In this episode of The Pour with Adam Montiel, we explore two fascinating wine stories centered on transparency and creativity. Adam Lee was best known as the founder of Siduri Wines, where he became one of California’s leading voices in Pinot Noir. Since then though, he’s continued to innovate, launching Clarice Wine Company and collaborating with the late Philippe Cambie on Beau Marchais, producing wines that have earned critical acclaim. Adam recently made headlines by openly comparing the sugar content of his Pinot Noir, DIal Tone, to that of a bestselling wine, MEIOMI, sparking a conversation about what’s really in the glass, and why Constellation is big mad over the number 32.

For more on this story, you can check out the article in the San Francisco Chronicle: Meiomi Pinot Noir Sugar Controversy (note: there may be a paywall). Alternatively, you can read the coverage from the Press Democrat:Local winemaker in hot water after challenging massive American wine brand.

Later in the episode, Meghan Ball introduces Harvest Speed Tastings, an event designed to add a high-energy twist to wine tasting in Paso Robles. Joining Meghan is Connor McMahon, owner and winemaker of Full Draw Vineyards, who shares his perspective on the event and the unique way it connects wine lovers with Paso's diverse offerings. For more information on Harvest Speed Tastings, visit the official Paso Wine link: Harvest Speed Tastings on Paso Wine.

Finally, don’t forget to check out the latest episode of Where Wine Takes You. This episode features experts from Cal Poly’s wine and viticulture program, diving into the innovative ways they are shaping the future of winemaking. Listen now by following this link: Where Wine Takes You - Cal Poly Episode.

For info on Tin City Distillery’s Private Barrel Club Click Here

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About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel. Today, we're honored to be joined by a true icon in the winemaking world, Randall Grahm. Known for his innovative and often unconventional approach to winemaking, Randall is the visionary behind Bonny Doon Vineyard and now his latest venture, The Language of Yes.

Randall Grahm's journey in the wine industry is nothing short of legendary. He started his career with the ambitious goal of producing "The Great American Pinot Noir" but found his true calling with Rhône varieties. His groundbreaking work with these grapes earned him the moniker "The Rhône Ranger," a title that has stuck with him ever since his 1989 Wine Spectator cover. Over the years, Randall has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Wine and Spirits Professional of the Year by the James Beard Foundation and induction into the Vintner's Hall of Fame.

Today, we are recording from the beautiful Edna Valley, the new home of Randall’s latest brand, The Language of Yes. This venture is a continuation of Randall’s quest to create wines that truly reflect their terroir. The Language of Yes is all about embracing the unique characteristics of the Central Coast, with small-batch experiments and a deep love of the land guiding its creation.

Be sure to visit The Language of Yes to learn more about these extraordinary wines and to make a reservation for a tasting at their Edna Valley location. 

Until next time, keep exploring, keep tasting, and as always, leave it all on the table.

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The Pour is going to France - and you can join us HERE!

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About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Pour is going to France - and you can join us HERE!



***********

John Munch, a true maverick of the wine world, left an indelible mark on the Paso Robles wine community with his fearless approach and innovative spirit. Arriving in Paso Robles in the late 1970s, John quickly became a pivotal figure in the region's burgeoning wine industry. His winery, Le Cuvier, stands as a testament to his dedication to allowing the grapes to express their natural character through minimal intervention and extended barrel aging. Even as he passed the winemaking reins to Clay Selkirk, John's influence and philosophy continue to shape the unique offerings of Le Cuvier.

In this special episode, we honor John Munch’s legacy by sharing a heartfelt interview where he reminisces about the early days and his close relationship with Neil Collins, winemaker of Tablas Creek and Lone Madrone. Neil’s tribute beautifully encapsulates the profound impact John had on those around him. This clip is from Episode 27 of my podcast "Where Wine Takes You." To listen to the entire episode, check it out here. We hope this episode provides a glimpse into the life and legacy of a true wine pioneer. For those who wish to explore the wines crafted under John’s guiding principles, visit Le Cuvier Winery and discover the unique and expressive wines that continue to honor his legacy. Thank you for joining us in celebrating the remarkable life of John Munch.

**********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Pour is going to France - and you can join us HERE!

***********

(John Couch Interview begins at the 13:00 min mark)



Today on "The Pour with Adam Montiel," we have the privilege of speaking with a true innovator and visionary whose career has spanned multiple industries, leaving an indelible mark on each. John Couch is perhaps best known for his trailblazing work in technology, where he held the distinguished title of Apple’s first Vice President of Education. During his tenure, John led initiatives that revolutionized the way technology is integrated into classrooms, fostering an era of digital learning that continues to shape the education landscape today.

