POPULARITY
Categories
Suggest Guests For Our Podcast: https://forms.gle/ytt6a9jxe8YwzsGD6 Deepak Acharya is a wine enthusiast and the Managing Director and Founder of Drinkers Nepal. In this podcast, he breaks down the world of wine from a Nepalese perspective, discussing the Nepal wine industry, changing drinking culture, wine appreciation, and how consumers can better understand what they are drinking. The conversation explores everything from the history of wine and wine culture in Nepal to the complete wine making process. Deepak explains red wine, white wine, French wine, wine origins, wine bottle labels, and how different types of wine are produced and consumed. He also discusses whether expensive wine is really better, what determines wine quality, and how beginners can choose a good wine without simply looking at the price. Deepak also explains how to read a wine bottle and understand wine labels, how to store wine at home, when wine can expire, and the differences between consuming red wine and white wine. He shares wine recommendations and insights into how Drinkers Nepal was established and developed as a platform around drinking culture and education. This episode is a detailed introduction to wine for beginners as well as anyone interested in wine in Nepal, the Nepal wine industry, wine history, wine storage, wine recommendations, wine making, red wine vs white wine, and the evolving wine culture in Nepal. GET CONNECTED WITH Deepak Acharya: LinkedIn - https://np.linkedin.com/in/deepak-acharya Drinkers Nepal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thedrinkersnepal/?hl=en LinkedIn - https://np.linkedin.com/company/the-drinkers-nepal
Send us Fan MailJoining me on today's episode of the English Wine Diaries are Dominic Travers and Georgie Stedman from Abingworth Vineyard, a boutique, family-run producer in West Sussex. Dominic began his career in English wine with an internship at Nyetimber during the 2015 vintage but his passion for viticulture began much earlier having spent time in South Africa as a child visiting family and attending carol concerts at Vergelegen vineyard. He has worked at various UK vineyards, using a range of biodynamic, organic, and conventional practices and joined the team at Abingworth in 2024 as Head of Viticulture & Winemaking. Georgie is one of four Stedman sisters, who together with their parents, Chris and Caroline, founded Abingworth Vineyard at Champion Farm – an historic plot in Thakeham, which holds traces of Roman roads, Tudor secrets, famous poets, and medieval disputes.With a background in fashion and creative writing, Georgie leads product innovation and customer experience, bringing her innovative ideas to prototyping, packaging, social media, and branding.Abingworth might be one of the youngest producers in English wine but the team are already causing a stir and recently picked up the trophy for Best Newcomer at the 2026 WineGB Awards. Follow them on Instagram @abingworthvineyard and visit abingworthvineyard.com. Thanks to English Wine Diaries series sponsor Rankin Bros & Sons — trusted suppliers of corks, closures, and packaging solutions to the UK wine industry since 1774. To learn more about how Rankin is supporting the future of British wine, visit rankincork.co.uk. Thanks for listening to The English Wine Diaries. If you enjoyed the podcast then please leave a rating or review, it helps boost our ratings and makes it easier for other people to find us. To find out who will be joining me next on the English Wine Diaries, follow @theenglishwinediaries on Instagram and for more regular English wine news and reviews, sign up to our newsletter at englishwinediaries.com.
Fluent Fiction - Italian: Tradition vs. Modernity: The Wine Keeper's Passionate Stand Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-09-02-22-34-01-it Story Transcript:It: Tra le colline soleggiate della Toscana, si trovava una comunità vinicola circondata da un grande cancello antico.En: Among the sunny hills of Toscana, there was a wine community surrounded by a large ancient gate.It: Le vigne si estendevano a perdita d'occhio, come onde verdi ondeggianti nel caldo abbraccio dell'estate tardiva.En: The vineyards stretched as far as the eye could see, like green waves undulating in the warm embrace of late summer.It: Al centro di questo paesaggio mozzafiato, c'era una vecchia casa colonica dalle mura di pietra, dove viveva e lavorava Alessandro, un appassionato produttore di vino.En: At the center of this breathtaking landscape, there was an old farmhouse with stone walls, where Alessandro, a passionate wine producer, lived and worked.It: Alessandro era un uomo con una missione.En: Alessandro was a man with a mission.It: Voleva raccogliere l'uva e produrre il vino come aveva fatto la sua famiglia per generazioni.En: He wanted to harvest the grapes and produce wine as his family had done for generations.It: Ogni giorno, osservava con orgoglio le sue viti, coltivate con cura e amore.En: Every day, he proudly observed his vines, cultivated with care and love.It: Ma non tutti nel villaggio condividevano la sua visione.En: But not everyone in the village shared his vision.It: La comunità vinicola era divisa tra tradizione e modernità.En: The wine community was divided between tradition and modernity.It: La moglie di Alessandro, Livia, e il suo amico Marco erano nel consiglio, e spesso parlavano con entusiasmo delle nuove tecnologie che avrebbero reso la produzione di vino più veloce e più semplice.En: Alessandro's wife, Livia, and his friend Marco were on the council and often spoke enthusiastically about new technologies that would make wine production faster and easier.It: "Dovremmo usare le macchine moderne," diceva Marco.En: "We should use modern machines," Marco would say.It: "Risparmieremo tempo e fatica."En: "We'll save time and effort."It: Livia sosteneva l'idea di Marco, sperando di migliorare l'efficienza e il rendimento.En: Livia supported Marco's idea, hoping to improve efficiency and yield.It: Ma Alessandro era irremovibile.En: But Alessandro was unwavering.It: "Il vino è un'arte, non una produzione industriale," rispondeva, con gli occhi che brillavano di passione.En: "Wine is an art, not an industrial production," he replied, his eyes shining with passion.It: "Si fa con il cuore, non con le macchine."En: "It is made with the heart, not with machines."It: L'atmosfera nel consiglio diventò tesa.En: The atmosphere in the council became tense.It: Livia e Marco cercarono di convincere Alessandro a cambiare idea.En: Livia and Marco tried to persuade Alessandro to change his mind.It: Tuttavia, lui restava fermo.En: However, he stood firm.It: Sentiva che abbandonare i metodi tradizionali significava tradire la sua famiglia, il loro lavoro e i ricordi.En: He felt that abandoning traditional methods meant betraying his family, their work, and their memories.It: Un giorno, Alessandro convocò il consiglio nella sua vigna.En: One day, Alessandro called the council to his vineyard.It: Li guidò tra i filari di uva matura, spiegando con calma ma determinazione il significato di ogni passo che aveva imparato dai suoi avi.En: He led them among the rows of ripe grapes, explaining calmly yet determinedly the meaning of each step he had learned from his ancestors.It: Parlava di cura e pazienza, di come i sapori intricati si sviluppassero con tempo e amore.En: He spoke of care and patience, of how intricate flavors developed with time and love.It: "Il nostro vino è conosciuto per il suo sapore unico," disse.En: "Our wine is known for its unique flavor," he said.It: "Non possiamo perdere ciò che lo rende speciale."En: "We cannot lose what makes it special."It: Dopo il suo discorso, Livia e Marco rimasero in silenzio per un momento.En: After his speech, Livia and Marco remained silent for a moment.It: La dedizione di Alessandro era palpabile.En: Alessandro's dedication was palpable.It: Con il cuore aperto dalla sincerità e dalla passione di Alessandro, decisero di sostenere il suo sogno.En: With hearts opened by his sincerity and passion, they decided to support his dream.It: Quando la vendemmia finì, il magico aroma del mosto che fermentava riempì l'aria.En: When the harvest ended, the magical aroma of fermenting must filled the air.It: Livia e Marco unirono le forze ad Alessandro, lavorando insieme per completare la produzione del vino come antichi artisti.En: Livia and Marco joined forces with Alessandro, working together to complete the wine production like ancient artists.It: Il raccolto fu un successo.En: The harvest was a success.It: Le bottiglie portarono il sapore autentico della tradizione della loro terra.En: The bottles carried the authentic taste of their land's tradition.It: In quel momento, Alessandro comprese che rimanere fedele a sé stesso era la sua più grande forza.En: In that moment, Alessandro realized that staying true to himself was his greatest strength.It: Livia e Marco iniziarono ad apprezzare il valore del rispetto per il passato.En: Livia and Marco began to appreciate the value of respecting the past.It: Nella calda luce del tramonto toscano, brindarono insieme, certi che il rispetto della tradizione fosse parte del loro futuro.En: In the warm light of the Tuscan sunset, they toasted together, certain that respect for tradition was part of their future.It: E così, tra le colline e le vigne della Toscana, la storia di Alessandro e del suo vino continuò, unendo passato e presente con forza rinnovata e spirito comune.En: And so, among the hills and vineyards of Toscana, the story of Alessandro and his wine continued, uniting past and present with renewed strength and shared spirit. Vocabulary Words:the farmhouse: la casa colonicathe vineyards: le vignethe gate: il cancellobreathtaking: mozzafiatothe mission: la missionethe grape: l'uvathe vines: le vitito cultivate: coltivarethe harvest: la vendemmiathe yield: il rendimentounwavering: irremovibilethe machine: la macchinathe council: il consiglioto persuade: convincerethe vineyard: la vignaripe: maturathe ancestor: l'avointricate: intricatito ferment: fermentarethe must: il mostothe aroma: l'aromaauthentic: autenticothe artist: l'artistafaithful: fedelethe sunset: il tramontothe strength: la forzato betray: tradirethe air: l'ariathe step: il passothe dedication: la dedizione
WINE SOUNDTRACK USAAbsolution Cellars — Where Wine Becomes a Portrait of PlaceWhat happens when you leave behind a successful career, move across the country with no real plan, and discover that one barrel of wine could change everything?For Dirk Neumann, that unlikely beginning became Absolution Cellars.In this episode of Wine Soundtrack USA, host Allison Levine sits down with Dirk Neumann, owner, winemaker, and self-described J.O.A.T. of Absolution Cellars, to uncover the remarkable story behind a boutique Central Coast winery built on curiosity, craftsmanship, artistic expression, and a willingness to do things differently.Dirk didn't set out to become a winemaker.He came to California from Florida, initially drawn by the Central Coast itself—the landscapes, the people, the food, the climate, and, naturally, the wine. What was supposed to be a future retirement destination became home. Then, in 2014, a single barrel of wine turned a hobby into an obsession.And eventually, into a winery.Today, Absolution Cellars produces around 1,500 cases a year, creating limited-production wines from carefully selected vineyards throughout California's Central Coast. More than 20 varieties and wines can emerge from the cellar, each one intended to tell its own story.But this is not simply an episode about wine.It is about place, instinct, reinvention, and the courage to follow something before you know exactly where it will lead.Dirk's philosophy is refreshingly simple: let the grapes, vineyard, and vintage speak.His wines combine an Old World sensibility with the freedom and creativity of California. Hand-sorted grapes, whole-cluster inclusion, open-top fermentation, long aging in neutral barrels, and an uncompromising attention to detail all contribute to wines that are expressive rather than manufactured. And then there is the art.Every bottle carries licensed artwork by artist Aja Trier of Sagittarius Gallery, with Dirk connecting the visual language of each piece to the wine inside. The result is something that feels less like a conventional wine label and more like a meeting point between wine, art, place, and personality.But perhaps the most compelling part of Absolution Cellars is that the story doesn't stop with Dirk.There is a family and a team behind the bottles—from Tania, whose work ranges from managing the tasting room to helping during harvest, to Vie, Dirk and Tania's youngest child, who has returned to San Luis Obispo County to learn winemaking directly from Dirk.It is a story about a business becoming a family legacy.It is also a reminder that some of the most interesting wines aren't born from a master plan. Sometimes they begin with a move, a bottle, a barrel, a conversation—or simply the decision to take a chance.Join Allison Levine for an intimate conversation with Dirk Neumann and discover what happens when a winemaker chooses not to force the wine, but instead gives it the freedom to become itself.Wine Soundtrack USA is where the people behind the bottle take center stage.Produced by Claudio Latagliata, the series looks beyond tasting notes and vineyard statistics to find the human stories, personalities, passions, and unexpected journeys that make American wine worth listening to.Because sometimes, before you taste the wine, you need to hear the story.Listen to Absolution Cellars with Dirk Neumann on Wine Soundtrack USA.AUTHENTIC. BOUTIQUE. ARTISTIC. UNIQUE.
