com Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.Hardparking.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.patreon.com/hardparkingpodcast/Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/hardparkingpod/YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://youtube.com/@HardParking

Send us a textDiscover a hidden gem that defies wine pricing expectations with our deep dive into Trader Joe's Grand Reserve Oak Knoll District Chardonnay 2024. At just $12.99, this exclusive offering delivers authentic Napa Valley quality that would typically command three times the price elsewhere.What makes this wine special begins with its prestigious origin. The Oak Knoll District sits at Napa Valley's southern end, where cooling fog creates the perfect environment for Chardonnay grapes to develop complex flavors while maintaining crucial acidity. This microclimate produces wines with remarkable balance—exactly what we found in this bottle. Created by the veteran winemaking team at DNA Vineyards (Dennis Patton and Andrea Silverstein), who bring over 40 years of experience and a track record of crafting Trader Joe's most beloved wine offerings, this Chardonnay showcases their considerable expertise.Upon tasting, this wine makes a bold statement without falling into the over-oaked butter trap that plagues many California Chardonnays. Instead, it offers a sophisticated interplay of stone fruits, citrus notes, and subtle spices, all supported by excellent structural acidity and satisfying mouthfeel. While initially striking in its confidence, the wine reveals additional layers with each sip, growing more intriguing throughout the experience. This isn't a shy, delicate Chardonnay—it's a full-flavored expression that demands attention while maintaining remarkable balance for its price point.Have you discovered a similar value wine that delivers way above its price? We'd love to hear about your finds! Subscribe to our podcast for more affordable wine recommendations, and visit cheapwineplanner.com for extended tasting notes and value wine discoveries that won't break the bank.Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Jeff GillisJeff Gillis—founder of Winelikes, WSET2-certified wine educator, and hospitality professor inspiring the next generation of wine lovers, one swirl at a time.Jeff Gillis began his career in the hospitality industry, spending over 15 years as a food and beverage director, wine buyer, and wine director for renowned brands like The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Peninsula Hotel Group, and Bardessono in Napa Valley. Though new to the tech sector, he's applied his hospitality expertise as Director of Operations at a biotech startup for the past five years.Despite earning an MBA from the University of Illinois, Jeff hadn't considered entrepreneurship until he recognized a gap for wine lovers seeking meaningful online connections. In 2021, he assembled a team of advisors and app developers to create Winelikes, a platform for wine enthusiasts to connect, learn, and share.In addition to developing Winelikes, Jeff holds a WSET2 certification and teaches wine and hospitality as an adjunct professor at the College of the Canyons. He began his career in the hospitality industry, spending over 15 years as a food and beverage director, wine buyer, and wine director for renowned brands like The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Peninsula Hotel Group, and Bardessono in Napa Valley.Want to be a guest on Book 101 Review? Send Daniel Lucas a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17372807971394464fea5bae3 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this of episode of Five Questions, Tor Kenward of Tor Wines reflects on nearly 50 years in Napa Valley. From Oakville's Beckstoffer Dr. Crane and Vine Hill Ranch to Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay, Tor shares his philosophy on single-vineyard Cabernet, the vintages that have defined his career, and the global producers who continue to inspire his palate.For those who live and breathe wine, this conversation offers a concise yet insightful look at one of Napa's great interpreters of terroir, and his vision for the region's future.Key Topics:Working with Napa's benchmark vineyards: Dr. Crane, Vine Hill Ranch, Melanson, HydeWhy single-vineyard Cabernet and Cabernet Franc remain the core of Tor WinesInspirations from Bordeaux, the Northern Rhône, and the Amalfi CoastStandout vintages from 1977 to 2024, both celebrated and overlookedNapa's future: viticulture, community, and resisting urbanizationChapters00:00 Introduction to Vint Wine Podcast00:24 Welcome to Five Questions00:49 Meet Tor Kenward00:55 Vineyard Locations and Varieties01:42 Introducing Tor Wines02:20 Inspirations Beyond Napa03:09 Memorable Vintages04:55 Looking Ahead for Tor and Napa Valley05:43 Conclusion and ThanksDiscover more of Tor's story in the newly updated version of his book: Reflections of a Vintner: Stories and Seasonal Wisdom from a Lifetime in Napa ValleyLink here: https://www.amazon.com/Reflections-Vintner-Stories-Seasonal-Lifetime-ebook/dp/B09GDX6563?ref_=ast_author_mpbThe Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email Billy@thewinepod.com. Cheers!

Wine Talks is deeply connected to the Judgement of Paris. Not only were the Barretts good customers of our wine shop, Warren Winiarski stayed in our home on a trip to Los Angeles. The industry was completely different then. California wine had always been a thing, particularly before prohibition. It had even made its way to the east coast in the 1800's. But then came that fateful day in Paris at the Intercontinental Hotel, the Americans won. In Paris, there was a journalist named George Taber. He had heard about this tasting pitting California's boutique gems against the equivalent (at least from a grape standpoint) French stars. It turned out to be no contest and set the wine world on its ears. Can you imagine, French judges choosing American vintages over their beloved French wines?  George Taber was the only journalist to show up...and almost didn't. George Taber never meant to shake the wine world—he just happened to be the only journalist in the room when California shattered centuries of French pride. As you join us on Wine Talks, you'll walk beside Taber through the candlelit salons of 1970s Paris, where the unsuspecting French sat down to a blind tasting designed to showcase their invincibility, only to watch that myth dissolve, glass by glass. In this episode, you'll learn how a simple event—what began as a friendly challenge orchestrated by Steven Spurrier—ended up catalyzing the global rise of American wine and undermining the Old World's complacency. You'll get an intimate portrait of the Parisian wine scene in its heyday: corner wine shops, eager expatriates, and the odd British merchant shaking things up with unorthodox ideas. Follow Taber's transformation from a young Time magazine reporter, new to France and mostly ignorant of wine, to the accidental chronicler of one of history's most dramatic palate shifts. Discover how logistical headaches and legal loopholes almost kept California's best bottles out of the competition, and what happened when French wine judges realized—too late—that their favorite “Meursault” was actually a Napa Chardonnay. You'll hear about the aftershocks reverberating through both continents; how careers were built, fortunes made, and the entire wine business transformed overnight. Plus, Taber reveals the stubborn role of luck in history and how something as small as attending the right tasting at the right time can change everything. By the end, you'll not only understand the Judgment of Paris, but also the passion, humility, and disruption that lie inside every bottle. #WineTalks #JudgmentOfParis #CaliforniaWine #FrenchWine #GeorgeTaber #StevenSpurrier #ChateauMontelena #StagsLeapWineCellars #NapaValley #WineHistory #WineTasting #WineEducation #BlindTasting #WineIndustry #PodcastInterview #WineStorytelling #WineCulture #CorkHistory #FrenchLifestyle #NewWorldWines   Time Magazine Website: https://time.com (Armen refers to working as a journalist at Time magazine.) Chateau Montelena Website: https://www.montelena.com (Referenced in the discussion about the Judgment of Paris tasting.) Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Website: https://www.cask23.com (Mentioned as one of the winning wineries in the Judgment of Paris.) Charles Krug Winery Website: https://www.charleskrug.com (Referenced in a story about being poured at an event with President Eisenhower.) Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery Website: https://www.sebastiani.com (Mentioned when Paul recalls stocking the shelves.) Ackerman Wines Website: https://www.ackermanwines.com (Ackerman, a major New York wine retailer, is referenced.) St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Website: https://www.stfranciswinery.com (Discussed in context of early synthetic cork usage.) Barefoot Cellars Website: https://www.barefootwine.com (Mentioned regarding synthetic corks.) Taylor Wine Company (Taylor Cellars) Website: https://www.taylorwine.com (Referenced in the cork closure story.)

It's officially wedding week! And in the spirit of celebration, Amanda is going solo on this special episode of Wine Access Unfiltered to answer the question that's constantly dropped in her DMs: What wines should I serve at my wedding? With her own Napa Valley nuptials just days away, Amanda shares the exact wines she's pouring (Krug, Margaux, and a killer Sylvaner), why she's skipping cocktails, and how she's creating a wine-bar experience with surprise bottle reveals throughout the night. From budget breakdowns to tips for pairing, planning, and party pacing, this is the ultimate guide for selecting wines for weddings, parties, and any big celebration. You'll also get recs for high-value sparklers and wines that age well for anniversaries, so listen up and sip smarter when you celebrate!

