This episode features a live audience conversation at The Vine Club in Atlanta, GA with Sam Bilbro, the founder and winemaker for Idlewild WInes in California. Sam grew up hanging out in a winery converted from an old cow barn, walking vineyards, and tasting blends with his dad who founded Marietta Cellars. While ultimary continuing the family legacy, Sam definitely took some detours and explored other industries, but it was while he was working in the restaurant industry that he was exposed to wines from across the globe and was especially struck by the wines of Piedmont in italy. Founded in 2012, Sam’s creation, Idlewild Wines, focuses on making wines from Italian varities grown in Califonia by sourcing grapes from old vineyard sites across Sonoma and Mendocino. The wines we tasted during this live audience session were so thoughtful, and the wines offer nuanced deliciousness - which you’ll hear is a perfectly acceptaable tasting note. You can follow @idlewildwines on Instagram.

Recorded April 16, 2025

-------------

Our presenting sponsor for April is Vinexpo America 2025, a premier international trade event heading to Miami for the first time ever on May 7-8, 2025 at Miami Beach Convention Center. Vinexpo America has long been the go-to destination for industry leaders—and now, its expansion to Miami will offer new opportunities for producers, importers, distributors, and hospitality professionals across North, Central, and South America. From fine wine tastings and cutting-edge spirits to trend-driven panel discussions and unmatched networking opportunities, Vinexpo America is where the business of wine and spirits thrives.

⁠REGISTER HERE⁠ - Use code VAMERICA25 to claim your free badge!

With 280+ exhibitors from 25 countries and more than 3,000 visitors from 40 countries, Vinexpo America 2025 will be a vital industry event for anyone looking to expand their network and discover the latest trends.