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Terry Culton, Director of Winemaking & Vineyards, Willamette Valley Vineyards, Oregon, defining the term “Wine Barrels”. Learn more by visiting www.wvv.com.
Sparkling wine has been on the rise for quite sometime and Willamette Valley has made a huge name for itself with bubbles. Terry Culton is Director of Winemaking and Vineyards at Willamette Valley Vineyards bringing almost three decades of experience from the West Coast Pinot Trail. I caught up with Terry to get an idea [...]
Marchelle Wines founder Greg La Follette is back on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell. Greg has been on the show before, the last time was this episode of Oct. 25, 2024, but this is his first time with Daedalus hosting. They begin by tasting a Vermentino that Greg La Follette has produced. His label, Marchelle Wines, has just opened a new tasting room in Healdsburg. It is a big step for a small winery. They only produce 1100 cases per year and Greg things that direct-to-consumers sales are best for small wineries like his. Dan remembers touring a vineyard to inspect some Riesling and they stumbled upon a beautiful Vermentino vineyard. So Greg and Dan had to get some to make. Daedalus describes it having a light effervescence, a kiss or honeydew melon, but bone dry. Dan tastes Golden Delicious apples on the nose but with a note of lemon at the end and a bit of spice. This is a Bahl Fratty Vermentino. Dan has some space for his wines in Greg’s new tasting room. This is Greg’s 70th harvest. He could get three harvests in a calendar year on all continents. An Indirect Path to Winemaking Greg La Follette decided he wanted to be a winemaker by the time he ws 17 years old. He liked the people in the vineyards as well as the science. Then he lived in the San Fernando Valley in LA, for a while. He worked as the ship’s piper on the Queen Mary, playing bagpipes. After degrees in biology and chemistry he worked in early Aids research, then transfered into the UC Davis Enology department. He taught labs there, as a staffer and a grad student. His thesis was on how Burgundian winemaking techniques affect mouth feel. Greg is grateful for the coverage that Dan has given him over the years, a wine writer. He remembers working with André Tchelistcheff, the legendary winemaker. He says the stories that people tell do not begin to convey what a force he was. They taste a Colombard that Greg has made, in a dry style. His friend brought him to see some Colombard vines that had been planted in 1902. The vines needed a lot of work. At first he used it for Single Thread for their house wine. Then when Covid hit the demand dropped and he got control of the stock. That became the first wine under the Marchelle label, which is a fusion of the names of his wife and his friend’s wife. They opened the tasting room a couple of weeks ago. Dan’s Riesling and Vermentino are there, along with Greg’s wines for Marchelle Wines. Dan says that these wines are as good as anything he has ever done.
On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, we're diving deep into the rhythms of Gen X culture, Italian style, and the art of coastal winemaking with Elia Pellegrini, fourth-generation owner and vintner at Aia Vecchia—an estate rooted in the heart of Tuscany's vibrant wine scene. Raised among vineyards and steeped in classic traditions, Elia brings a fresh, modern vision to his family's legacy, where old-world philosophy meets the pulse of contemporary wine, food, and lifestyle.From memories of childhood football dreams and Sunday lunches heavy with wild boar and fresh pasta, to the complexities of selling Italian authenticity and navigating global wine markets, Elia's story is a celebration of legacy, evolution, and living la dolce vita. We dive into the nuances of Tuscan cuisine, the secrets behind Bolgheri's Bordeaux-inspired wines, and why Italy's next generation—whether on the vineyard or the soccer field—is all about balancing tradition, innovation, and a little bit of rock ‘n' roll swagger. Pour a glass, settle in, and get ready for a conversation that pairs perfectly with whatever's on your plate.For more information about Aia Vecchia Winer click the link!Follow Aia Vechhia on IG!____________________________________________________________Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers! Grenache Fest is BACK!!! Grenache Fest is coming to Waitsburg, Washington, bringing with it a focused, celebratory spotlight on one of the world's most important and expressive grapes. This year, we will start with a blind tasting seminar hosted by MJ Towler, Chauncey Arkfeld, and Michael Alberty, followed by smaller breakout sessions across town.Early Bird Ticket Sales are Live!Don't miss the premier event for winery direct-to-consumer sales and marketing—early-bird pricing for the DTC Wine Symposium in Monterey, CA, January 19-21, 2027 is now in effect until Labor Day. This year's event features an incredible lineup of visionary keynote speakers including André Huston Mack, Jermaine Stone, and Vinny Warren. Get ready to help your brand differentiate and build lasting consumer loyalty. In addition to our game-changing educational sessions and bootcamps, we are thrilled to introduce a brand-new golf tournament perfect for networking on the greens and our Cocktail party at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Register today by visiting: https://dtcwinesymposium.regfox.comSubscribe 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 @beatsvinesandlifeFollow Totally Biased Wine Reviews on IGSign up for Totally Biased Wine ReviewsThank you to our sponsor, GrenacheFest. The Third Grenache Festival will be held on November 7th, 2026 in Waitsburg, Washington. It will feature a blind tasting seminar, followed by three breakout sessions and, of course, live music, food, plenty of Grenache wines, and tons of fun.For more information, go to GrenacheFestFollow GrenacheFest on IG GrenacheFest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Storms and Sunshine: A Vineyard's Tale of Unity and Resilience Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2026-08-09-07-38-19-es Story Transcript:Es: El viento helado soplaba suavemente entre las filas de vides en el viñedo de Belén, situado en una región de colinas.En: The icy wind blew gently through the rows of grapevines in Belén's vineyard, situated in a hilly region.Es: Era invierno, y las vides dormían bajo una capa de escarcha blanca.En: It was winter, and the vines lay dormant under a blanket of white frost.Es: A lo lejos, se veía un acogedor caserío de ventanas cálidas, como si invitara a los pocos visitantes a refugiarse del frío.En: In the distance, there was a cozy farmhouse with warm windows, as if inviting the few visitors to take shelter from the cold.Es: Belén caminaba entre las filas, observando las plantas dormidas.En: Belén walked among the rows, observing the dormant plants.Es: Era una apasionada viticultora, dedicada en cuerpo y alma al viñedo familiar.En: She was a passionate viticulturist, dedicated heart and soul to the family vineyard.Es: Estaba concentrada en preparar la mezcla de vino perfecta para un evento importante.En: She was focused on preparing the perfect wine blend for an important event.Es: Querían impresionar a los inversores, y Belén llevaba días planeando cada detalle.En: They wanted to impress the investors, and Belén had spent days planning every detail.Es: Mateo, su primo de la ciudad, había venido a pasar unos días.En: Mateo, her cousin from the city, had come to spend a few days.Es: Curioso por naturaleza, Mateo siempre quería ayudar aunque su torpeza a menudo le generaba problemas.En: Curious by nature, Mateo always wanted to help, although his clumsiness often got him into trouble.Es: Esa mañana, lo vio tocando una vid recién fertilizada.En: That morning, she saw him touching a newly fertilized vine.Es: Sin saberlo, provocó una reacción alérgica inmediata.En: Unknowingly, he triggered an immediate allergic reaction.Es: Su piel comenzó a enrojecer y a hincharse.En: His skin began to redden and swell.Es: Belén vio a Mateo desde el otro lado del viñedo y corrió hacia él.En: Belén saw Mateo from the other side of the vineyard and ran towards him.Es: Sabía que tenía que actuar rápido.En: She knew she had to act fast.Es: Respiró hondo y tomó una decisión.En: She took a deep breath and made a decision.Es: "Esteban, necesito tu ayuda," gritó, su voz apenas audible sobre el viento.En: "Esteban, I need your help," she shouted, her voice barely audible over the wind.Es: Esteban, un veterano trabajador y amigo de la familia, llegó en poco tiempo.En: Esteban, a veteran worker and friend of the family, arrived quickly.Es: Conocía bien el viñedo y las plantas.En: He knew the vineyard and the plants well.Es: Mientras Belén se ocupaba de Mateo, confió en que Esteban sabría qué hacer con la preparación del vino.En: While Belén took care of Mateo, she trusted Esteban to know what to do with the wine preparation.Es: La situación se complicó al caer la noche.En: The situation grew complicated as night fell.Es: Una tormenta repentina llegó, trayendo consigo lluvia y viento feroz.En: A sudden storm arrived, bringing with it rain and fierce winds.Es: Belén, ocupada cuidando a Mateo y angustiada por el viñedo, sintió que el peso del mundo caía sobre sus hombros.En: Belén, busy caring for Mateo and worried about the vineyard, felt the weight of the world on her shoulders.Es: La lluvia azotaba las ventanas del caserío, y Belén desde la puerta contemplaba el caos que se desataba afuera.En: The rain battered the farmhouse windows, and Belén, from the doorway, contemplated the chaos unfolding outside.Es: Mateo, por su parte, comenzaba a mejorar; el tratamiento que le había administrado surtía efecto.En: Mateo, meanwhile, began to improve; the treatment she had given him was taking effect.Es: En un momento de claridad, Belén se dio cuenta de que no estaba sola.En: In a moment of clarity, Belén realized she was not alone.Es: Su familia, sus amigos como Esteban, estaban allí, listos para ayudar.En: Her family and friends like Esteban were there, ready to help.Es: No tenía que cargar con todo por sí misma.En: She didn't have to bear it all by herself.Es: A medida que la tormenta amainaba, Esteban entró a la casa con una sonrisa tranquila.En: As the storm subsided, Esteban entered the house with a calm smile.Es: "Todo está bajo control," le aseguró.En: "Everything is under control," he assured her.Es: Gracias a su ayuda, el vino también estaba a salvo.En: Thanks to his help, the wine was safe too.Es: El día del evento, el sol brilló sobre el viñedo, reflejando la quietud tras la tormenta.En: On the day of the event, the sun shone over the vineyard, reflecting the calm after the storm.Es: Mateo, completamente recuperado, estaba a su lado, igual que Esteban.En: Mateo, fully recovered, stood by her side, as did Esteban.Es: Los inversores quedaron impresionados con el sabor y la dedicación que sintieron en esa mezcla de vino.En: The investors were impressed with the flavor and the dedication they felt in that wine blend.Es: Belén comprendió que el verdadero éxito estaba en la unión y apoyo de su gente.En: Belén understood that true success lay in the unity and support of her people.Es: Juntos, podrían lograr cualquier cosa.En: Together, they could achieve anything.Es: En su sonrisa se dibujaba la satisfacción de haber aprendido la valiosa lección de que en la familia y la comunidad se encuentra la verdadera fuerza.En: Her smile showed the satisfaction of having learned the valuable lesson that true strength is found in family and community. Vocabulary Words:icy wind: el viento heladograpevines: las videsvineyard: el viñedohilly region: la región de colinasdormant: dormidofrost: la escarchafarmhouse: el caseríoviticulturist: la viticultorainvestors: los inversoresclumsiness: la torpezaallergic reaction: la reacción alérgicaredden: enrojecerveteran worker: el veterano trabajadorpreparedness: la preparaciónstorm: la tormentachaos: el caosshelter: el refugiostrength: la fuerzaunity: la uniónsupport: el apoyoclarity: la claridadimpress: impresionardedication: la dedicaciónblend: la mezclapassionate: apasionadacomplicated: complicadotrust: confiarweight: el pesotreatment: el tratamientocommunity: la comunidad
Fr. Fessio points out how the process of wine making and yeast fermentation is like the life of a Christian.