The September 18 edition of the AgNet News Hour delivered a mix of innovation, politics, and pressing issues for California farmers. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill covered everything from wildfire impacts on vineyards to a major upcoming ag conference, and even sat down with a fourth-generation poultry producer turned gubernatorial candidate. The show opened with coverage of the Pickett Fire in Napa Valley, now contained but leaving growers anxious about potential damage to premium wine grapes. With smoke, air quality concerns, and fire season lasting longer every year, the hosts called for more forest management and long-term solutions to protect both rural communities and crops. Attention then turned to the Reedley Ag Conference, set for October 9 at Reedley College. Organizer Hannah Johnson, CEO of GYV, outlined a packed agenda that will connect farmers, students, faculty, and retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Taco Bell. The event will feature CDFA Secretary Karen Ross, cutting-edge drone and automation demos, and a career fair matching students with ag employers. Johnson emphasized the importance of showing young people that agriculture isn't just about field labor — it's about coding, engineering, and data science too. Later in the program, Nick and Josh interviewed Leo Zacky, former head of Zacky Farms and now a candidate for California governor. Zacky shared firsthand how regulations, rising labor costs, and fuel mandates drove his family's poultry operation — once the largest on the West Coast — out of business. He made water his top campaign issue, calling California's shortages a “manmade problem” caused by poor storage and infrastructure. Zacky argued the state must invest in reservoirs, desalinization, and practical solutions instead of wasting billions on high-speed rail. From forward-looking ag tech to the very real struggles of California farmers, this episode captured both the challenges and the opportunities ahead. With water policy, labor, and innovation all on the table, it's a must-listen for anyone tied to the future of farming in the Golden State. Catch the full episode below, or on your favorite podcast app!

Send us a textThe hunt for affordable luxury often leads to unexpected places. Such is the case with Aldi's Specially Selected Napa Valley Brut, which at $17.99 might raise eyebrows among budget-conscious shoppers—until they taste it.This sparkling wine comes from respected producer Rack and Riddle, the behind-the-scenes maestros responsible for many quality bubblies that don't carry luxury price tags. What makes this offering special is its pedigree: genuine Napa Valley grapes cultivated specifically for sparkling wine production, harvested earlier than their still-wine counterparts, and crafted using the traditional champagne method. While Aldi doesn't disclose the exact grape composition, it likely follows the classic Brut formula of predominantly Chardonnay with Pinot Noir adding complexity and character.The tasting experience punches well above its price class. With bright acidity and refined flavor that could easily be mistaken for entry-level champagne in a blind tasting, this wine delivers tremendous value. While seasoned holiday shoppers might note that California outposts of famous champagne houses sometimes offer similar prices during promotional periods, finding this quality at $18 year-round is remarkable. For anyone looking to elevate their celebration without emptying their wallet, this Napa Valley Brut proves that sometimes, the best values hide in plain sight. Try it alongside appetizers at your next gathering or as an affordable luxury for your weekend wind-down—your palate will thank you while your budget breathes easy.Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Famed Chef Jonathan Waxman came to Wine Talks through a mutual friend who we lost last year to cancer; Melvin Masters was a one-of-a-kind character in the wine trade and Jonathans partner in the famed Jams Restaruarant.    On a recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee, I insisted that the group I was with follow me to Roberts Western (most probably the last true country bar in Nashville), for a fried bologna sandwich. They looked at me crosseyed and followed blindly. You see, we had just finished dinner and everyone had overeaten and were tired. But I knew if I didn't go the first night we were there, I wouldn't make it.  Pray tell, why would one do that? Well, if Jonathan Waxman says the first thing he did was take famed Italian Chef Giada De Laurentiis to experience the $5 fried bologna sandwich. Who shouldn't? A slice of flat top freid bologna between two pieces of white bread with a side of Lays potatoe chips, I was in hog heaven. Add a PBR, and you are off to the races. Jonathan Waxman is the kind of chef who can turn a honky tonk fried bologna sandwich in Nashville into high culinary art, then philosophize about the virtues of a perfectly marbled 1961 steak—all before your first glass of Beaujolais is finished. In this episode, you'll discover the inner workings of an acclaimed chef's mind as Jonathan shares the flavors, friendships, and formative experiences that shaped his career. You'll hear about how “wine comes first, food comes second” became his guiding principle, the serendipitous plane rides sourcing lamb and lobster for legendary winery dinners, and the awe-inspiring meals in the kitchens of France that sparked his lifelong passion for simplicity and flavor. Alongside host Paul Kalemkiarian, Jonathan revisits the rollicking days at Michael's and Jams, brushes elbows with food world icons from Alice Waters to Melvin Masters, and reveals the quiet intensity required to survive and thrive in the high-wire environment of fine dining. From the intricacies of nouvelle cuisine to the rainbow of immigrant influences shaping American food culture, you'll gain an insider's appreciation for the nuances of restaurant evolution, the subtle art of pairing local wines with regional dishes, and the uncompromising drive that keeps chefs inventing and adapting—even when the world turns upside down. Whether you're curious how the Michelin Guide still shapes a restaurant's fortunes, or just want to know what it's like to be mentored by legends while flying by the seat of your pants, this episode peels back the layers of taste, tradition, and tenacity, one delicious story at a time. Jordan Winery https://www.jordanwinery.com Willie's Wine Bar (Paris) https://www.willieswinebar.com Chez Panisse https://www.chezpanisse.com Domaine Chandon https://www.chandon.com Bordeaux Wine Region https://www.bordeaux.com Napa Valley https://www.visitnapavalley.com Michael's Santa Monica https://www.michaelssantamonica.com Barbuto https://www.barbutonyc.com Jams (NYC) https://www.jamsrestaurant.nyc Wally's Wine & Spirits https://www.wallywine.com Blue Hill https://www.bluehillfarm.com Daily Provisions (NYC) https://www.dailyprovisionsnyc.com Lutèce (Historic, closed, for reference) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lut%C3%A8ce_(restaurant) L'Orangerie (Historic, closed, Los Angeles) https://www.classiccafela.com/lorangerie/ Spago (Wolfgang Puck's Restaurant) https://wolfgangpuck.com/dining/spago-beverly-hills/ Mi Piace (Pasadena, CA) https://www.mipiace.com Campanile (Historic, closed, Los Angeles) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Campanile_(restaurant) Union Pasadena https://www.unionpasadena.com Benno (NYC) https://www.bennonyc.com French Culinary Institute/New York French Cooking School (now Institute of Culinary Education) https://www.ice.edu Le Cordon Bleu https://www.cordonbleu.edu Monterey Bistro (Historic, closed) https://www.seemonterey.com/listings/monterey-bistro/1197/ Ritz Paris Place Vendôme  https://www.ritzparis.com          #WineTalks #JonathanWaxman #PaulKalemkiarian #ChefInterview #FoodAndWinePairing #RestaurantStories #Barbuto #JamsRestaurant #ChezPanisse #AmericanCuisine #ItalianCuisine #WineCulture #MichelinStars #CulinaryInspiration #FoodHistory #ImmigrantInfluence #WineTasting #RestaurantIndustry #NouvelleCuisine #CulinaryMentorship #WineExperiences #PBR #bolognasandwich #giada #giadadelaurentiis

What do a high school jock turned Danny Zuko, a lung-collapse survivor in the middle of the 2008 crash, and a bourbon-country hotelier have in common? Will Hardy. In this episode, Zach sits down with Will — a creative entrepreneur, real estate maverick, and placemaker behind The Trail Hotel in Bardstown, Kentucky — to unpack a life defined by bold pivots, relentless grit, and audacious vision. From sneaking into a high school audition that would change his trajectory, to flipping 800+ homes, to nearly losing it all during the housing collapse, Will's story is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. You'll hear how desperation sharpened his creativity, how a hustler's spirit turned $100 into a flipping empire, and how faith, grit, and a little bourbon fueled his latest masterpiece: a $30M boutique hotel on the Bourbon Trail that's redefining Kentucky hospitality. But this isn't just a story about bricks, bourbon, and business. It's about a man who refused to be boxed in — who chased acting gigs in LA, launched a film production company, produced a feature on Milton Hershey, and still found the courage to start over (multiple times) with his wife and kids by his side. If you've ever wondered what it takes to chase audacious dreams, survive catastrophic setbacks, and build something truly lasting — this conversation will light a fire under you.Expect stories of mimosa-fueled negotiations, clown costumes that saved real estate deals, and the kind of visionary thinking that transforms abandoned Holiday Inns into Napa Valley–level destinations for bourbon lovers.   Explore The Trail Hotel: https://www.thetrailhotel.com Follow The Trail Hotel: https://www.instagram.com/thetrailhotel   Behind the Stays is brought to you by Journey — a first-of-its-kind loyalty program that brings together an alliance of the world's top independently owned and operated stays and allows travelers to earn points and perks on boutique hotels, vacation rentals, treehouses, ski chalets, glamping experiences and so much more. Your host is Zach Busekrus, Head of the Journey Alliance. If you are a hospitality entrepreneur who has a stay, or a collection of stays with soul, we'd love for you to apply to join our Alliance at journey.com/alliance.

