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We're kicking off a special holiday mini-series focused on the foods we love and the wines that make them shine. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Battle of Mighty Cap Mushrooms, whose Paso Robles mushroom farm has become a destination for chefs and curious cooks alike. Chris pulls back the curtain on how specialty mushrooms are grown, why sourcing matters, and how one simple technique can completely transform their flavor. We also pour a Carignan from Chile and break down why the grape's spicy, vibrant profile is a natural match for mushroom-driven dishes. From cooking tips to holiday meal inspiration, this episode blends the best of wine and food in classic Unfiltered style — equal parts fun, educational, and delicious. Wine Featured on This Episode 2021 Morandé VIGNO Carignan, Maule Valley, Chile
Piper hosts Plaidcast in Person in front of a live audience at Paso Robles Horse Park in Paso Robles, California with Amanda Diefenderfer, Jamie Cheney and James Waldman.Host: Piper Klemm, publisher of The Plaid HorseGuest: Amanda Diefenderfer began with the Paso Robles Horse Park six months before the gates first opened in 2015. She grew up riding hunter/jumpers in California and was thrilled when the opportunity allowed her to bring this passion to her career. Initially, she joined the Paso Park to oversee strategy and marketing of the Foundation's efforts. In 2018 her role grew to include management of all three of the Paso Park's show products - Schooling Shows, the regionally rated Pathway series, and the nationally rated Classic Series. Today, she manages 12 shows per year, is on the USHJA Amateur Rider task force, is the treasurer of the Norcal Hunter Jumper Association Board of Directors, and continues to compete on her six-year-old jumper. Guest: Jamie Cheney is a second-generation horse trainer whose passion for horsemanship is deeply rooted in family and tradition. Jamie runs Boundary Gate alongside her mom, Heidi Cowley, where they focus on developing young horses and riders with care and expertise. She's been coming to Paso Robles since the very beginning, and now shares her love of the sport with her daughters, Addison and Felicity, who both ride. Jamie is committed to keeping equestrian sport viable for future generations—not just through training, but through the broader access and education. She has served on the NorCal Hunter Jumpers Association board, the Tri-Valley Animal Rescue board, and currently serves on the Livermore Unified School District Education Advisory Committee. Whether she's in the ring or in the community, Jamie brings heart, vision, and a deep sense of purpose to everything she does. Guest: James Waldman has been a respected figure in the San Diego equestrian community for more than 40 years. A lifelong trainer, he now shares his expertise as both a judge and clinician. James currently serves as President of the Greater San Diego Hunter Jumper Association and has judged at many prestigious events, including the CPHA Foundation Finals, Pony Finals, the New England Equitation Championships, and Capital Challenge. His extensive experience and dedication to the sport have made him a valued voice in the hunter-jumper world. Subscribe To: The Plaid Horse MagazineRead the Latest Issue of The Plaid Horse MagazineSponsors: Taylor, Harris Insurance Services, Windstar Cruises, and Great American Insurance Group Join us at an upcoming Plaidcast in Person event!
Send us a textTrader Joe's Reserve Meritage Paso Robles 2023A Bordeaux blend with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, and Malbec.All sourced from vineyards in the Paso Robles AVA.It has some oak conditioning with flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and spice on display.A wine with dark fruit, but balanced.A sipping wine that can be used with a meal!Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com
Coming up on The San Luis Obispo Real Estate Podcast — Team Sweasey welcomes a new member agent Stacie Kenny, a seasoned pro with deep roots in SLO County. Stacie opens up about her 20-year journey in real estate, growing up in Paso Robles, and how seven generations of local history shape her understanding of the Central Coast market. You'll hear how she went from property management to mastering negotiation — and why joining Team Sweasey has reignited her passion for helping clients find their dream homes. Plus, insider tips on what makes our market unique, how to stand out in competitive offers, and what every first-time buyer or seller should know. Text your questions to 805-244-1170 or call Team Sweasey at 805-781-3750. Subscribe to Team Sweasey on YouTube @halsweasey for quick tips and full episodes of the SLO County Real Estate Podcast with Hal Sweasey. A production of AGM Podcasts California DRE #01111911
