Weinnotes

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Drew Voit, the mastermind behind Harper Voit Wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Drew takes us on a journey through his fascinating career in the wine industry, sharing how he transitioned from a background in food science and engineering to becoming a sought-after winemaker in one of the most renowned wine regions in the world.

Born into a family with a deep connection to agriculture, Drew’s story began on a farm in the Central Valley of California. From a young age, he was immersed in the...

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Weinnotes Podcast featuring Jim Bernau, the founder and visionary behind Willamette Valley Vineyards. With over 35 years of experience, Jim has been a driving force in establishing Oregon’s wine industry as a prominent player on the global stage. In this conversation, he shares his remarkable journey, from the early days of planting vines to cultivating a legacy of quality and community.

Jim takes us back to the inception of Willamette Valley Vineyards, recounting the challenges he faced in the beginning and the passion that fueled his ambition. He reflects on...

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, I sit down with Boyd Teegarden, the visionary winemaker behind Natalie’s Estate in Oregon’s renowned Willamette Valley. Boyd’s journey into the world of wine is a unique one, rooted in hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling through each bottle. Starting his career in the corporate wine world with Gallo, Boyd’s path eventually led him to Oregon, where he and his wife Cassandra purchased their dream property and started building the now-beloved Natalie’s Estate in 1999. The vineyard, once a walnut and turkey farm, sits on a warm, sout...

Step into the world of Kelsey Glasser, the visionary behind Portland’s renowned Arden PDX, where wine, food, and art seamlessly blend in one unforgettable dining experience. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, Kelsey shares her journey from growing up with a passion for Shakespeare to becoming one of Portland’s most respected restaurateurs. Discover how her deep love for storytelling and the arts, combined with a dedication to locally-sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients, led to the creation of Arden—a sanctuary for food and wine enthusiasts.

Kelsey opens up about the inspiration behind Arden’s name, drawn fr...

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Anthony Sereni, head winemaker at Flâneur Wines, to dive deep into his fascinating journey from rollerblading in the streets of Philadelphia to making world-class wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Anthony’s path to winemaking is anything but traditional—starting with a love for roller hockey that morphed into a passion for viticulture and winemaking during his travels in New Zealand.

Throughout the conversation, Anthony reflects on his early days in the wine industry, the invaluable mentorship he received, and how working at top wineries like Ar...

In this insightful episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Brenda Smola-Foti and Frank Foti, the passionate minds behind The Ground, a multifaceted project in Oregon's Willamette Valley that encompasses sustainable farming, agritourism, and hospitality. Brenda and Frank share their journey of turning a dream into reality, starting with a humble 33-acre farm and expanding it into a thriving ecosystem that connects people with nature.

They share their experiences and the challenges of water scarcity in the region, leading to innovative solutions such as regenerative practices and permaculture. Their vision for The Ground goes beyond...

Join us for a captivating episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Jessica Cortell, the passionate and pioneering force behind Cortell Collection in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. In this episode, Jessica shares her incredible journey from fighting forest fires to becoming one of the most respected names in viticulture.

Jessica’s love for the outdoors started early, leading her to a career that combined her passion for plants with her desire to be outside. Her early experiences fighting fires and working with the Forest Service shaped her tenacity and determination—qualities that would later fuel h...

Welcome to an inspiring episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, where we sit down with Dave Jachter, the dynamic force behind Jachter Family Wines in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this engaging conversation, Dave shares his incredible journey from the automotive industry to the world of winemaking, revealing the passion and dedication that drive his success.

Dave’s story begins with a leap of faith, leaving a flourishing career in the car business to pursue his lifelong dream of making wine. He recounts how his fascination with wine started back in 1975 with a memorable bottle of Château de Bea...

Get ready for an insightful and engaging episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Tony Rynders, the acclaimed winemaker behind Tendril Wine Cellars in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Join us as Tony shares his journey, experiences, and the philosophy that drives his winemaking approach.