Many vineyard owners eventually consider moving beyond grape growing into winemaking, whether to create a new revenue stream, take control of their fruit, or explore a more creative outlet. In this episode, we welcome winemaker and podcaster Jim Duane of Seavey Vineyard and the Inside Winemaking podcast for the first part of a two-part discussion on how growers can make this transition successfully. The conversation discusses the mindset, skills, and resources needed to move from vineyard to cellar. Jim shares why a formal chemistry degree isn't required to produce quality wine, how growers can build confidence in their palate, and which common flaws are most important to recognize early. He also outlines three stages of winemaking where growers need to focus their attention: harvest chemistry, fermentation management, and post-fermentation protection. Listeners will also gain insight into the required equipment for red and white winemaking, the importance of temperature control at each stage, and why barrels can be a turning point for quality. Fritz and Jim round out the discussion with advice on navigating licensing, compliance, and regulatory hurdles, plus a look at custom crush facilities as an option for growers who want to test the waters without a full winery investment. This episode delivers practical, confidence-building advice for any grower curious about making wine and lays the foundation for part two, where the focus shifts to how vineyard practices change once you're also the winemaker. In this episode, you will hear: Why a chemistry degree isn't necessary to make quality wine Three key stages of winemaking where growers must focus their attention The most common wine flaws every new winemaker should learn to detect Equipment essentials for red and white winemaking at a small scale How custom crush operations can help growers test the waters before fully committing Follow and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more listeners.

The unbelievable two-year run by Scottie Scheffler continues this week as the U.S. Ryder Cup team members played in Napa Valley in the Procore Championship. With his 6th win this season, Scheffler joined only Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods on the list of players to win 6 or more events in back-to-back seasons on the PGA Tour. Ryder Cup team member Ben Griffin had a chance to force a playoff with Scheffler, but 3-putted for par to lose by a shot. World number 1 amateur Jackson Koivun had his fourth straight top 10 finish on the PGA Tour, while handling the stress of playing in the final group. 11 of the 12 members of the European Ryder Cup team played in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth this week. Ironically enough, the hottest player on the planet not named Scottie Scheffler took the title. Alex Noren, who is a vica captain for the European team beat all of the Ryder Cup members en route to his 2nd BMW PGA Championship. Also in this episode we are talking 4 putts on the LPGA Tour, John Daly makes a massive number and Kapalua not going to be ready for the Sentry Championship this year? Subscribe to the Break80 Podcast on Apple, Spotify and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The good stuff is at the top of the hill@chandon @chandonusa @postandbeamwinery @maris_wines @chappellet_winery #wine #napavalley #podcast #radioshowCo hosts : Good ol Boy Harmeet, Good ol Boy Justin, Made Man BobSIPS – Get ready for an engaging journey through some exquisite wines from Napa Valley! In this episode, our hosts dive into a delightful lineup featuring Chandon's iconic sparkling wines, including the Chandon Brut and Brut Rosé, followed by a selection of robust reds from Post and Beam and Maris. They'll also explore the luxurious Chappellet Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, a true gem from the region.With plenty of laughter, spirited discussions, and detailed tasting notes, our hosts will rate each wine on a scale from 1 to 5, sharing their impressions and perfect food pairings along the way. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your exploration, this episode promises to be both entertaining and informative!7:35 CHANDON Brut California3 SIPS11:43 CHANDON Brut Rose California4 SIPS19:09 Post and Beam Carneros Chardonnay 20234 SIPS23:44 Post and Beam Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 20224 SIPS28:27 Merus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 20194 SIPS32:58 Chappellet Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 20215 SIPSinfo@sipssudsandsmokes.comX- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokesSips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Enjoying that cool Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back RoadsDownload your copy here:https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing / FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)COURTESY OF: AudioSparxTITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry WhiteheadPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry WhiteheadPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, & PodBeanProducer: Made Man BobExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeWine Tasting, Sparkling Wine, Chandon Brut California, Chandon Brut Rose, Napa Valley Wines, Post And Beam Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Wine Ratings, Wine Reviews, Wine Pairing, Wine Enthusiasts, Wine Education, Wine Culture, Wine And Food, Wine Producers, Wine Regions, Wine History, Wine Tasting Notes, Wine Recommendations, Wine Podcast

Send us a textEver stumbled upon a $30 wine selling for just $9? That's exactly what happened with the Saldo Australia Shiraz 2021, and I couldn't wait to share this remarkable find with you.This isn't just any discount bottle. The Saldo Australia Shiraz comes from The Prisoner Wine Company, once the passion project of Dave Phinney – the same winemaking genius behind Orin Swift. When Phinney sold The Prisoner brand to Constellation Brands for a staggering $233 million, it spoke volumes about the quality and reputation he had built. While Phinney has moved on, the exceptional standards remain, evidenced by their prestigious tasting room sitting proudly alongside Napa Valley's elite wineries.What makes this Shiraz truly special is its pedigree. Sourcing grapes from Australia's renowned Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, and Limestone Coast regions, this wine delivers a complexity that belies its current price point. Upon opening, you're greeted with a deep, brooding character that unfolds beautifully with decanting. The flavor profile is nothing short of mesmerizing – cassis, black licorice, and dark cola notes form the foundation, while subtle hints of berry fruits and vanilla add dimension. The mouthfeel is substantial without being overwhelming, with well-integrated tannins and balanced acidity that showcase thoughtful winemaking.Have you found yourself looking for that perfect wine to serve on cool autumn evenings when friends gather? This might be it. The Saldo Australia Shiraz offers that rare combination of accessibility and sophistication that makes wine sharing so memorable. Think of it as the liquid equivalent of a triple chocolate brownie – rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying. Whether paired with a hearty steak or simply enjoyed on its own, this wine delivers an experience well beyond its current price tag. Check out CheapWineFinder.com for the link to this exceptional deal while it lasts, and let me know if you manage to snag some bottles for yourself!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com

Matt Cook and Brent Grant dive into Bryson DeChambeau's caddie experience, offering insights into his short game. The episode highlights Brent's PGA Tour comeback and his engagement with social media. They introduce a pre-preview of the 2025 Ryder Cup, discussing predictions and Keegan Bradley's potential captaincy. First-timers on the Ryder Cup team and an analysis of the European squad are explored, along with Jon Rahm's pivotal role. Bryson's ban from Silverado and Brent's perspective on the course are debated. They reflect on the Napa Valley tournament experience, delve into the future of Grass League Golf, and discuss Ryder Cup ticket pricing implications. Wrapping up, Brent shares his preparation for Q School.

Why not us? Even though Team USA is all signed up to play the Procore Championship in Napa Valley as a warmup for the Ryder Cup Scottie Scheffler is still dead-set on preparing for this golf course and winning the week ahead! Kira K. Dixon catches up with the world no. 1 over in Napa, as well as his captain Keegan Bradley who made the trip there not to play -- but to keep tabs on his guys. 2019 U.S. Open Champion and one of Bradley's Vice Captains Gary Woodland is in the Procore field this week! He drops by the show to check in with Damon & Eamon. Gary Woodland (2:03)

Judd Finkelstein - known as The Fink, which is also the name of his award winning cocktail bar in Napa Valley - has been a drinks scholar from an early age, digging up classic recipes to try out on friends when they were still more about beer bongs. He even formed the Friends of Ardent Mixology (F.O.A.M.) decades ago, creating a community of like minded folks who enjoyed learning about all things spirit related. And he was a radio DJ by the tender age of 17! There are a lot of fun stories for you in this one, and he selected some great music for you to drink with as well: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0AP6BbezcRO9KGf3qYgYKI?si=l3fqIvfxSUmnd8cOA7snHQ

The Ryder Cup is a little less than two weeks away! We have Kira K. Dixon and Rex Hoggard on the ground in Napa Valley to get you up to speed with Team USA as they prep for the biggest team competition in golf. Meanwhile, across the pond, Team Europe is getting ready at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in England. Tune in to get the latest on both squads! Another iconic team competition wrapped up last week at Cypress Point. Stewart Hagestad and Team USA won big at the Walker Cup against Team GB & I. Hagestad joins the show to discuss how his perspective on the amateur event has changed as he's participated throughout the years -- and just how impressed he is by the new generation of golfers he got to tee it up with. Stewart Hagestad (20:23)

Episode 55 kicks off summer with special guest Guy Rebentisch. With over 30 years in restaurants he shares his stories of food, celebrities and the keys to success in surviving this ever changing industry. The group enjoyed some Schramsberg sparkling wine while reviewing the March 2025 St. Helena police log. Episode highlights include real wine crime, confused intruders and the love of Sunshine Market. Listeners can enjoy hearing about some of Napa Valley's most well known restaurants with the ultimate insider. 

