We decided to make a trek up to Sonoma County to visit with a few personalities from the Kendall-Jackson stable of wineries.

Our first stop was to visit with Melissa Stackhouse, winemaker for La Crema. The love for farming came naturally for Melissa, having spent summers on her grandparents’ farm in rural Minnesota. But, it was a visit to Washington State’s San Juan Islands that actually introduced her to wine. And, as they say in fishing, the hook was set. A UC Davis education was next on the agenda, followed by several internships which finally led her to La Crema in 2001 as assistant winemaker. By 2003, she was running the place.

Next, we were off to meet with Don Hartford at Hartford Family Winery in the Russian River Valley. Don attended University of Massachusetts at Amherst, obtained his law degree from Santa Clara University, and his legal career has included a Tokyo law firm, a large San Francisco-based firm, Jess Jackson’s practice of Constitutional law, and work at the California Supreme Court. The law notwithstanding, Don has immersed himself in winemaking and winery management over the past 20 years. He also owns and farms a small vineyard of old-vine Zinfandel behind his home. This 90-year old vineyard is located on seven acres and is head-pruned to produce annual yields of about 1.5 tons an acre. Almost by itself, stewardship of this property has returned Don to his Massachusetts farming roots.

Then, we spent some quality time with Randy Ullom, of Kendall-Jackson Estates. Randy was originally hired in 1993 by Jess Jackson as the winemaker at Camelot Vineyards. That same year, Jackson also put him in charge of heading up a new Chilean operation as founding winemaker and general manager of Viña Calina. Then in 1996, Ullom helped Jackson establish wine production in Argentina with the Tapiz label. In 1997, Ullom was made winemaster for Kendall-Jackson Winery. In 2006, he also became the company’s Chief Operating Officer, reflecting his intimate involvement in the both the viticultural and winemaking programs of Kendall-Jackson.

Finally, we talked with Alex Réblé, winemaker for Matanzas Creek. Originally from the Bordeaux region of France, Alex was educated at the Agricultural School of Libourne and Blanquefort and mentored by Jean-Claude Berrouet (then winemaker at Pétrus and La Fleur-Pétrus).  After working at Chateau La Tour Carnet for a year, Alex turned his attention to the New World. Wanting to try his hand with Burgundian varieties, he took a job at Willamette Valley Vineyards in Oregon, working with Joe Dobbes. Then, he was on to the Napa Valley in 1998, to work with Luc Morlet at Newton Vineyards, Ken Deis at Flora Springs Winery, and Daniel Baron at Silver Oak and Twomey. Finally, he joined Matanzas Creek in 2001 as cellar master, becoming its winemaker in 2010.

Sponsor: VinAssure, Wine Preservation System : www.vinassure.com

For more information on Jackson Family Wines: www.kj.com

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Show #270
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On his recent trip to the Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Robert Kenney was able to ask several well-known winemakers our last big question: “Why do you produce a Special Cuvee” — Film editing by Robert Farinhas.

Everyone has special barrels that seem to deliver more complex wine than the other barrels. Join us as we hear several interesting answers from some of Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s great winemakers about why, in addition to several other cuvees, they are intent on producing what is commonly referred to as a “special cuvee”?

Interviews include:
Julien Barrot — Domaine La Barroche
Vincent Durieu — Domaine Durieu
Francois Giraud — Domaine Giraud
Emilie Boisson — Domaine Du Pere Caboche
Laurence Feraud — Domaine Du Pegau
Alexandre Favier — Domaine Chante Cigale
Veronique Maret — Domaine De La Charbonniere
Nicolas Boiron — Domaine Bosquet Des Pape
Jean-Paul Versino — Domaine Bois De Boursan
Christian Voeux — Chateau La Nerthe
Thierry Sabon — Clos Du Mont-Olivet
Christophe Jaume — Domaine Grand Veneur
Sophie Armenier — Domaine De Marcoux
Mathieu Perrin — Chateau De Beaucastel
Laurent Charvin –Domaine Charvin
Baptiste Grangeon — Domaine De Christia
Isabelle Sabon — Domaine De La Janasse
Bruno Gaspard — Clos Du Caillou
Karine Diffonty — Cuvee Du Vatican
Didier Negron — Roger Sabon
Florent Lancon — Domaine De La Solitude
Frederic Coulon — Domaine De Beaurenard
Isabel Ferrando — Domaine Saint Prefert
Amelle Barrot — Chateau Jas De Bressy
Pierre Fabre — Chateau MontRedon
Vincent Maurel — Clos Saint Jean
Thierry Usseglio — Domaine Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Patrick Vernier — Chateau Cabrieres
Pierre Pastre — Chateau Fortia
Laurent Brotte — Brotte
Andre Brunel — Les Cailloux
Frederic Brunier — Domaine Du Vieux Telegraph
Guillaume Gonnet — Font De Michelle

On his recent trip to the Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Robert Kenney was able to ask several well-known winemakers our final burning question: “What do you prefer to drink besides Chateauneuf-du-Pape” — Film editing by Robert Farinhas.

Join us as we hear more than a few whimsical thoughts from some of world’s great winemakers about what they what they like to drink – when they’re not drinking CdP…as if!

Interviews include:
Julien Barrot — Domaine La Barroche
Vincent Durieu — Domaine Durieu
Francois Giraud — Domaine Giraud
Emilie Boisson — Domaine Du Pere Caboche
Laurence Feraud — Domaine Du Pegau
Alexandre Favier — Domaine Chante Cigale
Veronique Maret — Domaine De La Charbonniere
Nicolas Boiron — Domaine Bosquet Des Pape
Jean-Paul Versino — Domaine Bois De Boursan
Christian Voeux — Chateau La Nerthe
Thierry Sabon — Clos Du Mont-Olivet
Christophe Jaume — Domaine Grand Veneur
Sophie Armenier — Domaine De Marcoux
Mathieu Perrin — Chateau De Beaucastel
Laurent Charvin –Domaine Charvin
Baptiste Grangeon — Domaine De Christia
Isabelle Sabon — Domaine De La Janasse
Bruno Gaspard — Clos Du Caillou
Karine Diffonty — Cuvee Du Vatican
Didier Negron — Roger Sabon
Florent Lancon — Domaine De La Solitude
Frederic Coulon — Domaine De Beaurenard
Isabel Ferrando — Domaine Saint Prefert
Amelle Barrot — Chateau Jas De Bressy
Pierre Fabre — Chateau MontRedon
Vincent Maurel — Clos Saint Jean
Thierry Usseglio — Domaine Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Patrick Vernier — Chateau Cabrieres
Pierre Pastre — Chateau Fortia
Laurent Brotte — Brotte
Andre Brunel — Les Cailloux
Frederic Brunier — Domaine Du Vieux
Telegraph Guillaume Gonnet — Font De Michelle

On his recent trip to the Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Robert Kenney was able to ask several well-known winemakers another of our burning questions: “What’s the best advice you were ever given?” – Film editing by Robert Farinhas.

