Somm Women Talk Wine – Details, episodes & analysis

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Join us this episode on a road trip to New Mexico to visit the team at Vivác Winery. Brothers Jesse and Chris Padberg share their journey from college students and European explorers to winemakers. With an adventurous spirit and the perfect location for growing grapes, their story continues with award winning wines and a lot of fun.

Vivac Winery in Dixon, 45 minutes northeast of Santa Fe and 2 hours from Albuquerque, is known for producing high-quality wines in an artistic setting. Vivac focuses on sustainable winemaking and uses handpicked grapes to craft their wine.

The tasting room is set in a beautiful, scenic location near the Rio Embudo, making it a perfect destination for wine lovers looking for an authentic experience. Vivac’s picturesque property of 11 acres sits along the banks of the Embudo Creek.

While not the Rio Grande River or Rio Grande Valley, it’s a prime source for irrigation when needed and keeps the air flowing through the vineyards even during the hot summer heat. The vineyards are a few miles down the road from their winery tasting room off the main highway.

Wine isn’t the only delicacy at the tasting room! If you’re like me and crave chocolate with your Merlot, you’re in luck! Liliana, Chris’s wife, is a Chocolatier! Her Ek.Chuah Chocolates are serendipitously sold in the tasting room!

Cheers to the Vivác team and we cannot wait to go back for another visit. If NM is in your future travel, give Jesse and Chris a shout and we're sure they'd love to welcome you!

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Charisse and Kristi

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You may never have heard of the Cotes of Bordeaux. Great, we're here to share this amazing Bordeaux appellation and Bordeaux wine with you through our interview with Bruno Lallemand from Chateau Couchebout in the Cotes de Bourg region. Neither Left Bank nor Right Bank, Couchebout produces amazing red wines in their own Bordeaux red blend style. Cabernet, Merlot, and Malbec taking center stage while Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc are more common grape varieties in other Bordeaux Appelations.

Wineries, or château, such as Couchebout thrive in the unpredictable weather patterns found in Bordeaux as they plant their hectares with the best red varietals for Mother Nature's surprises. Search Bordeaux maps for the Côtes and you'll find Blaye, Castillon, Cadillac and Francs, but Bourg plays it's own game keeping separate from the others. Bruno shares why this is so and also ties into our TRENDS series with stories on the winery's sustainability, alternative packaging for local wine and other stories of his wine adventure, travels and guide to the region!

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Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

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@somm_women_talk_wine
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@charissehenryfw
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All episodes are also on our website:
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Charisse and Kristi

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In this exciting episode of Somm Women Talk Wine, we are honored to have Chris Keel, the owner of Put A Cork In It, a favorite Fort Worth wine shop, and a Vinitaly Ambassador, as our guest. Join us as we deep dive the world of lesser-known white Italian wines, revealing the hidden gems that make Italy the "go to" location for wine enthusiasts.

While Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc often steal the spotlight, Italy's diverse wine regions offer a plethora of unique white wines that deserve way more attention than they receive. Chris Keel, with his deep expertise in Italian wines, takes us through a curated selection from regions from the north in Piedmont,  Alto Adige, and Venezia Giulia, south to  La Marche and Campagnia.

Chris kicks off our exploration with Gavi from Piedmont made with the Cortese grape, and we deep dive into the aromatic Soave from Veneto crafted from Garganega.  While we don't specifically cover it, we highly recommend your  wine exploration can continue into Venezia Giulia, discovering the unique characteristics of grapes that thrive in this picturesque region.

Our journey continues in the northern region of Alto Adige, known for its crisp, citrusy wines. Here, wines include the vibrant flavors of Trebbiano and the fresh, light notes of local Pinot Bianco wines. 

We travel a bit south to explore the versatility of Vermentino from Liguria and Sardinia, and the rich, complex flavors of wines from Campania such as Greco, Fiano, and Falanghina.