TrulySignificant.com presents Olivia Dodd, the visionary Executive Director of Amplifi Napa Valley and a dynamic leader across the arts, film, and nonprofit sectors. With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit management and cultural leadership, Olivia continues to be a transformative force in advancing equity, creativity, and community engagement.Olivia's career has been marked by her dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering access to the arts. Prior to joining Amplifi Napa Valley, she served nearly seven years as President & CEO of Arts Council Napa Valley, where she spearheaded regionally acclaimed initiatives including the Poppy Award-winning Napa Valley Arts in April, The Creative Directory, and The Napa County Alliance for Arts Education—all of which helped strengthen arts advocacy, public funding, and cultural infrastructure in the region.In addition to her leadership in arts organizations, Olivia is a passionate film producer and storyteller. She is the founder of STORIED, a film and video production company dedicated to elevating narratives that connect communities and celebrate diverse perspectives. Her most recent short film, Traveling Past, which she produced, has garnered multiple accolades on the film festival circuit, including Best Experimental Short at the New Creators Film Awards, Official Selections at LA Shorts International Film Festival, Venice Shorts, New York Independent Cinema Awards, and more. Through film, Olivia continues to champion projects that shine a light on nuanced, intersectional experiences—further reflecting her deep commitment to storytelling as a tool for social connection and change.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/success-made-to-last-legends--4302039/support.

Morning Reflections and California's Challenges The AgNet News Hour with Nick Papagni and guest host Lorrie Boyer began lightheartedly, reflecting on post-Labor Day routines, before quickly turning to the serious challenges facing California agriculture. Recent thunderstorms in the Central Valley brought rare lightning-sparked fires near Madera, while wildfires threatened vineyards in Napa Valley, raising concerns about crop damage and smoke exposure. Boyer praised first responders who not only battle flames but also protect livestock, property, and agricultural operations during these crises. Wildfires and Insurance Struggles Papagni highlighted California's ongoing forest management concerns. Vast tracts of unmanaged forest continue to fuel devastating wildfires. He recalled earlier calls to strengthen the lumber industry as part of the solution, but progress has been slow. Insurance further complicates recovery. While crop insurance now covers smoke damage for vineyards, rural homeowners and farm operators face skyrocketing premiums—or outright withdrawal of coverage by major insurers. The Decline of Family Farms The program featured an interview with Brian Reisinger, author of Land Rich, Cash Poor. Reisinger described modern agriculture as an era of turbulence, where economic crises, shifting policies, soaring costs, and technological pressures are pushing many farmers to the brink. California farmers, already burdened by water shortages, must also contend with labor shortages, rising fertilizer prices, and high freight costs. These economic pressures are forcing many family farms to close, sell, or consolidate into larger corporate operations. Engaging Farmers and Communities Reisinger announced a book signing in Redding, California, to encourage open dialogue with farm families. He emphasized that while the problems are immense, solutions emerge when farmers, consumers, and policymakers work together. Communities remain deeply engaged and eager to find ways to sustain agriculture. Politics, Regulations, and Taxes Despite widespread political claims of “supporting farmers,” Reisinger argued that real action is rare. Farmers need policies that encourage entrepreneurship and access to new markets, not just rhetoric. California's heavy regulatory burden and high taxes, he said, harm small and medium farms just as much as large operations. Instead of helping “the little guy,” many rules unintentionally drive more farms out of business. Misunderstood Farmers and Vanishing Farmland Reisinger pointed to cases like dairy producer Stephanie Moreda in Petaluma, where NGOs attempted to seize farmland, as examples of farmers being unfairly vilified. He urged the public to recognize that family farmers are environmental stewards who care for soil, water, and livestock. Meanwhile, urban development in the Central Valley continues to devour farmland, adding pressure on limited water resources. Reisinger warned that the U.S. has already lost over 4 million farms in the last century, with fewer than 2 million left. If trends continue, many could vanish within 40 years. Trade Pressures and Unfair Competition Papagni shared the struggles of a Central Valley winery family facing unfair foreign competition. Reisinger explained that U.S. farmers face high labor and regulatory costs, while imports from countries with lower standards flood domestic markets. He called for smarter, commodity-specific trade negotiations, ensuring imports meet the same standards as U.S. products while protecting critical markets like raisins, beef, and tomatoes. Lessons from the Farm Crisis Reisinger drew parallels to the 1980s farm crisis, when government policies on debt and interest rates devastated many farm families. He warned that today's policymakers risk repeating mistakes by misunderstanding agricultural realities and placing additional burdens on producers. Water, Energy, and Political Missteps Water policy remains California's defining agricultural challenge. Papagni criticized priorities like solar panel expansion while 70% of the state's water flows unused to the ocean. Farmers, he argued, need real water storage solutions. Reisinger added that collaboration between environmentalists and farmers could yield shared benefits—if politics did not keep both sides entrenched. Education, FFA, and Generational Shifts Agricultural education programs like FFA play a vital role in reconnecting youth to farming. Boyer noted that membership is at an all-time high, reflecting renewed interest, but Papagni cautioned that many farm families still see younger generations leaving agriculture altogether. This generational gap extends beyond farming to related industries like trucking, creating labor shortages across the supply chain. Automation and Drones: Farming's Future Technology offers one path forward. Papagni encouraged youth to pursue careers in agricultural automation, from precision irrigation to drone technology. Farmers already save up to 30% of water with precision systems, and drones promise even more efficiency in spraying, scouting, and monitoring. Boyer agreed, noting the potential for oversaturation but affirming automation's inevitability in agriculture. Immigration Reform and the Dignity Act Immigration remains a central concern. Papagni highlighted the efforts of Manuel Cunha, president of the Nisei Farmers League, to advance HR 4393, the Dignity Act. The bill offers pathways for long-term farmworkers who have contributed to U.S. communities, while tightening border security, mandating E-verify, and reforming asylum procedures. Papagni broke the immigration issue into three groups: Long-term workers who deserve legal protections. New entrants who must undergo background checks and proper vetting. Criminal entrants who bypass the system entirely and must be removed. Coyotes and cartels, he warned, exploit migrants with exorbitant fees and violent threats, making reform urgent. Political Courage and the Road Ahead Boyer added that fear extends even to legal workers, underscoring the need for reform. Papagni lamented that many politicians delay action, waiting to see what the Trump administration does instead of leading decisively. Representative Maria Elvira Salazar of Florida has emerged as a key sponsor of the Dignity Act, but broader bipartisan support is still needed. Conclusion California agriculture sits at a crossroads. Wildfires, water shortages, shrinking farms, international competition, and a broken immigration system are reshaping the industry. Yet hope remains in innovation, community engagement, and legislative reforms like the Dignity Act. As Papagni and Boyer closed the program, they reminded listeners that farming is not just an industry—it is the backbone of California's communities, economy, and food security. For more agricultural updates, visit AgNetWest.com and subscribe to the AgNet West podcast.

In this episode of the Friends of NPACE Podcast, join NPACE team members Lisa Mathis, Danielle Slavin and Catherine Frattasio to discuss our highly anticipated conference in Orlando this November 2-5th. Hear about the luxurious Hilton Signia resort, the diverse educational sessions being covered such as vital topics like thyroid disease and human trafficking, & the unique networking opportunities that await attendees. Listen to the end for a sneak peek into our 2026 events in Nashville, Delray, Cape Cod, and Napa Valley. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and connect with fellow healthcare professionals at our last CE/CME event in 2025 at Orlando!

