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In this episode of Eat Sleep Wine Repeat, Janina is joined by nomadic winemaker Darren Smith, founder of The Finest Wines Available to Humanity. Having worked harvests across Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Portugal, Spain and the Canary Islands, Darren shares stories from some of the world's most overlooked wine regions and explains why old vines, heritage wine grapes and local traditions continue to inspire his winemaking philosophy. Together, they explore País, Negra Criolla, Quebranta and Palomino, discovering how these historic wine grapes travelled across continents and evolved into unique regional identities. Along the way, they discuss minimal intervention winemaking, tree-trained vineyards, volcanic terroir and flor-aged wines, while uncovering extraordinary wine travel destinations that rarely make the spotlight. Whether you want to learn about wine, deepen your wine education, discover lesser-known wine regions, understand heritage grape varieties or plan your next wine travel adventure, this wine podcast episode is packed with fascinating stories, expert insight and remarkable wines. Shownotes 02:45 – Darren Smith's journey into wine — from journalism and wine writing to becoming a nomadic winemaker. 04:13 – Working with Dirk Niepoort — lessons learned from one of the world's most influential winemakers. 06:35 – How Dirk Niepoort's philosophy of infusion over extraction helped shape Darren's own approach to winemaking. 07:34 – The story behind The Finest Wines Available to Humanity and the inspiration for Darren's unconventional wine brand. 08:44 – Why Chile became a defining chapter in Darren's nomadic winemaking journey. 10:59 – The biggest challenge of constantly moving between wine regions, grape varieties and winemaking cultures. 12:46 – País explained — working with Chile's historic heritage grape and why it's perfect for modern chillable red wine styles. 17:21 – Life in Bío Bío, Chile — old vines, traditional farming and one of South America's most exciting wine regions. 19:21 – Minimal intervention wines in southern Chile — preserving purity, freshness and vineyard character. 21:07 – Tasting a País from Ignacio Pino in Itata — 150-year-old vines, granite soils and remarkable precision. 21:51 – Janina's tasting notes — lavender, herbs, freshness and the delicate character of old-vine País. 24:21 – Darren Smith and Ignacio Pino Roman's 2022 Itata País £32 TFWATH.COM 25:08 – Negra Criolla explained — the Bolivian expression of Listán Prieto and its fascinating history across the Americas. 29:14 – Bolivia's tree-trained vineyards — why the Cinti Valley looks more like a jungle than a vineyard. 31:13 – País / Negra Criolla — how the same grape variety is nuanced in different regions and how terroir shapes this grapee. 32:07 – Jardín Oculto and the rise of Bolivia's most talked-about winery. 33:59 – Bolivia's extreme vineyards — some of the highest wine-growing sites in South America. 35:11 – Viñas Viejas Negra Criolla 2024 from Bolivia's Cinti Valley (Not currently available in UK) 35:35 – Ica, Peru — discovering one of South America's oldest and most important wine regions. 37:24 – Quebranta explained — Peru's signature grape variety and its connection to Listán Prieto. 38:39 – Peru's desert vineyards — Pacific influence, sandy soils and the geography that shapes these wines. 39:59 – Working with Raúl Moreno — Palomino, Jerez and the revival of unfortified expressions of the grape. 42.58 - Darren Smith and Raul Moreno's Palomino 2022 £36 TFWATH.COM 43:31 – Jerez and albariza soils — flor ageing, terroir and Darren's experience making Palomino in southern Spain. 47:30 – Further Palomino recommendations — producers to explore including Luis Pérez, Ramiro Ibáñez and Raúl Moreno. 49:04 – What Darren learned from Victoria Torres Pecis and why La Palma remains one of the most inspiring wine travel destinations in the world. 53:08 – Trás-os-Montes explained — one of Portugal's least-known wine regions and its historic field blends. 53.42 - Darren Smith and Arribas Wine Company Palhete 2024 £32 TFWATH.COM 54:51 – Tinta Gorda (Juan García) — a little-known grape variety helping define the wines of Trás-os-Montes. 57:52 – The most misunderstood wine region Darren has worked in — and why Jerez deserves far more attention than just Sherry.
Clos du Soleil, an Artisan Winery and Estate Vineyard, is celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year. Specifically, the 2025 harvest was their 20th harvest, and so these new releases were going to be talking about are all 20th anniversary! Michael Clark is the Winemaker, GM and co-owner of Clos du Soleil. Originally trained in Theoretical... The post June 13th, 2026- Clos du Soleil is celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year! appeared first on Mulligan Stew.
This week's show comes to you from the patio at 15 Park Bistro at the Watermark Beach Resort in Osoyoos. We speak with General Manager David McBean about how this South Okanagan resort continues to renew its Food, Beverage and Hospitality programs each year, seeking small but steady incremental gains. Mike Dowell, Owner of Liber Estates, and Gustav Allander, Winemaker/Vineyard Manager, stop by to taste their wines with Anthony, including the refreshing Liber Estates 2025 Sauvignon Blanc Organic and 2025 Sémillon. Visiting from the Similkameen Valley is Charlie Baessler, Managing Partner at Corcelettes Estate Winery. Charlie reports that their vineyards are buzzing with excitement, including a highly successful straw mulching program that is improving the health of their Similkameen soils. Charlie brings two wines to taste: a 2022 Traditional Method Sparkling wine made from Pinot Gris, and their 2024 Cascadia Collection-Phoenix Syrah Rosé. Also visiting from the Similkameen is Michael Clark, Managing Director & Winemaker at Clos du Soleil Winery, which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year. Michael speaks to their anniversary winemaker dinners and the wines' ageability. We taste the Fumé Blanc 2025 and the 2016 Estate Reserve Red. Michael Bartier, General Manager and Co-Owner of Bartier Bros. Vineyards, brings two wines to showcase, including his 2025 Sauvignon Blanc and 2025 Rosé. Michael extends a special invitation for all to visit their welcoming tasting room, sunny patio, courtyard and bocce court, where visitors can enjoy vineyard views.
What happens when the worlds of wine and golf collide? More than you might think. In Episode 178 of A Cork in the Road, we welcome two Virginia wine industry leaders - Stephen Barnard, the Winemaker for Keswick Vineyards, and Lance Lemon, the owner of Penny's Wine Shop and Parallax Project Wines - for a lively and unexpected conversation about the parallels between the craft of wine and the game of golf. Recorded ahead of the 4th annual Monticello Wine Trail Winemakers Golf Tournament, this episode explores how both pursuits challenge us to keep learning, embrace imperfection, connect with nature and community, and find joy in the journey. From how a glass of wine might affect your golf swing to bigger conversations around wine tourism, collaboration, and creating memorable experiences, there is no shortage of entertaining insight. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire wine Q&A with both guests that delivers plenty of laughs and reveals the personalities behind the bottles. A special thank you to the Monticello Wine Trail for sponsoring this episode and empowering us to highlight the innovative ways Virginia's wine community is bringing people together through shared experiences.For more information about all of the 2026 Wine Week festivities, you can visit www.monticellowinetrail.com/taste-of Recorded in June 2026 with generous suppport from our friends at the Monticello Wine Trail.-----------------*** Check out our MERCH SHOP to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions
We're heading back to Bells Up Winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley with winemaker and co-owner Dave Specter! In this Big Blend Radio "Getting to Know You" interview, Dave talks about turning a dead Christmas tree farm into a thriving boutique winery, the music-inspired story behind the Bells Up name, rare grapes you won't find anywhere else in the Willamette Valley — including a sparkling Seyval Blanc and a soon-to-be-released Italian variety nearly wiped out in World War II. Plus, Dave answers our 7 Getting to Know You questions — his spirit animal, bucket list, theme song, dinner party nightmares, and strong opinions about heirloom tomatoes! LINKS TO FOLLOW - Learn more about Bells Up Winery: https://bellsupwinery.com - Visit the new Big Blend Media House: https://bigblendmediahouse.com
Andre' Mack joins us to discuss his incredible journey through the world of wine and opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his career and life. He shares his initial inspiration which came from watching a television show and the “aha” moment tasting three different wines side by side. Eighteen months later he become a sommelier at The French Laundry and later run a major New York program at Per Se. If that wasn't enough he founded Maison Noir Wines in Oregon along with a design studio. We also talk about upcoming projects in the works.Andre's infectious passion for hospitality shines through as he encourages people to integrate wine into their everyday experiences rather than treat it as an elite indulgence. He emphasizes the importance of keeping your 'eyes on the prize' and doing the hard things that lead to fulfilling your dreams. Our conversation is a delightful blend of personal reflection and professional insight, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in wine, hospitality, or simply living life to the fullest.[00:00] Eyes on the Prize[00:31] Show Welcome and Sponsor[02:03] Meet Andre' Mack[02:34] Why He's in St Louis[03:08] First Wine Aha Moment[06:03] Fast Track to French Laundry[06:33] Obsessive Study and Staging[08:49] No Looking Back Mindset[10:08] New York Leap[10:53] From Sommelier to Winemaker[12:10] Discomfort and Discipline[12:59] Army Brat Roots[15:27] Training Palate and Nose[18:13] Skills from the Job[20:47] Inspiration Not Motivation[21:59] Free Time and Learning[22:14] Creative Side Hustles[22:22] Quality Time Parenting[23:17] Future Projects Reveal[24:50] Designing Wine Tools[26:05] Kids Passions Homeschooling[30:50] Bond Villain Yacht Tales[33:35] Wine As Life Condiment[37:02] Marketing Culture Relevancy[38:52] ReflectionTakeaways:Stay focused on your goals because only you know where you're headed, so keep your eyes on the prize!Sometimes, you've got to tackle the not-so-fun stuff to reach your ultimate destination, but trust me, it's worth it!Andre' Mack's journey is a wild ride; from financial advisor to sommelier at the French Laundry in just 18 months, talk about hustling!Wine is more than just a drink; it's a condiment for life, elevating every experience and making moments more memorable!If you want to develop your palate for wine, taste everything, because practice and repetition are key to mastering those flavors!Remember, to be a master of something, you have to stay a student for life, always learning and evolving!Andre Hueston MackInstagram - Andre' MackYouTube - Andre' MackFacebook - Maison Noir WinesMaison Noir WinesThis is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#andremack #maisonnoirwines #sommelier #winemaker #vintner #hospitality
6.5.26 - Ward on Wine - Winemaker Mariano Buglioni by
The Heidi Glaus Show - 6.5.26 - AI takeover; Winemaker Mariano Buglioni; Sports ww/ Brendan; and much more by
Culinary Travels - Munich // Mark Ryan McNeilly – Owner and Winemaker at Mark Ryan Winery, shares the winery’s latest releases // Celebrating Copper River Salmon Season // Laurie Fleek, General Manager of Made in Washington joins us with Father’s Day gift ideas and local maker stories // Behind the Scenes at TD & Co. – Q & A // Ryan Reiter, President of Northwest Marketplaces, helps us kick off farmers market season // We wrap up today’s show with Food for Thought: Tasty Trivia!
We welcome back Jeff Del Nin. Chief Winemaker Quails Gate (West Kelowna) For those of you perhaps just discovering the name Quails Gate Winery, please know, they are 4 generations into shaping and leading the BC wine community. Grassroots farming. Showing the way for all who followed. They won 11 medals at the 2025 Wine... The post June 6th, 2026 Jeff Del Nin – Senior Winemaker at Quails’ Gate Estate appeared first on Mulligan Stew.
On this week's episode of The Wine Makers, we speak to Vine Pair's Winemaker of the year Katy Wilson. Katy is a certified bad ass in the wine industry making wine for Anaba, Reeve, Bloodroot, and her own brand LaRue Wines. Katy grew up with agriculture in her blood, farming walnuts on her family’s farm. After double majoring in Wine & Viticulture and Agricultural Business at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, Katy got the winemaking bug traveling the world to make wines with some of the greats. Today we talk about all things carbonic maceration. Katy has been using carbonic maceration to make fresh delicious wines for her clients for years and advised our very own Danielle Langlois with her 2025 Gamay. Katy brought some really cool carbonically made Pinot, Grenache, and Sangiovese wines for us to try, some young, and spicy, and some fresh but subdued with a bit of age. Katy also brought some bottles from her personal label LaRue. We tasted a coastal, mouth watering, acid-driven 2021 Chardonnay from H. Klopp Vineyards and an elegant and aromatically expressive 2023 Cabernet from Bedrock Vineyards. The Cabernet is from her Charlie LeRue series, a project with her Sommelier husband, David Meneses, and named for her daughter. Katy's wines are elegant and nuanced, expressing a sense of place. If you have the opportunity to taste any of her wines, you won’t be disappointed. One of those opportunities will be at her yearly LaRue Summer BBQ, where you can taste through her current releases and some special library wines. Get the last few tickets for Katy's Larue Summer BBQ on 8/1 at the link below. https://www.laruewines.com/product/2026-larue-summer-bbq-at-the-farmhouse Find Katy's wines at https://www.laruewines.com, anabawines.com , https://www.reevewines.com and https://www.bloodrootwines.com . Follow her on Instagram at @laruewines. And don’t miss The Ramble, a charity event put on by Bloodroot Wines happening tonight and tomorrow 6/5-6/6. Tickets available at https://www.bloodrootramble.com
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This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Jesse Fox, Winemaker, Sequoia Grove, Napa Valley, defining the term “Complexity”. Learn more by visiting sequoiagrove.com.
A background in the culinary world is a huge plus for a winemaker, and Jesse Fox has just that. Jesse the Winemaker at Sequoia Grove Winery in Napa Valley and his time as a chef has certainly paid off. I caught up with Jesse when he visited Milwaukee just a few weeks ago while on [...]
This week's show was recorded on the patio at 15 Park Bistro, Watermark Beach Resort, Osoyoos. We chat with General Manager David McBean about the Music Series on the Patio and the newly introduced wine list at 15 Park Bistro. Christa-Lee McWatters, Vice President of Adega on 45th Estate Winery in Osoyoos, joins us to extend a special invitation to experience their Portuguese-inspired hospitality, which blends warmth, a culture of sharing, and food traditions with a modern Okanagan wine experience. We taste a 2025 Riesling and a 2022 Malbec-Merlot. Ryan McKibbon, Head Winemaker at Black Hills Estate Winery, also joins us to share the 2022 Black Hills Per Se and the recently released 2025 Rosé. Ryan invites everyone to visit the estate this summer and enjoy their Vineyard Kitchen. Leandro Nosal, Winemaker at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards on the Golden Mile Bench in Oliver, joins us to taste the 2023 Cabernet Franc and 2023 Reserve Chardonnay. Additionally, Leandro previews the upcoming annual Sunset Concert Series. Michael Kullmann, Estate Director and Winemaker at Osoyoos Larose Estate Winery, also joins us to share exciting news about his new winery, vineyard renovations, and a new wine, while we taste the 2022 Osoyoos Le Grand Vin and Petales 2022.
GUEST LINE-UP: Alex Kemp - Winemaker, Brecon EstateAustin Hope - President & Winemaker, Hope Family Wines If yo u cannot see the audio controls, listen/download the audio file here
We are less then a week away from World Verdejo Day which is happening on Friday, June 5th.I have a bunch of interviews with winemakers, winery owners and other people connected with the Verdejo grape and the Spanish white wine region of Rueda. Rueda is a two-hour drive northwest of Madrid and is perfect spot for Verdejo with its hot summers, cold winters, crazy old vines and a massive commitment to organic/biodynamic grape growing.My first interview is with winemaker Pedro Martin from Bodegas Protos.His family used to make white wine in Rueda in the 1940s. His journey has gone from learning how to make wine in Bordeaux, working at one of London's most famous wine stores, Oddbins to now making a variety of Verdejo for Bodegas Protos.
In this episode, we put a bow on Oregon Wine Month 2026 with guest Brad Ford, winemaker at Illahe Vineyards! Brad is producing amazing wines and most come with some very unique stories! Illahe is available wherever you get your wine and one of their Pinot Noirs is on the menu at Seasons by the glass!#HappyFriday! #ItsWineTime! #Cheersing Wines this episode: https://www.illahevineyards.com/our-wines2025 Illahe Vineyards Viognier ($25 at area retail stores and the winery)2024 Illahe Vineyards Estate Grüner Veltliner ($24 at area retail stores and the winery)2022 Illahe Vineyards Bon Sauvage Estate ($40 at area retail stores and the winery)2022 Illahe Vineyards 1899 Estate Pinot Noir ($85 at area retail stores and the winery)A HUGE thanks to our sponsors: Seasons of Coeur d'Alene and Pilgrim's Market!Seasons of Coeur d'Alene: Experience the best of Coeur d'Alene's culinary scene at Seasons, where farm-to-table cuisine meets elegant ambiance. Don't miss their Wine Down Wednesday where all bottled wines are 50% off! Visit https://www.seasonsofcda.com/ for more information or call 208-664-8008 Pilgrim's Market: Check out Pilgrim's Market for an expansive selection of fine wines with wine club prices EVERY day, weekly complimentary tastings and just up the street from CDA Gourmet! Visit pilgrimsmarket.com or call 208-676-9730!And of course, a HUGE thank you to Tod Hornby who wrote and recorded our official Wine Time Fridays theme music. Please visit https://todhornby.com to see what Tod is up to! The Elsom Cellars Wine Words of the Week - Basket PressA traditional, vertical wine press made of a wooden slatted cylinder and a heavy metal plate. Elsom Cellars: Thoughtfully crafted Washington wines, rooted in time, place and shared experience—made and poured in their Woodinville Winery, shared at their Perrinville Village Social Club and enjoyed wherever you gather. For more information visit https://elsomcellars.com.Mentions: Sharalynn Richardson, Melanie Krause, Cinder Wine.Some wines we've enjoyed this week: Mark Ryan Winerey The Vincent Board Track Racer Chardonnay, Araldica Albera Barbera d'Asti, Casa Santos Lima Red Blend and J. Bookwalter Conflict.Please find us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WineTimeFridays), Twitter (@VintageTweets), Instagram (@WineTimeFridays) on our YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@winetimefridays and on Threads, which is @winetimefridays. You can also “Follow” Phil on Vivino. His profile name is Phil Anderson and will probably “Follow” you back! Wine Time Fridays Rating System: Phenomenal
What is the secret to winemaking success? Well it just might be Renae Hirsch. Oozing with talent, Renae is a consultant winemaking spanning many well-known and adored labels, throughout South Australia. There is one obvious link between these brands and that is the vineyards voice. https://au.linkedin.com/in/renae-hirsch-2a9a0424 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER FOR EXCLUSIVE ARTICLES, NEWS, GIVEAWAYS AND BEHIND THE SCENES https://deepintheweeds.us6.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d33e307cf7100cf947e2e6973&id=d17d8213f5 Follow Over a Glass https://www.instagram.com/overtheglasspod Host Shanteh Wale https://www.instagram.com/shantehwale/?hl=en Executive Producer Rob Locke https://www.instagram.com/foodwinedine/ Executive Producer Anthony Huckstep https://www.instagram.com/huckstergram/ LISTEN TO OUR OTHER FOOD PODCASTS https://linktr.ee/DeepintheWeedsNetwork Over a Glass is a wine & drinks podcast with Shanteh Wale exploring the personalities, stories and landscape of the wine and drinks business. An Australian Wine and Drinks Podcast from the Deep in the Weeds Network.
This week's Okanagan Falls-themed show is filmed on the scenic patio at Nighthawk Vineyards, a boutique family farm-gate winery overlooking Green Lake. Owner Daniel Bibby joins us to discuss the family connections that sustain the winery, vineyard, and restaurant. We also explore their unique, luxurious Tent House Suites, perched high above the vineyard, offering views of the entire property. Together with Daniel, a former high-end hotelier, we taste the newly released Nighthawk 2025 Pinot Noir Rosé and the 2025 Viognier, as he explains how his dream has become reality. The episode also features Evan Saunders, Winemaker, and Sheila Whittaker, Marketing and Sales Manager, from Blasted Church Vineyards near Skaha Bench in the Okanagan Falls region. Evan highlights standout wines from the 2025 vintage, including Sauvignon Blanc and Blaufränkisch Rosé. Benoit Gauthier, COO and Director of Winemaking & Viticulture at Noble Ridge Winery, discusses a new vintage, label, and wine series. We sample the 2019 Noble Ridge The One, a sparkling wine with 77% Chardonnay and 23% Pinot Noir, crafted using the traditional method, and the 2025 Noble Ridge Unoaked Chardonnay. From Kaledan, Rob Hammersley, owner and winemaker at Black Market Wine Co., joins us to taste two wines from the Estate Series: the 2025 Bacchus and the 2021 Estate Series Merlot. Rob also invites guests to upcoming events, including their Wine Blending Seminars, vineyard concerts, and Friday Night Flights.
Discover why California Chardonnay is one of the most talked-about wines in the world—and why it shouldn't be so polarizing. In this episode of The Wine CEO Podcast, I sit down with Richie Allen of Rombauer Vineyards to break down what truly makes great wine: the right grapes grown in the right place. Richie shares his winemaking philosophy around typicity of region, explaining why understanding where grapes are grown is the key to producing exceptional wines. We also dive into the story behind Rombauer's iconic Carneros Chardonnay, explore why California Chardonnay has become so polarizing (and why it deserves a second chance!), and discuss how fear of failure shaped Richie's early career—and ultimately helped him succeed. Whether you're a seasoned wine lover or just getting started, this episode will help you better understand California wine, Chardonnay styles, and how to confidently choose wines you'll love.
Curious about how a world-renowned Bordeaux house is shaping the future of Chinese wine? In this episode, we dive into the journey of Charles Treutenaere, the driving force behind Domaine de Long Dai, DBR Lafite's ambitious estate in Shandong, China.Together, we explore how he navigates cultural bridges, builds a winery from the ground up, and adapts French expertise to a unique Chinese terroir. We unpack the challenges of earning recognition for Chinese fine wines, the evolution of the local market, and the delicate balance between tradition and innovation.From vineyard practices to consumer education, this conversation reveals what it truly takes to craft world-class wines in an emerging region. And why the story of Long Dai is only just beginning.▬▬
This week's show comes to you from the Penticton Visitors Centre. Our guests include Kevin Pearce, Executive Director of Visit Penticton, who shares everything you need to know about upcoming events in Penticton this spring and summer. Matthew Mikulic, Winemaker and Co-owner of Three Sisters Winery, talks about celebrating ten years of production on the Naramata Bench. Mireille Sauve, Director at Wine Umbrella, representing the BC Wine Information Centre, and Denice Hagerman, Wine Club Administrator at the BC Wine Information Centre, discuss the 20th anniversary of this amazing wine store in downtown Penticton. Kelsey Zimmerman, the Tasting Room Manager at Township 7, joins us to talk about sabering sparkling wine bottles and then serving bubbles with potato chips. Finally, Natasha Sadowy, Admin & Marketing Coordinator at the Naramata Bench Wineries Association, and Kathy Malone, Winemaker at Hillside Winery and Board Member at Naramata Bench Wines, stop by the Visitors Centre to talk about the tiny, perfect wine region that clings to the eastern shore of Lake Okanagan north of Penticton.
Campania winemaker Jake Sheedy is flying the flag for the Coal River Valley as another finalist in the Young Gun of Wine Award.
There's a strong Tasmanian contingent for the 20th annual Young Gun of Wine Awards
In this episode, we speak with James Pennefather, CEO of Chapel Down, following the release of strong results and a positive outlook for the year ahead.Chapel Down is England's leading winemaker and the most recognised English wine brand, producing award-winning sparkling and still wines from over 1,000 acres of vineyards in Kent. This is around 9% of the UK's total production.There was a lot to like in 2025's financial performance, with sales rising 19% to £19.4m, driving a 79% increase in adjusted EBITDA (including fair value adjustment to biological produce).James walks us through the drivers of top-line momentum, the dynamics of the shift in gross margin, and the path back to margin expansion. We dig into the balance sheet and when shareholders should expect to see improving cash conversion and sustainable free cash flow.On the commercial side, James discusses the rapid growth in off-trade sales, the protection of premium positioning as supermarket distribution scales, and the increasing contribution from the company's Traditional Method Sparkling (TMS) wines.With marketing investment stepping up, we explore the expected payback and the principal drivers underpinning Chapel Down's ambition for sustained double-digit growth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 176 takes us live to The Oenophile Institute for an engaging audience conversation with winemaker Matt Taylor, a third-generation Sonoma County native whose thoughtful approach to farming and winemaking has made him one of California's most compelling voices in small-production wine. Known for crafting wines across several labels and portfolios, Matt shares how his deep connection to the Sonoma Coast AVA continues to shape his philosophy in the cellar that is rooted in biodynamic farming, minimal intervention, and allowing the vineyard to speak for itself as naturally as possible. Throughout the conversation, we explore Matt's diverse winemaking journey, from harvests and experiences in Argentina, Bordeaux, and New Zealand, to the unique energy he brings back home to California. We also uncover fascinating Napa Valley history connected to his Ink Grade project on Howell Mountain while discussing mountain viticulture, heritage vineyards, and the evolving identity of California wine. And because no live audience episode is complete without a few surprises, the night also ventures into the world of wine and hip hop pairings thanks to a special audience guest who specializes in connecting music, culture, and wine in unexpected ways. From farming philosophies to global winemaking experiences to soundtrack-worthy pairings, this episode is a vibrant look at the people, stories, and creativity shaping modern California wine.Recorded April 16, 2026 with a live audience at The Oenophile Institute in Smyrna, GA-----------------*** Check out our MERCH SHOP to directly support the show, and visit www.acorkintheroad.com for all upcoming events and media contributions
Sal de la Cruz from Ludor Wines joins Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell in the studio on California Wine Country today. This is the first time on the show for Sal and for the winery. All of the wines that Sal has brought come from the Weiler vineyard in the Sonoma Valley AVA. They begin by tasting a red wine blend called Yuma, named after their beloved nine-year-old dog, who is on the label. It’s a very casual wine, delicious and fruity. Dan says that this is the modern era of red wine. “Drink it soon,” but it is authentic to the fruit. It is similar to Beaujolais but with better grapes. The Merlot character is right up front, and it has beautiful other nuances of black fruit. It is in a clear bottle. They wanted to show the color and break the boundaries of a traditionally dark glass. Since it isn’t meant for long aging, the clear glass is fine. It was just bottled three months ago. This is a great picnic wine, declares Daedalus. It got no wood, all made in stainless steel and unfiltered. “It feels like the French countryside,” says Daedalus and Dan agrees. The Ludor Wines 2024 Merlot Next they taste the 2024 Merlot. “This is serious stuff,” says Dan. Their vineyard has two kinds of soil, a clay loam and a sandy rocky soil. They planted it in the mid-’90s and they have been farming it for the last 25 years. Sal has been working there since he was a kid. They know the land very well. Sal says they do all the touches on all of their wines, meaning they farm it, they make it and they bottle it. Then they try to educate people about it. The name Ludor comes from his mother’s great grandmother. The family has a history in farming, mostly corn, beans and squash. (Those are the “three sisters” of native American agriculture.) ***** CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference! ***** The Ludor Wines 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon The next wine to taste is a 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon from the same property, the Weiler vineyard in the Sonoma Valley AVA. The vineyard is on the valley floor. It spent about 17 months in French oak before bottling. Dan says you can tell it was made classically and will age well. He suggests leaving a wine open for a few hours and if it improves, that means it will also improve with some years in the bottle. Five more years would be great for this wine but at least you should aerate it with a decanter. Cabernet Sauvignon is quite tannic so have a steak or something with it. About 30 years ago Napa and Sonoma wineries would release Cabernets for sale when they were roughly four and a half years old. Before tasting the fourth wine today, at minute 16, listen to Daedalus riff on the Yuma wine, for 20 seconds it’s a brainstorm the captures and expresses that wine’s character with just words. The Ludor Wines 2024 Cabernet Franc Sal explains how they pay careful attention to the ripening of this wine. They have to sacrifice some grapes, since a big crop load doesn’t produce the ripening that they want. It responds to air faster than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Thrilled to interview Nate Weis the General Manager and Senior Winemaker for Beaulieu Vineyard, one of the most important/historic wineries in Napa Valley.
A winemaker with 90+ scores and even a perfect 100 set out to solve a simple problem: how to enjoy one great glass of wine without opening a whole bottle. Preston Thomas shares how Tirage brings premium wine into cans without sacrificing quality. The wines come from Lake and Sonoma counties and land at 12% ABV, built for real-life moments.The episode explores:His path from Tennessee to professional winemakingWhy canned wine still faces resistanceHow Tirage prioritizes quality before packagingBuilding wine for convenience, sustainability, and everyday useFeatured wines include White Cap (sparkling white blend) and Still Chill (chillable red blend), both designed to fit into real life without overthinking it.Learn More About Tirage WineWebsitehttps://www.tiragewine.com/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/tiragewine/Support the show and help keep the wine flowing!Buy us a glass!https://buymeacoffee.com/cheers3Connect with the show. We would love to hear from you!Stop Wasting Your Wine on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/stopwastingyourwine/Stop Wasting Your Wine on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@StopWastingYourWineThe Stop Wasting Your Wine Websitehttps://stopwastingyourwine.com/Chapters00:00 - Intro and Meet Preston Thomas02:00 - Canned Wine Reputation and First Impressions03:30 - Preston's Wine Journey and Origin Story11:30 - The Idea Behind Tirage Wines13:30 - Breaking the Stigma of Canned Wine15:00 - Wine for the Life You Actually Live25:00 - White Cap Tasting and Review39:30 - Still Chill Red Tasting and Review48:30 - Review and Final Thoughts52:30 - Pick Your Poison Game
This week on our Vino Lingo segment we feature Ed Filice, Winemaker, JL Wood, Monteray & Napa Valley, defining the term “Elevage”, Learn more by visiting jlwoodwine.com
JL Wood dives deeper into Chardonnay than any other winery I’ve ever spoken to. Ed Filice is the Winemaker at JL Wood and we met up at the Napa Wine Company to talk about his experiences. These white wines are as varied as can be and well worth the taste. But your question might be, [...]
Step into the world of Burgundy with us as we meet Antonin Pillot, the rising force behind his family's historic estate in Chassagne-Montrachet.In this episode, we explore his journey from business studies abroad to taking over winemaking at the domain, driven by passion and a deep sense of responsibility.We dive into how he's reshaping tradition: embracing organic farming, experimenting with indigenous yeasts, and adapting to climate change. Along the way, we discuss the unique terroirs of Chassagne-Montrachet, the challenge of working with family, and the realities of building a modern vision in a timeless region.Join us as we uncover Antonin's philosophy, his ambitions, and what the future of Burgundy might look like through the eyes of a new generation.▬▬
Erica Stancliff, Deodora Estate Vineyards winemaker, joins Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell on California Wine Country. This is her fifth time as a guest on the show. Her very first time was this episode on February 20, 2019 and her last time was May 23, 2025 with Doug Mryglod and Judy Phillips, the owners of Deodora Estate Vineyards. The Artemis II crew just splashed down off the coast of San Diego just this minute, as the show is being recorded live, so we toast with some great Riesling. The wine they are tasting is the 2019 made by her friend Ashley Holland who was the first winemaker at Deodora, and who taught her that Riesling from Petaluma Gap could be gorgeous, aromatic, age-worthy and not sweet. Dan explains that you have to pick the fruit early enough to get the structure that will age well. The 2023 vintage represents Ashley passing the torch to Erica, who took over as winemaker that year at Deodora. 2023 was a cold year. 2023 was very cold on the Sonoma Coast, which made it a great vintage. Erica explains that the colder growing season is longer and that favors greater phenolic ripeness. Things need time to develop and if it is not so hot that you have to pick to keep the sugars from taking over, you have a chance for more interesting flavors. As the sugar comes in with ripeness, the acid drops. You don’t want too much of either one. But the phenolic compounds will provide flavors that may fall into balance. You can add a small amount of water to manage the alcohol content at the right time. Erica compares that to putting a little bit of water in the sauce while you’re cooking it. There are other additives in the winemaker’s toolkit, like yeast, which some winemakers need, especially in a wet year. They actually use grape skins to feed the yeast. After the two Rieslings, they will taste the 2018 early cask Pinot Noir. Erica was president of the Petaluma Gap wine growers’ alliance for a few years. In Petaluma Gap it is all about the wind. Dan explains that the Pacific Ocean has a wall of cold that is different than the Atlantic. The Petaluma Gap’s winds are persistent and not as strong as other places where geologic features increase the wind. The wind is regular but slow enough. Primordial Buds David Ramey believes that the Carneros is cool because of this same wind. Erica agrees. Every year, there are two vintages on the vines, the current year and the primordial buds of the next vintage. This causes some overlap in the influence of vintage years. Dan tells a story from the book Wine and War that he read years ago. In 1939 the wine was very poor but then the Germans demanded all the wine so they sent the swill. Erica knows the story, they hid all the good wine and the caves under Dijon are still there. They grow 5 clones of Pinot Noir. She compares clones to different color coats of the same breed of dog. They produce two Pinots, one they call early cask and another late cask. One is aged in wood for about 10 months. A late cask gets 14-16 months in the barrel. They can decide which direction the wines from the same vineyard can take. This late cask Pinot is also called over-vintage. Erica explains why crystal glasses raise the aromatics, more than glass. The surface of crystal is more jagged, and this is believed to raise more aromatics when you swirl the wine in the glass. They are tasting the 2018 early cask Pinot Noir. Daedalus suggests it is like opening a cigar box and finding a blood orange with cloves stuck in it.
Tercero Wines, Santa Barbara Wine Country, Rhone Rangers, Foot Stomping and interview w Larry Tercero, owner & winemaker, Tercero Wines. 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 & Asia 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 Larry Schaffer, Tercero Wines.
Sometimes we talk to winemakers who are part of big wineries and big production facilities. Other times we talk to winemakers like Fausto who are, truly, deeply part of the land and the culture and the area where they are from. Fausto is in the Piedmont area of Italy, but he does not make the typical Nebbiolo based wines. He focuses on natural wines, biodynamic farming, and low intervention. The result of this is, as he says, that every wine has a part of him in it. Because he, the wine, and the land are intertwined in this agricultural, scientific, and artistic endeavor. Poderi Cellario is a family-based business. While they sell their wines in many different markets, including the United States, they focus on small, artisanal batches of wines, constant experimentation, and listening to the land. This is winemaking that feels new, but is actually the way wine has been made for thousands of years. We think you will love our conversion with Fausto and his son Simone. Send us a Text Message and we'll respond in our next episode!Contact The Wine Pair Podcast - we'd love to hear from you!Visit our website, leave a review, and reach out to us: https://thewinepairpodcast.com/Follow and DM us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinepairpodcast/Send us an email: joe@thewinepairpodcast.com
Hosted by David and Nycci Nellis. On today's show: · 2026 is the 50th Anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, where – for the first time – two Napa Valley American wines bested French wines in a blind tasting. That huge, seismic moment in wine is part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebration, and Stephen Velasquez, curator of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History's Division of Home and Community Life, joins us with all the celebratory details, including the upcoming 2026 Winemaker's Dinner; · Since the Judgment of Paris is part of today's conversation, it made sense to also invite Claudia Chamberlain to join us. She's the U.S. general manager for Berry Bros. & Rudd. Founded in 1698, Berry Bros. & Rudd is the oldest wine and spirits merchant in the United Kingdom and is still family-owned; · Our buddy, Jarrad Silver, chef/owner of Silver and Sons BBQ in Bethesda, is in with big news -- unless you're a lamb. The Lamb Jam is back as a month-long dine-around in April, where chefs across the country will feature American lamb dishes under $30 and diners are encouraged to explore and vote for their favorites; · Kenia Euceda Canales, Neighborhood Restaurant Group coffee director, ensures that the non-alcoholic program across the group is a cut above the rest. She's got lots of caffeinated tastes and talk to share, but especially about the one she manages, NRG's specialty coffee shop, CAMEO in The Roost on Capitol Hill.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Join Master Sommelier David Reuss as he chats with La Crema winemaker, Craig McAllister on their newest addition to La Crema - low-calorie Pinot Noir!
Meet a true legend of winemaking. Ever heard of Opus One? How about Château Mouton Rothschild? Pascal Marty, owner and winemaker of Viña Marty in Chile, has a hand in those truly groundbreaking and world-renowned wines and wineries. Beyond that, Pascal is just a delightful, warm, and transparent person. A true pleasure to get to know. In our conversation, we talk about how an experience in a winery as a young man changed the trajectory of his whole life. We also talk about how his stubborn streak led him to not only study enology in Bordeaux, but fly to Napa to do his capstone project despite his professors' incredulity at his choice because, in the 1980's, no great French winemakers thought that was a good use of time. Pascal has always a been a trailblazer and an adventurer, making some of the greatest wines in the world in France, California, and for more than 20 years now, Chile. We have done some great interviews with winemakers, but this may be the one that us truly honored and humbled. You will love to get to know Pascal.Send us a Text Message and we'll respond in our next episode!Contact The Wine Pair Podcast - we'd love to hear from you!Visit our website, leave a review, and reach out to us: https://thewinepairpodcast.com/Follow and DM us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinepairpodcast/Send us an email: joe@thewinepairpodcast.com
Dan and Ross. Winemaker Ross Cobb is our guest again today on California Wine Country with Dan Berger and Daedalus Howell. He is the founder of Cobb Wines. Ross was on the show once before, on this episode in January of 2025. Daedalus Howell remembers meeting Ross Cobb maybe 30 years ago, when they were both at the beginning of their careers. They begin by tasting a Chardonnay from 2023, which Dan describes as a nice cool vintage. The vineyard is in the eastern Sonoma County in the Sebastopol area. It was planted in the late 1990s. He got some Pinot Noir from the new owner, and he also got some Chardonnay. He considers this to be one of the best Chardonnay vineyards around. The vines are mature, it gets 10% new oak, full malolactic fermentation, 22 months in barrel, and it's not overly done. Dan Berger gives credit to all of those techniques, which gives it a combination or richness and tartness. The texture is rich and the aftertaste is delicate. It is only 12.5% ABV so it won't knock you over. CWC is brought to you by Deodora Estate Vineyards. Visit Deodora to discover 72 acres in the Petaluma Gap that are producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sip the difference! Ross describes how his parents planted the vineyard in 1988-1989. He attended UC Santa Cruz where he designed his own program focussed on the living soil. Then he met all of his neighbors who had vineyards, names like Dehlinger and Rocchioli. Then he worked for Ferrari-Carano, Williams-Selyem and then for Flowers. Next they taste a Riesling. Ross and Dan Berger both get their Riesling grapes from Cole Ranch. Both of them make it dry and Dan credits Ross for a great product aimed at Riesling purists – like Dan. After the break they taste the Pinot Noirs. Ross Cobb says the 2023 Pinot Noir from Emmaline Ann Vineyard was his transformational vintage. He recalls the 2006 crop when he picked at 21.9 Brix. At first he was afraid that he had made a bad decision. But it turned out well, because of the secondary chestnut and spicy aromas that emerged. Dan Berger says 2006 was the greatest age-worthy vintage Sonoma County history. “This is astounding!” says Dan. He likes it because it was a cool year. Dan says Ross did well to pick early because the problem with a lot of wine is over-ripeness. Dan observes that this year’s crop is dealing with 90-degree daytime highs in March. He also thinks that we will also have some cooler weather in the next month. Dan says the best weather report in the world comes rerom Abacela Winery. Greg Jones who has a PhD in climate science, publishes excellent meteorological reports on the western US. His reports are free online. Look for the Current Weather and Climate Report on this page. The last tasting is the 2021 Doc’s Ranch Vineyard. It is another representation of Sonoma Coast style. They have 22 acres of vines at high altitude. It is risky, and can yield as little as half a ton per acre. Ross calls it a good place for ripening in September and October. This vintage was picked in late October.
In this special International Women's Day 2026 episode of The Wine CEO, I sit down with Namratha Stanley — French author, wine merchant, and founder of the Bordeaux wine brand Solicantus — to share one of the most powerful stories I've heard in the wine world. After surviving more than a decade in an abusive marriage in India, Namratha made the courageous decision to leave everything behind and rebuild her life. In 2017, she moved to Bordeaux, France, where she reinvented herself in the heart of one of the world's most famous wine regions. Today, she is a wine entrepreneur, brand owner, and author of the memoir Vineyard Melody — a deeply personal story of resilience, reinvention, and finding freedom through wine. In this episode, we discuss:
On this episode of TLC: Tend Life Community, we sit down with Washington winemaker Amy Garofano of A. Garofani Wines and JM Cellars to talk about her unexpected journey from pharmacy to the wine world. Amy shares how her background as a pharmacist shaped her approach to winemaking, the story behind launching her own label, and what it felt like bottling her first vintage under A. Garofani Wines. We also dive into Summer Friends, the collaborative wine project she created with Tommy Bigalow that blends great wine with a mission to give back by creating opportunities for international wine workers. Along the way we talk about women in the wine industry, balancing multiple roles in a demanding craft, and how community, mentorship, and collaboration continue to shape Amy's work as a winemaker and educator. As always, we wrap things up with a Hidden Gem from Amy and Troy brings us the Real Estate Round Up with insights on what's happening in the local housing market. If you love Washington wine, stories about entrepreneurship, or behind-the-scenes insight into the craft of winemaking, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
An auction lot of six dusty cycling-themed bottles of wine from the 80s provides the inspiration behind Velo Vino, a new podcast mini-series that explores some tales from the pro peloton's history through rosé-tinted spectacles.Cycling journalists Felix Lowe and Graham Willgoss invite you to take a seat at the table with professional wine buff Chris Maybin as they uncork these aged bottles and sift through the stories and sentiments behind the sediment.In our second episode, our intrepid trio sample a 42-year-old wine that even its producer fears will “taste like vinegar” now. That producer is none other than the last French winner of the Vuelta a España, Éric Caritoux, whose unlikely triumph in 1984 is discussed alongside a Côtes de Ventoux made from the grapes grown on his farm in Provence the previous summer.Caritoux's against-all-odds overall victory over Spanish favourite Alberto Fernández remains the slenderest winning margin in Grand Tour history at just six seconds – but has the Frenchman's wine stood the test of time?As a hedge, special guest Pascal Gabriel provides Velo Vino with a recent bottle of Cuvée Caritoux while discussing the concept behind his latest album, 1:46.43 – The Ventoux Trilogy, created as his alter ego Stubbleman using the biometric data from an ascent of the legendary climb. All four episodes of Velo Vino are brought to you in association with Rouleur magazine and Nyetimber, the English sparkling wine producer and proud backer of British Cycling. Slip into the sipstream of Felix, Graham and Chris as they raise a glass to some Grand Tour tannins of yesteryear.Produced by Matthew Vines.Closing song – An Everlasting Universe of Things – by Stubbleman and taken with permission from the album 1:46.43 – The Ventoux Trilogy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
KCBS Radio's Foodie Chap Liam Mayclem speaks with Winemaker Ryan Kanoth from Joseph Phelps Winery in St. Helena, California. Ryan and Liam talk about the special history of Insignia as the first blend of its kind.
A home winemaker & inventor, Thursday night parties, Liquid Jazz, a rocking decanter and interview with Michael Fors. 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 EMEA & Asia sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in CA wine, chatting along the way with the experts who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Michael Fors, home winemaker & inventor of Liquid Jazz.
From cleaning kennels to crafting Sonoma Cabernet, Chris Louton's path to winemaking wasn't planned. A UC Davis class changed everything. Now at St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, he's shaping wines that stay balanced, affordable, and true to place.Chris shares how he went from veterinary ambitions to overseeing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Bordeaux varietals in Sonoma County. We talk vintage differences, protecting quality at scale, and why he refuses to “make wine for trends.”We taste the 2023 St. Francis Merlot and 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon (both around $15–$16, 14.8% and 14.5% ABV). Chris breaks down vineyard strategy, blending across Sonoma County, and how they maintain control from vine to bottle.If you care about value wine done right, this one's for you.Subscribe for weekly wine conversations.Learn More About the St. Francishttps://www.stfranciswinery.com/Support the show and help keep the wine flowing!Buy us a glass!https://buymeacoffee.com/cheers3Connect with the show. We would love to hear from you!Stop Wasting Your Wine on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/stopwastingyourwine/Stop Wasting Your Wine on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@StopWastingYourWineThe Stop Wasting Your Wine Websitehttps://stopwastingyourwine.com/Chapters00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction00:55 – From Veterinary Medicine to Winemaking05:14 – Luxury Cabernet & Early Career07:42 – Joining St. Francis & Carrying the Legacy10:08 – Making Wine for a Wide Audience15:07 – What St. Francis Wines Aim to Deliver18:15 – Protecting Quality at Scale22:06 – 2023 Merlot Breakdown34:36 – 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Breakdown42:45 – Review & Ratings47:25 – Pinot or Chardonnay Game50:13 – Final Thoughts + Where to Find St. Francis
TrulySignificant.com presents GO TEXAN honoring Guy Stout at the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association. Guy has been in the wine industry for over 40 years holding every conceivable position from grape growing, making wine, working in restauranteur, master sommelier, CEO and mentor to many.Enjoy this odyssey that will inform, entertain, and illuminate.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/success-made-to-last-legends--4302039/support.
The Pope Valley, a Historic winery, the Old West, Untamed & Isolated and interview w Michael Coode, GM & Winemaker of the Pope Valley Winery in the Napa Valley. ON THE ROAD with MR CA WINE is about California's cool, aspirational lifestyle and awesome wines hosted by Chuck Cramer, a California native, living in London and is the Director of EMEA & Asian sales & marketing, Terlato Wines. This is a wine journey covering the hottest topics in CA wine, chatting along the way with the experts who make it all happen. This week's episode includes an interview with Michael Coode, GM & Winemaker of the Pope Valley Winery.
Wine isn't often the drink of choice in Chinese restaurants, yet the country's immigrants played a key role in planting Northern California vineyards and building wineries after the Gold Rush. Now, a Chinese American winemaker is bringing a taste of that history — along with her Sonoma and Napa wines — to Chinatown restaurants in the Bay Area and beyond. Reporter: Tina Caputo California State University has reached a legal settlement with its faculty union over the sharing of faculty information with federal authorities. Reporter: Juan Carlos Lara, KQED After over a decade of planning, and years of construction, Butte County finally has a new jail. Reporter: Claudia Brancart, North State Public Radio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices