In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Brady Weller and Billy Galanko are joined once again by Rajat "Raj" Parr, world-renowned sommelier, winemaker, author, and wine educator with over two decades of experience in the wine industry. With a reputation for having one of the most refined palates in the world, Raj has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named Best Sommelier in America by the James Beard Foundation and Wine & Spirits Magazine's Sommelier of the Year.

In this episode, we check in on Raj as he works to continue building a sustainable ecosystem around Phelan Farm, his most recent project and the focus of much of his time and attention in the vineyard (and winery), including working with Palomino, a rarely-cultivated grape in California. He has imported barrels from San Lucar de Barrameda to mature his Palomino and even grows flor! We also hear from Raj about his recent travels to Spain and tasting with producers in Jerez, Galicia, and Ribera Sacra.

As always, Raj is a wealth of knowledge and I n inspiration to folks across the industry who are deeply passionate about the craft of grape growing and winemaking.


Check out Rajat's other projects, including Sandhi Wines, Domaine de la Cote, and Evening Land Vineyards.

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email [email protected].

Cheers!