Join us as we hear some philosophical, practical, and whimsical thoughts from some of world’s great winemakers about what they was good or otherwise useful advice in their respective careers.

Interviews include:
Julien Barrot – Domaine La Barroche
Vincent Durieu – Domaine Durieu
Francois Giraud – Domaine Giraud
Emilie Boisson – Domaine Du Pere Caboche
Laurence Feraud – Domaine Du Pegau
Alexandre Favier – Domaine Chante Cigale
Veronique Maret – Domaine De La Charbonniere
Nicolas Boiron – Domaine Bosquet Des Pape
Jean-Paul Versino – Domaine Bois De Boursan
Christian Voeux – Chateau La Nerthe
Thierry Sabon – Clos Du Mont-Olivet
Christophe Jaume – Domaine Grand Veneur
Sophie Armenier – Domaine De Marcoux
Mathieu Perrin – Chateau De Beaucastel
Laurent Charvin –Domaine Charvin
Baptiste Grangeon – Domaine De Christia
Isabelle Sabon – Domaine De La Janasse
Bruno Gaspard – Clos Du Caillou
Karine Diffonty – Cuvee Du Vatican
Didier Negron – Roger Sabon
Florent Lancon – Domaine De La Solitude
Frederic Coulon – Domaine De Beaurenard
Isabel Ferrando – Domaine Saint Prefert
Amelle Barrot – Chateau Jas De Bressy
Pierre Fabre – Chateau MontRedon
Vincent Maurel – Clos Saint Jean
Thierry Usseglio – Domaine Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Patrick Vernier – Chateau Cabrieres
Pierre Pastre – Chateau Fortia
Laurent Brotte – Brotte
Andre Brunel – Les Cailloux
Frederic Brunier – Domaine Du Vieux Telegraph
Guillaume Gonnet – Font De Michelle

On a recent trip to the Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Robert Kenney was able to ask several well-known winemakers one of our usual burning questions: “What’s Unique about Chateauneuf-du-Pape?” – Film editing by Robert Farinhas.

Join us as we hear some philosophical, practical, and whimsical thoughts from some of world’s great winemakers about what they feel makes their region so unique, different or special.

Interviews include:
Julien Barrot – Domaine La Barroche
Vincent Durieu – Domaine Durieu
Francois Giraud – Domaine Giraud
Emilie Boisson – Domaine Du Pere Caboche
Laurence Feraud – Domaine Du Pegau
Alexandre Favier – Domaine Chante Cigale
Veronique Maret – Domaine De La Charbonniere
Nicolas Boiron – Domaine Bosquet Des Pape
Jean-Paul Versino – Domaine Bois De Boursan
Christian Voeux – Chateau La Nerthe
Thierry Sabon – Clos Du Mont-Olivet
Christophe Jaume – Domaine Grand Veneur
Sophie Armenier – Domaine De Marcoux
Mathieu Perrin – Chateau De Beaucastel
Laurent Charvin –Domaine Charvin
Baptiste Grangeon – Domaine De Christia
Isabelle Sabon – Domaine De La Janasse
Bruno Gaspard – Clos Du Caillou
Karine Diffonty – Cuvee Du Vatican
Didier Negron – Roger Sabon
Florent Lancon – Domaine De La Solitude
Frederic Coulon – Domaine De Beaurenard
Isabel Ferrando – Domaine Saint Prefert
Amelle Barrot – Chateau Jas De Bressy
Pierre Fabre – Chateau MontRedon
Vincent Maurel – Clos Saint Jean
Thierry Usseglio – Domaine Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Patrick Vernier – Chateau Cabrieres
Pierre Pastre – Chateau Fortia
Laurent Brotte – Brotte
Andre Brunel – Les Cailloux
Frederic Brunier – Domaine Du Vieux Telegraph
Guillaume Gonnet – Font De Michelle

On a recent trip to the Chateauneuf-Du-Pape, Robert Kenney was able to ask winemakers one of our burning questions: “If you weren’t making wine, what would you be doing?” – Film editing by Robert Farinhas.

Join us as we hear some philosophical, practical, and whimsical thoughts from some of world’s great winemakers about what they might do if they had never gotten into wine. Interviews include:

Julien Barrot – Domaine La Barroche
Vincent Durieu – Domaine Durieu
Francois Giraud – Domaine Giraud
Emilie Boisson – Domaine Du Pere Caboche
Laurence Feraud – Domaine Du Pegau
Alexandre Favier – Domaine Chante Cigale
Veronique Maret – Domaine De La Charbonniere
Nicolas Boiron – Domaine Bosquet Des Pape
Jean-Paul Versino – Domaine Bois De Boursan
Christian Voeux – Chateau La Nerthe
Thierry Sabon – Clos Du Mont-Olivet
Christophe Jaume – Domaine Grand Veneur
Sophie Armenier – Domaine De Marcoux
Mathieu Perrin – Chateau De Beaucastel
Laurent Charvin –Domaine Charvin
Baptiste Grangeon – Domaine De Christia
Isabelle Sabon – Domaine De La Janasse
Bruno Gaspard – Clos Du Caillou
Karine Diffonty – Cuvee Du Vatican
Didier Negron – Roger Sabon
Florent Lancon – Domaine De La Solitude
Frederic Coulon – Domaine De Beaurenard
Isabel Ferrando – Domaine Saint Prefert
Amelle Barrot – Chateau Jas De Bressy
Pierre Fabre – Chateau MontRedon
Vincent Maurel – Clos Saint Jean
Thierry Usseglio – Domaine Pierre Usseglio & Fils
Patrick Vernier – Chateau Cabrieres
Pierre Pastre – Chateau Fortia
Laurent Brotte – Brotte
Andre Brunel – Les Cailloux
Frederic Brunier – Domaine Du Vieux Telegraph
Guillaume Gonnet – Font De Michelle

In wine growing, the word “sustainability” gets bandied about frequently. So, what’s it really mean? Obviously, sustainability is the ability to continue on…to endure. So, with wine growing the term will usually mean that the grower uses farming methods that are least likely to harm the environment in general, and the farm in particular, so that it may ‘live long and prosper.’ But, philosophically, it actually goes well beyond that basic premise.

