This season premiere episode features Jaclyn Fiola, a PhD student and soil scientist in Virginia Tech's School of Plant & Environmental Sciences. She collaborates with vineyards all over the state researching how soil impacts grapevines, fruit, and wine. We chat about the Virginia wine industry, how she got started in this field of study, and how she collaborates with winemakers to support the state's vineyards. The ways in which soil ultimately impacts the wine in our glasses is complicated, but Jaclyn breaks down some helpful insights that shine light on the constant exploration that continues to inspire her research and her fascination with terroir. You can follow her adventures @jaclynsoilsomm on Instagram, and you can learn more about her soil science specialty by checking out www.soilsomm.com.

Recorded February 28, 2021