In this episode, Tony dives into his diverse background, from his early days working in hospitality in Wisconsin to his transition into winemaking. He shares how his time at Domaine Serene and his work with renowned figures in the wine industry shaped his path and led him to start Tendril Wine...

The Serendipitous Path to Winemaking: Michael Lundeen of Lundeen Wines

Join us for an engaging and heartfelt episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Michael Lundeen, the passionate winemaker behind Lundeen Wines in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Michael shares his incredible journey to becoming a winemaker, offering a unique perspective on the world of wine.

In this episode, Michael reflects on his early days, discussing how his father’s retirement project of planting grapes on their family property sparked his curiosity about winemaking. He takes us back to 2000, when his...

Get ready for an inspiring and down-to-earth episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Alban Debeaulieu, the talented winemaker behind Abbott Claim in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Join us as Alban shares his incredible journey from his roots in France to becoming a key figure in the Oregon wine scene.

In this episode, Alban opens up about his early influences in the Loire Valley, where his family’s passion for wine ignited his curiosity and love for viticulture. He reminisces about visiting wineries with his grandparents, who were small-time wine collectors, and how those expe...

Join us for an engaging and heartfelt episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Mark and Pattie from Bjornson Vineyard in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Known for their dedication to quality and community, Mark and Pattie share their journey from humble beginnings to establishing Bjornson Vineyard as a beloved fixture in the region.

In this episode, Mark and Pattie discuss the labor of love that is winemaking, highlighting the camaraderie and support within the winemaking community. They reflect on the challenges and rewards of running a vineyard, including the intricate balance of managing day-to-day op...

Join us for an inspiring and down-to-earth episode of the Weinnotes Podcast as we sit down with Travis Todd, the innovative winemaker behind de la boue. Renowned for his creative approach and unwavering dedication to quality, Travis shares his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to successfully establishing de la boue.

In this episode, Travis opens up about his early days growing up in North Carolina and how those formative experiences shaped his path. He reminisces about the influence of his upbringing, his adventures as a latchkey kid, and the tight-knit community that fostered his love for collaboration...

In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we sit down with Paul Johnson, the visionary winemaker behind Satyr Fire, nestled in Oregon's renowned Willamette Valley. Satyr Fire is more than just a name; it embodies the spirit of creativity and reverence for nature that Paul brings to his winemaking. But what exactly is a satyr? In ancient Greek mythology, a satyr is a creature that is half-man, half-goat, known for its love of music, dance, and revelry. This mythological essence perfectly encapsulates Paul's approach to crafting unique, expressive wines that dance on the palate and celebrate the terroir of...

In this enthralling episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, explore the exceptional journey of Seth Morgen Long, the pioneering spirit behind Morgen Long Winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Seth shares his personal and professional evolution that culminated in producing a 100-point Chardonnay, a testament to Oregon's rising prominence in the global wine scene.

Delve into Seth's philosophical and practical approaches to winemaking, where tradition meets innovation. From his early days absorbing the nuances of viticulture in Burgundy to his committed focus on Oregon Chardonnay, Seth's narrative is rich with insights into mastering the complexities of one of the...

Embark on an inspiring journey with Meg Rulli of Flipturn Cellars, as she shares her remarkable transformation from a corporate career to mastering the craft of winemaking in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, discover how Meg's passion for wine blossomed during a transformative world tour, leading her to pursue winemaking as more than just a passion but a calling.

Meg Rulli's story is not just about wine; it's about adventure, discovery, and personal evolution. Meg’s journey into the world of wine has been anything but ordinary. With a background in entrepreneurship an...

Join A.J. Weinzettel, host of the Weinnotes Podcast, as he sits down with Paul deLancellotti, the visionary behind the deLancellotti Family Vineyards in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this captivating episode, Paul shares his incredible journey from surfing the world with Quicksilver to planting roots in the wine industry. As you listen to their conversation, you'll be transported to the picturesque vineyards and immersed in the fascinating world of biodynamic farming, the importance of family and community.