Sustainability in wine growing will normally involve both biological and philosophical approaches – such as organic farming or biodynamics, each of which is intended to conserve natural resources, protect and restore natural habitats, and protect the health of those doing the farming, and their neighbors and customers. It’s a lofty goal, but one that makes plenty of common as well as practical sense. So, how does one practice sustainability at a winery or vineyard? We’re glad you asked!

Join us as we talk with Jon Ruel, Director of Viticulture and Winemaking at Trefethen Vineyards, about the differences between terms like sustainably farmed, organic, certified organic, and biodynamic. As a family farm in Napa Valley for over 40 years, Trefethen has been making conscious decisions concerning long-term sustainability.

Sponsor: 7th Annual Celebration of Food and Wine : www.balboabayclub.com

For more information on Trefethen Family Vineyards: www.trefethen.com

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Wines from Alsace – are they more German or more French? Well, they’re a little of both, owing not the least to its geographical location on France’s eastern border and on the west bank of the upper Rhine adjacent to Germany. Vines have been cultivated in Alsace for more than 2,000 years, thanks to the nearby Rhine river, and was an important wine producing region in the Germanic Holy Roman Empire. The Thirty Years War (1618 – 1648), the French Revolution (1789), the Napoleonic Wars and the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 caused the steady decline of the Alsace wine region. In fact, over the past few centuries several Franco-German conflicts have managed to relocate the border, making Alsace variously German then French. Thus, it’s no wonder the wines reflect so much of both countries.

Justly famous for its white wines, grape varieties here include: Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Muscat, Pinot Gris, and Sylvaner. The terroir is varied, with mostly chalky soils as well as a heavier clay soil that nurtures Gewurztraminer best.

Join us as we talk with Etienne Hugel, whose family ties to the vineyards of Alsace extends back to 1639. We’ll hear a bit of history, vineyard and winemaking practices, and Etienne’s “noble mission” to continue to produce some of the world’s finest white wines.

Sponsor: 7th Annual Celebration of Food and Wine : www.balboabayclub.com

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Named after a logging camp in the idyllic region of California’s Santa Cruz Mountains, Bonny Doon Vineyard began as one man’s attempt to wade into wine with both feet and hands. As with many of us, Randall Grahm’s journey began innocently enough. Mix in a little Beverly Hills upbringing, a UC Santa Cruz education in philosophy and literature – and viola, you have a man convinced that if you can conceive growing the great American Pinot Noir, you can do it! Well, long story short, Pinot did in fact turn out to validate its title as ‘the heartbreak grape,’ and Randall, the ever cockeyed optimist that he is, decided to tackle something more…uh…. normal. Thus, running counter to established norms of the day, Randall decided to vest his future with Rhône varieties. Now, since this was 1983, it is fair to say that he was on the bleeding edge of things vinous.

As most listeners know, the names Bonny Doon and Randall Grahm easily became synonymous, along with Le Cigare Volant and Rhône Ranger. And so a movement was born, baptized and confirmed – all within a relatively short space of time. End of story? Not hardly. It’s a much longer (and stranger) journey than that.

Join us as we talk with Randall Grahm about the trials, tribulations and mentors of his life-consuming passion. We’ll even discuss biodynamics, screw caps, and his efforts to rein-in uncontrolled hedonism – all in an effort to return wine to the people.

Sponsor: VinAssure, Wine Preservation System: www.vinassure.com

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Although it is considered New World, Chile has been growing wine since the 16th century, when the Spanish conquistadors brought vitis vinifera vines with them during their colonization of the region. About the mid-18th century, several French grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carmenère were also introduced to the region.

Chile’s five viticultural regions occupy an 800 mile stretch, in a country 2,700 miles long and 109 miles wide. The most common red grapes grown are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Carmenère – a grape originally from the Medoc region, but which has all but disappeared from Bordeaux since the phylloxera epidemic of the late 19th Century.

During the early 1980s, Chilean wineries modernized their production, bringing in stainless steel tanks for fermentation and oak barrels for aging. These were fast times, and the number of wineries grew from 12 in 1995 to over 70 in 2005. The increase in production was matched with wine exports as well, with Chile becoming the fifth largest exporter of wines, and the ninth largest producer in the world.

Join us as we talk with Andrea Leon, winemaker for Casa Lapostolle. Founded by Alexandra Marnier Lapostolle, her husband Cyril de Bournet and Don José Rabat Gorchs, Casa Lapostolle began as an effort to blend French expertise with Chilean terroir. Certified as Carbon Neutral for its recycling and renewable energy efforts, the winery practices biodynamic farming, and have been a leader in the “Green” movement in Chile.

Sponsor: VinAssure, Wine Preservation System: www.vinassure.com

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The name Bouchard Pere et Fils should be a familiar one to all fans of the wines from Burgundy. Tracing their wine roots back to the Eighteenth Century, the Bouchard family began as wine merchants in Beaune, purchasing their first vineyard in 1731. Over the course of time, Bouchard Père et Fils would become the largest owner of premier and grand cru vineyards in the Côte d’Or. All together, they produce eighty crus from each vintage.

Purchased by Champagne’s Henriot family in 1995, the domaine seemed to up the ante in quality, while still retaining its independence. Henriot’s further acquisition in 1998 of the William Fèvre label from Chablis created an impressive portfolio of wines, and it was a tribute to the Bouchard winemaking team that they were assigned responsibility for production of the William Fèvre wines as well.

Join us as we talk with export manager Luc Bouchard about the nine generations of his family’s history in Burgundy as both wine growers and négociants. We’ll discuss everything from Bouchard to Fèvre, from the Henriot acquisition to their many different bottlings, and from their winemaking processes to the current hot topic of premature oxidation in white Burgundies.