But John's journey doesn't stop there. A man of diverse talents and interests, he has recently transitioned from the world of tech to the scenic beauty of San Luis Obispo, embracing the rich culture and community of California’s Central Coast. Here, John has embarked on a new venture that combines his passion for innovation with his love for viticulture, establishing Couch Family Wines. His dedication to excellence and his drive to create something truly unique is evident in every bottle, reflecting the same pioneering spirit that characterized his time at Apple.

Join us as we dive into John Couch’s remarkable journey from Silicon Valley to the vineyards of San Luis Obispo, exploring how his experiences have shaped his approach to winemaking and what he envisions for the future of Couch Family Wines. You can learn more about his winery at Couch Family Wines. This is an interview you won't want to miss.

**********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Pour is going to France - and you can join us HERE!

Juan Mercado is a distinguished vintner and founder of both Realm Cellars in Napa Valley and RIISE Wines in Paso Robles. After establishing Realm Cellars in 2002 and gaining acclaim for his powerful, high-end wines, Mercado shifted his focus to Paso Robles, where he founded RIISE in 2019. RIISE Wines specializes in Rhone varietals and Tempranillo-based wines that are celebrated for their balance, texture, and elegance. Mercado works closely with renowned winemaker Anthony Yount, ensuring that RIISE's offerings continue to impress with their sophisticated structure and flavor profiles.

Juan Mercado’s journey into the wine industry is as inspiring as it is impressive. Originally from a background in nursing and serving as a medic in the army, Mercado's pivot to winemaking was fueled by a deep passion for viticulture. He started his career in the wine world by working with notable figures like Pax Mahle and gaining hands-on experience in Napa Valley.

This August, Juan Mercado, along with Don Burns of Turtle Rock Vineyards and Kit Kuyper from Hawks Hill Ranch, will join wine enthusiasts on the Cork & Cruise adventure in France's Rhône Valley. This seven-night journey aboard the luxurious AMAKristina from AMAWaterways offers daily stops at historic vineyard towns, exquisite dinners, and intimate tastings of some of the world's finest wines. Hosted by Adam Montiel for Cork & Cruise, the trip promises a blend of education, exploration, and unforgettable wine experiences. For more information about the cruise, visit CorkandCruise.com or AdamMontiel.com​

For more on Riise Wines, go HERE

**********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy West. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table.

This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Show Credits:

Executive Producer: Adam Montiel

Associate Producer: Pablo Romero

Technical Consideration Provided By: Fly with Wine

** Save 20% and get FREE Shipping when you shop at Fly with Wine by using the Promo Code: ADAM20 **

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

In this episode of "The Pour," Adam has the pleasure of hosting a roundtable with some really fun and distinguished winemakers from Paso Robles. We are recording from a beautiful downtown loft in Paso thanks to Adam LaZarre of LaZarre Wines, and I want to extend a big thank you to Adam for welcoming us, including Giorgi. 

Guests:

1. Damien Grindley - Owner and winemaker of Brecon Estate. Damien has over twenty years of experience crafting award-winning wines in the US, Australia, and Europe. Brecon Estate is renowned for its Albariño, which recently won "Best in Show" at the Sunset International Wine Competition​ (Brecon Estate)​​ (Wine Industry Advisor)​.
2. Scott Schramm - Owner and winemaker of CRUSH Vineyard. Scott’s estate vineyards produce some of the finest wines, and his tasting room in Tin City is a testament to his commitment to quality.
3. Adam LaZarre - Owner and winemaker of LaZarre Wines. Adam is a seasoned winemaker whose passion for the craft is evident in every bottle he produces.
4. Nancy Ulloa - Owner and winemaker of Ulloa Cellars. Nancy's dedication to winemaking has brought Ulloa Cellars to the forefront of Paso Robles’ boutique wineries.
5. Sherry Holzer - Winemaker at Rava Wines. Sherry brings her expertise and unique perspective to Rava Wines, enhancing their reputation for exceptional wines.
6. Jason Bushong - Owner and winemaker of Bushong Wines. Located in downtown Paso Robles, Jason's wines reflect his creative approach and deep understanding of the region's terroir.

In this episode, we delve into the history and characteristics of two remarkable varietals: Tannat and Albariño.

Tannat:

• Originating from the Madiran region in France and gaining popularity in Uruguay, Tannat is known for its deep color, robust tannins, and aging potential. In Paso Robles, the varietal thrives in the region’s diverse microclimates, producing wines with intense flavors and great complexity​ (Paso Robles Wineries)​.

Albariño:

• Hailing from the Rias Baixas region of Spain, Albariño is celebrated for its crisp acidity, aromatic profile, and versatility. The cool coastal influences and calcareous soils of Paso Robles make it an ideal location for growing Albariño, which has gained significant acclaim on the Central Coast​ (Brecon Estate)​​ (Wine Country This Week)​.