“About that date?”In 3 parts, by Member389. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. School went quickly, with nobody lingering on a Friday and Ellie got a ride to work. She thought about what the specials had been today and decided to whip up something special for Luke. It wasn't easy on a Friday night, it was pretty busy, but the regular clientele dropped off quickly after dinner, knowing that the café closed at 8. A couple tables sported coffee sipping hipsters but for the most part the place had cleared out by then. Ellie had whipped up a little dish for them to share while she cleaned up the kitchen."Damn." Came a voice through the little window. Jody, one of the servers had whispered loud enough to be heard. "He's hot." Ellie popped her head up and scanned where Jody was looking and saw look scanning back and forth. She grinned ear to ear."Back off, he's already taken." She said softly, but with a little edge of threat in her voice. He may not be taken yet, but she didn't need any competition from the bubbly little server. "Can you sit him over at the chef's table.Jody chuckled. "Some chef's table, it's just the table nearest the kitchen door. What's his name?""His name is Luke, and be nice, I have a large selection of cutlery at hand, and I know how to use it."Jody walked over and introduced herself. Saying that Ellie had told her she had a friend stopping by. "She said a dark eyed handsome stranger was coming to pick her up. I told her to snap out of it, Prince Charming isn't real. Then you have to go and prove me wrong." She smiled, and steered him over to the table against the wall near the kitchen, and fawned over him for a moment and got him a drink. Ellie made sure nothing was burning and wiped her hands on her apron and snuck out of the kitchen.A smile spread across Luke's face when he saw her, which warmed her heart. She walked over and he stood up, such a gentleman she thought. She couldn't help herself and walked right up to him and kissed him softly. At first he seemed surprised but he didn't take long to return it."Hi." She said drawing it out. "Are you hungry?""You mentioned dinner, so I haven't eaten since lunch." He grinned."Good, park it, and I'll go whip it up." She winked at him and turned and wiggled back into the kitchen. Her ponytail danced back and forth as she peeked over her shoulder to make sure he was watching. She put herself into work mode and started pulling ingredients together. When in work mode Ellie was a sight to behold, like a kitchen ninja she got more done with fewer moves than anybody else in the café.What seemed like only a few minutes later she walked out of the kitchen with two plates of seared scallops and linguine, setting one down in front of Luke and the other across from him."One second." She said as she reached down and pulled the apron string sliding it off her waist. She unbuttoned the chef's coat she wore and dodged back into the kitchen to hang them up.She sat down and they began. Ellie peeking up to see if Luke was enjoying it. The speed with which he was eating told her what she wanted to know."I should have asked you if there was anything you didn't like. I didn't even think of that beforehand. Seafood can be touchy for some people. Hell I didn't even think to ask if you were allergic." She said getting frustrated with herself."No, it's delicious!" He was being completely genuine. He saw her getting upset and reached across the table to take her hand and rubbed the back of it with is thumb. "I love seafood. My family used to go out to the beach in the summer;” He trailed off, his expression softened.It was Ellie's turn to comfort, and she took his hand firmly in hers. "Tell me about it. I bet you had a blast." Luke went on to tell her about a trip to the beach they'd taken years earlier and he and his dad had gone fishing and he caught a striper that nearly hauled him overboard. He went from excited to wistful. She knew he was thinking about his mother, his dad had told her the previous week, and sympathized with him."I baked a small batch of cookies when I got here. Want to try one? They're sort of an experiment, but I think they came out pretty good."Never one to pass up a cookie he smiled and nodded."That's what I love about working here. I get indulge my creativity, and if things work out sometimes it makes it on the specials board." She said setting down the frosted lemon sugar cookies. They talked for a while longer and a loud scrape of a chair pulled them out of their reverie. Jody had been sweeping and Ellie noticed the time. They had closed nearly half an hour before."Oh my god. I'm sorry Jody. I lost track of time." Ellie hopped up and started clearing the table."No worries hon. I can see why. You just need to clean up that and we're out of here. I'd ask if you need a ride home, but I think I already know the answer to that." She chuckled.Ellie wiped down the table and Luke helped out by flipping the last few chairs up onto the tables so Jodie could finish sweeping. He waited in the front while the girls finished up in the back. He looked out the window at the darkened street, the old style street lamps lending small town charm to the night. They came out of the kitchen whispering between themselves."You're sure you don't need a ride? This one looks a little dangerous." Jodi said laughing."I'm fine, besides he knows where I live, he's my landlord." Ellie grinned."I wasn't talking to you, I'm worried for him." They all got a chuckle out of that as they locked up and made their way to their cars. Luke opened up the door and held it for Ellie, these small gestures went over much bigger than he realized.On the ride neither spoke when Luke felt Ellie's hand lay on the back of his giving it a squeeze. "Thank you for saving my ass today." He just looked over and shrugged."You would have done the same for me I'm sure." He smiled at her for a moment and turned back to the road. He was honestly elated that her car hadn't started.Ellie sighed. "I hope it's nothing major. My dad had the car gone over before I came back to school. I can't afford anything big." She looked out the window, the lights of town faded behind them as they entered the suburbs."Tomorrow's Saturday, I can take a look at it if you want, if it's something simple I can probably fix it.""Oh, would you?" She squeezed his hand harder. They got back to the house and Ellie reached over the seat to grab her bag. Luke watched her lean frame twist, and her rear end stick up, her jeans stretched over it nicely. He remembered just how nice it felt too and longed to hold it again. Ellie was no fool, she knew full well Luke was staring at her ass while she pretended to be looking for something in her bag. It didn't hurt to pique his interest though. She sat back in the seat dragging the bag over with her."You coming up?" She asked smiling."I don't know, you probably have stuff to do. You know school work or something?""I do have some reading to do, but I can do that later. I'm feeling a little restless and I can't sit still and read when I'm like this." Luke's eyebrows went up a bit."You don't have to. I mean if you want to come up and grab the car keys in the morning that's fine too." Her smile began to fade."Oh, I can get them now, that way you can sleep in if you want to.""Have something planned for tomorrow yet?" Ellie asked sweetly. Luke just grinned. "You're not going to give me a hint? A girl needs to know how to prepare for a date you know.""Jeans will be fine, and bring a sweater or sweatshirt in case it gets cold. Oh, and walking shoes.""So something outdoors? Okay then."He wouldn't give her any more information than that. He enjoyed keeping her guessing."Would you like to play a game? I found a box with my bucket of Jenga blocks while I was unpacking some stuff last night." Luke nodded smiling and Ellie went and got the game. They sat on the couch and Ellie started stacking blocks and handed the bucket to Luke and directed him to keep stacking and she went to the bedroom and slipped off her jeans putting on lounge pants with some mall store logo down the leg and came back."That feels better. Do you want something to drink? I've got a bottle of wine, or something else maybe?" He agreed to whatever she wanted. She opened the bottle of wine and poured a couple glasses and brought it over to the table putting them out of the way of game."Have you ever had wine before?""I'm nineteen, I haven't been under a rock." He chuckled. "My mother liked wine so I've tried several different types and I like it." He took a sip and swirled around his mouth taking in a little breath of air. "Stone fruit, oak, I'd say a California Chardonnay." He added. It was Ellie's turn to raise eyebrows."Very good! Napa Valley to be exact." She looked at the blocks and noted he hadn't put the last one on the top yet. She took it and put both hands behind her back. Luke noted just how nicely her top stretched across her chest as she did this. "Pick a hand." He picked the one with the block winning the starting move."What are we playing for?" He asked, sounding crafty."I don't know. What do you have in mind?" She smirked, wondering if he had the same thing in mind that she did.He shrugged. "Loser has to perform a strip tease for the winner." She grinned ear to ear hearing this."Okay hot shot. I'll have you know I'm a master at this game. I hope you're wearing cute briefs.""Maybe, you'll have to win to find out."They both concentrated on the game intently for a few moves, and then the smack talk began. They taunted one another as the blocks started to wobble. "I don't know, maybe you should stay in the kitchen and let us real men handle the engineering." Luke said. Ellie reached over and flicked his ear sharply causing him to yelp in pain while he giggled.The game progressed more slowly as the tower got more shaky. Eventually the tower fell to Ellie placing a block on top. "Shit." She said, but she didn't really mind it. She was actually excited about this idea. She had hoped to see him perform for her but the exhibitionist streak in her wanted to show off to him too. "Put the blocks away and find some music you like. I'll be right back.""Where are you going?" He asked picking up the blocks watching her stand. She leaned over and turned the lights down."Well if I'm going to do this, I'm going to do it right." She winked and went into the bedroom again. He had toted up the game and set it aside and grinned to himself that he'd pulled off the coup. After the other night all he'd been able to think about is her body. Her pert breasts, and smooth skin, now he was going to see her strip for him. He was flipping through music until he found some dance music. He started tapping his foot and realized she didn't have much room, so he slid the coffee table aside toward the window. The window! He drew the curtains so nobody would see her. The song he was listening to finished and she still hadn't come back. He wondered momentarily if he'd gone too far when he heard her open the bedroom door. She must have turned off the lights before opening it because he didn't get a peek until she walked out into the room.She had put her hair up in a lazy twist on top of her head, and changed into a red satin top and gray skirt. She had even gone so far as to put on heels. She looked absolutely stunning as she walked out and noted that he'd made room for her. A small smirk touched her now red lips as she noted the look on his face. She was happy with the reaction but didn't want to let on that she was enjoying his prize as much as he was. She looked off into the distance and listened, then nodded."Are you ready for me, Luke?" She asked, her voice husky.He knew the line she quoted was from a movie, but he just sat there, his mouth hanging open.She quirked her lips in a wry smile. She began to move with the music stepping carefully, heels on a carpet weren't conducive to graceful movement. She reached down and slipped the heels off tossing them aside and continued. Her sensual movements were already having an effect on Luke and for the first time he didn't care if he hid it or not. Ellie was beautiful, and he was totally captivated by her. She had turned sideways and began unbuttoning the cuffs of her blouse, she turned her back to him, her hips swayed to the music as she got into the music. She reached up and pulled the hair clip out and shook her head, letting her hair cascade down around her shoulders. She looked over her shoulder shooting him a sensual gaze, her hands worked the buttons of her blouse open. She spun around holding the front of her blouse closed and stepped towards him letting her hands fall as the blouse opened giving him a peek of the red and black bra she was wearing beneath it. He swallowed audibly and his jaw dropped open again."Thirsty?" She reached over and handed him the half empty wine glass. He took the glass and practically gulped the remaining wine. "Now we hadn't spoken of limits before this all started. Am I on my own with regards to how far I let this go?" She quirked an eyebrow at him, knowing full well she was going all the way, but let him wonder just what he was going to see. She reached up and lifted the blouse from her shoulders and let it slide down her arms slowly. She flipped the blouse over the back of the couch next to him. He could smell her perfume, it was stronger than before.He swallowed audibly. "Yes, as far as you're comfortable with.""Is it how you imagined it would be?" He just nodded at her open mouthed. She tapped his ankles wider and danced between his spread legs swaying to the music and lifting her skirt giving him a peek of her smooth thighs. She noted that his jeans were straining to contain him. She couldn't wait to get a look at him either. She turned with the music and reached behind her making a come hither motion with her finger and pointed at the zipper on the back of her skirt. He didn't move for a moment and she looked over her shoulder at him and he was staring at her shimmy back and forth. He didn't move, and she directed his attention back to the zipper. As he reached forward she swayed to the side then back again avoiding his grip. He managed to catch the zipper and slide it down slowly exposing the back of her black satin panties. He reached up and pushed the fabric together releasing the hook. She took his hands and laid them flat on her hips as she swayed with the music. She gave them a small nudge downward and he understood she wanted him to remove the skirt. The skirt gave way as it slipped past her hips, and he gasped at seeing her beautiful behind swaying in front of his face. She stepped free of the skirt and he bent to pick it up and laid it next to her blouse on the back of the couch as she turned."How am I doing?" She asked softly. He just nodded excitedly. Ellie was pretty sure that if she asked him to, he'd rob a bank for her right now. It was an exhilarating feeling for her to have him in this state of excitement. "Good." She smiled.She danced slowly to Wonderful Tonight. How appropriate he thought. As he stared in wide eyed wonder at this beautiful girl.She ran her hands up and down her body slowly, her head swayed from side to side, her hair partly covered her face as she did. She peeked up at him as the song ended. She nudged his legs together again, and reached down and pulled his knees together. She turned and sat on the very edge of his lap, her ass just barely on his knees. She reached behind her and fanned out her hair and gathered it up over her head. The next song began and she waited for him to take the cue."Undo me."Luke wasn't sure who's undoing it was when he reached up and unhooked her bra, his hands shaking. She let her hair fall as soon as he did and took the shoulder straps down one at a time before standing again. She held it in place as she released first one then the other shoulder straps. She turned her back to him and tossed the bra to him over her shoulder. He put it with the rest of her clothing. She was standing there swaying in only her black lace panties. He noticed they had a tiny red bow on the front when she had walked over to him a minute before. She spun around with the music, her hands cupping her breasts as she took a step towards him, her nipples stood out hard and pink. She swayed to the music losing herself in the beat. She leaned forward placing her hands on his shoulders."We're done, right? I mean, you didn't want me to take everything off did you?" She was clearly taunting him. Luke closed his mouth, swallowing hard and opened again to speak and nothing came out."No? Okay, I guess we're done then." She said standing again."No! I mean please; I;” Luke stammered."Please what, Luke?" She asked innocently."Please take them off." He whispered desperately."No Luke, if you'd like them off, then you take them off." She replied turning her body in a few circular sways. She banged her hips side to side with the beat of the music, and looked over her shoulder to see what he was doing. His eyes were following her ass as she swung it back and forth. She stopped moving."Well?" She asked over her shoulder. Luke raised shaky hands from his lap wondering if this was real or if he was going to get slapped away at the last minute. His hands were like fire on her skin sending butterflies to her core as he ran his thumbs down, pulling the lacy fabric with them. He was going slowly, the fabric peeling off like the skin from a fruit. They slipped over her beautiful behind and the fabric stuck between her legs for a moment, but he kept pulling, down her smooth thighs past her knees. He let go and saw the slightest peek of her lips, they were pink and very wet. She stepped out of the panties and took a step away from him and turned covering herself with her hand.The scent that bloomed now that her panties were off made his breathing even more shallow and fast. He honestly wasn't sure why his jeans hadn't exploded yet."Are you sure you want to see?" She said, her voice low and husky as she swayed with the music again.He only nodded slowly as he stared at the hand she was covering herself with. She drew her hand lightly against her body and slowly ran it up over to her hip uncovering herself for him. She was shaved and pink, moisture shone on her slight lips. She danced for another song, winked at Luke and disappeared into the bedroom.Luke started panting, not believing what had just happened. Ellie was so turned on she had to force herself to keep her hands off herself or she'd explode. There would be no telling what Luke would do if he heard her moaning in the throes of an orgasm. Though part of her hoped he wouldn't contain himself and burst in the door throwing her on the bed and having his way with her. She took several deep breaths as she grabbed her bathrobe pulling it on, the soft fabric grazing her taut nipples. She walked back out into the living room and Luke swiveled to see her. A momentary crest-fallen look came to his eyes. Until she sat next to him and nestled against him giving him a long deep kiss."You'd better brush up on your dance moves buddy, next time I'm going to beat the pants off you, literally." She said as she softly bit his lower lip. They made out for a while longer, Ellie slowing him down when he got excited. "We should probably get to bed." She said, and Luke's eyes went wide. Ellie stood and went and got her keys pulling the car key free of the chain and brought it back to him. "Thanks for the ride today. You really saved my ass.""Any time." He said reaching for the key, realizing tonight was done he seemed to get puppy eyes and Ellie just wanted to wrap him up and bundle him off to bed herself but she made herself a promise that she wasn't going to jump him on the first date. Little did Luke realize that tonight was, in her mind, their first date. No matter what he planned for tomorrow, she was done teasing him, she was going to have him. She walked him to the door."I can't wait for tomorrow. I bet it will be fun." She smiled and kissed him and grabbed his ass giving it a squeeze through the jeans. "I can't wait to get you out of these." She thought before she reached for the door.Luke made his way down the steps and went into the house putting his hands into his pockets to hopefully disguise the bulge if his Dad was still up. He walked in and heard the TV and poked his head in to let him know he was home and going to bed."Did you two have fun?" He asked. Luke said yes, not entering the little den, but speaking from the dark of the doorway. He turned to go to his room and his dad burst out laughing. He looked over his shoulder and wondered what was so funny, and figured it was just something on TV. He had a distinct problem and figured a shower would help him out with it. He hadn't closed his door for more than a minute when there was a soft rap on it."Yea?" He said. The door opened and dad peeked in."Hey, I'm glad you two are getting along so well, just be careful Luke.""What do you mean?"Dad took a deep breath and started. "I just don't want to see you get hurt. She's a pretty girl, but this is her last year, right? I just don't want you to fall head over heels and have her leave you high and dry.""I won't, we're just friends.""Mmm hmm." His dad stepped forward and reached behind him and tugged the black lace panties from the back pocket of his jeans and held them up. "Just make sure you protect yourself." He grinned, handing them to Luke, his face was beet red. Dad smirked and left the room closing the door behind him. He went to take his shower shaking his head.To be continued in part 3, by Member389 for Literotica.