Paul's story begins with his adventurous past as a Quicksilver surf ambassador, traveling the globe and living a life filled...

Embark on a vinous odyssey with Thomas Savre, the master winemaker behind Lingua Franca, nestled in the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley. This episode of the Weinnotes Podcast uncovers Thomas's fascinating journey from his formative years in the vineyards of Burgundy to the pioneering spirit of Oregon's wine country. Dive deep into the tales of his early inspirations, from working alongside legends in Burgundy to bringing European finesse to the vibrant terroirs of Oregon.

Thomas shares the behind-the-scenes magic of Lingua Franca's evolution, including the challenges and triumphs of establishing a new winery, the intricacies of crafting...

In this heartwarming episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we uncork the story of Susan and Daniel, the visionary couple behind Lonesome Rock, who turned their youthful dreams into a flourishing reality in the heart of Oregon's wine country. Decades ago, amidst the poetry and romance of French dramas, a seed was planted in their hearts—a dream of crafting wines that would one day tell their story.

Fast forward through years of adventure, learning, and life's inevitable ups and downs, Susan and Daniel have woven their experiences, from the vineyards of France to the trials and triumphs of...

In this bubbly episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, we're popping the cork with Kenny and Allison, the spirited visionaries behind Arabilis, as they share their sparkling adventure into the world of traditional method sparkling wines. With laughter as effervescent as their creations, this duo takes us behind the scenes of their winery, where dreams are bottled and every sip tells a story of passion, science, and a little bit of magic.

Stories such as hand-bottling with a small team and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to keep the energy up, to the evolution of their business plan...

Technical issues got me on the last post of this epsiode, apologies.

Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, where we uncork the stories of Renee and Grant, the dynamic duo behind Hundred Suns. Nestled in the comfort of their winery, this couple shares tales that are as rich and complex as their wines. From battling the elements to bring us their exquisite creations, to the whimsical adventures of winemaking with their children, this episode is a blend of laughter, love, and the labor that goes into every bottle.

As we swirl...

Join us for a heartwarming episode of the Weinnotes Podcast, where we uncork the stories of Renee and Grant, the dynamic duo behind Hundred Suns. Nestled in the comfort of their winery, this couple shares tales that are as rich and complex as their wines. From battling the elements to bring us their exquisite creations, to the whimsical adventures of winemaking with their children, this episode is a blend of laughter, love, and the labor that goes into every bottle.

As we swirl through their journey, you'll discover how an ice storm turned into an unexpected family...

Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the world of wine and cinema as we sit down with Jason Wise, the visionary director behind the renowned SOMM film series and the upcoming masterpiece, "Cup of Salvation." In this captivating episode, we delve into the mind of a director who's taken wine storytelling to new heights.

First, we explore Jason's cinematic inspirations, including the timeless Michael Mann and his iconic film, "Heat." Discover why Jason hadn't featured Michael Mann on the SOMM podcast and dive into prospects for SOMM 5.

But that's not all. We dig deep into...

Join us in this captivating episode of the Weinnotes podcast as we delve into the world of Kate Ayres, the dynamic winemaker at Penner-Ash Wine Cellars in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this deeply personal and insightful interview, Kate shares her journey across diverse wine regions, including vintages in California and abroad.

Kate reminisces about her first harvest at Bethel Heights, where she worked alongside industry veterans. This experience solidified her passion for the craft, blending scientific rigor with the artistic nuances of winemaking. Her stories reflect the joy of getting her hands dirty.

One of...

In this episode of Weinnotes, we uncork the fascinating tale of Ben Parsons, the visionary behind The Ordinary Fellow winery in Colorado. From his early days selling wine in London to embracing the unconventional path of urban winery in Denver, Ben's story is a toast to innovation and passion. Listen as he shares his insights on the transformation of the wine industry, his trailblazing adventure in canning wine, and the profound influence of his father on his winemaking journey.