This episode of Wine Crush Podcast takes us to one of Oregon wine country's most iconic destinations, Soter Vineyards at Mineral Springs Ranch.Founded in 1997 by Tony and Michelle Soter, Soter's story is deeply woven into the history of American wine. Before coming to Oregon, Tony built an impressive winemaking career in Napa Valley, including founding Etude and consulting for some of California's most celebrated wineries. In 2001, the Soters purchased Mineral Springs Ranch, a former cattle ranch in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, and began transforming it into the remarkable biodynamic farm and vineyard it is today. In this episode, we get behind the scenes with Soter's winemaker Chris Fladwood, who has been part of the Soter team since 2009, working his way from Cellar Master to Director of Winemaking & Viticulture. We talk wine, farming, Oregon's wine history, and what it really takes to make wines that reflect a place. And because wine and food belong together, we're also joined by Soter's head chef for a delicious conversation about the connection between the vineyard, the farm, the kitchen and the table.Soter's philosophy goes well beyond making great Pinot Noir. Their biodynamic approach treats Mineral Springs Ranch as a living ecosystem, with vineyards, gardens, livestock and the land all working together. And their sparkling wine program has its own Oregon history, beginning with the very first Soter wine, the 1997 Brut Rosé. This is one of those episodes where you get the wine, the stories, the food and a deeper appreciation for the people and place behind the bottle.Pour yourself something good and come with us to Mineral Springs Ranch. This is Soter Vineyards.
This episode of Wine Crush Podcast takes us to one of Oregon wine country's most iconic destinations, Soter Vineyards at Mineral Springs Ranch.Founded in 1997 by Tony and Michelle Soter, Soter's story is deeply woven into the history of American wine. Before coming to Oregon, Tony built an impressive winemaking career in Napa Valley, including founding Etude and consulting for some of California's most celebrated wineries. In 2001, the Soters purchased Mineral Springs Ranch, a former cattle ranch in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, and began transforming it into the remarkable biodynamic farm and vineyard it is today. In this episode, we get behind the scenes with Soter's winemaker Chris Fladwood, who has been part of the Soter team since 2009, working his way from Cellar Master to Director of Winemaking & Viticulture. We talk wine, farming, Oregon's wine history, and what it really takes to make wines that reflect a place. And because wine and food belong together, we're also joined by Soter's head chef for a delicious conversation about the connection between the vineyard, the farm, the kitchen and the table.Soter's philosophy goes well beyond making great Pinot Noir. Their biodynamic approach treats Mineral Springs Ranch as a living ecosystem, with vineyards, gardens, livestock and the land all working together. And their sparkling wine program has its own Oregon history, beginning with the very first Soter wine, the 1997 Brut Rosé. This is one of those episodes where you get the wine, the stories, the food and a deeper appreciation for the people and place behind the bottle.Pour yourself something good and come with us to Mineral Springs Ranch. This is Soter Vineyards.
What does it take to build a winery that honors both the land and the people who cultivate it?In this episode, we meet Andy Neja, founder and winemaker of Cairjn Wine Cellars, one of Paso Robles' most exciting boutique wineries. Named after the word "cairn"—a carefully stacked pile of stones that serves as both a landmark and a tribute—Cairjn reflects Andy's family's farming heritage and the limestone-rich soils that define the West Paso landscape.Andy didn't simply become a winemaker—he immersed himself in every aspect of the wine industry, from vineyard work and farming to hospitality, retail, and cellar operations. That hands-on experience shaped a philosophy centered on one simple belief: "Winemaking happens in the vineyard; everything else is secondary."Together, we explore how sustainability, meticulous vineyard practices, and relationships with some of Paso Robles' finest growers allow Cairjn to produce small-lot wines of exceptional character.Andy also shares the challenges and rewards of launching his own label, the importance of honoring vineyard workers, and why authenticity remains the foundation of every bottle.Whether you're passionate about fine wine, terroir, sustainable farming, or entrepreneurial journeys, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the dedication required to transform a dream into one of California's most promising boutique wineries.Pour yourself a glass and discover why Cairjn Wine Cellars is quickly becoming one of Paso Robles' hidden treasures.
Send us Fan MailKalche Wine Cooperative is helping lead the way toward a new, sustainable, worker-designed economy. Their farming and production practices pay tribute to the pan-cultural origins of winemaking by preserving the bounty our environment provides. They embrace hybrid grapes, local fruits, and innovative fermentation methods to maximize resourcefulness, reduce environmental impact, and minimize waste. It's a fascinating history lesson for every wine lover.Check out the website: www.drinkingonthejob.com for great past episodes. Everyone from Iron Chefs, winemakers, journalist and more.
The much-loved actor Sam Neill had an unusual path into acting. Raised in New Zealand as a shy boy with a stutter named Nigel, he was 30 when he got his big break (R) Sam, who has died at the age of 78, was an acclaimed actor, a winemaker, an author, a cancer survivor and a Dad to four children. In recent years he had cared for cows, pigs, ducks and horses on his farm in New Zealand while making Pinot Noir.In his remarkable career as an actor he starred in more than 100 films including Jurassic Park, My Brilliant Career, and The Piano.A few years ago, stuck in Sydney while undergoing treatment for cancer, Sam found himself with a lot of time on his hands to reflect on his eclectic life.Sarah spoke to him in 2023 after the release of his quirky, funny and life-affirming memoir.Further information:Did I Ever Tell You This is published by Text
Watch On Youtube: youtube.com/watch?v=dlnjBMS6Jto&feature=youtu.be Daniel Valverde (@DanielValv3rd3) is a Peruvian entrepreneur who calls himself “the most interesting Peruvian in the world.” After building a successful cleaning company that now operates under his team in Peru, he stepped away from the day-to-day business to pursue a long-held passion: reviving Peruvian winemaking. In this episode, Daniel shares his journey from entrepreneurship to launching Valtierro, his inaugural 2025 wine vintage, along with the lessons he's learned building businesses, traveling the world, and creating a brand rooted in Peru's history. While Peru is already celebrated globally for its cuisine, including Central in Lima being named the World's Best Restaurant, few people realize the country has been producing wine for nearly 500 years. Home to some of the oldest vineyards in the Americas, Peru's winemaking tradition predates many of today's famous New World wine regions. Daniel explains why he believes Peru is on the verge of becoming the next great wine destination, how grapes like Negra Criolla are helping revive this forgotten heritage, and why Valtierro aims to be at the forefront of Peru's next chapter in fine wine. Peru, Lima, Living in Lima, Peru Travel, Peru Wine, Peruvian Wine, Valtierro, Negra Criolla, Daniel Valverde, Jake, Bold Perceptions Podcast, Travel Podcast, Digital Nomad, Nomad Life, Expat Life, Living Abroad, Entrepreneurship, Business Podcast, Founder Story, Winemaking, Vineyard, Fine Wine, Luxury Wine, New World Wine, Central Restaurant Lima, World's Best Restaurant, South America, Peru Culture, Malbec, Wine Tasting Best Esim For Travelers: $27 a month, unlimited data, 100+ countries = pangia pass Use my link for 10% off: https://pangiapass.com/a/bold Find Me Here: https://linktr.ee/bold.perceptions Travel / Lifestyle Consultation, DM Me On Instagram: bold_perceptions #travel #podcast #peru #wine #solotravel
According to all the headlines, the wine industry is in trouble — sales are plummeting, major producers are shrinking their portfolios, and the natural wine movement has become a punchline. But what if wine isn't actually in crisis at all? Louis Schofield, founder of World Apart Wines, joins us to argue that the industry is simply returning to reality after years of unsustainable growth. We Want to Hear from You!Have a topic, craft category, or craft company you'd like to see us cover? Email us at: info@blisterreview.com to share those or any other thoughts you have about CRAFTED.TOPICS & TIMES:Craft Collective (1:15)Louis' Background (2:38)White Burgundy (7:06)Working In Retail (9:46)Top 50 Restaurants (13:05)Dogma vs. Drinkability (17:47)Regression to the Mean (22:22)The Influence of Taras Ochota (25:03)Wine Making (30:07)The Art of Winemaking (33:11)Post-Natural Wine Making (38:23)Problems w/ Natural Wine (47:03)Off-grid Wine Making (51:11)EPISODE SPONSOR: oneskin.co/BLISTERRELATED LINKS:World Apart WinesVine Street ImportsBlister Craft CollectiveBecome a BLISTER+ MemberSEE OUR OTHER PODCASTS:Blister CinematicBikes & Big IdeasGEAR:30Blister PodcastENTER OUR WEEKLY GIVEAWAYS:Enter Our Free Weekly Giveaways Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Justin Ennis, Senior Director of Winemaking, Freestone Vineyards, Sonoma Coast, defining the term “Whole Cluster”. Lear more by visiting josephphelps.com/freestone-vineyards
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay tend to run hand in hand coastal areas of California. Freestone Vineyards focuses on those two grapes along the Sonoma Coast making some very serious wines. Justin Ennis is the Senior Director of Winemaking and I caught with him recently to learn more about this wine that had its start at [...]