Sponsor: Millesima, Fine Wine Merchant: www.millesima-usa.com

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Human nature is a funny thing. Many people (but especially guys) really want to appear to be “in-the-know” or always right about numerous things – the business world, politics, cars, sports, restaurants, and of course…wine. Just ask a fellow wine geek about his latest acquisition, and he’ll likely be able to go on for an hour or more telling you all about its rarity, how much it cost, how long he’d been on the list, blah…blah…blah. Soon enough, somebody else in the conversation will have a story that he thinks is even better, “Oh, that’s nothing. Guess what I bought!” From here, the stories grows exponentially as each one drones on about waiting lists, allocations, megabucks, SQN, DRC, etc.

It starts out innocently enough. However, does the conversation ever reach a point where in your opinion it becomes too boastful or boorish? Well, the GrapeRadio crew try to figure this one out. As with many things, there is no one-size-fits-all opinion. But, we’re more than happy to give it a shot.

Sponsor: VinAssure, Wine Preservation System: www.vinassure.com

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The HdR is a two-day event featuring wine seminars, library and Grand tastings, and a unique opportunity to meet and talk with people who are at the forefront of the increasingly popular Rhône varietal movement throughout the world. From its modest beginnings as The Viognier Guild, vintners Mat Garretson and John Alban debuted the event in 1993, envisioning it as a quasi-conference for winemakers and vintners who were passionate about wine varieties originating from the France’s Rhône Valley. Today, the 17th annual event is largely the work of local vintners John Alban and Vicki Carroll, who have invited international winemakers and producers to come and celebrate Rhône wines with other enthusiasts.

For our coverage of the 2009 Hospice du Rhône, we bring you the sights, sounds (and smells) of the event. Plus, came up with more of our burning questions to ask winemakers and producers. No debate, no discussion (okay, maybe a little) – we just wanted to know what they thought about several issues, such as: Has technology helped you make better wines? What the heck is going on with American Syrah? Do good scores from wine critics help you sell wine? And finally, If you could put a cute critter on your label, what would it be?

Sponsor: Hospice du Rhone: www.hospicedurhone.org

Prior to the main HdR events of Friday and Saturday, the winemakers and producers conduct a Syrah Shootout, a blind tasting of 45-50 wines to determine by vote the best three Syrahs in the lineup. The prize? How about: bragging rights until next year’s event, plus a pseudo-trophy of a small wooden barrel and plaque, and finally an ever-so-gauche plaid sportcoat – suitably named “the Coat du Rhône.”
Submitted wines (Syrahs/Shiraz), are all bagged and numbered. Winemakers and producers are asked to taste through the wines, pick their top three and turn in their scoring to HdR personnel. This can be an interesting proposition, and the winners are quite often a big surprise to everyone. This year’s winners were: 1st – Four Vines, Santa Barbara County; 2nd- Caliza – Russell, Vnyd, Paso Robles; and 3rd -Graves – Ohana Vnyd, Paso Robles.

Sponsor: Hospice du Rhone: www.hospicedurhone.org

Mention Champagne to people, and their eyes just light up. Thoughts of New Year’s Eve, wedding toasts, and other celebratory events jump immediately to mind. But, Champagne is a wine, first and foremost, and shouldn’t be relegated to some once-in-awhile beverage. So, how does one find out more about its versatility? Well, fortunately, we’ve invited a guest to educate us on some of the nuances of Champagne.

Although Michigan resident Brad Baker grew up drinking Australian Shiraz and California sparklers, it was a bottle of Krug Grand Cuvee that really rocked his world, and made him want to dedicate himself to learning and discovering as much as possible about the people, land, culture, and wines of Champagne – as well as other sparkling wine regions around the world. Of course, discovery and knowledge often leads to something further. In Brad’s case, all of this knowledge led quite naturally to developing “The Champagne Warrior”, his newsletter to inform subscribers all about great Champagne and sparkling wine.

Join us as we talk with Brad about his passion and enthusiasm for Champagne. We’ll also learn a few geeky things about this bubbly beverage that will have you saying, “no more flutes.”

For more info on The Champagne Warrior: www.champagnewarrior.com

Sponsor: The Independent Champagne and Sparkling Wine Invitational: www.icswi2010.com

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Each year, Hospice du Rhône produces an exciting three-day wine event that is regarded as the single most educational and enjoyable gathering of international Rhône wine producers and enthusiasts. Attendees are treated to four in-depth wine seminars, a well as wine tastings and some great meals. But, arguably the most valuable aspect of this fabulous event is the opportunity for attendees to rub elbows with the very producers and winemakers whose enthusiasm for Syrah, Grenache and twenty other varieties of Rhône Valley grapes has inspired the passion in all of us.

We return to the 2009 HdR with our coverage of a somewhat unusual Riedel seminar. Normal Riedel seminars cover how different shapes of stemware affect the aroma and taste of different grape varieties. However, this seminar was devised to illustrate the differences of three syrah-based wines (2005 E. Guigal – St. Joseph, 2005 Elderton Shiraz – Barossa, 2007 Miner/Villard “La Diligence” Stagecoach Vnyd, Napa) when sampled from 4 different stems. Even more interesting, 3 of the 4 glasses were designed specifically for Syrah-based wines.

The “science” behind the shape of the wine glass seems to always cause conversation. Most non-science/engineering types of people are unable to explain the phenomena. Riedel explains it this way: the shape of the glass dictates the emission of aroma, somewhat based on how a person positions their head while drinking, which ultimately alters the way the wine flows into the mouth. By narrowing the rim of the glass, this focuses the drinker to tilt his head back, delivering the wine to potentially different zones of the tongue, which results in the brain perceiving different flavors. The volume of the glass, the diameter of its rim, the thickness of the crystal, and the finish also all play a role in the roll of the wine onto the tongue.

The Stemware used for this event were: Riedel Restaurant = Oregon Pinot glass #0447/07; Sommeliers = Hermitage 0400/30; Vinum Extreme = Syrah 4444/30; and Flow = Syrah 0407/30. that seeks to find the differences Based on the tried – and arguably true – impression that wines taste and smell different when consumed from different stemware.

For more info on Hospice du Rhone: www.hospicedurhone.org

For more info on Riedel, Wine Glass Company: www.riedel.com

Sponsor: VinAssure, Wine Preservation System: www.vinassure.com

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The California Pinot Noirs that tend to draw the attention of the critics and enthusiasts are ones that are single vineyard bottlings that stick their chest out and claim to be terroir-driven. In truth, the wines are often highly extracted, high in alcohol, generously oaked, and darkly colored, so loud and powerful that terroir is lost in all of the pumped-up glamor. Really good Pinot Noir should not only taste like Pinot Noir, it should have refinement, breeding, subtlety, and suaveness, but above all else, it should show a sense of place by exhibiting terroir. Winemaker Theresa Heredia of Freestone Vineyards is a proponent of terroir, and she is dedicated to bringing out the regional typicity of the Freestone estate vineyards located in the extreme Sonoma Coast.