We are also excited to promote the "Alternative Tastes Wine Fest," a two-day event celebrating Paso’s unique varieties, including Albariño and Tannat. This event will be held this weekend, June 7th and 8th, 2024, with the Grand Tasting Experience taking place at Broken Earth Winery. Presented by Brecon Estate and CRUSH Vineyard, the festival features around 30 local boutique winemakers.

Event Schedule:

• Friday, June 7th: 5:30-8:00 p.m. - VIP Dinner Experience at Brecon Estate.
• Saturday, June 8th:
• 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Seminars on Tannat and Albariño.
• 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. - VIP Early Access.
• 1:30 - 4:00 p.m. - General Admission/Grand Tasting/Charity Auction.

For more information and tickets, visit Alternative Tastes Wine Fest.

**********

About ‘The Pour with Adam Montiel’:

This debut episode has been 14+ years in the making. In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon Adam’s interview’s covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning show, is reborn as The Pour with Adam Montiel, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Daou Vineyards

Tin City Distillery

Technical Consideration: Fly with Wine

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

For tickets to see Moonshiner Collective Live at Rod & Hammer Rock (formally SLO Brew Rock), check out this link HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Madeline Puckette, co-founder of Wine Folly, established the website in October 2011, serves as an edutainment platform, offering a variety of resources such as articles, videos, courses, and infographics, maps, to demystify the world of wine for enthusiasts of all levels. Madeline, along with her cofounder, authored two acclaimed books stemming from the website: "Wine Folly Paperback" and "Wine Folly: Magnum Edition," the latter earning the prestigious James Beard award. Recognized by The Washington Post as a pivotal resource in wine education, Puckette's expertise extends beyond the digital realm as she embarked on book tours and collaborated with wine regions such as Paso Robles. With a commitment to making wine accessible and enjoyable, Puckette's contributions through Wine Folly have left an indelible mark on the world of wine appreciation, and more importantly, understanding.

Check out Wine Folly HERE

Follow them on Instagram HERE

Follow Madeline on Instagram HERE

**********

About ‘The Pour’:

This debut episode has been 14+ years in the making. In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon the show covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning The Cork Dorks show, is reborn, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Daou Vineyards

Tin City Distillery

Technical Consideration: Fly with Wine

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

For tickets to see Moonshiner Collective Live at Rod & Hammer Rock (formally SLO Brew Rock), check out this link HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

In our debut episode we chat all about the World of Pinot Noir. You can taste over 200 wineries over the course of Friday and Saturday March 1-2 at the Ritz Carlton Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara. 

Today’s guests on The Pour: 

• Owner/winemaker of SLO’s El Lugar Wines, Coby Parker-Garcia
• Winemaker/Vineyard Manager Talley Vineyards, Arroyo Grande, Eric Johnson
• Owner of Solterra Strategies and whose team serves as Executive Director to World of Pinot Noir, Stacie Jacob

Socials:

Follow World of Pinot Noir HERE

Follow El Lugar Wines HERE

Follow Talley Vineyards HERE

Follow Solterra Strategies HERE

World of Pinot Noir is coming quickly and you have a chance to win tickets! WOPN is 2/29-3/2 at the Ritz Carlton Bacara Resort in Santa Barbara. Taste world class pinots from over 100 wineries. There are also brunches, panels, incredible dinners, and more. 

Check out all the info, purchase tickets, and more for World of Pinot Noir HERE 

WIN Tickets from ‘The Pour’ to World of Pinot Noir HERE

**********

About ‘The Pour’:

This debut episode has been 14+ years in the making. In 2010, Radio Host Adam Montiel combined his longtime love for broadcasting with his, then, new love for wine. He created and produced, ‘The Cork Dorks’. The show was hosted with Adam and his good friend Jeremy. It was the first of its kind. It began focusing on central coast wineries but as the show grew, so did their ability to travel and meet other winemakers they found everywhere from Napa to Bordeaux that adopted that same Central Coast quality of people willing to share their wines, and their stories. 

As the area grew, soon the show covered everything from spirits, craft beer, cider, cuisine, hospitality, and more. Fast forward to today, the spirit and enthusiasm cultivated with the award winning The Cork Dorks show, is reborn, this time independently, and unfettered by corporate authority leaving it even more free to share the journey of making wine more approachable and fun for everyone.  

Here, We Taste It. We Spill It. We Leave it All On the Table. This is ‘The Pour’ with Adam Montiel.

__________

Sincere Thanks to those who support The Pour. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

World of Pinot Noir

Daou Vineyards

Tin City Distillery

Technical Consideration: Fly with Wine

Original Music, ‘Come Alive’ by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective & Still Time

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

For tickets to see Moonshiner Collective Live at Rod & Hammer Rock (formally SLO Brew Rock), check out this link HERE

Follow Adam on Instagram HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com