Join us for an inspiring conversation with Forrest Kelly as we delve into the journey of building a woman-owned and family-driven winery, Oxlee Graham. The episode highlights the significance of honoring family legacies, as the winery is named after Forest's grandmothers, who imparted invaluable lessons of strength, honesty, and hard work. Forest shares her wealth of experience, having worked for over a decade at Paul Hobbs, where she honed her winemaking skills and gained insights into the business side of the industry. Transitioning from employee to entrepreneur, she discusses the creative freedom that propelled her to establish her own brand, focusing on unique varietals and adventurous winemaking. This episode not only celebrates female empowerment in the wine industry but also underscores the importance of community support and familial bonds in achieving one's dreams.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• The host emphasizes the importance of family support in running a woman-owned winery.
• Oxley Graham winery was named after the host's grandmothers, honoring their legacy and strength.
• After years of experience, the host transitioned from employee to entrepreneur in winemaking.
• The podcast highlights the creativity involved in winemaking and the freedom it offers.
• The host shares how personal experiences shaped the winery's identity and values.
• A focus on lesser-known varietals demonstrates the host's adventurous spirit in winemaking.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Paul Hobbs

Join Forrest Kelly and his guest co-host Doug Vincent as they dive into the fascinating world of winemaking with Jennie Murphy, the owner and winemaker of Oxlee Graham Wines. Jennie shares her unique journey from aspiring forensic scientist to passionate winemaker, highlighting how her chemistry background plays a crucial role in her craft. Throughout the conversation, they explore the delicate balance between science and art in winemaking, discussing the importance of understanding chemistry to create distinctive wines while maintaining a natural approach. Jennie emphasizes the challenges faced by larger wineries that strive for consistency in their products, contrasting it with her more intuitive methods. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with insights, humor, and a touch of adventure in the world of wine.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• The winemaking process offers numerous opportunities for chemists to influence the final product.
• Natural winemaking techniques prioritize minimal intervention, focusing on the health of the ingredients.
• The importance of chemistry in winemaking varies between small artisanal and large commercial producers.
• Forrest emphasizes the significance of knowing the numbers to make informed winemaking decisions.
• The podcast illustrates how passion for the outdoors can lead to a fulfilling career.

Links referenced in this episode:

• walkandrollive.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Oxlee Graham Wines
• Korbel Champagne
• Paul Hobbs wines

Damon Raque, founder of Bottle Bank, shares his journey of creating a unique wine-centric hospitality concept in Atlanta, where wine storage meets an inviting social atmosphere. The episode delves into the importance of adaptability in the wine business, echoing the sentiment that to thrive, one must listen to consumer needs and pivot accordingly. Rocky discusses his passion for wine, sparked by an unforgettable bottle that changed his perspective on what wine can be, and how this experience fueled his desire to connect wine lovers in a communal space. The conversation highlights the innovative design of Bottle Bank, aiming to foster a relaxed lounge environment rather than a traditional restaurant, encouraging guests to linger and engage with their shared passion for wine. Listeners will also gain insight into the operational challenges faced in establishing the concept, including securing a prime location and navigating the complexities of wine storage regulations.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• Damon Raque passion for wine led to the creation of a unique wine-centric hospitality concept.
• Bottle Bank offers a space for wine enthusiasts to store, enjoy, and share their collections.
• The experience at Bottle Bank contrasts with traditional wine bars by emphasizing relaxation and community.
• Damon's journey into the wine industry was sparked by a memorable bottle that changed his perspective.
• The importance of providing a controlled environment for wine storage cannot be overstated for enthusiasts.
• Bottle Bank aims to cater to a diverse clientele, from casual drinkers to serious collectors.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Bottle Bank
• Vint

Damon Raque from BottleBank.com shares the intricate journey of establishing a unique wine vault concept, revealing the numerous challenges faced along the way. From selecting the perfect location to navigating complex regulations, Damon highlights the unexpected hurdles that arise in the liquor industry, emphasizing the importance of structural integrity in their wine storage solution. The conversation dives deep into the meticulous planning required to comply with various zoning laws and liquor licenses, illustrating that each municipality presents its own set of obstacles. With a blend of humor and insight, Damon discusses innovative solutions like carbon fiber wraps to reinforce floors, showcasing the creative problem-solving essential in entrepreneurship. As he reflects on the journey, he invites listeners to envision a vibrant community experience at Bottle Bank, promising that every visit will leave customers with unforgettable memories.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• Damon Raque discusses the significant challenges faced in finding the right space for BottleBank.com.
• The process of negotiating with landlords and ensuring a good economic deal can be exhausting.
• Understanding different liquor licenses and zoning requirements is crucial for establishing a wine business.
• Structural integrity of the floor was unexpectedly critical, requiring involvement from engineers.
• The journey of starting a business involves navigating countless obstacles and adapting creatively.
• The excitement of creating experiences for customers is at the heart of BottleBank's mission.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• BottleBank.com