The Hemmings Motor Club Rally: Paso Robles returns for its second edition October 24-26, 2025, bringing enthusiasts from both ends of California together for three days of back road driving, poolside gatherings, and the kind of automotive camaraderie that makes the hobby worthwhile. The car collector car community has a fresh opportunity to celebrate what these machines were built for: driving. It seemed like the perfect opportunity for The Weekly Driver to grab one of its own collector cars and join in on the rally to Paso. The timing of the rally coincides with Paso Robles' most energetic season. Harvest typically runs from late September through November, with October designated as official Harvest Wine Month. October traditionally delivers exceptional weather in this region. Warm days cooling into comfortable evenings perfect for outdoor dining and fireside conversations. More than 100 events occur throughout the month, including specialty tours, winemaker dinners, grape stomps, and live music performances. The harvest atmosphere creates an electric environment throughout wine country. Many California wineries harvest between midnight and early morning because cooler nighttime temperatures help concentrate and preserve fresh fruit aromas and flavors while stabilizing sugar levels. This 24/7 activity gives the region a unique energy during October. Rally participants benefit from this timing. The region's 300-plus days of annual sunshine typically deliver daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s with comfortable evenings, ideal conditions for outdoor dining and sunset vineyard views. This event converges in Paso Robles during harvest season, when the wine country radiates with golden vineyards and the energy of winemakers working around the clock to bring in the year's crop. Rally participants have a choice: depart from either the San Francisco Bay Area or northern Los Angeles County. Both routes cover roughly 220 miles of California's most scenic backroads before arriving at Rally headquarters, the River Lodge Paso Robles. The Northern Route: Bay Area to Paso Robles Bay Area participants gather at Alice's Restaurant in Woodside at 8:30 AM on Friday, October 24. This starting point holds significant weight in California car culture. Built in the early 1900s as a general store for the logging industry, Alice's became a restaurant in the 1950s and was purchased by Alice Taylor in the 1960s. The location sits at the intersection of Skyline Boulevard (Route 35) and Route 84, surrounded by towering redwood trees. Alice's has earned its reputation as the Bay Area's ultimate car hang-out. The wooden building, which remains family-owned, serves as a world-famous stop for motorcyclists, sports car enthusiasts, and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs alike. Kawasaki chose this location to release its landmark Ninja in 1991, and Tesla held test drives here in 2008 with on-site electric charging stations. The drive to Alice's through the Santa Cruz mountains on any given weekend rewards visitors with an impromptu car show. Vintage Porsches parked beside modern EVs, custom choppers next to pristine BMW motorcycles. From Alice's, the northern contingent travels 136 miles through the Santa Cruz mountains, past Moss Landing, and into Monterey before stopping for lunch at Baja Cantina & Grill in Carmel. The restaurant was founded by Patrick and Gina Phinny, whose love for racing and automobiles directly shaped the venue's distinctive character. Patrick Phinny, a longtime car enthusiast, recognized an opportunity after spending time vacationing on the peninsula. Despite the area hosting the world-class Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, he noticed a lack of gathering places specifically catering to car enthusiasts. When he discovered a location that reminded him of a Route 66 gas station, he decided to share his extensive personal automotive memorabilia collection with the public.
Send us a textIn this episode of Wine Camp, we packed our curiosity (and our corkscrew) for a trip to Paso Robles that turned into pure wine country magic. What started as a casual weekend became a swirl of unexpected moments — a spontaneous stop at a tasting room on the town square to kick things off, “breakfast wine”, a surprise cave tour deep beneath a winery, and. Add in a castle visit, beach town wanderings, twinkling lights, and a few classic Wine Camp shenanigans, and you've got one unforgettable Central Coast adventure. Pour a glass and come along for the ride. This one's equal parts vino and adventure!#AustinHopeWines #TroublemakerWine #XLVWine #laventurewine #Tincity #WineTasting #WinePairing #Vino #CaliforniaWineIf you enjoy Wine Camp, please like and follow. Winecamp23@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wine_camp_podcast/Music: Windows Rolled Down by The 126ers, Wes Hutchinson Windows Rolled Down - The 126ers Wes Hutchinson % - Free Music Download For Creators (happysoulmusic.com)
On this episode of “Wine 101,” Keith sits down with Justin Vineyards & Winery Winemaker Scott Shirley. The duo discuss the brand's beginnings in Paso Robles, the premier Bordeaux-style wines they produce, and guest experiences at the JUSTIN Estate, spanning a Michelin star restaurant, five-star inn, and tasting room. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
David McAbee sits down with Jordan Chesnut, executive director of the SLO County Arts Council, to talk about National Arts and Humanities Month. She also shares the data from the 2025 Arts and Culture Economic Impact Report. It's art, passion, and data, all coming together.Then Rosie Boultman has a conversation with Christina Dawson from SLO County UndocuSupport, sharing how they're helping longtime, local undocumented workers and families.And finally, Mira Honeycutt returns with another edition of Wine Country. She chats with Matt Kleefisch of The Ava Hotel in Paso Robles about what drew The Ava to Paso's lush, inviting landscape.
Tonight, we have three red wines and each one cost under $10. As in most of our shows, we know the three wines we will be tasting, but we will blind-taste them. Can we find a wine that we like for under $10? Tonight, our three wines are:2019 Badet Clement & Co. Revelation Cabernet-Merlot red Bordeaux Blend. I purchased this wine from Trader Joe's for $6.99. It has 55% Cabernet and 45% Merlot. Nose displays very intense aromas of dark chocolate, cherries, and blackcurrants. Round mature tannins. Medium body with 13.5% alcohol. Fruit forward with some well-done spice, licorice and leather accents. Long finish. RWS calls it a bulk buy. 2021 Corvelia Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles. This wine was purchased from Trader Joe's for $9.99. The winery calls this wine a dark and fruit-forward, balanced with structure, tannin and a long-lasting finish. Filled with currant, dark cherry, toasted oak, and pipe tobacco notes. Pairs with grilled meats and pasta with hearty sauces.2022 Jose Maria da Fonseca Anticiclone (an-ti-si-KLOH-ni). red wine blend from Portugal. I bought this wine at Costco for $7.99. This wine received a 90 rating from Wine Spectator and it also was named one of the Top 100 Wines of 2024. Wine Spectator says “Balanced and medium-bodied, this fresh red frames flavors of chopped black cherry, blackberry paste, espresso, tobacco, anise and graphite with light, fine tannins.” The Winery is family-owned and has been in business since 1834. We both liked wines #2 and #3. We both preferred the 2021 Corvelia Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles. https://corveliawine.com/ I would caution that you have to like an oaky Cabernet to like this wine, but it was an easy drinking wine.I had the #3 - 2022 Jose Maria da Fonseca Anticiclone wine in a very close second place, and thought this wine was better balanced. Next week, we will taste the Kirkland Cabernet Sauvignon box wine. To make it more interesting, we will also have a bottle of Cabernet and will (blind) taste these two wines to see if we can detect a difference.
Erica Fryburger, GM at Paso Robles Inn shares insights about the partnership with SLO Safe Ride, offering their guests shuttles to and from Vina Robles Amphitheater, and the Inn's fascinating history.
During this episode of ROCKnVINO, hosts Coco and Michelle chat with Jason Bushong, Owner of Bushong Vintage Company located in downtown Paso Robles. Bushong is gaining a reputation as an awesome tasting room to enjoy delectable and interesting varietals in a cool space with a wide collection of vinyl records and an OG Star Wars pinball machine! Jason shares with us how he's been involved and interested in wine since his teens and is living his dream in vibrant downtown Paso Robles. Next time you stop in Paso Robles make sure to check them out! To check out more about Bushong Vintage Company click here! ROCKnVINO is sponsored by American AgCredit.
Send us a textEver had a wine that stops you mid-sip and makes you think, "Wait, what's happening here?" That's exactly what Seek to Find Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc 2023 did to me. Found at Trader Joe's for just $7.99, this isn't your typical budget Sauvignon Blanc – it's a thoughtful departure from the norm that deserves your attention.What makes this wine stand out is its production method. While virtually all value-priced Sauvignon Blancs are fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks, Seek to Find takes a different approach by incorporating oak barrel aging – a technique more commonly found in premium Bordeaux Blanc and high-end California wines. The result? A fascinating flavor profile that delivers familiar notes of lemon, melon, peach, and apple, but with an unexpected layer of exotic spices that only oak aging can impart. It's like getting a hint of Bordeaux, a touch of Loire Valley, and the sunshine of Central Coast all in one affordable glass.Behind this wine is Treana Wines, a division of the respected Hope Family Wines from Paso Robles, who've been crafting quality wines for over 30 years. They also produce a $50 Sauvignon Blanc using similar techniques, which explains the surprising complexity found in this budget bottle. The highest compliment I can give any wine is that it makes you slow down and truly notice what you're drinking – and this one absolutely delivers on that front. For anyone looking to expand their wine knowledge or simply enjoy something different without breaking the bank, this is a must-try. Check out ChiefWineFinder.com for more detailed notes and similar value-priced wine recommendations that'll surprise your palate without emptying your wallet.Check us out at www.cheapwinefinder.comor email us at podcast@cheapwinefinder.com
Join correspondent Tom Wilmer for a cross-country tour of the Justin Vineyards and Winery with Molly Scott and winemaker Scott Shirley.
