The Vine Guy: Recent Episodes
WTOP | Hubbard Radio
The Vine Guy dives into the world of wine with wine makers, wine producers, wine professionals and wine lovers. WTOP wine columnist Scott Greenberg talks with wine industry greats, shares which wines you may want to buy next and tells stories to help you savor your next glass of wine even more.
Michael Kennedy created the Vin Fraîche Wine Group in 2018, after launching three distinct wineries in Napa Valley, Bordeaux and Oregon. In 2020 an additional winery was acquired to the group in Tuscany, Italy. Kennedy's drive to create wines of freshness, vibrancy and life has created a thread of commonality in the wines throughout the brands. His passion for wines that are complex, long lived and built for food has driven him to assemble a team of winemakers and friends that help create wines of substance. He has been called a “Rising Star” by Food & Wine Magazine, “Super-Somm” by Bloomberg’s Elin McCoy and a “Top Young Entrepreneur in America” by Business Insider. He splits his time between Napa Valley, Bordeaux, Tuscany and his hometown, St. Louis. He and his wife Rachel have two sons, and one more on the way. Drink in this delightful episode with the refreshing Michael Kennedy.
Gustavo’s love for wine runs deep into his childhood. He grew up in California’s Central Valley, surrounded by family with longstanding ties to agricultural business who instilled in him a love of the land and an appreciation for wine. He spent his summers in orchards, vineyards, cotton fields, tomato fields and canneries, but he never intended to be a farmer, much less a winemaker. His dreams were filled with airplanes and rockets and cars. But one day he found a bottle from Robert Mondavi Winery that his father had put away. After reading the mission statement on the back label, his trajectory changed and led to 17 years at Mondavi, where he earned the title of head red winemaker. In 2009, Gustavo established Mira as one of the top producers of small production, single-vineyard wines in Napa Valley—including fruit from premier vineyard sites such as Hyde Vineyard in Carneros and Schweizer Vineyard in the heart of the Stags Leap District. Drink in this episode with the fascinating Gustavo Gonzalez.
Lindsey Fern discovered her passion for wine while backpacking through Europe and Africa and later honed her skills working in restaurants all over the world including London, Ibiza, Miami and San Francisco’s Bay Area. In 2014, her journey ultimately led her to the Inn at Little Washington as their cellar master. Then in 2021, she became director of wine. Lindsey is the only woman running a 3-Star Michelin restaurant’s wine program in the country! She in passionate about the industry and her career. Drink in this refreshing episode with the delightfully candid Lindsey Fern.
Loveblock wines is founded by Erica Crawford, and her husband, Kim Crawford, renowned veterans of the New Zealand wine industry. Erica started her career as an aspirational medical scientist, progressing into the pharmaceutical industry. Her career in the wine industry was quite by accident, when she met Kim Crawford. Erica and Kim began making wine under their own label in 1996 and later sold that brand. However, both were lured back by an untamed parcel of land on a hillside in Marlborough’s Awatere Valley and the prospect of making wines that showed “true and naked terroir.” Erica credits her healthy lifestyle with growing healthier vines and making cleaner wines in New Zealand.
Caren Hatton, and her partner Fritz, started Arietta in 1996, in partnership with famed Napa winemaker John Kongsgaard. Their focus is, and has always been, ultra-premium Bordeaux-inspired blends from the Napa Valley. As classical music enthusiasts, Arietta takes its name from Beethoven’s Arietta movement of his last piano sonata, Opus 111. Today, Arietta wines are made by Andy Erickson, one of the most accomplished winemakers in the Napa Valley, and Caren now leads expansion of Arietta Wines into the “mountain states.” Drink in this episode with the melodic Caren Hatton.
Vince Anter is a certified sommelier and founder of “V is for Vino.” While pursuing a rock ‘n’ roll career as a guitarist and vocalist, he fell in love with wine while working at the bars and upscale restaurants that paid the bills. As he pursued further wine knowledge, he realized there was no place for the “average Joe” to learn about wine casually; and thus, V is for Vino was born, providing wine education “info-tainment” for the casual and not-so-casual wine drinker. In each episode, Vince takes his audience to a different wine region to explore its culture and history, taste the wine and meet the winemakers. The show is for anyone wanting to learn - from your everyday wine drinker to more serious wine studying professionals. The show has been featured in Forbes, Fox, US Weekly, CBS, Decanter, and more. It can be seen on www.visforvino.com, YouTube, Roku, Amazon Prime, and in airport across the country on ReachTV.
David Ramey revolutionized modern-day winemaking and helped to elevate California to the forefront of the international wine community. Hailed as “Professor Chardonnay” by Wine Spectator, David’s groundbreaking work with indigenous yeasts, whole-cluster pressing, sur lies aging and malolactic and barrel fermentation yielded a new California Chardonnay style that was richer and more complex. A stint working for the Moueix family at the renowned Château Pétrus in Bordeaux introduced David to the time-honored methods of winemaking in France. He brought these lessons back to California where he helped establish a number of wineries that would soon become household names such as Matanzas Creek, Chalk Hill, Dominus Estate and Rudd Estate.
In 1996, David and his wife Carla founded Ramey Wine Cellars in Healdsburg, California. They live just outside Healdsburg, not far from the winery. Their two children are now actively involved in the business, continuing the tradition of crafting some of the most sought-after wines in California.
Please drink in this master class in winemaking with the Legend himself, David Ramey.
In the final installment from the Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience, Justin Seidenfeld shares his passion for winemaker and sustainability. Justin is the senior vice president of winemaking and winegrowing for Rodney Strong Vineyards, the iconic Sonoma County Winery founded in 1959 by namesake Rodney Strong. Justin’s winemaking career began in Sebastopol, California, where he was an intern at Iron Horse winery in 2005. He quickly rose from cellar hand to taking on winemaking responsibilities which in 2006 led him to the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa Valley. As a harvest enologist at Mondavi, Seidenfeld gained a comprehensive understanding of quality land and viticulture. He took that experience as he supervised the winemaking at Estancia, Clos du Bois, Simi, and others within the Constellation portfolio. Justin graduated from the University of California, Davis in 2006 with a B.S. in viticulture and enology. He lives in Santa Rosa with his wife Dena and their three daughters Madison, Lila and Reagan.
Steve Sangiacomo is a third-generation partner at Sangiacomo Family Vineyards, located in Sonoma, California where his family has farmed since 1927. He grew up on the ranch and began learning the ropes from his father and extended family at a young age. In his early 20s, Steve began learning the family business from the ground up, and in his 30s he and his brother Mike took over the reins of the family business. Today, Steve shares responsibility with his brother for managing the family’s 1600 acres of vineyards as well as grape sales to more than 70 premium wineries, many of whom vineyard-designate their wines with the Sangiacomo name. He also oversees his family’s own newly-released wine label, Sangiacomo Family Wines. He flat out loves his job, particularly the wide variety of responsibilities spanning both the framing side and the wine making side. Drink in this episode with Steve Sangiacomo in the fourth installment of the Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience series, live from the Hotel Healdsburg.
In this third installment of the Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience, I had the pleasure of sitting down with wine grower, Duff Bevill. Duff originally intended to specialize in fruit and nut production, but a summer job in Dry Creek Valley in 1973 transformed his career dreams. Working for a local vineyard management company, Duff became acquainted with many older farmers in Dry Creek Valley. “It gave me a sense of history and an appreciation for what it means to be a grape grower in this valley.” Widely recognized as one of Sonoma County’s most accomplished vineyardists, Duff has been farming wine grapes in the area for over 40 years. A strong proponent of sustainable farming, he supports the implementation of the guidelines established by the California Association of Wine Grape Growers and the Sonoma County Winegrape Commission. Duff and his wife Nancy live in the heart of Dry Creek Valley, surrounded by vineyards. Drink in the very educational session with Duff Bevill.
Originally from Spain, Alberto Solis developed his love for food and respect for high quality ingredients from his summers spent in Andalucia, a region known for Iberico. When Alberto came to the U.S., he followed his passion into the specialty food business, introducing many Spanish products, including olive oil, cheeses, vinegars, tuna, and of course, jamon Iberico to U.S. consumers. Over his 30-year career, Alberto became more interested in local foods, and co-founded the successful KitchenTown in Silicon Valley. His knowledge of Iberico, and passion for quality, have inspired him to farm the coveted Iberico pig in Sonoma County, California. Drink in this episode with Alberto Solis as part of the Healdsburg Wine and Food Experience.
Celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan was seemingly born with a ladle in her hand. She started her culinary journey in her homeland of India and eventually landed in Chicago where she became the executive chef of Vermilion, earning multiple accolades, including Chicago magazine's Best New Restaurant, Esquire's Restaurant of the Month and Wine Enthusiast's Best New Restaurant in the U.S. She eventually landed a role on Iron Chef as the only Indian female ever to compete on that stage. She then proved to be a fierce competitor on The Next Iron Chef. Today, Chef Chauhan is a full-time judge on the Food Network hit show Chopped, which has been nominated for a Critics' Choice Award and granted Chef Chauhan the honor of receiving the prestigious James Beard Award of Excellence.
Chef Chauhan is an active supporter of various charities such as CRY (Child Rights and You) and P.A.V.E. (Partnerships for Action, Voices for Empowerment). Maneet is highly devoted to giving back to the community that has given her so much. In 2014, she opened Chauhan Ale & Masala House in Nashville, Tenn. Her energy and creativity, combined with polished culinary skills and the courage to follow her passion, have proved to be the right ingredients for success. Chef Chauhan currently resides in Nashville with her husband, daughter and son.
Drink in this episode of the Vine Guy for a very candid conversation with Chef Maneet Chauhan.
Just in time for International Sherry Week, Chantal Tseng – a true student of all things liquid - joins the podcast to discuss the versatility of various types of sherry – both paired with food and in cocktails - and to debunk a few old myths. Tseng was the original bar manager and senior bartender of the country’s first ever sherry bar, Mockingbird Hill, where she created and managed the wine list and cocktail program. She was named EaterDC’s 2013 Bartender of the Year and one of Daily Meal’s 25 Top Bartenders in America. Please drink in this educational and fun episode with the charming Chantal Tseng.
Wines tasted in this episode:
Gonzalez-Byass Tio Pepe Fino en Rama Sherry
Gonzalez-Byass Alfonso Oloroso Sherry
Ben Jordan oversees all aspects of winemaking, vineyards and production at Early Mountain Vineyards near the Shenandoah in Virginia. While his background is in fine arts, Ben has been able to put together an impressive winemaking resume with positions at popular wineries in Sonoma County, as well as the general manager and winemaker with Michael Shaps Wineworks in Virginia. Ben brings to Early Mountain a philosophy of crafting high-quality wines from grape varieties that showcase a commitment to the vineyard and the expression of place. Drink in this episode with the very pragmatic Ben Jordan.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Early Mountain Vineyards Petit Manseng
2019 Early Mountain Vineyards Quaker Run Cabernet Franc
There’s a big gap in Erica Stancliff’s winemaking career… the Petaluma Gap to be accurate. Erica’s path to winemaking started at the tender age of 10 when one evening, respected winemaker and family friend Paul Hobbs, whom she calls “Uncle Paul”, came to her parent’s home for dinner with a bottle of 1997 Michael Black Vineyard Merlot tucked under his arm. Hobbs asked her to stick her nose in the glass and describe what she smelled, and “from the mouth of babes” poured adjectives that would have made any wine writer proud. Hobbs then asked her to describe the wine’s flavors. Again, the sensory descriptors flowed, prompting Hobbs to exclaim “you need to be a winemaker!” And become a winemaker she did. Erica is now the fulltime winemaker for Pfendler Vineyards in the Petaluma Gap in Sonoma, California. Drink in this fascinating episode with the talented and enthusiastic Erica Stancliff.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Pfendler Vineyards Chardonnay
2019 Pfender Vineyards Pinot Noir
John Boich thought he was happy with his successful career as a fund manager until a serendipitous purchase of raw land high in Napa’s Mt. Veeder set him on a life-changing path that he never would had imagined. He eventually traded in his suit for a shovel, planting a vineyard by hand one Saturday at a time for eight years. His goal was to produce wines worthy of a world stage. He assembled a collection of additional vineyard sources including Beckstoffer’s To Kalon, Georges III and Missouri Hopper vineyards; Sonoma’s Ritchie Vineyard; and the winery’s three-acre estate gem: Wall Road Vineyard, and the Wall Road Terrace, the steep estate vineyard that John planted by hand. Drink in this episode with the inspiring John Boich of Boich Family Cellars.
Wines Tasted In This Episode:
2018 Boich Family Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard
2018 Boich Family Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon Wall Road Vineyard
Daniel Shanks' road to the White House began as a fledgling college student in Richmond, Virginia. Following graduation, Daniel made his way out to Napa Valley, where he started working in restaurants and developed growing appreciation for the passion for the sounds, smells and taste of grapes while living on a vineyard in Rutherford. In 1977, he was hired to be the maitre’d at Chandon, Domaine Chandon’s fine dining restaurant. In late fall of 1994, Daniel received a call that would change his life. It was from the usher's office of the Executive Residence of the White House, inquiring if he would like to be considered for the position of food and beverage usher. He arrived at the White House for his interview with the chief usher and first lady Hillary Clinton’s social secretary. The rest, as they say, is history!
Drink in this very special episode of the Vine Guy and find out why people's perception of the White House as a shining example of the best of American dining has both its rewards and its challenges.
Wines Discussed In This Episode:
1995 Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon
1985 “Shanks” Zinfandel
Jean Hoefliger is a man with a quixotic mission: He is inspired and driven by the quest for creative perfection while knowing full well that it can never be achieved. An artisan who has always been motivated to push the envelope, he relies on a commitment to constant scientific research matched by an open-minded, entrepreneurial creativity. His background in winemaking has included stints at Michel Schlumberger and Hartford Family in Sonoma, followed by moves to Bordeaux and South Africa, where he made wine at the esteemed estates of Chateau Carbonnieux and Meerlust, respectively. After earning degrees in enology and viticulture in Switzerland, Jean returned to Bordeaux to make wine at Chateau Lynch-Bages. Moving back to California, he spent five years as winemaker for Newton Vineyard from 2001 to 2005 and then in 2006 became part of the Alpha Omega team from its inception, where he was winemaker and general manager. Today, he has a global consulting business with clients in Tuscany, Texas, Switzerland, France, Sonoma County, and Napa Valley. I invite you to drink in this episode with the passionate Jean Hoefliger.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2020 AXR Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
2017 The Debate Artalade Montagna Vineyard, Napa Valley
Born in Milan, Italy, Alberto Bianchi has had the luxury of traveling the world while learning how to make wine, including stints in Italy, France, Australia, New Zealand, and finally in California where he became the head winemaker at Newton Vineyard. Alberto was drawn to the Spring Mountain site because it’s steep hillside vineyards reminded him of his idyllic summers spent in the Cinque Terre of Italy where he became intrigued by the region’s mountain vineyards. According to Alberto, the vines on Spring Mountain may not have an easy life, but their struggle pays off with wines that are seriously delicious and clean. I invite you to drink in this episode with the charming and talented Alberto Bianchi.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Newton Vineyards Unfiltered Chardonnay
2018 Newton Vineyards The Puzzle
Hailing from a large family in Ireland, David O’Reilly has been working with wine for over thirty years. In addition to making Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, David is also passionate about winemaking in the Yakima Valley of Eastern Washington State. For O’Reilly, this region presents the new world with an outstanding opportunity to create wines that show old world expression. His Owen Roe brand was established using images associated with the iconic Confederate Owen Roe O’Neil, who helped rally the Irish against the English Parliamentary forces. Drink in this lively episode with the delightful David O’Reilly and find out why there is a severed hand on his label!
Wines tasted in this episode: 2019 Owen Roe Sinister Hand Red Wine from Columbia Valley 2018 Owen Roe Rosa Mystica Cabernet Franc from Yakima Valley
Ian Cauble, MS was featured in the original SOMM documentary as an intense and focused wine professional pursing the coveted Master Sommelier certification. In actuality, this Southern California former surfer is laid back and charming. He has been named “Best Young Sommelier in the World” and TOPSOMM. His thirst for knowledge – and successfully acquiring the Master Sommelier title – has led him to start one of the most unique online wine programs in America. SommSelect is a custom wine program that lets clients “Drink like a Somm.” Drink in this fast-paced interview with the oh-so-passionate Ian Cauble, MS.
Wines sampled in this episode:
Murgo, Método Classico Brut Rosé from Italy
2017 Bati?, Cabernet Franc from Slovenia
Robin is the direct descendant of Gustave Niebaum, founder of the famed Inglenook Vineyards. And while she loved growing up among the grape vines, it wasn’t until 1977 that she launched her career in wine as Robert Mondavi’s personal assistant and later as co-founder at Dominus with Christian Moueix — and then again with Bill Harlan at Merryvale Vineyards, where she served as president for twelve years. Finally in the mid-90s, Robin fulfilled her dream of creating her own extraordinary wines, launching Lail Vineyards with her two daughters, Erin and Shannon. Come drink in this episode with the extraordinary Robin Lail and taste two of her favorite wines, including Wine Enthusiast’s Number One Wine for 2020.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Lail Vineyard Blueprint Sauvignon Blanc
2018 Lail Vineyard Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon
Unless you have been living in a wine cave up in the hills, you’ve probably heard of wine journalist Natalie MacLean. In addition to being the bestselling author of Red, White and Drunk All Over: A Wine-Soaked Journey from Grape to Glass and Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World's Best Bargain Wines, she is also the recipient of four – count them – FOUR James Beard Foundation Journalism Awards. In this episode, Natalie shares her tips on pairing food and wine – including her favorite, Ketchup Crisps (potato chips). And she is offering a special gift to listeners. Drink up this conversation with the incomparable Natalie MacLean.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Hidden Bench Pinot Noir (Niagara, Canada)
2018 La Crema Pinot Noir (Sonoma, California)
Lisa Mattson, Jordan Vineyard’s director of marketing & communications, has worked in the wine industry for more than twenty years, honing her skills in writing, event planning, public relations, marketing, blogging, social media and creative strategy. She created Jordan Winery’s award-winning videos and dynamic blogs, The Journey of Jordan and Wine Country Table. She is passionate about all-things Jordan, including their new Pollinator program as well as Jordan’s Foundation, which focuses on helping children and young adults in the community. Drink in this episode with the charming Lisa Mattson.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2011 Jordan Chardonnay
2011 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendocino County, located on the coast of Northern California, approximately equidistant from the San Francisco Bay Area and the California/Oregon border, was originally coined “the emerald triangle.” Today, thanks to Bernadette Byrne, the executive director of the Mendocino Winegrowers Association, Mendocino is now known for producing quality wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, and more. The region is diverse, the family farmed vineyards are quaint, and the wines fly free (on participating airlines). Come visit Mendocino County through Bernadette’s interview on this episode of The Vine Guy.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 McNab Ridge Winery Grenache Rosé , Mendocino
2013 Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley
Consulting winemaker Aaron Pott learned from an early age from a French waiter that “milk ees for baybees.” From that time on, Aaron knew he wanted to make world-class wines. With the help of legendary mentors such as John Kongsgaard and Michel Roland, Pott crafts wines that exude finesse and charm. Moreover, he loves “the intellectual challenge and the satisfaction of crafting something beautiful for those that will appreciate it.” Drink in this episode with the introspective Aaron Pott.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2016 Blackbird Vineyards Paramour
2016 Blackbird Vineyards Illustration
Famed winemaker Jean-Nicolas Méo (of Domaine Méo-Camuzet in Burgundy, France) and legendary co-founder of IRS Records (think Police, REM, The Go-Go’s, etc.) Jay Boberg met serendipitously at a party in Philadelphia over 25 years ago. Their friendship has led to a remarkable collaboration in Willamette Valley, Oregon, where they make outstanding wines that, “we like to drink.” I invite you to drink in this extended episode with Jean-Nicolas Méo and Jay Boberg of Nicolas-Jay Wines. It will be “music to your ears…”
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Nicolas-Jay Affinités Chardonnay
2017 Nicolas-Jay Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
The Heart’s Delight Wine Tasting and Auction is one of the largest multi-day charity wine events in the country. To date, it has raised over $20 million to help battle heart disease and stroke. And even though the pandemic has prevented in-person participation, it has not dismissed the spirit of the event! Please drink in this special episode with past Heart’s Delight Chairman Brian Kearney, as he invites us all to drink well and do good!
If you are interested in participating in this year’s virtual Heart’s Delight wine auction, please check out the event and register here.
Well, it’s that time of year again. The Girl Scouts of America are on the cookie-march and never has mixing your support of a worthy cause and indulging in a guilty pleasure ever felt so right! In today’s grown-up world, where pairing wine with just about anything that can find its way onto a plate, the notion of including good ol’ Girl Scout cookies in the game has been elevated to an adult-oriented art form. Check out these whimsical pairings to liven up your next PTA meeting!
As just one of a handful of weekly newspaper wine columnists in the country, Dave McIntyre is passionate about wine, climate change and local wines! We talk about why the world smells like wine, heavy bottle blues, Colorado Nebbiolo, and why it’s important to just “pay attention” when you drink wine. Drink in this delightful episode with the one-and-only Dave McIntyre and find out how you can be a more thoughtful wine consumer.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Early Mountain Vineyards “Intention,” Virginia
2017 Red Fox Cellars Nebbiolo, Colorado
Not many daughters would say this about working with their dad every day; “We have so much respect and love for each other and it’s so much fun to work together that it just works.” But that is exactly how Helene Seillan describes her relationship with her father, famed vigneron Pierre Seillan. Together, they craft some of the most award-winning wines in Sonoma County. Drink in this lovely episode with the father/daughter team behind the success of Vérité Winery.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Vérité Winery La Muse
2017 Vérité Winery La Joie
Mark Pisoni works in the vineyards while his brother, Jeff, is responsible for making the wines from their three different sites in the Santa Lucia Highlands in California’s Central Coast. This unique brother team is rare in the wine industry, but their two-heads-are-better-than-one approach results in some world class Pinot Noir! Drink in this episode with Mark and Jeff and see how their different talents come together in the bottle.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2012 Pisoni Ranch Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands
2018 Pisoni Ranch Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands
There are over 3,000 different grape varieties grown around the world, but Jason Haas, the second-generation proprietor and general manager at Tablas Creek Vineyards in Central Coast California, brings all 15 of the grapes found in the Southern Rhone region of France in their vineyards to make wines inspired by Chateauneuf du Pape but still “rooted” in Paso Robles. Drink in the episode with the delightfully dedicated Jason Haas of Tablas Creek Vineyards.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Tablas Creek Vineyards Patelin de Tablas Blanc
2018 Tablas Creek Vineyards Esprit de Tablas
Valerie and Philip Von Burg may come from two different worlds, but they found each other. Then they founded the Wine Foundry, where they get as much joy making wine for others as much as for their own brand. Today, they’re making over 300 different wines for custom individual brands as well as over 20 wines for their own brands. They share both their passion and their secret for success in this episode of the Vine Guy podcast.
Self-proclaimed ski bum Travis Todd and tech entrepreneur Chris Andrew have no formal training or experience in winemaking, yet they jumped into the deep end of the wine pool with their first vintage at De la Boue in the Willamette Valley. The result: two wines as charming and complex as these two friends. One learned to trust his palate, the other already knew to trust his friend. Drink in this extended episode with Travis and Chris who make “dinner friendly” wines and great conversation.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 De la Boue Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley, Oregon
2019 De la Boue Syrah from Columbia Gorge, Oregon
You can’t spell winner without Winn … head sommelier at Bourbon Steak inside the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, DC. Winn shares his wine pairings for a few of Tampa Bay and Kansas City’s famed cuisine. His picks just might surprise – and delight – you. Drink in this fun episode with the talented palate of Winn Roberton.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Remhoogte 'Honeybuch' Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, South Africa
2016 Michael Shaps Wineworks Tannat, Charlottesville, Virginia
Old Town Cellars on Main Street in Park City is changing the wine culture in Utah, one glass at a time. Former ski-jumper-turned-sommelier Stephen MacKay and business-savvy Jason Morgan were childhood friends who reconnected to start the first on-site wine production facility in Park City. The result is an avalanche of great wine. Drink in this interview with two very cool – and talented – skiers-turned-winemakers on this episode of The Vine Guy.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 OTC Mountain Town White
Multi-Vintage OTC Mt. Superior Tempranillo (aged 9 months in Jim Beam, Jack Daniels and Wild Turkey barrels)
Nate and Lauren Belden came from very different upbrings as well as opposite ends of the country. Yet somehow the cowboy and the Manhattanite met, married and together have grown a thriving wine following at Belden Barnes in Sonoma County. Drink in this episode to find out how this “Green Acres” couple has developed a vineyard, a farm, and a very productive wishing tree (over 300 wishes granted – and growing!).
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Belden Farms Estate Grüner Veltliner
2018 Belden Farms Estate “Epiphany” Grenache
Steve Dutton is a fifth generation Californian and together with his brother, they farm over 1,200 acres of land in Sonoma County. He is joined on the podcast by his fiancé, Karissa Kruse, President of the Sonoma County Winegrowers. Together, they talk about the history of Dutton Ranch, Sonoma County, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, wine bras, and love. Drink in the entertaining episode with Steve and Karissa.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2014 Kistler "Dutton Ranch" Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
2014 Dutton-Goldfield Freestone Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir
In this special episode, Scott Greenberg, the Vine Guy, shares his personal recommendations for affordable and delicious Champagnes and Sparkling Wines to ring in the New Year.
Wines Reviewed Include:
Non-vintage Gervais Gobillard Brut Authentique Champagne
Non-vintage Pierre Gimonnet & Fils Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne
Non-vintage Montaudon Grande Rose Brut Champagne
2011 Bertrand-Delespierre Origines Croisees Champagne
Non-vintage La Tordera Prosecco Brunei Brut Italy
Non-vintage Jean-Marc Gilet Vouvray France
Non-vintage J Vineyards Cuvee 200 Brut California
Non-vintage Bagrationi 1882 Reserve Brut Georgia
Non-vintage Schramsberg Brut Rose California
Christi Coors Ficeli’s husband, Dave Ficeli, joins the podcast for this part-two interview where they discuss making micro-lot wines from a tiny rock-hard vineyard. Their extensive American oak barrel program is just one of the many nuanced changes that Dave and Christi have taken on with their passion project, C Elizabeth, honoring four generations of strong women. Best of all, some of the proceeds from the sale of this tiny production are going to first responders in the Napa Valley region. Drink in the heart-warming episode with the charitably minded Dave and Christi Ficeli.
Wines Tasted In This Episode:
2014 C. Elizabeth Cabernet Sauvignon
2017 C. Elizabeth Cabernet Sauvignon
Christi Coors Ficeli always thought she’d follow in her great great grandfather’s famous beer brewing shoes. As a descendent of Adolf Coors, she knew that beer flowed through her veins, but so too did her family’s entrepreneurial spirit. Christi’s first taste of the wine business came shortly after college working for Galo, where she learned the basics of production, distribution, promotion and sales in a family business environment. It was also where she met her future husband Dave Ficeli. Dave’s job took them to Napa Valley were they both fell in love with wine, food and the sense of family that is at the heart of Napa’s agricultural community. In 2012 Christi applied her entrepreneurial spirit when she purchased and revitalized Napa Valley’s Goosecross Cellars. Drink in part one of a two-part episode with the delightful Christi Coors Ficeli.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2016 Goosecross Cabernet Sauvignon Estate $80
2016 Goosecross Holly’s Block Cabernet Sauvignon $180
Cyrus Hazzard is the senior director of Total Wine’s concierge sales department. Wait… what? Total Wine has concierge sales department? Yup, and Cyrus joins the Vine Guy podcast to talk about his career, Total Wine’s dedication to the high-end wine market, and most importantly, his wine picks for Thanksgiving. One of them just might surprise you. Drink in this episode with the oh-so-conversant Cyrus Hazzard.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2015 Au Pied du Mont Chauve St Aubin Charmois from Burgundy, France
2015 Amadieu Gigondas Pas de L’Aigle from Rhone Valley, France
Merry Edwards is a pioneer in Sonoma County, and for the first time, she has chosen another winemaker to carry on her legacy. Heidi von der Mehden was a well-established winemaker who knew her way around Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay production, but she really wanted to make Pinot Noir. Now the head winemaker at Merry Edwards, Heidi has her wish fulfilled and her Pinot cup is overflowing! Drink in this delightful episode with the charming and talented Heidi von der Mehden.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Merry Edwards Winery Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
2017 Merry Edwards Winery Meredith Vineyard Pinot Noir
2018 Merry Edwards Winery Sauvignon Blanc
Michael David Winery has a long history in Lodi, California. The family has been farming the land since the 1860’s and growing wine grapes since the early 20th century. Founders, brothers Michael and David Phillips, are fifth generation grape growers who sold their wines at the family’s fruit stands… until their Seven Deadly Zins exploded onto the market and moved them from roadside sales to a national brand and now a household name. David Phillips joins the Vine Guy podcast to share their remarkable story and the wild ride of Michael~David wines.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Michael David Freakshow Zinfandel
2017 Michael David Inkblot Cabernet Franc
With fewer trick-or-treaters knocking on doors, it’s quite possible that you could very well be left holding you own bag… of candy this year. Don’t let the stockpile of sugary sweetness languish in your plastic pumpkin on the counter all by itself. In this episode, Scott Greenberg, AKA The Vine Guy, shares his annual picks for pairing Halloween candy favorites with wine. Trust me, this is no trick, but a genuine treat that you’ll have fun experimenting with long after the doorbell stops ringing.
Wines Tasted In This Episode:
1996 Broadbent Colheita Madeira
2017 Hirsch “San Andreas Fault” Pinot Noir
2016 Royal Tokaji 5 Puttonyos Red Label
2017 Michael David Six Sense Syrah
Non-vintage Bollinger Special Cuvee Champagne
Alvear “1927” Pedro Ximenez Solera Sherry
2016 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Shiraz
2016 Fonseca Vintage Port
Mendocino County, located on the coast of northern California, approximately equidistant from the San Francisco Bay Area and the California/Oregon border, was originally coined “the emerald triangle.” Today, thanks to Bernadette Byrne, the executive director of the Mendocino Winegrowers Association, Mendocino is now known for producing quality wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, and more. The region is diverse, the family farmed vineyards are quaint, and the wines fly free (on participating airlines). Come visit Mendocino County through Bernadette’s interview on this episode of The Vine Guy.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 McNab Ridge Winery Grenache Rose, Mendocino
2013 Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley
Fred Ryan, Jr has been an aficionado of both wine and White House history for most of his life, and in his new book, Wine and the White House, A History, Ryan takes the reader on a journey through history to reveal just how influential wine has been in diplomacy and social entertaining since the founding of our country. The book is richly illustrated and peppered with fascinating anecdotes from each administration. Drink in the entertaining episode with the incredibly charming Fred Ryan.
Wines tasted in the episode:
2016 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine, North Coast, California
1994 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Ross Halleck is a lover of all things Pinot Noir and so, it turns out, is singer Josh Groban. Several years ago, Josh reached out to Ross and asked him to team up to make a very special blend for a very special project. In addition to Pinot, Ross also makes a wine that usually does not get a lot of attention in California; Gewürztraminer. Drink in the episode with Halleck Vineyard’s Ross Halleck.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Halleck Vineyard “Calendrelli” Gewürztraminer
2017 Halleck Vineyard “Three Sons” Cuvee Pinot Noir
Pamela Wood is a certified wine educator, American wine expert and certified sommelier who traded in her skis for cork screws. Originally from Southern California, Pam’s life changed during a ski trip to Utah after college. Skiing led to a career in hospitality, and that in turn led Pamela to her passion for exploring the world of wine and sharing it with others. Today, Pam is the director of education for the Culinary Wine Institute USA, providing wine sales and service training to restaurants around the country. According to Pam, "The world of wine has something for everyone." Drink in the episode with the enthusiastic Pamela Wood.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Garofoli Verdicchio dei Castello di Jesi Macrina from Marche, Italy
2016 Hewitson Miss Harry “Harriet’s Blend” from Barossa Valley, Australia
When Alex Golitzin started Quilceda Creek back in the 1970s, his uncle André Tchelistcheff, America’s most influential winemaker, told him to do one thing and do it well. Golitzin decided to make Cabernet Sauvignon in the Columbia Valley in Washington state. Today, winemaker Alex Stewart carries on the tradition by crafting some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines in America, using minimal intervention to let the stunning Columbia Valley fruit shine through. Drink in this delightful conversation with the oh-so modest Alex Stewart.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Quilceda Creek CVR (Columbia Valley Red), Washington State
2017 Quilceda Creek Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington State
Certified Sommelier/CEO Consultant Jim Schleckser told me last year during a Vine Guy podcast episode that he was going to write a book about entertaining in a professional setting. Well, he did it! Professional Drinking: A Spirited Guide to Wine, Cocktails and Confident Business Entertaining is out this week and Jim joins me on the podcast to talk about his new book and give a few tips on ordering wine in a restaurant. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the wine game, you’re going to want to drink in this fun and enjoyable episode with my friend, Jim Schleckser.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2015 Badia a Passignano Gran Selezione Chianti from Italy
2015 George Vintage XIII Hansen Vineyard Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley
Robert Hayk is on a mission to introduce Americans to wines they have no idea about, namely wines from Bulgaria. In addition to the incredible value these wines offer, Robert is also obsessed with providing quality in the bottle (or can) and transparency on the label. Drink in this very candid – and politically intriguing – conversation with wine importer Robert Hayk.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Bulgariana Pinot Noir
2018 Rough Day Cabernet Sauvignon
Born in Jamaica, Nadine Brown’s journey from social worker to Sommelier has been an unexpected-yet-rewarding experience. Nadine is considered one of the top wine directors in Washington, D.C., and it’s easy to see why, particularly when she defends her All-American wine list. In this episode, we try a “Las Vegas Showgirl” wine from the “pinch” of Napa Valley and learn about The Veraison Project, a program directed at getting people of color more involved in the wine industry. Drink in this interview with Nadine Brown.
Wines Tasted In This Episode:
2018 Chateau Famaey Sparkling Malbec Rose Pet-Nat
2017 Hour Glass “HGIII” Red Wine from Napa Valley, CA
Dick Rosano doesn’t just write about wine, he is an award-wining home winemaker himself. His passion: Italian wines, and in this episode, he shares what’s going on in Chianti, where the winemakers are challenged to “achieve a balance these days between a modernized style but also one that is soulful and fills your mouth.” Drink in this episode with my friend, Dick Rosano.
Wines tasted in this episode: 2016 Antinori Santa Cristina from Tuscany 2010 Verbena Brunello di Montalcino from Tuscany
“We’d go home at two in the morning, play guitar and drink DRC Échezeaux and Richebourg and not know it was anything special…”
Tim McDonald, chief everything officer of Wine and Spirits Spoken Here, has taken a very interesting road from Las Vegas waiter, to beverage supplier, to wholesale manager, to media consultant, and now head wine judge for several major wine competitions. He likes to think of himself as “wine curious.” What he is is an amazing storyteller. Drink in his story on this episode of the Vine Guy.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Qupe Y Block Chardonnay, Santa Barbara County
2018 Laetitia Estate Pinot Noir
2018 Qupe Central Coast Estate Syrah
Dr. Kevin Atticks, executive director of the Maryland Wineries Association, explains how Maryland has played an important role in America’s wine industry and now has over 100 wineries in the state experimenting with about 200 wine varieties. It’s time to take a hike on the Maryland Wine Trail with Kevin Atticks.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Boordy Vineyards Albariño
2017 Catoctin Breeze Vineyard Estate Syrah
2014 Fiore Winery & Distillery Sangiovese
2017 The Vineyards at Dodon Drum Point Sauvignon Blanc/Chardonnay blend.
Sandra Guibord enjoyed a wonderful career in film and television, but her passion for wine took off when an acting job sent her packing to California. Today, Sandra is an preeminent guide in the wine and spirits community, assisting corporations in entertaining and educating their clients and executives. Her enthusiasm for helping everyday wine consumers select wines for backyard barbecues, business dinners, romantic dates as well as building wine collections is infectious. Drink in this episode with Sandra and find out what World Wine Wednesday is all about.
Wines tasted in this episode
2018 Sella & Mosca Vermentino di Sardegna
Fayssal Bazzi's family was uprooted from their home in Lebanon when Fayssal was just 3 years old. They emigrated to Australia where Fayssal had to quickly learn a new language and culture. Today, he is one of Australia's most talented - and delightful - actors co-starring with Cate Blanchett in the new Netflix limited series, Stateless, available now. This timely refugee drama gives a harrowing look at a broken immigration system. Fayssal plays Ameer, a brave Afghan refugee who flees to Australia to seek asylum with his family. Drink in this episode of the Vine Guy with the extremely talented and humble Fayssal Bazzi.
Wines Tasted In This Episode:
2018 Tyrrell's Beyond Broke Road Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Western Australia
2018 Two Hands Gnarly Dudes Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia
Master Sommelier John Blazon is blazing a trail with the Jackson Family’s high-end Spire Collection of wines. A 37-year veteran within the Hospitality/Beverage industry, John received his master sommelier diploma from the International Court of Master Sommeliers in the fall 2004, becoming only the 59th MS for the American Chapter. Today there are 164 Master Sommeliers in the United States and only 255 worldwide. John has been recognized by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), Santé magazine (“Wine Professional of the Year” in 2003), and the STARWINE International Wine Competition as their “Sommelier of the Year.” Drink in this episode with the ever-so-knowledgeable John Blazon, MS.
John Forrest, and his wife Brigid, are both doctors by training and winery owners by choice. Their lineup of wines in New Zealand covers the gamut from delicious low-alcohol wines (Doctors’), to the hallmark wines of Marlborough (Forrest), to the sumptuous Cote de Beaune-esque wines of the Waitaki Valley (Tatty Bogler). If you don’t think that low-alcohol can’t be sumptuous and complete, think again. Find out what John’s secret is when you drink in this episode with Dr. Forrest.
Wines Tasted in This Episode:
2018 Doctors’ Pinot Noir
2018 Doctors’ Sauvignon Blanc
2018 Doctors’ Rose
2019 Forrest Sauvignon Blanc
2018 Forrest Albarino
2015 Forrest Chardonnay
2015 Forrest Pinot Noir
2017 Forrest Pinot Noir
2015 Tatty Bogler Waitaki Valley Pinot Noir
2018 Forrest Botrytised Riesling
Te Whare Ra (pronounced “too far rah”) Winery is the “oldest small” winery in Marlborough, New Zealand with the oldest vines in the region. Husband and wife Jason and Anna Flowerday – both winemakers in their own right – bought the 35 acre property in 2003. Together, they have brought the vineyard back to life and take great care to farm the land organically for two reasons; first, they genuinely believe it’s good for the land and the fruit, and second, they actually live on the property with their two sets of twin daughters – yes, four girls – and they want a safe place to raise their children. I had the amazing good fortune to meet Anna at the winery’s “cellar door” during a recent trip to New Zealand and take a wonderful tasting tour of their wines. I invite you to drink in this episode with the talented Anna Flowerday.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2018 TWR Sauvignon Blanc
2017 TWR Estate Riesling “D” (for dry)
2019 TWR Estate Riesling “M” (for medium)
2018 TWR Pinot Gris
2018 TWR Gewürztraminer
2018 TWR Chardonnay
2016 TWR Pinot Noir
2015 TWR Pinot Noir Home Block Single Vineyard
2017 TWR Noble Riesling Sticky (Dessert Wine)
Celebrated wine writer, author and educator Elaine Chukan Brown and Stuart Spencer, the executive director of the Lodi Winegrape Commission, join me in the studio for a very special episode of The Vine Guy. They discuss everything Lodi, from the multi-generational farmers who have grown grapes in the area since the mid-1800s to the new innovations taking place in the vineyards. There are a few surprises along the way, including a stunning Albariño and a Cinsault made from vines over 100 years old. Drink in this educational conversation with Elaine and Stuart.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Oak Farm Vineyards Albariño, Lodi, California
2017 Michael David Winery Ancient Vines Cinsault, Lodi, California
2018 St. Amant Winery Marian's Vineyard Ancient Vines Zinfandel, Lodi, California
As the former head winemaker at Beaulieu Vineyards (BV) in Napa Valley, Joel Aiken liked to experiment with a lot of clonal varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon. During his tenure at BV, Joel was responsible for making some of the most storied wines in the history of the century-plus old estate and oversaw some of the most significant changes at the winery. Today, Joel is not resting on his proverbial laurels. His consulting firm is helping several brands make wines that are both stunning and affordable. I invite you to drink in this episode with the legendary Joel Aiken.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Scattered Peaks Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2017 Scattered Peaks Small Lots Cabernet Sauvignon
2006 Beaulieu Vineyards BV1 Cabernet Sauvignon
There are two things you should definitely know about Nicole Salengo, the talented winemaker at Berryessa Gap Vineyards, located in Winters, California. First, she gets bored easily, so she is always looking to take on new challenges – which is a good thing if you are a fan of great wine. Second, she is passionate about crafting wines that are true to their varietal characteristics. Since she is the winemaker for a family who runs one of the most well-respected vine nurseries in California, she is never bored and she is making a lot of interesting wines – 13 to be exact. Drink in this interview with the charming and talented Nicole Salengo.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2019 Berryessa Gap Vineyards Verdejo
2016 Berryessa Gap Vineyards Malbec
2016 Berryessa Gap Vineyards Tempranillo
While St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery is only one of about a dozen wineries in Napa Valley that produces 100% estate grown and produced wines, they’re also just as dedicated to the environment. Under the leadership of St. Supéry’s CEO, Emma Swain, the winery has embraced “Napa Green,” a comprehensive environmental certification program that represents a soil-to-bottle approach to environmental stewardship and winemaking, integrating holistic management practices at every step of the process. Oh, and St. Supéry also makes some stunning wines, focusing on Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Red Bordeaux-style blends. Drink in this episode with the delightfully dynamic Emma Swain.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery Napa Valley Estate Sauvignon Blanc
2015 St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery Rutherford Estate Merlot
Things are just peachy at Peachy Canyon Winery in Paso Robles, California, where second generation owners, brothers Josh and Jake Beckett, along with winemaker Robert Henson, are making “varietally correct” wines from site specific terroir in the Central Coast, including one Zinfandel produced from the original 18 “Heritage” clones found in California. I invite you to drink in this episode with Josh, Jake and Robert in this on the road episode.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Peachy Canyon Winery Heritage Zinfandel
2017 Peachy Canyon Winery Especial Zinfandel
The Mettler family has been farming wine grapes in Lodi for over five generations. Today, they are making award-winning wines from their own vineyards. General manager Kim Mettler and Vineyard Manager (and husband) Jason Eells talk about the passion the family has for sustainable farming and quality winemaking. And find out why Kim refers to her winemaker brother, Adam, as her “little show pony!” I invite you to drink in this episode with Kim and Jason.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Mettler Family Vineyards Epicenter Zinfandel
Non-Vintage Mettler Family Vineyards Copesetic Red Blend
Lucas Payà has worked as a sommelier and beverage director with some of the most renowned chefs in the world, including Ferran Adrià of El Bulli in Spain and José Andrés of ThinkFoodGroup in America. Throughout his career, Lucas has developed a genuine passion for Sherry and has become an advocate of promoting Jerez Sherry pairings – which he claims is the most versatile wine in the world. Today, Lucas is the Sherry House of Lustau U.S. National Brand Educator where, in conjunction with the Regulatory Council of Jerez, he has developed a Certified Sherry Wine Specialist program. I invite you to drink in this extensive interview with Lucas Payà.
Wines tasted in this episode:
Non-vintage Lustau Porto Fino Sherry
Non-vintage Lustau 'Don Nuño' Oloroso Sherry
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
I love wines from the Chateauneuf appellation - located in the Southern Rhone region of France - and until this interview, I thought I knew just about everything there was to know about this wonderful and storied wine region – that is until I met Anne Charlotte Melia-Bachas who showed me what lies on the “other side of the mountain.” Find out what happens on the other side of La Crau, where wild Mistral winds howl and elegance reigns supreme. I invite you to drink in this entertaining episode with Anne Charlotte.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Chateau de la Font du Loup Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc, Rhone Valley, France
2017 Chateau de la Font du Loup Chateauneuf du Pape Rouge, Rhone Valley, France
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
In this On The Road episode, I had the opportunity to catch up with Alberto Tasca, the managing director of his mulit-generation winemaking family, who was recently in San Francisco to receive Wine Enthusiast’s European Winery of the Year. Since 2000, Alberto has been dedicated to leading his family’s efforts in sustainable farming and advancing the quality of wine production from their esteemed estate, Tenuta Regaleali. Today, Tasca d’Almerita is producing some of the best wines in Italy from several of his family’s Sicilian estates. Drink in this special "On The Road" episode with Alberto.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2016 Tascante Contrada Rampante Rosso, Sicily
2014 Rosso del Conte, Contea di Sclafani, Sicily
This On The Road episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Madrid native Laura Diaz Munoz learned her craft in Spain but honed her skills at one of the most prestigious wineries in Napa Valley before being tagged as the head winemaker at Ehlers Estate, on the border between St. Helena and Calistoga. There, she is making remarkable red wines and stellar sauvignon blancs.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2018 Ehlers Estate Sauvignon Blanc, St. Helena, Napa Valley
2017 Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc, St. Helena, Napa Valley
There are not a lot of things in the wine world that Remi Cohen hasn’t accomplished. She has toiled in the cellar and the vineyard, and run a entire winery. She has worked with some of the most well-known names in the industry. Today, as the chief operating officer of Cliff Lede Vineyards, she is now one of those industry icons. Her journey from UC Davis student to leading lady is inspirational. Drink in this special “On The Road” episode with Remi Cohen.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 FEL Savoy Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley
2016 Cliff Lede Vineyards “Soul Fire” Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District
2016 Cliff Lede Vineyards “Poetry” Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District
This On The Road episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Napa native Jeff Cole grew up among the vine of Napa Valley but never thought he’d actually be making wine. He went to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to pursue a career in recreational management but a last-minute twist of curriculum changed his course work and life. Today, he is the winemaker at Sullivan Rutherford Estate, where he is producing elegant chardonnay, beautiful Bordeaux blends, and bold cabernet sauvignon. Drink in this special “On The Road” episode with Jeff Cole.
Wines tasted:
2015 Sullivan Rutherford Estate “James O’Neil” Merlot
2015 Sullivan Rutherford Estate “James O’Neil” Cabernet Sauvignon
This On The Road episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Stergios Tatsis of Domaine Tatsis produces traditional Greek wines from the unique terroir of the Goumenissa appellation. Together with his brother Periklis, they farm about 14 hectares, making natural wines mainly from two indigenous varieties, Xinomavro and Negoska. But isn’t all wine natural? Learn what’s so natural about these wines.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2009 Domaine Tatsis Xinomavro
2004 Domaine Tatsis Goumenissa (65% Xinomavro/35% Negroska)
He went from Madison Avenue in New York City to cellar rat in Napa Valley. With no formal training, winemaker Dan Petroski makes some of Napa Valley’s most prestigious wines at Larkmead Vineyards by thinking about the past and looking toward the future. He applies the same philosophy in contemplating climate change and what can be done to preserve the legacy of Larkmead as well as the rest of Napa Valley’s vineyards. Drink in this episode with Dan Petroski.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2016 Larkmead Vineyards Estate Cabernet
2016 Larkmead Vineyards Dr. Olmo Cabernet Sauvignon
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Marie-Clémentine Savey is the Wine Ambassador from the Chateauneuf-du-Pape region in France. She discusses the amazing diversity of wines from France’s oldest Appellation d'origine Contrôlée and why the pebbles in the vineyards are so important.
Wines tasted in this episode:
2017 Château Sixtine Tradition Rouge
2017 Raymond Usseglio Cuvee Imperiale Rouge
2016 Tour Saint Michel Cuvee Feminessance Rouge
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Eric Platt, president of Artisans and Vines, a boutique wine importer and distributor, joins the podcast to discuss how he scours the globe to find remarkable wines that deliver value to consumers. Listen in to find out which imported wines should be on your radar in this conversation with Eric Platt.
Wine's sampled:
2019 Zonte's Footstep "Scarlet Ladybird " Rose, McLaren Vale, Australia
2017 Zonte's Foostep "Love Symbol" Grenache McLaren Vale, Australia
2016 Domaine Naturaliste "Rebus" Cabernet Sauvignon Margaret River, Australia
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is "Wishful Thinking" by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
In this episode, Erik Segelbaum, 2019 Food and Wine Magazine “Sommelier of the Year,” discusses the impending trade tariffs on French wine -- and other EU Products -- and the far-reaching impact these tariffs will have on American jobs as well as the long-term consequences for American wine consumers.
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Ann Wofford from Woffard Acres Vineyards joins Scott on the podcast to talk about the five-acre vineyard in El Dorado County in California. The vineyard is part of an AVA and Ann shares what visitors to the region can expect and what it is known for.
Wines sampled:
2016 Wofford Acres Vineyards “Bearly There” Merlot, El Dorado County, California
2017 Wofford Acres Vineyards Estate Syrah, El Dorado County, California
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Mauro Di Maggio, is the Managing Director of Cantine San Marzano in Italy. He joins the podcast to discuss his role in a more than 50-year-old consortium of 19 growers in Italy. Stick around to hear about some of the savory wines in his selection.
Wines tasted:
Mauro di Maggio, San Marzano Wines' managing director August 7, 2019
2018 San Marzano Il Pumo Sauvignon Malvasia Salento IGP
2017 San Marzano Talò Negroamaro Salento IGP
2017 San Marzano Talò Primitivo Manduria DOP
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Blair Pence of Pence Ranch Vineyards in California joins the podcast for a reunion with The Vine Guy. Scott and Blair grew up together and have been friends for about 45 years, coming back together again over a shared love of wine. Blair discusses his unlikely path to wine maker: he went from owning a horse ranch to grape farmer to wine maker. He also shares how trips to Burgundy influenced his wine philosophy.
Wines tasted:
2017 Pence Vineyard “Unum” Pinot Noir
2016 Pence Vineyard “Sebastiano” Syrah
2017 Pence Vineyard “Rosa” Chardonnay
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Robert Eden, co-owner of Chateau Maris located in the South of France, joins the podcast to talk about how he went from “cellar rat” to being at the forefront of organic and biodynamic farming at the vineyard. He shares how he brings new life to soil and answers the question, “is all wine vegan?”
Wines sampled:
2018 Maris Zulu Red Blend
2016 Robert Eden Signature Grenache Biodynamic
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Looking for a wine or two to complement your Thanksgiving feast this season? Elyse Genderson of Schneider’s of Capitol Hill shares which ones should be on your table and pair well with everything from the bird to dessert. Also, Elyse is the fourth generation in her family at Schneider’s of Capitol Hill following her father, grandfather, and great grandfather and is bringing a modern twist to the business with a new delivery app and wine concierge service.
Wines sampled:
2014 WesMar Pinot Noir Oehlman Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma
2016 Carol Shelton Florence Vineyard Rocky Reserve Zinfandel, Rockpile, Sonoma
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Mollie Battenhouse, Master of Wine, explains how she goes “20 miles wide and 100 miles deep” when it comes to wine and shares what $5 bottle of wine was her “ah ha” moment when it came to pairing it with food.
Wines sampled:
2015 Stonestreet Upper Barn Vineyard Chardonnay from Sonoma, California
2013 Cambria Estate Tepusquet Vineyard Syrah from Central Coast, California
2009 Nigl Riesling Prevat from Austria
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Peter Fraser is the winemaker at Australia’s Yangarra Estate Vineyard and has been in the role for nearly 20 years. In this episode, he discusses the vineyard’s sustainability efforts and how he’s working to showcase the character behind each wine’s flavor.
Wines sampled:
2017 Yangarra Roux Beaute Roussanne
2016 Yangarra High Sands Grenache
2017 Yangarra King’s Wood Shiraz
2016 Yangarra Ironheart Shiraz
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Winn Roberton is head sommelier at Bourbon Steak located inside Four Season Hotel in D.C., and oversees the wine team there. The Rockville, Maryland, native built up his wine education in Las Vegas before returning to the D.C. area to work at Bourbon Steak. In this episode, he shares tips for aspiring sommeliers and some of the biggest trends to look for in the D.C. food and drink scene.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2006 Pol Roger Vintage Brut Champagne, France
1999 Balgera Rosso di Valtellina, Lombardy, Italy
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Michelle Komes-Dolge is based in D.C. and is part owner of Flora Springs Winery in Napa Valley, California. She worked at WTOP for 15 years, working her way up from assistant to editor to new director and has always had a soft spot for news in the D.C.-area. She chats about her family-owned winery and its mission to remember that farming is at the heart of the business.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2016 Flora Springs Trilogy, Napa Valley, California
2017 Flora Springs Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Kim Longbottom with Vintage Longbottom grew up in New Zealand and moved to Australia to make wine. She shares how the business has evolved and now is a joint venture with her daughter, Margo. Vintage Longbottom’s newest brand is working to appeal to newer, younger wine consumers and the older, more sophisticated wine drinks too.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2018 Vintage Longbottom “H” Sauvignon Blanc
2017 Vintage Longbottom “H” Syrah
2017 Henry’s Drive Shiraz
2017 Henry’s Drive Magnus Single Vineyard Reserve Shiraz
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Rickey Trombetta, the CEO of Trombetta Family Wines in California, stops by to talk about her wines coming to the D.C. area and we sample a few you may want to try out. She got her start in home winemaking and talks about how her wine career has evolved into a family affair after her daughter, Erica, got into the business.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2017 Trombetta Chardonnay, Indindoli Vineyard, Russian River Valley
2016 Trombetta Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
2015 Trombetta Gap's Crown Pinot Noir
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Johan Malan, the co-owner and winemaker for Simonsig winery, shares his family’s history of wine production in South Africa. He also talks about how farming impacts the wine and the importance of sustainability in the vineyard. We finish with several wines you should try to get that real South African flavor.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2016 Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rose
2018 Simonsig Chenin Blanc
2016 Simonsig Redhill Pinotage
2015 Simonsig Frans Malan Reserve
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
The Vine Guy talks with Gus Kalaris who not only owns Constantine Wines, but also is a wine importer/distributor and producer of two big wine brands, Worthy and Axios, as well wines made at his own vineyard in Napa. This Greek/Italian American was born in D.C. and brings some of his heritage to his wines.
Gus talks about his role in the wine world, one of his new wines combining old world and new world flavors and why canned wine is in his future.
Stick around for that and much more in this episode of The Vine Guy.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2014 Telios Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi, CA
2012 Axios Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA
2016 Kalaris Family Vineyards Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley, CA
2015 Philotimo Cabernet/Xinomavro Blend, Greece and California
Special promo: Write ‘Vineguy’ on AxiosWine.com for 10% off your purchase.
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Rachel Martin is a Virginia native and the owner of Oceano Wine s in California. Scott Greenberg talks with her about how she got her start in wines at Boxwood Wines in Middleburg, Virginia, why she’s focusing on chardonnay and pinot noir, and what it’s like to be a female owner of a winery.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2016 Oceano Chardonnay, Spanish Springs Vineyards, San Luis Obispo County, CA
2017 Oceano Chardonnay, Spanish Springs Vineyards, San Luis Obispo County, CA
2018 Oceano Pinot Noir, Spanish Springs Vineyards, San Luis Obispo County, CA
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Former chef Erik Segelbaum was recently named 2019 Sommelier of the Year by Food and Wine Magazine. He shares what wines blow his mind, and the mistakes restaurants make when pairing food and wine. Also, what does it take to make the world’s wealthiest wine consumers happy? Erik has some experience with that as a sommelier on a luxury cruise for wine lovers.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2016 Stephane Aviron Julienas Vieilles Vignes (Gamay), Cru Beaujolais, France
2017 Pecchenino San Luigi Dogliani Dolcetto, Piedmont, Italy
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Scott Greenberg talks with Jim Clarke, a South African Wines Ambassador. Jim shares what makes South African wines special, how they taste different than other wines and which ones you should try.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2016 Simonsig Kaapse Vonkel, South Africa
2016 Hogan Chenin Blanc, Swartland, South Africa
2016 Savage "White" Wine (by Duncan Savage), South Africa
2017 Natte Valley Cinsault, Cape of Good Hope, South Africa
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Peter Mondavi, Jr., who owns Charles Krug Winery -- Napa Valley’s oldest winery and home to more than 500 acres of vineyard land -- talks with Scott Greenberg about how his family came to own the winery, where it’s headed in the future and how the winery gives back to the community.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2015 Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Matt Crafton, a D.C.-area native, is the head winemaker at the esteemed Napa Valley estate Chateau Montelena Winery. He talks with Scott Greenberg about the road he’s traveled from studying economics at a prestigious university on the east coast to winemaking at one of the most famous wineries on the west coast. Matt also shares what changes are in the works at Chateau Montelena as well as what their recipe is for future success.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2017 Chateau Montelena Riesling, Napa Valley, CA
2016 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, Napa Valley, CA
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Join the Vine Guy as he talks with Jim Schleckser, a sommelier who is working on a book about his experiences in the role. Jim stops by to share a few tips about what to know when you’re ordering wine at a restaurant, if corkage fees are worth it and what it takes to be a sommelier. They put each other to the test with a blind tasting – you’ll definitely want to hear how it turns out.
Wines sampled in this episode:
2015 Jordan Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon from California
2005 Latitud 42 Colección Especial Gran Reserva from Rioja, Spain
Find Jim online: ProfessionalDrinking.com, Professional Drinking on YouTube , @ProDrinking on Twitter.
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is “Wishful Thinking” by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Famous wine importer and winery owner John Terlato talks with Scott Greenberg about what it takes to own a winery, why you may want to give Pinot Grigio a try and five factors that make a great wine of the world.
Wines sampled on this episode:
2013 Gaja Barbaresco
2012 Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
This episode is hosted by Scott Greenberg and produced by Sarah Beth Hensley.
Music for this episode is 'Wishful Thinking' by Dan Lebowitz available in the YouTube Audio Library.
Learn more about The Vine Guy, a WTOP News podcast hosted by wine expert Scott Greenberg that covers the wide world of wine.