Wine Fringe

We’re back—and kicking off Season 2 with a story rooted deep in American wine history!

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake dive into the work of Nicholas Nearhing, the horticulturist helping to bring Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello vineyards back to life. Where Jefferson’s centuries-old notes meet modern innovation, Nicholas is rebuilding a vision that helped shape America’s earliest wine aspirations. From honoring Jefferson’s meticulous records to navigating the unique challenges of restoring historic vines, he’s breathing new energy into the gardens of the “Father of American Wine.”

We launched the ne...

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake dive into the story of Chateau MerrillAnne with owner Kenny, where the land, the varietals, and the passion behind the winery come together to create something unforgettable. From pushing the envelope with unique wine styles to crafting intentional marketing that connects directly with their guests, Chateau MerrillAnne is redefining what a Virginia winery can be.

We wrapped our season with a celebration at Chateau MerrillAnne and loved spending time with Kenny and Emily—the friendly couple at the heart of the winery. They’re the kind of neighbors you...

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake sit down with Rae Wilson—one of the few female winemakers in Texas and the force behind Wine For the People. Rae’s path from sommelier to winemaker has taken her through Napa, Portugal, and cellars across the world before landing back in Austin, where she’s shaping what Texas wine can be.

She shares the story behind launching Dandy Rosé, why sustainable farming and minimal intervention are at the heart of her philosophy, and her candid takes on the Texas wine industry.

Curious about the winemak...

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake uncork the world of Bottle Shops—the hidden gems where wine buying transforms from overwhelming to inspiring. Forget staring at endless shelves in a grocery store. At a good bottle shop, you’ll find a curated experience, expert guidance, and maybe even your next favorite bottle.

We’re joined by Daniel Elliot of The Discerning Sommolier and the soon-to-open Vinícola wine bar, as he shares his latest ventures and explains how bottle shops create adventure for both budding enthusiasts and seasoned wine lovers alike.

Curious about t...

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jake and Jill sit down with Janine Aquino of Aquino Baron Consulting—a powerhouse winery consultant and vineyard/winery realtor.

Whether you're dreaming of owning a winery or already knee-deep in vines and barrels, this episode is packed with insight. They dive into what future winery owners need to know before buying, how to shape an intentional and profitable tasting room experience, and what today’s sellers wish they had known before entering the wine industry.

Want to learn more about Janine?

Website: aquinobaron.com

Link...

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake dive into the wild world of wine trends—from the eyebrow-raising to the industry-shaping. We’re talking jalapeño-infused wines, celebrity-backed bottles, and more.

What drives these trends? Are they just marketing gimmicks or do they reflect deeper shifts in how people connect with wine? Jill and Jake explore the fine line between innovation and absurdity, offering their fringe takes on quality, authenticity, and what makes a trend stick. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at a famous actor’s private label or been secretly curious about that spic...

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake sit down with Jennifer McCloud, proprietor of Chrysalis Vineyards and longtime champion of Norton, Virginia’s native grape.

From its deep historical roots to the challenges of modern-day vineyard management and winemaking, Jennifer walks us through the evolution of Norton—from overlooked oddity to bold, expressive wine with serious potential. We explore the grape’s unique flavor profile, its sustainability in the vineyard, and why it’s time to rethink everything you thought you knew about this distinctly American varietal. If you’ve ever wondered why Norton isn’t getting th...

Wine Fringe – Neoprohibition

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake unpack the rise of Neoprohibition—modern efforts to demonize alcohol through campaigns like Dry January and No Alcohol November. They explore wine’s 8,000-year history, the month-long abstinence movement, and whether moderate drinking deserves its bad rep. Plus, what do studies actually say about wine’s health benefits? We’ve got the links:

California vs. Virginia – Shai Van Gelder of Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake sit down with Shai Van Gelder, winemaker at Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery, for a real-deal conversation about what it’s like making wine on both coasts.

From breaking into the industry to navigating the day-to-day grind of production, Shai shares firsthand insight into the differences—and surprising similarities—between California and Virginia winemaking. It’s a deep dive into culture, expectations, and what it really takes to grow as a winemaker in two very different worlds.

Producer Spotlight – Nokesville Winery

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake shined a light on one of Virginia’s most exciting new producers: Nokesville Winery.

Back in March, Nokesville graciously hosted the Wine Fringe launch party—and while they were there, Jill and Jake sat down with Dustin Minor, owner and winemaker, for a candid conversation about his journey into winemaking, the leap into winery ownership, and what it took to build something meaningful in the Virginia Wine Industry.

The Virginia Wine Industry – Unfiltered

In this episode of Wine Fringe, Jill and Jake crack open the cellar door on Virginia wine. Why do some brand-name wineries thrive—and is playing it safe holding the industry back? They’re pulling no punches.

Get ready for a deep dive into branding vs. reality, a full-on challenge to the status quo, and real talk about what it’ll take for Virginia to lead instead of follow.

No spin. No fluff. Just the kind of conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.

Natural Wine vs. Conventional Wine

In this episode of Wine Fringe, we’re diving headfirst into the cloudy, controversial world of natural vs. conventional wine. What even is natural wine? Is it just a marketing buzzword—or are there real differences in vineyard and cellar practices that actually change what’s in your glass?

We’re keeping it uncorked and unfiltered, with hot takes, honest talk, and maybe a rant or two.

Vinifera vs. Natives vs. Hybrids

In this episode of Wine Fringe, we break down the key differences between Vinifera, Native, and Hybrid grapes. From European classics to the ironclad workhorses of the wine world, we’re bringing you the perspectives of a winemaker and a wine marketer—no fluff, no snobbery, just real talk with a side of sarcasm, wit, and the occasional rant.