Discover how Ben's approach to winemaking is shaped by experiences across continents, from picturesque Marlborough vineyards to the...

Embark on a journey to the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley, where the vines are more than just plants - they are the storytellers of the earth, the sun, and the seasons. In this episode of the Weinnotes podcast, I sit down with Tom Caruso, the visionary behind Pray Tell Wines. Our conversation is like uncorking a bottle of his finest - it unfolds with layers of passion, history, and a deep connection to the land.

Tom's story is a tapestry woven from threads of memory, tradition, and innovation. As the grandson of a wine enthusiast, his...

Embark on a sparkling journey with us in this special podcast episode, revisiting our July 21st, 2021 newsletter. We've been on a mission to unravel the mysteries of sparkling wines, exploring the enchanting world of bubbles that add effervescence to our lives.

Discover the captivating tale of how sparkling wine, often associated with celebrations, originated as a delightful accident. Join us as we delve into the fascinating history, from "The Devil's Wine" to the refined methods of sparkling production we cherish today.

As we deep-dive into the heart of Oregon's sparkling scene, we uncover the remarkable...

Buckle up for a captivating journey as we sit down with Mariel and Michael from Guerrilla Wine Company in Oregon's Willamette Valley. The adventure unfolds with a love story that began at third sight during the tumultuous days of COVID. Join us as we explore the reasons behind their daring leap of faith, and discover the surprising items that had reached their expiration date in Mariel’s fridge. Get ready for an unexpected twist.

Mariel, whose mom owned a bottle shop in Maine, shares her extraordinary odyssey to Oregon. Her mother's profound wisdom, "Wine is a journey," se...

Happy Thanksgiving! Join me on this special episode as I relive my unforgettable visit to Tendril Wine Cellars, released on this joyous day in 2023. Amidst the warmth of family gatherings, delicious food, and excellent wine, let's dive into the tale of my exploration.

In my July 17th, 2021 newsletter, I embarked on a quest for Oregon sparkling wines. Inspired by a couple from Florida, Alfreda and Michelle, who raved about their visit to Tendril, I couldn't resist reaching out to explore the winery's charm, especially with winemaker Tony Rynders crafting a sparkling wine.

Before we dive...

Join us for an extraordinary journey into the world of Oregon wine with the legendary winemaker, Joe Dobbes. In this captivating interview, we explore the rich tapestry of Joe's life and career, from planting marionberries at the age of 13 to becoming a prominent figure in Oregon's wine industry.

Key Moments:

- Discover the roots of Joe Dobbes' winemaking journey, from planting marionberries at a young age to selling to Smuckers, and the pivotal decision to transition from pursuing a medical career to venturing into the wine industry.

- Uncover the...

Join us on a journey to Prive Vineyard, a hidden gem in Oregon's Willamette Valley. In this podcast, we revisit a captivating newsletter from July 10th, 2021, as we explore the enchanting story of Prive and its transition under the ownership of Piper Underbrink.

The 4th of July celebration sets the stage for this adventure, much like the anticipation of lighting fireworks. A chance discovery through Rusty, the Prince of Pinot, leads us to the previous owners, Mark and Tina Hammond, who lived the dream life for any wine enthusiast.

With original vines...

Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Andy Joly, the creative force behind Capers Cafe, as we dive deep into the origins of this remarkable establishment and the fascinating role wine plays in its story.

In this unique interview, we take a blind tasting journey through five exceptional Oregon Chardonnays, unraveling their stories, flavors, and the mysteries hidden in each bottle.

We start with the intriguing history of Capers Cafe, discovering how it came into existence and when wine became an integral part of its identity. As Andy walks us through the...

Welcome back to our podcast as we embark on a revisit to Van Duzer Vineyards, set against the stunning backdrop of Oregon's Willamette Valley. Our journey takes us to July 3rd, 2021, a date etched in memory for more than one reason.

