What's Cookin' on Wine with Michael Horn and Nicole Nielsen

On Tonight’s Show, join us as we explore two California wine icons! Frank Ostini, co-owner and winemaker of Hitching Post Wines and chef/owner of the renowned Hitching Post 2 Restaurant, shares the story behind his Santa Barbara County Pinot Noirs and the secrets of pairing them with his legendary Santa Maria Style BBQ. Then, Tony Quealy, general manager of Thacher Winery & Vineyard in Paso Robles, dives into holiday wine favorites, from unique bubbles to red wine pairings for your festive dinners. Discover tips for celebrating the season with exceptional wines and unforgettable experiences in California wine country.

On Tonight's Show: Winemaker Derek Einberger of Dobbes Family Estate and Wine By Joe joins us to talk Oregon wine, his artistic path to the cellar, and a fresh harvest update. Plus, legendary grape grower Charlie Chenoweth from Chenoweth Wines stops by with insight from the vineyards that fuel some of Sonoma’s finest wines.

On tonight's episode: Kimberly Utterback, Brand Manager at Quintessential Wines, shares the story of Georges Duboeuf and the worldwide celebration of Beaujolais Nouveau Day this November. From its fresh, fruity style to why it pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving, Kimberly explains why this French tradition continues to captivate wine lovers. Then, Christopher Hyde, General Manager at Hyde Vineyards and Director of Viticulture at Hyde de Villaine, takes us through the 2025 harvest recap. Hear about the season’s standout moments, the quality of the grapes, and what makes Hyde Vineyards a Napa Valley treasure. 

On Tonight's Show: Winemaker Derek Einberger of Dobbes Family Estate and Wine By Joe joins us to talk Oregon wine, his artistic path to the cellar, and a fresh harvest update. Plus, legendary grape grower Charlie Chenoweth from Chenoweth Wines stops by with insight from the vineyards that fuel some of Sonoma’s finest wines.

Join us as we explore the world of small-production California wines with Doug Minnick of Hoi Polloi Winery and the upcoming Garagiste Festival, and Dave McGee of Monochrome Wines, specializing in exclusively white wines. From micro-lot winemaking to creative blends, discover how these winemakers craft unique, high-quality wines and get a sneak peek at what to expect at one of the state’s most exciting wine events.

GUEST LINE-UP: 

• Wes Hagen - Sales Support And Wine Educator, Native9 And Ranchos De Ontiveros Wines 
•  Devin Parr - Brand Marketing, Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association

GUEST LINE-UP: 

• Kathleen Naughton - Executive Director, SLO Coast Wine Collective's Harvest On The Coast (Nov. 6-9)
• Greg Freeman - Winemaker, Chalone Vineyard 

GUEST LINE-UP: 

• Ken Freeman - Proprietor, Freeman Vineyard & Winery 
• Maggie Tillman - Owner/Sales & Marketing, Alta Colina Vineyard & Winery

GUEST LINE-UP: 

• Mike Haney- General Manager, CIRQ & CHEV Wines  
• Stephen Janes - Estate Director, Gainey Estate Vineyards - The 41st Annual ​Santa Barbara Vintners Festival

• Jay Buoncristiani - Co-Founder & Director Of Winemaking, Buoncristiani Family Winery & JTB Wine
• Gary Franscioni - Proprietor, Roar Wines