This week's show comes to you from Phantom Creek Estates, a premier, family-owned winery on B.C.'s Black Sage Bench, focused on producing exceptional organic and biodynamic Bordeaux-style reds and Alsace-influenced whites. 2026 marks the 10-year anniversary of Phantom Creek Estates, which has added two new Estate tours: the Grand Cellar Experience and the History Room Terroir Tasting Experience. Our guests include Jean-Marc Enixon, Director of Winemaking at Phantom Creek Estates, who welcomes us to the picturesque tasting room and speaks to their growing wine club enrollment and the 1-4 pm Music Series every Sunday. With Jean-Marc, we taste the newly released 2025 Rosé and 2025 Pinot Noir. We are humbled to be joined in the room by Olivier Humbrecht, Consulting Winemaker at Phantom Creek Estates. Olivier is the tenth generation of the Alsace-based Humbrecht family to be a winegrower, for whom agriculture and viticulture are simply part of you. In 2017, under the guidance of Olivier Humbrecht MW, Phantom Creek Estates decided to introduce two noble Alsace varieties, Pinot Gris and Riesling, to the Evernden Spring Vineyard, just over the Kobau Mountain as the crow flies in the Similkameen Valley. Olivier talks about the 2023 Small Lot Pinot Gris and 2023 Small Lot Riesling. We also caught up with Phantom Creek Assistant Winemaker Calli Bailey, who shares insights into her passion for the vineyard as we taste two new wines: the 2025 Phantom Blanc and the 2025 Coeur d'Été. Finally, Director of Farming Mike Anderson talks viticulture, and we taste the 2022 Kobau Syrah and 2018 Phantom Creek Vineyard Malbec.
In this wine podcast episode, Janina takes you on a deep dive through the Loire Valley - one of the world's most diverse and fascinating wine regions - using the WSET Diploma textbook as a guide. Whether you're studying for the D3 Wines of the World exam, planning future wine travel, or simply want to learn about wine in a more structured way, this flashcard-style episode explores the Loire Valley from the Atlantic coast to Sancerre in the east. Discover the region's climate, soils, wine grapes and winemaking styles, including Muscadet, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, while building a deeper understanding of French wine and wine education along the way. Timestamps 2:18 – Introduction to the Loire Valley - history, the river, and how regions are divided 3:22 – Overview of the regions and key grape varieties - Melon, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc 4:13 – Pays Nantais: Region & Grapes - Melon de Bourgogne, Muscadet, and Folle Blanche 4:54 – Pays Nantais: Climate & Challenges - maritime climate, spring frost, and rainfall risks 6:00 – The Melon Grape - why it thrives here, its viticultural traits, and disease vulnerabilities 7:06 – Muscadet Wine Style -fresh, light, high acid; vineyard management and winemaking 9:21 – Sur Lie - what it means, why it matters, and how it adds texture 10:00 – Muscadet Appellations & Wine Laws - AOCs, yields, sur lie rules, and labelling 11:31 – Muscadet Cru Communaux - Clisson, Gorges, Le Pallet, and how they differ 12:30 – Muscadet Commercially - the 1991 frost, the decline, and repositioning 13:34 – Middle Loire: Anjou-Saumur & Touraine – Introduction 13:44 – Key Grape Varieties - Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc 14:25 – Climate Across the Middle Loire - Atlantic to continental, rainfall timing risks 15:54 – Sweet Wine Conditions in Anjou - the River Layon, mist, and noble rot 16:26 – Soils of Anjou-Saumur & Touraine - schist, limestone, tuff, and chlorosis risk 17:23 – Chenin Blanc in Detail - viticulture challenges, styles from dry to botrytized sweet 18:59 – Cabernet Franc - viticultural traits, flavour profile, and uses in red and rosé 20:28 – Other Red Grapes - Grolleau Noir, Gamay, and Cabernet Sauvignon 21:43 – Winemaking in the Middle Loire - Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and rosé techniques 22:51 – Appellations & Wine Law: Overview - how the Middle Loire is structured 23:25 – Anjou AOC - yields, blends, Anjou Villages, and producers labelling as Vin de France 24:55 – Coteaux du Layon - sweet botrytized Chenin Blanc, sub-appellations, yield/alcohol hierarchy 28:48 – Savennières AOC - dry Chenin Blanc, schist soils, La Roche-aux-Moines, Coulée de Serrant 30:42 – Rosé Appellations - Rosé de Loire, Rosé d'Anjou, and Cabernet d'Anjou 32:22 – Saumur AOC - white, red, rosé, and sparkling styles; yields and appellations 33:23 – Saumur-Champigny AOC - Cabernet Franc, soils, style, and commercial history 34:41 – Touraine AOC - styles, grapes, subzones, Vouvray, Montlouis, Bourgueil, and Chinon 39:05 – Central Vineyards: Introduction - the eight AOCs of the far east Loire 40:08 – Central Vineyards: Climate - continental conditions, frost, hail, and long daylight hours 41:09 – Sauvignon Blanc - viticulture, flavour profiles, and the effect of canopy and picking date 43:28 – Winemaking in the Central Vineyards - fermentation, MLF, and oak use 44:41 – Sancerre AOC - grapes, yields, history, style, and top producers 46:16 – Sancerre Soils - caillote, terre blanche, and silex, and how each shapes the wine 47:11 – Pouilly-Fumé AOC - style differences from Sancerre, frost risk, and bottle age 47:54 – Other Central Vineyard AOCs - Reuilly, Quincy, Menetou-Salon, and bonus appellations 50:04 – The Loire Today: Trade & Commerce - family estates, négociants, exports, and market structure 51:00 – Négociants - their role, consolidation, and the blurring line with estates 52:00 – Organic, Biodynamic & Natural Wine - the Loire as a hub, Nicolas Joly, and Vin de France
Es ist verlockend: Neuerdings erlaubt die verpflichtende Auflistung von Inhaltsstoffen auf dem Weinetikett, wahlweise als QR-Coder hinterlegt, einen Einblick in das Winemaking. Und siehe da: alles Panscher! Wir müssen darüber reden, welcher Aspekt dieser Neuerung ein Segen und welcher ein Fluch ist. Im Glas: Malvasia aus Mallorca und Spätburgunder von Bardorf aus Franken
Romania is home to some of Europe's most exciting indigenous grape varieties, yet remains one of the continent's most overlooked wine destinations. In this episode, Janina sits down with Winemaking duo and Husband and Wife, Nora Iriarte and Hartley Smithers of Cramele Recaș to explore Fetească Neagră, Fetească Regală and Fetească Albă, uncovering why Romanian wine deserves far more attention from wine lovers around the world. Along the way, they debate cork versus screwcap, discuss natural fermentation and minimal intervention winemaking, explain how climate change is affecting Romanian vineyards, and reveal the realities of producing quality wine at scale. You'll also discover Romania's key wine regions, get wine travel recommendations for Timișoara, learn why Fetească Neagră is one of Europe's most exciting red grapes, and hear firsthand what modern Romanian winemaking looks like today. Shownotes 1:45 – Introduction to Cramele Recas and their sustainability credentials 3:49 – An overview of the wine regions in Romania 06:19 – Nora's unforgettable introduction to the wine world and the hilarious misunderstanding that filled her car with wine samples. 09:13 – Hartley's biggest lesson after decades in wine: why not everything in wine education should be accepted without question. 13:03 – Cork versus screwcap: a candid discussion about wine closures and preserving wine quality. 14:35 – The winemaking tasks they secretly love most, from lees stirring to hand plunging. 17:24 – Nora's passion for blending logistics, mathematics and winery efficiency. 18:53 – Romania's key indigenous wine grapes explained: Fetească Regală, Fetească Albă and Fetească Neagră. 21:34 – Tasting M&S Fetească Albă (£8 Ocado): flavour profile, food pairing suggestions and why Romanian whites deserve more attention. 24:10 – Why Romanian wines deliver exceptional value and how Cramele Recaș maintains quality at every price point. 26:18 – The hidden challenges of producing wine in million-litre fermentation tanks. 29:19 – Minimal intervention winemaking and preserving the true expression of the grapes. 30:54 – Tasting Selene Fetească Neagră 2023 (£19.14 Firth & Co): Romania's flagship red grape and its distinctive silky tannins. 32:51 – Other native Romanian varieties and the growing international interest in indigenous wines. 35:02 – Exploring Romania's wine regions: Banat, Transylvania, Moldova and the influence of climate and geography. 36:50 – Expanding beyond Banat: the story behind Cramele Recaș's second winery near Moldova. 37:33 – Higher altitude vineyards, sparkling wine production and where Romania's coolest wine regions are found. 38:46 – Climate change, vineyard resilience and adapting to increasingly unpredictable vintages. 39:50 – The biggest challenges facing Romanian wine over the next twenty years. 44:54 – What Nora and Hartley brought back from Australia to improve modern Romanian winemaking. 45:38 – Which wine grape is the hardest to get right every vintage? The challenge of Fetească Neagră. 48:12 – A perfect wine travel itinerary for Timișoara, one of Europe's most underrated cultural destinations. 51:29 – ROVINHUD: the Romanian wine festival every wine lover should know about. 52:52 – What visitors should pay attention to when touring Cramele Recaș.
This week Shelley and I enjoy some flora, playing as rival flowershop owners in Floristry by David Gordon and TAM from UP Games then placating our oenophile obsession in Vineyard: A Wine Making Game by Roberta Taylor from Pencil First Games Remember to check out our video series over on YouTube, and you can sponsor this podcast and our video series by going to www.patreon.com/garrettsgames OR check out our extensive list of games that no longer fit on our shelves, but belong on your table: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16ovRDNBqur0RiAzgFAfI0tYYnjlJ68hoHyHffU7ZDWk/edit?usp=sharing
Fluent Fiction - Italian: Frosty Bonds: A Vineyard's Resilience and Friendship Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-05-29-07-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Il sole spuntava dolcemente sulle colline della Toscana, illuminando le vigne con una luce dorata.En: The sun rose gently over the hills of Toscana, illuminating the vineyards with a golden light.It: Era primavera e l'aria era fresca, punteggiata dal profumo dei fiori e delle erbe selvatiche.En: It was spring, and the air was fresh, dotted with the scent of flowers and wild herbs.It: Giulia camminava con passo deciso tra le file di viti.En: Giulia walked with a determined step among the rows of vines.It: Era orgogliosa delle sue uve.En: She was proud of her grapes.It: "Questo è un anno cruciale", pensava, mentre ricordava le parole di suo padre, che le aveva insegnato l'arte della viticoltura.En: "This is a crucial year," she thought, recalling her father's words, who had taught her the art of viticulture.It: Accanto a lei, Luca osservava ogni mossa.En: Beside her, Luca observed her every move.It: Era nuovo in questo lavoro, ma la sua passione era evidente.En: He was new to this work, but his passion was evident.It: Si avvicinò a Giulia, gli occhi pieni di curiosità.En: He approached Giulia, his eyes full of curiosity.It: "Come facciamo a proteggerle dalle gelate tardive?"En: "How do we protect them from late frosts?"It: chiese.En: he asked.It: Giulia, con un sorriso affettuoso, gli spiegò le sfide dell'agricoltura.En: Giulia, with an affectionate smile, explained the challenges of agriculture to him.It: "Dobbiamo essere pronti a tutto", rispose.En: "We have to be prepared for anything," she replied.It: Le giornate passavano rapide mentre preparavano la vigna per la stagione del raccolto.En: The days passed quickly as they prepared the vineyard for the harvest season.It: Poi, un giorno, la notizia arrivò inaspettata: una gelata era prevista per quella notte.En: Then, one day, the news arrived unexpectedly: a frost was forecast for that night.It: Giulia sentì un brivido di paura.En: Giulia felt a chill of fear.It: "Potremmo perdere tutto", pensò, preoccupata.En: "We might lose everything," she thought, worried.It: Luca vedeva l'ansia di Giulia e voleva aiutare.En: Luca saw Giulia's anxiety and wanted to help.It: "Posso restare qui stanotte?"En: "Can I stay here tonight?"It: propose.En: he proposed.It: "Posso controllare le temperature e avvertirti se scendono troppo."En: "I can monitor the temperatures and warn you if they drop too low."It: Giulia esitò ma alla fine accettò.En: Giulia hesitated but finally agreed.It: "D'accordo, ma stai attento", disse.En: "Alright, but be careful," she said.It: Sapeva che ogni decisione contava.En: She knew that every decision mattered.It: Quella notte, le stelle brillavano fredde nel cielo.En: That night, the stars shone coldly in the sky.It: Luca camminava tra le viti, controllando il termometro.En: Luca walked among the vines, checking the thermometer.It: L'aria diventava sempre più fredda e il suo cuore batteva forte.En: The air grew colder, and his heart was pounding.It: Ad un certo punto, la temperatura scese bruscamente.En: At one point, the temperature dropped sharply.It: Luca corse alla capanna degli attrezzi, accese i venti di protezione e posizionò coperte termiche sulle viti più giovani.En: Luca ran to the tool shed, turned on the protective fans, and placed thermal blankets over the younger vines.It: Nel frattempo, Giulia era sveglia nel suo ufficio, aspettando con ansia notizie.En: Meanwhile, Giulia was awake in her office, anxiously waiting for news.It: Quando arrivò l'alba, si precipitò in vigna e trovò Luca pieno di energia nonostante la stanchezza.En: When dawn arrived, she rushed to the vineyard and found Luca full of energy despite his exhaustion.It: "Hai salvato le uve", disse con gratitudine, abbracciandolo.En: "You saved the grapes," she said gratefully, hugging him.It: "Anche tu hai fatto un lavoro straordinario a organizzare tutto," rispose Luca, sorridendo.En: "You also did an extraordinary job organizing everything," replied Luca, smiling.It: Quel giorno, sotto il cielo limpido e azzurro della Toscana, Giulia e Luca guardarono le viti.En: That day, under the clear blue sky of Toscana, Giulia and Luca looked at the vines.It: Erano un team, più forti insieme.En: They were a team, stronger together.It: Giulia capì di poter fidarsi di Luca e di altri aiutanti con passione e dedizione.En: Giulia realized she could trust Luca and other helpers with passion and dedication.It: Luca, invece, aveva finalmente trovato il suo posto nella vigna.En: Luca, on the other hand, had finally found his place in the vineyard.It: Le colline si stendevano serene sotto di loro.En: The hills stretched serenely beneath them.It: La minaccia della gelata aveva consolidato una nuova amicizia e una nuova stagione prometteva abbondanza e successo.En: The threat of frost had solidified a new friendship, and a new season promised abundance and success.It: L'avventura, pensava Giulia, era solo all'inizio.En: The adventure, Giulia thought, was just beginning. Vocabulary Words:the vineyard: la vignathe vine: la vitethe vineyard row: la fila di vitithe vine leaves: le foglie delle vitithe frost: la gelatathe harvest: la raccoltathe wild herbs: le erbe selvatichethe tool shed: la capanna degli attrezzithe protective fans: i venti di protezionethe thermal blankets: le coperte termichethe anxiety: l'ansiathe exhaustion: la stanchezzathe chill: il brividothe thermometer: il termometrothe abundance: l'abbondanzathe success: il successothe threat: la minacciathe adventure: l'avventurathe vineyard worker: il lavoratore della vignathe spring: la primaverathe vineyard team: il team della vignathe sky: il cielothe dawn: l'albathe passion: la passionethe dedication: la dedizionethe viticulture: la viticolturathe season: la stagionethe hills: le collinethe clear blue sky: il cielo limpido e azzurrothe energy: l'energia
Mimi Casteel grew up on a vineyard in northwestern Oregon, where her family made wine as much for the passion as for the livelihood. She left home to study forestry and worked as a botanist for the forest service, but the pull of agriculture brought her back to the family farm, where she introduced regenerative practices and eventually started her own vineyard, Hope Well Wine. For Casteel, the practice of wine-making begins with the land—a complex ecosystem teeming with wildlife, cover crops, and livestock—all of which contribute to healthy soil. That soil is the basis for robustly healthy vines, which keep pests in balance without the use of chemicals, and keep the ground cool in the heat, warm in the cold, and resilient in the face of droughts and floods. Casteel is a scientist, a close observer of nature whose perspective pushes the limits of science, and an artist in the millennia-old tradition of wine-making. She's also a passionate advocate for regenerative agriculture and regional food systems.
This is what is so interesting about the wine trade. It takes a ton of passion to do this, it is hard work and sometimes, without the passion, it just feels like a vanity project. At Caiarosa in Italy, the passion extends from Bordeaux France. I have had the pleasure to sit with the Director of the famed Chateau Giscours, a 2nd growth Bordeaux, and find their story and approach solid, but adventurous. Enter Caiarosa on the west side of Tuscany; a solidly Tuscan winery employing the methodes and thought processes of Bordeaux; sounds mixed up? Have a listen and find out why this makes sense. Ivo Assanelli may not travel with a corkscrew in one hand and a passport in the other, but after this conversation, you'll swear he's unlocked the essence of Tuscany with each bottle he opens. This episode invites listeners into a world where the liquid in your glass is no ordinary beverage—it's a vessel for stories, heritage, and profound emotion. Paul Kalemkiarian hosts a discussion that sweeps you from windswept Tuscan hills to bustling global wine expos, all while wrestling with questions of tradition, innovation, and the ever-changing palate of a new generation. You'll immediately sense that with every uncorked bottle, Ivo Assanelli carries not just the flavors of Cairosa, but the soul of winemaking itself. You'll learn why simply calling wine "alcohol" or "a beverage" misses its very point—and how approaching a glass, whether in California or on the coast of Tuscany, is an act steeped in generations of craft, climate, and culture. The conversation pulls listeners behind the scenes into the delicate business of sustaining organic and biodynamic vineyards, the unpredictability of weather, and the fine art of blending parcels that can shift in character every few yards. They explore the struggles and triumphs of carrying European tradition into markets where attention spans are short and every shelf is crowded, revealing that success means more than just good wine; it's about forging human connections and passing along stories that endure. From clinking glasses at wine fairs to humble tales of filling demi-johns in Italian villages, every anecdote reinforces just how tightly wine is woven into the fabric of life. You'll come away tasting not just the terroir, but the history, the hardship, the romance, and the unwavering passion that makes a bottle come alive in your hands.
Robert Mondavi, Iconic Winery, Oakville, 250th episode, Dodgers/Giants Rivalry and interview with Kurtis Ogasawara, director of winemaking, Robert Mondavi Winery. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of European & Asian sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in the world of California wine, chatting along the way with the key influencers in the industry who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Kurtis Ogasawara, director of winemaking, Robert Mondavi Winery.
The Concours Mondial de Bruxelles is coming to Yerevan, Armenia. It is a huge feather in the cap of the Armenian wine trade and the story of how and why it landed there is inspiring. Quentin Havaux is the 3rd generation of the fames tasting and judging group and the ascent to international recognition of the CMB is quite organic and humble. The wine trade is unforgiving and requires tenancity and patience. Quentin describes the history of CMB with pure enthusiasm and passion. And the relentless ambition to tell the stories of wine is inspiring. Quentin Havaux believes wine isn't about intimidating jargon or arbitrary numbers—it's about the stories, the traditions, and the sheer enjoyment found in every glass. In this sparkling episode, listeners are invited to sip on the wisdom of the CEO of Vinopress, the driving force behind the influential Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. From family roots in the Belgian printing trade to orchestrating one of the world's most respected wine competitions, Quentin reveals why he's determined to keep wine approachable and full of wonder, rather than just a sum on a scale. Together with Paul Kalemkiarian, he uncorks how competition medals still shape the global wine trade, what it takes to champion emerging regions like Armenia, and how even the smallest producers can stand out when passion meets innovation. You'll hear how Quentin's commitment to making wine enjoyable for everyone is influencing how we select, taste, and understand what's in our glass. Get ready to travel from the wine bars of Seoul to the bustling streets of Yerevan, as Quentin brings us behind the scenes—from organizing blind tastings for thousands of wines to creating new ways for both connoisseurs and novices to connect with complex flavors through simple, engaging experiences. The narrative seamlessly blends the old world with the new: ancient Armenian amphorae, fresh-faced entrepreneurs, and an ever-curious new generation seeking more than just another familiar bottle on the shelf. Here's a taste of what you'll walk away with:
In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina heads to the Atlantic coast of Galicia in Spain to explore one of the most exciting wine regions for white wines: Rías Baixas. Joined by winemaker Aran Álvarez from Martín Códax, this episode is a deep dive into Albariño from Rías Baixas - one of the most expressive white wine grapes in the world. From terroir and climate to winemaking techniques, lees ageing, sparkling styles, orange wine and even noble rot, this episode explores just how many different expressions one grape can create. If you want to learn about wine, understand how wine styles are shaped, and get inspired for your next wine travel destination, this episode is for you. 04:11 – Val do Salnés explained — the heart of Albariño and a key Atlantic wine region. 05:47 – Climate change — shifting rainfall patterns and their impact on vineyards. 06:46 – Pergola (emparrado) training — the traditional system adapted to humidity. 11:18 – Atlantic influence — how proximity to the ocean shapes salinity and freshness. 13:03 – A benchmark Albariño — fresh, saline and beautifully balanced; try Martín Códax Albariño (Rías Baixas) 15:12 – Granitic soils — drainage, organic matter and their role in wine structure. 17:11 – Winemaking styles — from fresh Albariño to lees-aged expressions such as Martín Códax Lías 21:05 – Lees aging explained — how it transforms texture, flavour and complexity. 22:38 – Batonnage technique — how winemakers integrate lees without oxidation. 26:28 – Innovation at Martín Códax — why experimentation drives new wine styles. 28:58 – Why make sparkling Albariño (Martín Códax Espumoso)? Exploring the grape's natural potential. 30:03 – Harvest timing — multiple harvest stages depending on wine style. 32:21 – Lessons from sparkling winemaking — acidity, timing and precision. 37:28 – Lees interaction — why Albariño absorbs texture and complexity so well. 38:45 – Dry Albariño affected by Noble Rot (Martín Códax Gallaecia) — how a rare late-harvest wine style was developed. 44:26 – Orange wine (Martín Códax OW) — skin contact, structure and a completely different expression. 47:58 – Aging potential — how Albariño evolves beyond its youthful freshness. 49:43 – Climate adaptation — vineyard experiments, data and future-proofing the grape. 52:31 – Martín Códax philosophy — community, culture and generational winemaking.
In this new episode of 20 Divin, some of you will discover Liechtenstein
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of Inside the Bunghole, we welcomed Scott Lindstrom-Dake of Thumbprint Cellars, a Sonoma County winemaker whose background in art deeply informs every bottle he creates. Scott shared his unconventional path into winemaking, which began in art school and evolved through curiosity, creativity, and a growing appreciation for wine as a form of expression. What started as a practical way to enjoy better wine on a student budget became a lifelong pursuit, with Scott ultimately transforming winemaking into an artistic medium—one rooted in balance, narrative, and personal identity, symbolized by the thumbprint label that bears his own mark.Throughout the conversation, Scott Lindstrom-Dake explored his philosophy of sourcing exceptional grapes from trusted growers across Sonoma County rather than farming himself. His portfolio spans a diverse range of varietals, including Chardonnay in both stainless steel and oak styles, old-vine Carignan, Grenache Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Zinfandel-based blends. He emphasized the importance of vineyard relationships, thoughtful harvest timing, and restraint in the cellar, allowing the fruit to lead the process. For Scott, winemaking mirrors cooking more than baking—grounded in technical understanding but guided by intuition, aesthetics, and experience.His candid, humorous, and thoughtful approach made for an engaging conversation that perfectly captured the spirit of Inside the Bunghole—where wine is both serious craft and joyful exploration.Cheers! Please like, follow, subscribe and rate us! We LOVE to hear your comments! Reach out to us on our social media: Facebook and Instagram @insidethebungholeTwitter @bungholepodcastOur webpage is insidethebunghole.buzzsprout.comOR email us at insidethebunghole@gmail.com
Pippa speaks to former rugby player, Burton Francis, about his journey from a life-changing injury to founding his own wine label and academy. Lunch with Pippa Hudson is CapeTalk’s mid-afternoon show. This 2-hour respite from hard news encourages the audience to take the time to explore, taste, read and reflect. The show - presented by former journalist, baker and water sports enthusiast Pippa Hudson - is unashamedly lifestyle driven. Popular features include a daily profile interview #OnTheCouch at 1:10pm. Consumer issues are in the spotlight every Wednesday while the team also unpacks all things related to health, wealth & the environment. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Lunch with Pippa Hudson Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 13:00 and 15:00 (SA Time) to Lunch with Pippa Hudson broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/MdSlWEs or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/fDJWe69 Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Alex Stewart, Head Winemaker for Avallé, whose brands include Matthews, Tenor, From the Sky Down, Jaine, Single Barrel, and Blackboard, discusses what the transition was like from Quilceda Creek to Matthews Winery, what is extraordinary about Washington wine grapes, and how drinking wine is connected to special memories. Info at TasteWashington.org and Avalle.us
This week, we're schooling you on the wines of L'Ecole No 41. David Rosenthal is the new Director of Wine Making for the longtime Washington winery. They were pivotal in establishing the Walla Walla AVA, literally putting Washington wines on the map. L'Ecole No. 41 Semillon 2023 L'Ecole No. 41 Frenchtown Red 2023 L'Ecole No. 41 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley 2022 L'Ecole No. 41 Merlot Columbia Valley 2022 If you have a question for the Barrel to Bottle Crew, email us at comments@binnys.com, or reach out to us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. If we answer your question during a podcast, you'll get a $20 Binny's Gift Card! If you like our podcast, subscribe wherever you download podcasts. Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts.
DeWayne Boccali says he picked the three worst areas in which to make a living; music, farming and restaurants. But somehow he and wife Marilyn are still here, plugging along with all three for 40 years.On May 16, Boccali's Pizza & Pasta celebrates 40 years in business — a milestone few independent restaurants ever reach.In this episode of Ojai Talk of the Town, DeWayne and Marilyn Boccali reflect on four decades of farming, feeding Ojai, and adapting to everything from droughts and freezes to shifting food trends and economic swings.We talk about:• The financial and farming hardships that led them to open the restaurant• The evolution of Ojai agriculture over 40 years• Winemaking in the valley• Their iconic strawberry shortcake and tomato salads• Pumpkin patches, haunted hayrides, and building traditions that span generationsThis is more than a restaurant anniversary. It's a story about land stewardship, resilience, and what it takes to stay rooted in one valley for four decades. We did not talk about spud bars for ice fishing, batter's glove designs or the latest Tyler the Creator album drop.If you've ever lined up for strawberry shortcake in May, this episode is for you. Check out Boccali's at https://boccalis.com/