We start with a tale of the unexpected, a three-day heatwave that made a seasoned traveler feel like a piano plummeting from a five-story window. Join us as we recount this riveting experience and the simple joy of savoring wine on a back deck, watching dogs play.

But what about the enigmatic Van Duzer...

Join us for a captivating journey through the world of winemaking as we sit down with Bryan Berenguer, the extraordinary winemaker behind Human Cellars, nestled in the heart of Oregon's wine country. This interview takes you beyond the vineyards, into the mind of a passionate winemaker, and unveils the inspirations that shape his life's work.

Bryan's story is one of serendipity, nature, and healing. We begin with his connection to the Indie Wine Maker Event. It's a testament to the camaraderie that thrives in the world of indie winemaking.

Originating from the South, specifically North...

Last week, the tech world was buzzing with Apple's developers' conference, WWDC, and while innovation was at its peak, another tale of transformation was unfolding amidst the picturesque landscapes of Oregon's Willamette Valley.

It's a story of Dan and Jeanne, a duo whose lives were deeply entrenched in tech in the bustling city of San Francisco. They set forth on a journey that took them from sipping whiskey in the city to crafting sparkling wines in the tranquil vineyards of Oregon.

Jeanne, finally free from the tech world, embarked on this new adventure with an...

Join us for an engaging conversation with Alison Frichtl Hollister, the talented senior winemaker for Hall, Walt, and Baca Wines, located in the heart of California's Wine Country. In this episode, we explore Alison's remarkable journey, from her upbringing in Oregon's Willamette Valley to her thriving winemaking career in California.

Alison's upbringing in a creative household, where she was exposed to art and expression from an early age, shaped her unique perspective on winemaking. Her artistic eye for printmaking, painting, and sketching has undoubtedly influenced her approach to crafting exceptional wines. We'll delve into how this creative...

Welcome, wine lovers, to another enthralling episode of our podcast. Today, we delve into the world of Audeant Wines, an Oregon-based winery that embodies the spirit of artistry in winemaking.

Memories often carry profound significance. As our host reminisces about legendary radio broadcaster Paul Harvey and his mesmerizing storytelling, we're about to embark on a narrative journey that rivals the tales of old. However, this isn't a Paul Harvey imitation; it's a unique exploration of Audeant Wines, set amidst the picturesque landscapes of Oregon's Willamette Valley.

The stage is set on a scorching Oregon Memorial...

Join us for an enthralling journey through the world of wine as we sit down with the insightful and talented Aaron Lieberman, the driving force behind Oregon's acclaimed Iris Vineyards. In this illuminating episode, we explore Aaron's rich experiences, from viticulture to the Peace Corps, and how they've shaped his remarkable career in winemaking.

Episode Highlights:

The 2023 Vintage: Dive into the fast-paced world of winemaking in Oregon's Willamette Valley. Aaron shares the exhilarating rollercoaster of the 2023 vintage, from bud break to Harvest.

Roots and Influence: Discover how...

Prepare to embark on a unique wine journey as we explore the world of Lavinea, a winery that's been making waves in the Oregon wine scene. In this special episode, we'll dive into a tale of blind tastings, vineyard discoveries, and unforgettable wine experiences.

Join us as we recount the excitement and suspense of tasting through a six-year vertical of Lavinea Pinot Noirs, each sip a mystery waiting to be unraveled. Our host, A.J., shares his candid thoughts and changing guesses as he attempts to identify the vintages, revealing the surprising results that left him in...

Join us for an extraordinary episode as we sit down with Erich Berg, the 6'2" winemaker with a flair for fashion, in an interview that unveils the fascinating twists and turns of his life's journey.

Erich's captivating story begins with an unconventional blend of careers – from his time as a successful model to his current role as a distinguished winemaker in Oregon's Willamette Valley. We'll explore how his unique path, brought him to the world of wine and discover the unexpected parallels between these seemingly disparate worlds.

Delve into Erich's role as an...