Despite the importance of the place where a wine is made, the ambition and talent of the person who made it is highly relevant to how that wine tastes. We all like to know about the personal idiosyncrasies and a winemaker’s take on the world. Those are the things that make wine different and special. Join us in a conversation with Theresa Heredia as the Grape Radio crew learns about her ambition and character and why her touch is guiding Freestone Vineyards to produce some of the most stunning terroir-driven Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in California.

For more info on Freestone Vineyards: www.freestonevineyards.com

Sponsor: 2010 World of Pinot Noir: www.worldofpinotnoir.com

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It should come as no surprise that one of our favorite things to do is taste wine. Well, Grape Radio’s Rusty Gaffney (aka, The Prince of Pinot) invited us to take part in a tasting of wines from Oregon’s Shea Vineyard – specifically, the wines made by Shea Wine Cellars from Estate fruit. It had almost been two years since we had last tasted a flight of wines from this vineyard (2005 vintage – Show 181), so we felt it was high time to take a look at them once again.

Although Oregon grows at least 15 or more varieties of wine grapes, it is the nearly 50,000 acres of Pinot Noir that gets the most attention. Pinot does quite well here, and 9 of the 16 AVAs (American Viticultural Area) in the state are planted to the famous grape of Burgundy. The largest amount of Pinot is in the northwest corner of the state in the Willamette Valley AVA, an area sufficiently diverse to have 7 sub-appellations within its boundaries. Shea Vineyard is located in the one of the Willamette sub-appellations, the Yamhill-Carlton District, officially established in 2005.

Planted by Dick and Deirdre Shea in 1989, the property is 200 acres of which 140 acres are planted to vineyards – 135 acres of Pinot and 5 acres of Chardonnay. The Willakenzie soils in this part of the state make it an ideal site for some world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. After years of selling fruit to some of the West’s best known wineries, Dick and Deirdre founded Shea Wine Cellars in 1996, in order to produce wines from their Estate fruit.

Join us as we dig into 5 wines from the 2007 vintage, to swirl, sniff, and taste Oregon Pinot Noir from Shea Wine Cellars.

THE WINES:
2007 Shea Wine Cellars Willamette Valley Estate Pinot Noir
2007 Shea Wine Cellars Willamette Valley East Hill Pinot Noir
2007 Shea Wine Cellars Willamette Valley Pommard Clone Pinot Noir
2007 Shea Wine Cellars Willamette Valley Block 33 Pinot Noir
2005 Shea Wine Cellars Willamette Valley Homer Pinot Noir

For more info on Shea Wine Cellars: www.sheawinecellars.com

Sponsor: 2010 World of Pinot Noir: www.worldofpinotnoir.com

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Shane Finley had been bitten by the wine bug. So, in 2001 he decided to ditch the New York corporate insurance world and try his hand at something different – making wine. After contacting Wells Guthrie at Copain to ask about an opportunity to intern, Shane packed his worldly belongings and headed for California. The mentorship there would lead Shane to work a harvest in Australia, and travel to France to work with Pierre Gaillard in the Northern Rhône. After returning to California, Shane became cellarmaster at Copain, then assistant winemaker at Paul Hobbs, before finally taking his current position in 2006 at Kosta Browne.

As the associate winemaker at Kosta Browne winery, Shane works very closely with Michael Browne making world class Pinot Noir. It would seem, at this point, that he had possibly achieved most of his ambitions in the world of wine. Well, not entirely. It had been a great journey so far, but Shane wanted to begin a personal wine project – a label of his own. Of all the grapes he had worked with thus far, Syrah seemed to speak to him the most. Thus was born Shane Wine Cellars – his family project devoted to producing Syrah. In addition, Shane is making Pinot Noir under the Spell label, as a friends and family venture.

Join us as we talk with Shane about his philosophy and approach to winemaking – as well as his love for both Pinot Noir and Syrah.

For more info on Shane Cellars: www.shanewines.com

Sponsor: Wine Beserker: www.wineberserkers.com

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We are back with more coverage of Murcia, Spain with our – The Wines of Murcia – Part 2 (The GrapeRadio Cut)

Sponsor: Millesima, Fine Wine Merchants: www.millesima-usa.com

We are back with more coverage of Murcia, Spain with our – The Wines of Murcia – Part 1 (The GrapeRadio Cut)

Sponsor: Millesima, Fine Wine Merchants: www.millesima-usa.com

Justifiably recognized for his creation of the famous wine list at Windows on the World restaurant, Kevin Zraly is also a wine author and wine educator. He recently celebrated his 33th anniversary as the founder and teacher of the immensely popular Windows on the World Wine School that has graduated over 19,000 students since its inception. Kevin has studied wine-making techniques in California and all the great wine regions of Europe and has been teaching wine for over 30 years.

Kevin’s benchmark book, Windows on the World Complete Wine Course, has been recently updated with a 2009 version that includes 16 pages of quizzes (two at the end of every chapter) to test readers on how much they’ve learned—just as if they were in his class. Kevin is also a James Beard Award winner, and has co-hosted the Food Network’s “Wine A to Z”.

Join us as we talk with Kevin about the latest revisions to his book, the role of a wine educator today, and his many experiences in the world of wine.

For more info on Kevin Zraly: www.windowswineschool.com

Buy the Book: Windows World Complete Wine Course – 25th Edition

Sponsor: Wine Beserker: www.wineberserkers.com

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The Murcia region of Spain attracts millions of tourists every year, mostly for its pristine beaches bathed by the warm Mediterranean climate. But, Murcia is also rightly known for its cuisine – and soon, its wine.

Located in Southeastern Spain, the history of the region alone could account for its gastronomy. The original Iberian tribes formed commercial relationships with the Phoenicians and Greeks, then the region became a Carthaginian colony taken over by the Moors. All of these various influences created a culinary perfusion of stews, salads, and baked meat and rice dishes. Finally, there was the obvious connection to the Mediterranean – which spawned a host of seafood delicacies. However, what would be a Spanish meal without a good wine to accompany it.

Thus far, the wines from Murcia have not been very well-known to the public, yet they are well worth discovering. Murcia is the home of the Monastrell grape variety, also known as Mourvèdre in France and Mataro in Australia. Believed to have been introduced to the Iberian peninsula by the Phoenicians, Monastrell does quite well in the hot arid region, producing a rich and powerful wine. Bodegas dot the wine routes between Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla, and offer plenty of opportunity to the visitor to experience the best the region has to offer.

GrapeRadio is proud to present a brief look at the cuisine, the people, and the wines of Murcia, Spain. Join us for a close-up of this beautiful region, rich in history, respectful of the past, and looking to the future.

Sponsor: Millesima, Fine Wine Merchants: www.millesima-usa.com

Understanding Italian wines always seems to represent a stumbling block for most Americans. Aside from the obvious language issues, there are a substantially wide variety of wine regions and grapes in the country. So, we felt it was time to call in an expert to break things down for us.

Antonio Galloni’s exposure to wine began early. In addition to reading voraciously as a teenager about the world’s great winemaking regions, he also wrote his first articles on the wines of France for a high-school French class. Antonio later spent several years in the restaurant business, affording him the opportunity to expand his knowledge, especially regarding American wines.

Almost prophetically, Antonio lived in Milan, Italy from 2000 to 2003. That experience allowed him to travel extensively and visit many of the leading estates in virtually all the major winemaking regions. Not surprisingly, Antonio discovered the true extent of Italian wine. Then, upon his return to the US, he found that the quality of available information available on Italian wines was lacking, and decided to write his own newsletter. In 2004 Antonio published the first issue of “Piedmont Report,” drawing on his in-depth knowledge of the region and its producers, as well as his extensive experience with older wines. In 2006 Antonio began expanding his coverage to other regions in Italy when Robert Parker invited him to join The Wine Advocate.

Join us as we speak with Antonio about the wine regions of Italy and his contribution to Robert Parkers new book “Parker’s Wine Bargains: The World’s Best Wine Values Under $25″

Buy the Book: Parker’s Wine Bargains: The World’s Best Wine Values Under $25

Sponsor: Millesima, Fine Wine Merchants: www.millesima-usa.com

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With 2009 drawing to a close, the GrapeRadio bunch thought it might be interesting to have a little round-table discussion about the changes that the past year brought to us – and there were plenty of changes! The economy certainly led the parade, and to a large extent directed many of the events that followed throughout the year. There were also environmental changes and adaptations of both growers and producers, as well as more than a few new medical studies about the benefits of wine – in moderation of course.

Join us, as we cover the high and low points of the year, and examine the interesting (sometimes obvious) trends. Plus, the year wouldn’t be compete without our thoughts on the current value of wine ratings. And, we’ll even throw in a few predictions about what we think the wine world has in store for us in 2010.

Sponsor: California Wine Club: www.cawineclub.com

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Each year, Hospice du Rhône produces an exciting three-day wine event held in Paso Robles, California. Regarded as the single most educational and enjoyable gathering of international Rhône wine producers and enthusiasts, attendees are treated to four in-depth wine seminars, two large-scale wine tastings, in addition to some great meals. But, arguably the most valuable aspect of this fabulous event is the opportunity for attendees to rub elbows with the very producers and winemakers whose enthusiasm for Syrah, Grenache and twenty other varieties of Rhône Valley grapes has inspired the passion in all of us.

We begin our coverage of the 2009 HdR with Seminar #1 – Somms Gone Wild. Moderator John Alban takes us through the very unique experiences of five former Sommeliers (aka, somms) as they took their love for one step further, becoming winemakers themselves. Listen in as we hear from: Richard Betts, of Betts & Scholl, Cris Cherry, of Villa Creek Cellars, John Lancaster and Robert Perkins of Skylark Wine Company, and Paul Lato, of Paul Lato Wines.

For More Info:

2010 Hospice du Rhone : www.hospicedurhone.org

Sponsor: California Wine Club: www.cawineclub.com

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With a resume that reads like road map to success, it is absolutely no wonder that award winning chef Michael Chiarello has accomplished so much in the world of food and wine in such a relatively short period of time.

Born and raised in California, Michael has known what he wanted to do since early childhood, and has pursued it with both drive and passion. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York in 1982, Michael then attended hotel school in Florida and immediately began his professional career by opening Toby’s restaurant in Miami to much acclaim.

Michael was named Chef of the Year by Food & Wine magazine in 1985. The following year he was lured back to California to open Tra Vigne restaurant in Napa Valley, where he focused on Italian-influenced wine country cooking and entertaining. He stayed as Executive Chef/partner until 2000, when he left to create NapaStyle and Chiarello Family Vineyards, as well as host several food shows on television. In 2008, Michael donned his chef jacket once more to open his Bottega Napa Valley restaurant in Yountville – again to much acclaim.

Join us as we talk with noted chef, TV host, author, and vintner Michael Chiarello about his passion for food and wine, and his unending desire to create the perfect food and wine marriage.

For More Info:

Michael Chiarello : www.michaelchiarello.com
Napa Style : www.napastyle.com

Sponsor: California Wine Club: www.cawineclub.com

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We continue with our coverage of the 2009 Pinot Days in San Francisco, by spending some additional time at the focus tastings. These tastings examine the wines of different producers, each drawing fruit from a specific vineyard. The wines are bagged (single blind), then placed into individual flights and tasted by the participants. The series begins with an introduction to the vineyard as well as the specific growing area by the vineyard grower/owner. This year’s events offered comparative tastings of Pinot Noir from Hirsch Vineyard, Keefer Vineyard, Pisoni Vineyard, and Clos Pepe Vineyard, each from a separate California AVA.

Part One of our series introduces the wines of Pisoni Vineyard, with a description by the incomparable Gary Pisoni, along with descriptions of each of the bottling by Jeff Pisoni (Pisoni Estate), Jeff Fink (Tantara), Rob Jensen (Testarossa), and Joe Davis (Arcadian). Following the Pisoni tasting, was a comparison of wines from Clos Pepe Vineyards. After an introduction to the vineyard by Wes Hagen, winemakers Wes Hagen (Clos Pepe Estate), Ryan Zepaltas (Siduri), Scott Shapley (Roessler), and Joe Davis (Arcadian).

For More Info:

Pinot Days: www.pinotdays.com
Prince of Pinot: www.princeofpinot.com
Pisoni Vineyards: www.pisonivineyards.com
Tantara Winery: www.tantarawinery.com
Testarossa Winery: www.testarossa.com
Arcadian Winery: www.arcadianwinery.com
Clos Pepe Vineyards: www.clospepe.com
Siduri Wines: www.siduri.com
Roessler Cellars: www.roesslercellars.com

Sponsor: Karafe, Wine Board Game: www.karafe.com

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At our recent visit to the 2009 Pinot Days in San Francisco, we spent some rewarding time at the focus tastings that have become a hallmark of the SF event. These tastings really ‘get into’ the wines of each producer, with an introduction to the vineyard as well as the specific growing area by the vineyard grower/owner. This year’s events offered comparative tastings of Pinot Noir from Hirsch Vineyard, Keefer Vineyard, Pisoni Vineyard, and Clos Pepe Vineyard, each from a separate California AVA.

To make it more interesting, each of the bottles are bagged (single blind), placed into individual flights, and tasted by participants, who are encouraged to dissect and guess each wine. Part One of our series introduces the wines of Hirsch Vineyard, with descriptions of each bottling by David Hirsch (Hirsch Estate), Bob Cabral (Williams Selyem), Kathy Berez (Failla), and Kevin Kelley (Lioco). Following the Hirsch tasting, was a comparison of wines from Keefer Ranch. After an introduction to the vineyard by Marcy Keefer, winemakers Ryan Zepaltas (Siduri), Kathy Berez (Failla), and Craig Strehlow (Keefer Estate & Freeman).

For More Info:

Pinot Days: www.pinotdays.com
Prince of Pinot: www.princeofpinot.com
Hirsch Vineyards: www.hirschvineyards.com
Williams Seylem: www.williamsselyem.com
Lioco Wines: www.liocowine.com
Keefer Ranch: www.keeferranch.com
Siduri Wines: www.siduri.com
Freeman Winery: www.freemanwinery.com
Failla Wines: www.faillawines.com

Sponsor: Karafe, Wine Board Game: www.karafe.com

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Kumeu River Wines was established in 1944 when Mick and Katé Brajkovich and their son Maté first came to the small country settlement of Kumeu, about 20 km northwest of Auckland City, New Zealand. When Mick died in 1949, Maté and Katé continued to tend the vines and make the wine. In 1958 Maté married Melba Sutich from Dargaville, whose antecedents also came from the Dalmatian coast. Maté passed away in 1992, and now Melba the couple’s three sons run the family winery and vineyards. Michael Brajkovich, studied Oenology at Roseworthy College in South Australia,then returned to the family vineyard and winery in Kumeu to take up responsibility for wine production. Since then he has travelled extensively through the world’s wine areas, spending the 1983 vintage in France with the reputed house of Jean Pierre Moueix in Libourne, near Bordeaux. In 1989, Michael passed the Examination and became New Zealand’s first member of the prestigious Institute of Masters of Wine, London. He has many years experience in judging at the New Zealand National Wine Awards, and also has judged at the Australian National Capital Wine Show in Canberra, the Royal Hobart Wine Show in Tasmania and at the Perth Royal Wine Show.

Based on this experience, a new range of wines was developed under the “Kumeu River” label, including a Sauvignon/Semillon blend and a Merlot Cabernet. However, it is the Chardonnay that has enjoyed the greatest critical acclaim, and the “Wine Spectator” magazine has placed Kumeu River Chardonnay in its annual list of the top 100 wines on five occasions. In 1996, the Kumeu River Chardonnay 1994 was ranked at Number 6.

Join us as we talk with Michael Brajkovich about his family’s history in the region, the terroir of New Zealand, his use of indigenous yeasts, and what it took to become a Master of Wine.

For More Info on the Wines of Kumeu River: www.kumeuriver.co.nz

Sponsor: Karafe, Wine Board Game: www.karafe.com

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George M. Taber is author of the “Judgment of Paris: California vs. France and the historic 1976 Paris Tasting,” a book chronicling the famous tasting where American wines bested the French in a blind competition. George has also authored “To Cork or Not to Cork: Tradition, Romance, Science, and the Battle for the Wine Bottle,” a book dealing with the most controversial topic among wine producers the world over: how to seal a bottle of wine. Without taking a position himself, George also relates in detail the histories of various closures and the pluses and minuses of each type. The highly acclaimed book won the Jane Grigson Award from the International Association of Culinary Professionals and was a finalist for the best wine book of the year of 2007 by both the James Beard Awards in the U.S. and the André Simon Awards in Britain.

George was a journalist specializing in financial news for 40 years before publishing his first book. He worked for 21 years for Time magazine, where he was national economic correspondent in Washington, D.C. and then business editor. He has been writing about wine since 2005.

Join us as we sit down to talk with George about his newest book “In Search of Bacchus: Wanderings in the Wonderful World of Wine Tourism.” He visited twelve of the world’s leading regions for wine travel and recounts the stories of their history and the people developing tourism there. The regions: Napa Valley, California; Stellenbosch, South Africa; Mendoza, Argentina; Colchagua, Chile; Margaret River, Australia; Central Otago, New Zealand; Rioja, Spain; Douro Valley, Portugal; Tuscany, Italy; Bordeaux, France; Rhine/Mosel, Germany; and Kakheti, Georgia.

Sponsor: Karafe, Wine Board Game: www.karafe.com

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Part 1

In part 2, we talk more with George about his newest book “In Search of Bacchus: Wanderings in the Wonderful World of Wine Tourism,” which cover his visits to such wine regions as: Margaret River, Australia; Central Otago, New Zealand; Rioja, Spain; Douro Valley, Portugal; Tuscany, Italy; Bordeaux, France; Rhine/Mosel, Germany; and Kakheti, Georgia. Plus, we hear from George about Napa Valley’s current popularity.

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Part 2

It’s always a pleasure to visit Northern California’s Wine Country. There’s so much to see and do – as well as taste and smell. With this in mind, we were quite pleased to accompany a small group recently, and head up to Napa and Sonoma to visit to with some familiar wineries; plus, we were able to make some new friends along the way.

Join us as we visit with Mary Rocca and Eric Grigsby of Rocca Family Winery, as well as their winemaker, Paul Colantuoni. We’ll also visit with John Komes and Sean Garvey to see what’s happening at Flora Springs, and then talk with Todd Graff from Frank Family Winery.

