Have you ever thought about what makes icewine so unique? You might be familiar with dessert wines, but icewine stands out on its own!

In the latest episode of Wine Talks, Paul K chats with Randy Dufour from Arterra Corporation to break down the fascinating process behind this rare and extraordinary wine. Made from grapes that are naturally frozen on the vine and harvested at just the right moment, icewine is truly one of a kind!

Randy covers everything you need to know about icewine–from its rich history and meticulous harvesting method to the winemaking process itself.

Plus, he dives into what sets icewine apart from other sweet wines, including its strict regulations, serving tips, and more.

Are you ready to explore the world of icewine?

Don’t miss out–tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

The making of icewine and its unique flavor profile (02:14)

The history of icewine and its regulations (10:39)

Small yields from icewine production and its cost (12:40)

Differences between icewines and other sweet wines (15:11)

Sustainability in winemaking and packaging innovation (23:36)

The challenges of today’s wine industry (33:35)

How to serve and enjoy icewine (42:17)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Check out Inniskillin Wines: https://www.inniskillin.com/

👉Learn more about Niagara wineries here: https://wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com/

👉Connect with Randy Dufour on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-dufour-98b0bab/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Wine Talks with Angelica Mabray: https://youtu.be/f14_Ib14Z-U

🔸Wine Talks with Stephanie Franklin: https://youtu.be/mmyguoWhsPY

Let’s Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

What happens when a world-renowned luxury jewelry brand like Bulgari decides to create wine?

Giovanni Bulgari, the great-great-grandson of the iconic jeweler, has poured his heart into a different kind of craftsmanship–wine.

In this week’s episode, Paul K sits down with Francesco Poggi, export manager for Podernuovo, to explore the fascinating story of the Bulgari family and how Giovanni transitioned from luxury jewels to fine wine.

Francesco gives us an insider’s view of how Giovanni brought the same high standards of quality from his family’s legacy to his winery, creating wines that honor Tuscany’s unique terroir.

They also talk about the art and science of winemaking, the challenges of navigating global wine markets, the unpredictable nature of the wine business, and more.

Want to learn more about the story behind Bulgari’s winemaking venture?

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Francesco Poggi's journey into the wine industry (00:42)

The Bulgari family’s history and their entry into winemaking (01:25)

Marketing the winery globally and building a brand (17:11)

The importance of patience and long-term vision in winemaking (19:52)

Reception of Podernuovo’s wines in the U.S. (27:31)

Podernuovo’s sustainable practices and the hidden design of their facility (34:09)

How Podernuovo is adapting to climate change (44:53)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Connect with Francesco Poggi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesco-poggi-45211a115/

👉Visit Podernuovo a Palazzone for more information: https://www.podernuovoapalazzone.com/

Watch or listen to this episode:

🔸Wine Talks with Molly Bossardt: https://youtu.be/ZdqzjfBCHwM

🔸Wine Talks with Angelica Mabray: https://youtu.be/f14_Ib14Z-U

Let’s Connect:

🍷IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🍷LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

What does it take to create a wine that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also carries a legacy of history, passion, and spirituality?

Join us in this week’s episode of Wine Talks as Paul K sits down with the esteemed May-Éliane de Lencquesaing, one of Bordeaux’s most seasoned winemakers.

Born into one of Bordeaux’s oldest wine families, May-Éliane, or Lady May as she’s fondly known, has seen it all–from the Great Depression to the German occupation during World War II.

Today, Lady May shares her fascinating story of how these historical events shaped both the wine industry and her family’s vineyards and how she broke barriers as one of the few pioneering women in the industry.

We also dive into the art and science of blending wines, the spiritual connection between wine and humanity, and the crucial role of legacy in a family business.

Don’t miss this captivating conversation with one of the wine industry’s true pillars.

Tune in now and get inspired!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

May-Éliane de Lencquesaing, the Queen of Wine (00:32) 

How the Great Depression and WW II impacted the Bordeaux wine industry (02:26)

May-Éliane’s early experiences growing up in a winemaking family (08:44)

The mysterious nature of winemaking (15:37)

Breaking barriers in a male-dominated wine industry (38:13)

From Bordeaux’s elegant châteaux to South Africa’s thriving vineyards (50:37)

The spiritual connection between wine, humanity, and the divine (1:02:48)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Glenelly Estate for more information: https://glenellyestate.com/

📚 Books Mentioned:

💥My Journey with Wine by May-Éliane de Lencquesaing: https://www.amazon.com/My-Journey-Wine-Bordeaux-Africa-ebook/dp/B0D1L28DN1

💥Wine and War by Donald Kladstrup: https://www.amazon.com/Wine-War-Frances-Greatest-Treasure/dp/0767904486

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

There are few wineries in California history with the legacy of Beaulieu Vineyards. Just the sheer amount of time the winery has survived (including prohibition) and the lineage of serious and infamous winemakers, makes this story a multi episode of Wine Talks. 

Trevor During sat with us to take us through the history of Andre Tchelistcheff (the literal father of California wine) and Beaulieu Vineyards, his own plight and legacy to step in as a steward of the land and wine. 

At one point we speak about the long and storied history of the winery which includes being one of the first "women in wine" stories...really quite remarkable.

This episode is brought to you by Total Wine

We touch on some sensitive but philosophical subjects to dig a bit deeper. Have a listen.

Argentina 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 the story here!

Ever 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. 

In the early days of California wine, the path was uncertain and the risks were high (still are for that matter). Dennis Overstreet had a vision and pusued it relentlessly. Not only did he become the Merchant of Beverly Hills as the name of his store, he also became the legend that one might associate with the monikor "The Merchant of Beverly Hills."

You will learn amzaing backstories and history.

Have a listen. 

It is very often you hear about an American family 10 generations into their contribution to society/ Certainly, you hear of such geneology in Europe; namesake wineries handed down through the generations. 

In this case, it is 10 generations of farmers. Going back to the 1800's, John Bookwalter can tell you of the players and stories that landed him in Washington state's Columbia Valley making wine. 

The history is rare and the wines are great; the old 1-2. Wine is about the story and the stories are thick and real. 

The definition of success is as varied as there personalities to define it. Certainly, you could say that the best selling wines are a success, afterall they make lots of money but as you know, some of these best sellers are hideous wines. So, if you change your sights on what success is in the wine business, I think you will find that this type of success os satisfying and hoenst; the wines are honest and th philosophy is honest. 

Enjoy this wonderful conversation.

Such a bright light in the world of wine and food; and she can create recipes out of thin air. 

Emily Saladino has made her way around both the world of culinary arts and wine to create give herself a comprehensive understanding of the marriage between the two. The conversation was so interesting, we never even got to discuss wine and food pairing...seems like it would have been a natural. 

There were too many philosophical approachs to wine and food to attack, we never got to the practical points of pairing food and wine. You will however, here she answers to some challenging questions that range from the complexity of food versus wine to what do we do to promote the consumption of "honest" wine.

It is intriguing to hear from people in the fight; the fight to expose Americans to good wine and proper food. 

I think you will be charmed.

It is contended that Prohibition was not really repealled...it was just broken into 50 pieces. Navigating this and becoming the 2nd largest distributor of wine, beer and liquor is a formidable task Meet Tim Moore, he is the VP of wine of RNDC (formerly Youngs Market). Listen on how Youngs, as a family owned business, grew to be the 2nd largest player by joining forces with RNDC. 

We discuss the RTD (ready to drink) marketplace for both cocktails and wine, the landscpe of trying to start your own brand and the changing trends in adult beverage consumerism. Folks, this is big picture, a deviation from some of the winemaker conversations we usually have.

I think you will find Tim's opinions insightful and thoughtful...but at the same time, realistic.

Have a listen.

Paul K

These days, you cannot miss the canned aisle in your favorite grocery store. It seems to be taking over more real estate of the wine aisle each month. The category is rather cluttered with competitors..that didn't seem to daunt Jessica Hershfield. Jumping in with two feet, Jessica spent time researching the market, making a couple of mistakes but eventually launching her brand of 250ml canned wines.

But the proposition is unique. What she found missing in the space was vintaged, appelated canned wines; wines of reasonable distinction among the crowded shelves. She is sending them direct to the consumer and has landed the larges distributor in the country (Southern Glazer). Wait until you hear that story.

You will find her charming and articulate.

Cheers.

Wine Talks has has some amazing guests in each of the various disciplines of the wine trade. A few years ago, Vahe was on the show as we mulled over some of the pertinenant issues of the day. This second podcast years later is that much more interesing.

Since our first episode together, so much has changed in the Armenian wine world; a proliferation of new wineries, the addition of European and American know how, real technolgy and added appelations; Vahe is up to speed on all of it.

We met at the graciuosness of the Civilnet studio group (civilnet.am) in their podcast studio and could have spoken for hours. Not only on the Armenian wine trade, but also on the headwinds and motivations to be in this business.

As he slowly hands the gavel to his daughter Aimee, Vahe reveals his own ambitions and aspirations to grow.

Have a listen.

After we recorded this episode of Wine Talks, Mariam entered and won the very first Sommelier event ever held in Armenia. Congratulations.

The fact they even had a sanctioned event such as this in Armenia will tell you how far the Armenian wine culture has progressed. 

In this episode, you will hear from one passionate individual who saw a need and was willing to take a risk to find out if it even really existed. Ten years later and with a total of 1500 sku's in her store, I think we can safely say "yes" there was a need.

Her tasting room, wine shop and Fromagerie was the first in Yerevan and continues to attract both wine intellects and wine novices to explore the burgeoning wine industry in Armenia. 

With an impressive collection of French and Italian wines to compliment her exhaustive ensemble of Armenian wine, there is something for everyone. While there, I took part in my nephews networking event that I was privledged to help select the wines.

Have a listen to a woman in wine is a big way.

Taking on the gib boys is a war. And even just the idea seems a bit crazy, but WarRoom Cellars was founded on just that principal. How do we get under the skin of the big boys?

One idea is to meet the consumer of wine where they live; meaning each of us is on a wine journey and each of us needs to try to get to the next level. Enter the story behind WarRoom Cellars...crafting wines to meet each of us where our current palate is with wine. 

WarRoom creates wines for the novice as well as the enthusiast and by searching for the iconic brands, absorbing them and then elevating those wine, WarRoom has become a quintessential negociante.

They own no vineyards and no winery, but have complete control over the final product. Whether they buy grapes to crush or buy the wines already fermented, they are in control of the quality and the consistency.

Hear their story here.

Have you ever tasted a wine so bad it inspired you to create something better? That’s exactly how Fly Wines was born.

In this week’s episode of Wine Talks, Paul K sits down with Stephanie Franklin, CEO and founder of Fly Wines.

With a background in tech and marketing, Stephanie left her corporate job to venture into the world of wine, bringing a fresh perspective to an age-old industry.

Today, she shares the unique story behind Fly Wines, a wine company that combines the best of both worlds–beautiful packaging with high-quality, artisanal wines from underrepresented regions.

She also talks about her challenges as a woman of color in the wine industry and her mission to expand American palates beyond the typical Napa and Sonoma offerings.

If you’re curious about how quality wine and beautiful design can come together to create a fascinating wine-tasting experience, don’t miss this episode.

Tune in now!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Stephanie Franklin’s journey into the wine industry (00:26)

The inspiration behind the creation of Fly Wines (03:23)

Living life and doing what you love (05:18)

Stephanie’s inspiration for making great wines (14:22)

Finding quality wines in underrepresented regions (16:07)

Enhancing consumer palates with unique wines  (22:52)

Challenges as a woman of color in the wine industry (29:06)

The importance of consumer education in wine (35:45)

Understanding Millennials and Gen Z wine preferences (38:24)

How wine tasting can enhance other aspects of life (41:04)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit Fly Wines for more information: https://flywines.club/

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Nadia Pavlevska drank vodka and coke in Bulgaira. Hardly a precursor to becoming a wine educator and influencer. Now the go to Sommelier for resorts like The Terranea in Palos Verdes, Nadia had taught wine with a logical and pratical outlook. 

Her reposnses to wine, politcal and life-style question might suprise you...no, will suprise you. She headed west making stops in Salzburg, Austria, Sacramento, California and now in the beach cities of Southern California. Her thirst (pun intended) had brought her numerous accolades and certificates of wine knowledge. 

And lets not forget that she has a degree from my Alma Mater, the University of Southern California.

She will inspire you. She will educate you. She will entertain you.

Her life story takes on many adjectives. Inspring is one. Painful is another. Worldly could say it. But driven would be the word I would use. When you face headwinds, you must put your headdown; Brooke has and continues to do that. A model, a pageant winner, a Catholic, a Muslim, a mother and a wife has prepared her for a career that is completely unique; she motivates the motivators. Working with some of the great self-help motivators like Anthony Robbins, Brooke brings to the table a worldy view of how to move the needle. 

I think you will find this a "fascinating" conversation and inspiring too.

Sometimes it is just obvious why someone is successful. Certainly, your personal definition of success comes into play but if you define "success" as getting what you want out of life and never letting moss grow under your feet...you and Katies Hamilton Schaffer are from the some cloth. 

Katie's energy is infectious which turns to inspiring the more you peel her back. Soccer, wine, charity, and film define this girl...for now.

It seems to me that when biting off a new project, one might want to dip their toe in the water to see how it feels, not Katie, she is completely emersed before her on-lookers can blink,

I know one thing for sure, during our next trip up to the Napa Valley, I am stopping in...if not just to fuel up on energy.

His LinkedIn profile calls Marc out as "Noted Celebrity Sommelier" and I couldn't agree more. When you have been around the industry in the various capacities as Marc, you can call yourself whatever you want...but it does help that it is an accurate description...and his is accurate.

We go deep into consumerism, bulk wine manufacturing, and general wine insider discussion. He agrees that wine is a complicated subject but we all land on learning what we feel compelled to learn and drink the wines that makes us feel something as indivisuals.

This podcast needs to be a 2-parter in that we didn't even scratch the surface on all the subjects we needed to approach.

Have a listen.

Romik Arconian bit at the dream.  He was in the wine trade working in Paris. He loved what he was doing. As with most of us in this industry, the idea of owning a Chateau swirled around in his head. Seeming like an unattainable dream, he left it on the back burner.

As fate would have it, Chateau Canon Chaingneau become available and a the idea of owning a Chateau in the Lalande de Pommerol appelation became a reality. The other reality was Covid. The pandemic hit and soon this dream of owning a Chateau became a nightmare (maybe "nightmare" is a bit too strong). 

Romik and his family have jumped in with two feet and are navigating the headwinds to getting a wine to the world wide market; things are starting to free-up.

Landing distributors throughout the world and focusing a bit on direct-to-consumer sales, Chateau Canon Chaigneau is getting traction. The price point is perfect, the wines are exemplary and the energy is high.

Have a listen.

Opus One is not only iconic in the world of Napa Valley wine, it is iconic throughout the world in the world of wine. 

As a joint develpment between the French and the Americans, it represents so much more than just fine wine. Consider the preeminant French Bordeaux family, the Mouton Rothschilds and the preeminant Napa Valley family, the Mondavis, joining forces to create a winery of iconic quality but of iconin architecure as well. 

Sitting with Mike Silacci is sitting with Napa royalty. You would never know of his stature among winemakers in the world, you would never know of his vast knowledge, and you would never know of his unwavering passion until you ask; his humility is exemplary.

WIne is a tough racquet. You have heard this before. Sometimes we all learn through trial and error, our failures and sometimes our successes. But as Calvin Coolidge says "perserverence is omnipotent."

Nothing could be more true for Austin Hope. The Hope family farms have been a staple in Paso Robles for 50 years and they are still adapting to the not only the changes in climate, but the wine industry as well.

When you sit with an Austin Hope and hear about the headwinds and the decision making that ensued, you get a better glimpse into the efforts it takes to make good wine, to make wine people will want to buy and to make wine that as brand awareness.

This is in the top ten of Wine Talks conversations.

There is no standard path to get into the wine busines. Ask 100 people and you will get 100 answers on landing on the passioln it takes to make, market or sell wine. Garys story is one for the books. 

When you have seen as many changes in the wine business as Gary has, you learn a 6th sense about people, wine, business and life. Gary might have a 7th sense. 

Wisdom doesnt come cheap and innovation in any sector of business can be risky. The key is recognizing the opporutinty, crafring a quick response and exectuing that response efficiently. 

When most of us during COVID enjoyed a nice 30-40% bump in sales, learn how Gary doubled sales volume in his New Jersey stores through customer centric marketing and delivery. 

We could have spoken for another hour and still not covered all the subjects ahead of us. 

Have a listen to the owner of Garys Wine Marketplace in Saint Helena.

It takes inspiration to make wine. It takes a dream. It takes ambition. It takes hard work. Jay Nunez has all these traits and more. 

But the most important trait it takes to make honest wine is philosophy. Wine is part science but mostly art. We might find AI in the winemaking game one day (don't ask me how) it might make solid wine every time...but it won't make passionate wine. It won't make the kinds of wines that Jay philosophizes about, the type of wine Jay dreams of as he is picking the grapes.

We went to the heart of the subject of what our roles are as stewards of the land and of the industry. We are just passing through, we have to leave it in better shape than when we arrived. This is the type of approach that AI would never be able to understand. It takes soulful reflection and knowledge to do what Jay does. 

Jay takes a risk each day he comes to work; most winemakers do. For Jay, each day is a chance to do better the the previous day, to learn from a mistake and move on. Have a listen to who seems to be to me an "old soul" in the wine trade.

GiniFest is a Los Angeles bred wine festival that features the wine making skills of both indigenous Armenian winemakers but Armenian winemakers in the diaspora as well. A very professionally done show and an opportunity to showcase incredible wines of great distinction.

Wine Talks played host to (3) of the wine families who attended this years GiniFest and Stepan Bagdassarian of Wines of Armenia dot com. 

Really quite inspiring to hear the plights and objectives of a group seeking world recognition of their wines.

Imagine creating a world-class wine from grapes no one’s heard of—a wine that carries the history of a place and the resilience of its people. That’s exactly what Jerry Eisterhold, founder of TerraVox Winery in Missouri, is doing.

Today, Jerry joins Paul K to discuss the highs and lows of his experimental journey–from discovering North America’s forgotten native grape varieties to the painstaking process of turning them into award-winning, food-friendly fine wines.

This conversation tackles the challenges of working with unfamiliar grapes, the historical significance of these grape varieties, the innovative techniques applied to bring them to the world’s attention, and more.

Curious to know what the future of American wine tastes like?

Tune in now to learn more!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

TerraVox Winery and its indigenous American grapes (00:45)

Winemaking challenges with lesser-known grapes (04:37)

TerraVox’s goal with Missouri’s native grapes (09:57)

Grape varieties suitability for winemaking (15:20)

Innovations in wine styles using old and new techniques (21:08)

Top factors in choosing the perfect grape planting location (25:08)

The potential for establishing terroir with these unique grapes (29:28)

TerraVox marketing strategy and the importance of local support (33:37)

The aging potential of TerraVox wines (38:22)

Jerry’s approach to making Rosé wines with unique grapes (41:47)

Local community’s response to TerraVox's lesser-known grapes (43:34)

How Smithsonian Magazine discovered TerraVox (45:10)

Significance of producing American wines from indigenous grapes (47:51)

Episode wrap-up (52:28)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Visit TerraVox Wine for more information: https://terravox.wine/

Watch or listen to this episode:

👉Interview with Jeff and Kathy from Uncorked: https://youtu.be/HxccfBklg34

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

May is the anniversary month of the Judgement of Paris and we are celebrating by hearing from the very players who tool part in this famed event.

Bo Barrett was in the cellar when Mike Grgich crafted the 1973 Chardonnay. Little did they know the history they were about to make and literally change the world wide acceptance of California wine forever. 

Have a listen to Bo Barrett, President of Chateau Montelena and cellar rat in 1976.

Celebrating Judgement of Paris month.

When Mike Grgich came to America, he had sewn $32 into the sole of his shoe, that's all he had to his name. He arrived in Saint Helena without a plan or a job but became one of the most influential winemakers in California's history.

In May of 1976 when the California wines beat the French wines in a French-judged tasting, the wine world was changed forever, Mike Grgich was the winemaker at Chateau Montelena and was the man who slayed the French white Burgundies with his 1973 Napa Valley Chardonnay. 

Meet Violet Grgich, the current GM at Grgich Estates to hear the real story.

The holy grail of the restauranteur is to be recognized by the Michelin Guide. Though the guide has various levels of accolades for the restaurants it reviews, the best restaurants are awarded stars; 1,2 or 3. These stars are coveted and suggest the Chef has mastered his craft from the cuisine to the hospitality. The pandemic caught Chef Dave at a disadvantage and he lost his star at Pasjoli...and he wants it back.

Have a listen and hear about his philosophy not only of the cuisine but on the management of the restaurant. I think you will find it refreshing.

The anniversary month of the Judgement of Paris Is May.

The Judgement of Paris is considered one of the single most influential even for American wine….ever. Meet the only journalist to bother showing up.

George Tabor was with Time magazine at the time. Living a dream in Paris, he decided to attend a wine judging event. He was the only journalist who showed and that became his fame. Meet George Taber the man with the story because he was there. 

Influencers are a new marketing tool. Some have more influence than others. Jamie, as part of corporate retirement, decided to TikTok some wine information videos...and voila, influencer. What started as a hobby turned to a commitment. As a collector he learned about wine but turning influencer he really learned about wine. 

This influencer journey took him to a place he never expected and ultimately became the proprietor of a successful and embedded wine shop in Ohio.  Learn about his trip to the promise land of wine retailer.

This was a particulalry interesting interview because I have a jadded view of most influenceer marketing and it was so encouraging to see the path end up in the thick of the world he was influencing. You can trust his opinion.

Cheers.

So you want to own a winery in Italy, Germany, France? you name it....Bettina can fill your needs. Oh, and she will sell you a winery in Napa too!  Listen as we role play as a potential client who wants to buy a winery in Montalcino, Italy. All of us look in on the lifestyle of a vineyard owner and think "this is my dream." And for many, it is a dream that comes true...but then to find out what the real dream is...but then again, there are those that make their dreams come true and it is exactly of not moreso what they hoped.

Have a listen to Bettina Kurz of Viva-Business

You can't help but be in complete aw when speaking with Dan Berger. He has been writing about wine for so many decades that when he writes about wine, he transcends normal conversation. And because of this cast experience, you don't feel intimidated by this knowledge, you leave inspired. 

Have a listen as we catch up of Riesling, the industry, wine writing and dozens of more subject...there never seems to be enough time when speaking with Dan.

There is so much "inside baseball" in the wine trade. We all know what each other is doing. There are not many secrets and when one is exposed...well, it is no longer a secret. What is fascinating to me is the consistent attempts to create something new. For 35 years, new ideas have crossed the tasting room here and none of them are really new; just regurgitated ideas from previous generations. How can there be anything new...the product is over 9000 years old. Putting wine in different container is changing anything except the container... but when it comes to the actual manufacturing of wine...what is new? Certainly, there are contemporary processes that help with character or life but the core of winemaking has and is always the same: Ferment grape juice.

Have a listen ...

In 1969, Ed approached Palos Verdes Wines and Spirits to sell my father advertising space in the Peninsula News; thus started a love affair with wine. Ed wrote the book, Shortcuts On Wine as a simple approach to understanding wine and has lectured at UCLA and many adult schools and has made wine and has worked in most facets of the wine industry. 

Not only is it educational when he stops by but entertaining as it seems his filter is waning.

We talk of the old days, the current days, and the days ahead on wine. Have a listen to the grand master, Ed Masciana.

Picture this: You've just uncorked a bottle of 1982 Château Lafite Rothschild, a wine you've dreamed of tasting for years. The anticipation builds as you pour the deep red liquid into your glass, swirl it gently, and take in the aroma.

But something's off. The bouquet isn't quite right. The taste? Disappointing, to say the least.

What if I told you that the $500 bottle you just opened might be a fake?

In our latest episode of Wine Talks, we sit down with Maureen Downey, the world's leading expert on wine fraud. She reveals shocking truths about the counterfeit wine industry that will make you think twice about your next premium purchase. 

Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, 25% of all alcohol consumed globally is illicit? That's right - there's a 1 in 4 chance that the wine in your glass isn't what you think it is.

But don't worry. We're not just here to scare you. Maureen shares tips on:

• How to spot counterfeit wines

• The history of wine fraud (it goes back to ancient Rome!)

• Cutting-edge blockchain technology that's revolutionizing wine authentication 

Whether you're a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, this episode is a must-listen. It might just save you from pouring your hard-earned money down the drain. 

Ready to become a savvy wine consumer? Click to listen to the full episode now. 

Key Takeaways

Intro (00:00)

Maureen Downey, expert on fake wine (01:07)

Importance of wine tasting language and education (03:37)

Wine fraud prevalence and World Health Organization statistic (07:10)

Pliny the Elder wrote about counterfeit wine in 70 AD (10:18)

Counterfeiting methods and challenges in authentication (15:36)

Blockchain solutions to authenticate and track wine (26:31)

Recent wine theft case and industry vulnerabilities (30:32)

Issues with the three-tier system in US wine distribution (43:25)

Wine counterfeiting and blockchain technology (51:02)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉 Learn more about wine authentication: https://www.chaiconsulting.com/

👉 Maureen Downey's platform for resources on combating wine fraud: https://winefraud.com/

👉 Rudy Kurniawan case: Sour Grapes (Documentary): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5728684/

Watch or listen to this episode:

👉John Wilkinson of Bin to Bottle: https://youtu.be/JEXqUi72h0k

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

As your first soirée into wine study, one might say study Bordeaux and particularly the Classification of 1855. Here Napoleon III ordered a ranking of wine of the Medoc for the Paris Exhibition of 1855. Here you will find fascinating wines, fascinating history and fascinating pedigree. And that is what we have here in this podcast with Guillaume-Alexander Marx.  

The four first growth Bordeaux (now there are five) were Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau La Tour, Chateau Margaux and todays podcast subject, Chateau Haut Brion.  

Wine is about the story....most of life actually is about the story. But something about wine connects one to the earth through the wine, through the story. 

I think you will be intrigued by the story and the history to be told about Chateau Haut Brion.

She came home from work and had a hankering for a glass of wine and as she reached to open, her husband made a face. "What?" she inquired. "You are just going to drink one glass and waste the rest!" he replied. Thus was born the idea of Wander and Ivy wines; a single serve flight of wines from all over the wine world served in187ml bottles (a 1/4 of a bottle.) Dana has been featured on many podcasts and written about in many trade magazines Though the idea of 187ml bottles of wine is not new, the packaging and presentation has never been addressed. Enter Dana and her entrepreneurial spirit. Hear of the headwinds and successes.

Wine is really about history. What other product do you deliberately wit 20 years to explore, what other product can you take half way around the world and say “This is who we are and when we are”
 
I was thinking about the phrase after my conversation with Kira and with picture perfect recollection of wine history, the saying needs to be “This is who were and when we were before that.” Meaning, the history of the culture if wine rolls up to secure a place in the next bottling. For Kira, her vast knowledge of the history of wine has created a mindset with making wine that, in my opinion, is reflected in her wines. I think you will find the conversation stimulating, fascinating, and inspiring.

What is fascinating about the Italian wine scene is the variety and distinct differences between their primary wine regions. And don’t look over the fact there are over 2000 wine varieties in Italy, some still being discovered today. Emiliano Morando visited Wine Talks to walk us through the history of this wine region in the north west of Italy.  the geography of Piemonte hosts many influences to create wines of grit to wines of elegance. Have a listen.

The minute she walked into the studio, the crew knew this conversation would have little restraint. A practice communicator of not only all things wine but wine with the Latin market. Her tag is The Modern Pour and she is dynamic and funny. Her tagline is “not a pale male stale giving wine advice” and that she ain’t. You will be educated and entertained by Elle and her outlook on wine… and life! Have a listen.

Understanding Italian wines takes study and patience. With over 2000 wine grape varieties in the country, it is hard to sort them out. When you break down the country, there is a bit more clarity with grape varieties but little local varieties will confuse you. Umbria, just south of Tuscany, follows suit. Unlike its northern neighbor, it does not grow Sangiovese as the mainstay red grape but grows Sagrantino instead. Valentino Valentina will sort it all out for you.

There is so much to know and understand about the wine diversity just between the two islands, let alone the wine diversity among each island, that New Zealand is recognized with exemplary wines. Simone Kelly stopped in for a conversation and helps us get the lay of the land as we start in the North and work our way down. The Seresin wines are firm in structure and give great insight into where they are grown. Have a listen.

Walking the aisles of the Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas earlier this year, a gentleman stuck a sparkling wine glass in my face and said “Do you like wine?” I responded, “Is this a joke?” He went on to tell me that this was an Italian non-alcoholic sparkling wine that he and his wife had created. I have tasted many non-alcoholic wines and they all suck. With trepidation, I tasted it. This was a decent wine. I was shocked and impressed. Come on my show I said…turns out he is in So Cal and I met Marco Marano. 

Wine Talks first sat with Rex in 2021 as he was pondering a Sideways musical. In just a few years, the musical is touring Spain to sold-out crowds and he is holding Sideways concerts in Napa Valley. We caught up with Rex in Napa Valley recently to find out what he had up his sleeve and to recapture some of the great moments in the movie. Rex explained the complicated relationship between the author and screen writer and more importantly tells us of the new stuff coming down the pike. I, for one, am anxious to read the next story. Have a listen.

Do you sometimes feel intimidated by wine? You’re not alone. But what if I told you that wine is more accessible than you think?

Meet Chasity Cooper, a Chicago-based wine writer and entrepreneur who’s been shaking up the wine world.

With a background in marketing and a passion for wine that took her from Syracuse University to the vineyards of Spain, Chasity has carved out a unique space in this industry. She’s not just an incredible wine culture expert but also a champion for diversity and inclusion.

Today, Chasity shares her journey into wine and the challenges faced by people of color and women in the wine industry.

We also talk about her insights on the natural wine movement, the impact of social media on wine culture, the importance of sustainability in winemaking and more.

Let’s jump right in!

Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)

Meet Chasity Cooper (01:15)

What is natural wine and its impact on the industry? (02:48)

How Chasity fell in love with wine (10:36)

Challenges for women and people of color in the wine industry (14:20)

Social media’s role in educating new generations of wine drinkers (26:26)

Sustainability in winemaking and its growing importance (34:13)

Empowering wine drinkers to explore beyond familiar labels (38:58)

Celebrating black women in the food and beverage industry (46:29)

The non-threatening nature of wine (51:37)

Wine is the Best Medicine: Q&A challenge (55:05)

Additional Resources:

👉Learn more about Wine Talks: https://www.winetalkspodcast.com/

👉Watch the YouTube full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcE_nUpOKHY&list=PLVPoDzlH3_n8rqmofwcCQvOi_3Ci66bu_

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WineTalksPodcast?sub_confirmation=1

👉Follow Chasity on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bychasitycooper/

👉Check out Chasity’s wine blog: https://chasitycooper.com/wine-blog

Watch or listen to this episode:

👉Kira Ballotta’s approach to wine: https://youtu.be/kVsc7gJ2Nn4

Let’s Connect:

🔸IG: https://www.instagram.com/winetalkspodcast/

🔸LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kalemkiarian-a792914

–

Wine Talks with Paul K is the ultimate podcast for serious wine lovers who want to know everything about the wine business. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this podcast will introduce you to the wonderful world of wine, one story at a time.

Follow Wine Talks with Paul K on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Once in a while, you run into someone who is a force of nature and come away with “I want her on my team.” This is Jessica Kogan. You must realize that sometimes there are people smarter than you and that there are people that have landed in their rightful place with an innate understanding of their craft. This is Jessica Kogan. There are those people who when you leave their presence have to reflect on what just happened. This is Jessica Kogan. Listen for yourself to see if you agree…

Etude is exemplary in its approach to sustainability. When Jon told me during our interview that the sheep were out on the south 40 aerating and churning the soil and mulching the vegetation, it conjured up a vision of old.  This type of farming and wine production is a discipline more than a method. It is too easy to let the process go for simpler less sustainable methods. And for Jon, the discipline is real.  We got into the weeds (pun intended) on farming, winemaking, community responsibility, and life. Have a listen.

The concept of organic wine farming is really quite old.  If you think about it, vineyards were organic for thousands of years before the invention and use of pesticides. Katrina and her husband were the first certified organic vineyards in California and if that wasn’t enough, they became the first biodynamic vineyard certified in California. A fabulous conversation that took us in many directions…but one thing is for sure, the wines are extraordinary and are exemplary versions of organic examples. You may want to hear her answer when I mentioned that “if we fertilize with horse $hit, won’t the wine taste like horse $hit?”