Join us today as we have a conversation with Chris Morisoli from Morisoli Vineyard. Chris is a fifth-generation farmer from Morisoli Vineyard in Napa Valley and he shares his journey from serving as a helicopter pilot and volunteer fireman to managing his family's historic vineyard.  The conversation highlights the vineyard's evolution, the challenges of maintaining old vines, and the importance of building strong relationships in the wine industry. Chris also discusses the creation of the Morisoli wine brand, the logistics of grape harvesting, and the significance of traditions like challenge coins. Throughout the episode, Chris emphasizes the importance of long-term planning in vineyard management and maintaining quality in winemaking. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Morisoli Vineyard https://morisolivineyard.com/ This episode is sponsored by Harvest Pillar concrete trellis posts. Want to know why more growers are going for concrete? It's because Harvest Pillar is the last trellis post you'll ever need: https://www.harvestpillar.com/ Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

A few years ago, a young woman was interning at the Original Wine of the Month Club. Her internship revolved around social networking, office duties, and one particular job that may have set her career path. Lisa Kassabian was to write the talking points for all my podcasts that featured a woman in wine.  She would research the guest, write up peritnent points, present the to me and together we would redirect or correct. When that work was completed, Lisa was invited on set to hear how her questions worked and how the guest would respond. Maybe I had something to do with it, it would certainly make sense...because eventually, Lisa became an Enology student at Cornell University.  At the University, all students in this curriculum are required to do an internship before they graduate. This is the story of Lisa's internship at the famed Chateau Haut Bailly. For sure, if you want to know the insights a young wine Enology student might gain from the academic side and the practical side of wine...this is the episode. Lisa Kassabian never expected that an afterschool “All About Grapes” club would spark a journey from a Los Angeles vineyard to the heart of Bordeaux. In this episode of Wine Talks, you'll discover how a childhood passion for science—and a hobby vineyard at home—led Lisa from California to Cornell, and ultimately, to an eye-opening internship in France. You'll gain a rare behind-the-scenes view of the very real intersections between wine, science, and culture, as Lisa reveals how pruning and fermentation chemistry connect to centuries of tradition. Listen closely and you'll learn what really happens when theory meets the terroir: from tackling grapevine netting and barrel racking to navigating French hospitality, language barriers, and immaculate cellars. Through Lisa's first-hand stories, you'll hear what distinguishes French winemaking—the meticulous attention to detail, relentless innovation, and deep cultural ties that set Bordeaux apart from Napa. Ever wonder what it's like to balance the academic rigor of soil science classes with tasting your family's Sauvignon Blanc in sunny California? Or how it feels to pour wine at a charity gala in a historic French château? This episode peels back the reality of building a global wine career, from landing international internships to learning the business beyond the classroom, and even discovering which French pastries pair best with your morning commute. By the end, you'll understand not only the pathways women are carving into the industry, but also why every bottle holds a world of stories, science, and adventure—a revelation sure to inspire future vintners and aficionados alike.   Cornell University https://www.cornell.edu   UC Davis (University of California, Davis) https://www.ucdavis.edu   Château Haut-Bailly https://www.haut-bailly.com   Sequoia Grove Winery https://www.sequoiagrove.com   Smith Haut Lafitte https://www.smith-haut-lafitte.com   Château Lynch-Bages https://www.lynchbages.com   Château Giscours https://www.giscours.com #wineTalks #LisaKassabian #PaulKalemkiarian #viticulture #enology #CornellUniversity #wineinternship #ChateauHautBailly #Bordeaux #NapaValley #womeninwine #Frenchwine #wineeducation #vineyardmanagement #winemaking #winescience #Frenchculture #wineindustry #winecareers #winepodcast  

Send us a textIn our Last Podcast Of Season 6 The team visits Iron Fish Distillery in Thompsonville, Michigan, where they explore the nine-year-old farm-based operation producing grain-to-glass whiskey with locally grown ingredients including their signature hazelnut rye.• Iron Fish grows over 80 acres of hazelnut rye, having recently harvested 100,000 pounds for their whiskey production• Started by sourcing MGP whiskey with unique barrel finishing while waiting for their own distillate to mature• Mad Angler series represents their premium line featuring 100% house-distilled whiskey aged six years• Brand draws inspiration from local author Michael Delp and the fishing culture of Northern Michigan• Tasting includes their 95% rye whiskey, four-grain bourbon, and experimental offerings like their Manifesto series• Distillery balances traditional methods with innovation, creating unique flavor profiles in their limited releases• Iron Fish's motto "returning spirit to its origin" parallels steelhead trout returning to the Betsy River with bringing whiskey back to its farm roots• Their small-batch blending program showcases the importance of finding the perfect proof point for each expressionFind Iron Fish Distillery's products on shelves throughout Michigan or visit their tasting room to experience their full lineup including exclusive releases.Down a dirt road in Thompsonville, Michigan, something special is happening at Iron Fish Distillery. This nine-year-old farm-based operation has emerged as a beacon of craft distilling excellence in the Great Lakes region, creating whiskeys that honor local agricultural traditions while pushing creative boundaries.The distillery's story mirrors the lifecycle of the steelhead trout that swim in the nearby Betsy River—the namesake "iron fish" that return to their birthplace after journeying through Lake Michigan. Similarly, Iron Fish represents a return of spirits to their agricultural origins, where grain and water transform into something greater than the sum of their parts.During our visit, we explored their impressive 80-acre operation where they've just harvested over 100,000 pounds of hazelnut rye destined for their whiskey. Their strategic approach to growth—sourcing quality MGP whiskey for creative barrel finishing while patiently waiting for their own distillate to mature—has positioned them for long-term success rather than rushing immature product to market.The Mad Angler series stands as their premium offering, featuring 100% house-distilled spirits aged six years. Drawing inspiration from local author Michael Delp, these bottles literally emboss the connection between fishing culture and whiskey appreciation. The 95% rye whiskey delivers balanced spearmint and chocolate notes without overwhelming dill characteristics, while their four-grain bourbon offers exceptional complexity at 94 proof. Most impressive is their experimental Manifesto series, which grants blender Isaac complete creative freedom to work with any barrel on the property, resulting in truly distinctive expressions.What makes Iron Fish exceptional isn't just the quality of their spirits but their holistic approach to the craft. From their barrel selection process—working with both local cooper Joe Smith and premium Napa Valley suppliers—to their careful consideration of proof points, every decision serves the spirit rather than Add for SOFL If You Have GohstsSupport the showhttps://www.scotchybourbonboys.com The Scotchy bourbon Boys are #3 in Feedspots Top 60 whiskey podcasts in the world https://podcast.feedspot.com/whiskey_podcasts/

Why This Beauty App Knows What You Need Before You DoIn this episode of Your Day Off, Corey Gray and Gabby Bach sit down with Charity Hudnall, CMO of Vagaro, to unpack the features that are making Vagaro a true ally to beauty professionals.Key takeaways:Why the textured hair badge is a game-changer for clients and stylistsWhat Vagaro is doing behind the scenes with AI (and how it's already helping your biz)Charity's personal stories and why inclusivity isn't a trend—it's a responsibilityReal talk on the future of trades, tech, and the industry's human-first soulThe scoop on Iconic 25 in Napa Valley: education, wine, and industry changemakersWhether you're running a solo suite or scaling multiple locations, this convo offers real value for how to grow your salon with purpose, tech, and heart.

Jaclyn Lee reports from Los Angeles, firefighters race to contain a wildfire that's tearing through Napa Valley; Olivia Rubin reports from New York, officials are warning residents to stay inside and avoid contact with thick black smoke after a plant explosion in Louisiana; Katherine Faulders reports from Washington, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the man mistakenly sent to a notorious El Salvador prison, may be facing deportation to Uganda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"The Shepherd" from Psalm 22-23 was preached by Pastor Mike Ray at Hopewell Baptist Church on Sunday Morning, 8/24/2025. You can watch the video archive of this sermon on our church website. You can also watch archived services on Vimeo, YouTube, Medium, or audio podcast. Stay up to date by following us on Facebook and Instagram. Hopewell Baptist Church is an Independent Baptist Church in Napa, California pastored by Mike Ray. It is Bible-based with a warm, friendly atmosphere. Hopewell is dedicated to bringing the water of life to the Napa Valley and beyond.

"The Enemy Is Glad When You Are Mad" from Matthew 5:21-22 was preached by Pastor Mike Ray at Hopewell Baptist Church on Sunday Evening, 8/24/2025. You can watch the video archive of this sermon on our church website. You can also watch archived services on Vimeo, YouTube, Medium, or audio podcast. Stay up to date by following us on Facebook and Instagram. Hopewell Baptist Church is an Independent Baptist Church in Napa, California pastored by Mike Ray. It is Bible-based with a warm, friendly atmosphere. Hopewell is dedicated to bringing the water of life to the Napa Valley and beyond.

Ukraine is marking its Independence Day. Hurricane Erin caused widespread flooding across coastal areas of the state. Israel is rejecting a UN-backed report which has confirmed famine in parts of Gaza. India says it's continuing trade talks with US as total tariff rate about to jump to 50% Pierre Poilievre is poised to return to the House of Commons this fall after a decisive win in an Alberta byelection. The Pickett fire in Napa Valley has grown to nearly 1300 hectares. It is the final weekend of Canada Games.

Lillie was full of spit and fire@Larkmeadvineyards @hallwines #wine #napavalleywine #cabernetwine #podcast #radioshow #hostCo hosts : Good ol Boy Harmeet, Good ol Boy Justin, Made Man BobSIPS – Join us for a delightful exploration of fine wines in this episode of Sips, Suds, & Smokes! Our hosts dive into a tasting of exceptional selections from Napa Valley. With plenty of humor and spirited debates, the hosts share their tasting experiences and ratings while discussing the rich history behind each winery. From the spirited origins of Larkmead to the stunning architecture of Hall, the stories behind these wines are as captivating as the flavors themselves. Expect lively banter about food pairings (yes, a bacon show is on the horizon!) and detailed tasting notes that reveal the nuances of each wine, from floral aromas to dark fruit flavors.Get ready for an entertaining and educational journey through the world of wine, complete with ratings from 1 to 5 , ensuring there's something for every wine enthusiast. Tune in and discover why 2021 is hailed as a remarkable vintage for both Larkmead and Hall!05:25 Larkmead Firebelle Red 20214 SIPS11:14 Larkmead Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 20214 SIPS15:17 Larkmead Solari Cabernet Sauvignon 20215 SIPS21:35 Hall 1873 Cabernet Sauvignon 20214 SIPS28:30 Hall Jacks Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon 20215 SIPS33:47  Kathryn Hall 20215 SIPSinfo@sipssudsandsmokes.comX- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokesSips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Enjoying that cool Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back RoadsDownload your copy here:https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing / FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)COURTESY OF: AudioSparxTITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry WhiteheadPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry WhiteheadPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, & PodBeanProducer: Made Man BobExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeWine Tasting, Larkmead Wines, Hall Wines, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Wine Ratings, Wine Reviews, Wine And Food Pairing, Wine Enthusiasts, Wine History, Wine Production, Wine Recommendations, Tasting Notes

"Pre-Tribulation Rapture" from Matthew 24:3 was preached by Pastor Mike Ray at Hopewell Baptist Church on Midweek Service, 8/20/2025. You can watch the video archive of this sermon on our church website. You can also watch archived services on Vimeo, YouTube, Medium, or audio podcast. Stay up to date by following us on Facebook and Instagram. Hopewell Baptist Church is an Independent Baptist Church in Napa, California pastored by Mike Ray. It is Bible-based with a warm, friendly atmosphere. Hopewell is dedicated to bringing the water of life to the Napa Valley and beyond.