Sponsor: GrapeNutz, Wine Site: www.grape-nutz.com

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Part 1

In part 2, we sit down with Randy Lynch and Rob Hunter to hear more about Bennett lane Winery in the Calistoga area of Napa Valley. Then, we’ll head west up over the Mayacamas Mountains to Sonoma County and visit with winemaker George Bursick at J Vineyards and Winery. And finally, we talk with Kimberly Pfendler and her winemaker Greg Bjornstad about bringing their efforts to fruition at Pfendler Vineyard in the famed Petaluma Gap.

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Part 2

The World of Pinot event, held annually in Shell Beach, California, celebrates all the best things about the “heartbreak grape.” From France’s Burgundy region to shores of the New World and even the Southern Hemisphere, Pinot Noir is everything to its legion of fans.

Join us as we get a snapshot of the event, its tastings and seminars, and talk with several winemakers to get their take on some of our most burning questions. We asked them: “If you weren’t a winemaker, what would you be,” to get a sense of who they were. And we asked them, “Do you have more North American Pinot or Burgundy in your wine cellar,” to check their stylistic preferences. Of course, there was no way we could dodge the high alcohol question, and quizzed them with, “Can you make a Pinot Noir over 15% alcohol and have it still be balanced?” Finally, we wondered about their sensitivity level. So, we asked them to finish the sentence, “Pinot Noir is like sex because….” Needless to say, one or two of the responses were…uh…thought provoking.

To find out more information and to buy tickets:

World of Pinot Noir: www.worldofpinotnoir.com

Sponsor: North Berkeley Imports, Wine Merchants: www.northberkeleyimports.com

Henri Gouges is an important figure in the history of Burgundy. Along with Marquis D’Angerville, he waged war against fraud in Burgundy in the 1920s, in the 1930s he helped delineate the crus in Burgundy for the Institut National d’Appellation d’Origine, and in 1933 challenged the negociants by bottling his wine at the Domaine and selling it directly to the public.

The Domaine Henri Gouges dates to 1919 and the third generation is now in control, specifically Henri Gouges’ two grandsons, Pierre and Christian. The Domaine’s 35-acre vineyard holdings are entirely within the commune of Nuits-St-Georges and include both Village appellation land and six Premier Crus. The average age of the vines is 35 years. One Premier Cru, the 2.5-acre Les Saint-Georges, is considered by many to be the equivalent of a Grand Cru.

Join us as we sit in on a tasting seminar at the 2009 World of Pinot Noir with noted Burgundy authority, “Burghound” Allen Meadows, and Pierre Gouges of Domaine Henri Gouges

To find out more information and to buy tickets:

World of Pinot Noir: www.worldofpinotnoir.com

Burghound: www.burghound.com

Sponsor: Millesima, Fine Wine Merchants: www.millesima-usa.com

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What distinguishes a fine restaurant? Most certainly, it takes an equal amount of desire and talent. But, it also takes an enormous passion for both food and wine – one that translates to the creation of inspired dishes as well as food and wine pairings that marvel the senses and keep customers returning for more.

Motivated by their interest for market-inspired ingredients (Marché Moderne translates as “modern market”) and classic French cooking techniques, Florent and Amelia Marneau have created a charming French bistro in the heart of Orange County, California. The Marneaus seem to relish integrating the urban and the rustic, the simple and the sophisticated, while creating dishes that are at once both modern and traditional. For decades, the couple has worked separately in some of the best kitchens in France and Orange County. Now, with Marché Moderne, they have followed their natural evolution by combining their culinary careers as independent restaurateurs.

Join us as we visit with Chef-owners Florent and Amelia Marneau of Marché Moderne restaurant. We’ll discuss their early influences, some of their kitchen techniques, and the important aspects of running a classic French bistro in Southern California.

To find out more information: Mache Moderne: www.marchemoderne.net

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More and more frequently, consumers are seeking out natural food products. The reasons are numerous – these products may be healthier, or safer, or more nutritious, or a combination thereof. This in turn has spawned a movement in the grocery industry to focus on carrying such items. With retail stores in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., Whole Foods Market has made a niche for itself with its wide array of natural and organic foods and products. So, does a chain who specializes in natural or organic meats, cheeses, and other things, also buy and merchandise a different kind of wine? Well, we know there are more and more vineyards being farmed sustainably or certified as organic. Does this mean there are organic wines as well?

Join us as we talk with Doug Bell a wine buyer for Whole Foods Market. We’ll learn more about the buying process of a global grocer, and find that there’s more to organic products than you might have imagined.

To find out more information: Whole Foods: www.wholefoods.com

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Many people think of Zinfandel as “America’s Grape”, largely due to the venerable age of its many vineyards. However, it is the Norton grape that arguably should be considered the true native American grape. A non-vinifera variety, Norton has thrived in the mid-Atlantic and Midwestern regions of the country for more than a century and a half, and produces a robust red wine with big fruit flavors that seems to age quite well for many years. In fact, 125 years ago, Norton wines were deemed the “best red wine of all nations” at a worldwide competition in Vienna. Today excellent versions of Norton are being produced in many states east of the Rockies, most notably in Missouri and Virginia.

On our recent trip to visit several Mid-Atlantic wineries, we were fortunate to spend some time with Jenny McCloud, proprietor of Chrysalis Vineyards in Middleburg, Virginia. Join us as we talk with Jenny about the Norton grape’s unique place in American winemaking, and take a little vineyard tour in the process.

Sponsor-Comark, the 24/7 wireless monitor for your wine cellar: http://www.comarkusa.com

Winemaking – is it art or science? Well, winemakers themselves will be the first to tell you it’s a bit of both. Obviously, artistic decisions come into play throughout the entire process. However, each and every decision has a basis in science.

So, in order to learn a little more about the science part of the equation, we thought we’d get a behind the scenes tour of a winery’s laboratory. Fortunately, during our trip to the Mid-Atlantic States, we had the opportunity to visit Chrysalis Vineyards. Located in Middleburg, Virginia, Chrysalis is rightly known for its efforts with the Norton grape, a non-vinifera native American variety that produces some rather large extracted wines.

Join us as we visit the laboratory at Chrysalis Vineyards with winemaker Mark Bunter, and get a sense of how all the electronics and test tubes combine with artistic decisions to create something special.

Sponsor-Comark, the 24/7 wireless monitor for your wine cellar: http://www.comarkusa.com