On The Wine Road Podcast artwork

On The Wine Road Podcast

164 episodes - English - Latest episode: 20 days ago - ★★★★★ - 17 ratings

Hear about winemakers and owners, as well as brewers, distillers, chefs, trends and more in Napa, Sonoma, and across the globe. I visit my guests in person to delve deep into their stories.

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Episodes

Patrick Davis, SIP - Songwriters in Paradise 2024

April 07, 2024 19:31 - 19 minutes - 19.8 MB

Patrick Davis is returning to Northern California for SIP - Songwriters in Paradise 2024. You may have caught him on my podcast last year, and it’s a real pleasure to catch up with him again to chat about Songwriters in Paradise 2024 in Napa, very soon April 18th-21st, then Healdsburg, Sonoma County  July 23rd – 28 at special wineries in each region. Patrick Davis is a talented performer. He's a prolific writer, travels quite a bit, and likes to be so surrounded by his friends. Together th...

National Women in Wine Day - Marimar Torres of Marimar Estates

March 28, 2024 07:05 - 32 minutes - 31.6 MB

This month we celebrated Women’s History, International Women’s Day was March 8th, and this past Monday, the 25th, it was National Women in Wine Day in the U.S.  So, appropriately, my guest for this episode is an accomplished woman in wine, who also happens to be an international woman. Marimar Torres is a member of Familia Torres, a historic winemaking family in Spain’s Catalonia region. She loves living in California, especially Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley, where she presides ove...

Delving Deep into Details with Joe Nielsen of Ram’s Gate Winery

March 01, 2024 18:26 - 32 minutes - 30.6 MB

In my 11 years in and around the wine industry, people have often asked me about barrels, yet related to the surface details, like whether a winery uses French oak, or 100% new oak, how many months does the wine age in oak, etcetera. Well, there are so many other details involved with barrel selection and how they can be used, it will make your head spin! So, if your head hasn’t been spun in a while, listen in to my conversation with Joe Nielsen. He’s as smart as he is chill, which allows hi...

The Avant-Garde Aviana Wines

February 04, 2024 18:06 - 30 minutes - 30 MB

  This brand is what you get when you combine the 4th generation of a historic wine brand (Charles Krug Winery, first established in 1862), with an off-shoot winery that is predominantly owned by women who exhibit the courage and grace of the family’s immigrant matriarch (C Mondavi & Family), and a passion to support nonprofit causes (Equality Now), and blend it all into a wine brand that is enhanced with innovative augmented reality technology.  What's more, the juice is sourced from thr...

Null Wines, A New Take on N/A Wine Varietals

December 08, 2023 01:34 - 28 minutes - 28 MB

As we find ourselves in the period of holiday parties you may be considering how much alcohol you’re consuming. We’re also approaching a month that can be referred to as Dry January, which is supported by an international campaign that promotes a self-imposed break from alcohol. Does that mean wine lovers have to put aside their beloved nectar of the Gods? Not necessarily. A good option will be discussed on today’s episode that takes me into San Francisco. My guest is Catherine Diao, wine lo...

The Magical Bhutan Wine Company (Classic)

November 28, 2023 01:52 - 42 minutes - 40.3 MB

This Classic episode was recorded in September of 2021 for my radio show, then uploaded as a podcast a year later. If you missed it the first time around, I know you'll enjoy it this time. The Kingdom of Bhutan has been referred to as "magical" for quite some time. So I suppose it should come as no surprise that the introduction of vineyards, while in the shadow of the Himalayas, occurred unexpectedly. And like a centuries-old fable, the hero in this tale possessed an unwitting innocence. ...

Jennifer Brown of BACA

October 14, 2023 15:14 - 28 minutes - 28.1 MB

In this episode you’ll meet Jennifer Brown of Napa Valley’s Hall Family. They are more or less based in three counties, they source from a good number of appellations across California, and they have three brands that I’ll touch upon, but we’ll focus on BACA Wines. BACA only produces Zinfandel, which I found interesting knowing that Jennifer’s family has gained notoriety for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. Jennifer and I met in 2020 at the Zinfandel Advocates and Producers ...

Old Vines and Marchelle Wines

September 26, 2023 20:19 - 18 minutes - 18.6 MB

On this episode, you’ll hear about wine that has been nurtured by Mother Nature for over 100 years. Winemaker and ampelographer Greg La Follette has been crafting wine from old vines for so long that he knows of their place in history and other names they’ve had throughout the centuries.   His latest wine project is Marchelle Wines. I’ll chat with Greg about the gnarly old vines and the diverse geology of the Russian River Valley’s six Neighborhoods. You’ll also hear from Greg’s partner wi...

The Smuggler, J.F.C. (Classic)

September 08, 2023 07:04 - 39 minutes - 93.1 MB

This episode was originally posted in 2019 - Now a guy who calls himself John Fucking Caldwell is likely to be brash...probably a risk taker, and likely one of a kind. In John's case, yes, he could be described by each of those descriptors, as well as pleasant, inventive, philanthropic, and one who can make the best of a situation. So it may come as no surprise that he's the kind of person who would consider, and accomplish, smuggling grapevines into the U.S. And that's just half of the st...

Lombardi Wines - Hilinski's Hope

August 08, 2023 17:25 - 26 minutes - 26.3 MB

Like many people in Northern California, Tony Lombardi's ancestors emigrated from Italy. He grew up in the area and his friends are the Who's Who of the wine industry. His background in PR and marketing led him to join his pals who founded one of the coveted cult brands of the early 2000s, Kosta Browne. That position paid off in spades as you'll hear in this interview, ultimately leading KB winemaker, Cabell Coursey to join Tony at Lombardi Wines. Tony shares the story of his family's influe...

Family Winemakers of CA - Tasting Events and Advocacy

July 21, 2023 15:24 - 22 minutes - 22.2 MB

My guest is Jessica Venezia, the Director of Administration and Marketing for FWC. Not only does Family Winemakers of California hold tasting events to highlight and support their member wineries, but the organization also lobbies for legislative action on behalf of the wine industry, focusing on the smaller production facilities. Jessica delves deeper into the details. This podcast is for wine lovers and fledgling wineries who are looking for support to generate growth, awareness, and sal...

The Story of Napa's Frog's Leap Winery - Classic

July 14, 2023 17:44 - 48 minutes - 46.1 MB

Originally posted in December 2020, I thought I'd share this story of Frog's Leap Winery once again in case you missed it. John Williams has had quite a career. The story of Frog's Leap didn't begin until after John worked with Napa Valley icon Warren Winiarski at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. He helped launch Glenora Wine Cellars in the Finger Lakes region. Afterward, he returned to Napa Valley as a winemaker for the esteemed Spring Mountain Vineyard. All this, before and during the founding ...

The Unexpected Home and Winery in Tuscany

June 24, 2023 15:45 - 25 minutes - 24.6 MB

Today's story features a fantasy come true story that follows the "rags to riches" life of an American with an Italian heritage. My guest is Gudrun Cuillo, an Austrian woman who was working for an opera company when she met Robert, the American. The incredible part of the story is not that they ended up in Tuscany, but had the good fortune to turn their newly purchased property into a winery that sits near a long abandoned medieval village. What they were able to do with each property is rem...

Making Burgundian Wine in Sonoma County with Small Vines

June 08, 2023 18:22 - 22 minutes - 22.4 MB

If you’re Paul Sloan, a restaurant sommelier and wine enthusiast, and you get so blown away by a 17-year-old world-renowned Burgundy Pinot Noir you want to replicate that style yourself, how do you achieve that goal if you don’t own a vineyard and you’re not a winemaker? On today's episode, you’ll hear the fascinating story of how Paul and his wife Kathryn made it happen without buying grapes and hiring a winemaker. I will say, the purchase of an unusual European tractor was part of the pro...

Join Me For A Sojourn

May 24, 2023 07:05 - 38 minutes - 37.2 MB

My destination on the wine road today is Sojourn Cellars in the town of Sonoma, CA. My guest is the Director of Winemaking Erich Bradley, who has the opportunity to source grapes from celebrated vineyards in both Sonoma and Napa Counties. His hands-off natural winemaking style allows the wine to express its own personality. As a result, they speak deeply and eloquently. Sojourn Cellars Tasting salon, is in a chic renovated historic home, where I joined Erich after hours. If you're still try...

Vine Whisperer Phil Coturri-Moon Mountain Event

May 12, 2023 19:47 - 16 minutes - 16.6 MB

Vineyard manager and owner of Enterprise Vineyards, Phil Coturri has spent nearly his entire life as a mountain man, of sorts. He grew up on Sonoma Mountain, then started working on Moon Mountain in the 1970s. Between the two prominent ranges is the world-class wine-producing region of Sonoma Valley. Phil started learning about organic farming as a teenager, so it’s no surprise he is referred to as a wizard and a guru, possibly even a vine whisperer. In this podcast, Phil talks about his...

Wente Vineyards - A Leader in...

May 04, 2023 07:05 - 29 minutes - 28.5 MB

As they celebrate 140 years, you can say Wente Vineyards is the leader in the U.S. as the family winery has survived longer than any other. That’s quite an accomplishment! They are also a leader in sustainable practices, in a variety of areas. That’s impressive! Oh sure, Wente Vineyards has had more time than any other winery to develop sustainable business practices beyond what most can replicate, yet the family’s desire to continually do so goes as deep as the roots of their expansive vi...

Songwriters In Paradise

April 07, 2023 15:45 - 39 minutes - 38 MB

What goes better with an evening of music from talented singer-songwriters? Really good wine!  (I know you may be thinking beer, but hey, they’re in Napa Valley) 14 artists will be gathering for four nights of jammin’ music, and sharing stories for friendly, jovial people in intimate winery settings. On this podcast I talk with the founder of S.I.P., Patrick Davis about how this multi-year event came to be, and what attendees can expect. I will definitely be attending one or two shows.  Can’...

Nat'l Women in Wine Day - Anne Moller Racke, Blue Farm Wines

March 25, 2023 07:05 - 25 minutes - 25.4 MB

I didn’t mention it in the interview but Anne’s story is one of an immigrant achieving the American Dream. In Anne’s case, it was propelled by two exceptional mentors, and her drive to create something special, like designing a Sculpture Park throughout the rolling vineyards at Donum Estate. She also developed relationships with winegrowers who could provide the grapes she needed to create ideal Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Her impressive career is what prompted me to choose her as the subject...

Napa Winemaker Ted Henry Scores Big!

March 17, 2023 07:05 - 31 minutes - 30.4 MB

This is the third time I've interviewed winemaker Ted Henry - each time at a different winery. It's not that I'm a Ted groupie. As a matter of fact, I didn't plan to interview him when he moved to Groth Vineyard and Winery in 2021. But then I read four wines he produced when he was with Clos du Val winery won awards on an international stage...how could I pass up getting that story? Fortunately, we also cover much of what he's been doing since moving to Groth. Ted is now the Director of Wine...

LatinX Wine Industry Summit

March 06, 2023 08:01 - 32 minutes - 31.2 MB

In December, the 2nd Annual LatinX State of the Wine Industry Summit was held at RD Winery in Napa Valley. I missed the event but thought the topic was important enough to share on my podcast, so I met up with the moderator of the event, the dynamic Gabriela Fernandez. The all-day wine industry summit focused on the contributions the Hispanic and LatinX communities have made to the wine industry and celebrated the diversity, perseverance, and legacy-building resilience of those who have be...

Wine Industry Icon: Warren Winiarski - Classic

February 24, 2023 02:22 - 40 minutes - 39.3 MB

Sometimes good things come in twos. It took over two years for me to nail down this interview with Warren, I recorded over two hours of audio, and it took two visits to do so. Yet every minute I spent with him was a pleasure. You may be aware that Warren was the founder of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and it was his Cabernet Sauvignon that outscored the French Bordeaux wines in the famed Paris tasting of 1976. But that was early on. He has accomplished so much in his 90 years and, remarkably, co...

Exploring Portugal, Drinking Wine

February 07, 2023 22:01 - 45 minutes - 44.3 MB

Join me for my travels through Portugal. In this podcast version of Exploring Portugal, Drinking Wine, you'll meet Carlos de Jesus, the Director of Marketing and Communications of Amorim Cork. From then on, you'll have a newfound respect for the next cork you pull from a bottle! Then I'll sit with Sophia Renquivst from deep within the majestic Douro River Valley. She's been involved with the family's Quinta de la Rosa for most of her life. You can stay at their successful Port house, enjoy...

Valdo Numero 10 Sparkling Wine

January 16, 2023 00:11 - 20 minutes - 19.2 MB

I've been going through some ch-ch-changes for 2023...all for the better. I'll explain in this episode. My guest is Matteo Bolla, of the Italian Bolla wine-making family. However, his side of the family produces prosecco in a distinctive style called Valdo Numero 10. You'll hear about Matteo's family and this inexpensive sparkling wine on today's podcast. 

Taylor of Serres Ranch

December 22, 2022 01:38 - 19 minutes - 17.9 MB

Happy Holidays and New Year! My gift to you, a story featuring Taylor of Serres Ranch. She's an ambitious 5th generation family member who loves to share the story of their nearly 100 year old ranch. She does so with guests while introducing you to their wine in the middle of the vineyards. I’m sure you’ll get a kick out of the experience as I did. However, winemaking is just part of the many endeavors the family at Serras Ranch has embarked upon over the years. Growing blueberries is crop...

Meet Thatcher, The Phenom Somm

November 21, 2022 16:50 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MB

In this podcast I'll introduce you to a rising name in wine who is making waves within the industry.  Thatcher Baker-Briggs is a young sommelier who is fast-becoming a modern-day trailblazer for minorities and millennials in the wine industry. Not only can he procure impossible-to-get vintages and bottles for an international clientele list, he also launched an online import company, Thatcher’s Wine. And there's more... If you're still hanging on to the belief that sommeliers are self-a...

The Magical Bhutan Wine Company

October 25, 2022 16:15 - 42 minutes - 43.7 MB

The Kingdom of Bhutan has been referred to as "magical" for quite some time. So I suppose it should come as no surprise that the introduction of vineyards, while in the shadow of the Himilayas, occurred unexpectedly. And like a centuries-old fable, the hero in this tale possessed an unwitting innocence. Words that can best describe the project are, adventurous, challenging, and even daunting, but it has the potential to be miraculously rewarding. Today I share the tale of the Bhutan Wine...

Theresa Heredia, A Winemaker To Watch

September 19, 2022 22:25 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MB

My guest on this podcast is the engaging Theresa Heredia, the winemaker at Gary Farrell Vineyards and Winery. I really enjoyed sitting down with Theresa. Not only is she savvy, she's quite playful too, further adding to the enjoyment. Gary Farrell Vineyards and Winery is one of the early producers of Pinot Noir in Sonoma County, and remain in the forefront of bottling cool climate Pinot and Chardonnay. Theresa is a perfect fit. Please join us in their nicely designed tasting salon, won't y...

Founder, President, Mother Tracy Dutton

August 21, 2022 21:58 - 29 minutes - 27.2 MB

In the 20th century until the mid-70s or so, west Sonoma County was about as rural as a region could be. When it came to agriculture, it wasn’t far removed from the centuries prior in the farming, orchard, and grape growing regions of the old world. And like many small towns across America, it was common to marry “the boy next door.” Or girl. That’s part of the history of Dutton Ranch and Kozlowski Farms; two small family run businesses who managed to grow with determination and ingenuity. O...

How He Built This - The San Francisco Wine School

August 10, 2022 23:15 - 24 minutes - 22 MB

I've made the trip to the San Francisco Wine School a number of times in the past to expand my wine knowledge, while enjoying a selection of fine varietals. Heading into "the city" is something I enjoy. Often, I stay the night.   Since I’ve taken advantage of the San Francisco Wine School I thought you might find it an appealing option as well. They offer so many workshops, programs and events there's bound to be one that appeals to you. So I sat down with co-owner, Master Sommelier and Ce...

Hospice du Rhone in Paso Robles

July 26, 2022 00:19 - 56 minutes - 52.9 MB

On today’s podcast I'm featuring my roadtrip to the Hospice du Rhone event. It's an atypical wine tasting in California. In the French Rhone Valley region there are a great number of wine varieties and 22 of them were featured. 125 Wine producers from California, Oregon, Washington, and France were in attendance. During the weekend I spoke with General Manager and family member Jason Haas from Paso Robles' Rhone winemaking pioneer Tablas Creek Vineyard, winery owner Ted Ross of Hayseed and H...

Shooting Star Alicia Sylvester of Banshee Wines

July 02, 2022 00:18 - 32 minutes - 30.8 MB

I think of Alicia Sylvester as a shooting star because, to me, she appears to be speeding through life...even when she's standing still; when she can stand still. Her passion is invigorating. Her energy is inspiring. And at times you could even say she glows. This podcast can serve as a sort of Master Class on how to rise through the ranks. You'll get a kick out of how this small town central Cali girl ended up working harvests across the globe, playing a role in winemaking with respected ...

Ravenswood Winery Founder Joel Peterson Oral History

May 29, 2022 22:18 - 1 hour - 67.6 MB

I'm offering something a bit different today. As the Visual Oral Histories Chair of the Sonoma County Wine Library Association, I began videotaping oral histories as a way to capture the stories of those who made major contributions to the wine industry. Joel Peterson, the founder of Ravenswood Winery and now Once and Future Wine, certainly deserved to be included. This is the audio from his video. If you'd like to see the video click here. You may have heard the radio interview I posted in...

Wineries Celebrate Earth Month

April 16, 2022 20:06 - 45 minutes - 41.9 MB

Spring is here, we're getting out to enjoy it, and many are considering how to thoughtfully take care of our beauiful planet. Each April, California Wines presents Down to Earth Month celebrating Earth Day. In this podcast you'll  hear about events that are occuring across California. Guests include Allison Jordan of the Wine Institute, Jenifer Freebairn and Danielle Langlois of Lasseter Family Winery, and owner Dario Suttui of Napa Valley's Castello di Amorosa. Celebrate our planet and enjo...

Women In Wine - Katie & Pam

March 31, 2022 19:00 - 39 minutes - 37.5 MB

I have finally returned with a new podcast. I apologize for the delay. It was my intention to get this podcast featuring two female winemakers released in March. It's Women's History month, International Women's Day was March 8th, and the 25th was the Second Annual Women in Wine Day. A week before the release I met up with Katie Madigan of St. Francis Winery in Kenwood, CA. Katie was lucky enough to develop an intertest in wine as a result of her parents love and enthusiasm about the belov...

Korbel Champagne Cellars' Gary Heck

December 20, 2021 21:49 - 24 minutes - 23.9 MB

It's that time of year to pop some bubbly, so why not find out how the Korbel brothers eventually created "champagne" 139 years ago. It's a multi-layered history full of drama and perserverance. The Hecks are only the second family to run the business, and because of their decades of determination the brand can be found across the U.S. and internationally.  Click Play to hear the story of California Champagne. Cheers, and Happy Holidays! 

House of Saka - Cannabis Infused Wine

November 23, 2021 22:44 - 26 minutes - 25.8 MB

It was only a matter of time before cannabis would end up in wine. As it turns out, it's not an easy process. However, the proficient hand-picked crew at House of Saka have managed to make it happen. Looking for a different kind of lift from your Pinot Noir and sparkling Chardonnay that doesn't include alcohol? They can accommodate you. In this podcast Co-Founder and CEO Tracey Mason will share how they built the House of Saka and their vision of the future. You'll hear how years of experien...

The Passion of the Industry - revisited

October 23, 2021 16:14 - 38 minutes - 35.1 MB

Apparently, I've been absent for a while. For now, I'd like to reach back to share a version of this previous post. It's been an extreme pleasure to meet many fascinating personalities in the wine business. This recording highlights those who have expressed their passion about the wine industry, from Napa Valley and Sonoma County to Hopland and places in between. The winery owners, winemakers and growers I have chosen speak eloquently, philosophically, poetically, and often spiritually about...

Groove Wines

September 12, 2021 22:49 - 21 minutes - 21.2 MB

In this podcast you'll meet Nate Miles, who with is partner Matt Nagy, created Groove Wines. It's a thoughtful, stylish brand that believes in transparency. If you prefer wines that are made with little intervention; if you're concerned about the environment, preferring less impactful alternatives, then you'll want to hear about Groove Wines. These intriguing varietals and blends feature names like Joyride, The Daydreamer, The Wild One and The Raconteur. What's more, they're ready for home o...

Gracianna Winery - Inspired by Gratitude

August 01, 2021 21:53 - 20 minutes - 20.2 MB

Gracianna Winery was built on a history that stretches back to World War II. His great-grandmother's perseverance helped her escape Europe to start a new life in California. Gratitude was the result of what the New World had to offer. There were struggles, but maintaining a farm and living a full life was rewarding. Owner Trini Amador speaks lovingly of Gracianna, the woman who taught him gratitude. He so appreciated and respected his great-grandmother he captured her story in a book. In...

Balletto Vineyards' Anthony Beckman - Sonoma Co.

July 11, 2021 20:47 - 39 minutes - 37.8 MB

You may recall I interviewed owner John Balletto in 2015. His story is a perfect example of perseverance. He was only 17 when his father died, leaving 5 acres of vegetables to John and his mother. Now, 43 years later, Balletto has grown to include 800 acres of estate vineyards across Sonoma County. The wine is excellent, their prices are moderate, and have been referred to by wine magazines as a "Best Buy". The man responsible for the wine is Anthony Beckman, the subject of this interview,...

Matthieu Mangenot of Domaines Albert Bichot

June 28, 2021 20:02 - 38 minutes - 36.1 MB

On today's podcast you'll meet Matthieu Mangenot of Domaines Albert Bichot. It was a pleasure to head back to Beaune, France, albeit this time by telephone.  Matthieu will talk about his background and the wines they sent me (aren't I the lucky one?). He'll also touch upon the vineyards of Albert Bichot in areas of the three main appellations of Burgundy - village, Premier Cru and Grand Cru.  You'll also hear about some experiences you can enjoy if you plan to visit in the Burgundy Regio...

Dancin Vineyards and Weisinger Family of Rogue Valley, OR

June 12, 2021 21:57 - 42 minutes - 40.9 MB

Join me on a road trip to southern Oregon's Rogue Valley wine region. I met up with Dan Marca of DANCIN Vineyards, who offer a great variety of excellent Pinot Noir from around the region, Italian varietals, and a food menu that's nearly as long as their wine list. They're west of Medford near the historic town of Jacksonville.  As you occasionally hear in my interviews, serendipity often plays a key role. Dan has two stories that play into that theme.  And I sat with Eric Weisinger of Weis...

Ehlers Estate's International Formula

May 19, 2021 02:33 - 39 minutes - 36.9 MB

This interview is was a bit unusual for me, with good reason. Ehlers Estate is one of the few wineries that possess an on-going philanthropic element. But that came later. Ehlers Estate has a rich history dating back to 1886. It is arguably one of the top Cabernet producers in the competitive Napa Valley region. The old stone winery has been transformed into a modern, fashionable tasting space. In 2018, they hired Spanish immigrant Laura Diaz Muñoz as winemaker and General Manager. Her tal...

Napa's Todd Graff of Frank Family Vineyards

April 26, 2021 23:00 - 21 minutes - 20.6 MB

There were two reasons that prompted me to reach out to Todd Graff. First, in October my step-daughter Jackie told me that her favorite wine is Frank Family Vineyards' Cabernet Sauvignon. Then in December, I watched as Todd received "Napa Valley Winemaker of the Year" from the North Bay Business Journal's Annual Wine, Spirits and Beer Industry Awards.  Among the details of his history in the industry, he shared why he chose to travel early on. His wanderlust was further satisfied when he wa...

Mersenne Wines & Capo Creek Ranch

April 09, 2021 22:59 - 47 minutes - 44 MB

Both wineries featured in this podcast, Mersenne Wines and Capo Creek Ranch, pay tribute to musicians. Mersenne created a wine label for a British band, and Capo Creek has named a vineyard after a beloved performer. That's one aspect of each winery you'll appreciate as I get in-depth with their stories of overcoming obstacles.Mitch Rice of Mersenne Prime Artisan Wines entrance into the industry wasn't too complicated. He had experience as a home winemaker before taking the leap as a ...

Mersenne Wines and Capo Creek Ranch

April 09, 2021 19:00 - 47 minutes - 52.6 MB

Both wineries featured in this podcast, Mersenne Wines and Capo Creek Ranch, pay tribute to musicians. Mersenne created a wine label for a British band, and Capo Creek has named a vineyard after a beloved performer. That's one aspect of each winery you'll appreciate as I get in-depth with their stories of overcoming obstacles. Mitch Rice of Mersenne Prime Artisan Wines entrance into the industry wasn't too complicated. He had experience as a home winemaker before taking the leap as a winer...

Celebrating International Women's Day at CADE Estate & Pine Ridge Vineyards

March 19, 2021 19:03 - 37 minutes - 43.3 MB

On this podcast I talk with two talented female winemakers as we celebrated International Women's Day, recorded March 6th. My first guest will be Danielle Cyrot who has held enviable positions in her career, the last 12 years of which have been at CADE Estate Winery on Howell Mountain. Danielle is working with two interesting projects, the details of which we'll cover. Colleen FitzGerald is the enologist and a winemaker at Pine Ridge VIneyards in the Stags Leap District. She's been handed an...

Far Niente Family & Benchmark Wine Group - The Finest of Wines

February 20, 2021 20:00 - 36 minutes - 35.1 MB

The Far Niente Family of Wineries and Vineyards has created a lower priced wine called Post and Beam. That led me to interview winemaker Michael Accurso. He'll take us through the full Far Niente portfolio, which includes Nickel & Nickel, Dolce, En Route and Bella Union. You'll also learn how Far Niente came to be the revered winery that it is today, the beginnings of which go back to 1885. Far Niente helped create the high-end Napa Valley wine market and has continued that role for more tha...

The Winemakers of Terre Rouge and Sobon Estates

January 22, 2021 01:12 - 47 minutes - 43.4 MB

Today’s offering comes to you in a timely fashion. With the lifting of Stay at Home Order in California winery tasting rooms opened again last week for outdoor service, which happened a week before in the Sierra Foothills wine regions. Both interviews in this podcast feature winemakers in Amador County, Bill Easton of Domaine de la Terre Rouge and Easton Wines, and his neighbor Paul Sobon of Shenandoah Vineyards, Sobon Estate and his boutique brand, Paul J wines. For years, these tal...