Jordan and Max are back to answer audience questions, and it's all new L.A. restaurants on the horizon, monk milk, Bub & Grandma's pizza, wines by the glass, Montecito dinners, Disfrutar vs. Somni, how to gain 100 pounds, LA Times vs. NY Times food coverage, the bottled & filtered water thing, a new rating system, all sorts of shrimp cocktail talk, the schelp meter, Max working for Michelin full-time, bagels, Jordan's new coffee dilemma, orange wine, Post Ranch Inn pricing, Paso Robles, Bavel no longer respects the neck, and rest in peace Dan Tana.
Today's top stories:Suspected driver in DUI crash arrested, to appear in court Friday Rapper Blueface's brother claims to be victim in domestic violence case in Bakersfield Man accused of stabbing another man pleads not guilty to first degree murder charge Paso Robles man found dead in Kern County Bakersfield Police review use of force policy in town hall meeting Thursday BPAL hometown heroes honors Salty's BBQ owner, Jeff Salters Disabled BPD officer gets mortage-free home Talks get heated discussing health of Americans in hearing with HHS secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Lawmakers working to avoid another potential government shutdownFor more local news, visit KGET.com.Stream local news for free on KGET+. Visit KGET.com/plus for more information.
Enotoursim has been a staple in the tourism trade. One of my favorite podcast was with XXX Duput, the woman who delivered the wines from Napa to Steven Spurrier in Paris for the Judgement In Paris. She was the leading Enotourist company in America. As time would have it, Enotourism had seen its days, slumping a bit for the past decade...until now. Though wine sales are off and the wine industry is scurrying to define the cause of this slump, enotourism could save the day. Meet Bill Callejas, he is grassroots and has created an enotourism company from sheer passion. Bill Callejas didn't just stumble into wine tourism—he reverse-engineered it from the ground up, blending the precision of his production background with a storyteller's flair and an explorer's curiosity. You'll be hard pressed to find a more nuanced perspective on wine travel, or a more convincing case for ditching those cookie-cutter tours. In this episode, you'll discover the real difference between “just another wine trip” and a thoughtfully crafted, immersive journey that brings you shoulder-to-shoulder with winemakers, artisans, and even the family matriarch preparing your meal. Bill reveals how he and his partners built World Wine Destinations around the idea that travel and wine are each a world unto themselves—each deserving of respect, intention, and creative design. Listeners will learn how each trip is structured like a multi-day live show, full of distinct characters, rising action, and the slow burn of discovery that comes from tasting with local experts in quiet, off-the-map villages. Expect revelations on why genuine wine travel can't—and shouldn't—be “dumbed down,” why asking winemakers about their intention often leads to the best stories, and how wine acts as a cultural glue, binding food, land, history, and people in an experience you can literally taste. Whether it's the ancient amphorae of Greece, the wild terroir of Argentina, or the unexpected intimacy of Paso Robles, you'll come away with an appreciation for how travel, when done right, changes not just what's in your glass, but who you are as a drinker and a global citizen. Buckle up—one glass at a time, you'll learn how the story of wine is best lived, not just told. ✅ Think you know wine travel? Think again. ✅ Discover how storytelling and immersive experiences are redefining wine tourism. ✅ On this episode of Wine Talks, host Paul Kalemkiarian sits down with Bill Callejas of World Wine Destinations to reveal why their unique approach skips the cookie-cutter tours and takes you straight into the heart—and the culture—of the world's top wine regions. ✅ If you thought wine was just about tasting, you haven't heard the stories that bring each glass to life. Hit play and get ready to plan your next adventure (and maybe reimagine what a wine trip can be)! World Wine Destinations Website: https://www.worldwinedestinations.com Corner Wines (Plano, Texas) Website: https://www.cornerwines.com #winepodcast #winetourism #winetravel #wineculture #worldwinedestinations #BillCallejas #PaulKalemkiarian #winestories #winemakers #winetasting #culturalexperiences #wineregions #wineeducation #foodandwine #winehistory #immersivetravel #wineindustry #PasoRobles #winetrips #oenotourism
Wine needs a fresh face. Well, that is if you ask the pundits in the industry. I am not sure I agree. Certainly, any industry needs to keep up with the times, I suppose marketing ideas and packaging ideas would follow. I am not sure I even agree with that... however, one thing I do believe is bringing a contemporary viewpoint to the table is beneficial. Meet a contemporary viewpoint in Jane Dunkley of Bezel Vineyards. eflecting on my conversation with Jane Dunkley of Bezel Vineyards for the latest episode of Wine Talks, I'm left both energized and encouraged about where the wine industry is headed—and what truly matters in today's wine world. Our podcast's mission has always been to tell the real stories of wine, far beyond tasting notes and ratings. So, sitting down (virtually, at least) with Jane, an Australian-born winemaker who has worked on both sides of the world and now crafts wines for the Cakebread family's new Bezel brand in Paso Robles, was exactly the kind of exchange I live for. Jane's journey started far south of Perth, in Western Australia, on a beef cattle ranch—a background that immediately resonated with me. We swapped stories about the one-of-a-kind “smell” of cattle yards; a scent that, as Jane wryly put it, no amount of showers can really erase. It set her on the path to winemaking: the agricultural connection without the lingering aroma of livestock. That personal connection to the land gave her an appreciation—almost an obligation—to bring authenticity into her role as a winemaker. That idea of authenticity kept surfacing. Jane made it clear: if you're just coming into wine “because you couldn't think of any other way to spend your money,” the market sees through it. The consumer is craving stories and purpose—an ethos to connect with, not just a pretty label or Instagram-ready tasting room. Her advice? If you're ready to make this your life, with good intentions and a real story, there's room for you. I couldn't agree more. We explored what Paso Robles has become—a place that's evolved from cowboy hats and thrift stores to French restaurants and billion-dollar wine acquisitions (yes, I'm still amazed by the DAOU story). Yet, amidst the changing face of Paso, Jane finds the same rural, collaborative spirit that was there when she arrived. I can vouch for it myself; Paso still feels real and welcoming, even if, like me, you eventually learn you're a much better wine storyteller than farmer. It was refreshing to hear Jane champion the idea that innovation in wine isn't about flash—wines in cans, weird flavors, or marketing gimmicks—but about a “unique voice,” expressed sincerely in the glass. We tasted her Bezel Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet, and I was genuinely impressed. The Sauvignon Blanc brought a Southern Hemisphere intensity but was rooted in Paso—minerality and all. The Cabernet, meanwhile, struck that elusive balance between structure and approachability at a $30 price point. As a guy who's sold millions of bottles in that sweet spot, I know how hard that is to get right. At its heart, this episode underlined why I started Wine Talks: to share the stories, the struggles, and the triumphs of people like Jane Dunkley. Wine is about connection—between people, land, science, art, and most of all, experience. The future belongs to those willing to show what they stand for and bring their whole story to the table. And as long as there are voices like Jane's willing to do that, I'll keep telling these stories. Cheers to authenticity—and to the next great bottle. Bezel Vineyards (Jane Dunkley's current winemaking project, associated with Cakebread Cellars) https://bezelwines.com Cakebread Cellars (Iconic Napa Valley winery, parent company for Bezel) https://cakebread.com Bonny Doon Vineyard (Winery owned by Randall Grahm, mentioned regarding Jane's past experience) https://www.bonnydoonvineyard.com Gallo (E. & J. Gallo Winery) (Large wine company Jane worked with in California) https://www.gallo.com The Language of Yes (Project with Randall Grahm that Jane contributed to) https://www.thelanguageofyeswine.com Dow (DAOU Vineyards & Winery) (Paso Robles winery referenced in industry context) https://daouvineyards.com Austin Hope (Hope Family Wines) (Mentioned in relation to Paso Robles Cabernet benchmarks) https://hopefamilywines.com Lewin Estate (Leeuwin Estate) (Margaret River, Australia; discussed in early career context) https://leeuwinestate.com.au #WineTalks #Podcast #JaneDunkley #PaulKalemkiarian #BezelVineyards #CakebreadCellars #PasoRobles #Winemaking #WineIndustry #WineStories #MargaretRiver #AustralianWine #FemaleWinemaker #VineyardLife #WineTasting #WineInnovation #WineCommunity #WineAuthenticity #SauvignonBlanc #CabernetSauvignon