Links referenced in this episode:

• BottleBank.com

Join Forrest Kelly as he dives into the transformative power of wine in this engaging episode of the Best Five Minute Wine Podcast. The conversation unfolds around a pivotal moment in Damon Raque life, sparked by a remarkable bottle of 2006 Gemstone wine, which ignited a passion for the world of wine and its intricate flavors. Listeners will hear about a memorable evening filled with spontaneity, camaraderie, and the unexpected delight of discovering exquisite wines, leading to a deeper appreciation for the craft. The episode also touches on the exciting future of Bottle Bank, including exclusive member experiences and a focus on sophisticated wine events. With witty banter and insightful anecdotes, this episode encapsulates the joy of wine culture and the connections it fosters.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Damon Raque, co-founder of Bottle Bank, shares his vision for a unique wine experience in midtown Atlanta, emphasizing the establishment's blend of culture, community, and fine wines. Located in a vibrant area known for its artistic flair and walkability, Bottle Bank aims to create a space where wine enthusiasts can enjoy a curated selection of wines by the glass and bottle, alongside gourmet cheeses and charcuterie. Rich, Damon’s long-time friend and business partner, brings his entrepreneurial spirit and creative energy to the venture, enhancing its potential for success. The episode delves into the membership structure, featuring a $2,500 annual fee that includes access to exclusive lounges and private tasting experiences. With a focus on community engagement and enhancing the wine-drinking experience, Bottle Bank promises to be a destination for both casual sippers and serious connoisseurs alike.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Discover the art of wine storage and the unique experiences offered by BottleBank.com in this engaging podcast episode featuring co-founder Damon Raque. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining a controlled environment for wine, underscoring the ideal conditions of 55 degrees Fahrenheit and 70% humidity to preserve its integrity. Listeners are treated to a glimpse of the diverse clientele that Bottle Bank aims to serve, from casual enthusiasts seeking a vibrant space to serious collectors desiring a sophisticated environment for tastings and private dining. Damon shares enticing scenarios, such as crafting a personalized six-course meal paired with cherished wines for special occasions like milestone birthdays. With a focus on elevating the wine experience, the episode also touches on the importance of an appropriate dress code to enhance the ambience and overall enjoyment of the venue.

Damon Raque, founder and managing partner at Bottle Bank in Atlanta, shares his journey into the world of wine and the creation of a unique wine-centric hospitality concept. Recognizing a gap in the market for wine storage and community, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability in business, drawing parallels to the evolving demands of consumers. Rocke's passion for wine and the experiences it fosters inspired him to design a space where wine lovers can gather, relax, and enjoy their collections together, moving away from traditional transactional models. Instead of a typical restaurant or wine bar, Bottle Bank offers a lounge-like atmosphere that invites patrons to linger and socialize over their favorite bottles. Through engaging storytelling and insights, this episode highlights how Rocke turned his personal passion into a thriving business that caters to the desires of modern wine enthusiasts.

In this engaging episode of The Best 5 Minute Wine Podcast, Forrest Kelly sits down with Damon Raque, the founder and managing partner of Bottle Bank in Atlanta, Georgia. Damon shares his journey from being a passionate Wine collector to creating a unique Wine-centric hospitality concept. Discover how a lunch conversation with a sommelier friend sparked the idea for Bottle Bank, a place where Wine lovers can store, share, and enjoy their collections in a relaxed, lounge-style environment.

Damon explains the philosophy behind Bottle Bank, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in business and the need to provide experiences that cater to the desires of modern consumers. Unlike traditional Wine bars or restaurants focused on volume and transactions, Bottle Bank offers a living room-like setting where guests are encouraged to stay, relax, and connect over their shared love for Wine.

Please tune in to learn about the innovative approach that sets Bottle Bank apart and how it fosters a sense of community among Wine enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your Wine journey, this episode will inspire and delight you.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• Storing wine in a controlled environment ensures its longevity and maintains its integrity.
• BottleBank.com aims to create an inclusive space for all levels of wine enthusiasts.
• The experience of pairing wines with meals is enhanced by having a private chef.
• Dress codes are important at BottleBank.com to elevate the overall dining experience.
• A perfect wine journey involves opportunities for wine tastings and educational events.
• BottleBank.com provides a beautiful environment for wine collectors to share and enjoy their collections.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• BottleBank.com

