How many incredible grape varieties are hiding in plain sight — simply because they don't fit the modern wine script? We dig into that question in this episode with Jenny and Scott Schultz of Sonoma's Jolie-Laide Wines, a winery built around chasing the unfamiliar and turning "pretty ugly" grapes into seriously compelling wines.

We trace how Jenny and Scott's very different paths collided into a shared philosophy: start with great farming, intervene as little as possible, and let each site and vintage tell its own story. For vineyard owners and operators, the conversation opens up a practical discussion about risk, opportunity, and how alternative varieties can make both agronomic and economic sense.

We also get inside their cellar to talk about what "minimal intervention" really means — early picking for natural acidity, whole-cluster fermentations, neutral barrels and concrete, and a deliberate refusal to erase vintage character. Even the labels change every year, reinforcing the idea that wine is an agricultural product, not a factory formula.

The discussion dives into grapes like Melon de Bourgogne, Trousseau Gris, Scheurebe, and Mondeuse Noir, unpacking how they grow, how they're vinified, and why they deserve a bigger spotlight. It's a conversation about curiosity, craft, and what becomes possible when we stop playing it safe with varieties.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Why Jolie-Laide focuses on rare and overlooked grape varieties

• Working with growers to graft or plant unconventional grapes

• Minimal intervention winemaking and whole-cluster fermentations

• Farming considerations for low-alcohol, high-acid styles

• Blending, carbonic fermentation, and managing tannin and structure

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Resources:

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Today's Guest:

Jenny and Scott Schultz are the founders and winemakers for the acclaimed Jolie-Laide Winery in Sonoma, California.

Connect with Jenny and Scott:

https://jolielaidewines.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jolielaidewines

https://www.facebook.com/jolielaidewines/

Episode Sponsor:

Today's episode was brought to you by Vintner's Vault and Shellt Grow Tubes.

Thank you to Vintner's Vault for sponsoring today's episode! Vintner's Vault is the #1 winery equipment company that I recommend to my growers, who are also winemakers. Visit TheVintnerVault.com and use the code UNDERGROUND5 (all caps) to save 5% off of your online order, or mention that you heard about them on the Vineyard Underground podcast when contacting them for a larger piece of equipment, consulting services, or turn-key packages, and they will provide a podcast listener discount for you.

Thank you to Shellt Grow Tubes for sponsoring today's episode. Shellt makes the ultimate grow tubes for grape vines and orchard trees. Their grow tubes are reusable, recyclable, and designed to grow with your vineyard by clicking together for taller or wider coverage. I exclusively recommend Shellt Grow Tubes to the growers I work with. Visit https://www.shellt.us/ and order with the code UNDERGROUND to save 15% off all online orders, plus free shipping within the continental United States.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.