In this episode, we welcome Hilary Graves, Vineyard and Grower Relations Manager at Booker Wines, to discuss how she successfully transitioned an Organic vineyard to regenerative organic certification. With over 20 years of field experience on California's Central Coast, Hilary brings practical strategies and candid stories about what it really takes to move beyond standard organic practices. Hilary explains the core pillars of regenerative organic certification — soil health, social fairness, and animal welfare — and why she and the team at Booker Wines chose to pursue this path. She walks listeners through how integrating multi-species cover crops, implementing low-till and no-till practices, and bringing in grazing livestock have helped improve soil structure, increase water retention, and reduce reliance on inputs. Fritz and Hilary also dig into the challenges of vineyard mechanization on steep terrain, minimizing tractor passes, and creative pest control strategies, including releasing predatory lacewings by drone to combat leafhoppers. Whether you're already farming organically or just exploring what's next, this episode offers tangible examples of how even small changes can drive long-term benefits for your soil, your business, and the environment. In this episode, you will hear: The difference between organic and regenerative organic certification How to build a diverse cover crop blend (and why 15 species might be better than five) Using a Yeomans plow to increase water infiltration without disturbing soil structure Grazing sheep for cover crop termination in a mutually beneficial partnership Why releasing beneficial insects by drone can outpace traditional sprays for pest control 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.
On this episode of the ReGen Brands Podcast, we're joined by Jason Haas – Partner and General Manager at Tablas Creek Vineyard. Tablas Creek is located in Paso Robles, California, is one of the pioneering wineries in the U.S. for regenerative organic farming, and was the first vineyard to become Regenerative Organic Certified®. Jason shares the incredible origin story of Tablas Creek, born from a partnership between his father and the Perrin family of France. We explore how they brought Rhône varietals to California and why they started a grapevine nursery to supply their own vineyard and the broader wine community here in the US. We dive into the challenges and opportunities of regenerative viticulture – from managing tillage, to animal integration, to water retention. Jason also unpacks the complexity of managing 270 acres while bottling 29 different wines. Plus, he shares insights on the economics of DTC versus wholesale channels, and how they're balancing high regenerative and organic standards with industry-wide transition support. If you're curious about how regenerative farming shows up in your favorite glass of vino – and what it takes to make that possible – this episode is for you. Episode Highlights:
Legacy in the wine trade is not guaranteed. Not every child wants to take on the wine trade. I have many stories of famed children of iconic brands setting out to carve their own path to only lnad back in this passionate business. Jason Haas of Tablas Creek came around a bit quicker. He saw what an honest glass of wine represents and is now the second generation owner of Tablas Creek. Jason Haas may be the only guest who can increase the world's acreage of a grape by 40% simply by planting half an acre. If that got your attention, prepare for a conversation filled with surprising truths about winemaking in Paso Robles, the deep roots of Tablas Creek, and the evolving landscape of California's wine industry. You'll learn how a partnership between the American Haas family and the French Perrins of Château de Beaucastel launched an early French “transplant” with a vision for Mediterranean grapes in California—long before it was fashionable. Jason offers an insider's perspective on why Paso Robles' sub-appellations are more expressive than those in Napa and how scientific mapping by UC Davis and Cal Poly replaced politics with terroir. You'll get an engrossing look at how this once rural, cowboy town is still shaped more by local families than by corporate interests, and why that matters for the wines—and the people—who make them. Jason also reveals how trends, from big brand Cabs chasing the Napa style to small-batch Rhône blends with true regional character, shape what's in your glass. If you've ever wondered what innovation actually means in wine—outside of quirky bottles and cans—Jason gives you a primer on farming organically and regeneratively, introducing grapes the world has nearly forgotten, and packaging that shrinks the industry's carbon footprint. You'll hear the untold story of California's Roan Ranger movement that started in a little Berkeley