Discover the art and passion behind Abloom, a distinctive rosé wine brand crafted by winemakers Molly Hill, Ashley Hepworth, and Sally Blum. This episode discusses their experiences from UC Davis to Napa Valley, highlighting their unique collaboration and the meticulous process of creating a high-quality rosé.  They share about their use of fermentation techniques and the thoughtful design elements that embody their brand's philosophy of flourishing and abundance. Listen as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a wine brand, offering a glimpse into the complexities of winemaking and the collaborative spirit that drives A'Bloom's success. Winemaking Class Offers and Show Notes for all episodes at https://www.insidewinemaking.com/ Resources from this Episode Abloom Wine https://www.abloomwine.com/ This episode is sponsored by Innovint. Wineries of all sizes rely on InnoVint's winery operating system to optimize vineyard tracking, manage wine production processes, automate compliance reporting, track costs seamlessly, and make data-driven decisions. The best part? The software is intuitive, easy to use, and mobile and offline-friendly! And with the highest-rated customer service in the industry, you're guaranteed to have a smooth transition, even right before harvest. Learn more: https://www.innovint.us/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=insidewinemaking Get a demo of the product: https://www.innovint.us/request-a-demo/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=insidewinemaking Join our free winemaking community, The Punchdown: https://www.innovint.us/join-the-punchdown/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=insidewinemaking Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

On this Episode of the DWA! Podcast, Lane and Clark Sopper of RoundCat Racing are recording from a cafe in Napa Valley. Clark discusses his trips to Lake Como, and Goodwood for the festival of speed, and tunning shops like GTO Engineering.We also talk about the upcoming RoundCat Rally in Japan, and why everyone listening NEEDS to go. Check out RoundCat Racing and info about his rally at www.roundcat.jp

What happens when your orchards begin to rot, your industry collapses, and California starts beating you at your own game? If you're Seth Lewelling, you plant harder - and you get political with your cherries.In this episode, John and Patrick trace the dramatic unraveling of Oregon's once-thriving fruit economy and the quiet resilience of Seth Lewelling, whose visionary grafting experiments - including the boldly named Black Republican cherry - became acts of agricultural resistance. As Oregon wilted, California soared, and the Lewellings were right there at the epicenter of both decline and rebirth.From rootstock innovations to golden-skinned prunes, from nursery collapses to bank-led agricultural reform, and from Spiritualist love stories to raisin kilns and winegrowers' clubs - this is the story of a family (and a fruit industry) constantly reinventing itself in the face of loss, change, and opportunity.Join John and Patrick as they explore how Seth and John Lewelling didn't just adapt to the changing tides of 19th-century horticulture - they helped shape them, transforming Pacific agriculture and leaving a legacy that would reach far beyond the orchard rows.----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review -----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Step into history - literally! Now is your chance to own a pair of The History of Fresh Produce sneakers. Fill out the form here and get ready to walk through the past in style.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com

On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down for an illuminating conversation with Larry Turley, founder of Turley Wine Cellars. This episode dives deep into Larry's remarkable journey from growing up on an organic farm in Tennessee, navigating the Jim Crow South, and working as an ER doctor, to ultimately founding one of California's most iconic Zinfandel houses.MJ and Larry weave through everything from early experiences with wine, family influences, and the evolution of Napa Valley's wine scene, to the preservation of historic vineyards, the art of old vine Zinfandel, and the unique quirks and personalities that have shaped Turley Wine Cellars. You'll hear about the challenges and rewards of organic farming, the critical importance of education and literacy, and Larry's culinary adventures that pair perfectly with his legendary wines.If you love stories of transformation, American culture, and the intersection of philosophy, music, and lifestyle with great food and wine, this episode will inspire and entertain. Grab a glass and join us as we explore the incredible beats, vines, and life of Larry Turley.For more information about Turley Wine Cellarsclick the link!Follow Turley Wine on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlifeThank you to our sponsor, The Conaway Fund. The Conaway Fund is a philanthropic initiative under The Prosperity Foundation that allows donors to contribute to a fund that supports various causes such as scholarships, nonprofit organizations, schools, and families facing financial challenges. Donors can recommend where the funds should be directed, providing a flexible way to make a positive impact in communities. The Conaway Fund embodies the spirit of giving and community support, aiming to create a lasting impact through strategic philanthropy.For more information, go to The Conaway Fund and please donate!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Subscribe and give Beats Vines and Life a five-star review on whichever platform you listen to.For insider info from MJ and exclusive content from the show, sign up at blackwineguy.comFollow MJ @blackwineguyFollow Beats Vines and Life @beatsvinesandlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From linens to wines@Ehlersestate @societydelarassi @champagnetelmont #napa #napawines #wine #podcast #radioshow #hostCo hosts : Good ol Boy Harmeet, Good ol Boy Justin, Made Man BobSIPS –Wines Worth Sipping: A Deep Dive into Ehlers EstateJoin us for an exhilarating episode of Sips, Suds, & Smokes as we explore a selection of exquisite wines from Ehlers Estate and beyond! Our hosts, Good ol Boy Bob, Good ol Boy Justin, and Good ol Boy Harm, gather to share their thoughts on a variety of wines, including sparkling champagnes and robust reds, all while engaging in their signature banter.In this episode, we kick off with the Society De La Rassi Neue Brut, a non-alcoholic sparkling wine that surprises our hosts with its vibrant flavors and refreshing profile. We then transition to the Champagne Telmont Reserve de La Terre, where the unique blend of grapes and organic farming practices sparks a lively discussion about its complex tasting notes.As we delve into the Ehlers Estate wines, including their Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and a delightful Portrait Red Blend, our hosts provide insight into the history of the vineyard and the artistry behind each bottle. Expect a range of ratings as they sip and savor these exceptional wines, highlighting the nuances that make each one special.With tales of caviar pairings and spirited debates on flavor profiles, this episode promises to be both entertaining and educational. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just starting your journey, there's something here for everyone! We will be discussing these wines and rating them from 1-5 with 5 being the best:6:00 Society De La Rassi Neue Brut Sparkling Chardonnay 20233 SIPS12:13 Champagne Telmont Reserve De La Terre 20244 SIPS18:46 Ehlers Estate Sylviane Estate Blanc 20234 SIPS27:03 Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc 20225 SIPS30:51 Ehlers Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 20224 SIPS34:10 Ehlers Estate Portrait Red Blend 20225 SIPSinfo@sipssudsandsmokes.comX- @sipssudssmokes IG/FB/Bluesky - @sipssudsandsmokesSips, Suds, & Smokes® is produced by One Tan Hand Productions using the power of beer, whiskey, and golf. Available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeart, and nearly anywhere you can find a podcast.Enjoying that cool Outro Music, it's from Woods & Whitehead – Back RoadsDownload your copy here:https://amzn.to/2XblorcThe easiest way to find this award winning podcast on your phone is ask Alexa, Siri or Google, “Play Podcast , Sips, Suds, & Smokes” Credits:TITLE: Maxwell Swing / FlapperjackPERFORMED BY: Texas GypsiesCOMPOSED BY: Steven R Curry (BMI)PUBLISHED BY: Alliance AudioSparx (BMI)COURTESY OF: AudioSparxTITLE: Back RoadsPERFORMED BY: Woods & WhiteheadCOMPOSED BY: Terry WhiteheadPUBLISHED BY: Terry WhiteheadCOURTESY OF: Terry WhiteheadPost production services : Pro Podcast SolutionsAdvertising sales: Contact us directlyContent hosting services: Talk Media Network, Audioport, Earshot, Radio4All, & PodBeanProducer: Made Man BobExecutive Producer: Good ol Boy MikeWine Tasting, Champagne, Sparkling Wine, Non-Alcoholic Wine, Ehlers Estate, Napa Valley, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Wine Reviews, Wine Ratings, Caviar Pairing, Wine Education, Wine Enthusiasts, Wine Podcast, Wine Culture, Ewers Estate, Wine And Food Pairing, Wine History, Wine Tasting Notes