Moving further south to Lazio, near Rome, Chris educates on how the region's unique terroir influences its distinctive white wines including Grechetto and Trebbiano. This region is increasing its focus on natural wine, a growing movement that emphasizes organic and sustainable winemaking practices, offering wine lovers an authentic and unadulterated tasting experience.

While we don't touch on them, we cannot forget the classic red wines like Chianti (Sangiovese), Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, as well as the effervescent joy of sparkling wine. But stop in and visit Chris. He'll provide valuable tips on selecting great wines at an affordable price, making the world of Italian wines accessible to everyone.

Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious novice, this episode is packed with recommendations to enhance your wine journey. 

So, pour yourself a glass of your favorite Italian white wine, sit back, and join us on Somm Women Talk Wine as we uncover the rich tapestry of Italy's lesser-known white wines. Let Chris Keel's passion and expertise guide you through this delightful exploration, and get ready to discover new favorites that will elevate your wine-tasting experience. Cheers to the vibrant world of Italian white wines!

Join Put A Cork In It's Monthly Italian Wine Club today!

Tune in now and read on for a deep dive into the captivating stories and flavors that make Italy's white wines truly exceptional.

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Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

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All episodes are also on our website:
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Charisse and Kristi

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Ever wonder what it takes to create a new California Sparkling Wine? Tune in as Somm Women Talk Wine interviews Weston Eidson and Russell Bevan, two world-renowned winemakers who partnered on Weston's vision to create magic in a bottle of bubbles.  Created in the traditional method with a whole lot of patience and more blending and tasting than one can imagine, this wine is a passion project for perfection.

In this episode of Somm Women Talk Wine, Weston and Russell take us through the exciting journey of creating Westborn. From selecting the perfect sites in Napa Valley, Russian River Valley and  throughout the North Coast wine region, to blending countless barrels of wine, they share the meticulous process behind crafting the exact style, flavor, and experience Weston envisioned years ago. Their passion is palpable, and while we can’t pop the cork or sabre a bottle just yet, we’re certain it will be ethereal!

Both Weston and Russell are familiar voices on SWTW, and we’re grateful for their continued support of our podcast. Russell previously shared his enthusiasm for his PerUs project during the height of 2023's harvest. Missed it? No worries! Listen again here: Russell Bevan: Winemaking.

We also had an unforgettable live podcast with Weston, featuring his Silver Ghost and Montagu Pinot Noir. It was our first live recording, and we had a blast. Check it out: Weston Eidson: A Live Chat with the Winemaker and His "Vertical".

We can’t wait to get our hands on a bottle of Westborn, but until then, we’re thrilled to share the story behind this exceptional sparkling wine from two of the industry’s most respected winemakers.

If you're like us and cannot wait, here's the link to explore becoming a club member before the first bottles of Westborn ship!

What’s a Somm Women Talk Wine episode without a WINE FIND? This time, we’re highlighting COLORED WINE GLASSES! Whether you opt for the luxurious Estelle or the cute, fun, and affordable options by TOSSWARE on Amazon, you're sure to elevate your table setting.

Cheers to the debut of a fabulous California Sparkling Wine – Westborn!

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi

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Temperatures are heating up and our natural instinct is to shift from red to white wine to tame the sweltering summer temperatures.  SWTW takes on the task of finding the perfect chilled summer red wines perfect for every occasion!  From Lambrusco to Syrah and a few in between, we hit the highlights so you, too, can pop the cork on red wine throughout the dog days of summer. Tune in for a few of our summer wine suggestions.

What are the key elements which make a red variety perfect for serving at cooler temperatures (45-55 F)?  High acidity, red fruit flavors, thin skins for low tannins, and lower alcohol!  Winemakers pick grapes at the perfect point, likely on the early side, to achieve the crunchy, bright, light, fruity, summer red wine style needed to put on the chill. There's truly nothing better than a light bodied red served chilled on a summer evening.

Lambrusco is a moderately fizzy red made in the same way as Prosecco.  Grape varieties are little known Maestri, Marani, Montericco, and Salamino and translate to vibrant fuchsia deliciousness in the glass.  Gamay, most famous in Beaujolais as well as Pinot Noir are definitely in the perfect wheelhouse for summer chillables!  SWTW faves include Louis Jadot Beaujolais Village and our previous guest Morét-Brealynn Wines Pinot Noir. What's not to love!?!

The most surprising star of the summer chilled summer red wine show is cool climate Syrah!  We'll let you listen in to the story, but Division Wine Co's Gamine wins our vote along with Unison Vineyard's New Zealand "And Relax"! Chilling red summer wines is all the rage from New York state to South Africa!

Summer is here and we think it's the perfect time to put the chill on a great bottle of fruity red and sip your way through the season!

Cheers!
Charisse & Kristi

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi

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A Cali girl through and through, Morét Brealynn, has done it all when it comes to wine.  From tasting room host to marketeer.  From event planner to any odd task she could get involving grapes.  Her passion and experience from some of the top wineries in Napa and Sonoma (you’ll have to listen to learn which ones!) gave her a phenomenal foundation the good ole fashioned way - OJT (on the job training).

Moving into her fourth harvest as the head winemaker for her own label, Morét-Brealynn Wines, Morét now calls the shots. We think she’s pretty darned good at it too!  With a refined palette and passion for California Pinot Noir, she’s tackling everything from purchasing barrels to walking the vineyards to identify the exact moment of perfect ripeness of the grapes in her wines. Her fingerprint translates to wines which are seductive, yet playful. Linked to tradition, yet innovative. All with her own personal touch.

Giving back and having fun is also key in who Morét is and what she represents as a female as well as a minority (100% Mexican) in the industry.  She also serves as a Board Member of Wine Women, a women focused non profit and supports local animal shelters in her free time.  When a glass of wine isn’t in her hands, you’ll likely find a golf club there instead. She truly is the Queen of California Pinot Noir

We know your curiosity is piqued and you’ll want to try Morét-Brealynn Wines for yourself - good news!  Simply go to https://moretbrealynnwines.com and use SOMMWOMEN in the coupon code for 20% off all individual wines! (Bundles excluded)

Join us as we explore Morét’s journey from the tasting room to head winemaker - of course it wouldn’t be Somm Women Talk Wine without a little fun along the way!

Cheers!
Charisse & Kristi 

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi

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What possibly could Captain Cook‘s exploration of the Fiordland of New Zealand’s South Island and world class wine have in common? Greg Hay, Wet Jacket Wine’s own Captain, leads the team toward a vision of precision, exploration and legacy. Hay founded several of Central Otago’s renowned wineries (Chard Farm and Peregrine). With Wet Jacket, he set out to do something more visionary to fulfill a spirituality in his quest to link land and sea.

Wet Jacket’s lineup breaks the stigma of New Zealand = Sauvignon Blanc. For those who have the opportunity to explore, seeing the breadth of gorgeous whites and legendary Pinot Noir in the Central Otago area brings a completely different perspective. Pinot Gris from the Wet Jacket and Puntangi labels delivers depth and complexity with floral and crisp fruits. Way beyond a porch pounding PG, these wines deserve contemplation to unravel their layers.

Our exploration of Wet Jacket’s wines extends across a wide array of aromatic whites, legendary varietals such as Chardonnay and Syrah. We delve into the Central Otago expression of Pinot Noir, but not without multiple layers of Captain Hay’s magician-like touch. There is a personal feel to what the wines deliver. The legacy, and the vision of what has transpired since Wet Jacket’s inception less than a decade ago is nothing less than well rooted in something ethereal, from the cosmos. It’s almost like the wines become part of you in telling their story.