Bottle Bank is revolutionizing wine storage by offering a modern, secure, and climate-controlled solution that goes beyond traditional cellars. Co-founder Damon Raque shares insights into how this innovative approach not only caters to wine collectors but also fosters a vibrant community around wine appreciation. The facility will feature private wine vaults, a lounge, tasting rooms, and various amenities designed to enhance the wine experience. Damon discusses his journey from a focus on utilitarian wine storage to a hospitality-driven concept, emphasizing the importance of creating an inviting atmosphere for members. With a commitment to inclusivity, Bottle Bank aims to appeal to a diverse audience, making wine enjoyment accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Damon Raque, co-founder of Bottle Bank, shares his vision for a unique wine experience in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. The podcast delves into the concept of Bottle Bank, which aims to provide an extensive selection of wines by the glass and bottle, paired with gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts. Raque describes the vibrant, walkable neighborhood that will host their establishment, highlighting its cultural significance and artistic flair. He also discusses the collaborative partnership with his long-time friend Rich, emphasizing how their complementary skills have shaped the business's development. With an annual membership model in place, Bottle Bank promises to offer an exclusive yet accessible environment for wine enthusiasts to enjoy curated experiences and private events.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• The discussion highlights the unique concept of Bottle Bank, a wine-oriented space in midtown Atlanta.
• Damon Raque emphasizes midtown Atlanta's vibrant, artistic nature as the ideal location.
• Membership will include access to a members-only lounge and various tasting experiences.
• Bottle Bank aims to enhance the wine-drinking experience with curated food pairings and events.
• The $2,500 annual membership includes exclusive amenities, making it a distinctive offering for wine enthusiasts.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Vint.Co
• BottleBank.com

Bottle Bank is a groundbreaking wine-centric hospitality concept that redefines how enthusiasts engage with wine. Founder Damon Raque shares his journey from wine collector to entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of adapting to consumer needs in a rapidly changing market. With a focus on creating community and connectivity, Bottle Bank offers a unique environment where patrons can not only store their wines but also enjoy them in a relaxed lounge setting, prioritizing experience over transactions. Damon elaborates on the inspiration behind Bottle Bank, highlighting the surprising demand for wine storage even among homeowners, and the realization that wine lovers crave more than just a place to keep their bottles. This episode delves into the innovative approach of fostering a social atmosphere around wine, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of wine culture.

Damon Raque, co-founder of Bottle Bank, introduces a revolutionary concept in wine storage that blends modern amenities with a community-focused hospitality experience. Traditional wine storage often lacks engagement and social interaction. Still, Bottle Bank transforms this by offering climate-controlled vaults alongside tasting rooms and lounges where wine enthusiasts can gather and enjoy their collections. Throughout the conversation, Damon shares his journey from initial ideas centered solely on wine storage to creating a vibrant wine community that prioritizes experience and connection. The facility will feature private wine vaults for members, allowing them to store and enjoy wines from anywhere. Listeners will discover how Bottle Bank is redefining wine storage and community, making it appealing to a diverse range of wine lovers.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Links referenced in this episode:

• bottlebank.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Vint.co

Takeaways:

• Damon Raque created Bottle Bank to combine his passion for wine with hospitality.
• The wine industry is evolving, requiring businesses to adapt quickly to consumer demands.
• Bottle Bank offers a unique environment for wine lovers to connect and share experiences.
• Unlike traditional restaurants, Bottle Bank focuses on creating a relaxing lounge atmosphere.
• Damon's journey into the wine storage business stemmed from his own collection challenges.
• The concept of Bottle Bank revolves around enjoying wine in a community-focused setting.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Bottle Bank

Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of the wine industry with Laura DePasquale, Senior Vice President of Artisanal Wines at Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits. Laura shares her unique journey from aspiring artist to a trailblazer in the wine business, emphasizing the significance of women in leadership roles and how they are reshaping the market. She discusses the challenges she faced as one of the few women executives in her early career and highlights the progress made in recent years. The conversation delves into the importance of storytelling in wine marketing, particularly for small boutique wineries, and how these narratives enhance the customer experience. Laura also reflects on the agricultural essence of wine production and its vital role in shaping sustainable practices within the industry.

Your Host: Forrest Kelly is an experienced Radio/TV broadcaster who has interviewed some of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities, from Garth Brooks to Kevin Costner. A lover of wine who is fascinated by the science behind it.

Voted One of The Best Travel, Top 5 Minute, and Top Wine Podcasts.

Takeaways:

• Laura DePasquale's journey from aspiring artist to master sommelier showcases the unexpected paths in careers.
• Women have made significant strides in the wine industry, paving the way for future generations.
• Storytelling is important in wine marketing as it enhances customer experiences and brand connection.
• Defining fine wine goes beyond price; it involves understanding production and availability nuances.
• Southern Glazer's commitment to sustainability and supporting artisanal wineries is commendable and impactful.
• Building mentorship programs for women in wine helps create a more inclusive industry environment.

Links referenced in this episode:

• southernglaziers.com/careers