restaurant, and why camaraderie and shared purpose make Paso's wine community unique. Along the way, you'll discover why the best part of a Paso wine club might be the opportunity to bowl against your neighboring vintners' Little League teams—no cowboy hat required. Tablas Creek (the main winery discussed, Jason Haas is proprietor) Website: https://www.tablascreek.com Château de Beaucastel (French winery, partners with Tablas Creek founders) Website: https://www.beaucastel.com Opus One (Napa Valley winery referenced) Website: https://www.opusonewinery.com Dominus Estate (another Napa Valley winery referenced) Website: https://www.dominusestate.com Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance (regional wine association mentioned) Website: https://pasowine.com Edmunds St. John (Steve Edmunds mentioned as an original Rhone Ranger) Website: http://www.edmundsstjohn.com Brooks Winery (Janie Hook referenced as part of a wine collective) Website: https://www.brookswine.com Vineyard Brands (Import company founded by Robert Haas, Jason's father) Website: https://www.vineyardbrands.com Ancient Peaks Winery (mentioned as owned by a former well digger) Website: https://www.ancientpeaks.com Austin Hope (Paso Robles winery/brand discussed) Website: https://hfwines.com DAOU Vineyards (Paso Robles producer mentioned) Website: https://daouvineyards.com JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery (Paso producer mentioned) Website: https://www.justinwine.com J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines (Paso Robles winery mentioned) Website: https://www.jlohr.com Wine of the Month Club (Paul Kalemkiarian's business) Website: https://www.wineofthemonthclub.com Lalime's Restaurant (Berkeley restaurant referenced as a meeting point; may now be closed but for history: ) Website (legacy/reference): https://www.lalimes.com #winepodcast #WineTalks #PaulKalemkiarian #JasonHaas #TablasCreek #PasoRobles #RhoneVarietals #winemaking #wineindustry #winenight #vineyardlife #CaliforniaWine #wineclub #d2cwine #winestories #wineducation #sustainablewine #wineinnovation #tastingroom #winecommunity
Hometown Radio 07/30/25 3p: A preview of the Paso Robles Downtown Wine Vibe
In this episode of SuperPsyched, host Dr. Adam Dorsay interviews Austin Hope, the president and winemaker at Hope Family Wines in Paso Robles, California. They discuss the intricacies of winemaking, the history and unique terroir of Paso Robles, and the personal journey and passions that drive Austin's success. Austin shares insights into the wine community, the challenges he faced, and his commitment to quality and community. The conversation highlights the meaningful aspects of wine, from its production to its role in bringing people together, and underscores the importance of love and open-mindedness in both life and winemaking.00:00 Introduction to SuperPsyched00:28 The Mystique of Wine01:00 Interview with Austin Hope03:37 Austin's Journey into Winemaking05:36 Challenges and Triumphs07:03 Lessons from Mentors14:50 The Joys of Winemaking22:34 Family and Legacy26:41 Family Influence in Winemaking27:35 Promoting Paso Robles29:34 Terroir and Microclimates35:41 Community and Collaboration39:22 Innovative Wine Marketing43:08 The Importance of Overdelivering48:01 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsHelpful Links:Hope Family WinesAustin Hope WikiDr. Rachel Herz's research cited from the excellent book Why You Eat What You Eat https://a.co/d/aXvmRB9
Send us a textComedian Mike Menendez joins us to talk about his hilarious animated short Pollo Punch, inspired by chicken fighting and Miami madness. We sip a Roussanne from Paso Robles (but don't expect Eddie to name it—he's holding a grudge because the winery stole his Cuban dinner idea). We dive into Mike's creative process, the wild world of animation, and whether chickens deserve their own action movies. Wine, shade, and comedy collide in this one.Support the showTheme music by " The Zetas" produced by Ethan Carlson and Omar Tavarez
In an oversupplied market with rising costs, being a winegrape grower is probably the hardest it has ever been. Natalie Collins, President of the California Association of Winegrape Growers, breaks down the cost of winegrape growing in CA, the challenges in the marketplace, and the policy dynamics in the US, CA, and EU that continue to exacerbate the challenges for CA's winegrape growers. Detailed Show Notes: CA Winegrape Growers - based in Sacramento, lobbies at the state and federal levelCA has ~5,900 winegrape growers and 550k planted acresKey cost drivers of winegrape growing#1 labor, ~45-50% of budget (30-45% CA interior, 45-65% CA coast); doubled in the last 10 years, driven by:High min wage ($16.50; most pay $18-30/hr) → increases take entire pay curve up, not just bottom2016 labor law change reducing hours before overtime pay → reduced farmworker take-home pay (OR provides an overtime tax credit to employers)#2 regulatory compliance (water, air, worker health, safety), ~10% budgetCal State SLO study on lettuce growers - compliance costs ~$1,600/acre (1,366% increase since 2006, 637% since 2022)#3 land - CA has some of the highest land prices in the US #4 crop protection/fertility toolsFarming costs ~$4k/acre Central Valley, $6-8k/acre Paso Robles, $8-10k/acre Sonoma, ~$10-17k/acre NapaGrape pricing not rising w/ input costs - Central Valley ~$500-600/ton, Central Coast ~$1-2k/tonBulk wine from Chile is cheap, and the US can't compete on priceThe annual CA Winegrape Crush Report shows pricing for all varieties by districtNo US federal support vs EUEU subsidizes at every level (growing, marketing, production)>e2B/year in direct and local support, enabling cheap wine productionCrisis distillation - buy surplus wine to convert to alcohol (e.g., hand sanitizer)Vineyard removal and vineyard planting subsidiesAggressive marketing support (France investing $5B to support wine exports to the US w/ new tariffs)US wines can have up to 25% foreign wine blended in and be labeled as US wine2023-2024 - CA left ~300k tons/year on the vines; 2025 ~50% of vineyards don't have a contract for the 2025 harvest; industry calling for another 50k acres to be removed (60k removed since 2022); all regions pulling out or mothballing/minimally farming vinesTariff impacts (May 2025)- input costs increase, but can be positive for CA winegrape growers2019 tariffs saw domestic wine increase its share by 10% vs EU winesCanada is actively removing US wines from shelves in retaliation; the US exports 10% of its wines, 40% to CanadaDeportations - creating fear, people are afraid to leave their homes for fear of their families getting separatedSeasonal labor is not big, 90% vineyards are mechanically harvested; H2A temporary workers (mostly from Mexico, all-in cost ~$30/hr, often more productive, cannot be paid more than domestic workers)Economic impact of CA wine - 422k CA employees / 1.1M across US, $73B CA economic impact / $175B/year USAll agriculture is struggling in CA, replacement crops for grapes not easy (some almonds, pistachios, cherries); costs ~$30-70k/acre to plant a vineyardDuty Drawback - a federal tax refund program meant to encourage exportsIf a winery exports wines, then imports them back, it gets 99% of import fees (including the Federal Excise Tax of $1.07/gallon) refundedIf importing ~$3/gallon bulk wine, can save ~30%Mostly used by the top 5 wine companies2024 - 38M gallons bulk imported (70M in 2022) vs ~70M gallons left on the vine in 2023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Two women with a love of wine, the Earth, and chemistry are at the heart of our show today. Their story is a blend of Native American and Spanish culture, but it is rooted in a love of family and belief in dreams. They are Tara Gomez and Mireia Taribó of Camins2Dreams Winery in Lompoc, California.These winemaking wives share their journey from different continents to one shared dream. Tara is the first Native American woman winemaker, and Mireia is a Catalan chemist-turned-vintner. Wine brought them together, meeting as interns at J. Lohr in Paso Robles, to launching a winery that honors underrepresented grapes, tribal traditions, organic farming, and the LGBTQIA2S+ community. And, they've been known to roller skate in their Lompoc winery.We know you'll love getting to know Tara and Mireia, so pop the cork, pour a glass and enjoy hearing their story.
Correspondent Tom Wilmer reports from the Bellasera Hotel and onsite Enoteca restaurant where he visits with GM Benny Cendali and master-chef Rachael Zollo.
Summer is going fast! We slow down on this episode to talk about the first six months of Rick Roberti's presidency. Rick shares about his experiences and issues discussed at CCA's Feeder Meeting in May and NCBA's Summer Business meeting a few weeks ago in San Diego. He also provides an update on the gray wolf conflict and the concerns of New World screwworm getting closer to the U.S. Finally, hear why you need to be part of our Midyear Meeting and Cattle-PAC fundraiser happening August 14-15 in Paso Robles. Register, purchase tickets and get all the details at https://calcattlemen.org/cattlepac25.Text us your comments, feedback and episode ideas!
The Jim Rome Show HR 2 - 6/2/25 LA Chargers LB Daiyan Henley joins the show after an outstanding sophomore season, Alvin makes his PrizePicks and Silk Brah joins from wine country in Paso Robles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices