Wine Talks with Paul K.
419 episodes - English - Latest episode: 20 days ago - ★★★★★ - 41 ratingsAll you knew about wine is about to bust wide open….we are going to talk about what really happens in the wine business and I’m taking no prisoners...
I am your host Paul Kalemkiarian 2nd generation owner of the Original Wine of the Month Club, and I am somewhere north of 100,000 wines tasted.
How can Groupon sell 12 bottles for $60 and the wines be good? How do you start a winery anyway and lose money? And is a screwcap really better than a cork? Sometimes I have to pick a wine at the store by the label and the price...and I get screwed.
Subscribe now and prepare to be enlightened.
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Episodes
Vinho Verde is hot in America. Meet a premium maker; meet Mafalda.
April 28, 2022 20:00 - 44 minutes - 103 MBVingo Verde is one of the hottest wine categories in America right now. The quality coming from this important region of Portugal is creating consumer awareness of this slightly bubbly wine. The wine regions of Portugal are plenty and anchored by the infamous Port wines. Most American consumers are not aware of the plethora of still wines being produced there, let alone the variety of styles and complexities. In 1993, my father and I visited Vin Expo and to our surprise, because the sh...
From making wine in Virginia to Paso Robles. Meet one interesting woman, Rachel Martin.
April 26, 2022 23:16 - 56 minutes - 130 MBA unique combination of education and experience brought Rachel Martin to launch Oceano Wines with husband and co-proprietor, Kurt Deutsch in 2016. A Virginia native, Martin was present at the inception of what is now considered one of that state’s premier wine producers, Boxwood Estate Winery, in 2005. As Executive Vice President of Winery Operations, Martin’s job was to oversee all facets of production, sales and marketing of Boxwood’s award-winning whites, rosés and Bordeaux-style red bl...
From making wine in Virginia to San Luis Obispo. Meet one interesting woman, Rachel Martin.
April 26, 2022 23:16 - 56 minutes - 130 MBA unique combination of education and experience brought Rachel Martin to launch Oceano Wines with husband and co-proprietor, Kurt Deutsch in 2016. A Virginia native, Martin was present at the inception of what is now considered one of that state’s premier wine producers, Boxwood Estate Winery, in 2005. As Executive Vice President of Winery Operations, Martin’s job was to oversee all facets of production, sales and marketing of Boxwood’s award-winning whites, rosés and Bordeaux-style red bl...
She makes wine in New Orleans. Seriously. Meet Kim Lewis.
April 21, 2022 18:59 - 51 minutes - 119 MBFor the past few years, I have been keeping up with all things Kim Lewis, some might say I am a social media stalker… Maybe! But can you blame me? Kim Lewis is an inspiring entrepreneur to look out for! She brought a winery to the heart of New Orleans. A concept that seemed a bit unusual, but it turns out there is actual wine history in Louisiana. Kim Lewis’ story is unique and fun like she is. Tune in to hear more about her life journey that brought her to the Wine Industry from leaving ...
Uruguay makes great wine. Meet Mele Sosa
April 19, 2022 22:06 - 49 minutes - 113 MBWhen you think of the wines of South America, you primarily think of the wines from Chile and Aregentina. Both countries with a rich history in wine and both can create world class examples. I searched my tasting database and found have only tasted 35 Urguan wines over that past 20 or so years. And i had my doubts...because typically wines that come here for tasting from newer lessor know districts, don't fair that well against their established competitors. Well, did the wines of Bodega ...
What does a Pink Cadillac and Rosé have in common. Meet Charles Bieler..
April 12, 2022 18:30 - 1 hour - 148 MBRosé was not a household word/wine in America. Maybe on the east coast it is more accepted. In that the famed Bob Trinchero raised the awareness of pink wine in America, it was a sweeter, fruited version of its dryer, more sophisticated French counterparts. And for me, Rosé can be just as complex and interesting from a terroir standpoint as any red or white wine. You will learn how Charles Bieler in his own way, set out to tell America with good Rose is all about. Taking a cue from the f...
He makes wine with his sister! Who could? Meet Marco Bonfante
April 09, 2022 19:58 - 51 minutes - 119 MBYou will hear a great discussion of the differences in philosophy and wines throughout Italy. I am a huge fan of the Bonfante wines and was thrilled to have Marco Bonfante in the house to tell us of the generations of his family in the wine trade. Wine and food are naturals and Marco does a great job laying out the foods and wines of north west Italy. On his website he quotes Salvador Dali "Real connoiseurs don't drink wine: they taste secrets." We probe that thought ...what are those...
Piemonte revealed No confusion about this famed region now. Meet Mattia Paggliasso
April 07, 2022 01:35 - 48 minutes - 110 MBPiemonte is one of the prolific wine regions of Italy. Situated about an hour west of Milan it is on the way to France for you geography buffs. It is also home to some of Italys most famous and sought after wines. From the famed white wine Gavi Di Gavi to the most collected Barolo's, Piemonte plays host to a huge variety of wine styles and indigenous foods. We meet up with a real Piedmontese, Mattia Paggliasso who helps us unwind the complexities of the wine region. What is cool about...
A true story of immigration and wine success. Meet Violet Grgich.
April 01, 2022 17:18 - 1 hour - 59.1 MBMike Grgich immigrated to America in search of fulfilling his dream of becoming a winemaker. He did that and much more. I get emotional listening to this story....my grandfather's trek was similar. Listen to the story and how Violet's passion for wine started at such a young age.
Two real women, real Napa history. Meet Chelsea & Remi Barrett
April 01, 2022 17:17 - 1 hour - 143 MBWhen Jim Barrett won the Judgement of Paris with his 1973 Chardonnay, I don't think he realized the legacy of Napa history he was creating. I caught up with two granddaughters who both carry the torch in their own way; creating unique and separate identities in the Napa Valley. Meet Remi and Chelsea Barrett.
Muscle your way into making wine. Meet Ian McCaffrey or Joel Gott wines.
March 31, 2022 21:27 - 49 minutes - 113 MBIan McCaffery wanted to be in wine. He has not only a philosophy on making wine but where and how wines are to be served and presented. He currently makes wine for the famed Joel Gott and Gavin Newsome's Plumpjack winery. His own brand Station 26 was inspired by the lifeguard station in Santa Monica number 26 where he met his wife. We don't know what he was doing at that station that night...we will have to wait for the next episode with him to find out. He was brought to wine as a young...
Muscle your way into making wine. Meet Ian McCaffrey of Joel Gott wines.
March 31, 2022 21:27 - 49 minutes - 113 MBIan McCaffery wanted to be in wine. He has not only a philosophy on making wine but where and how wines are to be served and presented. He currently makes wine for the famed Joel Gott and Gavin Newsome's Plumpjack winery. His own brand Station 26 was inspired by the lifeguard station in Santa Monica number 26 where he met his wife. He was brought to wine as a young man by tasting with his grandfather and walking the vineyard with him to ascertain the grape quality. His wine education jump...
Valle de Uco is the Napa Valley of Argentina. Hear a family story of wine.
March 29, 2022 19:00 - 49 minutes - 113 MBArgentina is considered new world when describing where it fits in the history of wine. The question is....is New World versus Old World a matter of character or oprigin? I think it is a combination of both. Los Noques is a family story of wine and I was intrigued by the passion and desire to let the world know about what pedigree of wines can be created in the Valle de Uco. It is unique in it's position against the Andes and the elevation from where the grapes draw their character. Hear th...
Wow. This girl is the wine bomb. Meet Bibiana Gonzalez Rave
March 24, 2022 20:00 - 49 minutes - 113 MBThe energy in the room changes when she walks in....you will have repair the ceiling...because this girl takes the energy through the roof. Tell me, how does a teenager living in Columbis (no wine at all) become so fascinated with making wine that she jumps ship and heads to Cognac and sits on the step of the Presidents office until he admits her into the University to study wine. She is one driven personality whose single minded purpose is to make the best wine from what the earth has giv...
Fresh approach is an understatement. Meet Franck-Lin Dalle
March 22, 2022 19:00 - 49 minutes - 114 MBFranck-Lin Dalle is in the family business but like many before him, he started out forging his own career. As an attorney in Paris, he felt the calling to go back to the Provence and take over the family business. The family has a peculiar rule, one most hand over the reigns when one turns 65; he has a few years to go. Rose is growing in popularity not only across the wine drinking world, but specifically in America. I think because the wines are becoming more terroir driven and complex. ...
She makes wine in the Loire Valley. Brilliant converstaion with Juliette Monmousseau
March 17, 2022 21:03 - 48 minutes - 112 MBThis Cremant de Loire house has an amazing history as it is now back in the hands of the original family. This story of wine, family and high finance is intriguing and we could have spoken for hours. Now it is Juliette and her father at the helm as she responded to her calling to come back home and be part of the family business. It is also a story of the camaraderie in the wine industry and particularly in the sparkling wine industry. Listen to the trials and tribulation of this famed ...
The Man. Steven Spurrier (passed 3/9/21); Architect of the Judgement of Paris...Incredible.
March 10, 2022 18:23 - 59 minutes - 54.1 MBSteven passed a year ago yesterday...I thought it a nice gesture to relaunch his appearance on Wine Talks. In 1976, the Americans beat the French in their own tasting. Meet the architect of this famed event, Steven Spurrier. You will never sip another glass of wine and not think of this story.
You will be entertained. Vance Rose of Route Stock.
March 08, 2022 23:40 - 57 minutes - 131 MBVance Rose has done just about everthing in the wine business. When it is all said and done, he felt his calling was to make wine. When I suggesgted his Cabernet Sauvignon was old school his response "that is the best compliment I have had in awhile". The wines he is making at Route Stock are solid examples of their varietals and districts.
Jennifer WIlliams downplays her rising star accolades. Wine Talks With Jennifer Williams
February 25, 2022 00:45 - 48 minutes - 112 MBJust as humble as can be, Jennifer preferred not to discuss her "rising star" moniker. Working side by side with Katherine Cakebread, Jennifer is at helm of winemaking for the ZIATA brand. An engaging smile and demeanor, Jennifer shares her opinion of all things wine.
In Paso Robles, there is Patrimony. An old friend stopped by; Steve Palumbo of Patrimony Estates
February 23, 2022 03:06 - 54 minutes - 125 MBWhen the Daou brothers came to Paso Robles to start the famed winery, they spied a property in the Adelaide district that intrigued their senses. Patrimony is a testimony to terroir, culture and the dream of two immigrants. This was one great conversation and you must try the wines. It is not only a story of wine but of immigration, escape, pride and hard work. Steve has been in the wine industry for over 20 years and have been a fan of the Wine of the Month Club for just as long.
Pahlmeyer makes Pinot. Joe Hunter of Wayfarer Wines
February 18, 2022 21:04 - 47 minutes - 110 MBWhat was clear during my conversation with Joe Hunter was the main requirement for a successful wine and winery is passion. A true student of the wine industry, Joe tells of the energy and philosophy of the Pahlmeyer family and their stake in the Wayfarer brands. Completely inspirational...a must hear.
It is all about the vines. Meet nurseryman Andrew Jones
February 17, 2022 00:59 - 1 hour - 150 MBThis conversation will take you to the next level of understanding wine. I was so intrigued to hear the plight of the nurseryman when it comes to vineyards; this ain't Armstrong if you know what I am sayin'. Andrew Jones knows his stuff, you will know yours in 60 minutes.
Largest Organic Grape Farmer in France. Meet Chateau Lagarde
February 09, 2022 20:32 - 44 minutes - 102 MBMeet Lionel Raymond. After a stint as a petroleum engineer, Lionel got the bug. The buyer of the the family Chateau defaulted and Lionel and his father took it back and they now responsible for the largest organic vineyard holdings. Incredible journey and story of Chateau Lagarde.
Aphrodisiac foods? Yes, please. Meet the foremost authority Amy Reiley.
February 03, 2022 22:27 - 52 minutes - 119 MBShe set out to get her master's in Gastronomy at The Cordon Bleu and ended up becoming America's authority on aphrodisiac foods. Yes, this is a thing. We had a fascinating conversation about aphrodisiac foods and wine...and much more. Cook up some lovin' with Amy Reiley.
Spanish wines can be confusing. Not for Marta Delfa
February 01, 2022 12:26 - 40 minutes - 91.8 MBI needed to have Marta on the show to help me sort out the wines of Spain. She is the export manager for the largest Spanish wine exporters: Torres. She was engaging, funny and knowledgable. Have a listen.
Spanish wines can be confusing, but not for Marta Delfa!
February 01, 2022 12:26 - 40 minutes - 91.8 MBI needed to have Marta on the show to help me sort out the wines of Spain. She is the export manager for the largest Spanish wine exporter: Torres. She was engaging, funny, and knowledgeable. Have a listen.
Fraud In The Wine Business? Frances Dinkelspiel Tells Us
January 27, 2022 22:12 - 1 hour - 85.3 MBFrances Dinkelspiel has written two New York Times best-selling books; the latest was Tangled Vines: Greed, Murder, Obsession, and an Arson in the Vineyards of California. She follows the trails of some of the most notorious deceitful events in the wine trade...and it ain't pretty. You will want to read the book immediately.
Wine educator and podcaster. I Chat With Natalie MacLean
January 25, 2022 23:31 - 1 hour - 85.3 MBA wealth of wine knowledge, Natalie MacLean, noted wine author, stumbled into wine appreciation where her husband suggested she take wine classes (gold lesson didn't pan out the way they had hoped). A wealth of wine knowledge and a fresh approach, meet Natalie Maclean.
He reopened after Covid to a packed house. Meet Jonathan Waxman
January 22, 2022 00:28 - 1 hour - 98.8 MBThe cuisine boom of the '80s in America is in part due to a movement towards fresher simpler food that took hold in Los Angeles and young chefs and restaurant owners. Jonathan Waxman was at the forefront of this change. Trained in France and part of the original crew at Michael McCarty's Michaels, Jonathan has won numerous awards and opened numerous restaurants. Considered a Top Chef in any circle, meet Jonathan Waxman.
She has a bachelors degree in wine. Literally. Meet Simone FM Spinner.
January 22, 2022 00:25 - 51 minutes - 117 MBSimone FM Spinner set out to create her own major...in wine. Not an enology degree, not a fermentation degree....a wine degree. In this podcast she explains the aesthetics of wine and a variety of other well articulated viewpoints on wine. Our episode went by so fast, we didn't get to much of what I wanted to talk about....she is going to come back on soon.
She has a bachelors degree in wine. Literally. Meet Simone Spinner.
January 18, 2022 19:59 - 51 minutes - 117 MBSimone Spinner set out to create her own major...in wine. Not an enology degree, not a fermentation degree....a wine degree. In this podcast she explains the aesthetics of wine and a variety of other well articulated viewpoints on wine. Our episode went by so fast, we didn't get to much of what I wanted to talk about....she is going to come back on soon.
Kevin O'Leary makes wine. Hear him on Wine Talks
January 12, 2022 23:56 - 52 minutes - 125 MBMr. Wonderful was in the house...not too long ago, Wine Talks caught up with Kevin O'Leary to talk the wine biz....really fun chat. In this jovial episode of **Wine Talks with Paul Kay**, Kevin O'Leary, entrepreneur extraordinaire, dives into the world of wine and exclusive watches. O'Leary reveals his undying love for Bordeaux wines, particularly Latour and Chevalier Blanc, akin to finding "the perfect pair of socks that never slip." He passionately talks about blending wines and rese...
Kevin O'Leary makes wine...Hear him on Wine Talks
January 12, 2022 00:19 - 53 minutes - 73.3 MBI was honored and humbled to have wine expert and celebrity Kevin O'Leary on Wine Talks. As a shark on the successful show Shark Tank, he touts his wine expertise and knowledge. After writing a talking points agenda two pages long...we never got off wine and watches! His wine appreciation grew as a his family moved throughout the world and he experienced wine and life. Sit back and hear wine wisdom and stories.
Before the Spectator there was Pattersons. Meet the couple that saved it.
January 06, 2022 21:17 - 53 minutes - 123 MBBack in the day, the only resource we had in the wine trade was Pattersons. A journal of all things beverage, it did not keep up with the times. Enter Meredith May, a savvy business woman who knew nothing of wine but knew publishing to save and turn the fledging periodical into a must have trade journal. The Somm Journal and the Tasting Panel are two growing trade magazines...hear why.
Paso is on fire. Here is why. Wine Talks with the Austin Hope
December 23, 2021 21:43 - 1 hour - 84.5 MBOn a recent trip to Paso Robles....a must do for anyone interested in learning the great districts of California wine, I sat with Austin Hope of the Hope family vineyards. Hear how he responded to covid and other interesting approaches to telling the Hope Family story. Great chat and we will do it again.
Legend? Yes. The Wine Merchant of Beverly Hills; Mr. Dennis Overstreet
December 21, 2021 18:03 - 58 minutes - 83.4 MBEver industry needs is leaders...the mythical legends that inspire us to do better, to keep your head down and persevere. Dennis Overstreet is that man and I had the chance to set up the studio in his store in Beverly Hills. Sitting amongst the greatest wines in the world, we laughed, gafawed and got serious about wine.
How Do They Make Wine Barrels? Learn from Douglas Rennie, Master Cooper
December 14, 2021 19:59 - 54 minutes - 75.5 MBBarrels are in mysterious part of the wine making process and is the source of many questions from Wine of the Month Club members. Coopering is an art form and an important influence of wine making. Hear from 4th Generation Master Cooper and artisan Douglas Rennie of Seguin Moreau. Seguin Moreau was founded in the 1800's in Cognac, France. Hear about this fascinating history and personal trek Douglas Rennie. PK
The 1855 Bordeaux Classification and more. Meet Jean Michael LaPorte of Chateau Talbot
December 09, 2021 19:55 - 49 minutes - 113 MBIn 1855, Napoleon III organized a classification of the Left Bank wineries. Chateau Talbot earned a position as a 4th growth putting it among the top Chateau of the area. In fact, Saint Julien, where Chateau Talbot resides, earned 11 classified positions making it the most awarded sub-district. Hear from Jean Michael Laporte, General Director and winemaker of Chateau Talbot. Also, listen to the Wine Talks episode with Jean Paul Bignon of Chateau Talbot.
Most famous Champagne has a story. Meet the story teller Tilar Mazzeo
December 02, 2021 21:14 - 1 hour - 104 MBTilar Mazzeo used to share the fame Champagne Veuve Clicquot with her friends and would bring anecdotal stories about the widow until her friends said "you need to write a book about this woman" so she did. A fascinating story of the most recognized Champagne brand on the planet... and it wasn't always that way. After you hear the sorted tails, you will be inspired to get on a plane, head to Champagne France and see it for yourself.
Champagne is about family. Try 13 generations...and meet Alain Sacy
November 24, 2021 01:26 - 50 minutes - 115 MBThere is a certain passion that surrounds Champagne; its production and consumption....it is different than other wines. Yes, it sparkles and is assigned the role of celebration in the wine world. If you ask any wine making family in Champagne if the beverage should be reserved for special occasions, they will respond with..."everyday is a special occasion!" And I agree, Champagne should be part of your regular wine consumption. Hear from Alain Sacy who has employed his adult children as the...
Get inspired about wine and America. Meet Haig Mardikian
November 21, 2021 16:10 - 1 hour - 157 MBThe late, great George Mardikian was restauranteur extraordinaire, philanthropist and an inspiration to his family and employees. Hear from his nephew/son Haig Mardikian wine, Ohman Khayyams, immigration and philanthropy. We discuss the famed Mardikian Pinot Noir, the immigration of 10’s of thousands of Armenians to America, and life. It is probably the most emotional podcast I have hosted and guessing that monicker will stand for awhile. PK
This guy knows wine. Meet winemaker, educator and passioniste…Ian Blackburn.
November 18, 2021 22:27 - 55 minutes - 126 MBI kept running into Ian at tastings, dinners and special wine events. We got to talking and his expertise oozed during our conversations. He makes wine, educates on wine and judges wine…pretty much does it all. We sat down and tried to touch on all of it…but ran out of time. It inspires one to hear the drive and passion.
She is absolutely committed to the family vineyard; pure passion. Meet Jessica Stolpman.
November 17, 2021 10:30 - 50 minutes - 115 MBThe Stolpman history is storied in the wine business. Typical in that boy becomes attorney, attorney finds wine, attorney starts winery; heard it a thousand times...but this story is for the love of the lifestyle and love of the grape. Here from Jessica Stolpman and her path to the family business.
From Provence to Sonoma, incredible journey. Wine Talks with Justin Hirigoyen
November 11, 2021 21:30 - 52 minutes - 121 MBJustin Hirigoyen got the bug at wile working at his fathers Basque restuarant. What is interesting, his first soiree into making wine landed on the opposite side of the Pyrenees at the famed Chateau D'Esclans. After his first harvest, he was hooked. His philosophy is to listen and learn to the land to create the best wine from the terroir. His approach os fresh and we tasted through three Pinot Noirs each a 2018 from different parts of famed Pinto Noir territory. Have a listen.
Winemaking pedigree in Napa. Meet Chris Phelps..he worked at Petrus
November 09, 2021 23:42 - 50 minutes - 115 MBWe got right into the meat of the passion it takes to make wine. The discipline to stick at it, the courage to travel and jump on at some of the best Chateau in the wine world. And Chris Phelps has done just that. With encouragement from his better half, Chris has found himself negotiating for a position at the famed Dominus in Napa over a glass of Dom in a Parisian office (no, this isn't a movie, it is a podcast). Hear the details here.
From the Silicon Valley to the Napa Valley with success. Meet Vineyard 29
November 02, 2021 23:03 - 54 minutes - 125 MBBefore we started the recorder, my conversation with Chuck McMInn was about the telecom industry back in the day....and how he was responsible for the release of the famed Intel 8088 processor (this is serious microprocessor history). The wine bug got him on a trip to Napa and as he puts it "I got into the wine business two weeks before I knew I was in the wine business"" Fabulous story and as winemaker Keith Emerson peels back his passion for winemaking, you understand why Vineyard 29 quic...
Les Amis Du Vin in all its glory. The history is there. Ed Masciana in the house.
October 28, 2021 23:17 - 55 minutes - 127 MBThe study of wine started in the late 60's when Ed began calling on Palos Verdes Wines and Spirits as a newspaper ad salesman. He was inspired by dad's exuberance and academia for the subject and committed himself to learn as much as fast as possible. Ultimately, he headed up two chapters of the International wine society, Les Amis Du Vin, through which Ed organized tastings with some of the most famed critics of the time. Ed and I dig a bit deeper on what the modern LADV will look like. Sal...
Passion in the Williamette Valley. Meet Rollin Soles.
October 22, 2021 22:31 - 1 hour - 150 MBI bought some Roco Pinot Noir; the Stalker, and during the process was told the winemaker, Rollin Soles was a hoot. Correct. Having made wine in all corners of the world of wine, Rollin Soles has deliberate and unique perspectives on all aspects of wine. It is refreshing to hear the passion as a result of vast experience. Have a listen to Rollin (pronounced Raw-lin). Salud.
Start a French winery without knowing French. Learn how with Moritz Bak
October 18, 2021 18:41 - 51 minutes - 119 MBI have been tasting his wines for years and featured the Blanc in my club…I never peeled the story back to understand the motivation behind his wines. Meet Moritz Bak who thought it a good idea to start a winery at the base of the Pyrenees; only one problem…he did not know French. Have a listen.
His wine festivals are beyond compare. Meet Matthew Lindsey
October 12, 2021 21:28 - 1 hour - 140 MBWine can be a difficult subject. And I don't believe in the idea that you can simplify it....however, Matthew Lindsey has created an method that engages the novice and enthusiast alike when approaching the subject of wine. His wine festivals combine food, wine and cocktails (oh, and music) all under one venue. I am headed to one of his festivals this month to see how he does it.