Fluent Fiction - Italian: Vineyard Allies: Tradition Meets Innovation in Crisis Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-03-08-22-34-01-it Story Transcript:It: Il sole del mattino si alzava lentamente sopra le colline di Toscana, tingendo tutto di un caldo oro.En: The morning sun rose slowly over the hills of Toscana, painting everything a warm gold.It: Luca respirava profondamente l'aria fresca, mentre si preparava per una giornata importante nella sua vigna.En: Luca took a deep breath of the fresh air as he prepared for an important day in his vineyard.It: Era l'inizio di marzo, vicino alla Giornata Internazionale della Donna, ma il tempo sembrava più invernale che primaverile.En: It was the beginning of March, close to International Women's Day, but the weather felt more wintry than spring-like.It: Luca guardò le sue file di viti con orgoglio e preoccupazione.En: Luca looked at his rows of vines with pride and worry.It: Questo era il sogno di suo nonno e il suo lavoro di una vita.En: This was his grandfather's dream and his life's work.It: Ma quella mattina, una notizia l'aveva scosso: un'improvvisa gelata notturna era prevista e avrebbe potuto distruggere l'intero raccolto di uva da vino.En: But that morning, a piece of news had shaken him: a sudden nighttime frost was forecasted, and it could destroy the entire wine grape harvest.It: Luca sapeva che le sue viti erano a rischio.En: Luca knew his vines were at risk.It: Mentre rifletteva su cosa fare, Giovanni, il suo fedele amico e collega, si avvicinò.En: As he pondered what to do, Giovanni, his loyal friend and colleague, approached.It: "Luca, dobbiamo agire rapidamente o perderemo tutto," disse Giovanni, condividendo la sua ansia.En: "Luca, we need to act quickly or we'll lose everything," said Giovanni, sharing his anxiety.It: In quel momento, Maria arrivò alla vigna.En: At that moment, Maria arrived at the vineyard.It: Maria era una specialista della viticoltura e una cara amica di Luca.En: Maria was a viticulture specialist and a dear friend of Luca.It: "Ho sentito delle previsioni," disse Maria, preoccupata, "posso aiutare con alcune tecniche moderne per salvare le tue viti."En: "I heard about the forecast," said Maria, concerned, "I can help with some modern techniques to save your vines."It: Luca era combattuto.En: Luca was torn.It: Suo nonno gli aveva insegnato metodi tradizionali per proteggere le viti, come accendere fuochi controllati per riscaldare l'aria.En: His grandfather had taught him traditional methods to protect the vines, such as lighting controlled fires to warm the air.It: Tuttavia, Luca sapeva che solo la tradizione potrebbe non essere sufficiente.En: However, Luca knew that tradition alone might not be enough.It: Maria propose una combinazione di metodi.En: Maria proposed a combination of methods.It: "Possiamo usare i vecchi metodi di tuo nonno, ma anche coprire i grappoli con teli speciali che isolano dal gelo," suggerì.En: "We can use your grandfather's old methods, but also cover the grape clusters with special blankets that insulate against frost," she suggested.It: Luca annuì, sentendo una rinnovata speranza.En: Luca nodded, feeling a renewed hope.It: "Facciamolo," disse con determinazione.En: "Let's do it," he said with determination.It: Insieme, Luca, Giovanni e Maria lavorarono tutta la notte.En: Together, Luca, Giovanni, and Maria worked through the night.It: Accesero fuochi tra le file, sorvegliandoli attentamente.En: They lit fires among the rows, watching them carefully.It: Posizionarono i teli sulle viti e controllarono che ogni pianta fosse protetta.En: They placed the blankets over the vines and checked that every plant was protected.It: Il freddo della notte sembrava interminabile.En: The night's cold seemed endless.It: Il tempo era di vitale importanza.En: Timing was of vital importance.It: Con il fiato sospeso, accolsero i primi raggi del sole che portavano calore e sicurezza.En: With bated breath, they welcomed the first rays of sunlight bringing warmth and safety.It: Alla luce del giorno, le viti sembravano ancora forti, la maggior parte dei grappoli era salva.En: In the daylight, the vines still looked strong, most of the clusters were saved.It: Con un sorriso stanco ma gratificante, Luca si voltò verso i suoi amici.En: With a tired but grateful smile, Luca turned to his friends.It: "Grazie a entrambi," disse sinceramente.En: "Thank you both," he said sincerely.It: "Mi avete aiutato a capire che tradizione e innovazione possono lavorare insieme."En: "You helped me realize that tradition and innovation can work together."It: In onore di Maria e del contributo essenziale che aveva portato, Luca organizzò una piccola festa.En: In honor of Maria and the essential contribution she had made, Luca organized a small celebration.It: Era anche l'8 marzo, e decise di celebrare la Giornata Internazionale della Donna.En: It was also March 8th, and he decided to celebrate International Women's Day.It: Invitarono amici e vicini a godersi il vino dell'anno passato, insieme a cibo locale e musica tradizionale.En: They invited friends and neighbors to enjoy the wine from the previous year, along with local food and traditional music.It: Luca osservò i suoi ospiti e il paesaggio che gli era tanto caro.En: Luca observed his guests and the landscape he held so dear.It: Capì che il futuro della sua vigna avrebbe prosperato solo abbracciando l'equilibrio tra vecchio e nuovo, tra tradizione e innovazione.En: He understood that the future of his vineyard would thrive only by embracing the balance between old and new, between tradition and innovation.It: E la collaborazione con Maria e Giovanni era il primo passo verso questo nuovo capitolo.En: And the collaboration with Maria and Giovanni was the first step toward this new chapter.It: Con questo pensiero, Luca alzò il bicchiere, grato per la terra, gli amici e il futuro che li attendeva.En: With this thought, Luca raised his glass, grateful for the land, the friends, and the future that awaited them. Vocabulary Words:the hill: la collinathe vineyard: la vignathe frost: la gelatathe harvest: il raccoltoto forecast: prevedereto destroy: distruggerethe vine: la vitethe row: la filathe anxiety: l'ansiato ponder: riflettereloyal: fedelethe technique: la tecnicathe blanket: il teloto insulate: isolareto propose: proporreto nod: annuireto protect: proteggerethe sunlight: la luce del solethe cluster: il grappoloto realize: capirethe contribution: il contributothe celebration: la festato thrive: prosperarethe landscape: il paesaggioto embrace: abbracciarethe balance: l'equilibrioto collaborate: collaborareto await: attenderegrateful: gratothe chapter: il capitolo
Wine is the lifeblood of France's southwestern Bordeaux region, employing 60,000 people both directly and indirectly. But faced with falling consumption, overproduction and the French state's "grubbing up" scheme, the wine industry is being forced to reinvent itself in order to survive. Winemakers are seeking new outlets, whether that means distilling surplus stock or developing sparkling or alcohol-free wines. FRANCE 24's Antonia Kerrigan and Fadile Bhayat report.
Fluent Fiction - Italian: Giovanna's Tuscan Quest: Secrets of Winemaking Unveiled Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2026-02-16-08-38-19-it Story Transcript:It: Giovanna guardava fuori dal finestrino del pullman.En: Giovanna looked out the window of the bus.It: Le colline toscane scorrevano come un dipinto animato.En: The Tuscan hills passed by like an animated painting.It: Era inverno, e i vigneti dormivano sotto il cielo pallido.En: It was winter, and the vineyards slept under the pale sky.It: La sua scuola aveva organizzato una gita all'azienda vinicola di Francesco, un luogo famoso per le sue tecniche tradizionali di vinificazione.En: Her school had organized a trip to Francesco's winery, a place famous for its traditional winemaking techniques.It: Appena arrivati, la cantina era un via vai di gente.En: As soon as they arrived, the winery was a bustle of people.It: Si svolgeva un vertice internazionale e le persone parlavano lingue diverse.En: An international summit was taking place, and people were speaking different languages.It: Giovanna era entusiasta ma un po' preoccupata.En: Giovanna was excited but a little worried.It: Doveva impressionare Francesco.En: She had to impress Francesco.It: Il suo progetto finale dipendeva da questo.En: Her final project depended on it.It: Lorenzo, il suo compagno, era meno interessato ai vini.En: Lorenzo, her classmate, was less interested in the wines.It: "Andiamo a vedere cosa c'è da mangiare," propose con un sorriso.En: "Let's go see what's there to eat," he proposed with a smile.It: Ma Giovanna aveva una missione.En: But Giovanna had a mission.It: Doveva parlare con Francesco.En: She had to talk to Francesco.It: Doveva vedere le botti, sentire l'odore dei mosti fermentati e prendere appunti.En: She needed to see the barrels, smell the fermenting musts, and take notes.It: Durante la visita, Francesco era molto occupato.En: During the visit, Francesco was very busy.It: Salutava i delegati, rispondeva alle domande, ma appena accennava ai segreti dei suoi vini.En: He greeted the delegates, answered questions, but only hinted at the secrets of his wines.It: Giovanna lo seguiva attentamente, sfogliando il suo quaderno.En: Giovanna followed him closely, leafing through her notebook.It: Ogni dettaglio era importante.En: Every detail was important.It: Quando la visita finì, gli studenti si prepararono a ripartire.En: When the visit ended, the students prepared to leave.It: Ma Giovanna non era soddisfatta.En: But Giovanna wasn't satisfied.It: Decise di prendere un rischio.En: She decided to take a risk.It: Sarebbe restata indietro.En: She would stay behind.It: Aspettò che Francesco finisse di chiudere per la sera.En: She waited for Francesco to finish closing for the evening.It: "Scusi," disse timidamente quando lui si avvicinò alla porta.En: "Excuse me," she said timidly when he approached the door.It: "Ho molte domande."En: "I have many questions."It: Gli mostrò le pagine fitte di note.En: She showed him the pages filled with notes.It: Francesco si fermò e sorrise.En: Francesco stopped and smiled.It: "Hai lavorato sodo," commentò, interessato.En: "You've worked hard," he commented, interested.It: "Domani mattina, prima che inizi il vertice, ti farò vedere tutto."En: "Tomorrow morning, before the summit starts, I'll show you everything."It: Giovanna non poteva crederci.En: Giovanna couldn't believe it.It: La sua determinazione era stata premiata.En: Her determination had been rewarded.It: Si sentiva viva, parte di qualcosa di più grande.En: She felt alive, part of something bigger.It: Quella notte, tornò in albergo con Lorenzo che la prendeva in giro bonariamente per il suo coraggio.En: That night, she returned to the hotel with Lorenzo teasing her good-naturedly for her bravery.It: Il giorno dopo, mentre la cantina era ancora silenziosa, Francesco guidava Giovanna attraverso le sale.En: The next day, while the winery was still silent, Francesco guided Giovanna through the halls.It: Le raccontò delle botti di rovere antiche, dei metodi tramandati nei secoli.En: He told her about the ancient oak barrels, about the methods passed down for centuries.It: Giovanna annuiva, il cuore leggero e la mente affamata di sapere.En: Giovanna nodded, her heart light and her mind hungry for knowledge.It: Alla fine della mattinata, ringraziò Francesco con un grande sorriso.En: At the end of the morning, she thanked Francesco with a big smile.It: Ora aveva tutto ciò che le serviva per il suo progetto e qualcosa di più: una fiducia nuova in se stessa.En: Now she had everything she needed for her project and something more: a new confidence in herself.It: E mentre il pullman lasciava la cantina, Giovanna guardava fuori, non più solo osservando il paesaggio, ma immaginando il suo futuro, luminoso come un sorgere del sole sulle colline toscane.En: And as the bus left the winery, Giovanna looked out, no longer just observing the landscape, but imagining her future, bright as a sunrise over the Tuscan hills. Vocabulary Words:the window: il finestrinothe vineyards: i vignetithe trip: la gitathe winery: la cantinathe summit: il verticethe barrels: le bottithe fermenting musts: i mosti fermentatinotebook: il quadernothe landscape: il paesaggiotraditional techniques: tecniche tradizionalithe delegates: i delegatithe secrets: i segretithe confidence: la fiduciaanimated painting: dipinto animatothe risk: il rischioquestion: domandathe proposal: la propostathe aroma: l'odorethe smile: il sorrisoimpressed: impressionatarewarded: premiatathe oak barrels: le botti di roverethe details: i dettaglithe project: il progettohalls: le salehungry for knowledge: affamata di saperelight heart: cuore leggerointernational: internazionaletimidly: timidamentesatisfied: soddisfatta
A shortage of contract wine making facilities has led to a new venture in the states north, opening just in time for vintage.
In this episode of Safe Space, host Francesco Lombardo welcomes Véronique Sanders, the steward of Château Haut-Bailly, a prestigious Bordeaux winery with a rich history dating back 800 years. Véronique shares about the complexity of her family's history with the business, emphasizing the emotional connection she has with the land and the importance of passion in winemaking. She discusses the responsibilities that come with being a custodian of the estate, highlighting the need to preserve its legacy for future generations while adapting to modern challenges such as climate change and shifting consumer habits. Throughout the conversation, Véronique reflects on the evolving landscape of the wine industry, particularly the changing drinking habits of younger generations. She believes that while studies suggest a decline in wine consumption among youth, personal experiences reveal a different narrative. The episode concludes with Véronique offering valuable advice to both current and future generations, urging them to stay curious and authentic while embracing their roles as stewards of their family legacies. Connect with me here: • https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-lombardo-fea-496a7966/ • https://www.facebook.com/VeritageFamilyOffice • https://www.youtube.com/@VeritageInternational • https://veritage.ca
The largest group of Mormon polygamists don’t belong to a group! I’m talking to the Ericksons: Joshua, Charlotte, & Melissa who purchased the Sister Wives home from Kody Brown and his 4 wives from the TLC channel. We’ll talk about the resources independent Mormon fundamentalists can participate in, how they got their authority to do polygamy, and talk about priesthood in their family. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/7itxEX5H8nk Don’t miss our interviews with Mormon polygamists: https://gospeltangents.com/denominations/fundamentalim/ I sat down with the Erickson family—Joshua, Melissa, and Charlotte—independent Mormon fundamentalists who purchased the Lehi, Utah home formerly owned by Kody Brown of TLC’s Sister Wives. The Ericksons discuss their journey from mainstream LDS Church membership to independent polygamy, their blog Speaking of Polygamy, and their efforts to restore biblical feasts and practices. 00:00 – Welcome to the Sister Wives Brown Hotel: The Ericksons, who now live in the home designed for polygamy discuss the unique architecture, which includes connected apartments that facilitate communal living. 08:00 – Excommunication & New Fellowship: The family shares their transition out of the LDS Church. While they were excommunicated, they describe the experience as cordial and devoid of hard feelings. They soon found the Zarahemla Foundation, a non-denominational fellowship for restoration believers. 14:00 – Defining Independent Fundamentalism: Joshua explains that fundamentalism isn’t just about polygamy; it is about preserving original restoration principles. They discuss the misconception that leaving the church means losing opportunities to serve, arguing they have found even more ways to be “anxiously engaged”. 18:00 – Restoring the Feasts: We did a deep dive into why the Ericksons celebrate ancient Israelite holidays like Passover, the Feast of Tabernacles, and Yom Kippur. Joshua provides scriptural justification from Zechariah 14 and the JST of Luke 22, arguing these feasts are for all of Israel, not just the Jews. 26:00 – Wine Making & The Word of Wisdom: The family discusses their wine-making classes. They adhere to D&C 89 and Section 27, believing wine should be “of your own make” for sacraments, rather than water. 32:00 – Mormon Legacy Ministries: Introduction to a broad coalition of independent fundamentalists who provide a “soft landing” and fellowship for those questioning mainstream changes. 36:00 – The Temple in Missouri: The Ericksons recount their participation in the independent temple built near Humansville, Missouri, describing the celestial room’s fiber-optic star field and the dedication they felt among independent groups.
Hi, It's Sam Benrubi, host of The Wine List and The Grape Nation.This isn't the end — it's a new chapter. We're continuing the show with the same curiosity, depth, and best-in-class wine guests.Please take a moment to subscribe to our new feed so you don't miss future episodes. So, for our next podcast, you can find us wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and IHeart, just hit subscribe.Thank you for listening, and I truly hope you'll come with us.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Hi, It's Sam Benrubi, host of The Wine List and The Grape Nation.After nine years and more than 300 episodes, this will be our final episode on this feed. We're leaving Heritage Radio Network and relaunching independently.This isn't the end — it's a new chapter. We're continuing the show with the same curiosity, depth, and best-in-class wine guests.Please take a moment to subscribe to our new feed so you don't miss future episodes. So, for our next podcast, you can find us wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and IHeart, just hit subscribe.Thank you for listening, and I truly hope you'll come with us.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Hi, It's Sam Benrubi, host of The Wine List and The Grape Nation.After nine years and more than 300 episodes, this will be our final episode on this feed. We're leaving Heritage Radio Network and relaunching independently.This isn't the end — it's a new chapter. We're continuing the show with the same curiosity, depth, and best-in-class wine guests.Please take a moment to subscribe to our new feed so you don't miss future episodes. So, for our next podcast, you can find us wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and IHeart, just hit subscribe.Thank you for listening, and I truly hope you'll come with us.This week on The Wine List we talk to Eric Asimov. Eric is the long-time Chief Wine Critic for the New York Times. His column “The Pour” appears online at nytimes.com and also in the print edition. He focuses, of course on the sensorial pleasures of wine, but also with a discussion of wine's culture, history, social, scientific, and environmental dimensions. It has now become a tradition that Eric joins us at the beginning of each year to discuss the past and coming wine year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, Andrea shares her unique journey to becoming the Director of Winemaking at Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Starting her career without the initial intention of entering winemaking, she found her path through roles in the laboratory, cellar, and bottling lines, developing a passion for the hands-on aspects of the craft. Andrea highlights the value of practical experience, local education, and her commitment to continual learning, which eventually led her to oversee the winemaking team at FFC. She discusses adapting to changes like the acquisition by Delicato Family Wines, her focus on mentorship and team guidance, and her philosophy of keeping winemaking rooted in the region's character. The conversation covers the structure and innovation at FFC, including their iconic wine programs, creative approaches to blending, and the development of new products such as low-alcohol, low-calorie wines. Andrea explains the logistics of vineyard sourcing across California, their strategies for maintaining quality and consistency, and the balance between digital tools and traditional whiteboards in managing production. She also offers insights into industry trends, the winery's club and visitor experience, and her role representing the brand through travel and events, always aiming to empower her team and stay connected to the evolving world of wine Resources from this Episode Francis Ford Coppolla Winery This podcast 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: innovint.us Get a demo: innovint.us/request-a-demo/ Join our free winemaking community: innovint.us/join-the-punchdown/ Check out the Fundamentals of Winemaking Made Easy video course The Inside Winemaking Podcast on iTunes Now on Spotify And Amazon Music
Jenny Murphy went to UC Davis to study forensics. While attending a job fair, she was lured into the wine business with visions of a laboratory filled with expensive, new equipment. She took a temporary position at Korbel Champagne and was bitten by the wine bug. After accepting a job at Paul Hobbs, she moved up the ranks, finally settling into the Director of Winemaking, where she was responsible for numerous 100pt wines. Jenny recently left Paul Hobbs and started her own label, Oxlee Graham, making precise Pinot Noir, Petit Verdot, and some very interesting whites. She is perhaps the most detail oriented winemaker we have ever met, her attention to the wine, barrels, tanks and even corks set her apart from the crowd. The wines are expressive and speak to the vineyard sites, from Mendocino to Santa Cruz. We can't recommend these wines highly enough, they are very small production so move fast. [Ep 394] oxleegrahamwines.com @oxleegrahamwines
Luisa Ponzi (wine grower, wine maker, vineyard lover, business owner, mama) says she's not quite sure what her "role" is these days - but it certainly has to do with wine. She says her role in the Oregon wine industry has shifted somewhat and it's done so in a natural way - where the winery used to be her key focus, she says she's now finding the vineyard is where she's pouring a lot of her heart and soul into. The Ponzi family moved from Southern California years ago to the Willamette Valley to start a vineyard, make wine, live off the land and Luisa has fond memories of being in the vines, playing in the dirt and helping Dad. Winemaking was not on her radar, but after she graduated college, Dad invited her to help with harvest (100% intentional on his part) and she says everything just clicked. She made tremendous strides in the Oregon wine industry and when she talks about winemaking, specifically, the vines her family planted years ago which are still producing grapes, you can almost feel her passion for this role she clearly loves so much. Be on the lookout for her label, "Luisa Wines" coming out spring 2026 and the collab she's currently doing with her daughter, Mia - "Drink Lerzi"!
I jumped in on a LinkedIn conversation about wine, soil, volcano's and more. Thought I would contribute to the message string. That is when I engaged Diana on the concept of terroir. But not just any terroir, but volcanic terroir. Then I realized that Diana's expertise in the realm of wine...is the soil! She is a expert in energy and geophysics! Diana Kandiglian is the kind of guest who measures her excitement in bottles, not hours. If you've ever wondered what happens when a scientist who reads rocks for a living falls in love with wine, this episode is for you. You'll learn how Diana's background as a geophysicist shapes her curiosity about soils and terroir, and why she believes the best wines surprise you, just like life itself. Through her stories, you'll uncover why Armenia's volcanic soils produce wines unlike any other, how centuries-old vines navigate climate change, and why boutique winemaking has become the soul of the country's industry. Paul and Diana peel back layers of old world tradition and new world innovation, exploring appellations, indigenous grape varieties, and the risks of chasing global trends at the expense of authenticity. You'll be puzzled—but enlightened—by the paradox of Armenia's old vines and young winemakers, and why Diana advocates for some rules to keep the magic alive. There's a fascinating discussion of soil science, climate, and grape selection: from Texan clays to French boulders, you'll understand how the land whispers its secrets into every glass. You'll hear why the future of wine in both Armenia and unexpected places like Texas and Brazil depends on resilience, sustainable practices, and stories worth telling. If your palate craves complexity and your mind seeks narratives from every region, Diana's "Pour Across America" vision will inspire you to taste wines you've never imagined—and appreciate the intersection of science and soul in every sip. By the time you finish listening, you'll carry away a deeper understanding not only of Armenian wine, but of what it means to seek adventure, surprise, and connection in your glass. Pour Across America Wine Club Website: www.pouracrossamerica.com Grgich Hills Winery Website: www.grgich.com Zulal Wines Website: www.zulalwines.com Van Ardi Website: www.vanardi.com Karas Wines Website: www.karaswines.com Messina Hof Winery Website: www.messinahof.com McPherson Cellars Website: www.mcphersoncellars.com En Vino Wine Shop (Envino) Website: www.invinowine.am Terravox Website: www.terravox.wine #winepodcast, #winetalks, #DianaKandiglian, #PaulKalemkiarian, #Armenianwine, #terroir, #geophysics, #soilscience, #volcanicwine, #winenatural, #sustainablewine, #boutiquewine, #fingerlakeswine, #pouracrossamerica, #winetasting, #climatechangewine, #winelover, #winenewworld, #wineeducation, #wineinnovation
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