For more of the story, visit:  Spirituality in a Quest for Wine » WINE WIZE (wine-wize.com)

Cheers! Charisse & Kristi

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi

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So many buzzwords fly around sustainability, organics, biodynamics and renenerative wine viticulture and viniculture it's impossible to make sense of it all.  What better way to break it all down than to hear from the expert team at Greystone in Wiapara, Canterbury, New Zealand?  Stephen McGowan, Sales and Marketing Director, give an insiders tour from the land to a Birdseye view of the property and explains how regenerative principles drive amazingly good wines. And, most importantly, allow the team to leave the land better than they found it.

Our interview continues with Gavin Tait, winemaker, who explains his approach to incorporating regenerative principles as far as fermenting wines out in the vineyard. And wait until you hear how they taste!

Greystone is truly a Summa Cum Laude student of regenerative farming and their passion shows through in our interview.  We cannot thank them enough for sharing their passion and for leaving a legacy for years to come!

For more information on Greystone, check out the rest of their story on their website.

Cheers and enjoy!

Charisse & Kristi

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi

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What better way to celebrate the culinary and beverage geniouses of Fort Worth, TX than to partner with the James Beard Foundation? We think there is nothing better and Charisse and Kristi were honored to serve as podcast sponsors for the event held at Colonial Country Club on March 4.  With microphones in hand, the two took to task catching chefs and vendors before the kickoff of the 1.5 hour cocktail party.  The entire list of participants and sponsors can be found on the Colonial Culinary Classic website, but here is are the interviewees for this episode!

• Chef Martin Meadows - Colonial Country Club
• Chef Jon Bonnell - Bonnell's, Waters, Jon's Grill, Buffalo Bros
• Chef Blaine Staniford - 61 Osteria, Grace, Little Red Wasp
• Chef Jenny Castor - Luckybee Kitchen
• Chef Rodrigo Cárdenas - Don Artemio
• Chef  Maricsa Trejo - La Casita Bakeshop
• Chef Juan Rodrigues - Magdalena's
•  Matt Jacquinot - Holladay Bourbon
• Ashley Austin & Keith Beardsley - Delicato Family Wines
• Stacie Pearlman - Lalo Tequila
•  Grant Morgan - Hotel Drover
• Faith Fulginiti - Wilson Daniels
• Masumi Pinto - Fort Brewery
• Olivia Jacobs - Remus Bourbon Whiskey

A special shout out to Chef Amy McNutt of Maiden, Spiral Diner, and Dreamboat Donuts & Scoops for representing the Vegan community so well!  We'll get her on an upcoming podcast for sure!  There are many other chefs and vendors well deserving of a shout out - y'all did amazing!

Varsity Communications, led by Dick Stephens, partnered with Jeremy Lamb, Colonial Somm and F&B manager along with the Charles Schwab Challenge to bring this event to  Ft. Worth and Colonial for the 2nd year. This year was every bit as exciting and we know you'll want to join next year after hearing about it from our guests!

We would be absolutely remiss to not mention the James Beard Foundation who inspires the culinary scene all over the US through education, inspiration, support and scholarship.  Funds raised at the event go toward financial support for  young women who want to enter the culinary industry.  We can't think of a better cause!

THIS WEEK'S WINE FIND:  The Parkside Flask from High Camp Flasks! 

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi

Sip, share, shape our podcast!

Do you get confused with wine terms? What does flabby really even mean when it comes to wine? Fear no more! Charisse and Kristi tackle the definitions of many often used wine terms and break them down into simple, easily understandable meanings for you! From Awkward to Zippy (well, we actually forgot that one!), you’ll get a dictionary full of useful terms to help your wine journey make more sense!

We’re thrilled to have a new sponsor in WINE WIZE, wine education for business and service industry professionals!  

Cheers!
Charisse and Kristi

Support the show

Thanks for joining Somm Women Talk Wine! Check out our socials for more fun filled wine exploration!

Instagram:
@somm_women_talk_wine
@kristiwinenerd
@charissehenryfw
@kmayfield109

All episodes are also on our website:
SommWomenTalkWine

Charisse and Kristi